《Athena in Tower Defense Game! [LitRPG]》


 0001 – Athena Found Herself In Tower Defense Game

    0001 ¨C Athena Found Herself In Tower Defense GameIn a dim and damp room, the thatched roof had been partially swept away by the wind, and raindrops dripped through the gaps onto the earthen floor.


    The dilapidated thatched house was utterly unable to withstand the cold wind, sending shivers down Athena ''s spine even though she was wearing winter pajamas.


    The hard wooden bed, devoid of any mattress, made her restless in her slumber.


    As she reached out to grab nonexistent blankets, her hand found emptiness instead. She jolted awake, staring at the bare walls of the thatched hut.


    Water had begun to pool in some places on the floor, and rainwater continued to trickle down from above. Outside, it was pouring rain, while inside, a lesser drizzle persisted.


    She pinched herself hard.


    "Hiss."


    She involuntarily drew in a breath of cold air.


    It hurt, it hurt too much. But what scared her more than the pain was the realization that she wasn''t dreaming.


    This was her reality; she had been kidnapped!


    She didn''t know which criminal gang had abducted her and brought her to this desolate place.


    She didn''t know if she was to be maimed and forced to beg or sold off to someone else.


    Thinking about her somewhat attractive face, she felt her heart race with fear.


    But what kind of gang could brazenly break into a home and take someone away?


    She couldn''t dwell on that thought.


    She got out of bed directly, her bare feet landing on the yellow earth.


    The space inside the thatched hut was extremely cramped, and it was impossible for someone to hide inside without her noticing, so the kidnappers were likely outside.


    She tiptoed to the door and quietly pushed it open a crack to peer outside, but she saw no kidnappers, only a deep darkness where nothing was visible. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the instant she opened the door slightly, a huge figure came rushing toward her. Its eyes glowed brightly in the darkness, emitting a beastly roar.


    Athena was so frightened that she quickly shut the door.


    She had thought the door would be broken down, but to her surprise, the monster only lingered outside, emitting loud snorts as it circled around.


    Congratulations, you have successfully triggered the shelter defense function!


    Learn More <


    Athena felt a wave of relief as she hesitated, looking at the floating system panel in front of her.


    There was a blood-red start button on it. Thinking about the monster lurking outside, she finally decided to press it.


    The words on the system panel changed into an instruction manual.


    This is a real tower defense game.


    Players need to rely on their efforts to build various defense facilities to defend against monster attacks at regular intervals.


    When darkness falls, the number of monsters outside doubles! Light can repel monsters within a certain range! The shelter can resist monsters of different levels depending on its level.


    Daytime will become a safe zone. Players are encouraged to explore on their own (Countdown: 7 days)


    (!) Please note, daytime is not absolutely safe!


    Wish you a pleasant gaming experience!


    Athena returned to the edge of the bed, sitting there blankly, lost in thought.


    She hadn''t been kidnapped; she had crossed over.


    But the system kept ringing incessantly, prompting her to open the system panel again. A new panel appeared, displaying various functions commonly seen in gaming.


    Attribute PanelFriendsStoreMailboxRegional Chat Channel (!)Events


    The one constantly flashing with a red dot and emitting a notification sound was the Regional Chat Channel.


    She clicked on it.


    A long string of messages scrolled rapidly before her eyes.


    --Help! I just stepped out of the house and was chased by a bear. I''m hiding behind a tree now, it''s about to find me!


    --You''re done for, buddy.


    --Does the system mean we''ll be attacked if we go out at night, but it''s safe to explore during the day?


    --Good point.


    --Good point.


    --If we die here, will we really die?


    --Good question. Stop asking, why don''t you try it yourself next time?


    --I noticed there''s a number displayed in the upper left corner, we have 10,000 people in our area! And it seems there are other areas too. How many people are there in total?!


    When Athena saw this message, she looked at the upper left corner of the chat panel, where indeed a remaining number was displayed, but it wasn''t 10,000 anymore, it was over 9,800.


    Over hundred people had died in just a short ten minutes.


    Calming herself, she scrolled through the chat messages again.


    She successfully found a nearby function and turned off the notification sound.


    Then she clicked on the chat channel of another area, and a pop-up appeared.


    Other regional chat channels are not open.


    How many regions are there in total? How many people have entered the game, no one knows.


    Returning to the interface, continuing to browse through the chat messages. Soon, another useful piece of information caught her eye.


    "Don''t waste chat opportunities, you can only send twelve messages a day..."


    She wasn''t planning to send any messages now, intending to wait until tomorrow to explore before sending any.


    After browsing for a while and confirming that there was no useful information, she left the chat channel and opened her own profile panel.


    Attribute PanelNameAthena RavencroftRaceHumanGenderFemaleStrength1Speed1.6Agility1.8Mental2


    Similar to the chat interface, but her mental power and agility are obviously higher than average. And she has a big gift package in her mailbox, which others don''t have, maybe they concealed it.


    She clicked on it, but there was nothing inside. But a string of purple text appeared on her system panel.


    Danger and benefits go hand in hand, the rain and monsters have left.


    Now go out and pick up the package 50 meters in front of the thatched cottage to get survival supplies!


    Survival probability80%


    Athena looked at the inexplicably appearing purple text, but did not choose to decide rashly, after all, it''s still night.


    She remembered what the system said before, that light can to some extent ward off monsters.


    She picked up the candle next to her for illumination. 50 meters, with a speed of 1.6, it''s worth a try, after all, in this ghostly place, people who choose comfort cannot survive until the end.


    No one knows if that package will disappear, without food, water, or even heating equipment.


    If she doesn''t strive for it, the consequences can be imagined.


    She opened the dilapidated wooden door again, holding the candle in her hand. The darkness, which was originally invisible, seemed to have a life of its own, slowly retreating in the candlelight. Athena frowned, this darkness actually seemed alive, fortunately she didn''t rush out.


    She estimated and slowly walked forward, ready to rush back inside at any time. The surroundings were all muddy because it had been raining all the time, and walking on the soil gave a sticky feeling. She was sleeping when she came over, so she couldn''t possibly be wearing shoes. She could only walk barefoot, which made her feel even more uncomfortable.


    Next to it were some weeds, all very common on Earth. It gave her an idea, but the main task now was to get the package. Until she saw a white package lying on the soil in front of her.


    Grabbing the package, she quickly rushed back.


    Back at the thatched cottage, she closed the door and leaned against it, calming her heartbeat.


    "Hahaha." In the midst of her rapid heartbeat, she couldn''t help but laugh.


    Congratulations! You are one of the first one hundred to obtain the package, an extra bottle of water, please sign for it in the mailbox.Package levels are white, green, silver, gold.White package: contains a bottle of mineral water and two compressed biscuits.


    Opening the package, it was as the purple text said, containing a bottle of water and two compressed biscuits. The biscuits were military-grade, should last for a day or two. She was lucky to get food.


    At least now she didn''t have to worry about starving to death.


    The first one hundred? This means that fewer than a hundred people have opened the package now, and even if they did, it might not be food.


    Thinking about the number of deaths, some people may have gone out before this and never came back alive.


    Having the package but no use for it. Clicking on the system mailbox, there was a bottle of mineral water, which appeared in her hand after receiving it.


    She could now confirm that the purple text is special for giving her crucial information, maybe it was only for her? Who knows.


    It would be her greatest reliance for survival in this world.


    She was very concerned about the countdown, which was likely a newbie protection period of seven days.


    After seven days, it was very likely that even the daytime would no longer be safe.


    Even so, the current daytime was not absolutely safe.


    A green package will refresh 360 meters to the right, pick it up!Survival probability50%


    Athena looked at the refreshed text but chose not to go out. She wanted to collect supplies as soon as possible, but life was more valuable.


    If it were a golden package, then she might reconsider.


    Putting the candle back on the wooden table, she lay back on the hard bed, now was not the time to be picky.


    She rested as much as possible, saving enough energy for tomorrow''s exploration during the daytime.


    She curled up in bed, resting her head on her hand.


    The tension in her mind, now finally relaxed. Perhaps she was too tired; she fell asleep faster than she had imagined.


    The chat interface, however, didn''t stop all night, many people couldn''t sleep. They could only keep browsing through the chat messages, soothing their unstable emotions.


    Anyway, the night passed, and as the sun gradually rose, all the darkness faded away.


    Athena successfully woke up, raising her hand to look at the watch on her wrist, it was now 5:40 in the morning.


    But outside it already looked like noon.


    A bit of time left until daytime, players please prepare!20 minutes later, daytime arrives, a white package will refresh 800 meters to the southeast.


    It seemed that yesterday''s green package had disappeared, but she didn''t regret it. To ensure her safety, yesterday Athena chose not to blow out the candle but let it burn until dawn. This candle was different from the normal ones on Earth; after a whole night, it only burned about 1/7 of its volume.


    This was reminded by the purple text yesterday.


    Bright Candle: can burn for 7 days


    There''s only a newbie protection period of 7 days in total, and the candle can only burn for 7 days as well. But this was also a welfare, because as long as it was used sparingly, its burning life span was definitely more than 7 days.


    The mud on her feet had dried up, she reached down and scraped off a chunk of dried mud.


    With 20 minutes left, standing on the bed, she cheerfully performed warm-up exercises.


    Daytime has come, please start exploring the world!

 0002 – Athena Found A Package

    0002 ¨C Athena Found A PackageAthena walked out the door to find a bright sunny day outside, devoid of the slightest hint of darkness that had lingered the night before. Compared to the darkness of the night, she could see much more during the day. Due to the rain last night, the ground still bore the signs of dampness.


    What concerned her even more were the large footprints around the thatched hut, one after another. The footprints were especially dense at the doorstep, indicating that the monster had lingered there for quite some time last night. Athena''s gaze sharpened. Since such absurd things had already happened, would it be too much for her, a weak woman, to kill a monster?


    Following the prompt in purple font, she headed southeast. Along the way, she casually plucked many grasses. Walking barefoot was troublesome; she had to constantly watch out for sharp stones underfoot.


    She found a small package similar to the one from yesterday, yet it was capable of containing so much, thanks to some sort of magic.


    Inside the white package, there was an axe and a sickle.


    A sickle? Athena had originally planned to open it later when she returned, as she still needed to explore her surroundings. It would be inconvenient to carry many things, and a small package with just two palms'' worth would be easier.


    Upon seeing the sickle, she changed her mind. She opened the system panel, folding the page of attribute panel.


    Current Shelter1This is just a dilapidated thatched hut; please upgrade as soon as possible.


    She clicked to upgrade, and as expected, the items needed for the upgrade appeared.


    Upgrade Requirements : 50 wooden blocks, 50 special weeds


    Athena had noticed these special weeds as soon as she came out. They were different from the ones she usually saw, but they were very similar to the thatched grass on the hut.


    She had originally intended to collect them to repair the hut. However, the system was more convenient; as long as she collected enough specific materials, it would probably automatically upgrade, which was much easier than doing it herself.


    She opened the package. Since there was no intention to continue exploring far away, as it seemed pointless since this was a forest, and apparently a deep one, she couldn''t expect to get out in a short time.


    It was better to quickly use the 7-day protection period for newcomers to upgrade her shelter. After all, this was a tower defense game; who knew when the system would release monsters? It was better to preserve her life first, and there would be plenty of time for exploration later.


    Using the sickle she had obtained, she began to harvest the weeds on the ground frantically. She also found some vines and tied them into bundles.


    "Hiss." Athena gritted her teeth as she lifted her foot and realized she had accidentally stepped on a stone. She needed to make herself a pair of grass shoes as soon as possible.


    It was fortunate that she had helped with farm work at her grandmother''s house when she was young; otherwise, she wouldn''t even know how to use a sickle.


    Another hour passed, and she looked at the six bundles of weeds piled up on the ground, deeply sighing. She was too tired. However, the collection progress was only at one-third.


    Wood blocks0/50Special weeds18/50


    She gritted her teeth fiercely and continued. She knew that once she stopped, she would find all sorts of excuses for herself and wouldn''t be able to muster the motivation again.


    She tied her hair up with the only rubber band she had and rolled up the fluffy sleeves and pant legs, disregarding her appearance. Carefully avoiding the puddles on the ground, she harvested the weeds at her fastest speed.


    Wood blocks0/50Special weeds51/50


    When she finally heard the notification sound she had been longing for, Athena almost collapsed on the ground. However, considering she only had one set of clothes, she forced herself to walk to the grass and sat down.


    Her wrists and palms were red and hot, tingling slightly, and a blister had formed. Her arms and shoulders were sore, and her bangs, kept for appearance''s sake, were soaked in sweat, sticking to her face.


    She sat on the ground, panting heavily. This was the first time she had a chance to open the system panel and click on the regional chat channel.


    The chat interface was still bustling.


    --Have you all gone out? Wasn''t it said that it''s not absolutely safe during the day? I dare not go out. Can you guys share some supplies with me?


    --So did I! So did I!


    --The shelter can be upgraded. Do you guys know how to collect materials?


    --This place sucks. I can''t stand it for even a day. Can someone save me? I''m going crazy.


    --Does anyone have medicine? I''ll give them 100,000 if they go back! Private message me. My hand got scratched by something, and it keeps oozing black liquid!


    --Bro, you''re dreaming. Where do you expect to find medicine? And even if there is any, who cares about your money?


    --Hey, times have changed.


    S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena raised her sore hand and brushed through the chat channel. Seeing the person seeking medicine, she silently sympathized with them. Just as she was about to exit, she clicked back in and applied to add this person as a friend.


    Originally, she was just trying it out, but she didn''t expect the person to agree immediately. Before she could speak, the other party immediately sent a message.


    -- You added me because you have medicine, right? We can trade in the exchange. Trust me, when we return to reality, I''ll definitely give you 100,000 dollars!


    Just as Athena was hesitating whether to reply to his message, the purple font seemed to know what she wanted to do and gave a prompt.


    Players cannot locate each other''s positions and cannot reach each other''s locations.


    Athena smiled.


    --> Tell me first, what scratched your hand? I''ll see if I have something you need.


    -- It''s a very beautiful purple flower with serrated leaves. Just as I was about to pick it, its leaves moved on their own and cut a big wound on my hand!


    This guy was quite honest, quickly revealing all the information.


    --I don''t have any medicine, but if I have any spare in the future, I''ll contact you first.--Block, block, I''m blocking you! Why add me if you don''t have medicine?System has automatically blocked you to this person.


    The other party still hadn''t realized that he had given away information. Actually, with his message, there might be people willing to trade something with him, but definitely not medicine.


    Setting her status as "Do Not Disturb", only then did Athena exit the chat interface and clicked on the trading function.


    It seemed that in the future, she would have to pay attention to these purple serrated flowers mentioned by that person when going out. Was the blood flowing from the wound black? Shaking her head, she felt that this person probably wouldn''t live long.


    Compared to yesterday when she clicked on the trading function and found nothing, there were many changes today. The seller''s section was filled with numerous items. Each player''s avatar was accompanied by the items they were selling, and their avatars could be customized in various ways.


    The goods were all sorts of strange things, from broken branches to picked-up stones. Some even sold their own selfies and other weird items.


    After browsing through, she found nothing of value. But that was normal; in the early stages of difficulty, who would offer good supplies?


    As she scrolled through, she suddenly discovered someone selling water.


    [ Water 100ml ]PriceWhatever you think is appropriate.DescriptionCan''t buy anything misleading or useless. Bring your own container. Don''t worry, I was born near a river, it''s just 100 milliliters, no big deal!


    She noticed that more than ten transactions had already been completed. Athena was very surprised; it seemed that there were still quite a few people living well, as their resources had become abundant enough to trade with others.


    If there was a river nearby, would she also not have to worry about water?


    There is no water source within a radius of ten kilometers.


    It''s never that simple. It seemed that everyone''s birthplaces were different.


    But yesterday, after spending the whole day browsing through the chat channels, she found that everyone''s initial skin was a broken thatched hut. This was the only thing that comforted her.


    I need to keep pushing forward.


    After a brief rest, Athena flexed her arms and clenched her fists, pounding them heavily a few times. Using a thicker vine, she bound all the weeds into a large bundle and dragged it back in the direction of home. Of course, she didn''t forget about her newly acquired sickle and axe.


    After exerting tremendous effort, she finally managed to drag all the special grasses back. She hesitated for a moment before reluctantly untying the grasses because of the small wooden door. She could only carry them back one by one.


    Since they were already undone, she decided to lay a thick layer on the bed. She lay down and tried it; it was much warmer than before. By the time she finished, it was nearly 3 o''clock.


    She was severely dehydrated. She opened a bottle of mineral water but didn''t drink much. She ate a packet of compressed biscuits with the water and then didn''t move.


    The taste of the compressed biscuits wasn''t good, but she wolfed them down nonetheless. She even felt like having some more but restrained herself. Just think of it as dieting.


    She kept brainwashing herself, and eventually, she found that she wasn''t as hungry as before. After reluctantly feeling full and hydrated, she began to contemplate.


    If they continued at this pace, was the 7-day preparation time too much? Why did the system give them so much preparation time?


    The more Athena thought about it, the more something felt off. If that was the case, what awaited them after 7 days, and how many people would survive?


    She lay on the bed, planning tomorrow''s actions. She would wake up early again, then use the axe to chop trees and get wooden blocks, aiming to upgrade the shelter to level one as soon as possible.


    As for today, she didn''t plan to do anything else; she was already exhausted. She had persisted through it all with sheer willpower, and as someone who didn''t usually exercise much, suddenly engaging in a lot of physical activity could result in injuries. So, she wouldn''t chop trees today. Instead, she planned to go around the area at 5 o''clock to see if any new packages had spawned.


    First, a nap.


    She lay on the bed for a while and woke up after it was already past 4 o''clock. She had hastily woven herself a pair of grass shoes with some vines and weeds. They looked ugly up close and even uglier from afar, but she didn''t have much choice. She put her feet in and took a couple of steps. She sat back on the bed, picked up the grass shoes, and angrily tossed them into a corner.


    Abandoning the idea of weaving grass shoes, she picked up the sickle and left the house. She wasn''t going to cut grass; she just carried the sickle for self-defense. The axe was a bit too heavy, and she wasn''t very good at wielding it.


    Refreshed a white package 800 meters southeast.


    Wasn''t that the place where she had just cut grass? Could one place be refreshed twice?


    Without dwelling too much on it, she headed over there. But to her surprise, about a hundred meters away, there was a huge creature that looked like a bear, except it had a long tail and a sharp horn on its head.


    [ Long-tailed bear ]Level5Strength11Defense10SkillRock CrushEnjoys teasing prey, can survive during both day and night, extremely averse to fire! Extremely low fire resistance!


    This behemoth was sitting on the grass where Athena had just finished cutting, playing with a white package in its hand.


    Athena swallowed nervously; she recognized this as the monster that had been lurking outside her door yesterday. She hadn''t expected it to still be around.


    Wasn''t it said that daytime was a safe zone? Even if it wasn''t absolutely safe, was it this dangerous?!


    Now all she could do was pray that the monster hadn''t noticed her.


    Unfortunately, sometimes luck just wasn''t on one''s side.


    The long-tailed bear turned its head, staring directly in her direction. It stood up, revealing a menacing grin, showing off its sharp teeth.

 0003 – Athena Found Bear Meat

    0003 ¨C Athena Found Bear MeatAthena Ravencroft could clearly feel that her whole body was burning up, but her mood was as cold as an ice cellar.


    It was mimicking her!


    Her heart was pounding like a drum, biting her lip to keep from screaming. It felt like there was a boulder crushing her chest, making it hard to breathe.


    However, the bear wasn''t always facing her direction, just repeatedly standing up, learning to smile. Eventually, it even learned to wave.


    Looking from afar, it resembled a person in the darkness.


    It wasn''t until the bear got bored, casually dropping the package on the ground and walking away, that Athena dared to move, remaining still in the grass.


    She couldn''t tell if this guy was playing with her as prey or genuinely hadn''t noticed her.


    But this time she escaped unscathed.


    "..."


    After lying motionless for over ten minutes, she glanced at the white package from afar and decided to return to the thatched hut.


    Darkness will fall at 7 p.m.! Players, please return to the shelter as soon as possible.


    Athena paced around the shelter, feeling restless.


    If she didn''t drive away this damn bear, she wouldn''t be able to move freely.


    But given the vast difference in strength, she felt helpless.


    She was definitely a unique case in the newbie tutorial.


    Feeling increasingly agitated, she sat back on the bed, trying a few rounds of deep breathing to gradually calm herself down.


    I remember this guy is afraid of fire?


    Great, a weakness, which means there''s hope.


    Taking out her only possessions: a half-empty bottle of mineral water, an axe, a sickle, and the last compressed biscuit. She opened the shop and chose to sell her sickle to the system.


    Would you like to sell the sickle for 10 copper coins?


    Yes / No ?


    With her current resources, food and water couldn''t be touched.


    Although the sickle could speed up grass cutting, she could still do it by hand. Though much less efficiently, at least there was a way to get weeds. The axe couldn''t be sold. Without it, she couldn''t chop trees for wood.


    Although food and water were precious to her, selling them to the system store would only yield two copper coins, which she ultimately gave up on.


    After much deliberation, she reluctantly sold the sickle.


    Without hesitation, Athena clicked the button.


    Clicking "yes," Athena successfully obtained 10 copper coins.


    Sure enough, on her game interface, there were ten extra copper coins. She quickly navigated through the myriad of items in the store, heading straight for the fire attribute section.


    [ Fire Enhancer (Basic) ]This is a fire enhancer that can instantly increase the intensity of your fire. Even if you only give it a little material, it can become very large, regardless of whether the material is exhausted, lasting for two minutes!


    It''s powerful but also a burden. Are you sure you want to spend copper coins to buy it?


    If you want to set the mountains on fire, then your choice is correct.


    Price: 8 copper coins


    This was what Athena wanted to buy, but it required fire first.


    She clicked to confirm the purchase and successfully obtained the fire enhancer.


    Only after holding it in her hand did she realize it was a spherical bead the size of a marble, with a pattern of flames burning and surging inside.


    The soreness from selling the sickle had finally eased a bit.


    She opened the search interface again, looking for fire-starting devices, only to find that they were even more expensive. The cheapest one cost 1 small gold coin.


    This was clearly unaffordable for most players. She finally understood why it was considered junk.


    There was no other way. She could only resort to the second plan, though she really didn''t want to.


    She quietly waited for the darkness to arrive.


    Darkness is encroaching upon the world: 10, 9, 8... 0


    As darkness fell, the candle on the left instantly ignited.


    Light CandleFeature 2At the moment darkness arrives, it automatically reignites to fend off the darkness for you


    This was Athena''s second plan. Without a lighter, it meant she had to burn precious candles even during the day and be careful not to extinguish them along the way.


    Until the moment she encountered the bear, she would ignite and use the fire enhancer. But there were too many variables. The bear was extremely averse to fire, but that didn''t mean it couldn''t deal with her, a human.


    Who knew if it would anger it instead, causing it to charge at her at full speed. Moreover, when she went out today, she found that the wind here wasn''t small. Protecting the candle from extinguishing was too difficult.


    There was no other way. She had to resort to the third plan.


    "Buying lighters!"


    --> Buying lighters! Private message me!


    This was her third plan. It was only the second day, and many people hadn''t yet realized the value of such items. If it weren''t for her urgent need for fire, she wouldn''t have thought of this. Plus, everyone had light candles, so they temporarily didn''t need to worry about a fire source.


    There would always be one or two people who would take the bait.


    She believed that some people had already discovered the value of lighters, but they wouldn''t publicize it because it wasn''t beneficial to anyone.


    Probably many people, like her, were quietly collecting them, just not as openly as she was.


    Yesterday and today, she had a total of 6 opportunities to speak.


    At the same time, she posted her profile picture on the exchange and tried hard to squeeze out a smile to make herself look harmless.


    [Compressed Biscuit]PriceLighter + FlintstoneDetailsI have surplus food, but the birthplace is too cold, can''t make fire, don''t want to waste light candles anymore, seeking to buy a lighter.


    Because it was night now, everyone could only stay in the shelter, and most people were online. Even though messages were scrolling quickly, many people saw her message.


    Soon, someone added her as a friend, and she accepted some of them.


    -- Miss beautiful, you also know lighters are valuable. Why do you have to do this? If others find out, it''s not good for both of us.


    She directly set the other party''s messages to do not disturb. She was almost dying, why would she care about those things? Ridiculous!


    She dismissed a few more idle people who were bothering her. Only two people were left willing to sell lighters.


    -- Little sister, you are pretty... This lighter isn''t something I can''t give you. I have plenty, but the price can be negotiated online or maybe some small benefits.


    Athena didn''t rush to reply to this person; she left him aside for now.


    The other one.


    -- You want a lighter? The price is too low.-- Add half a bottle of water--> No


    Athena gritted her teeth, feeling helpless.


    --> I have upgraded shelter materials, that special kind of weed. I can give you 25 portions. If that''s still not enough, then the deal will have to be terminated.


    The other party clearly knew the value of lighters, so there was no need to beat around the bush.


    Lighters were undoubtedly precious now, but that was only a concern for 7 days later. Without enough supplies to last through those 7 days, having wealth would be meaningless.


    The other party hesitated for a long time. The conditions she offered were actually quite good; just collecting so many building materials during the day was outstanding.


    -- Your reasons sound too fake. Add one more piece of intelligence


    As expected, the other party agreed, but still wanted her to add one more piece of intelligence.


    -- Fine, after the transaction, I''ll send the intelligence to you.


    Athena adjusted the selling price of her item in the system store. Not long after the adjustment, it showed that the transaction was successful.


    In her hand appeared a lighter, but it wasn''t full, only half full. Athena fulfilled the agreement and sent a message to the other party, but it wasn''t the information the other party wanted.


    --> A purple flower, with jagged leaves. If cut, it poses a danger to life, and the wound will emit black liquid.


    Tit for tat.


    She tried lighting the lighter, watching the bright flames, feeling a sense of relief in her heart.


    "Ah, just sold the sickle, now went for materials, damn bear!"


    "Speaking of which, I''ve grown up so big and haven''t even tasted bear meat yet."


    Ignoring whether the materials were exhausted, tsk tsk, she liked it. Silently picking up the dried weeds from the ground, she placed them on the flame enhancer.


    Then she bound them with vines onto a fist-sized rock.


    Never thought the skill she learned of throwing lead balls in the past would come in handy now.


    Life is indeed unpredictable.


    "I''ll use the moment the lighter ignites the dry grass to throw it out, the target being the bear!"


    So... what is the chance for me to kill the bear with fire? S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The bear has an 80% chance of getting severe injury and a 60% chance of death!


    As expected.


    Athena picked up the axe beside her again, practicing how to chop. With each repetition, she became more skilled.


    She drank one-third of the last bottle of water, leaving the rest for tomorrow.


    With the last two copper coins, she bought a pair of grass shoes from the system store for one copper coin. Unlike others who were trembling with fear, Athena ensured her sleep was protected every day she spent here.


    The next morning, suppressing her excitement, she gulped down a big mouthful of water, almost choking herself.


    As usual, she performed her set of radio exercises.


    With the shiny axe in hand, she stepped out of the door. It was still the same grassland as yesterday, and Athena didn''t plan to chop trees to consume her energy.


    She leaned the axe against a tree and held the lighter she made in one hand, and her own crafted flame enhancer in the other. Not only that, she also imitated the actions of the bear from yesterday here.


    Standing up and smiling towards one side, then standing up and smiling towards the other side, and not forgetting to wave.


    When she felt like her face was about to freeze with a smile, she saw a suspicious figure hiding in the bushes beside her, moving towards her.


    That huge body couldn''t be concealed by the grass.


    Athena didn''t dare to step back, fearing it would trigger the animal''s hunting instinct.


    She stood in place, quickly ignited the dry grass with the lighter, but because she was staring ahead the whole time, feeling the flames rise, she swiftly threw it out into the distance.


    The flame enhancer activated in mid-air, and only a huge fireball was seen falling towards that direction. The bear wanted to run, its mouth still emitting loud threatening and terrifying roars.


    But the fireball didn''t care about these.


    Hit!


    Its extremely low flame resistance was fully displayed at this moment, its body instantly ignited. Its screams gradually became more tragic, shaking its head wildly, and started madly rushing towards her.


    The big black eyes flickered with ferocity, its heavy body engulfed in flames, making it even more eerie and terrifying.


    Its strength was immense and fierce, forcing Athena to retreat. In case of a sudden counterattack from the bear, she deliberately chose to stand beside a tree.


    With her agility higher than usual, she picked up the axe and began to play a game of hide-and-seek with this severely injured bear, occasionally delivering a fierce blow from one side, causing the wounds to bleed profusely.


    She couldn''t afford to be injured. Once she was injured, death awaited her.


    Finally exhausting all its patience, the bear viciously rammed into the tree, causing it to tremble violently and break with a loud crack.


    Athena''s pupils contracted as she tightened her grip on the axe even more tightly. She knew this bear was just fighting its last stand. If she could dodge this final blow, victory would be hers.


    The bear started its final charge, launching a desperate counterattack towards Athena.


    Athena somehow produced a plastic bag from somewhere and fiercely threw it towards the bear. Inside the plastic bag was her last remaining water and the salt she bought with her last copper coin, mixed into saltwater.


    The plastic bag quickly melted in the fire, and the saltwater inside splashed onto the bear''s body in an instant. It let out a miserable cry, and its charge veered off course.


    Athena swiftly dodged to the side, narrowly avoiding this final attack. She only felt a wave of intense heat rush past her.


    The bear collapsed to the ground, motionless. Flames still burned on its body, and Athena looked on coldly.


    She picked up a large rock and hurled it viciously at the bear. As expected, the bear made a sudden lunge but missed everything.


    She waited until the flames extinguished, until the once mighty king of the mountain had no more movement or strength left. Then, Athena approached, wielding her axe, and delivered a fierce blow to its neck.


    Congratulations! You have slain the bear!First kill of a Level 5 monster achieved!Title obtained: Hunter!You have 3 attribute points to allocate freely!Congratulations! You have received the following rewards: 2 green packages!


    Completion of the newbie tutorial. The spatial backpack is now officially open!


    Three days left until the first wave of cold strikes! Five days left until the first wave of monster attacks!

 0004 – Big Dream

    0004 ¨C Big DreamShe sat slumped on the ground, tossing the axe aside. Then, with a frustrated kick, she nudged the body of the long-tailed bear.


    Opening the system panel, amidst a series of system prompts, there was also a prominent purple font.


    Impending cold wave lasting three daysCurrent survival rate: 40%Please upgrade shelter as soon as possibleSurvival rate increases by 15%Please stockpile enough foodSurvival rate increases by 10%Please build a fireplace and have enough firewoodSurvival rate increases by 20%


    "Ah, this is madness, a cold wave coming?" Athena Ravencroft propped her hands behind her on the lawn to prevent herself from falling backward.


    Who knows how many people will die after this cold wave passes. Forget worrying about others, she might not even survive herself.


    "Unlock the system backpack function."


    Successfully unlocked, do you want to dismantle the long-tailed bear?


    "Hehe, this function is great, it can even help with dismantling automatically? Dismantle!"


    Obtained tattered long-tailed bear hidex1Obtained long-tailed bear meat chunksx25Obtained long-tailed bear pawsx2


    The huge body of the long-tailed bear that was originally on the ground disappeared, and her backpack was filled with many items.


    Next were the free attribute points. She thought they were fixed, but unexpectedly, the system would allocate them.


    Where should she allocate them? Strengthen her own expertise or fill in her shortcomings?


    Fifty pieces of wood, does that mean she has to chop down fifty trees? With just two days, with her petite frame, she might not be able to finish chopping even if she worked to exhaustion.


    "All three free attribute points shall allocated to strength!"


    Attribute PanelNameAthena RavencroftTitle[ Hunter ]RaceHumanGenderFemaleStrength4+0.4Speed1.6Agility1.8Mental2Your strength is equivalent to two adult males! You''re a strong girl!


    Athena happily whistled, but unfortunately, reality didn''t match her imagination.


    "Pfft... " It turns out she still hadn''t learned how to whistle.


    "Tsk, I''ve seen others whistle like this!"


    Ignoring such trivial matters, she rolled up her clothes and found that her body hadn''t turned into a Barbie doll.  But what made her happier was the feeling of increased strength. When she put her hand on her belly, she felt a defined abdominal muscle.


    Not only that, the fatigue she felt just now vanished, and she felt full of energy. And indeed, when she stood up and swung the axe again, the axe, which was originally heavy for her, now felt so light, wielded by her with ease.


    "I''m really a strong girl!"


    Suddenly, she felt like she was starting to like this game a bit. This sense of achievement was not something you could get through ordinary means.


    Walking to the tree broken by the long-tailed bear, she once again attempted to dismantle it.


    Congratulations, obtained wood block x1


    Still 49 trees to go, and 9 bundles of grass. Although with her current strength, she could finish within two days, but then she probably wouldn''t have any time to rest.


    Once again, she opened the system''s trading panel.


    Two kilograms of bear meatPrice9 units of special grass (three bundles), 2 units of wood blocks and one bottle of waterDescriptionExpensive? But it''s meat! Limited stock!


    Alright, she didn''t need to worry about food for the time being. With so much surplus food, she could exchange it for the items she lacked.


    With a thought, two green packages appeared immediately in her hand.


    Shining green package, containing a blueprint for a defensive turret (basic)Green package, containing one bright candle


    Without hesitation, she simultaneously opened both green packages, revealing a rare and practical bright candle. And then there was this blueprint, on the ancient parchment was a drawing of a turret.


    Defensive Turret (Basic)Defense2Attack8SkillsDouble damage probability 5%, fires a shot every 3 secondsConstructionDefensive Turret (Basic) Blueprint1Wood Blocks50Stones20With it, you can to some extent free up your hands. This is the normal tower defense game, you command from the rear, not charging into battle!


    Very powerful! That was Athena''s first thought. However, this made her already scarce building materials even scarcer.


    But once built successfully, the benefits would be obvious. Her chances of survival against the monsters attacking five days later would greatly increase. If the monsters were weaker, she might even win effortlessly!


    There had been too many surprises for her. So how about the reward title [Hunter] for the first kill?


    Clicking on the title, the details of [Hunter] popped up.


    [ Hunter (Equipped) ]Durability50/50LevelRareAcquisitionDropped by the first kill of the long-tailed bearTitle AttributesWhen fighting prey, strength increases by 10%, defense increases by 5%Adjust your mindset, it''s just some struggling prey!


    Athena couldn''t believe her eyes. The [Hunter] title might not have a very obvious effect at the moment, but as her attributes increased later on, its enhancement would be a formidable figure.


    Great, she''s got strength for work now!


    She walked out of the grassland and came to an area with many trees. Lifting the axe, she started chopping trees, each swing embedding deeply into the trunk.


    Bang¡ªbang¡ª, bang¡ªbang¡ª, thud¡ªthud¡ª, thud¡ªthud¡ª


    "Crack, crack."


    A tree fell. Athena dismantled it and moved to another tree.


    She kept chopping until three in the afternoon, when she had to reluctantly stretch her sore shoulders and waist, stopping the tree chopping. It wasn''t that she wanted to stop, but she just couldn''t bear the hunger anymore.


    She put the axe back into her system backpack, opened the system panel, and refreshed the purple font.


    It was quite disappointing to find that there was no prompt today about where packages had respawned.


    "Sigh, I guess I can''t always rely on shortcuts, huh? Looks like I''ll have to prepare food myself honestly."


    She began to look for some larger stones nearby, shuttling between her thatched house and the outside. Carrying one large stone after another inside.


    Looking at the five large stones she had brought over, she let out a satisfied sigh. She placed them at the end of the bed, piecing them together in a half-circle.


    At this moment, she was grateful that her house leaked. The puddles formed by last night''s rain inside the room hadn''t dried up completely yet.


    Rolling up her sleeves a bit more, she began to knead the yellow soil into round balls, filling the gaps between the stones.


    Under the urging of hunger, it didn''t take long before she successfully built a very rudimentary stove. The yellow soil on top hadn''t completely dried, so it might take until tomorrow to be fully functional.


    Starving, she could only take out a piece of bear meat from her backpack. Using the axe to cut off the charred meat, she began to taste it.


    With the first bite, she almost vomited. Not only was there a strong fishy smell, but it was also tough and dry, even more unpalatable because it hadn''t been bled properly.


    She sprinkled the remaining bit of salt on it and forced herself to wolf it down.


    "How could something be so disgustingly awful, completely different from what I imagined!" Athena thought with some indignation. Originally, she thought she could enjoy a delicious meal, but it turned out to be such an ending.


    When will I ever be able to live a wealthy life?


    The road ahead is long.


    Originally, she planned to keep the bear paws for herself, but she decided against it because she knew she didn''t have the ability to turn these two bear paws into a delicacy.


    She chose to sell both bear paws to the system and successfully obtained 20 copper coins, which were worth more than her sickle.


    She could keep the copper coins and slowly check the shop at night to see if there were any heating devices she needed. After all, the nights were so boring; she had to find something to pass the time.


    After sitting down for a simple rest, she began to move the stones again.


    Compared to the first time building the stove, she was much more proficient the second time.


    She built another one at the head of the bed, making a total of two stoves.


    Now, as long as she ensured that she had enough burning materials and upgraded the shelter, she should be able to withstand the cold wave.


    At 7 p.m., darkness approaches! All players, please return to the shelter as soon as possibleThe darkness is encroaching upon the world, 10, 9, 8... 0.


    The bright candle burned, illuminating the room brightly despite its small size.


    Athena lay on the bed full of hay, idly browsing through the shop.


    [ Five kilograms of cotton quilt ]Price3 gold coinsMost cold-proof equipment, stop selling three days before the cold wave arrives! Please do not rely on the system. The system only provides guidance!


    Athena clenched her fists in anger.


    "What''s this all about? You warn about the cold wave coming three days in advance, but you stop selling the items three days earlier?"


    "Not only are the prices exorbitant, but you also don''t allow purchases? Does that mean I can only rely on my luck to buy things randomly?"


    With such a long advance notice, nobody knew if the items bought in the system shop would be useful. This undoubtedly raised the difficulty of survival for the players to another level.


    If the system stopped selling items three days before the arrival of each scene, then they wouldn''t be able to obtain the corresponding supplies from the system shop at all.


    Some people might even try to guess the next scene, buy a large amount of supplies, and then sell them at a high price, which was a kind of gambling in another sense.


    There was no way to vent her anger. She could only quit this system shop, which looked very disheartening.


    The regional chat channel was still lively. But what was different from before was the high frequency of her ID, "Big Dream."


    --Has Big Dream logged in yet?


    --I caught a rabbit today, envy me?


    --What''s your rabbit catch? Big Dream killed a long-tailed bear! Level 5!


    --Big Dream must be planning to upgrade the shelter, needing so many wood blocks and grass. I haven''t eaten anything for two days yesterday and today. Today, I forced myself to go out and get some grass. I want to exchange it for half a piece of bear meat.


    --Me too, I''m not even hoping to upgrade the shelter. Just having some food is a blessing.


    Athena didn''t expect that selling the long-tailed bear would make her a big shot.


    Big Dream, not bad, she gave a thumbs up to the person who came up with this nickname. But what puzzled her was why these people didn''t go directly for the trade and instead waited for her to come online.


    She focused on each profile picture and found out based on eyes and chins alone that most loudiest people on the channel are Americans and Chinese.  sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When she opened the trading place, she found out that she had forgotten to enable automatic selling. This meant that she had to manually approve each trading request.


    What shocked her the most was that one person requested to exchange ten units of wood blocks with her.


    The ID was [ Big Bear ]?


    Big Bear wants to become your friend


    Yes / No?

 0005 – Instance

    0005 ¨C InstanceAthena Ravencroft looked at the application interface that popped up. She pretended to stroke her chin and wondered, "What does this person want with me?"


    Obviously, there wouldn''t be any results.


    "Yes"


    --Hello, how much bear meat do you have in total? Don''t misunderstand, I have a lot of wood blocks, maybe we can trade.


    If you have this kind of thing in the future, please contact me first


    Athena sat up straight away, crossed her legs, and seriously pondered the chat logs.


    The avatar of this person was a pixelated girl with short hair. In this game, avatars couldn''t be faked; they were all converted from real photos into pixel characters. So how did this girl named [ Big Bear ] manage to obtain such a huge amount of wood blocks in such a short time?


    One should know that girls are already at a disadvantage in this kind of game, and Athena herself was only ahead of others because of the purple font prompts.


    She had a total of 25 pieces of bear meat and had to keep 10.


    Although the system''s automatic decomposition function was convenient, it also resulted in losses, such as no leftovers like organs. Originally, there were 400 kilograms of bear meat, but now there were only 25 pieces, each weighing 12 kilograms, which could be sold for 180 kilograms.


    --> I can give you 80 kilograms of bear meat in exchange for 80 wood blocks, do you have them?-- Please give me some time. I can give them to you on the evening of the 4th day. Can you keep the meat for me until then?


    Athena replied without hesitation.


    --> No, the cold wave will arrive on the 5th day, and you should know that I need to build a shelter.If I keep this meat and don''t trade with others, and if you break the agreement later, I won''t be able to upgrade my shelter.


    Big Bear didn''t send a message for a long time, perhaps she also knew that her request was a bit excessive. Actually, it wasn''t impossible to leave some for her.


    After all, even if she left 80 kilograms for her, Athena still had 100 kilograms available for sale, which was more than enough for her to collect other materials.


    Athena shook her head, thinking that this person probably didn''t intend to negotiate further, so she exited the chat interface with her and entered the trading interface.


    Looking at the densely packed red dots on the trading application interface, she clicked away furiously.


    She successfully traded 86 kilograms of bear meat for 90 units of special weeds (30 bundles) and 13 units of wood blocks. These were all scattered trades, without any big transactions.


    It seemed like everyone was living a difficult life. Just as she was about to go to sleep with the joy of this harvest, [ Big Bear ] sent her a message again.


    -- I can tell you some very important information!-- How important is it?-- You should know about this system. Besides contacting the item and obtaining its information, once you know its corresponding name, you can also access its information!


    Athena knew about this. After all, when she hung up the bear meat, the system asked her if she wanted to disclose its corresponding name.


    She chose to disclose it at the time and even gained 5 reputation points. But that didn''t matter to her; being able to exchange for reputation points was also good.


    Although she didn''t know what the reputation points were useful for at this stage, they would come in handy someday. And even if she disclosed the information to others, they couldn''t do much with it, after all, she was only able to kill the bear because she knew its weakness from the purple font prompt.


    --> Okay


    If the other party was willing to tell her their secret, what reason did she have to refuse? Even if it was just an ordinary piece of information, with the purple font, she might still dig up something useful.


    -- Good, the keyword is Woodblock Goblins. --Congratulations on unlocking the keyword Woodblock Goblins!Woodblock Goblins (Non-combat creatures)  Lifespan: 3 monthsSkill  Rapid woodcutting ()Give them enough time, and they''ll clear the forest. Small bodies, big strength!Acquisition methodsSilver packages, Goblin instances (currently not explorable)


    Oh, look at our purple font being so capable! It even provided her with acquisition methods, although knowing the methods now wouldn''t get her anything.


    -- In my birthplace, the thatched house, there was a silver package, and after opening it, I got 5 Woodblock Goblins, so I don''t know if there are other ways to obtain them


    Athena understood. This girl was the legendary lucky one. And she said she got the silver package from where? It just refreshed directly in the thatched house.


    Thinking back, every time she got a package, it was always a struggle, no pain, no gain.


    Damn lucky!


    --> You''re so sincere, I agree to this deal. I hope you can collect enough wood blocks on the evening of the 4th day-- Okay, thank you.


    This girl was quite polite, which made her feel a bit awkward, scratching her nose. She wasn''t going to change! Now it''s time to organize all the resources she has.


    Tattered bear fur1 pieceBear meat194 kilograms (100 kilograms reserved, 80 kilograms for Big Bear, only 14 kilograms available for trading.)Special weeds165 units (30 bundles)Wood blocks32 units (Big Bear owes me 80 units)


    Athena looked at the abundant harvest of the past two days and almost couldn''t stop smiling.


    Patting her cheek, she warned herself not to be complacent. She still needed 18 units of wood blocks to upgrade the shelter! The revolution is not yet successful; comrades still need to work hard!


    Tomorrow, continue to speed up tree cutting and collect stones in the afternoon.


    For her, collecting stones with the system backpack was easy; just touch them, and they would be stored in the backpack to bring back. It was just a bit troublesome to find so many suitable stones. But it was worth it without having to exchange precious bear meat for them.


    "Ha." Athena yawned, wanting to sleep. But then she felt like she had forgotten something... Opening the friends interface, she found the lighter that the creepy guy who wanted some small ''disgusting'' favors from her before trading.


    "Just you? Kneeling in front of me and begging wouldn''t be enough, even being a servant isn''t worthy enough for you!"


    "So many flaws in your appearance, your face is not even worth a piece of cloth..."


    With a burst of output, Athena felt her soul elevate and immediately blocked the person. Regardless of whether the other person could sleep or not, she slept soundly.


    At exactly twelve midnight, the system panel suddenly appeared in the air, and the entire screen displayed in red.


    ( !!! )


    Messages kept bombarding, and the number of surviving people in the upper right corner plummeted from 9800 at a cliff-like speed.


    Athena was disturbed by the noise and turned over irritably. But the inhumane cries outside startled her awake. She just woke up to see the system interface floating above her head, glowing blood red.


    Warning! The third day has arrived, and darkness will further invade!Lost souls are seeking companions! Remember, light can repel monsters within a certain range!A temporary instance has been randomly generated: Lost Souls!


    Athena sat on the bed, watching as the darkness crept in through the door crack, inching closer to the bed. She picked up the candle nearby, but instead of dispelling the darkness, it spread further.


    Two primary candles can be automatically synthesized into one intermediate candle!


    She reluctantly lit another candle she had just obtained. The two candles attracted each other like magnets, quickly merging into one, with antique patterns carved on it.


    Item obtained: Intermediate CandleIntermediate CandleBurning time: 30 daysFeature 1Drives away darkness when encountered.Feature 2Certain mental purification effect.Feature 3Wind resistant, not easily extinguished.


    The light shone brightly but not harshly, very gentle, closer to the warmth of the sun. The space, originally being eroded step by step by darkness, was now enveloped by light again, pushing back the darkness.


    In the darkness, a figure resembling a skeletal man appeared, with sunken cheeks and eyes devoid of whites, completely black. He twisted his neck, emitting a cracking sound. He reached out his hands towards Athena, strands of black silk floating along his fingertips. His voice was ethereal and eerie, tempting,


    "Come, embrace the darkness, and journey with me."


    "Come on! What are you doing? Why aren''t you moving!!"


    Seeing Athena''s lack of reaction, he started to go mad, his face becoming more hideous, his teeth trembling uncontrollably, as if he wanted to rush forward and tear Athena apart. Just then, as if the darkness was dispelled by the light, a path without darkness appeared, leading outside the door...


    Athena suddenly showed fear, following this path, desperately wanting to escape from this terrifying creature. The monster behind her stared fixedly at her fleeing figure, his face''s smile becoming more eerie, his aura becoming more menacing.


    The black silk entwined around his hands gradually thickened, ready to strike the prey. Who knew that as Athena touched the wooden door, everything stopped. She slowly turned around, lowered her head, trembling all over, as if crying. The monster grew impatient, intending to scare this timid human again.


    As he approached Athena, she lifted her head. Her face was beaming, even trembling with laughter. When this guy entered, although there was no prompt from the system, the purple font provided detailed information.


    Lost Soul ( Level 2 )SkillsConfusion, intimidation, causing disorientationUnable to attack those protected by light.


    Athena looked at the monster, who actually showed an expression of disbelief. She smirked.


    "Do you think I''m crying?"


    Saying this, she even handed the candle in her hand forward, the flame blazing, instantly burning a hole in the lost soul''s hand she reached out, making it tremble in fear.


    "If you didn''t come in being so cautious, even pretending to attack me from a distance. Don''t keep trying to scare me while looking at my candle with a terrified expression..."


    Athena gently shook the candle in her hand, approaching step by step. The positions of hunter and prey had been reversed.


    "I might not tease you like this anymore. Maybe you''ll really see a timid little girl who doesn''t dare to move."


    Saying this, she even showed a look of regret. She held the candle and kept guard at the door crack.


    "Hey, is the shelter so fragile?"


    "Or can you only catch its flaws and enter through the crack?"


    "Oh, this crappy door can''t be closed properly because its level isn''t high enough. So you were waiting for me here? Looks like I should upgrade the shelter sooner."


    Athena looked at the trembling lost soul and said unhappily, "Weren''t you just trying to get me to open the door and then extinguish the candle in the dark, take me to your lair to play?"


    "It''s only fair, since you came to my house first, I''ll entertain you well. It''s been a long time since I had an all-night chat. Let''s talk!"


    Athena smiled innocently. "Don''t worry, I won''t keep you long. After all, I have things to do in the morning." S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "In the morning, I won''t be guarding this crack anymore, I''ll let you out. Don''t you want to see what you''ll become when daylight comes?"

 0006 – Lost Soul’s Contract

    0006 ¨C Lost Soul¡¯s ContractShe ended up guarding the door, preventing the monster from going out. As time passed, the monster''s attacks became more and more fierce. However, no matter how fierce it was, as long as Athena Ravencroft handed the candle of light forward, the creature would tremble in fear again.


    "Do you know what kind of people have morning grumpiness? Or, people you know... um, I mean, do monsters have morning grumpiness?"


    "Unfortunately, you now know someone who has morning grumpiness, or rather, someone very serious about it."


    Athena glanced at her watch, yawned a few times in a row, but her expression showed no sign of wanting to sleep.


    "Alright, why are you coming in here to disturb my peaceful sleep?"


    She had been talking all night, but this guy in front of her hadn''t said a single word after attacking and being forced to retreat.


    Thinking about how she had been rambling for hours like this, she was really annoyed.


    "Are you mute? Weren''t you quite talkative before? Why aren''t you saying anything now?"


    She impatiently thrust the candle forward once again.


    The daylight is about to come, congratulations to the players for surviving the darkness!


    05:48


    With just over ten minutes left until 6 o''clock, Athena began to sit up straight.


    One wouldn''t believe how curious she was - what would this monster look like during the day?


    Monsters born in darkness, would they directly vanish upon encountering daylight? Athena began to carefully examine the lost soul in front of her.


    Under her scrutiny, the figure gradually stiffened, and just when Athena thought he was about to launch a final struggle, he slowly raised his axe. Who would''ve thought this guy would suddenly change his fierce demeanor?


    He pouted and started crying.


    Crying?


    The axe stopped mid-air, unsure of how to proceed, not understanding this new behavior?


    But the lost soul, originally a towering figure of two meters, began to shrink gradually to around 10 centimeters. The whole creature cried with a childish voice that seemed to tear one''s heart apart, as if it wanted to flip the roof with its cries. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It became ugly and cute, but Athena only found his crying annoying.


    What''s going on, this guy can still transform?


    She casually grabbed a handful of weeds, preparing to stuff them into his mouth. It wouldn''t be good if it attracted some other chaotic things.


    "I''m telling you, I''m not buying it. If you want me to let you go, you have to give me something good."


    Looking at the heartless Athena, the lost soul took out a nail-sized contract.


    [ Contract ]Let me return to darkness, and every night I will bring you information from the darkness.No harm allowed, applies to both parties !DescriptionPoor lost soul, bullied by a human.


    Athena was speechless. She was just chatting casually, how did it escalate to this level?


    After making sure the contract was fine, she readily decided to let go of this free labor. She stood up and pounded her numb legs, making way for the lost soul to return to the darkness.


    The other party left without even looking back. Although the system hadn''t announced the arrival of daylight yet, it was still daytime outside.


    So these guys were afraid not of sunlight, but the system''s announcement of daylight...


    Since darkness has life, does daylight also have life?


    Athena quickly stopped the further contemplation.


    "You crappy monster! After chatting for so long, I thought we were friends. I didn''t expect you to just leave without a word!"


    "What a pity, didn''t get to see what you look like in the sunlight... How about catching another one later?"


    Daylight has arrived, please begin exploring the world!Instance rewards will be released at two o''clock.


    Even though it was a bit late today, Athena still did a set of radio exercises. Ignoring the system again, she went to work first.


    Don''t bother her, she has her own rhythm! With the axe on her shoulder, she headed out.


    Clang-clang...


    Clang-clang, thud-thud, thud-thud...


    "Dismantle."


    During the break, Athena casually tucked her hair behind her ears. She took out a piece of charcoal-grilled bear meat and wolfed it down hungrily. This stuff was impossible to savor.


    Thinking that she had touched the stove this morning and the clay was almost dry, she could make a delicious meal when she returned at noon.


    With motivation, the process of chopping trees became less tedious. As another tree fell, the notification finally sounded.


    Wood Blocks50/50Special Weeds165/50Upgrade to shelter conditions met, Please proceed to the shelter for upgrade!


    "Alright, break time!"


    Athena found the grassy spot that she had made into her own little pit over the past few days. She lay down in the same position and started scrolling through the chat interface.


    The most conspicuous thing was the remaining number of survivors.


    7653/10000


    On their first night, over 200 people died. The next day, the deaths were sporadic and didn''t exceed 100, but at the moment the third day arrived...


    Almost 2000 deaths!


    A monster that only confused people''s minds had successfully torn open a bloody wound in the hearts of this group, who were on the verge of collapse. It made them abandon the light and flee into darkness.


    -- So many people died yesterday!


    -- I''m lucky I was too scared to move yesterday. If I had really rushed out, today''s death toll would''ve included me!


    -- Isn''t this a tower defense game? How come there are so many weird things! Are they not letting us live?


    -- Yeah, the real game hasn''t even started yet...


    -- Monsters can actually run into the shelter, is it because the level is too low?


    -- I knew this crappy thatched hut was useless!


    -- No, we have to upgrade this thing quickly.


    -- More people will die when the cold wave comes, everyone, stock up on supplies.


    -- This is a question for the pros! Pros, how do you gather materials? Those trees are so hard to chop, do you have any methods?


    -- Pros, please take me along!


    Athena recognized the person called "Ask-to-the-Heavens." She heard that he had successfully upgraded the shelter on the second day. Without bothering to read the messages of these bootlickers, she scrolled down further.


    After confirming that there was nothing useful, she patted off the weeds on her body and returned to her little shabby thatched hut. Lifting her hand, she gently touched the wooden door.


    Current Shelter1This is just a dilapidated thatched hut, please upgrade as soon as possible.Wood Blocks50/50Special Weeds165/50Upgrade


    Yes / No ?


    "Upgrade."


    A burst of white light enveloped the entire house, gradually expanding. When it reappeared, a quaint and exquisite wooden house replaced the old thatched hut.


    Moreover, a circle of protective fence was added, enclosing a small courtyard.

 0007 – Upgraded Shelter

    0007 ¨C Upgraded ShelterAthena watched this miraculous change, thinking she might never forget it. She pushed open the newly repaired wooden door and stepped into the wooden house, but stopped at the doorway. Looking at her dirty grass shoes, she chose to leave them outside and entered barefoot. The wooden floor felt comfortable underfoot, not as cold as she had imagined.


    The small wooden house had grown significantly larger, with the small wooden bed that had accompanied her for two nights still there, only now adorned with exquisite carvings. Two delicate and soft grass mats were laid on top, clearly processed by the system, a world apart from her own attempts at weaving.


    Glancing under the bed, she noticed five more mats of the same size. She could arrange them according to her preferences when needed.


    Next to the bed was a hollow window, typical of ancient style, with a round wooden block beside it that would automatically fasten it shut when lifted. A rather magical way of closing windows.


    What surprised Athena the most was that her two crude stoves were still there, surrounded by low wooden blocks but with the earth floor preserved.


    This discovery left her both delighted and worried. There was really no need to keep everything exactly as it was; she wouldn''t mind if the system made some improvements. Athena carefully examined her new home and felt very satisfied.


    She opened the shop and spent her only 20 copper coins on a small iron pot and a rubber water bucket. The pot was essential for her daily barbecue meals, as she was already tired of them, and the bucket was for trading water since the water in her inventory wouldn''t be enough.


    Although the system''s decomposition consumed resources unreasonably, it was convenient. The decomposed long-tailed bear meat was already prepared. She placed the meat in the pot, lit the dry grass with a lighter, added some twigs, and soon the fire grew, casting a warm glow in the room.


    Today, she indulged herself by pouring a whole bottle of mineral water into the pot, intending to have a hot soup for a change of taste. The fire rose, emitting thick white smoke. Instead of dispersing, the smoke condensed and drifted out of the window on its own, sparing her the annoyance of smoke filling the room when she lit the fire.


    Athena sat a little farther away, as it was still hot outside, and she was wearing winter pajamas. Looking through the window at the sunny weather outside, it was hard to imagine it suddenly turning into a blizzard.


    "The seasons here are different from Earth. Bringing on a cold wave, are they trying to let us experience the winter we didn''t have time to experience on Earth?"


    She tried the soup, finding it not to her liking, and couldn''t help but complain to the system for making her life less hopeful.


    Server Announcement!


    Instance rewards have been released!


    In this instance, there are a total of three S-rank players, 268 A-rank players, and one S+ player!


    In her private panel:


    Congratulations to player [ Big Dream ], for becoming the only S+ rank player to clear the Lost Soul Instance this time.Congratulations on receiving the following rewards!White packagesx5Blue packagesx2Should it be announced to the whole server?


    Yes / No ?


    "No"


    Athena looked at the system panel, rubbed her hands, and it was time to test her luck again. She took a deep breath. Every time she opened these, she never believed in superstitions!


    Claim!


    In the four white packages, there are a total of 4 bottles of mineral water and 6 compressed biscuits.


    In the middle white package, there will be 5 cockroaches.


    In one blue package, there is a blueprint for a defense turret (basic). S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the other blue package, there is a bag of rice!


    Athena was shocked. She couldn''t understand why the system''s package could contain cockroaches. Of course, she had no intention of opening this white package; she planned to keep it and use it as a "favor" for someone else later on.


    Opening a few packages, the contents were as described in purple font. Looking at yet another blueprint for a defense turret, she muttered to herself, "Seems like I can never escape the fate of being a lumberjack..."


    Originally, she had planned to lightly chop ten trees this afternoon, gather some stones, and then return to rest. It seemed she would have to double her efforts now, as she only had this afternoon and tomorrow to prepare.


    She opened her trading place and agreed to some trade offers for wood blocks, obtaining 6 units of wood. But the prospect of building two defense turrets seemed distant, not to mention the shortage of stone.


    All the larger stones around had been used by her for the fireplace; tomorrow, she''d have to venture farther to collect stones.


    "Distribute 0.5 of my free attribute points to strength and 0.5 to speed!"


    Strength always needed reinforcement, but so did the speed for escaping.


    Attribute PanelNameAthena RavencroftTitle[ Hunter ]RaceHumanGenderFemaleStrength4.5 + 0.4Speed2.1Agility1.8Mental2You are a strong and fast girl!


    Her luck had been quite bad; she hadn''t seen any randomly refreshed packages from the system since the first day...


    Oh well, time to eat.


    She cautiously lifted the lid of the pot. The fire crackled with some sparks, and the thick meat soup inside occasionally bubbled with white foam before bursting.


    Athena deeply inhaled the rich aroma, covered the pot again, and let it stew for another half an hour.


    Using two smooth tree branches as chopsticks since there are no spoons or any similar utensils, she patiently waited for the delicious meal to be ready.


    Dipping compressed biscuits into the meat soup, she enjoyed a hearty meal.


    She had a fierce internal struggle between sleeping and going out. Considering the substantial resource gap for building defense turrets, she finally decided to succumb to reason and headed out to chop trees.


    Perhaps it was because she had eaten well or because she had added 0.5 strength, but she found herself even more adept at chopping trees this afternoon, effortlessly bringing down 18 trees.


    It was already 5 o''clock in the afternoon, so she didn''t push her luck.


    She began to roam around searching for large stones. However, Athena made an interesting discovery: it didn''t necessarily have to be large stones; if there were enough small stones, they could also count as a unit of stone.


    Collecting stones was much simpler than chopping trees, but it was straining on her back. Each time she had to bend down to touch the stone before she could pick it up.


    Stonesx39


    After collecting stones for an hour and a half, she had half an hour left to rush back.


    Fortunately, she made it back to the small wooden house before dark.


    Darkness is encroaching upon the world: 10, 9, 8... 0


    As darkness fell, signaling the end of the third day''s exploration, she realized she only had tomorrow to prepare before the cold wave struck.

 0008 – Water Sprite and Trading

    0008 ¨C Water Sprite and TradingA straw mat was taken out from under the bed and spread on the floor to serve as a foot cushion when getting off the bed. Two other mats were folded with good angles and placed beside the two stoves as seat cushions.


    A simple dinner of leftover meat soup from noon was eaten.


    The chat interface was opened to pass the time.


    --Tomorrow is the last day, what should we do?


    --Instead of asking around here, you''d better go to bed early and collect supplies outside tomorrow.


    --Oh no, everyone is waiting to die!


    --Those so-called big shots you talk about must have plenty to eat. Why don''t they share some with us? They''re so selfish!


    --The person above is out of their mind. If you want, why don''t you stew yourself and share with us? Consider it as saving all beings.


    --Hey, it rained heavily today! I collected a lot of mushrooms! Hahaha.


    --The person above is lucky. I haven''t seen a drop of rain here.


    --Good luck!


    Although the chat channel often discussed topics of little nutritional value, it was a good tool for passing the dark night. Athena had been eating bear meat for so long that she felt it was time for a change of taste.


    She sent a chat request to the boy who had collected mushrooms. Without waiting for the other party''s reply, she opened her trading interface.


    After scrolling up and down for a while, she still didn''t see the water she wanted.


    Indeed, water sources were still too scarce. Returning to the main trading interface, she still clicked into the water-selling transaction.


    Water 100mlPriceWe''ll sell it if the offer seems appropriateDescriptionYou can''t buy any loss, and you can''t buy anything.


    Bring your own container. Don''t worry, I live next to a river.


    It''s just 100 milliliters, no big deal!


    --> Eleven kilograms of bear meat for fifteen kilograms of water.


    Athena thought she would have to wait for a while, but she didn''t expect the person on the other side to respond immediately.


    --> Wow, a living big shot! I''ve heard of you. You''re super awesome! You completed a level 5 mission on the second day. The only one I''ve seen so far is the Lost Soul, only at level 2. I can''t beat it!


    To be honest, the other party''s excessive enthusiasm frightened Athena. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    --> You haven''t answered my question yet.-- Ah, I''m just so happy, sister, I''ve added you as a friend![ Water Sprite ] wants to be your friend,


    Yes  / No ?


    Thinking that she still had trades to discuss with the other party, and the other party controlled important water resources, Athena chose not to refuse.


    -- Okay, now we can talk about the trade.--> It''s still the same condition as before. I''ll trade 11 kilograms of bear meat for 15 kilograms of water.--> Why not 5 kilograms of bear meat for 11 kilograms of water?


    The Water Sprite''s question made Athena realize that this was definitely not a simple girl.


    --> Your water comes from the river, so you don''t need to worry about its source, but my bear meat needs to be exchanged with my life at stake. And when the cold wave comes, just drinking water won''t be enough. By then, your water may freeze and become untradeable.


    Athena didn''t show any weakness.


    -- Ah, sorry. I was too naive. But you can find so much water to trade with me, doesn''t that mean you''re also short of water. People can''t live without water. As far as I know, I''m the only one willing to trade water on the market, right?


    Athena knew it wasn''t that simple. The price she proposed was just a test, and she didn''t expect it to succeed.


    -- 11 kilograms of water for 11 kilograms of bear meat.


    --> No, forget it.


    Athena wasn''t a person who liked to deal with others. After going round and round, wasn''t it the same result? The other party didn''t expect her to interrupt her attack so directly, leaving her no face.


    -- Wow, you''re so cool. Let''s do as you say.


    Soon, the other party sent a request to Athena.


    Agree?


    The traded water was poured into the bucket full. Fortunately, she bought a large one, otherwise it wouldn''t be enough. But this time, apart from her own 100 kilograms of bear meat, all the items available for trading were used up.


    Glancing at her friend request, the boy who picked mushrooms still hadn''t agreed. She lit a fire and took out some bear meat to roast for tomorrow''s lunch. While staring at the chat interface, she didn''t forget to flip the sizzling bear meat.


    Urgent knocking sounds echoed. Athena immediately became alert. With an axe in her left hand and a candle in her right hand, she slowly approached the wooden door.


    Lost Soul, bringing you tonight''s dark message.


    It turned out to be that shape-shifting monster. She almost forgot about him.


    Since the upgrade of the sanctuary, the area within the outer fence belonged to the area protected by light. If it weren''t for the contract between the Lost Soul and Athena, he might not have been able to enter.


    Athena opened the door and saw that the guy was still in his miniature form.


    He hopped around, trying to hand the parchment in his hand to Athena, but couldn''t reach. Athena bent down and took the parchment from his hand. The parchment returned to its normal size in Athena''s hand.


    "Far away, snow is advancing in the darkness, carrying its followers¡ªthe Snowstorm Beasts."


    As soon as Athena finished reading the information on the parchment, the writing disappeared, leaving only a blank parchment. The Lost Soul below stretched out his small hand, trying to get his parchment back from Athena.


    "As an apology for leaving without notice yesterday, I''ll take this parchment from you."


    With a bang, Athena closed the door. Leaving the Lost Soul outside, stomping in anger but helpless.


    Congratulations to the player for obtaining the keyword "Snowstorm Beast"!Snowstorm BeastLevel: 1Attack5Defense3SkillCharge! 30% chance to deal double damageDescriptionThey are followers of the snow, appearing wherever the snow goes. When a cold wave comes, it brings snow, and their arrival will surely attract them.


    The first monster in the tower defense mission, they are sincere followers of the snow, suppressing evil heat sources and warmth.


    Please note that every batch of Snowstorm Beasts will appear in groups!


    The information brought by the Lost Soul was very practical, or too useful. So, another trade appeared in the trading panel.


    Selling information about the monsters of next tower defense mission.This information has been certified as valid by the system!PriceVarious living supplies, interested parties please private message


    This trade immediately exploded in the regional chat channel. This was the first time someone traded information. Before this, no one knew about this function. Everyone was incredulous, but seeing that it had been certified by the system, some began to frantically check what they had to exchange.


    Athena''s friend requests exploded, but she ignored them all. This frenzy was even more intense than when she sold bear meat last time, and no one was left out.

 0009 – Defense Turrets

    0009 ¨C Defense TurretsOpening her own trading application, Athena looked at several requests but did not immediately agree. Athena let the system automatically arrange the value list of trading applications in ascending and descending order for her.


    Adhering to the idea of ??one more person''s share of resources equals one share of resources, she basically selected everything she could use.


    By the time she finished selecting, it had been more than half an hour. She moved her sour fingers a bit and used the system''s multi-selection function for the first time, so she could send them all at once.


    Once the information exchange is completed, the other party can skip confidentiality and it''s equivalent to one-time profit. Some people plan to buy her information and then use the time difference to resell it to others.


    To avoid too much time difference, she used the multi-selection function. She couldn''t avoid such people, so she could only further reduce her own losses.


    After multi-selecting and clicking on the trade at once, her inbox instantly overflowed! Her system backpack is limited, with a total of ten slots, each slot can hold 100 units of things.


    The overflowed items began to be neatly placed in the corners of the wooden house.


    Packed full.


    34 bottles of mineral water, 42 pieces of compressed biscuits, 4 kilograms of berries, 3 kilograms of edible mushrooms, 327 units of wood, 468 units of stone, 504 units of special weeds.


    Athena couldn''t help but feel lucky that she had upgraded her wooden house in advance, otherwise there would be no place to put these things. Looking at this pile of goods like a mountain, Athena felt a sense of accomplishment.


    It seems that for a while, she can be a little girl who loves to chop wood because she likes it, rather than being forced to chop wood.


    "But if this method works, can I sell the information given in purple font in the future?"


    Warning! Please do not disclose the existence of purple font in any form!


    Hmm...


    "Then in the future, I will sell the information brought by the lost souls."


    System update complete!


    Update content: Prohibit any player from purchasing information that breaks game balance!


    Otherwise, severe punishment will be imposed!


    Well, this is blocking all my ways. But isn''t it not allowed to buy, rather than not allowed to sell?


    It seems that such a good thing will only happen once, I should have just collected all those messy things earlier.


    But those messy things not only have no place to put, but also have no use.


    Forget it, let''s sleep first.


    She has stayed up late today and is exhausted. Even in this broken place, sleeping early and waking up early is good for the body and helps her maintain her skin. And only by sleeping early at night can she have enough energy to get up early tomorrow and increase her daytime exploration time.


    The last time I got up early every day was for going to school, but one was mental torture, and the other was physical torture. Going to school must be the former.


    As Athena entered dreamland, the regional chat channel was still tirelessly discussing the system update.


    --Oh my, the system updated?!


    --Big Dream really lives up to the name, even broke through the system defense!


    --Hahaha, this operation is too brilliant!


    --What''s going on? I haven''t even bought any information yet! Whoever is willing to sell, add me! Price is negotiable.


    --Selling information! Brothers and sisters who haven''t bought information yet, come quickly, buying it is like buying a life!


    --Damn, this system!


    --It doesn''t even allow disclosing some information in advance, it''s trying to force everyone into a dead end! If there was a complaint button, it would have been reported and taken down long ago!


    The daytime has arrived, please begin exploring the world!


    Because she slept late yesterday, Athena did not wake up on time today. Yesterday''s unexpected harvest was indeed a pleasant surprise, because of these surprises, she could relax a little today.


    Calmly getting out of bed, she rekindled the fire. She cooked a mushroom and berry soup and took a sip.


    "The savory aroma of mushrooms mixed with the sweetness of berries, it''s truly..."


    "...nothing special."


    Athena grabbed her hair a couple of times and tied it up with a rubber band. With an axe in hand, she prepared to start today''s exploration. Today, she wouldn''t chop wood; instead, she would explore this forest properly.


    Walking into the courtyard, she took out two blueprints for defensive turrets. Placing them where they were to be built, to the far left and far right of the small wooden house.


    Construction conditions met, do you want to build defensive turrets?


    Yes / No ?


    "Yes"


    A familiar white light flashed, and two turret-like structures appeared in the courtyard. Their pitch-black color scheme, reflective metal shells, and long barrels facing outward gave them a daunting presence.


    Athena reached out and touched them, feeling their sturdiness. Even someone like her, who wasn''t a military enthusiast, was captivated. If those military fans saw them, wouldn''t they go crazy on the spot?


    "Alright, from now on, you''ll be my guardians on the left and right!"


    Carrying her large axe, she headed outside. While other girls wielded weapons like whips or swords, she carried an axe every day.


    The deeper she went into the woods, the more she felt that something was wrong here. In such a vast forest, it was eerily quiet.


    Occasionally, only the sound of the cold wind blowing through the leaves could be heard, which was particularly harsh in this silent forest. If it weren''t for encountering other fierce beasts, it was because there used to be a dominant long-tailed bear here, which Athena had killed. However, the absence of any birds or other animals seemed very strange. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Today, going inwards was also about testing her luck because a fellow had said he caught a rabbit before.


    But obviously, it didn''t apply in a forest like Athena''s.


    Continuing on for another 100 meters, the color of the trees and tree trunks around her gradually darkened, and the patterns on them began to look eerie, like human faces. The dense foliage gradually blocked the sunlight from coming in, making it darker inside.


    Athena finally stopped at the boundary between light and darkness, choosing not to venture further inside. She felt that her exploration was already thorough enough, and the place further inside was not something she could enter now.


    Undeveloped area: Black Forest!The Black Forest is a forbidden area for many creatures, teeming with various beasts. The creatures inside worship darkness and generally do not step into daylight.


    While they don''t interfere with each other, they are not easy to provoke.


    Do you want to enter and battle them, with a 1% chance of survival?


    Yes / No ?


    Athena stared at the dark forest ahead and retreated, feeling uneasy with every glance inside.


    She chose to go left and explore further.


    To her surprise, she saw a familiar plant here.

 0010 – Purple Dream Buds

    0010 ¨C Purple Dream BudsCongratulations on discovering the keyword "Purple Dream Buds"![ Purple Dream Buds ]CategoryOrnamental Plants [?]Level1Attack1Defense5SkillDream InvasionReminder: Despite its beauty, please avoid being scratched by it. If scratched, your wound will emit black blood.


    Successful activation of the Dream Invasion skill increases the likelihood of entering its dream, with an 80% chance of not waking up!


    ...A plant that can dream?


    Suddenly, this world feels both absurd and fantastical. By all reasoning, many people, upon learning of its danger, would steer clear of it.


    But Athena chose to defy convention.


    She took out a worn bear fur from her spatial backpack, which she had never used before. Though this thing was worn out, using it to wrap her hand to pick a few flowers seemed like a waste.


    Yes, Athena planned to plant these flowers in her own backyard.


    After wrapping her hand with the bear fur, she carefully pulled out the purple dream buds without disturbing them, exerting some extra force.


    The flowers were pulled out, but the roots were left in the soil.


    "Mistake."


    Unwilling to accept failure, she pulled out several more plants, finally succeeding in harvesting five purple dream buds. She cautiously wrapped them in the worn bear fur and threw them into the system backpack.


    With this harvest, this trip was not in vain. Full of anticipation, she continued walking to the left.


    To no avail. Except for trees and grass, there was not even a single insect. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Shivering, even though the sun was high in the sky, at the peak of noon. Athena felt the surrounding air getting colder, knowing that it might not be just her imagination, as tonight was already the fifth day. The onset of a cold wave was imminent.


    After confirming she couldn''t find anything else worthwhile, she decided to head to the patch of grass she had cleared earlier. Since she was already out, she decided to enjoy the sunshine and have a picnic for the remaining half of the day.


    But things don''t always go as planned.


    Refreshed white package, 700 meters ahead.


    Comparing the direction, wasn''t that where she was heading for the picnic? Why did one place get refreshed twice, and now three times?


    Nevertheless, she was quite pleased; it saved her from running around. She didn''t mind the extra packages; she felt she owed the system yesterday, and here was a new package today. However, as she joyfully ran forward, goosebumps erupted all over her body.


    My sixth sense tells me not to go any further.


    Even when facing other monsters, she didn''t have this feeling. The only thing that could give her goosebumps all over her body was a snake.


    Even standing 400 meters away, she could see the distant black-skinned snake. Estimated to be 2 meters long and as thick as an arm.


    At this moment, it was coiled around a stump left by a tree knocked down by a bear.


    Athena was dumbfounded.


    What did she see? A large, thick snake. She''d rather be blind.


    The joy of receiving packages vanished completely. Turning around, she decided to go back to her little cabin to plant flowers, at least flowers were pleasing to the eye.


    In the white package, there are tools: a hoe and a sickle.


    These two things were much needed for Athena. With a hoe, she wouldn''t have to dig with an axe every time. But Athena was determined to leave, without even looking back.


    Perhaps the sound of her moving through the grass startled the giant snake in the distance. It began to crawl towards her.


    Athena watched as the enormous snake slithered towards her. The notification sound was triggered due to the shortened distance.


    Black Phosphorus SnakeLevel2Strength4Defense6SkillConstrictionA juvenile black phosphorus snake. Once it wraps around you, it''s extremely difficult to break free, with very low water resistance.


    She raised the axe and swung it fiercely at a nearby tree, instantly leaving a deep crack in it, causing the entire tree to tremble and sway.


    Athena didn''t even know how much force she had used.


    At this moment, her heart was filled with anger, and her beautiful eyes were full of extreme disgust and fury. Gritting her teeth, she muttered, "Get lost!"


    The python was startled by her tree-chopping action and didn''t advance further.


    Then, this human took out a piece of bear fur. The scent emanating from it made it clear to the python that the original owner of this fur was much higher in level than itself.


    Sensibly, it retreated.


    With a cold expression, Athena returned to her little cabin. The feeling of repulsion and goosebumps all over her body gradually subsided.


    But the thought of that snake, that soft-bodied creature, slithering on the ground, sleek and slippery, like a super-sized insect, made her feel extremely uncomfortable.


    "I''m just too unlucky. Why does every package refresh bring monsters!"


    "Any monster is better than a snake. I''m so disgusted! My goodness, it was getting closer to me just now..."


    "Ah!!"


    Athena didn''t have anything particularly loathsome, but snakes were one of those things. Every time she saw one, it made her feel extremely uncomfortable. This was definitely a physiological aversion. Just thinking about the scene from earlier made her feel furious.


    But if one asked her to go up and fight that snake for 300 rounds and chop it up, considering the possibility of touching the creature, her anger and disgust had already clouded her mind.


    She definitely needed the white package; the items inside could really help her solve many problems.


    Each package lasted for 12 hours. Tonight, she planned to ask the lost soul to help her see if she could drag the package over. She really didn''t want to get close to that creature. Thinking about the package being crawled over by the snake multiple times, or even played with by the creature...


    If it didn''t work out, forget it. When the cold wave came, the creature should hibernate. Or if the package disappeared, would it disappear with it?


    To be honest, she didn''t know, after all, she had killed the bear directly last time. And at that time, she didn''t know that the package refresh was caused by monsters.


    Athena lay on the grass mat in the cabin, soothing her ''injured soul'' in silence. She washed her eyes with clean water, as if by doing so, she hadn''t seen the snake at all. Then, she lifted the axe and prepared to plant the flowers in the yard. Still placing the tip of the axe downward, she stomped hard with her foot and then used her hand to dig a small hole.


    She repeated this process five times at the gate of the courtyard, obtaining five small holes at the entrance.


    Wrapping the purple dream buds in the bear fur, she buried them in the holes with soil.


    It was a rough technique, but she believed that with the extraordinary vitality of these strange flowers, they wouldn''t be killed by her simple methods.


    A shallow defense measure was done.


    Yes, it was the idea that occurred to her when she saw these flowers. Originally planned for this afternoon, but she had no intention of going out now, so she decided to do it now.


    These past two days of cold waves, she planned to stay in the wooden cabin to keep warm. With abundant resources, she could occasionally look at the snow scene from the window, sleep a few more sleeps, chat in the chat channels.


    How wonderful.


    If things went smoothly, she could catch the lost souls and chat with them every day.


    Patting her left and right helpers, she returned to her little cabin, ready to take a nap in the afternoon.


    Your ''Special Attention'' friend, [ Big Bear ], sent a trade request.


    When Athena saw this message in the afternoon, she remembered setting this person as a ''special attention'' to not miss any trades.


    -- Sorry for keeping you waiting for so long. I encountered some things on the way[ Trade Request ]160 units of wood for 80 kilograms of bear meat.

 0011 – Low Temperature

    0011 ¨C Low TemperatureOriginally it was a mutually beneficial transaction, so there''s no need for apologies, and this girl even has some manners.


    Athena Ravencroft found herself in a dilemma as she looked at the trade requests on the chat interface. There was just too much stuff, nowhere to pile it up.


    Walking out into the small courtyard, she finally clicked to agree to the trade.


    Rows of neatly stacked wooden blocks were now piled in the courtyard. She went back inside to continue tending the fire. Her private messages in the regional channel were exploding.


    The afternoon temperature had dropped from the tens at noon to single digits, probably around 5 or 7 degrees now.


    The sudden drop in temperature made many people start to feel uneasy; the temperature would only continue to decrease. If the temperature kept dropping at this rate without encountering any monsters, many people would freeze to death first.


    -- Big Dream Boss, I''m still short on some wooden blocks. I have some stones here, would you consider trading?


    -- Boss! Please, I beg you, be merciful and give me some food!


    -- Why did the trade for bear meat stop? Can''t we trade for some more?


    By now, everyone had some supplies on hand, more or less. Everyone was doing their utmost to gather enough resources to upgrade the shelter and survive this cold wave. However, Athena chose not to participate in this trade.


    Her supplies were already saturated. She didn''t intend to touch any of the remaining resources. The system had never been reassuring; who knows if there might be other variables.


    It''s better to be cautious. But leaving those wooden blocks outside, would they get damp?


    ...Maybe it''s better to sell them off.


    Looking at the packed little cabin, Athena felt she could also take advantage of the situation. She decided to post a trade on the trading interface.


    [ Selling Wooden Blocks ]PriceAccepting all kinds of blueprints, tools, and things to pass the time.DescriptionIf you want to survive the cold wave, you need to make a fire. Making a fire requires wood, and upgrading the shelter also requires wood. Limited to 80 units, first come, first served.


    Exchanging wood for rare tools and blueprints was very uneconomical, but in reality, this was a profiteering trade. The trade had just been posted, and someone already approached, but Athena wasn''t in a hurry anyway.


    Since she wasn''t in a hurry, she''d leave these people hanging for a while.


    The chat channel became even more lively. Taking advantage of the panic and fear caused by the impending cold wave, some people began to form alliances.


    This was the right choice because when a person couldn''t survive alone, joining a group could still provide a glimmer of hope.


    -- Among the blueprints I obtained when opening packages, there''s a special reward to create a chat group. Since everyone''s having a hard time, let''s gather together. Those who want to join the group can add me.


    -- I can testify for Lord Ask-the-Heavens. I''m already in the group. Friends in the group can help each other; it''s not difficult to survive this crisis.


    -- Is that true? We can create a group chat?


    -- Yes, just like me and the person above. Hurry up and join, no conditions!


    -- I want in, I want in, save me a spot!


    -- I want in, and no one should compete with me!


    -- What they said is true. Lord Ask-the-Heavens gave me the remaining 13 wooden blocks. I''ve successfully upgraded my shelter!


    Athena felt somewhat surprised; forming alliances was normal. But she didn''t expect this guy to have such strange rewards, even creating a group chat. No conditions? Was this guy, Ask-the-Heavens, really so kind-hearted?


    She looked at the flood of requests to join without any ripple in her heart. Perhaps there were no conditions now, but even harvesting cabbage required waiting for it to grow, didn''t it?


    The temperature was getting lower and lower, and even indoors, Athena started to feel cold. She walked to another stove and lit it the same way as the first one.


    Lighting both stoves simultaneously consumed a lot of resources, which was a very extravagant behavior. But she couldn''t help it; she was now a little rich woman.


    Instantly, the room felt much warmer. The sky outside began to dim, and darkness was about to fall again. Athena stared at her watch, watching the seconds tick by, and it struck 7 o''clock.


    7 o''clock had arrived, but something was missing. That was the reminder sound that would ring every night before the darkness came.


    She knew it wouldn''t be that simple.


    Outside, the wind howled, and cold gusts blew one after another. But other than that, there were no other anomalies. Opening the chat channel, everyone''s thoughts were basically the same as Athena''s.


    -- What''s going on?


    -- Why does the wind keep blowing? It shouldn''t be like this. If it were that simple, would it be necessary?


    -- Haven''t you guys noticed? There was no warning of darkness approaching today. So, is it still considered night now?


    -- Something''s wrong, really wrong.


    -- What''s wrong? Isn''t it cold enough already? What else do you want? The thatch on my house has been blown away!


    -- Forget it, we''re all dead anyway. Since it didn''t warn us about darkness coming, I''ll just go out and chop down some more trees. I''m just a few short of upgrading!


    -- Brother above, remember to come back safely!


    Athena lazily scrolled through these messages while constantly turning over the grilled meat and mushrooms. Both fires were lit, so there was no need to waste them. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tonight''s meal was more abundant; she sat by the left fire, roasting mushrooms and meat. On the other side, a soup was simmering on the fire, occasionally throwing a berry into her mouth. It made her feel like she was back at home, snacking and scrolling on her phone.


    Watching the brave person''s remarks, she deeply admired them.


    --> Keep going, come back alive.


    -- Wow, so many big shots are active today!


    -- It''s Big Dream! Chatting here in the chat channel, don''t you care about your trading interface?!


    Reminded by someone, Athena also felt it was about time. It was enough; it would be too much to keep these people hanging any longer.


    She opened her trading interface. Watching the howling wind outside, the reason she hadn''t been paying attention to the trading interface was simply because she didn''t want to go out.


    Holding a bright candle in her hand, she still opened her small wooden door.


    A gust of cold wind blew into her clothes. She already only had a pair of worn-out grass shoes, feeling like her feet were about to freeze off.


    She hopped over to the wooden blocks, touching them with her hand while frantically pressing the agree button for the trade.


    Without even bothering to see what she had agreed to, she hugged a bunch of miscellaneous items, just wanting to hurry back to the fire. As she turned her head, she noticed a strange figure resembling a doll lingering at her courtyard gate.


    Lost soul had been shouting outside for a long time, but no one answered him.


    This human didn''t know where she had dug up this broken flower from. Lost soul was too scared to come in directly and the human just planted it at the door, which made him too scared to enter.


    He wanted to go back, but thinking about the seriousness of breaking the agreement, he could only wait here, finally catching someone''s attention.


    When all the wooden blocks in the courtyard were traded away, Athena went straight back into the cabin without even glancing at him, leaving him alone in the wind.


    Sitting back on the grass mat, she rubbed her hands, gulped down a mouthful of hot soup, feeling alive again.


    "Strange, I wonder where that black, ugly ball came from."


    "Is there even such a thing as dark ball in this world?"


    After careful thought, it seemed like that thing was the lost soul.

 0012 – Dwindling Numbers

    0012 ¨C Dwindling NumbersAthena felt somewhat regretful, took a hearty bite of grilled meat, and wrapped her clothes tightly around herself. Then, she dashed out with the fastest speed.


    Standing by the fence, she began to shout for the lost soul.


    "Aren''t you going to shout?"


    The lost soul dared not speak.


    Stretching out her arm, she handed the axe to the lost soul, gesturing to put the parchment on it.


    He looked somewhat distressed as he watched the parchment in his hand, obediently placing it on the axe, knowing that he wouldn''t get this parchment back again.


    He was going bankrupt sooner or later.


    Just as he was about to leave, something half his height fell from the sky.


    "Thanks, I''ll treat you to grilled mushrooms."


    After saying this, Athena hurriedly walked away.


    The lost soul stood there blankly, holding the still warm grilled mushrooms.


    Why can''t it change itself back? What can it do at a height of 10 centimeters?


    Skillfully, she opened the parchment.


    "Changes have occurred amidst the snowstorm, the impending darkness has been obstructed."


    With just this sentence, Athena felt like her CPU was overheating inexplicably.


    Feeling that it was something important, even though she couldn''t understand it, didn''t stop her from using charred wood as charcoal to record every piece of information on the slate.


    She would have to figure out a way to get some paper and pens later. Without dwelling on things she couldn''t currently access, she chose to first check the items she had just obtained.


    One axe, four sickles.


    There were also three blueprints, none of which were particularly useful, all sorts of weird things. They were all furniture construction blueprints, namely a recliner, a table, and a shelf, plus one that was completely covered in scribbles?


    She thought the recliner was a decent item, but after glancing at the cluttered room, she decided against it, opting to use it in a few days.


    [ ??? ]Level???DescriptionIt can be something ordinary, or it can be something very precious.SummaryThis is a blind box, may the goddess of luck favor you.


    The moment she saw the introduction of this thing, Athena knew it wasn''t suitable for herself, but she immediately thought of someone else. She felt that that person would definitely be interested, but deciding how much to offer was quite a challenge for her. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Touching the other axe she had acquired, Athena had an unrealistic idea,


    Dual axes felt similar to dual knives or dual swords, all pretty cool. She actually tried wielding both axes, but the result was somewhat clumsy, almost injuring herself.


    She didn''t have that talent.


    "I''d better just stick to using one axe."


    She packed all these dangerous items into her backpack.


    From now on, she planned to enjoy her food properly. Tonight, she planned to stay up until midnight.


    As she ate, she remembered something, what was it that she wanted the lost soul to do? If she couldn''t recall, then it probably wasn''t important.


    The fierce wind outside suddenly stopped, the howling wind disappeared, and only the crackling sound of the fire burning inside could be heard.


    Midnight.


    Darkness is encroaching upon the world, 10, 9, 8... 0!!!Extreme cold wave approaching!


    The system interface turned bright red, warnings filling the screen.


    In the coming days, the birth points will no longer randomly refresh parcels! Enter into a state of preparedness!Due to uncontrollable factors, the temperature will drop rapidly during this cold wave!Due to uncontrollable factors, accompanied by the wind and snow, a very small number of Snowstorm Beasts have arrived early. Players, please prepare for defense!Due to uncontrollable factors, the game difficulty has significantly increased! Subsidies are being distributed, please check your emails, players!


    Snowstorm Beasts Rampage!


    Snowstorm BeastLevel1Attack5Defense3SkillCharge! 30% chance to deal double damage.DescriptionThey are followers of the wind and snow, wherever the wind and snow pass, their figures will be present. The arrival of the cold wave will bring wind and snow, and their arrival is certain.


    Due to the system''s reminder, the information about snowstorm beasts was officially announced to everyone.


    Unexpected changes exceeded everyone''s expectations. The sudden significant increase in game difficulty was likely related to the delayed arrival of the darkness. If following the normal game plot, then in a few days, players who survive the cold wave will be selected among those more suitable for survival in the game.


    The system will also issue rewards, once again boosting the overall strength of players. This way, when the first wave of monsters attacks, the strength disparity between players and monsters won''t be too extreme, and the game won''t have a predetermined fatal ending.


    Who would have known that the duration of the current cold wave has become longer and colder, with even a small portion of the monsters that were originally supposed to arrive on the 7th day coming early.


    However, due to uncontrollable factors, the difficulty of survival this time has exceeded the expectations of many people. This includes the system as well, prompting the system to issue temporary subsidies.


    Temporary SubsidyPieces of woodx15Special weedsx15Bottles of Mineral Waterx5Packs of Compressed Biscuitsx3Long Knifex1


    This temporary subsidy is quite generous, even enhancing everything from construction to food to attack methods. Many people who were just a step away from upgrading their shelters succeeded in upgrading them due to the temporary subsidy.


    But it''s precisely because of the abundant subsidies that more people are feeling anxious.


    Profit often comes proportionately with risk.AN: I cannot agree more


    The wind, which had stopped, began to howl once again, accompanied by thunder and lightning. Pea-sized raindrops started to fall, and torrential rain washed over the land.


    Athena stood by the window, using a small wooden board to cover most of it, leaving only a small corner to peek outside. Soon, the heavy rain subsided, and the weather outside changed once again.


    Quail egg-sized hailstones fell from the sky, relentlessly hammering the roof. Inside the house, Athena could hear the intense impact clearly.


    When she confirmed that the wooden house reinforced by the system wasn''t as fragile as she feared, she breathed a sigh of relief.


    She had truly been afraid that the hail would break through the wooden house. The sound was genuinely frightening.


    Before she or anyone else could relax, the snowstorm arrived.


    The swirling snow engulfed the world, obscuring everything within sight, making it impossible to see into the distance. Before long, a thick layer of snow would cover the ground, making it difficult to move even an inch.


    The cold wind blew in through the open corner of the window, carrying snowflakes with it, bringing a chilling coldness.


    Athena stepped back, distancing herself from the window, but she didn''t intend to close it completely.


    [ Regional Chat Channel ]


    7003/10000


    Watching the fluctuating number of survivors and more than 600 had died, many people expressed their emotions.


    -- Thank goodness for upgrading the shelter, otherwise, we would have died here today.


    -- People are dying again. How many of us are going to die...


    -- Are there any brothers and sisters from the thatched cottages who have survived? I hid in a corner and built a small room with wood, barely surviving.


    -- The ones upstairs have it all figured out; this belongs to self-processing.


    -- Are people really that indifferent? Doesn''t anyone care that the parcels haven''t been refreshed in the past few days? Where am I supposed to get food from?


    -- This environment is too harsh. We can''t even go out. Our supplies are insufficient. I don''t want to die here!


    -- I haven''t even seen those snowstorm beasts yet!

 0013 – Experience Points

    0013 ¨C Experience PointsEven if others didn''t have the reminder of the monster''s weakness in purple font, smart people can always guess information that others don''t know. Those who got information from Athena in advance might have prepared a way to deal with the Snowstorm Beasts, increasing their chances of survival by being one step ahead.


    But setting up a heat source in a place covered by snow and wind is extremely difficult. Athena was still relatively calm, after all, she had absolute firepower suppression. But she probably wouldn''t get much sleep tonight.


    Bang!


    Amidst the howling wind and snow outside came an exceptionally abrupt explosion.


    Defense turret successfully eliminates a Snowstorm Beast!Experience +1Unlock experience function, every 100 points of experience can be exchanged for one attribute point! Details can be viewed in the personal attribute panel


    At the moment of the explosion, Athena hurriedly closed the window on her side and opened a crack in the door. The vast expanse of snow covered people''s sight with goose feather-sized snowflakes. But one could still see a blackened pit left behind in the distance after the bombardment.


    However, there was nothing in the pit.


    Outside the pit were two vaguely visible white figures. About a meter tall, their bodies concealed in white fur, only revealing a pair of dark eyes and two purple antennae on their heads. It''s the Snowstorm Beasts!


    It''s hard to say whether it''s because the defense turret''s attack power is too fierce or the Snowstorm Beasts are too fragile. But it probably isn''t because the Snowstorm Beasts are fragile, after all, bullets can be considered a heat source, and this time it''s truly hitting the nail on the head.


    The two Snowstorm Beasts were somewhat hesitant and didn''t dare to come forward, showing some intelligence. Knowing their limitations, they stood still and hesitated, unwilling to advance.


    Have these guys given up?


    Athena looked at their confused behavior, but she could also understand. After all, in this situation of being killed instantly, coming forward would be suicide.


    The two Snowstorm Beasts became restless, then calm again. Their eyes turned blood red, covering the black color, and the two purple antennae on their heads began to touch each other.


    Where the two antennae touched, light began to emanate!


    Athena felt like she had seen this kind of situation somewhere before.


    No way!


    These guys aren''t afraid, they''re passing on information to call in more companions. Athena didn''t intend to wait for them to come into attack range on their own. With a candle in one hand and an axe in the other, she opened the door and rushed out into the falling snow.


    There were two fence gates in the courtyard. One was intentionally opened by her, with purple flower buds planted by her. It''s better for those guys to come in through this gate than to destroy the fence. The other gate was the one Athena had just opened and rushed out from.


    The two monsters had no intention of stopping transmitting information, so they stood still dumbly in place, even as Athena approached. Athena went up and gave each one a fatal blow with an axe.


    You successfully eliminated two Snowstorm Beasts! Experience +2


    As the experience points were gained, the bodies of the two Snowstorm Beasts disappeared into the air like melting snowflakes.


    She didn''t know if these two guys had managed to transmit the information, but she knew she had to prepare for the worst.


    Successfully triggered a low probability event: Snowstorm Beast''s summoning!The information of the Snowstorm Beasts has been received. The player''s birthplace will be a place of special concern for the Snowstorm Beasts, greatly increasing the probability of monster spawns!


    Walking back through the thick snow, her feet sinking into the snow with each step, she made her way back step by step.


    Before entering the house, she brushed off the accumulated snow on her body. As soon as she entered the house, the snow on her body instantly melted, dampening her pajamas. She sat by the fire, trying to warm her frozen feet. Just a short walk outside and her feet were already completely red from the cold.


    She had thought she could easily withstand this monster attack with her high combat power. But it had backfired, attracting even more monsters.


    Even though her combat power far exceeded that of the monsters, the Snowstorm Beasts were inherently group monsters, and she knew the principle that many ants could kill an elephant.


    She was destined not to be able to stay in the house and pass the night safely.


    She pulled out the last straw mat from under the bed, took the vine she had used for binding before, and cut two holes with a sickle, threading it through to make a crude cloak. Then she cut out a section of the grass mat she had been sitting on the ground, forming a cone shape, cutting out several small holes to secure it with vines, forming a crude hat.


    "System! I want to sell my three sickles!"


    If she was right, then these early-arriving monsters might very well be summoning many more Snowstorm Beasts to her home. Moreover, on the seventh day, the first wave of monsters attacking would be the real challenge!


    Do you want to sell the sickles?


    Yes / No ?


    "Yes!"


    Congratulations on receiving 30 copper coins! S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    All equipment that could be used for heating was no longer available for sale, including the flame enhancer she had previously purchased. Even thinking about buying another pair of grass shoes now was impossible.


    She bought ten plastic bags for 10 copper coins and a bottle of oil for 20 copper coins.


    Now the worst-case scenario was that she would be surrounded by Snowstorm Beasts, and those guys would choose to attack her directly.


    As long as she stood in the courtyard, the courtyard fence would probably not be the main target of attack. When they reached the courtyard, they would be subjected to the first round of attacks from the two defense turrets.


    When they entered from the deliberately opened fence gate by Athena, they would be scratched by the purple dream buds to form a second attack. And Athena would stand in the courtyard, bringing the third round of attacks to these lucky invaders who successfully entered her home.


    Fighting in the snow was a big challenge for warmth, but now these were the only solutions she could think of. If she couldn''t buy shoes, then she would have to find a way to keep her feet warm.


    She scraped some burnt wood ash from the fire with a sickle and poured them into two plastic bags stacked together. She put her feet in the plastic bags, wore the grass shoes, and filled the remaining space with wood ash. In total, she used four plastic bags. Considering possible wear and tear later, she bought ten.


    She hadn''t expected herself, someone with such poor craftsmanship, to end up doing manual work here. She dragged a grass mat to the door, leaving only a narrow gap, and sat quietly at the door, waiting for the invaders.


    After that, she encountered six more monsters. Unfortunately, none of these five monsters could get close to her. Five purple dream buds waved their leaves, clearing the snow around themselves. The only one that rushed over was also injured and bleeding black blood after being cut.


    It stood in place in the dream and eventually dissipated. But after one of them dissipated, it left behind a white package.


    Experience +6There is a 30% chance of dropping a package when killing a Snowstorm Beast!


    Athena brought the package over.


    Inside, there is a bag of potato chips.


    It wasn''t something very useful, but it was a great comfort to the soul.


    Tonight she had encountered two waves of Snowstorm Beasts, far exceeding the few the system had mentioned before. Confirming that these refreshed monsters were not so easily broken through the first two lines of defense, she spent the night like this on the grass mat.


    Daylight has come, please begin exploring the world!


    The arrival of daylight caused the snowstorm to gradually diminish, and the thick layer of snow began to melt.

 0014 – ???

    0014 ¨C ???"Ahmn~" After sleeping until lunchtime, the fire in the stove had long since extinguished, leaving only a bit of residual warmth.


    Extinguishing the candle of light.


    Not bothering with anything fancy, just eating some berries washed yesterday and drinking some leftover meat soup. Watching the roasted meat and mushrooms on the fire.


    Those who aren''t strong enough don''t deserve to enjoy life.


    Sure, my idea that only those who are strong deserve to enjoy life can be quite a harsh perspective and may not accurately reflect the complexities of life and human experience but that''s not the case in times of crises, right?


    Opening the chat interface, the atmosphere inside was much better than Athena had imagined. Different from the widespread sorrow last night, where everyone thought they were close to death, today''s chat messages were noticeably more cheerful.


    -- I encountered a Snowstorm Beast yesterday and just charged up with a long knife and hacked it seven or eight times, and it died!


    -- Me too, but I encountered it twice and gained +2 experience.


    -- Getting 100 experience points allows you to increase one attribute!


    -- I only found out yesterday that attributes can still be improved. After coming here, mine dropped by zero point something!"


    Everyone was discussing what happened last night. Most people encountered only one or two monsters, with only a very few encountering three. And no one had triggered the Snowstorm Beast''s summoning event like Athena did.


    -- Why are you all so happy? So many people died last night!


    -- With these monsters, I can kill a few more times. I only killed two yesterday and got a white package!


    -- It''s not like people haven''t died on the first day. Making a fuss over nothing. I even think that yesterday''s death toll was relatively low!


    --  You guys, you''re not human! What''s wrong with helping each other? Just because you''ve upgraded your shelter, why do you feel superior? Do you know how I survived yesterday?!


    -- It turns out that people who haven''t upgraded their shelter also survived, I thought everyone was dead. After so many days and the temporary subsidies provided by the system, if you haven''t upgraded, shouldn''t you reflect on what you''ve been doing these days?"


    The chat area wasn''t all joy and harmony. There was fear, anger, excitement, and happiness, all kinds of emotions. This is the beauty of humanity, both possess kindness and lack of empathy.


    -- Ladies and gentlemen, I have an announcement to make, the death toll of our team last night was zero! This fully demonstrates the strength of our team, once again welcome all capable players to join us!


    -- Look at me, Lord Ask-the-Heavens, I applied but you didn''t agree.


    -- Is it true or not, I remember their team was quite big?


    -- Tch, who would share their hard-earned resources with others, a bunch of brainless people gathering together!


    -- I''m about to starve, does anyone have extra food, I can exchange with anything!


    It was indeed a good publicity effect for Ask-the-Heavens''s team to have no casualties. If what they said was true, that their resources could be shared, and everyone upgraded their shelter, then it''s not surprising.


    As long as you''re not as unlucky as me, triggering some weird things, it''s not difficult to get through yesterday. In extreme weather like this, the scariest part is often not the beginning. But as time goes on, people can''t endure it anymore, and the matched resources become increasingly insufficient.


    Only in the later stages can the difference be distinguished.


    Athena just tried with a sickle, and the snow outside was now half a sickle deep.


    Even if the sun is out now, it''s still around minus eleven or twelve degrees Celsius.


    And inside the house, it''s about minus seven or eight degrees, this situation will worsen when darkness falls at night. Lighting the fire will make it much better. She only made one fire during the day today.


    --> Be careful, don''t let that "guys''" purplish horns touch each other to summon their companionsProviding useful information reputation +10-- What does ''Boss Big Dream'' mean? Can these "guys" summon companions?


    -- I was just talking casually earlier. I can''t handle it if too many "guys" come!


    -- Thanks, boss! We understand what you meant. For such important information, being able to share it for free is amazing!


    She only hoped that doing so would not result in too many deaths. Even before the first round of the game officially began, 3000 players had already died. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The system''s decision to divide players from Earth into zones must have its significance. Who knows if there will be territorial battles later. Although she didn''t think that many people could trigger such a situation, she considered it an increase in her reputation.


    Ask-the-Heavens asks to add you as a friend


    Yes / No ?


    "...Yes," Athena had been thinking all along when this guy would come to find her, and now he had arrived. If his goal was to gather top players together, then he would definitely come to her.


    -- Hello, I''m Ask-the-Heavens. I believe you must have heard of me.


    --> No


    Athena could imagine how colorful the opposite party''s expression was.


    -- It''s okay, I''ve heard of you.


    --> I never thought I''d be so famous. It''s an honor for you to know me.


    -- You''re really funny. Humorous people often don''t have bad luck.


    --> Now I think you can introduce yourself. I''m Big Dream.


    -- I''m Ask-the-Heavens. I''ve created a group and I hope you can join.


    --> My reputation speaks for itselfThis is not chess, okay?/modern_footnote]. I usually share any information I have in the regional chat channel and always encourage everyone.


    -- Joining our team can help you get information more effectively. We also prioritize exchanging scarce supplies within the team.


    Indeed, it was a good offer.


    --> Sorry, you should know I won''t join.


    It was said to be a group, but it was actually a subordinate organization centered around Ask-the-Heavens. Whether it adopts a democratic system or not, it''s all superficial. Probably it was a sort of Ponzi scheme where only those at the top benefit and those at the lower end work hard for little gain.


    As much as I want to survive, I don''t want to if it comes at the expense of others and this guy was too suspicious to be honest.


    -- Okay, I understand. Perhaps we can make another deal. In the future, you can choose to trade the information you obtain with me first, and I can offer you a price far beyond others.


    I see, why can''t people just get straight to the point from the beginning?


    --> Okay...


    Selling one''s information to some small fry is not as good as selling it directly to a powerful group.


    A 30% drop rate for items isn''t low, which means every monster has a 1/3 chance of dropping items. What''s more important is that the system doesn''t specify the color of the dropped items.


    So when Athena opened the trading panel, she saw the lively scene of the first trading panel ever. There were some good things among them.


    TradeDefense Tower Blueprint (Basic)PriceLots of food and water, plus some building materials.DescriptionJust by looking at the name, you know what quality this is. Don''t try to fool me with those junk. For those who don''t understand, click on it to see the detailed information yourself.[ Detailed Information ]Mineral WaterPriceYou decide, I don''t know what I want.DescriptionI''ve opened a whole box of mineral water, I''m super lucky!. Iron Ore  x1PriceThose who can use it can exchange it for other items of the same quality!DescriptionVery rare, I can guarantee its rarity in the early stage. Leftover Apple Cores x13PriceNot for trade.DescriptionI just put it up for fun. You guys are really hungry, even want this. If you''re not disgusted, I am.


    Moreover, Athena also found that some players had started using currency for trading, no longer just bartering. The monetary system had begun to move beyond the system''s mall. But this situation wasn''t obvious yet, only with time would the monetary system become the ultimate form of trading.


    She scrolled up and saw something she was very interested in.


    Air Wall x10PriceThis is for showing off.DescriptionJealous, huh? I''ll make you jealous! The Air Wall is a very practical thing, it can obstruct the movement routes of monsters. If used well, it can prolong the time monsters take to travel and make it easier to attack and defend.


    Unfortunately, this guy didn''t intend to sell it. He knew it was useful himself.


    In the end, Athena chose to send trade requests to the sellers of iron ore and defense tower blueprint.

 0015 – Daytime Appearance

    0015 ¨C Daytime AppearanceThese two things, if acquired early on, would be the best. She believes that in the later stages, these things will only become more expensive.


    -- I know you. I want 200 kilograms of bear meat, 300 units of wood blocks, and 300 units of special weeds to trade the blueprint for the defense fire tower with you! No bargaining, don''t bother!


    "This guy is crazy! That''s more than half of level 5 bear! Not to mention those outrageous 600+ items! No one can collect that many!"


    Facing such an unimaginable demand, Athena couldn''t be bothered to negotiate and directly switched to chatting with the iron ore seller.


    --> How many iron ore do you have?


    -- I have a total of 5 blocks. If you want them all, I can give you a discount.


    --> What''s your expected price? You have to give me a reference.


    -- This thing is useless in the early stages, and it''s uncertain when it will be useful. The price is also inflated. I want 5 kilograms of meat for each block! I don''t need anything else.


    --> How about 3 kilograms of bear meat per block?


    --Deal!


    The deal was quickly confirmed, and Athena traded away 15 kilograms of bear meat with a smile on her face.


    Iron OreCategoryOreDescriptionThis thing is rare in the early stages. You can use it to craft some things, like a core weapon.Iron ore needs to be smelted in a smelting furnace and can be unlocked for crafting in the system mall. Please obtain the blueprint for the smelting furnace first.


    It was still a decent harvest, although her stock decreased a bit. However, it was still more than enough to get through this period.


    It''s a pity she didn''t see torches or similar items. If there were any, she would definitely buy them, except for that defense tower blueprint. The defense fire tower is just a blueprint; building materials still need to be collected.


    After upgrading the shelter, most people don''t have many building materials left, not to mention 300 wood blocks and 300 special weeds. It''s even harder to go out and get building materials in this icy wasteland.


    Even if you get the blueprint, you might not be able to build it. Most likely, it can only be left aside for display.


    Even if it is built, under the current circumstances, it''s not worth the price. If some more packages were to refresh... It would be best if they were blue or higher, then the problem wouldn''t be a problem anymore.


    Unfortunately, to avoid overlapping monster drop rates with package drop rates, the system closed one early on.


    If I remember correctly, I should still have a "???" mystery package.


    Should I sell it to [ Big Bear ] as a favor, or should I just put it on the exchange?


    Forget it, putting it on the exchange might not necessarily be more profitable than selling it to [ Big Bear ]. Such luck-testing things might not necessarily yield anything.


    Among her current friends, [ Big Bear ] is known to have the best luck.


    --> I have something that I believe you''ll be interested in.Player [ Big Dream ] initiated item information sharing "???".--> If you see my message, maybe we can discuss its price.


    Not long after, [ Big Bear ] sent a message.


    -- Hello.


    -- To be honest, I''m not very well.


    -- I''m sorry.


    Athena noticed that this girl likes to apologize a lot, saying sorry and such.


    -- Can you really give it to me?


    Athena felt it necessary to correct this girl''s wording,


    --> It''s a trade.-- Sorry!


    [ Big Bear ] kept her short, soft hair, unlike Athena who wrapped herself in a blanket when she entered the game, thanks to her very bad sleeping position.


    At this moment, [ Big Bear ] sat on a wooden bed, wrapped tightly in a thick blanket, only showing a delicate little face.


    Five wood goblins went out to chop wood, three of them, while one occasionally added wood to the fire, and the other helped her watch the soup.


    "Sorry, Little Five, can you help me get some water?"


    The girl smiled shyly, and from the anthropomorphic expressions of the wood goblins, it could be seen that their relationship was good. She even named each wood goblin.


    [ Big Bear ] was very happy that [ Big Dream ], a big shot as many referred to elite players, was willing to trade "???" with her. She felt that these kind of mystery box items were very precious; every time, she could open super good things!


    --> Do you still need wood blocks? Or do you need anything else? I can do my best to meet your needs, please be sure to give it to me.


    -- For the things you open, I want half.


    --> Okay! Thank you, you''re really kind.


    Athena looked at how readily the other party agreed, and suddenly felt that she was losing out. Shouldn''t she open it herself?


    Player opening probabilityEmpty box75%Junk20%Miscellaneous4%Tier 11%


    Just thinking about it, she still had some a bit of ''luck''.Yes, decent items at 5% chance


    Bang!


    Familiar artillery fire sounded outside the courtyard.


    Can''t believe it, they''re coming in the daytime too, what a mistake.


    Hastily opening the door, I saw an unexpected visitor outside, the black phosphorus snake I encountered before. It was hit directly by two shells, now it''s struggling in pain outside the fence, its whole body blurred with flesh and blood, twisting and writhing.


    Its snake head is fierce and terrifying, hissing and spitting venom. Not only did the black phosphorus snake not hibernate, but it also sneaked over.


    Athena closed the door at a speed faster than opening it, her face cold, trying to psych herself up faster than opening the door.


    Better to endure the pain than prolong it, strike while the iron is hot. It would be solved with one axe blow if she rushed out now, just a large-sized insect.


    She even felt somewhat lucky that it was snowing now; even if snake blood splattered everywhere, once it melted, there would be nothing left. Although she still hated or feared snakes, she had to suppress this avoidance mentality.


    There would always be encounters here, and constantly avoiding them was also a problem. Encountering it now was better than encountering it in more dangerous situations later.


    Putting on the self-made cloak and hat, she went out.


    When one foot sank into the snow, the bear skin tightly wrapped around her calves, preventing direct contact with the snow, with pajama pants wrapped inside the bear skin. Every step she took was met with great resistance, unlike the black phosphorus snake.


    It slid on the snow, and could even burrow into it. This was extremely disadvantageous for her! And after another defeat, the black phosphorus snake fled again. She couldn''t catch up with its speed now, and it could even lead her into danger. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Realizing this, Athena retreated. Killing the black phosphorus snake now was too difficult.


    Athena was somewhat regretful that she hadn''t dealt with this troublesome fellow earlier, but she didn''t regret it. She would reflect on her actions but wouldn''t regret the choices she made.


    Regretting the past was meaningless; only reflection could make her progress. Just as she was about to go back inside, the turret fired another shell.


    The snow at the door was already charred, the fine snowflakes hadn''t had time to cover it yet, and the charred area expanded further.


    Experience +2


    Suddenly, at least a dozen snowstorm beasts appeared out of thin air!


    Snowstorm Beast Gathering event has triggered!Triggered!


    Player receives extra attention from snowstorm beasts, snowstorm beast spawn rate greatly increased!


    The fresh black phosphorus snake blood attracted the arrival of snow beasts, snow beast spawn rate greatly increased.Tip: When a certain number of snow beasts arrive, they can appear in daylight!


    My home really hit the jackpot today, these monsters just keep coming wave after wave. ...They said it would be very few. Turns out the effect of 1+1 can really be greater than 2... although it''s not a good thing after all.


    Bang! bang! bang!


    The continuous gunfire echoed, revealing a fatal weakness to Athena: the three-second cooldown time of the turret was already enough for the monsters to rush in.


    After sleeping longer than usual, Zoe Carter would find herself constantly changing, a transformation that was difficult to explain scientifically.The continuously evolving body, incredible abilities, and divine secrets... the things she pursued. In the past were now just floating clouds. Everything, including money and career, had lost its meaning.Richest person alive? World-renown individual? Becoming the symbol of faith?The existence of myths in fantasy did not seem far away.

 0016 – Bad Luck

    0016 ¨C Bad LuckIf encountering a large number of monsters, you need to use more turrets to suppress firepower, otherwise you can only upgrade the turrets to reduce cooldown time.


    Half-meter purple dream roses still stood proudly in the snow, most of the snowstorm beasts scratched by it stood still. The time delayed by advancing provided the turrets with attack time.


    Their sufficient numbers allowed some to slip through the net.


    Their speed in the snow was not slow, about one meter per second. Covered by fluffy fur, they looked like ghosts.


    In front of Athena, a big mouth appeared under the fluffy eyes of the furball, filled with sharp shark teeth.


    Launching an attack on her.


    Athena raised the axe in her hand and chopped towards its head. Without any blood, the slain snowstorm beasts decomposed like in a game.


    Experience +16


    Sitting on the steps of the wooden house, she rested and opened her personal attribute panel. The experience value on it had risen to 22.


    100 experience points could be exchanged for one point of free attribute, but there weren''t many places like hers where so many snow beasts attacked.


    How long would it take for other players to accumulate 100 experience points?


    "Convert all"


    Successfully converted to 0.2 free attribute points, with 2 experience points remaining.The minimum conversion amount is 10 points of experience, which can be converted into 0.1 attribute points.


    "Add 0.2 points to strength."


    It''s the fifth day, but she had already triggered a double buff. The refresh rate, which was extremely rare, had increased by more than ten times by the time it reached her.


    As the true first round of monster spawns on the 7th day approached, the monsters would only increase, but there was a limit.


    Those coming now were just the vanguard, the main force was still behind. Among them, it was impossible for all of them to be these grunts, there must be boss units.


    She had to take advantage of now to brush these low-attack small monsters as much as possible, and gain more experience to strengthen herself.


    Attribute PanelNameAthena RavencroftTitle [ Hunter ]RaceHumanGenderFemaleStrength 4.7 + 0.4Speed 2.1Agility1.8Mental2


    16 snow beasts, 30% drop rate, not a single one triggered...


    Normally, everyone should be similar to herself. Monsters wouldn''t respawn continuously in a short time, this was a conclusion reached by Athena herself and everyone in the chat channel.


    At the beginning, when monsters spawned, everyone was on high alert, in case there were monster ambushes. Although in the game, monster respawns had a specific time, but here it wasn''t a real game, it was reality. No one knew the variables, no one dared to be careless.


    So everyone didn''t sleep well on the first night, including Athena. Since knowing that monsters wouldn''t respawn in a short time, Athena planned to rest indoors.


    After thinking for a while, she decided to try her luck in the trading panel. But as soon as she opened the system panel, she found 99+ unread messages.


    All of them were from one person, the one who wanted to sell [Defense Turret Blueprint (Basic)] to her before.


    She opened it.


    -- Are you there?


    -- Are you there?


    ...


    -- Boss! I''ve been thinking, we can still discuss the price!


    -- Are you there?


    The reason why the other party was so urgent was because while Athena was refreshing monsters, other places were also refreshing at the same time.


    -- Are you there?


    -- !! You haven''t replied to me all this time, I thought you didn''t want it anymore. Just give me some food, water, and building materials, and I want to exchange for a ranged weapon that I can use!


    -- And also, I need medicine! Quick, you must have some! We can trade now!


    -- Are you still there?


    He had just refreshed two monsters, because the first one he refreshed was killed by him in a fierce battle. Not only that, but it also dropped a sparkling cyan package, which gave him the [Defense Turret Blueprint (Basic)], boosting his confidence. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So when refreshing monsters this time, he didn''t pay much attention, thinking that he could easily win. While he was busy chasing and fighting one of the monsters, he was ambushed by another monster, and his knife fell from his hand.


    The snowstorm beast pressed down on him, opening its mouth full of sharp teeth towards him. He could even see the shape of each tooth. If it wasn''t for the last moment when he felt the knife and stabbed it into the snowstorm beast''s mouth with all his strength.


    Now he was already a corpse, but even so, when he wounded the snowstorm beast on his body. But his leg was bitten by another snowstorm beast that hadn''t died yet. Its sharp teeth easily pierced his skin, leaving a deep wound on his leg.


    The bleeding couldn''t be stopped at all. He contacted everyone he could, hoping to exchange for what he needed, even exhausting his speaking limit in the chat channel.


    Athena was the only person he knew who might be able to meet his request.


    Unfortunately...


    Athena looked at the messages he sent. Apart from the price, she didn''t even have the things he needed.


    It seemed that she was destined to be unable to obtain the [Defense Turret Blueprint (Basic)].


    --> I simply don''t have what you need, sorry please try someone else.


    -- You do!


    -- Hurry!


    Athena looked at the messages he kept sending and chose to block him directly. She closed her eyes for a moment, offering peace. Athena knows what''s happening to the guy right now.


    "He''s going to die... "


    After this round of monster refresh, it seemed that everyone had obtained a lot of things.


    There were more items in the exchange than yesterday, but the asking price for each one was higher, most of them were unrealistic. And even if someone sincerely wanted to trade, they would immediately be snatched away by others.


    After squatting for a while, Athena realized that she still couldn''t grab anything, just like before because of her slow reaction.


    Darkness is encroaching on the world 10, 9, 8... 0


    But the continuously refreshing items in the exchange made her realize that even if these guys had fewer monsters than her, they would still drop packages. The system didn''t deceive people; its drop rate was real.


    Even Athena couldn''t deceive herself.


    It''s okay...


    A moment of bad luck wouldn''t last forever. Although she didn''t gain anything in the exchange, [ Big Bear ] brought her good news.


    -- I opened that box, really thank you for trading it to me.


    --> Taking 50% is too much, I''ll take 40%.


    Player [ Big Bear ] transfers "???", you receive 60%, do you accept?


    Yes / No ?


    Athena saw that the other party really transferred 60%. It was the first time she had encountered someone bargaining in reverse, allowing her to see the difference between others'' hands and her own.


    "Yes"


    To be honest, she didn''t have much hope.


    You obtain 1 World Stone, 1 Defense Turret (Basic), 1 Moonlight Bow and Arrow, 1 Arrow Crafting Box, 3 Special Ores![ World Stone ] GradeUngraded itemDescriptionTriggered on rare and specific occasions, can be used to open the Gate of the World.[ Defense Turret (Basic) ]Defense2Attack8SkillDouble damage probability 5%, fires one cannonball every 3 seconds.[ Arrow Crafting Box ]CategoryAccessory for growth-type weaponsDescriptionPut wooden blocks in it, and you will get the wooden arrows you need.[ Moonlight Bow and Arrow ]QualityExtremely rareUnique CategoryGrowth-type weaponDurability50/50 (repairable, upgradable)[ Special Ores ]--[Permission to view denied!]--


    Very good!


    These things far exceeded Athena''s expectations. Athena immediately picked up the Defense Turret Blueprint and set it up at the door.


    After selecting the materials, she successfully obtained the third turret.


    You already have three basic defense turrets, do you want to combine them into an intermediate defense turret?


    Yes / No ?


    After combining into an intermediate defense turret, it would definitely reduce the loading time.


    "Yes!"


    Congratulations on the first turret synthesis!Note: The current achievement section has not been updated, no system rewards.


    Warm white light emanated in the darkness. The three turrets merged into one, turning silver-gray in color, with two barrels facing directly at the door, exuding a strong sense of oppression.


    [ Defense Turret (Intermediate) ]Defense10Attack10SkillDouble damage probability 10%, fires two cannonballs every second.You have entered the 6th day, the army of monsters is approaching. According to the characteristics, the monsters refreshed in your location will double again!


    Unknowingly, midnight had arrived.

 0017 – Nest

    0017 ¨C NestAthena Ravencroft had a bad feeling because her friend, the little lost soul who were supposed to come deliver news today didn''t show up. Whenever such incidents occurred, it usually didn''t bode well.


    Nest approaching!


    The pitch-black night instantly became bright. Athena looked out through the crack in the door.


    Two kilometers away, there was something huge resembling a Black Hole! Emitting dazzling light, but its light was black.


    It hovered in mid-air, but it was slowly approaching here at an extremely slow speed.


    As the system said, this was the snowstorm beast''s nest. Every now and then, one or two snowstorm beasts would emerge from it, their targets and directions clear¡ªevery player''s residence.


    Athena opened the door, holding the bow and arrow she had just obtained. The bow and arrow were very simple, with no intricate patterns on them, just the natural color of ancient wood. It looked light, but it was actually heavier than Athena''s axe.


    Growth-type weapon?


    Although she didn''t quite understand, she knew that this thing must be precious, and such treasures couldn''t be left to gather dust.


    Athena couldn''t shoot arrows, but that didn''t stop her from practicing repeatedly, gradually learning. Tonight was a good practice opportunity.


    With the intermediate defense turret in place, her pressure would be much less. She could use the lone snowstorm beasts for practice. If they got close, she would apologize and chop them with her axe.


    The refresh rate tonight was surprisingly high. Not long after, the first snowstorm beast arrived, followed by a string of them.


    The defense turret began to fire cannonballs, its attack significantly enhanced. Basically, one cannonball could eliminate two snowstorm beasts. The ones that managed to escape or appeared in excess were for Athena to practice on. The snowstorm beast floated forward with its mouth wide open. It was the sole survivor of its wave, the village''s hope.


    Its eyes gleamed with fierceness, but the human ahead showed no fear. They raised their bows and arrows, attempting to shoot.


    The arrow! It landed on the ground...


    It hesitated for a second before continuing forward.


    Athena pursed her lips, pondering.


    Wait, wasn''t it just a matter of putting the arrow on, aiming, and shooting?


    Watching the snowstorm beast still advancing, she picked up another arrow. This time, she deliberately lightened her touch a bit before shooting. This time the arrow successfully flew out but landed a meter away from the snowstorm beast. The snowstorm beast opened its mouth wide, seeming to smirk.


    Just then, the human in front put down the bow and arrow, and walked towards it holding a reflective axe. But it wasn''t afraid at all, charging forward again. Athena gently lifted the axe, and with a heavy swing, struck down.


    Dropped white package x1 !


    Silently picking up the package and placing it aside, Athena once again picked up her bow and arrow. Wave after wave of snowstorm beasts followed closely behind. Athena had no time to rest, she couldn''t even open the system panel.


    The snow in front of the door was already scorched black, even revealing its original appearance beneath the thick layer of snow. Then this original appearance also began to turn black and gradually sink down.


    The courtyard was littered with arrows, which Athena picked up and reused.


    "Whoosh!"


    An arrow sliced through the air, making a bursting sound. The iron arrowhead fiercely pierced through the snowstorm beast''s thick fur and into its body. The advancing snowstorm beast didn''t even have time to react before being shot dead by an arrow.


    "Whoosh!"


    Another arrow, this time it shot further away. Before the turret could attack the remaining stragglers, the arrow preemptively killed the snowstorm beast.


    Athena''s gaze was icy, her back straight, her thumb slightly curved, lightly placed beside the bow notch. Guided by the purple text, she mastered the correct posture for holding the bow. And with her robust physical qualities, she had stronger control over her body.


    In just one night, she had already grasped the essentials. Although incomparable to those masters of archery, it could be considered as getting started. And she maintained her posture for shooting arrows from night until dawn.


    Daylight has arrived. Please begin exploring the world!


    Now, no more snowstorm beasts could come before her. Just as she was preparing to double down, the enormous nest stopped moving, one kilometer away. And the fluctuating lights that had been surrounding it all returned to calmness, everything around it seeming to freeze.


    When the nest doesn''t issue orders, snowstorm beasts won''t appear.


    Within twenty-four hours, snowstorm beasts won''t appear again. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Following closely was the system''s alert tone.


    Warning: The first wave of snowstorm beasts will respawn in 24 hours! There will be a total of four waves of monsters in this instance! Players, please prepare yourselves!


    As the system said, these were the first wave of monsters. The monsters before them were just "glitches" in appearance. Those couldn''t be considered a formal attack, and tomorrow morning, on the seventh day, these players would encounter the last tutorial of the seven-day newbie tutorial.


    For many people, this might be unfortunate because each wave of monsters would double in number. Ordinary players would find it difficult to deal with so many monsters.


    First wave of monstersTwo snowstorm beasts.Countdown24.00.00Snowstorm Beast (For detailed information about the monster, please click to view.)


    Although the system didn''t tell the players how many monsters there would be in each round, the purple text made it clear. Yes, there were only two in the first round, even if they doubled later, they couldn''t match the number Athena killed tonight.


    Experience +139


    Yes, that was a terrifying number. Athena found that due to her various operations, the monster refresh probability had reached a terrifying number, far exceeding the values that should be normal for their tutorial.


    So now, this tutorial was actually a kind of relaxation for her. It''s worth mentioning that tonight made her once again doubt the probabilities given by the system. She only dropped ''three'' packages in total... But what she cared more about was whether this significantly increased probability would also apply in the tutorial.


    She wasn''t afraid of the snowstorm beasts doubling, but what she feared was something else. Such a huge nest couldn''t possibly be without elite monsters and bosses.


    Normally, would a regular newbie tutorial have such a large scale?


    Thinking of this, a strong sense of unease arose in her heart. When she opened the system panel and quickly switched to the chat panel.


    Sure enough, the chat panel was peaceful, with the only ripples caused by the system''s notification just now that the first wave of monsters would arrive in 24 hours.


    -- I feel like the system is quite merciful, giving us 24 hours to prepare.


    -- Is the one above tortured and gone mad? You''ve been caught in this ghost place, and you''re calling it merciful!


    -- Yeah, I hope there aren''t too many monsters in the first round. It''s a struggle even to deal with one!


    -- The drop rate for these packages is so high, it''s a solid 30%. I''ve only encountered a few monsters sporadically these days and got two packages.


    -- Do you think these monsters will respawn? Will they appear out of thin air like these snowstorm beasts?


    -- I don''t know, it''s been snowing heavily lately, and I''m bored to death. I even went out to build a small snowman. If there''s a camera function, I''d post it for you guys to see.


    -- Haha, I feel like with my current strength, I can definitely clear this. You guys are all noobs!


    Sure enough, none of them were discussing the appearance of the enormous black nest outside. Or perhaps this was unique to Athena, where 1+1 could not only be greater than 2 but also possibly greater than 100.


    Gazing at the huge black nest one kilometer away, the fear of being swallowed up seemed to loom over her.


    When the enemy comes, the defense is strong; when the water comes, the soil will absorb it.


    She returned to bed with an expressionless face, and soon fell asleep. She hadn''t slept at all last night. Nothing was more important than sleep!

 0018 – The First Wave

    0018 ¨C The First Wave"Roar!"


    "Roar, roar!"


    Outside, the Snowstorm Beasts came in waves, lining up neatly in formation outside the forest, continuously roaring. Around their main nest, numerous small black holes split, and they orderly queued up, passing through one black hole after another.


    Transported to a distant place. Their footsteps were heavy, creating tremors as they trod on the ground.


    Under the growling of her stomach, Athena had already gotten up, cooking delicacies. Mushroom bear meat soup, very simple, and the taste wasn''t even that good, but she enjoyed it nonetheless. It was already past 4 o''clock in the afternoon, but the chaos outside didn''t pique her interest at all.


    In the midst of everyone''s panic, this was her most comfortable 24 hours. She opened the trading panel; the previous sale of long-tailed bear meat had long been taken down by her.


    Her trading panel now only displayed one item, almost forgotten even by herself.


    [ Selling Wooden Blocks ]PriceAccepting all kinds of drawings, tools, and things to pass the time.DescriptionIf you want to survive the cold wave, you have to make a fire. Making a fire requires firewood, and if you want to upgrade your shelter, you also need firewood. Limited to 80 units, first come, first served.


    It should have sold quickly, but because of the system''s subsidies, it still hadn''t sold out.


    She only traded for some scattered mineral water and compressed biscuits. There were no blueprints or tools that Athena wanted.


    But unexpectedly, there was a deck of cards, looking at the cards in her hand, she was a bit bewildered; how should one play alone?


    She took them out and shuffled, feeling the familiar texture. She used to play with friends when bored, even though she hardly ever won.


    Standing in the room, she paced a few times to aid digestion, then placed three wooden blocks into the arrow-making box. When she opened it later, there were neatly arranged 15 wooden arrows inside.


    Although the bow came with 50 arrows, because of durability, even though Athena was already very thrifty, picking them up every time she shot them out. But wear and tear were unavoidable, so it was still better to use wooden arrows as much as possible.


    She piled up three wooden blocks next to the stove, stacking them together. Then, she started practicing with wooden blocks as targets on the opposite side.


    The bow was like a full moon, the arrows like stars. She only stopped when she felt a slight ache in her arms.


    What was the best way to recover? It was, of course, to directly add strength points.


    She opened her personal attribute panel.


    Attribute PanelNameAthena RavencroftExperience141Title [ Hunter ]RaceHumanGenderFemaleStrength4.5 + 0.4Speed 2.1Agility1.8Mental2


    "Exchange experience into attribute points!"


    Successfully exchanged for 1.4 attribute points, 1 experience point remaining.


    "All added to strength attribute." As soon as Athena''s voice fell, the system panel changed.


    The fonts above started to blur and eventually disappeared altogether.


    Finally, the system burst out with a burst of white light.


    Athena was dazzled by the bright light, so she closed her eyes for a moment.


    When she opened her eyes again, just a moment later, the white light on the system had already faded away. But her personal attribute panel had undergone tremendous changes.


    Following that, her body began to emit crackling sounds, a surge of heat spreading throughout her body, as if her entire body was being reshaped.


    The world in front of her began to slow down, the instant of a meteor shower, now slowly unfolding before her.


    She even felt unstable under her feet, unable to control her body.


    In an instant, she lost her balance and fell to the ground.


    [ Hunter ] title strength bonus temporarily unavailable!Strength has reached the maximum value for the current section!Please update and break through the barrier as soon as possible! 5 strength skill draws in progress!Player''s physical fitness and strength mismatch, unable to fully adapt, please adapt as soon as possible!Remaining attribute points available for free allocation.Personal attribute panel updated.Attribute PanelNameAthena RavencroftExperience2Title [ Hunter (Locked) ] RaceHumanGenderFemaleStrength5Speed2.4Agility2.1Mental2.3SkillAttachment (attaching strength to weapons, weapon attributes will be significantly enhanced, with an extremely low probability of triggering a deadly state! ) Are you exploring the limits of humanity? Congratulations, you are about to enter a whole new world.


    At this moment, Athena couldn''t see anything, the comfort of her body vanished when the body transformation was completed, leaving only pain.


    She lay on the ground, cold sweat dripping from her forehead onto the floor, her entire body''s organs convulsing in agony.


    Unable to make a sound, she could only fiercely cover her chest with her hands, letting out a silent scream.


    "Knock, knock, knock!" Someone outside knocked urgently on the door.


    "Knock, knock, knock."


    Athena, paralyzed on the ground, moved her fingers slightly. It wasn''t until the knocking sound rang out again that she slowly opened her eyes.


    Athena dragged her weary body and leaned on the bed before finally getting up. She had almost thought she was going to die just now. It seems that every 5 attribute points is a turning point, and if you want to add attribute points, you must first match your physical fitness.


    She let out a long sigh of relief; she had narrowly escaped death. It seems that from now on, she would have to allocate sufficient time for exercise every day.


    Attribute points could only accumulate slowly. If she hadn''t been exercising before, she might have left this beautiful world the first time she added 3 points directly.


    "Knock, knock, knock, knock, knock, knock!!"  sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The people outside were gradually growing impatient; the time between each knock grew longer, and each knock grew heavier.


    Athena finally shifted her gaze towards the wooden door, but she had something else on her mind.


    Lifting her hand was still the same as usual; she hadn''t turned into a Barbie doll made of steel. It was just when she clenched her fist that she could feel the burst of strength.


    "Knock, knock, knock, knock!"


    The lost soul begins to feel like you might have died inside.


    Athena opened the door only to find that it was already pitch-black outside. While she was unconscious, much time had passed.


    The lost soul stood outside the door, still holding the knocking position. Seeing her finally opening the door, he raised his head and looked at Athena with an unfriendly gaze.


    Athena straightforwardly took the nail-sized parchment from his hand. Without asking him why he hadn''t brought any news last night, she just opened today''s parchment.


    "They''re about to start a war!" There were few words on the parchment today, only six in total.


    The lost soul anxiously paced below, urging Athena to return the parchment to him quickly.


    There was less than an hour left until daylight arrived. This was one of his few parchments left; if it was snatched away by Athena again, he would be left with nothing!


    Seeing that Athena remained unmoved and even rolled up the parchment, intending to toss it into the system space again, he panicked.


    "I can''t give it to you anymore, I don''t even have anything left to deliver next time!"


    He said loudly, his voice filled with anger. But because of his childish voice, even his anger seemed like a spoiled child.


    "..."


    The air suddenly fell silent.


    "A child?" Because of his first impression, she had always thought the lost soul was an old ghost who had died many years ago.


    The lost soul didn''t care about getting his parchment back anymore. Maintaining his image for so long, he would ruin it as soon as he opened his mouth, so he hurriedly left.


    The purple font naturally provided the information.


    Lost soul''s juvenile form, first arrival in the human world with unfavorable results.


    ...I always felt like I was bullying a child, but I didn''t expect to actually be bullying a child, maybe even a child who''s only been born for a few days.


    But can they be measured by human standards? I can''t consider it as bullying a child; whose child wants to kill people right after being born?


    In just a few minutes, the darkness outside began to recede, and daylight was about to arrive.


    No wonder that guy was in such a hurry; he probably knocked on the door all day yesterday. I''ve been asleep for almost a day...


    Daylight has arrived, please begin exploring the world!


    As usual, she calmly performed a set of radio gymnastics.


    Holding the moonlight bow and arrow, she stood outside the wooden door and looked into the distance. The ground vibrated, and tens of thousands of Snowstorm Beasts entered one small black hole after another in an orderly manner.


    There was also a group of Snowstorm Beasts particularly conspicuous, coming towards Athena''s direction. Their number was greater than those being sent away now. This was the effect Athena had after stacking double buffs.


    The huge black hole emitted darkness outward, even though it was daytime now, the daylight around it was being eaten away by darkness.


    Countdown: 00.00.13The first wave of Snowstorm Beasts has arrived!Players, please prepare yourselves. A round will occur every two hours, totaling four rounds this battle!


    With the system''s prompt sound, the first batch of Snowstorm Beasts had already arrived at Athena''s doorstep.


    Due to special events, the monster spawn quantity for "Big Dream" player has significantly increased!Number of Snow Beasts in the first wave: 10


    Sure enough, what should come always comes. The first round, which should have had only two, suddenly turned into ten in the blink of an eye.


    Each subsequent round would double, plus her own doubling...


    Looking at the courtyard, still bald and covered in snow, Athena suddenly thought that if the bodies didn''t disappear, she wondered if there would be enough space in the yard to pile up so many corpses.


    "Boom!" "Boom!"


    The sounds of two cannon blasts rang out simultaneously, and even the heavy snow couldn''t conceal the scorched earth. The battle had begun.


    With her right hand holding the bow and her left hand drawing the string, the first wooden arrow broke through the defense of the Snowstorm Beast with a sound of tearing through the air.


    The Snowstorm Beast in the front had already fallen, its body dispersing.


    Athena''s gaze turned to the back where there was a creature different from the normal Snowstorm Beasts. Normal Snowstorm Beasts were over a meter tall, but it was over three meters tall, exuding a strong sense of oppression. Its fur color was closer to snow, and if it weren''t for Athena''s enhanced attributes and improved vision, it would have been easier to observe such subtle creatures.


    Perhaps it wouldn''t have been noticed at all, this creature that had already merged with the snow. It stood at the back, coldly watching the Snowstorm Beasts falling one by one in front of it.


    Congratulations, you have defeated the first wave of Snowstorm Beasts!The second wave of Snowstorm Beasts will refresh in two hours.Experience points +10, no package obtainedCountdown: 02.00.00

 0019 – Athena’s grinding moments!

    0019 ¨C Athena¡¯s grinding moments!Next round refresh monsters: 50!Unlike Athena, just two monsters are not enough to threaten many people who have survived until now.


    -- The first wave only has two, just two? Not enough for me to kill.


    -- Hahaha, scared me for a moment when the teleporter sent them over. I even waited a little longer specifically, and turns out there really are just two.


    -- If every batch only had two, that would be great.


    -- Tsk, coward. I wish there were more, more loot and experience for me.


    -- Maybe it''s because of the newbie tutorial, so these monsters are easy to kill and few in number. I also hope there will be a few more, there won''t be such good opportunities in the future.


    -- Are you all robots? Grabbing items from the trade panel so quickly, can''t you leave some good stuff for me?!


    -- Just practice more if you''re a noob.


    -- There''s a good item on the trade panel! Who wants to try it?!


    The speaker was called Potato, but he was soon mocked by the crowd. Athena clicked on his profile picture, and there was something in his trade panel. It was his self-promoted trade item, boasting and selling his wares.


    [ Monster Summoning Scroll ] x10PriceGive me a good offer!DescriptionGood stuff! Don''t underestimate it!Click to view details[ Monster Summoning Scroll ]CategoryScrollFeatureTear it open to summon more monsters for you.


    More monsters mean more profit for you, what are you waiting for? Use it now!


    Athena wondered where this guy named Potato got this scroll from, and he managed to get ten at once.


    Although everyone was chatting, not many people were willing to use this scroll. As a result, it hadn''t been sold yet, and he himself had to promote it in the chat interface.


    Athena thought about the scroll''s feature and decided to send a message to the other party.


    Although she didn''t need it now because she had plenty of monsters, what if there were special circumstances in the future?


    Despite the danger, as the system said, it also had absolute returns.


    --> Let''s talk about your price.


    Athena sent a message to the other party. Sitting by the fire, eating the last berries to fill her stomach, the snow on her body melted into water drops under the roasting of the fire, dripping down the tarp.


    00.00.1000.00.0200.00.01


    As everything reset to zero, the second wave of monsters attacked. Although there were fifty snowstorm beasts, it was still within Athena''s capabilities to handle. Although it took some time, she managed to finish them off perfectly.


    Experience +50


    She placed the two packages dropped in the courtyard together with the ones from before, totaling three white packages.


    Just after this batch was eliminated, the vast horde of snowstorm beasts was heading this way.


    Athena frowned as she looked at the large monster two meters tall in the distance, which, from the first round to the second round now, even after so many snowstorm beasts died, perhaps remained motionless standing there. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    There were still two waves left, her refresh mechanism was different from others''.


    For some reason here, Athena had spawned the main nest. The monsters elsewhere were all teleported from here, so her monsters didn''t need to be teleported in waves.


    Instead, after this round was eliminated, the next round would come. So she could clearly see the third wave of snowstorm beasts in the distance, and faintly see the fourth wave as well.


    Compared to the previous waves, the fourth wave clearly followed an elite route with only five beasts.


    She pulled her bow taut and shot at the huge monster. Since her monsters didn''t need to wait for teleportation, could she choose to end the killing early? The huge monster looked extraordinary at a glance, and it hadn''t joined the battle yet. If it were to support the rear, combined with the elite monsters, it would be quite troublesome.


    Unfortunately, the arrow was blocked in mid-air by a transparent shield.


    Following that was the system''s piercing warning sound.


    Warning! This is an ultra-low probability monster! Snow Beast (Will) has not been opened yet and cannot be attacked!Open after the end of the fourth wave!Unsealing status18%Unsealing degree increases with time, reaching peak status!


    Feeling a bit embarrassed, Athena stopped and aimed at the monsters from the third wave. Unexpectedly, this time there was no special barrier protection, and she successfully reduced one of the snowstorm beasts.


    Experience point +1


    Attacking early turned out to be feasible, but the snowstorm beasts started to become restless, it seemed they were going to launch their attack early too. This was within Athena''s expectations.


    If she could attack early, then so could the opponents.


    Two hours was too long; it was better to just kill them all.


    Trigger special event: Warrior who takes the initiative to attack!Warrior who takes the initiative to attack:


    Confront fear, brave fear, take the initiative to attack, eliminate enemies. (Preconditions met.)


    Successfully eliminating snowstorm beasts will grant this title.


    The special reward was something Athena hadn''t anticipated, but at this moment, she was more focused on shooting arrows. Arrow after arrow was shot out, accompanied by the fierce bombardment, monsters surged like tides.


    As the third wave of monsters began to attack, the fourth wave began to advance.


    When this group of monsters realized they were being called for help, Athena already knew they had a certain level of intelligence.


    Facing the intense line of defense, they would also retreat, but under the unknown power, they would charge forward again. But as long as they retreated, they would gather together.


    What Athena was waiting for was now, as crowded places were more prone to causing collective damage.


    "All dried weeds!"


    Take out dried weeds x10 ?


    Yes / No ?


    "Yes!"


    The oil bought earlier had already been sprinkled on these bundles of weeds, adding fuel to the fire! Athena put away her bow and arrows into her spatial backpack, and with a lighter in hand, she lit the weeds.


    The fire instantly grew larger, and Athena felt the heat in her hands as she held it. With her astonishing strength, she threw the blazing weeds into the group of snowstorm beasts.


    The previous purple font hint:


    The monsters of the first Tower Defense mission, they are sincere believers of snow and hate heat sources and warmth.


    Please note that every batch of snowstorm beasts will appear in groups!


    Almost all animals abhor and fear fire. During the previous siege, she unavoidably came into contact with the snowstorm beasts.


    Contrary to her expectations, the fur of the snowstorm beasts not only closely resembled the color of snow, but their fur was also dry. Snow melts upon contact with warmth, and these densely packed and lush fur should have been moist as they traversed through the snow.


    Yet they were inexplicably dry, and when snowflakes touched their fur, they slid off, as if lacking friction, never staying on their fur.


    This is excellent material for starting a fire. Athena originally bought oil just to give it a try, after all, it''s almost impossible to get a fire going in such heavy snow. But in subsequent encounters, the characteristics of their fur greatly increased the possibility of the fire spreading.


    Several piles of ignited dry grass were thrown over, and as soon as they touched the snowstorm beasts, they began to burn. Instantly, they merged into a growing fire, eventually resembling a sea of flames.


    Even the heavy snow couldn''t extinguish the blaze, and the following snowstorm beasts tried to retreat to avoid the flames.


    However, by now, the third wave of snow beasts had arrived, successfully blocking their escape route. The charging snowstorm beasts were destroyed by Athena and the turrets.


    As the fire grew, Athena''s experience points increased rapidly.


    Experience points +1Experience points +1Experience points +1


    ...


    The situation continued until the fourth wave, which was the final snowstorm beasts to arrive on the battlefield.


    At this point, most of the snowstorm beasts were either burning or already incapacitated, and only a few intact ones remained. Perhaps only a dozen or so would ultimately survive; they had completely lost their combat ability.


    These four remaining snow beasts stood at a distance from the flames, opening their mouths and exhaling. Instantly, a small vortex formed, carrying the snow and wind forward.


    Some of the flames were extinguished, but compared to the large fire, it was still not enough.


    As if knowing it was futile, they didn''t charge in like the previous group of snowstorm beasts did through the door Athena intentionally left open, but chose to attack from another side.


    Athena also chose to abandon defense here, letting the turrets continue to attack as she moved around to the side. Her movements never stopped, continuously shooting arrows at these four snowstorm beasts.


    As she became more proficient, she tried to focus all her strength on her arms. A strange feeling surged through her, and she shot out a different arrow than usual.


    The arrow began to disintegrate in mid-air due to its excessive force, but still firmly pierced into the snowstorm beast''s body.


    Skill additional effect triggered!SkillAttachment (Enhances weapon attributes with strength, greatly increasing weapon attack power, with an extremely low probability of triggering a fatal state!)


    The snowstorm beast hit by the arrow was instantly left with a small amount of health, but unfortunately, the fatal state was not triggered.


    Athena fired another arrow. Now there were only three left. As she approached, she put away her bow and arrows into the system backpack and took out her long-unused axe.


    Across the fence, she swung the axe fiercely at the snowstorm beast. These creatures had no hands, only mouths, they couldn''t grab or bite Athena.


    When one of them opened its mouth to bite Athena, she fiercely thrust a wooden arrow into its mouth, instantly killing it!


    Just narrowly avoiding another attack, Athena flipped backward, swung her axe at the snowstorm beast''s head, pulled it out instantly, and then delivered another blow along the gaping wound.


    Another one was severely wounded in the eye by the wooden sword in her left hand.


    Efficiently dealing with it, she then finished off the blinded snowstorm beast. By now, both sides of the battle had ended, and the experience point bonus from the defense turrets gradually subsided.


    The values on the system panel fluctuated. Finally settling at 367!


    Experience points +367!


    Each of these four snowstorm beasts (Soldiers) added 30 points to Athena''s experience, and there were still some beasts that hadn''t completely died.


    In the end, she would probably gain about 400 experience points. But she couldn''t relax now, because the Snowstorm Beast (Commander) had moved!


    Its movement speed was twice that of the other snowstorm beasts, covering about two meters in a second!


    The continuous swinging of her axe and firing of arrows placed a great burden on Athena''s arms, and the temperature of the defense turrets became scorching hot.


    Even if it hadn''t fully awakened, this was still an opponent impossible to defeat, at least for now... The giant monster opened its big mouth, inside of which there were no sharp teeth, but a dark hole similar to their nest.


    Snowstorm Beast Commander is about to use skill: Furious Blizzard!


    A sharp and icy wind suddenly blew, pushing Athena back two steps, making her face sting. She touched her face and realized it was bleeding from the scratches!

 0020 – Kill and Kill!

    0020 ¨C Kill and Kill!Snowstorm Beast (General)LevelSuper Version Strength30 (decreased to 20)Defense20 (decreased to 15)SkillsSnowstorm Fury, Devour, Charge (Details of skills cannot be viewed due to level discrepancy!)Snowstorm FuryThe wielder of snowstorms can summon snow within a small range to launch attacks, harmless snowflakes turning into sharp blades.DevourOnce caught in its deep jaws, a judgment will be made; if the player fails the judgment, there is a 40% chance of being directly swallowed.Charge30% chance to deal double damage. (The same skill in its hands is a lethal move.)WeaknessNo obvious weaknesses! Face the strong directly!Awakening Degree31%Skills under LockdownDevour, Charge (partial lockdown)!Athena Ravencroft was extremely grateful for her improved physique and thickened skin. Otherwise, the scratch on her face just now wouldn''t have been as simple as it seemed; she might have been seriously injured.


    Although she was already killing monsters at a very fast pace, this creature still awakened by 31%.


    Athena kept her muscles tense to a certain degree. Over-tensing muscles could lead to a momentary delay in movement, and sudden vigorous movement while relaxed could result in injury. She had a good grasp of this.


    Once again, the Snowstorm Beast (General) opened its large mouth, and Athena dodged while quickly diving closer, taking advantage of the opportunity.


    "Roar!!!"


    The snowstorm beast raged, but Athena was outside its attack range, now in front of the Snowstorm Beast General.


    She swung her axe horizontally, fiercely hacking down, flesh and skin rolling.


    When the opponent attacked, she changed direction to create distance but didn''t dare to go too far. Compared to arrows, axes were more proficient, and this creature was prone to charging from a distance. Every five points was a cycle, and under that level of strength, even with some skills partially locked down, Athena wasn''t confident she could withstand the charge.


    Although her axe had struck firmly just now, it was because it caught the creature off guard, and also because its defense was high. The wound she caused just now didn''t hit the bone, so the damage wasn''t significant.


    Seemingly sensing Athena''s danger, the Snowstorm Beast General stayed still, but Athena, with astonishing eyesight, noticed its fur starting to bristle.


    Without hesitation, she circled around it. The Snowstorm Beast General followed suit, its massive body turning, fur tightening, aiming to charge at Athena.


    Short Charge!


    Typically, charges were launched from a distance, but this creature could execute short-range charges. Athena was fast, but the Snowstorm Beast General was faster.


    Athena kicked the ground forcefully, but the thick layer of snow slowed the force, preventing her from successfully dodging using the recoil.


    Another axe appeared in her hand instantly, blocking in front of her. She was sent flying like a kite with a broken string, crashing fiercely into a tree.


    "Urgh!"


    She spat out blood, the immense pain in her chest making it difficult to even think straight, but the Snowstorm Beast General paid no heed.


    When it charged earlier, Athena had angled her axe downward. As it charged, her axe also swung into its body with the force. This time, she hit bone; there were two deep wounds visible on its snowy-white fur, and with time, it would fall. Enraged, it stood still, preparing for a second charge.


    Athena tossed the two axes in her hand into the system and retrieved another one. Her battered body couldn''t move, and in her current state, another charge would undoubtedly kill her.


    Each time she allocated attribute points, the system would reshape her body and repair it to some extent... No matter how she died, she would die!


    "Allocate all attribute points!"


    Automatic Exchange, Random Allocation!Attribute PanelNameAthena RavencroftExperience6Title[ Hunter (Locked) ]RaceHumanGenderFemaleStrength5Speed4.4Agility2.2Mental2.3SkillsAttachment


    A surge of heat swept through her body as before, bones restructuring, wounds beginning to heal. Doing this during battle was extremely dangerous, but Athena had no choice given her injuries.


    While still conscious, she forced herself up and leaped onto a tree branch, then swiftly jumped to another. Meanwhile, the Snowstorm Beast was about to crash into the tree she had previously occupied but abruptly changed direction and collided with the tree she was now on. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The tree fell, but the sudden change in direction lessened the impact, sparing Athena on this tree.


    From her backpack, she pulled out a sickle and jumped onto the beast''s back, using the sickle to hook onto its rear tightly to prevent herself from falling.


    The tattered bear fur wrapped around her, previously ineffective due to the heavy snow, now contained the [ Purple Dream Buds ].


    Hanging on its back, she twisted around and forcefully stuffed the [ Purple Dream Buds ] into the deep wound on its chest.


    "Roar!"


    The Snowstorm Beast General was furious at being toyed with by a human and in pain from the foreign object inside its body. The Purple Dream Buds slashed at its flesh with its branches.


    As the Snowstorm Beast General swung violently, Athena was successfully thrown off its back.


    At the same time, black blood began to ooze from its wound. As it opened its mouth to launch another snowstorm, the snow couldn''t come out, and it stopped in place. Its eyes dull, devoid of its former ferocity.


    Athena breathed a sigh of relief and approached, delivering a few final axe blows to its wound.


    Snowstorm Beast (General) has been slain!Congratulations to player [ Big Dream ] for completing the tower defense mission ahead of schedule!


    Basic rewards have been sent via mail, along with the special reward [ Snow Guardian (Armlet) ]!


    This tower defense: S+ Rating!Successful killing of Super Version Monster, reward being sent!Reward obtainedSnow Guardian (Necklace)!Acquired the title of Proactive Warrior![ Proactive Warrior ]Durability50/50LevelRareAcquisition MethodUnknownTitle AttributesChoosing to take the initiative against monsters, striking first is strength. There is a chance of gaining a +10 attack bonus each time, with increased courage and mental immunity.[ Snow Guardian Armlet ]TypeArmletAttributeWearing it will protect your arms, increasing defense by +10.This is a set item, sets grant additional attribute bonuses.[ Snow Guardian Necklace ]TypeNecklaceAttributeWearing it grants significant resistance to risks in snowstorms, fearlessly facing snowstorms.


    Dragging her weary body back to her house, Athena collapsed on the bed. She didn''t even have the strength to pick up the scattered white packages on the ground.


    She curled up in pain, the agony of her wounds combined with the intense pain from the significant attribute point.


    "AAAARRGHHHHH!"

 0021 – Teleportation

    0021 ¨C TeleportationTime crawled like years, this was Athena''s true feeling. She even fiercely bit down on a wooden block, eventually snapping it in two with her teeth.


    Only after an hour did this sensation gradually subside. Barely able to move, she lay motionless on the bed.


    In the future, she must be better prepared and not do this again. Who knows, she might die in the hands of monsters at any time, or even first perish at the hands of the system.


    Opening her email inbox, two gift boxes were quietly placed inside. When she opened the gift boxes, a simulated fireworks display appeared on the system panel, making it quite grand.


    "Seriously?"


    Congratulations on clearing the tutorial in advance!Obtained blueprint for Level 3 shelter, Level 1 smelter, 100 stones, 100 wood blocks, 100 weeds, and 20 ores.


    Athena looked at the room filled to the brim once again and felt a wave of relief.


    No wonder after upgrading to Level 2 shelter, there was no condition to upgrade to Level 3 shelter. It turned out that after upgrading to Level 2, blueprints were needed.


    Now that she had a smelter, she could build weapons herself. Should she do it herself or let the system help?


    She opened another package.


    !!!


    Trigger special condition, World Stone 2


    Would you like to consume World Stone 1 and enter the lair of the Snowstorm Beast?Please begin exploring the world!


    If you really want to explore the world, then use the World Stone to go to various places in the world.


    It has been detected that you possess two World Stones, one can be used to open a world gate, and the other can be used for disguise.System''s disguise will blend you in. No need to worry about being discovered, please explore with confidence.Yes / No ?Tip: Equipping the proactive warrior will greatly enhance your mental resistance, bringing unexpected gains.


    Although Athena''s battle had ended here, the battles of others had only just finished the second wave.


    If she chose to use the World Stone now, where would she be transported? To the dwellings of other players or somewhere else? Exploring the world, is this world composed of players and monsters, or are there other places?


    When Athena went out to explore before, she encountered barriers, but as their levels increased, this barrier would gradually expand to face them.


    Since it''s a special reward from the system, there should be some assurance, it shouldn''t be too difficult.


    Faced with this choice, Athena knew she couldn''t give up.


    "Yes"


    Teleportation will be activated for you in one hour.


    One hour, this was just when the third round of monster attacks would begin.


    Athena relaxed on the bed, wolfing down a piece of compressed biscuit. She drank a whole bottle of water, intending to sleep peacefully for an hour.


    After all, what she might face next might not be much simpler than killing a boss monster.


    What kind of world is this, why did the system choose them? She wanted to find out.


    Outside the door, the huge nest was once again active, and a small vortex resembling a teleportation array appeared in Athena''s wooden house. It spun quietly in her room, allowing only one person to pass through.


    Inside the main nest, countless Snowstorm Beasts were celebrating, gearing up to attack, their numbers far exceeding those used to attack players.


    A violent shaking was felt, and the black vortex emitted a terrifying suction force.


    Athena stood ready in front of the vortex, wearing a new pair of grass shoes on her feet. She carried a bow and arrows on her shoulders and held an axe in her hand.


    System disguise activated, please enter the passage!


    A thin layer of light enveloped her body, morphing with her movements like a soft and transparent veil. She frowned slightly, even this disguise...


    In the end, she chose to trust the system and stepped into it casually. A sensation of weightlessness hit her, and Athena leaned against the wall of the city, feeling nauseous.


    "...?"


    The aftereffects of this teleportation were just too much, making her feel as if she had been tossed into a spinning washing machine. When she thought something magical would happen, the system only changed her outfit.


    A grayish-brown outfit with embroidered golden threads, with a sun emblem on the left chest, paired with silver boots. Even her messy hair became neat and tied into a high ponytail. She looked heroic and decisive.


    As she was retching, a middle-aged man appeared behind her, reaching out to pat her shoulder.


    "Hey, don''t throw up..."


    Little did he know, before he could touch Athena, she abruptly turned her head. Her eyes, unlike their usual color, now glared coldly at him as if she could kill him in the next moment.


    IdentitySoldier


    But he quickly realized it was just his imagination, as Athena had already turned to face him.


    "Thank you, I just feel a bit unwell."


    Athena smiled gently, her brows curved. Because the sensation from the teleportation just now was too intense, her face still looked a bit pale, giving her a forced cheerful appearance.


    The man was a middle-aged man with a simple and honest face, sporting a small mustache. Seeing Athena''s somewhat pale face, he softened his tone.


    "The first time people come from other cities to the battlefield, they''re all like you, but it gets worse later." S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He looked at the ruins nearby, where broken limbs lay scattered, people wailing in agony, and blood staining the ground with a deep red hue, interspersed with craters. And he was missing an arm, simply bandaged with a torn piece of cloth from his clothes.


    It''s worth mentioning that he also had golden eyes, or rather, everyone here had golden eyes.


    There was no pain in his eyes, only numbness towards war. He could even laugh heartily at Athena.


    "Girl, you better adapt quickly, those monsters might come back at any moment."


    He shook his head and walked away.


    Welcome to Sun City!Sun CityAlignmentNeutral (Leaning towards Good)Evaluation???Location???IntroductionIn an unknown place, humans fight against monsters without a system, without any hints. They only have their own lives to battle against the monsters that may appear at any time, guarding the last pristine land in this world. Synchronizing...Countdown for the third wave of monsters in Sun City


    00:00:42


    A place reeking of decayDanger level???Please evacuate! Please evacuate!


    The smoke from the bombardment had not yet dispersed, lingering in the air. Soldiers came and went, but none stopped to greet Athena.


    While others around her were still rejoicing, Athena had already dashed towards the defense tower behind.


    As she passed the middle-aged man, she shouted at him. The purple text prompts caught her attention, but this was a battlefield.


    "Prepare for battle!"


    She rushed to a higher position as fast as she could, like other archers, pulling her bow tight, ready for action. The system simulated her equipment, but didn''t provide her with a weapon. She couldn''t afford to ruin her last axe.

 0022 – Grim Reaper from Flame City

    0022 ¨C Grim Reaper from Flame CityThe jarring alarm quickly echoed throughout the area, and the soldiers swiftly sought shelter and began their defense duties.


    Athena positioned herself in the rear, firing cold arrows amidst the continuous bombardment and thick smoke.


    In the Sun City, the Snowstorm Beasts lacked their environmental advantage; here, it was sunny with no trace of snow or wind. Despite the intense barrage on their side, the sheer number of Snowstorm Beasts was overwhelming.


    Looking down from the city walls, the Snowstorm Beasts appeared countless, seemingly endless, with occasional interspersed figures of Snowstorm Beast generals.


    As the enemy forces approached, dozens of artillery pieces were mounted on the city walls, each equipped with magical inscriptions, while soldiers armed with crossbows took aim below.


    Athena spotted a figure on the city wall, clad in silver armor, raising a heavy sword and swinging it fiercely downwards, prompting the soldiers to open fire.


    Snowstorm Beasts fell in droves below the city walls, engulfed in the barrage, disappearing from sight.


    At the forefront, the mages chanted incantations unintelligible to Athena, and a massive magic circle appeared above them. Successive enormous fireballs shot forth from the magic circle, leaving nothing in their wake.


    "Roar!"


    A loud roar echoed from the distant sky. Athena followed the sound and looked up to see a Snowstorm Dragon, with its massive, wide back and sharp claws capable of shredding any prey.


    Its snow-white scales glistened in the sunlight, yet emanated an extreme chill.


    Despite the concentrated firepower directed at it, it seemed unaffected, only further infuriated. It unleashed a storm from its gaping maw, mixed with biting snowflakes.


    The circular defensive magic formation on the wall activated, forming a protective barrier around the people on the wall.


    "You, come here!" the armored figure pointed at Athena on the tower and called her down.


    Athena felt helpless. Was she being regarded as a deserter? Little did she know, as soon as she descended, the figure delivered a heavy blow to her shoulder.


    With utmost caution, he said to her, "I''m entrusting these children from the Flame City to you. Please ensure the mission is completed."


    Identity Card Conditions ActivatedIntroductionYou are a veteran sent from Flame City to assist in defending the Sun City, possessing rich experience and familiarity with the weaknesses of Snowstorm Beasts.Sun City Camp Mission:ChargeIntroduction:It''s impossible to eliminate Snowstorm Beasts solely with artillery; there will inevitably be bloodshed in battle. Lead the soldiers behind you in a charge, ensuring their safe return.Mission Completion Condition:Eliminate over a hundred Snowstorm Beasts, rewards based on the final enemy kill count!Mission Failure: Deduct 3 attribute points each, Sun City camp reputation decreased by 50.Special Reward Distribution:Mastery in Horsemanship!


    Athena glanced at the hand still resting on her shoulder and nodded.


    She hadn''t led troops before; now was not the time to reveal that fact. If her identity fraud were exposed, she might end up in a dire situation, especially considering the armored warrior''s superior attributes and their home advantage.


    Behind her were a group of young soldiers, including mages, swordsmen, and mercenaries, but notably lacking healers. They were led to the city gate. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Alongside them were dozens of similar squads. The armored warrior''s roar echoed from the wall as earthen barriers rose outside, separating the mass of Snowstorm Beasts.


    Those Snowstorm Beasts unable to evade were pinned in mid-air and dispersed upon impact.


    The city gate slowly opened, revealing a passage deliberately left by the earthworks. The leaders of each squad, wielding whips and riding horses, charged ahead.


    At the moment Athena and her companions charged in, the earthworks shifted again, placing them in front of the Snowstorm Beasts.


    Athena reluctantly brandished her last axe, cutting through the beasts like a hot knife through butter. Soon, the area around her was clear of Snowstorm Beasts.


    The younger mages in the group waved their staffs, casting fireballs.


    When one Snowstorm Beast targeted Athena, she leaped halfway off her horse, narrowly avoiding its attack. As it passed, she swiftly regained her footing with a push, delivering a blow.


    Astonished, a mage turned to a nearby swordsman, asking, "Is our captain always this fierce?" The swordsman, elegant yet formidable, didn''t forget to answer amidst his battle.


    "Her? She''s the Grim Reaper from Flame City. Would someone like her apply for a border outpost like ours?"


    "...I see."


    The swordsman, somewhat strained, continued, "Stop daydreaming; lend a hand!"


    As the monsters were almost wiped out, the earthworks shifted again, releasing another wave of Snowstorm Beasts. These beasts had clearly been scorched by the artillery fire outside, with singed fur.


    Yet, this didn''t stop them from charging forward, and the exhausted fighters resumed the battle once more.


    During the earlier assembly, Athena keenly felt the Sun City''s shortage of troops. Hence, someone like her, who volunteered from the outer city, was highly valued.


    However, she hadn''t anticipated the extent of the shortage, leading to their group facing multiple waves of Snowstorm Beasts without rotation. This would greatly increase casualties, but letting the beasts breach the city walls would cause even more harm.


    Watching them chatting and laughing, Athena couldn''t help but interject, "How old are you?"


    There was a momentary freeze in the air. Since their arrival, their captain had been solely focused on killing enemies. Her demeanor clearly warned against approaching, showing no intention of conversation. Suddenly, Athena''s question caught them off guard.


    The mage hesitated before hastily replying, "I just turned 16 this year!" He sounded proud.


    Athena''s expression grew colder. The mage, sensing he may have spoken out of turn, tried to rectify, "Uh, my parents... they''re out." His forced smile didn''t quite match his answer.


    Seeing his discomfort, Athena chose not to pursue further. "What''s your name?"


    "I''m called Max Ryder!"


    Athena simply nodded, indicating she understood. In truth, she knew better than to form close bonds on the battlefield. Asking an extra question was only because this boy seemed to possess more potential and vitality.


    It must be said that those selected were elite; despite enduring prolonged intense combat, they didn''t complain and remained highly effective.


    "Ah!" It was the swordsman; due to the nature of his weapon, like Athena, he needed close combat. He looked weary, a chunk of flesh bitten off his arm by a Snowstorm Beast.


    Athena rode over, eliminating the beast before gathering everyone and shielding him at the center. However, this didn''t stop the bleeding; the wound, revealing bone, continued to pour blood, threatening his life.


    Gritting her teeth, Athena tore off a sleeve from her own arm and handed it to a more experienced mercenary nearby, asking her to help with a makeshift bandage.


    As the mage and Athena continued to resist the relentless onslaught of Snowstorm Beasts, the swordsman, his wound bandaged, charged back into battle.


    With the swordsman and mercenary''s addition, the pressure on Athena and her group significantly eased.


    The mage looked at the swordsman, still bleeding profusely, and ultimately chose not to say anything... they still needed him.


    It wasn''t until this round of attacks was about to end that the earthworks finally stopped shifting, and the outside artillery fire ceased.


    The chanting grew louder, accompanied by the increasingly resonant roars of the Snowstorm Dragon. The city gates opened, and someone waved them back to the city urgently.


    "Back to the city!" Athena swiftly commanded as the gates opened.


    But in an instant, the swordsman collapsed, and before he could respond, Athena, flying past on her horse, grabbed him by the collar and pulled him onto her mount.


    The mercenaries behind also took hold of the swordsman''s horse, and everyone hurried back to the city at breakneck speed.


    Even as the horses bucked wildly, the swordsman showed no reaction whatsoever.

 0023 – Athena Returns and Upgrades!

    0023 ¨C Athena Returns and Upgrades!The pounding of hooves just entered the city gates when a series of prompt tones sounded.


    Faction mission completed!Commencing return! Rewards will be distributed upon return.Departed safely, returned safely!


    Athena tightly gripped the reins as she listened to the continuous system prompts.


    "Drive!" The people inside the city quickly gathered around, healers standing by.


    Handing the person on horseback over to the healers, Athena felt her body being pulled by a force.


    She vanished on the spot, but the people around seemed oblivious, continuing to bustle about.


    Return successful!


    As Athena underwent the second teleportation, she began to adapt, yet still felt a wave of dizziness. Sitting down on the bed, she looked around the familiar room, the fire crackling inside the stove, never extinguished.


    Her whole body ached, especially the inner sides of her thighs sore from long horseback riding, but luckily she wasn''t injured.


    But what about that swordsman? Did they manage to save him in the end? Being directly teleported back, she had no idea how the system handled the aftermath.


    By now, the fourth wave of attacks from other players had ended, marking the official conclusion of the entire newbie tutorial. The chat channel messages had exploded long ago, even Athena''s private messages couldn''t escape.


    -- Phew, finally it''s over.


    -- Why did so many suddenly pop up? Almost thought I was going to die here.


    -- Hehehe, I''ve unlocked hidden rewards! You bunch of scrubs.


    -- Bragging will bring bad luck! Why do I only have a few white packages?


    The subtitles in the chat channel scrolled rapidly, even though the battle had ended quite a while ago, people still hadn''t fully recovered from the thrilling experience.


    To celebrate their survival, everyone flooded the chat channel with messages, asserting their presence. Almost everything on the trading panel was refreshed as well. With such a commotion, of course, some people noticed Athena.


    -- Wasn''t there someone called Big Dream before? Why has there been no activity from them recently? I mean, people like that can survive!


    -- Upstairs is really jealous, what does it matter to you if they don''t speak?


    -- I also think, what''s the use of showing off at the beginning? Ended up lying down anyway?


    -- Does anyone know how to obtain the Shelter Upgrade Blueprints?


    -- I heard that the successful ones in this tutorial were directly provided by the system, don''t know about other aspects.


    Although Athena wasn''t a bad person, she definitely wasn''t a good person either. Even though she couldn''t do anything right now, it didn''t stop her from scaring these people.


    -- Players can teleport each other, it''s just a matter of time. (Attached: Faction Teleportation Array Data)


    -- Haha, trouble''s brewing, boss remembers you all, boss, take me along!


    -- Boss, how come you''re really starting to explore the world, while we''re still stuck here, there''s more to this world! Please take me along!


    [ Bear Big ] sent you a message.


    [ Ask-the-Heavens ] sent you a message.


    [ Potato ] sent you a message.


    Athena had just made an appearance in the chat channel when her friends sent her messages one after another. She had originally planned to chat with them later, but it seemed she couldn''t escape now. After all, these two could potentially become her customers, and as the customer is the suspicious Ask-the-Heavens, she upheld this principle and opened the chat interface.


    First, she dealt with the more tricky one, Ask-the-Heavens.


    -- Big Dream, it''s been a while since I''ve seen you active. I knew you must be up to something big.


    -- How about it? Any intentions to sell to us? We''ve gained a lot from this recent event, and you can pick some items of equal value from us as a gesture of goodwill.


    Indeed, he was a businessman, constantly showering her with compliments before getting to the point.


    The other party has sent you an item listItem listFire Defense Tower Blueprintx1Wood Blocks999Stone Blocks999Special Weeds999Level 2 Shelter Blueprintx1Thorn Vine (Attack Type)x1Arrow Defense Tower Blueprintx1


    ...


    Athena opened it and found out these guys were really wealthy. It would be unfair of her not to take advantage of this opportunity to make a hefty profit from them.


    Of course, her intel was worth this price, after all, it was about a new world. As she leveled up, it would be essential to have access to it. Knowing information in advance could be both beneficial and harmless, even saving lives.


    Athena used all her literary skills and carefully crafted a 100-word mini-essay, describing her experiences and providing some useful information.


    This was her limit; some people just weren''t naturally gifted with language or literature skills.


    Congratulations on obtaining Arrow Defense Tower Blueprint x1, Fire Defense Tower Blueprint x1, Thorn Vine x1, Ore x50, and Giant Rabbit Meat x30.


    This harvest made Athena feel once again that being an information broker was the most lucrative.


    I wonder if [ Ask-the-Heavens ] knows that upgrading to a Level 3 Shelter requires ore? She used to worry about where to find these things.


    Bear Big''s side was much simpler.


    -- Are you okay?


    Are you okay?


    These were multiple messages sent at different times. Athena was originally fine, but after seeing them, she felt like there might be something bothering her after all.


    --> I''m fine. Next time, you can greet me differently.


    As for Potato...


    -- Ahem, sorry, I''ve already withdrawn that trade offer, I''m not selling Air Walls for the time being.


    Don''t be angry, boss. There''s a reason for it. In the future, if there are good things, I''ll definitely come to you first!


    After so many days, the first snowfall finally stopped. Outside, the sun was shining brightly, with not a cloud in sight. Apart from some darker pits on the ground, there was no trace of snowflakes, as if the storm had taken everything away.


    Standing outside, Athena felt the rare joy of this sunny day. It wasn''t just the harvest that brought her joy; it was also the fact that she finally had a pair of shoes.


    Although the system had sent her back, there was a catch!


    But it didn''t return her clothes as a form of hidden reward. Her eyes had returned to their original black color, no longer golden.


    Now it was time to settle the bill! S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "System, open the inventory."


    The inventory was filled to the brim. Athena picked out the Snow Guardian and Snow Armguard and equipped them.


    Arm Defense +10Special defense effect:Unafraid of snowstorms, greatly improves resistance to snowstorms.


    The Snow Armguard was a pair of silver armguards with exquisite hollowed-out snowflake patterns on them, not to be underestimated.


    The Snow Guardian was extremely simple, a pure silver chain with a snowflake pendant hanging from it. The snowflake was a real one, just thicker and more three-dimensional. Athena tried putting it in her hand and found that it wouldn''t melt.


    The two pieces of equipment matched her gray clothes quite well. Standing upright in her military uniform with her ponytail tied high, Athena adjusted the position of the armguards.


    Then she placed her hand on her small wooden house.


    Does Ask-the-Heavens know that upgrading to a Level 3 Shelter requires ore?


    Would you like to use the Level 3 Shelter Blueprint


    Yes / No ?


    (Conditions met for use)


    "Yes"


    Consumes 300 Stone Blocks, 300 Wood Blocks, 300 Weeds, 50 Ore...


    A gentle white light flashed. Compared to the first time she upgraded the shelter, this time took a few seconds longer.


    Shelter upgraded to Level 3!


    The ordinary wooden cottage had now transformed into a stone house, with two additional wooden annexes on the side. The courtyard had doubled in size, and the wooden fences that once surrounded it had all been replaced with small stone walls.


    To Athena''s surprise, the pockmarked holes in the courtyard had all been smoothed out and leveled. What caught her off guard even more was that the system had created two lions made of woven weeds, standing on either side of the stone house.


    Without rushing to inspect the interior of the stone house and the wooden annexes, Athena once again took out the blueprint for the arrow defense tower. The previously acquired dual-headed cannon had already been automatically placed on the left, so Athena placed the arrow defense tower on the right.


    An arrow tower, similar in design to the cannon tower, was swiftly constructed, but equipped with arrowheads instead. Athena then retrieved the [ Thorn Vine ] she had obtained earlier and placed it on the ground, but there was no system prompt displayed. Athena circled the courtyard but received no system prompts. Tentatively, she placed it on the short stone wall.


    Confirm Placement


    Yes / No ?


    "Yes"


    Instantly, the low stone wall was covered with thorny vines, continuously winding and growing, with small pink flowers blooming on top, both aesthetically pleasing and possessing considerable attacking power.


    Next was her [ Level 1 Smelting Furnace ]. This thing had some degree of danger, so Athena didn''t want to place it in the main room; she chose the left wooden annex instead.


    Opening the left annex revealed a room resembling a combination of a bath and toilet, but without any water supply.


    Athena fell silent. If it weren''t for the system giving her a thorough cleaning while disguising herself, there wouldn''t be a spot on her that wasn''t dirty now.


    But she was already considered quite fortunate; at least she didn''t have various wounds infected. For most people here, just staying alive was their greatest aspiration.


    Few people pursued the highest quality of life, and there wasn''t enough water to use such amenities, so hygiene wasn''t guaranteed.


    But the system did consider quite comprehensively; at least it provided them with the necessary hardware, even if they had to build it with their own materials.


    Gently closing the door on the left, she walked to the right annex. Opening it revealed a workbench, with a wooden rack beside it. The remaining space was quite spacious, just enough to be used as a workshop. Athena took out the blueprint for the smelting furnace and tore it open, placing it in a relatively open area.


    A smelting furnace appeared on the ground, emitting a blazing fire.


    [ Level 1 Smelting Furnace ]Use:Throw what you need to melt into the charcoal fire.TipThe resources at Middle Link Road are broad, with each piece of wood lasting two minutes when burned. Please hurry up and make money.


    The first thing Athena did was to take out the two axes that had been dulled and thrown them into the furnace.


    Random Smelting in Progress...


    Please add 50 wood blocks.


    After adding 50 wood blocks, Athena didn''t pay any more attention to this side. Now she needed to go back and visit her room and have some food.


    As she walked into the stone house, the two grass lions at the door suddenly opened their eyes, alert to every movement around them. But when Athena approached, they were just ordinary decorations again.


    The overall layout of the room was not much different from what Athena had arranged before. The room hadn''t expanded again; it was just that the original wooden house had become a stone one.


    The windows were still the same standard wooden ones, but there was now one on each side.


    Her bed had turned into a 2-meter wooden bed, adorned with many grassy little animals. There were three in total: a rabbit, a panda, and a kitten, all in mini versions.


    Sitting back on the bed, Athena had no intention of eating some compressed biscuits just to get by. She neatly arranged the seven white packages she had previously obtained in front of her.


    Now was the time to unpack, but the fonts alone didn''t give her a sense of excitement.


    Total of seven white packages, with a harvest of: five mineral waters, five compressed biscuits, 50 wood blocks, and two axes.


    Seeing these prompts, Athena instantly lost interest. After quickly opening the packages, she stuffed everything into her space. She knew she wouldn''t get anything good, except for the axes.

 0024 – Encountering the Black Phosphorus Snake Again

    0024 ¨C Encountering the Black Phosphorus Snake AgainAs her most handy weapon, the axe naturally had its benefits. As her only growing weapon, she couldn''t neglect practicing with the bow and arrow.


    Athena Ravencroft planned her schedule, realizing the need to quickly improve her physical fitness. Otherwise, even with sufficient experience points, she wouldn''t be able to enhance her attributes.


    Rare moments of leisure inside the house left her feeling somewhat uncomfortable.


    Outside, the accumulated snow was melting away, yet the temperature hadn''t officially warmed up, so the two stoves in the house continued to operate as usual.


    Whether that black phosphorus snake was still alive or not...


    Pushing open the stone house door, Athena felt destined for labor. With a bow and arrow in hand, she intended to hunt the snake.


    It would be best if it were dead, but if not, she would generously send it on its way. It was also an opportunity to explore, as she had spent these past few days either fighting monsters or on the road to do so.


    The melted snow mixed with mud, making the ground soggy. Walking atop it in her leather boots, Athena felt an unprecedented sense of freedom. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her experience of walking barefoot had left a deep impression on her. She even wondered if she would develop a habit of sleeping with shoes on in the future.


    The outside air was refreshing, devoid of the smoke of gunfire. Despite the recent heavy snow, the forest remained lush, seemingly unaffected.


    Returning to where she had previously cut grass, she found no familiar humanoid grass pit; all the grass had reverted to its original state overnight. The tree broken by the long-tailed bear had also reverted to its original form.


    Athena continued walking into the forest.


    If everything had refreshed, had the purple dream buds also refreshed? Gathering some wool would be useful; it was quite handy, though not very convenient to carry.


    Thinking differently, she might crush it into juice to carry with her. When encountering enemies, she could throw it into their mouths or directly apply it to wounds, much better than sprinkling salt on wounds.


    The rustling sound from the nearby woods instantly put Athena on alert. She aimed her arrow in the direction of the sound.


    A rabbit darted out swiftly and was shot by Athena''s arrow.


    Before she could marvel at the fact that small animals had refreshed, a black python emerged, swiftly snatching the rabbit in its mouth and fleeing.


    Even the arrow shot by Athena was dodged.


    The speed was astonishing, truly showing the diversity of the world.


    ...Wasn''t that the black phosphorus snake from before?


    Black Phosphorus Snake (One Shedding)Level3Strength2Defense10SkillConstriction


    If she guessed correctly, this snake had regained its life through shedding its skin. However, one thing puzzled her: if she remembered correctly, its strength seemed to be more than 2 points before. Did its strength decrease after evolution?


    The Black Phosphorus Snake (One Shedding)


    Extremely dislikes and fears humanoid creatures living in wooden houses.


    During evolution, special changes occur, reducing strength in exchange for higher defense and speed.


    Faster than a rabbit. However, it was a significant threat that had to be eliminated. Athena decided to pursue it, not out of arrogance, but because her current attributes indeed overwhelmed the black phosphorus snake.


    It ran fast, but she wasn''t slow either.


    Following the traces along the grass, Athena quickly found the snake, which was busy devouring the rabbit she had hunted.


    Seeing her, it immediately stopped eating, even regurgitating the half-swallowed rabbit. It curled up, ready to strike at any moment.


    Standing at a safe distance, Athena raised her hand and shot an arrow, successfully hitting the snake''s tail.


    It let out a painful hiss, gathering strength, then, before Athena could shoot another arrow, it darted away at an incredible speed.


    Choosing to flee again, Athena swiftly pursued. While chasing, she didn''t forget to shoot arrows, although many missed due to the snake''s speed, two still hit its body.


    The black phosphorus snake seemed to realize it couldn''t escape. It changed direction again, attempting to return to where it had just been eating the rabbit.


    Athena didn''t know what it was planning, but she wouldn''t let it pass. As the distance closed, she switched from the bow and arrow to the axe.


    The black phosphorus snake charged, and Athena swung her axe at its long body.


    To her surprise, the snake didn''t dodge or evade, charging straight ahead. Athena successfully chopped off its tail.


    Blood gushed from the wound, and the severed tail wriggled on the ground. But it had already escaped, and Athena didn''t have time to deal with the remaining tail; she continued chasing.


    To her surprise, the snake ran even faster without its tail.


    Finally, they returned to where she had caught the rabbit. The snake darted into a hole, and Athena narrowly missed it with an arrow.


    As the saying goes, "The cunning rabbit has three burrows," but who knows who will end up benefiting from whom.


    Athena stood at the entrance of the rabbit hole, feeling troubled. It was obvious that she couldn''t go in. Flooding it with water was impossible, as her own water supply wasn''t sufficient. Smoking it out wasn''t feasible either; smoking would take time, and darkness was approaching soon.


    Standing at the entrance, Athena''s expression was blank. She had been played by a snake.


    Returning to her small stone house with a heavy heart, the thorny vines on the low stone wall seemed to sense their owner''s bad mood and hastily bloomed with flowers.


    Surprised, Athena casually said, "If only they were red."


    Unexpectedly, the flowers actually started changing color, turning red.


    She stood still, pondering for a moment. Then, she spoke again, "If only they were blue." As expected, the flowers hurriedly changed to blue.


    Clearing her throat, Athena looked up at the sky and sighed, "It''s been so long since I''ve seen a rainbow. If only there were flowers in rainbow colors, how wonderful that would be."


    The flowers began changing colors again, but no matter what, they couldn''t turn into rainbow colors.


    "Hahahahaha." It was Athena''s laughter.


    The flowers, which had been changing colors, stopped abruptly. They all turned in a strange direction, facing Athena.


    If it were anyone else, they would have been too scared to speak.


    Seeing so many flowers looking at her, Athena adjusted her expression and said, "If I were to say that I didn''t know you could change colors and it wasn''t intentional, would you believe me?"


    The once brightly colored flowers closed their petals, turning into small buds and quietly resting on the vines.


    Well, they were angry.


    But in the beginning, she had just spoken with a probing intent; who would have known these fellows actually had consciousness? It couldn''t be considered deceiving them, could it?


    "Thanks, I feel much better now."


    The flower buds turned away from her in another direction.


    Shaking her head, Athena walked into the courtyard.

 0025 – Grass Animals

    0025 ¨C Grass Animals"Getting angry isn''t going to solve anything. Always keeping your head down, can you really run away from it all?" The two small stone lions at the door saw their master return and quickly stood up straight at the entrance.


    Athena Ravencroft keenly noticed that one of the grass lions originally had its right front leg slightly ahead of the left. As she glanced over, the grass lion quietly shifted its left front leg, aligning both front legs on the same level.


    Athena held onto some unrealistic thoughts. Could this group of guys all have self-awareness?


    Soon her thoughts were validated, as the other lion stared at the lion that moved its leg with an envious gaze.


    "What are you looking at? Are you standing properly yourself?!" With a sudden loud shout, she could clearly see the grass lion that glanced at the lion beside it startled.


    Indeed... this world truly lived up to being a crazy place, even grass-made things had come to life, what else was impossible?


    "Alright, guard the door properly. I won''t hold it against you two this time."


    The two small grass lions looked at each other, realizing they had been discovered. After initially being frightened, they started frolicking happily after Athena closed the door.


    Athena sighed as she opened the door, forgetting she still had a few grass-made dolls on her bed that the system had given her as gifts. She hadn''t paid much attention to them, finding the system quite childish.


    Now she realized these things were a kind of special reward, but if they were discovered late at night, it would be quite terrifying. This reward was really not something ordinary people could bear.


    Glancing at the poses and arrangements of these grass animals, identical to when she left, she figured it must have been quite hard work.


    What was this about? Were they afraid she, as a player, would go crazy staying here?


    She absentmindedly took out the giant rabbit meat she had exchanged from the ask-the-heavens''s group and threw it on the fire to roast. Sprinkling a little salt, the aroma of roasted rabbit meat gradually spread in the room.


    Athena sniffed, enjoying the enticing fragrance. It was time to change the taste after eating bear meat for so long.


    As for the rabbit that had been swallowed by the black phosphorus snake earlier, sorry, she didn''t have the courage to retrieve and eat it.


    Several pairs of eyes behind her stared at her, making her very uncomfortable.


    She tore off a slightly burnt piece of rabbit meat and put it in her mouth, savoring it carefully.


    With each piece she ate, the gaze behind her intensified. She turned her head to look back, only to find that the group on the bed was resisting the temptation very well, remaining motionless.


    She slowly turned her head back, then suddenly turned it again, catching the three little guys on the bed off guard.


    The three little guys on the bed, realizing they had been discovered, started jumping around the bed in panic, squeaking and chirping.


    The sound was unpleasant, furrowing Athena''s brow, her veins bulging.


    "Shut up!"


    "...Do you guys want some?"


    Upon hearing the offer of food, the three little animals immediately rushed over eagerly. Athena looked suspiciously at the little rabbit among them.


    "Rabbit? Would even a grass rabbit eat rabbit?"


    As if in response to her words, the little rabbit jumped up and bit off a piece of meat similar in size to itself from her hand, then went to a corner and began gnawing on it.


    The other two didn''t have the courage of this grass rabbit, only squatting pitifully at Athena''s feet, looking up at her.


    Athena tore off another small piece and handed it to them, and the three little ones huddled together in the corner.


    So what exactly were these things? Were they just pets that needed her to feed them?


    Loyalty +5Loyalty +3Loyalty +3Grass Animal Loyalty Increased, can be commanded!


    Explore more functions yourself.


    Grass Animal initial loyalty points are 60.


    Grass Cat:Agile hunter in the dark of night, can be used for reconnaissance in the dark.Grass RabbitSpecial carrying capacity, maybe you can use it to transport goods.Grass PandaDon''t be fooled by its appearance, it''s a bear, can assist in combat by enlarging itself.


    ...They all seemed quite useful.


    "Rabbit," Athena tentatively called out.


    The grass rabbit, somehow, swallowed the piece of meat similar in size to itself directly, without any change in size.


    Hopping over to Athena, the grass rabbit gestured for Athena to take out a wooden block from her spatial backpack.


    "Can this be transported to the smelting furnace?"


    The volume of the wooden block was several times that of the grass rabbit, but the little rabbit simply signaled for Athena to place the wooden block on its back.


    After comparing the sizes of the two, Athena ultimately chose to trust the system and tentatively placed the wooden block on the rabbit''s back. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The wooden block seemed to be tightly adhered to the rabbit''s back as if by some force, and no matter how the rabbit hopped, it wouldn''t fall off.


    Athena opened the door for the rabbit, and it hopped out towards the direction of the smelting furnace. From Athena''s perspective, she could only see a piece of wood moving.


    Smelting Furnace Wooden Block +1


    "What the heck?"


    With the sound of the prompt, the rabbit was on its way back. Athena shifted her gaze to the grass cat, but she''d have to wait until night to try that out.


    She grabbed the grass cat by the nape and took a few steps back, then said to the grass panda in place, "Enlarge!"


    With a bang and a puff of smoke, the small grass panda disappeared from where it was, replaced by a normal-sized panda.


    The panda didn''t seem to feel anything about suddenly growing larger, just looking at the piece of meat in her hand that had become much smaller with a pitiful expression.


    Keeping such a huge creature in the room was indeed not very suitable, and its appetite would increase after growing larger.


    "Shrink!"


    After waiting for a few seconds, there was no change. The grass panda still pitifully eyed its meat.


    Automatically shrinks after 30 minutes.


    She almost thought she was going to raise a big eater.


    The little ones were running wild in the room, occasionally gathering together to point and chat.


    They all retained their original animal traits, so the cat would still groom itself like a normal cat. At this moment, the rabbit couldn''t help but approach, then after being scratched a few times, it would dodge away with a pitiful look, only to approach again, repeating this process happily.


    Finally, being chased by the cat around the room, Athena, stirring the soup in the pot and occasionally tasting it, was suddenly jumped on by the cat, knocking her head.


    The soup in her hand spilled out.


    "..."


    She calmly wiped off the soup from her hand and silently took out an axe from the spatial backpack.


    The three troublemakers, who had been causing a ruckus, instantly froze, obediently returning to the bed to act as decorations.


    Darkness is encroaching upon the world, 10, 9, 8... 0Due to the successful completion of the beginner tutorial by the players, the version has been successfully updated.


    Current survival count: 4366/10000


    Survival count exceeds 1/3, area remains independent and will not merge.All delayed rewards are now being issued. Please check your inventory, players.Next round of tower defense, tomorrow at 12:00!


    Please prepare yourselves, as monsters will randomly respawn and there will no longer be prompts for each round of monster-related information.


    For more updates, please check the system panel.

 0026 – Top Player Rankings and Version Update

    0026 ¨C Top Player Rankings and Version UpdateSo much information conveyed only one thing: the system had been updated, and they were now officially out of the beginner phase.


    After leaving the beginner phase, an increase in difficulty was unavoidable, but what surprised everyone was that today''s round of offense and defense had just ended, and another one was scheduled for tomorrow at noon. Furthermore, the system would no longer provide information about the monsters in future offensive and defensive rounds.


    Athena was surprised by this information, but what caught her attention more was "Independent Region." Opening the system panel, a new function called "Region" was added to the top right corner. Clicking on it revealed a long list of rankings. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At the top was Athena herself, followed by someone named "Black Planet," and third was a string of gibberish. Scrolling down, she quickly found familiar names. Fourth was "Ask-The-Heavens," and seventh was "Big Bear."


    The rankings were based on overall performance. Athena tried clicking on her own ranking, but there was only a brief system evaluation.


    -- Big Dream --Region Number004 (Independent Region)AttributesNot VisibleIntroductionA person who walks an unconventional path, wielding an axe. Running away is her best choice.


    What kind of evaluation was this?


    Athena tried to modify it but found that these things couldn''t be changed. Only when she clicked on the region number did a new window pop up, showing a total of 98 nearby regions. Each region had its own number, followed by indicators of whether it was independent or merged.


    Clicking on other regions prompted a message saying they were not open or visible.


    Detected as the number one in the overall ranking of Region 004, partial region permissions are granted to you.


    When Athena clicked on other region again, they were no longer invisible. She could see the overall rankings of other regions and the geographical environments most people belonged to in those areas.


    However, just browsing briefly didn''t benefit her much at the moment, and organizing data wasn''t a very good activity for her.


    Considering the current situation, there would definitely be region wars or activities in the future. Knowing oneself and the enemy would ensure victory.


    Athena think for a while and decided, she chose to use her own permissions and designated Ask-The-Heavens to share permissions with despite the skepticisms. She held the dominant position in this permission, able to revoke it at any time.


    Another additional function of the system was the Monster Guide. However, this Monster Guide didn''t show all monsters; only those she had defeated would appear in it, akin to a trading card collection.


    At the bottom was a share button, allowing her to share information about defeated monsters with others.


    Turning to the page of the Snowstorm Beast, because this page was different from the others, it was a golden paper.


    [ Gold Card Page ]Introduction:Participated in special events, entered special instances. Has a certain degree of exploration behind the origins of monsters and can unlock the golden card page for this monster.


    It also has a tracking function and can track this monster to its unique instance.


    Requires one World Stone


    This function was triggered because Athena had previously participated in special events and completed faction tasks. Next time she obtained a World Stone, she could return to that instance based on the golden paper page.


    That was all the content of the system update. And the rewards she had received for completing the faction tasks before the system update, delayed due to the update, had finally arrived in her mailbox.


    There were two packages in the mailbox, one emitting a golden light, and the other a blue light.


    She opened the golden package.


    Experience Points +500


    Athena took out the blue package, and a prompt in purple font followed.


    Blue Flash Package, contains Mobile Earth Wall


    This earth wall was the one Athena and the others had used in their battle against the monsters before. If used properly, its effect would be greater than that of normal weapons.


    Next Round Monsters: Iron Beetle[ Iron Beetle ]Level3Strength2Defense5SkillSteel Shell, extremely high defense, impervious to water and fire.WeaknessAfraid of impacts.


    Well, there was no need to say more, things were getting steady again. But according to the previous lesson, she had to be more stable, not showing too much aggression, or she might be mobbed by these guys again.


    Or just wipe them all out at once, not giving them a chance to send any messages.


    The monsters here aren''t just blindly aggressive; on the contrary, they all possess a certain level of intelligence. If one displays excessive attack power like last time, those guys will directly choose to call for reinforcements.


    Athena plans to see how these guys fare tomorrow. If they''re easily killed, she can take the risk of letting them call for reinforcements to gain more experience points. Moreover, more monsters would help her become more skilled in using her bow and axe, serving as a form of training.


    She hadn''t forgotten that she needed to prioritize body training, and attribute points definitely needed to be added. But she couldn''t afford to be as reckless as last time; who knows, she might end up dead from overexertion.


    Hopefully, most players have acquired some capital this time. Tomorrow''s time is tight, and many people may regret not preparing more supplies.


    Last time, the Snowstorm Beast brought the scene with it, posing greater danger, which is why there was temporary compensation. However, this time, with the Iron Beetle, there wasn''t any.


    After a round of battles in a snow storm, many unprepared individuals depleted their resources. This round might be even tougher.


    Strange, why the Lost Soul getting later and later? Before, it used to arrive whenever darkness fell, but now it''s always past midnight.


    There was even one time it didn''t come at all. Although Athena didn''t inquire last time, it didn''t mean she wasn''t concerned. It''s not that she cared about the guy who lives in darkness every day, but she worried about any major changes that might occur. Just because that guy was forced to sign a contract doesn''t mean he''s powerless. Darkness is their home turf.


    Athena absentmindedly teased the three small grass animals, leaving the other two exhausted while the little panda remained eager, its eyes shining as it stared at the roasted meat in Athena''s hand.


    "Ah¡ª"


    "Roar!"


    Different roars echoed in the silent night, sounding particularly abrupt.


    Athena stayed in the house, casually tossing the roasted meat to the hungry little panda, ignoring the resentful gazes of the other two, and went out.


    At this hour, the only thing that would trigger the system''s and the purple font''s warnings would be the Lost Soul. The eerie cries, just like the ones when she trapped the Lost Soul in her house before, made it clear.


    As soon as she opened the door, she saw two grass lions confronting the now harmless Lost Soul.


    Their sharp claws were tightly gripping the ground, fur standing on end, eyes flashing with ferocity, and sharp teeth bared.


    The sound of the wooden door opening startled both sides, and the Lost Soul quickly shrank back to appear harmless again. Meanwhile, the two grass lions became even more agitated at their master''s arrival.

 0027 – Just Ran Away

    0027 ¨C Just Ran Away"Don''t kill them," Athena calmly took away the parchment from the lost soul''s hands while saying leisurely.


    The lost soul knew its little trick had been discovered, quietly retracting the spreading black threads on the ground. Only then did Athena open the parchment.


    "Something terrible coming?" Athena frowned, staring at the parchment intently, contemplating interrogating the lost soul for clarification.


    But the lost soul agilely dodged her oppressive gaze, shaking its heads repeatedly, indicating it knew what she wanted to ask.


    Under Athena''s scrutinizing gaze, the lost soul still spoke up, its voice still tender.


    "I really don''t know, I just feel the darkness stirring recently, and it''s terrifying!" Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After staring at it for a while, realizing she couldn''t inquire further, Athena returned the parchment to the lost soul. She truly feared this guy would be so ''broke'' that he wouldn''t even have parchment for the next message delivery.


    After the lost soul left, Athena patted the heads of the two lions as encouragement and returned to her room.


    Something terrible?


    It shouldn''t refer to the iron beetles; what could it be? Even the lost soul didn''t feel afraid of the last nest.


    A white package will refresh 1km northeast


    While Athena contemplated, the purple text issued familiar prompts once again. Seeing Athena unaffected, still lost in thought, the purple text issued another prompt.


    A white package will refresh 1km northeast, survival probability 50%


    "It''s too late to go out risking it." A white package, if it were blue or gold, she might consider it herself. But despite her recent exploits, the risk in this case was too high for some unknown reason. Probably a monster far stronger than her? Anyway, no sane person will bet their life on a toss coin.


    The ball of grass twirled around Athena''s legs persistently, even when she pushed it away, it came back relentlessly.


    "Meow~ Meow Meow~"


    When it came back, it didn''t forget to slap the rabbit over and then meowed at Athena with innocent eyes, a real sly cat. Meanwhile, it ran back and forth between Athena and the wooden door.


    Athena understood its intention, picking it up from mid-air as it attempted to pass through the door.


    "No." A cold statement shattered the grass ball cat''s as it lay on the ground, whimpering.


    The grass ball cat could move in the darkness without being corroded by it, coupled with the rabbit''s ability to carry weight, sending them out together might actually bring the package back.


    "This time, we don''t know if there are monsters accompanying the package. Sending you out is asking for trouble."


    Hearing this, the grass ball cat excitedly dragged the panda over again.


    Fight, transport, reconnaissance, can they go out now?


    Unfortunately, Athena''s gaze remained cold. Of course, she believed they could bring the package back. But it''s just a white package, and these three little ones are precious assets themselves, plus their loyalty, though it has increased significantly, it''s still below 80.


    There is a chance of defection when loyalty is below 80.


    The three huddled together, each more mournful than the other, one more plaintive than the next, like they were holding a criticism meeting against Athena.


    There are barriers around, if the three of them escape, it would take some time to catch them again, although it would be troublesome.


    But trust is mutual...


    Athena finally left the three of them at the door, "If you encounter enemies you can''t beat, run away quickly."


    That''s acquiescence.


    Opening a crack in the door, they bounced out joyfully.


    Once again, she wrote down the received information on the slate with charcoal, waiting for almost half an hour, and they still hadn''t returned.


    Athena wasn''t worried, leaving a small crack in the door, she chose to enter the realm of dreams.


    Before the morning sun could enter the room, Athena felt shortness of breath and chest tightness, abruptly awakened.


    Opening her eyes, she stared firmly at several creatures bouncing back and forth on the bed, occasionally jumping over her belly. She beat each one and put them in the corner, facing the wall.


    There was a white package there, brought back by the three little ones after Athena fell asleep last night.


    Inside the white package: 1 bottle of mineral water, 1 compressed biscuit.


    A standard reward.


    Athena unpacked the package in front of them, placing the items in front of them.


    "It''s yours." Athena said calmly, although it was they who found it.


    The three of them happily circled around their harvest.


    While boiling water in the pot, Athena did a set of exercises, then went out to practice archery. Returning, she prepared a hearty breakfast, intending to cook lean meat porridge with the rice she got earlier.


    Smelting completed.


    Thinking about the axe she threw into the smelter yesterday, Athena entered the small wooden hut on the right. Reaching out above the smelting furnace, a pop-up window appeared.


    Receive 2 pieces of iron,


    Yes / No ?


    Athena successfully obtained two pieces of iron and inspected their descriptions.


    [ Iron ] Description:Can be used to forge desired weapons, upgrade specified items, or you can sell them to the system market. Price:1 Silver coinAcquisition method:Can be obtained by smelting iron products and iron ore.


    This was the first time Athena had seen an item priced for direct sale to the system market. Although items like wood blocks and weeds can be sold to the system, their prices are extremely low. 1 silver coin equals 100 copper coins, how much can she buy with that?


    And with the five pieces of iron ore she obtained earlier, Athena took them all out and chose to smelt them.


    Estimated to obtain ten pieces of iron.


    She hit the jackpot, she could sell as much of this iron ore as she wanted, she had been eyeing the items in the system market for a long time. And because the special mission had ended, all the items in the system, like blankets, were back on sale.


    As well as the three special ores she had obtained before, and the remaining 20 ores, she eagerly took out these two types of ores and placed them on the workbench, trying to smelt them next to the furnace.


    Smelting furnace level insufficient, please upgrade!


    She thought she could get rich overnight, but she still fell short. Thinking from another angle, she couldn''t smelt them now, it must be because these two types of ores were more valuable.


    This kind of ore, named [Ore], was transparent white yet exceptionally sturdy. Athena initially suspected it was diamond, but later dismissed that idea.


    As far as she knew, this ore could only be used to upgrade the level three shelter, she didn''t know anything else about it.


    As for the special ore, its information was even more of a series of question marks. As for the two pieces of iron she smelted first, Athena chose to sell them to the system and received two silver coins.


    Countdown: 02.06.36


    With over two hours left, Athena browsed through the system store.


    Quilt (Ten kilograms)Price1 Silver coinBlanket(Ten kilograms)Price3 Silver coinsLighterPrice50 Silver coinsFlame Enhancer (Primary)Price8 Copper coinsCooling Wind ChimePrice10 Silver coinsDescriptionHang it indoors and there will be air conditioning indoors, using it in cold weather will surely make you sick.


    With only 2 silver coins in her hand, she once again felt impoverished, because many things in the system had dropped in price after the scene ended, and the lighter had dropped from 1 gold coin to half price, 50 silver coins!


    Finally, she spent 1 silver coin to buy a quilt, 49 flame enhancers, two pairs of grass shoes, and various seasonings, spending every penny.


    Why not buy all flame enhancers?


    Flame Enhancer (Primary)Price:2 Silver coinsWhen each item reaches the purchase limit, the price increases significantly!


    After so long, she finally had a quilt, but unfortunately, she couldn''t use it now because of the scorching weather outside. Sleeping on a grass mat was cooler.

 0028 – Iron Beetles

    0028 ¨C Iron BeetlesBack in the room, she tidied up her belongings and took out three furniture blueprints she had obtained before, including a reclining chair, a table, and a shelf.


    Tearing open the blueprints cost a corresponding amount of wood blocks, and three simple wooden pieces of furniture appeared in the room.


    The reclining chair and table were placed by Athena beside the window, while the shelf was placed next to the frequently used stove.


    Looking around, she found that the only thing she could put on the shelf was her only pot, so she simply placed it directly on the fire or on the ground as before.


    The shelf was a simple four-tiered one. She took out a bundle of hay from her backpack, spread it evenly on the shelf after dispersing it, and then took out a straw mat and divided it into three parts to put in.


    A simple nesting frame was completed, and the three animals watching the scene on the ground were put in one by one.


    The cat was on top, the rabbit in the middle, and the panda at the bottom.


    "This will be your beds from now on."


    The three animals looked at the wooden bed together, and Athena smiled and shook her head at them.


    "The shelf has living creatures, the wooden bed has dead ones."


    After the lean meat porridge was cooked and taken off the fire to cool, she warned the three who were trying to rebel once again, timing it just right.


    Countdown: 00.00.06Monster Respawned!


    A small normal black hole appeared at the periphery of Athena''s courtyard, and the first round of five Iron Beetles crawled out of it, making a rustling sound.


    Each one was half a meter long, with jagged joints, triangular heads, silver bodies, and a pair of green eyes.


    The six-legged creatures crawled swiftly on the ground, with the cannon tower firing shots, and the arrow tower shooting arrows.


    Athena herself pulled her bow and shot an arrow as well.


    Originally, there were five, but only one remained instantly. However, the corpse of this monster did not dissipate this time but remained in place, in a pickable state.


    The remaining one was tightly entangled by the surrounding thorny vines, unable to be harmed due to its hard shell but already disabled, and Athena delivered the final blow to it.


    Experience Points +5


    The battle was just a momentary thing, happening so fast that even the teleportation array didn''t have time to close. The first round of monsters was over, and Athena''s backpack had gained the corpses of Iron Beetles.


    Although she already knew the relevant information about Iron Beetles, even more detailed than what the system knew, collecting cards was still a kind of fun.


    After the system version update, the refresh time for each round of monsters was shortened from two hours to one hour. But for Athena, one hour was enough time to do many things.


    First round over, second round of monsters will arrive in one hour.


    Athena stepped forward and picked up the five bodies with the system backpack. She exerted some force to tap one of the Iron Beetles'' shells, and unexpectedly, it cracked open.


    As the purple system had said, the shells of the Iron Beetles were indeed brittle. Items collected into the backpack could be viewed for detailed information. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Iron Beetle CorpseIntroduction:Perhaps you can throw it into the smelting furnace to try it out.


    Every five can yield one piece of iron.


    Seeing this prompt, Athena''s eyes instantly lit up.


    What a great item! It would be nice to have more.


    This reminded her of the Monster Summoning Scroll that Potato had sold her before. The guy had said he would save some for her in the future, not sure if it was true or not, she thought she''d ask.


    At this point in the offensive and defensive time, the chat channel was never short of people, many of whom didn''t forget to update their chat channel dynamics while fighting monsters, making this place a circle of friends.


    Regional chat channel --


    -- Wow, the monsters have respawned. My goodness, they''re silver! Is it silver?


    -- So cool, so cool, so cool!


    -- It''s deadly! It''s gonna kill people!


    -- What''s going on, there were only two in the first round before, why are there five now?


    -- Such big and crawling bugs, so disgusting!


    -- One has been defeated here, and the information obtained is ''Iron Beetle''


    -- Good people, have a safe life!


    -- Help, why are they so hard to kill? My fire attribute tower, the fire cannon doesn''t even work on it!


    -- Hey, is that true? I have a normal cannon tower, one shot and it''s dead. Are you sure yours is a fire attribute tower?


    -- Haha, I''ve already killed the second one.


    Opening her friends list, the chat record with Potato was still from the last time.


    --> Still alive? Do you have the Monster Summoning Scrolls?


    Athena nodded satisfactorily. This sentence not only expressed her concern and greetings to the other party but also directly stated her purpose.


    -- Yes, still alive! Big Dream, no Monster Summoning Scrolls but I''ve recently found another scroll that''s quite useful. Want to take a look?Acceleration Scroll (Half an Hour)Description:Used to speed up time during offense and defense. Can only be used to shorten monster respawn time. [From a strange man who knows where to get all kinds of scrolls.]


    The refresh time is meant for players to recover and prepare more, and one hour is still okay, just wait a bit and it''ll pass. But this kind of scroll is very suitable for those who want to quickly finish off the monsters in one go, and it''s also suitable for impatient people like Athena.


    In truth, Athena was a bit tempted. She didn''t want to spend the whole day waiting for the monsters to respawn in the courtyard.


    --> How much is it?


    -- You''re a new customer here, so I''ll give you a 20% discount. You must know about the system currency, right?


    --> Although players still mostly barter among themselves now, I believe that system currency will be the common currency for transactions in the future.


    -- So my price isn''t high, eight copper coins per scroll.


    One scroll equaled the price of a sickle, but how could a sickle compare to a scroll?


    --> How many scrolls do you have in total?


    -- I knew you would ask that, but there''s a purchase limit here, ten scrolls per person!


    Potato hugged his treasure chest and laughed wildly. Although he only had ten scrolls in total, others didn''t know, which didn''t stop him from saying so.


    Soon, he couldn''t laugh anymore because Athena didn''t immediately respond to him. He nervously rubbed his hands and said, "She won''t decline, will she?"


    His scrolls were in an awkward situation; many people were not interested, and those who were interested could hardly afford them. Only a few, like Athena, were both interested and able to buy them.


    In short, his scrolls all had a common trait: they were obtainable but not necessary.


    "When I give her a cheaper price?" Potato muttered to himself as he hugged his precious scroll chest. He used to be an otaku obsessed with anime culture, and he had specifically bought a chest to store his various collections. When he came through, he was admiring it.


    Unexpectedly, when he arrived, everything in the chest disappeared, but his chest underwent a mutation. It became a scroll chest, which could be opened daily to randomly obtain ten scrolls.


    Although most were junk scrolls, sometimes there were blank ones. But at least it made him a little richer. Just when he thought this deal was going to fail, Athena sent him a message.


    -- Okay, I''ll take them all.


    --> Okay, okay, thank you for your patronage!


    -- I''ll send you the copper coins after this round of monsters is over.


    In fact, Athena had just gone to the smelting furnace to see if the smelting was done. She didn''t have a single copper coin on her now and could only rely on selling iron to the system to make money.

 0029 – Acceleration

    0029 ¨C AccelerationTransaction SuccessfulAcceleration Scroll (30 minutes) x10Athena held the scrolls in her hand, tearing open two of them outside the courtyard. The monster respawn timer didn''t reset immediately, instead, a dialogue box popped up.


    Increase Difficulty


    Yes / No ?


    Upon increasing, each use of this scroll increases the difficulty by 10%, and activates bonus rewards!Using the Acceleration Scroll (30 minutes) multiple times enables achieving an S rating.


    Since she had already used them, she intended to make them worthwhile. It was indeed a pleasant surprise. Achieving an S rating often depended not only on strength but also on luck, difficulty and overall performance.


    "Yes"


    Second round of monsters refreshed!


    The dark vortex at the entrance began to slowly rotate, and twenty-two iron-armored beasts crawled out, densely spreading towards her. The thorn vines at the stone railing quickly grew and entangled their legs, binding them one by one.


    The turrets automatically targeted those not entangled, while Athena shot arrows at the iron-armored beasts. A gap appeared in their tight formation.


    One of the iron-armored beasts quietly retreated while the others pushed forward, intending to return to the teleportation gate. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena spotted it immediately, aiming her bow to shoot.


    Special Event:Returning Messenger. Doubling Boss-level units.Guaranteed S+ rating upon completion![ Iron-Armored Beetle (Boss) ]Level:5Strength:13Defense:7Skill:SwiftTemporary Buff from Iron-armored Beetle''s Swift Skill: Defense doubled! Strength +2!


    The purple texts and system constantly emphasized the S+ rating. Athena had only achieved this rating twice before. The first time was in the Lost Souls Event, and the rewards were not particularly good. The second time was during a faction mission, where she gained the Guardian of Snow and Snow Armguards.


    Doubling the Boss-level units wasn''t unreasonable; the attributes were comparable to the long-tailed bear she had encountered before. With her improved stats and the presence of turrets and archers, Athena chose to let this messenger go.


    She adjusted her aim and shot at another iron-armored beast.


    Special Event Triggered! Messenger, third round of doubling Boss-level units


    Guarding the tower this time was still relatively smooth. It took a bit more time due to the increased number, but overall, there were no losses.


    None of the iron-armored beasts even entered the courtyard; they were firmly held back by the thorn vines outside the gate.


    The profits were good; all twenty-two iron-armored beasts'' bodies were thrown to the side of the smelting furnace by Athena. Even melting down everything now was already a significant task.


    She tore open two more scrolls.


    Third round of monsters refreshed!Due to player Big Dream''s special event triggers, Boss-level units have doubled to two!


    The vortex spun, and two iron-armored beetles crawled out from the portal. They looked similar to regular ones, but their shells had a more metallic sheen, resembling a general''s armor.


    They quickly crawled towards Athena''s courtyard gate, while the turrets and archers fired simultaneously at the two!


    Athena readied her bow, expecting a battle of attrition. However, she noticed something unusual: the shells on the back of the iron-armored beetles split open, revealing a pair of cicada wings. As the turret''s attacks came, they flew up, carried by the wind, straight towards Athena.


    Swift!


    The thorn vines swiftly caught one of their hind legs, pulling it down, while Athena switched from arrows to her axe as she rolled on the ground, avoiding the attack. She swung her axe, but the opponent dodged deftly.


    The two lion grass balls guarded the door tightly, showing their sharp teeth, attempting to jump and attack, but they couldn''t reach high enough.


    The iron-armored beetles barely spared them a glance, not wasting time on them.


    Despite being entangled in vines, one iron-armored beetle still tried to evade attacks and break free. With each tug, some vines seemed on the verge of snapping. Meanwhile, the other, having escaped Athena''s attacks several times, bypassed her and started attacking the house.


    It chose to start with the window, which, being made of wood, was easier to destroy than the stone walls.


    A glaring warning quickly appeared!


    Warning!


    Shelter repairs are difficult. Any damage may reduce nighttime defense capabilities!


    Losing the shelter means losing daytime protection.


    The player''s current strength is insufficient to survive in the darkness!


    Even without the system''s prompt, Athena couldn''t allow this intruder to damage her house. But the opponent was cunning; once she closed in, it swiftly ascended into the air.


    Although Athena had practiced archery for a long time, her skill wasn''t yet enough to consistently hit fast-moving airborne targets. She could only strike when the iron-armored beetle swooped down to attack the house.


    Meanwhile, the other iron-armored beetle was about to break free from its bonds. Dealing with one was already troublesome; if both attacked simultaneously, Athena wasn''t confident she could prevent damage to her house.


    As the enemy charged again towards the wooden house, Athena opened a crack in the door, and two figures swiftly leaped out.


    "Panda!" "Enlarge!" The grass ball panda suddenly transformed back into its normal size, no longer exhibiting its usual silly demeanor but appearing exceptionally fierce.


    It rushed towards the iron-armored beetle that was about to break free, extending its sharp claws to strike.


    Meanwhile, the other beetle continued its relentless assault on the wooden window. Athena landed a side axe blow on its shell, causing cracks to form after multiple strikes.


    Not wanting to stay and fight, it intended to fly into the sky. The grass ball cat agilely leaped beside it and, with remarkable agility, jumped onto its back, being carried into the air together.


    As the iron-armored beetle rotated in flight, attempting to shake off the grass ball cat, the cat''s claws firmly clung to its wings.


    "Screech!!!"


    The beetle emitted a piercing scream as the cat''s claws dug into its wings. Despite its attempts to shake off the cat, the movement only left a shallow mark on its own wings.


    Thrown off, the grass ball cat, Athena dashed forward to catch it, but it gracefully leaped onto the roof with a light bound. Then it agilely jumped back down beside her.


    Although it only left a shallow mark, the beetle''s flight became increasingly unstable.


    With its eerie green eyes locked onto Athena, the iron-armored beetle abandoned its continuous attack on the wooden window, turning to charge at her with swiftness.


    Without choosing to dodge, Athena stored her axe in her backpack, and as the beetle charged, she used both arms to block its biting mouth. It firmly sank its jaws into her left arm.


    With her left hand now free, Athena grabbed hold of the beetle, denying it any chance of escape.


    Snow Armguards :Arm Defense +10Special defense effect:Unfazed by snow and wind, significantly improves resistance to them.Title: Hunter (Equipped)(Locked)When fighting prey, Strength +10% (not applicable to use), Defense +5%Adjust your mindset; they''re just struggling prey!

 0030 – Successful Defense And Rewards

    0030 ¨C Successful Defense And RewardsThe power of the Iron Beetle''s mandibles increased, deforming the snow armguard as it bit down, continuously squeezing Athena''s right arm, causing her intense pain.


    "Aaargh!"


    "AAAAAHHHR!"


    With her left hand, she exerted force to grab the Iron Beetle''s wings and forcefully pull it backward with all of her strength, tearing off its wings.


    In pain, the Iron Beetle relaxed its mandibles and was flung to the ground by Athena.


    Immediately, she used her spatial backpack to retrieve the snow armguard squeezing her arm, then grabbed an axe and viciously smashed its flat side onto the struggling Iron Beetle''s body, causing its shell to crack open due to sheer impact.


    Experience Points +50


    Athena heard a notification sound and looked towards the courtyard gate. The Iron Beetle that had been entangled had broken free from the thorny vines, leaving scattered vines on the ground.


    The Grass Ball Panda rushed over, holding onto the Iron Beetle''s legs to prevent it from flying away. While protecting its head with one paw, it was occasionally bitten, curling up into a pitiful ball, showing no awareness of danger.


    Carrying her axe, Athena approached. Sensing the threat, the last Iron Beetle began to struggle frantically, held tightly by the Grass Ball Panda. Raising the axe and then lowering it, Athena stared at the immobilized Iron Beetle, a bold idea forming in her mind.


    Quickly, she stuffed a small piece of wood into the Iron Beetle''s mouth, which was easily crushed. Without hesitation, Athena stuffed a piece of ore into its mouth.


    Could a flying creature be tamed, and if so, how?


    Even with its mouth sealed shut, the Iron Beetle remained defiant. Athena signaled the Grass Ball Panda to give it a firm slam. The Iron Beetle stopped struggling, its emerald eyes gradually dimming until it finally perished. Knowing it couldn''t escape, it chose self-destruction in an unknown manner.


    Experience Points +50Tower monsters cannot be tamed!Congratulations to player [ Big Dream ] for completing the tower defense mission ahead of time!


    Basic rewards have been sent via mail!


    Special reward: Grass Ball Animal Skill x1


    This tower defense: S+ Rating!S+ evaluation achieved 3/3 times, receiving World Stone x1


    Athena was particularly concerned about the corpse of the Iron Beetle on the ground. The beliefs of the Snowstorm Beast, the self-destruction of the Iron Beetle, and the appearance of the Sun City¡ªall were different from the usual tower defense game.


    "Is this a normal tower defense?"


    This game is a normal tower defense game. Have a pleasant gaming experience!


    This time, the response was from the system, not in purple font. Athena didn''t inquire further, only calling the three little ones to help clean up the scene and move all the Iron Beetle corpses into the small wooden house.


    Arriving at the low stone wall, she picked up the scattered thorny vines and placed them at its base. The broken vines instantly melted into green juice, absorbed by the roots. The previously broken gap also regrew, and the tightly closed flower buds opened, blossoming into beautiful flowers.


    However, what surprised Athena was that among the flowers this time, one had actually bloomed in rainbow colors, dazzling and magnificent. Athena gently touched the petals with her intact left hand.


    "Thank you for your hard work."


    Even without the wind, the flowers continued to sway.


    The room quickly filled up, and the remaining items were put into the backpack. The things to be smelted were now overflowing from the house to the outside, a mix of joy and pain.


    The previous five iron ores had been successfully smelted, yielding ten pieces of hot iron, all sold for 10 silver coins. The three little ones followed her back into the house, and upon opening the door, they were greeted by the aroma of meat.


    Quickly removing the pot from the fire, she scooped out some porridge with a wooden spoon, blew on it to cool it down, and tasted it. The fragrance of lean meat mixed with the softness of rice, creating a rich and unforgettable flavor.


    Previously, when bored, she had carved out several rough and ugly wooden bowls from a block of wood, and now they came in handy.


    She placed three wooden planks on the ground and poured some porridge into them. The Grass Ball Animals immediately approached, wanting to eat, but Athena held them back. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Eat it when it''s cooled down."


    She started to enjoy the rare delicacy while blowing on it to cool it down, opening the rewards in the mailbox.


    The most eye-catching was the exclusive [ World Stone ], indicating that besides randomly obtaining it from specific openings, one could also receive a World Stone every three times they achieved an S+ evaluation.


    With a golden card page of the Snowstorm Beast in hand and now this World Stone, she could once again go to Sun City. Thinking of the swordsman who was on the brink of death when she last left, she wondered if he was still alive.


    Skipping the World Stone, she took out a blue shimmering package and three white ones.


    Just as Athena eagerly prepared to open the packages, she remembered the frequent prompts in purple font, which took away her sense of surprise.


    "Can the package opening prompt function be turned off?"


    ...


    Indeed, this time there were no prompts in purple font. With great anticipation, Athena picked up the first white package.


    A bottle of mineral water and a compressed biscuit, quite ordinary. The second white package contained an axe and a sickle, while the third white package contained 50 wooden blocks.


    Calming down her excited heart, she rubbed her hands on the grass mat, then reached out to the blue shimmering package with a nervous heart.


    After a flash of light, two blueprints appeared on the ground.


    [ Bow and Arrow Manufacturing Blueprint ]Category:Weapon ManufacturingBlueprint Quality:CommonDescription:Hand it to a reliable craftsman, and as long as you provide the materials, you will have a steady supply of bows and arrows.


    "YES!"


    What a stroke of luck!


    This was a blueprint that allowed one to manufacture many bows and arrows as long as they had sufficient materials. With bows and arrows, if put up for sale on the market, one would have a prosperous and stable income in the future.


    After the huge surprise, Athena quickly calmed down. Although she had the blueprint, she didn''t have a corresponding craftsman. This thing couldn''t be manufactured by herself, but required a craftsman...


    Where could she find a craftsman? Did she have to sell this blueprint?


    Shaking her head, Athena decided to put the blueprint aside for now. There was no hurry; there was still plenty of time.


    The other thing in the blue package was a blueprint for an Arrow Tower.


    A series of harvests made Athena, and even her slightly aching right arm, seem insignificant.


    Opening her attribute panel, she tentatively exchanged for some attribute points, cautiously adding 0.1, 0.1 to each attribute. Once the pain became unbearable, she immediately stopped.


    Finally, she successfully exchanged for 220 experience points, adding 2.2 attribute points.


    Name:Athena Ravencroft Experience:410 Title:[Hunter] (Strength bonus unavailable)Race:Human Gender: Female Strength:5Speed:4.6 (¡ü0.2) Agility:4.9 (¡ü0.7)Mental3.6 (¡ü1.3)Skills:Attachment


    With only 0.1 difference in agility to reach the critical value, and mental reaching its limit at 3.6, she stopped increasing her own attributes.


    A warmth spread through her body, and her previously slightly aching right arm recovered. Apart from feeling a bit mentally fatigued, her body had returned to its optimal state.


    Indeed, risks and rewards were proportional.

 0031 – Fire Leopard And Her Naming Sense

    0031 ¨C Fire Leopard And Her Naming SenseAfter a brief rest, which was no more than the time it takes to finish a meal, Athena casually leaned back on the bed. Three little creatures, their bellies bulging from just having eaten, came over and opened the special reward given by the system.


    This time, the system''s reward not only enhanced her own strength but also boosted the grassball animals. These three little ones were extraordinary.


    Were all creatures in this series like this?


    Speaking of which, among the three, only the Grassball Panda had an innate skill, which was the Giantization skill.


    Grassball Animal Skill, Would you like to extract?


    Yes / No ?


    "Yes"


    Extracting...


    Extraction successful, please choose a skill for the Grassball Cat.


    Giantization (Rare)


    Shadow Shift (Superior)


    Claw Slash (Common)


    Athena knew about the Giantization skill, and Claw Slash was just a common skill, making the Grassball Cat''s claws sharper but not to a special extent. Moreover, judging from the quality, the second option, Shadow Shift, belonged to the rarer category.


    [ Shadow Shift ] Category:Grassball Cat Exclusive SkillQuality:RareDescription:A lurker in the darkness, can meld into shadows even in daylight, Concealment +15.Shadow Shift skill has been selected.


    A white ball of light struck the Grassball Cat, which couldn''t escape in time, enveloping it. After the light dispersed, it stood in place, tilting its head, then entered Athena''s shadow. The moment it stepped in, its figure completely vanished, silently disappearing. Athena walked to the other side, and the Grassball Cat reappeared, emerging from her shadow.


    Though the Grassball Cat was concealed within the shadow, it didn''t move along with the shadow''s movement. Nevertheless, this was already a very decent stealth skill.


    She hadn''t named the three little ones yet, now was a good opportunity.


    "I''ll give you names."


    The three tilted their heads in unison, seemingly incredulous.


    "The rabbit will be called Witty, the panda will be called Paopao, and the cat will be called Mikmik."


    Watching them happily, Athena''s mood inexplicably improved. But business still needed to be discussed. With a slightly coaxing tone, she said, "Would you like an extra meal tonight? Lots and lots of barbecue."


    They looked at each other and nodded vigorously in unison.


    Athena put on a stern face, "If you want to eat, you have to work."


    She described the general appearance of the Black Phosphorus Snake to the cleverest one, Witty, promising that as long as they could kill or successfully capture the Black Phosphorus Snake, they would get an extra meal.


    With Paopao''s ability to stabilize a boss unit like the Iron Beetle under Giantization, along with Witty and Mikmik''s assistance, the danger level was probably not that high, but she feared they might not catch it.


    However, Witty''s speed should be comparable to the snake''s, and because of its petite size, the three of them could enter the creature''s lair.


    Just in case, Athena emphasized, "If you can''t win, just run."


    She escorted the three to the door and sent them out. Like an old mother watching her children grow up and go to work, she felt both gratified and emotional.


    She reached out and rubbed the head of the small lion at the door, pointing at it, "Prince and Princess."


    Very bright names, she had exhausted her naming skills.


    Back in her room, she half-sat and half-lay on the bed. Opening her friends'' panel, following the previous agreement, she transferred 80 copper coins to Potato.


    With 9 silver coins and 20 copper coins left.


    Athena planned to save the remaining coins to buy Cooling Wind Chimes. She checked the price of bows and arrows in the system''s store.


    [ Bow and Arrow ]Category:Ranged WeaponQuality:InferiorDurability:10/10Price:30 copper coins


    Normal quality arrows required one silver coin, with no higher quality available.


    Sigh, having a mountain of gold but no way to mine it, that was her current depressed mood. By now, almost all players'' tower defense tasks had ended, and for those who hadn''t, their fate was becoming apparent.


    The remaining number of survivors had been refreshed.


    3270/10000


    Today marked the eighth night of darkness. People had started lighting candles of illumination sporadically for the past few days. Because the primary candles only lasted seven days, even if they were only used at night and extinguished during the day, some unexpected situations caused additional consumption.


    As a result, everyone''s usage time varied. Some had used it for less than a night, while others had used it for up to three days.


    As for Athena, who had synthesized the moderately rare candles of illumination, she knew she had one for herself, and even if others had them, they wouldn''t exceed the number she could count on two hands. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    -- Does anyone have any spare candles of illumination to sell? Mine won''t last through tonight. I''ve saved up a bit from these last two waves, price is negotiable!


    Many people were looking to buy candles of illumination, but no one dared to sell them. Such requests were quickly buried under more messages.


    -- We''ve been fighting monsters every day, when will it end?


    -- No kidding, how come there''s a flying boss already on the second round? I almost got screwed!


    -- Thankfully, I saved some attribute points, otherwise I''d be doomed.


    -- I need medicine, my bleeding won''t stop, please, I beg you, my hands! I don''t want to die! Please...


    -- Does anyone know what to do if a wooden house gets destroyed?


    -- Does anyone have candles of illumination? Buying!


    Now everyone''s shelters had upgraded. Even the lowest tier wooden houses had some night defense capabilities, albeit only against darkness, which was still much better than the thatched huts.


    But nobody knew if the ability to resist darkness had truly increased compared to the thatched hut era. If they lost the candles of illumination, whether the shelter alone could withstand the darkness invasion remained unknown.


    Due to the anxiety and fear of the unknown, the price of candles of illumination soared, yet they remained priceless.


    This item was rare and unpredictable, with only a chance of dropping from green packages.


    More people were watching, observing what would happen to those without candles of illumination tonight.


    Previously, it was always Athena selling information to Ask-The-Heavens for questions, but after tonight, Athena felt she might have to pay a little price to Ask-The-Heavens for some information.


    As the current largest group organization, there were certainly people in their ranks about to lose the protection of candles of illumination. She believed Ask-The-Heavens would extract all the information from them, organize it, and exploit it for himself or maybe to grow his group.


    Next tower defense time, tomorrow at 12:00! Players, please be prepared, elite-level monsters will spawn!Next round of monsters: Fire LeopardFire Leopard (Elite)Level:4Strength:5Defense:8Skill1. Sprint ( Possesses incredible speed, it can reach you before you realize it )


    2. Claw Slash ( Sharp claws, even rocks are no match for it. )


    Weakness: Wood attribute is its natural enemy.

 0032 – Earth Wall And The Black Phosphorus Snake

    0032 ¨C Earth Wall And The Black Phosphorus SnakeThe elite-level monster, Athena had experienced the opponent''s difficulty. Dealing with the speed of the fire leopard and its claw attacks was quite troublesome.


    Through this tower defense, she realized the importance of the battlefield. She should move the battlefield away from her own house.


    There were too many limitations to fighting in the courtyard. Except for the special circumstances of the first tower defense, the respawn range of the second tower defense teleportation array was directly at the courtyard gate.


    She had obtained a similar item when she returned from Sun City before.


    [ Moving Earth Wall ]Category:Special ItemQuality:Excellent (Damaged)Description:A reduced version of the gift from Sun City, it comes with the attribute of daylight and can be placed outside the shelter range without being eroded when darkness falls. Once placed, it merges with the land within that range and can change protrusions according to the user''s will.


    Arriving outside the courtyard, Athena placed the blueprint of the moving earth wall on the ground. The simple parchment emitted a faint glow and quickly merged into the ground.


    [ Moving Earth Wall ] placed successfully!


    Athena attempted to use it, and a wall of earth instantly rose from the ground.


    Under her control, more walls of earth emerged, gradually forming a small maze. Trying to control the transformation again, Athena felt a sharp pain in her head, but it was within an acceptable range.


    She tentatively erected another wall of earth, and the pain in her head intensified instantly, accompanied by dizziness.


    Insufficient Mental Strength!Current mental strength can only control normally for 1 minute.


    Athena released control, and the earth wall instantly melted into the ground, but the dizziness didn''t fade until a while later.


    Although she could only control it for 1 minute, it was undoubtedly a powerful tool. Because it was a reduced version, the wall''s height was only three and a half meters, which was sufficient for early use.


    There was no possibility of climbing, and the wall was very smooth.


    What disappointed her somewhat was that there had to be a distance between the earth walls, so no matter how she controlled them, she couldn''t tighten them, and the transformation of the earth walls also took time.


    This shattered her idea of directly crushing the monsters into meatloaf.


    It was understandable. If she could directly crush the monsters inside the wall, there would have been no need to send them into the wall to fight earlier.


    However, with the moving earth wall, not only could she change the monsters'' travel routes and shift the battlefield, but she could also limit their speed, which was a considerable blow to the next wave''s fire leopards.


    The other arrow tower she obtained was placed at the outermost periphery of the courtyard by Athena, used to kill monsters escaping from the maze. There was no need to worry about the temporary use of the double-headed cannon and arrow tower inside the courtyard.


    She wanted to place the arrow tower outside the courtyard, but ordinary arrow towers and other items did not have the attribute of daylight, so if placed outside, they would disappear when darkness fell. Thus, the defense system of the shelter was basically formed.


    Athena looked up at the sky, "The defense system in the air is still missing."


    But she also knew that this matter couldn''t be rushed, mainly because there was no way to rush it.


    She went to check the purple dream buds that had been transplanted earlier. Because of several days of heavy snow, their somewhat sluggish state had begun to improve.


    Back in her own cabin, she began her physical training. Without professional guidance and without much professional knowledge herself, she could only do some basic exercises like push-ups and sit-ups.


    "1, 2..."


    "Meow!" A light slap landed on Mikmik''s body, and Mikmik, who was still happily chewing grass, staggered, but still managed to swallow the grass under immense pressure.


    The black phosphorus snake lurking in the tree stared greedily at them below. It hissed, seeking the right moment.


    Mikmik, sensing danger, bristled its fur and cautiously moved away from the tree, followed by Paopao, who also sensed something and left.


    Seeing its ambush fail, the black phosphorus snake leaped from the tree to launch its attack.


    A section of its tail was missing, chopped off by Athena earlier and hadn''t grown back yet. It raised its head proudly, spitting out red venom.


    "Boom!" Paopao''s sudden enlargement startled the black phosphorus snake, but its huge size also made it somewhat afraid. However, the close proximity of its prey made it reluctant to give up.


    Mikmik showed its sharp claws and quietly blended into the shadows.


    With its red eyes glaring, it was angry at the black phosphorus snake''s condescending behavior, searching for rocks around.


    "1... 2... 3..." Just as Athena was starting her workout, she heard the commotion outside. The increasingly loud meows couldn''t be ignored.


    Casually wiping the sweat off her forehead, she opened the door to see Mikmik rolling out of the mud as if from a swamp.


    Prince and Princess had been diligently guarding the door, not letting it in, considering it too dirty all over. Even Athena was taken aback by its appearance. She remembered how Mikmik, when eating grilled meat before, would meticulously groom itself even if a little grease stuck to its fur, especially cleanliness.


    Upon closer inspection, she found a little blood on its fur, furrowing her brow instantly. Upon checking, she found that Mikmik wasn''t injured, just accidentally stained. At this moment, Mikmik couldn''t care less about its dirty appearance, meowing incessantly at Athena, urging her to follow.


    With every step, she glanced back anxiously.


    Athena had not seen Paopao and Witty for a while. Could it be that they came back seeking her help? With this thought in mind, her steps involuntarily quickened, gesturing for Mikmik to lead the way.


    Just as she reached the courtyard gate, she sensed something amiss with the thorn vines.


    There was something hiding behind.


    Athena''s muscles tensed, instantly sharpening her focus. She watched as Mikmik made a turn and jumped behind a low stone wall.


    "Meow!" A slightly mournful meow sounded.


    "Ah." Athena felt a bit helpless. If there were really enemies behind, the thorn vines would have attacked already, not remaining so quiet.


    Now thinking back to when she was petting the little ones earlier, the mischievous gleam in their eyes was unmistakable. They were just playing with her.


    It seemed the black phosphorus snake had fallen for it this time. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But Athena had no intention of playing along. She boldly approached the wall where the creatures were hiding and peeked out.


    Looking down, she saw the three little ones crouching in the corner, pressed against the wall, too scared to make a sound. Only Mikmik occasionally let out a pitiful meow.


    Seeing Athena didn''t come over for a long time, they were considering turning back to take another look. But as they raised their heads, they were met with Athena''s gaze from above, startling them. Their fur stood on end in fright.


    Satisfied with her little prank, Athena then turned her gaze to the black phosphorus snake lying unconscious on the ground.


    Seeing Mikmik''s back soaked with blood, it must have been the one who brought it back. The little one was indeed strong.


    Seeing their trick exposed, Mikmik calmly raised its front paw, wanting to lick its fur, but was deterred by the mud on it, silently retracting it.


    Paopao and Mikmik were nudging each other, eventually turning their attention to Mikmik.


    Mikmik looked at them with some frustration, staring at them as if asking for something. The other two also mimicked the same action.


    "I won''t forget what I promised you. You''ll get an extra meal tonight," Athena said with a tug at the corner of her mouth. Could she really deceive them?


    Seeing the motionless black phosphorus snake on the ground, Athena still felt a bit queasy, but she was trying her best to endure it.


    The reason she called them three to try to capture it alive was to test an experiment that had failed on the iron beetles before.


    The black phosphorus snake neither belonged to the category of tower-attacking monsters specified by the system nor liked to die. Perhaps there was indeed a chance.

 0033 – Unexpected Early Warnings

    0033 ¨C Unexpected Early WarningsThe black phosphorus snake was finally awakened by a few slaps from Witty. Just as it was about to escape, the thorns on its body tightened. It struggled desperately, glaring fiercely at the three of them, wishing it could swallow them alive.


    Athena Ravencroft interrupted its fantasy, brandishing the axe that had once chopped off its tail, now swaying in front of it again.


    Bad memories flooded its mind, and the thought of being dragged out of its cave by these three guys after barely escaping this time made it furious.


    They were all in it together!


    It howled in anger and despair, but still couldn''t break free. It felt hopeless, and before Athena could do anything, it had already surrendered. It tried to plead for mercy from Athena, but it forgot that in the eyes of humans, it looked hideous.


    From Athena''s perspective, all she saw was the snake tightly entangled by thorny vines, writhing and making unpleasant sounds. Although Athena couldn''t understand what it was saying, she could roughly grasp the meaning of its surrender.


    She knew this snake had always been cowardly, she didn''t expect it to be so pathetic and she hadn''t even made a move yet, but Athena looked at the black phosphorus snake with some indescribable gaze. After all, she wasn''t in the Earth anymore.


    Could this guy be considered tamed? There were no clear signs.


    Athena''s gaze gradually became dangerous again, and the black phosphorus snake trembled, spitting out a snake apricot with a drop of golden blood.


    Successfully tamed the black phosphorus snake.


    Accept?


    Yes / No ?


    The golden blood floated in the air, as if choosing "yes" would allow Athena to obtain this golden blood and successfully tame the black phosphorus snake.


    Honestly, she didn''t want to tame a snake...


    Blank parchment, can collect the golden blood into the blank parchment. The monster will enter a taming state!


    Tamed monsters can be traded


    Blank parchment? She had three of those, all taken from the poor lost soul she bullied. At that time, she thought they were quite miraculous and might come in handy. She took one out from the system''s backpack.


    "Accept."


    As Athena''s words fell, the originally plain blank parchment emitted a faint light. The golden blood seemed to be guided and slowly merged into it.


    Even the black phosphorus snake on the ground was drawn into it. The yellowed parchment revealed the ink-like appearance of the black phosphorus snake, wriggling around within it.


    And in the upper left corner, it displayed the words "Awaiting Taming."


    ...She wouldn''t hesitate to use the lost soul'' items anymore; she could use a few more of these.


    Turning her head, looking at the dirty little ones, Athena started to feel a headache again. Looking at them, they probably followed her into the cave; otherwise, they wouldn''t be so dirty. She had been using water from the bucket recently, about one-third of it, plus the remaining mineral water should be enough.


    "I promise you won''t change, and tonight you''ll have an extra meal."


    "As for the bath, I''ll add another bottle of mineral water like you asked yesterday!" Athena gritted her teeth and took out a bottle of mineral water.


    The three little guys were each about the size of two palms, and they were all easy to clean with their grass-like appearance, so two bottles of mineral water would be enough.


    Water source, still lacking!


    She couldn''t rely on mineral water and buying water from [ Water Sprite ] all the time.


    And she had been using a lot of wooden blocks recently, and she didn''t have many left.


    There were just too many things to worry about.


    "Let''s go, I''ll grill some meat for you when we get back." Athena led the way, with the three little ones following neatly behind.


    As they entered the door, Witty rolled his eyes at Prince and Princess.


    Why use a sledgehammer to crack a nut?


    But up until now, when cutting meat, Athena had been using the big knife temporarily supplemented by the system.


    She cut a bit of giant rabbit meat and long-tailed bear meat, sprinkled some salt on top, and started grilling on both sides.


    At the same time, she didn''t forget to put the black phosphorus snake on the system''s trading panel.


    [ Black Phosphorus Snake - "Awaiting Taming" ]Introduction:This is a mighty and domineering snake with extraordinary combat power and insanely fast running speed!


    Don''t ask me any questions; click to see the details provided by the system.


    When adding me as a friend, please state your price.


    Price: Negotiable


    Although Athena thought the black phosphorus snake looked ugly and its attributes were average among the monsters she had seen, it didn''t stop her from praising it.


    She swatted away the bear paw that came sneaking over to grab meat, "It''s not cooked yet, don''t even think about stealing."


    Athena looked at them curiously and asked, "Do you guys need to eat too?"


    The three of them looked at each other, Witty nodded confidently, and after seeing Witty nodding, Mikmik also nodded. Only Paopao shook his head, but was then slapped on the head by Witty and nodded.


    Athena''s mouth twitched, she got it.


    It was 5:40 in the afternoon, still more than an hour before darkness fell.


    The originally bright windows suddenly dimmed, and when she opened the door, she found that the weather had changed.


    The sky was sunny just now, but in an instant, dark clouds loomed ominously. Soon, a fierce wind blew, and Athena could hear the sound of branches outside swaying wildly.


    She divided the grilled meat evenly among the three little ones, frowning as she looked outside at the impending storm.


    Was it going to rain heavily?


    She didn''t know if it was a normal rainstorm; the last time it rained heavily, the scene was brought by the Snowstorm Beast.


    She waited for a while but only saw the wind picking up without rain. Instead, the dark clouds in the sky grew thicker, covering the sky seamlessly. However, Athena dared not relax; instincts were the most sensitive.


    The three little ones were already trembling in fear because of the abnormality outside, huddling in her arms and refusing to come out.


    As the wind grew stronger, she wanted to bring Prince and Princess into the house, but was refused.


    Closing the door, she hugged the three of them, holding a candle in one hand, and looking through the window at the outside scene illuminated by the candlelight.


    Sure enough, she wasn''t disappointed.


    Warning!


    Darkness is coming early!


    All players, please return to the shelter urgently!


    !!!


    Darkness is coming early!


    Darkness is coming early!


    !!!


    Estimated arrival time: six o''clock!


    Darkness is coming early!


    The entire panel was almost engulfed by this prompt, and the urgent notification sound kept ringing incessantly. Although the message was urgent, most people had already returned to the shelter, after all, everyone had noticed the abnormal weather.


    In such a situation, no one dared to stay outside the shelter. All were anxiously waiting, unsure of what this time''s scene would be like.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Heavy rain poured down, and outside remained pitch black with no light in sight, thunder booming and lightning flashing. But Athena couldn''t hear the sound of thunder...


    Thump.


    Athena heard a series of drum-like heartbeats, raising her hand to press against her own chest. But then she heard deafening heartbeats like thunder, and her hand slowly moved away from her chest.


    She finally realized that this wasn''t her heartbeat; it was the heartbeat of some unknown entity approaching...


    Thump.


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    The sound grew louder and denser, the intense heartbeat even overpowering the thunder outside...


    On the parchment, it had been written...


    something dreadful is coming...

 0034 – The Truth Before Her Eyes

    0034 ¨C The Truth Before Her EyesIn the dim and lightless outside, there came the sound of a large number of trees falling. Inside the house, Athena tightly hugged the three small creatures, placing a bright candle beside her. The ground she sat on began to tremble slightly, and the thunderous heartbeat abruptly stopped.


    Even the raging wind became unusually quiet at this moment, as if the whole world had lost its sound, and Athena could only hear her own breathing.


    "..."


    The high-frequency chanting was inaudible to humans, but the excessively high audio waves were spreading. Athena just sat there, feeling as if her ears were receiving something, her head roaring like an old television with dense color distortions.


    As if everything around her had distorted similarly to a buggy game.


    Warm liquid flowed from her nostrils, dripping onto Paopao''s body, and at this moment, the three small creatures fainted directly.


    She didn''t know when it had stopped.


    Her eyes were bloodshot red.


    After Athena reacted, whatever was outside seemed to be moving away in another direction. Perhaps its initial target was not Athena but somewhere further away.


    Athena raised her hand and tapped her head twice. The roaring in her head gradually began to show signs of relief.


    "What was that?"


    The darkness outside enveloped everything, making it impossible for her to see anything at all.


    She didn''t know where that monster was going. At least it hadn''t noticed her small house.


    She still had some lingering fear, but before she could even rejoice, she received a system prompt.


    [ GALORE ]


    Detected the movement of the city-destroying monster Galore,


    currently detecting direction...


    Emergency system mission: Witness its demise!


    Yes / No


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    This was not something she could meddle in. She clicked ''No'' several times in a row, but the system panel remained unresponsive.


    Automatically accepted in ten seconds...


    "Accept"


    Athena couldn''t help but laugh. Wasn''t this a case of coercion?


    The monster that had passed by earlier should have been [ Galore ]. Witness whose demise? This monster''s?


    The portal has been triggered.


    The destination of this teleportation is Sun City.


    The emergency mission teleportation fee is covered by the system, no need to use World Stones.


    Disguise in progress...


    Athena only felt a warmth in her eyes, now return to normal, similar to the last time she was teleported to Sun City. Her eyes turned golden. Her attire also refreshed, changing from hemp gray to silver.


    She seemed to have become that capable soldier again.


    The deep portal appeared in the room, as if urging her to hurry.


    Only players can pass!


    This was a reminder to herself that she couldn''t take the three small creatures with her. Athena stared at the portal, the system had always instructed them to guard the tower, this was the first time a task was issued, and it was an emergency task.


    However one thought about it, this time was too rushed, and it didn''t fit the system''s usual style.


    Sun City, isn''t it too coincidental?


    She opened her system panel. It was peaceful inside, with no warning prompts.


    Choosing the regional chat channel, there was no abnormality. Although everyone was discussing the early arrival of darkness, no one mentioned anything else.


    What was mentioned most frequently was tomorrow''s tower defense.


    Please teleport quickly!


    Knowing that she couldn''t escape this time, Athena took a deep breath and walked into the portal.


    The dizzying feeling of weightlessness came again, and it was still that familiar wall. Athena reached out to support herself against the wall and began to retch, the familiar scene replaying.


    The old soldier who loved to wander saw Athena again, but this time he knew she wasn''t afraid of the battlefield.


    "Captain, is your stomach still so delicate? How many times has this been now?" His tone carried a teasing note, and compared to the last time they met, there was gradually hope in his eyes. "Hurry up and go in, this is a rare celebration feast!"


    The last time Athena came here was during the day, but this time it was at night, yet inside the city still retained the appearance of daytime. However, when she approached the city wall and looked outside, it was still dark. The sky seemed to be split in half, with endless darkness outside while this side remained in daylight. This made it hard for her to determine whether it was currently day or night.


    At this moment, this place felt like two different places, awkwardly stitched together.


    Last time she was here, she deduced that the time here should be synchronized with her own time. If that''s the case, it should be nighttime now. The old soldier beside her urged her to hurry back for tonight''s celebration feast. Athena deeply looked at this eerie scene and eventually followed the old soldier back.


    They arrived in front of a dilapidated house with its door open, and from afar, the sound of laughter and chatter could be heard. She walked in and quickly found her table with the help of the others. She saw familiar faces - the young mage, the female mercenary, and the swordsman...


    When the swordsman appeared, Athena was surprised. Although she occasionally cared about whether the swordsman survived in the end, the scene of that day was vivid in her mind.


    With injuries of that severity, the swordsman had no hope of surviving at all. Even when Athena held him up after falling from his horse, the major artery she inadvertently touched had stopped beating, and even when sent for treatment, this fact didn''t change.


    So, what was going on now? How?


    Seeing her, everyone greeted her despite her confusion. The female mercenary held a bottle of beer and directly chugged it down. Then she opened another unopened bottle and handed it to Athena, gesturing to her.


    The swordsman on the side persuaded, "Don''t trouble the captain anymore. She just vomited from drinking, and went out to sober up."


    Although that''s what he said, both the young mage and him were actually looking forward to seeing Athena embarrassed. After all, the captain was usually hard to talk to, and it was rare for them to catch her off guard.


    Athena held the beer in her hand but hesitated to drink. "How many monsters have we killed? If you can answer, then I''ll drink."


    They had killed too many monsters, and each person couldn''t possibly know what the others were doing while killing monsters, so this question was almost impossible to answer.


    Sure enough, the three fell silent.


    "I''ll answer. We killed a total of 468 Snowstorm Beasts..." Athena watched their expressions and intentionally left a part of her sentence, then looked at them to continue.


    "681 Iron Beetles." This was the answer from the female mercenary.


    Athena left a question to intentionally prompt them to speak, and how they interpreted it depended entirely on them.


    Now it seemed that after they killed the Snowstorm Beasts, they went to kill the Iron Beetles together. This confirmed Athena''s previous guess that the time on both sides was synchronized.


    But the problem was she didn''t participate in their siege of the Iron Beetles, yet the time she disappeared was filled in. This was also why everyone''s attitude towards her was like this.


    As if I was here after I left.


    Athena picked up the beer and brought it to her lips, casually asking, "Is your wound healed?" The question was directed at the swordsman.


    "Of course!"


    Athena raised her eyebrows, feeling somewhat incredulous. The swordsman immediately took off his shirt, revealing his intact belly. It was as smooth as new, without a single trace of injury.


    Not even a scar...


    It couldn''t be ruled out that there was something in Sun City for healing wounds, leaving no scars wasn''t uncommon in this world.


    Just as she was somewhat relaxed, she inadvertently glanced at the swordsman''s belly again.


    Judgment in progress...


    Mental strength insufficient...


    "Proactive Warrior" title amplification in progress...


    Judgement successful! Illusion nullified!


    "...?!"


    As her mental strength increased, she could see more things that she couldn''t see before.


    The intact skin dispersed like thin mist, revealing only bones when she looked back at the belly.


    Then the swordsman''s entire body turned into a moving skeleton, and then everyone else... except for the young mage and the middle-aged man who previously commanded the battlefield, remained in human form.

 0035 – Athena Met Another Players

    0035 ¨C Athena Met Another PlayersAthena Ravencroft was surprised in her heart, but her face remained as steady as a mountain.


    She cautiously observed the delicious food in front of her, making sure that both the food and wine were genuine and not poisoned before daring to take a careful bite.


    Fortunately, only the people were fake, at least the food was real.


    Setting down the beer in her hand, she pushed it back towards the female mercenary.


    "Wrong, it''s not 681."


    The swordsman and the young wizard were impressed by the female mercenary''s ability to answer the question, but then they heard Athena''s answer.


    "Tch." She had just made up a number on the spot and hadn''t expected to be found out.


    The female mercenary picked up the beer Athena had pushed back and gulped it down.


    Athena grinned at her, knowing full well that without the system''s kill confirmation, she couldn''t possibly know how many monsters they had killed at the time.


    But she didn''t tell the truth either; the number 468 was also just something she had randomly made up.


    Tearing a roasted chicken leg from a whole chicken and putting it into her mouth, the crispy skin and tender meat released a burst of juice, leaving a lingering taste.


    No matter what the others did behind her, Athena paid no attention, focusing solely on enjoying the food.


    She tore off another lobster and popped it into her mouth, calling the young wizard over.


    Under the pretext of punishing him for teasing superiors, she ordered him to do many unreasonable things.


    Unexpectedly, all three of them wore expressions as if they had anticipated she wouldn''t let them off easily. But Athena wasn''t naive enough for that. She observed for a long time and still didn''t find anything special about the young wizard.


    If the commander could be a living person among a group of skeletons, it might be due to the absolute pressure from the superior and the hidden terrifying power.


    So what about this seemingly dumb and clumsy wizard?


    Called Max Ryder, his name wasn''t anything special either.


    But there was another problem at hand: Where was "Galore"? Although the food here was delicious, she hadn''t forgotten that she had come here to complete the system''s urgent task.


    And now that the protagonist was missing, her mission couldn''t progress.


    To witness its demise.


    Athena had thought the system wanted her to witness the demise of "Galore", then upon learning that this might be a dead city, she had a different speculation about this witness.


    A soldier who looked like a communication officer hurriedly entered the room and found the commander who was drinking heartily.


    He whispered something to the commander, who then stood up and walked outside.


    "What''s going on?" the young wizard asked.


    He wasn''t the only one wondering; Athena wanted to know too.


    Soon they found out because the commander brought two strangers inside.


    Yes, two living people, a man and a woman.


    The man was dressed entirely in black, his hair covering his eyes. The woman wore a large floral coat and had her hair tied up in a high ponytail.


    Athena calmly took another bite of the roasted chicken, trying to suppress the turmoil in her heart.


    These two people who came seemed out of place compared to everyone else; they were wearing winter clothes from Blue Star, had no golden eyes, and had typical Asian features.


    Players.


    They were players other than Athena.


    When the young wizard looked at her, she deliberately showed some curiosity towards the two.


    "Wow, captain, where are they from?" the young wizard asked curiously.


    "I don''t know," Athena casually replied.


    Her acting skills were terrible; aside from her words sounding curious, there was no hint of curiosity. How hadn''t she noticed this before?


    The innocence in his eyes didn''t match that of a sixteen-year-old, it even resembled that of a three-year-old child.


    The commander soon provided an answer, instructing everyone to stop what they were doing and focus their attention.


    "These are people from the Third World. Let them introduce themselves."


    The girl seemed like she didn''t want any trouble, "Hello, everyone, I''m 001, and I come from the Third World."


    "Hello, dear friends, how are you? This is my first time seeing a world like this. It''s really beautiful here. Me? Are you talking about me? If you want to call me, you can just call me ''Madman''."


    "Hehehe."


    Athena''s face remained cold; whether he was crazy or not, he was quite eccentric, and the title was obviously made up on the spot.


    The girl clearly mouthed "I''m a player" but what they heard was "I come from the Third World". This might also be why the people here referred to players as people from the Third World.


    Previously, she had disguised herself by using an extra world stone. If she hadn''t used it, she might have been just like them.


    She, together with these two individuals, might have altogether deployed three players to Sun City.


    The top-ranked players in their respective regions.


    Unless necessary, she doesn''t plan to expose her identity. Whether they are friend or foe, as players, remains unknown.


    It''s rather the attitude of the commanders and others that''s intriguing. They seem accustomed to the idea of players being transported here, as if it''s just the way things should be.


    The victory banquet lasted quite long, during which Athena sampled various delicacies.


    It wasn''t until around 1 a.m. when the celebration ended. Apart from some soldiers on night duty, the rest returned to their accommodations.


    Their "accommodations" were nothing more than ruins next to the city wall, providing barely enough shelter from the elements, with a spot to sleep.


    Athena''s assault squad leaders were among those left behind, along with the two players. The commander looked at the two players, indicating they should choose which team to join.


    The girl looked around and found only Athena as a female team leader, so she chose to join Athena''s team. The boy next to her agonizingly pulled out a handful of hair, then ultimately followed suit and joined Athena''s team.


    The commander didn''t say anything about both of them joining the same team. "Familiarize them with everything," he instructed Athena before dismissing everyone.


    As people dispersed, 002 approached.


    "What tasks will you assign us? Will it be monster killing, or something else?"


    "Why are the night and day separated here?"


    "Do you know a monster called Garole?"


    002 asked many questions, but Athena had no intention of answering, because she didn''t have the answers either. Indeed, these two were here for the system task related to Garole, but so far, everything remained peaceful.


    If they stayed here until noon tomorrow, would the monsters in their shelter area still respawn? However, this string of questions did give Athena some ideas. She led the two straight to the lodging of the female mercenary they had seen earlier.


    Successfully catching her before she could sleep, Athena, leveraging her usual persona and position, said coldly, "These two have quite a few questions. You come and answer them."


    001 and 002 were somewhat stunned on the side, not expecting to actually gather intelligence so easily.


    Athena''s current identity asking such questions that everyone takes for granted was suspicious. Normally, it would be very difficult for outsiders to obtain intelligence from this world.


    But Athena had chosen a different path.


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 0036 – City-Destroyer Galore

    0036 ¨C City-Destroyer GaloreThe female mercenary was a bit tipsy at this point, her face flushed with a hint of alcohol. She cast a dissatisfied sidelong glance at the two, impatience evident in her eyes, nearly overflowing.


    If it were someone else, she wouldn''t bother, but it had to be the captain''s request.


    "Ask away."


    002 immediately called out excitedly, "Ha!"


    "The inside of the city looks like daytime, but why is it night outside the city walls?"


    The mercenary rolled her eyes imperceptibly, feeling somewhat disdainful, thinking these people from the third world lacked knowledge.


    Athena nodded silently in her heart, thinking, "Good question!"


    "What daytime and nighttime? Day is day, darkness is darkness. I don''t understand why you like to call it that way."


    "If the darkness can''t invade, then what else can it look like here if not daytime?"


    From her expression, she really thought it was a matter of course. But the four present felt quite stirred.


    Darkness attacks the day? Thinking of the writhing and seemingly living darkness, Athena began to understand to a certain extent.


    She looked outside, it was 1 a.m., yet the city looked like daytime. Last time she came, it was clearly daytime outside the city, but this time it was dark. Did it mean the territory of darkness was expanding?


    No, if that were the case, why would there be daytime and nighttime in the players'' spawn areas?


    Clearly, Athena wasn''t the only one thinking about this question.


    "Shouldn''t daytime and nighttime be alternating? That''s how it is in our third world!" 001 couldn''t hold back from speaking.


    "That''s why I dislike people from your third world, so troublesome."


    "We''re in a war zone, isn''t it normal to have such situations? When the outcome is determined, only one side will remain visible."


    "Although we''re in a war zone, the city area is protected by daylight and won''t be invaded by darkness."


    As she spoke, she couldn''t help but feel emotional.


    "I wonder when we can be transferred to a white area? If not, the borderlands will do!"


    "The captain comes from the white area, where there aren''t so many monsters. I really admire the captain''s voluntary transfer here."


    Athena understood. The daytime and nighttime in this world were different from theirs; they were alive.


    They divided the world into two main plates, one side always in darkness and the other always in daylight.


    And between these two main plates, there were other smaller ones, with the central one called the war zone, where players stayed, and there was a rotation between darkness and daylight.


    Sun City was also in this zone, but because of the protection of daylight, the city still looked like daytime.


    The area at the border of the war zone was called the borderlands.


    Humans lived in daylight, while all sorts of monsters lived in darkness, representing daylight and darkness respectively in battles.


    Congratulations on glimpsing part of the truth of the world! Please continue exploring the world!Rewards have been deposited in your mailbox!


    001 was speechless from the shock of the new worldview, while 002, like nothing had happened, continued to ask eagerly.


    "Do you know about Galore?" He looked expectantly at the female mercenary and Athena. The mercenary''s eyebrows shot up fiercely, her previously limp body instantly sitting up straight.


    Athena also reacted quickly. The female mercenary almost roared, "How do you know about Galore?"


    The two looked at each other, but neither said a word. The mercenary guessed it might be related to the tasks issued by their third world because players couldn''t directly tell them about their own tasks.


    Athena and her companions clearly didn''t know about this, choosing to hide it subconsciously.


    "Damn it! What did you see outside?" The female mercenary was now halfway sober, almost pleadingly asking.


    "Outside, it''s just darkness. Is that strange? Didn''t you say this is a war zone, so it''s normal?"


    "But even in the city area protected by daylight, there should be a fifty-meter perimeter, it shouldn''t be all black outside..." The female mercenary was beginning to panic.


    "Didn''t you see it?" 002 was shocked by her statement.


    "Galore''s uniqueness lies in its ability to merge with darkness. We... we can''t see it!"


    Athena lifted the mercenary up. What else was there to guess? There should have been a fifty-meter extension of the white perimeter outside the city walls, but now there was only darkness, undoubtedly related to Galore.


    Galore didn''t come, it was always there.


    Galore was made visible by the system...


    To witness its disappearance, if they couldn''t see the entire process, it wouldn''t be considered witnessing.


    What was the system doing all this for?


    After the female mercenary somewhat recovered, she staggered towards where the commander was stationed, completely devoid of her usual arrogance and the calmness she showed when facing the battle snowstorm beasts.


    As she ran, she shouted, "Galore is here!"


    When she said this, the soldiers who had intended to rest all rushed out.


    Not one of them thought it was a joke; they all grabbed their weapons and headed towards the city walls at the fastest speed possible! S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The soldiers guarding the city tower also began to panic. When the commander heard the name Galore, his pupils contracted. He looked outside, but everything seemed normal to him. There was a fifty-meter white area outside the city wall, with darkness beyond.


    But he absolutely believed in his soldiers. He ruthlessly took out one of the few Sun Scrolls left by the king, and as he tore it open, a dazzling light burst forth, as if an invisible giant hand was pushing daylight towards the darkness.


    Thirty meters, forty meters...


    Was the darkness retreating?


    No, it was Galore retreating.


    When Athena saw the darkness recede to fifty meters away, that familiar heartbeat started again.


    "Thump."


    "Thump."


    Like thunderous explosions, each louder than the last.


    In the pitch-black sky, a white, enormous rift suddenly tore open, revealing an eye inside.


    It wasn''t a rift, but an eye!


    The eyeball slowly rotated and finally looked down at the people below.


    Under the gaze of this warm body, the surroundings began to feel cold. The eyeball spun around, then split open in the middle, dividing into two and moving to each side of the eye.


    What was originally just one eye gradually split until the sky, as far as the eye could see, was filled with countless eyes.


    They didn''t blink, just stared at the people below.


    Galore was supposed to be formless, without eyes. Athena and her companions could see it with the help of the system, but the commander and the soldiers couldn''t even detect it.


    It gave itself eyes to let people see it. The attack of the Sun Scroll just now did cause it some damage; now it was angry, and it was showing off.


    Since a while ago, Athena had been receiving system prompts.


    Mental strength assessment in progress!Assessment failed!Fallen into fear, all attributes temporarily decreased by 10%


    The people nearby weren''t in any better condition; they were all in a state of fear.

 0037 – Sol Kingdom Has Not Fallen

    0037 ¨C Sol Kingdom Has Not FallenThe Galore monster approaches the city, terrifying the people into speechlessness. The commander, seeing the frightened crowd, impatiently orders, ''What are you all standing around for? Open fire!''


    ''We''re unbeatable!''


    As the commander''s words fall, a sense of relief washes over the crowd, and their fear instantly recedes.


    Commander Alfred activates the calming skill, boosting confidence...


    Fear status eliminated!


    Artillerymen and archers take their positions, while mages stand on the walls chanting incantations.


    Alfred furrows his brow, his expression grave. They''ve all heard rumors about Galore, but this is the first time they''ve seen it.


    In the last defense battle, reports from the front line mentioned Galore among the attacking monsters. They suffered a devastating defeat and gained no useful information.


    So much so that later...


    This time, they must hold their ground at all costs!


    Explosions rend the night sky as enchanted cannonballs are fired continuously. Yet, despite the multitude of attacks, they can''t seem to harm Galore in the slightest.


    "... " Soundless shockwaves strike, but Athena stands firm, seemingly unaffected.


    001 and 002 grimace in pain, while the young mage struggles to control his expression from behind.


    Others, or rather, the skeletons, show no reaction at all. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Despite the barrage of attacks, not a scratch is left on Galore. Alfred halts the collective of mages who were about to end their incantations and launch an attack.


    Above the mages hovers a massive thunderous orb crackling with lightning, countless currents running through, distorting the surrounding space with pressure.


    Alfred surveys Galore for potential weaknesses, knowing the mages can''t hold out for much longer.


    Commander Alfred activates the Eye of Reconnaissance (Advanced)!


    Previously, the system prompted because the skill was used on Athena and them, but now, even skills activated on others can be investigated with purple font.


    Seeing no effect from the prolonged assault, Athena becomes deeply worried.


    The task assigned by the system must have anticipated the outcome for one side. If witnessing Galore''s demise, that''s fine, but if it''s Sun City, then it''s disastrous.


    She''s still in Sun City; if it falls, she won''t escape unscathed. If Sun City isn''t completely destroyed, her mission could be deemed a failure, meaning she can''t return, leading to death...


    Did the system send them on this inexplicable mission just to meet their demise?


    Attempting to use the keyword "Galore" yields the same information as before.


    [ GAROLE ] Level:Super VersionStrength:???Defense:???Skills:??? [ Unable to View ]


    Even the purple font is of no help this time; they have no idea where this guy''s weak point lies.


    Galore is closing in on them, the distance between Sun City and it shrinking to 24 meters. Alfred''s eyes are already bloodshot, but he continues to stare intently, hoping to discover something.


    "Mages, follow my command! Aim at the bottommost eye directly in front of me!"


    After determining the direction, the thunderous orb is shot out with lightning speed.


    It hits, accurately hits!


    The eye of Galore is successfully shattered, greenish fluid splattering everywhere, and the remaining eyes begin to disappear one by one.


    Success!


    "Keep attacking! Don''t cease fire!" The previous assault greatly encouraged everyone, and the mages rallied themselves, prepared to expend their magical energy for another round.


    Only the commander quietly retreated, standing beside Athena.


    Soon, everyone noticed something was amiss; that thing was still moving, it was still alive! The distance was closing in step by step.


    "Visitors from the Third World, you''re not here to join the battle, are you?"


    "Correct."


    They couldn''t disclose the mission, but the other party guessed it anyway.


    Athena wasn''t too surprised that their system disguise had been figured out. After all, a living person among a bunch of skeletons was too obvious.


    Upon hearing Athena''s answer, both 001 and 002 were startled.


    What''s going on? Is this native actually one of them disguised?


    Athena turned to the young mage and asked, "Aren''t you coming over?"


    Seeing the situation, the young mage dropped the act as well, the fear vanishing from his face as he walked over from behind.


    "When did you find out?"


    It''s unclear whether this question was directed at Alfred or Athena.


    No one answered.


    At that moment, when they heard their response, Alfred knew the outcome.


    In this continent, it was well known that Sun City collaborated with the Third World. People from the Third World would often be transported here to help locals fight monsters, but sometimes they did things that others couldn''t comprehend.


    Witnessing the demise was one of them. These people had come before...


    As Galore approached, Alfred had to once again tear open a Radiant Scroll, successfully driving it back.


    "Don''t be afraid, Sun City is with us!" He tried to steady everyone''s nerves, but only he knew that there were only two scrolls left.


    Their power wasn''t enough; over the past two years, the highest they had faced were elite-level boss units. They were utterly incapable of dealing with a city-destroying monster like Galore.


    Today is the day of its demise, the day of the demise of the Sol Kingdom...


    It''s like going back to two years ago; back then, they were just as powerless. The king had entrusted him with the kingdom''s last legacy. And a year ago, when they failed to protect everyone from a storm, he had used his trump card to turn everyone into what they are now.


    But he''s still failing the king''s expectations. Now, he can''t even protect this last city.


    Perhaps the Sol Kingdom had long ceased to exist, and he''s the only living Sol person left...


    Athena and the others stood quietly aside, not disturbing Alfred who had closed his eyes.


    As he tore open another Radiant Scroll, Alfred knew time was running out. He slowly opened his eyes, filled with a myriad of thoughts. He seemed resigned, yet in an instant, he lost his soul and aged ten years.


    "Come over, everyone, let''s stop fighting and have a final chat..."


    In an instant, all illusions dissipated; those who were alive moments ago turned into mere skeletons, and the entire city instantly became a dead city.


    This sudden change caught 001 and 002 off guard, but fortunately, their psychological resilience was extraordinary, and they quickly adapted.


    Alfred beckoned everyone to sit on the ground as he controlled these skeletons.


    He addressed the old soldier who loved to wander, "Old Liam, I''m afraid I''ve misspoken about your promise to visit your daughter."


    He spoke to many people, and when it was the female mercenary''s turn, he said, "Sorry, Alice Song, we may never be able to go to Flame City together. But actually, we''re in a blank land here, the blank land you''ve always longed for."


    But when it came to the swordsman, he said nothing, only controlling the swordsman''s skeleton to come to his side.


    But Athena knew, the swordsman is the commander''s son...


    From the beginning, no one truly resurrected; everything was just flesh drawn on these people by this man''s memory.


    "Thank you for waiting." Alfred said gently.


    "Consider this as helping each other once, witnessing the rise of the Sol Kingdom and witnessing its demise, it''s also a fulfillment."


    He took out a seed, watering it with his own blood. The seed instantly grew into a fruit.


    "Eat it."


    [ Light Fruit ] Introduction:???For those under the protection of light, have the right to welcome the coming of the day!


    Athena and the others complied.


    Galore advanced once again, but this time, there was something that could stop it. It clung to the city walls, but was stopped in its tracks by a transparent white light.


    The white light gradually dimmed, perhaps it wouldn''t last long.


    "Friends from the Third World, if one day you leave the battlefield, could you tell the world that the Sol Kingdom has not fallen..."


    "Sure."


    As time passed, the white light disappeared, and suffocating darkness enveloped everything, Galore''s eyes had recovered once again.


    Athena saw Alfred smiling.


    "Don''t be afraid, the day is with us!"


    Bits of white light floated up from the ruins of the city, and the skeletons sitting on the ground also emitted white light. All the light converged on Alfred.


    His body cracked open, but his radiance shone brightly.


    He said, "The Sol Kingdom has not fallen!"


    In the boundless darkness, an unprecedented light erupted.


    Trading the city to destroy the city-destroyer monster, is not a bad deal.

 0038 – Sun Medal

    0038 ¨C Sun MedalThe teleportation portal in the room began to rotate, and a familiar figure slowly emerged from it. Three little creatures squatting in front of the portal excitedly bounced around, having woken up on the bed only to find Athena Ravencroft missing. There was only a strange door in the room, attempting to enter it but getting bounced out, so they could only squat there.


    Witty leaped up directly, aiming a palm towards her face, but before it could land, Athena grabbed it and held it to her chest. She then picked up the other two from the ground and carried them to the bedside.


    Sitting on the bed, she seemed somewhat heavy-hearted, opening her tightly clenched right fist to reveal a Sun Medal resting quietly inside. This was the medal that Alfred had placed on her chest, a gift given to her in his final moments. Athena admired him greatly; even as he led the entire city to perish with Galore, there was still a trace of a smile on his face.


    They survived the explosion initiated by the Light, thanks in large part to the fruit given by Alfred. Though they were in the midst of it, those rays of light did not harm them in the slightest, just as the system said, they witnessed its demise.


    When everything returned to calmness, the system''s teleportation portal appeared, absorbing all the surrounding energy into itself, and their mission was completed. Athena raised her hand and neatly pinned the medal onto herself. She didn''t know what others would do, but she would keep her promise, just as Alfred said, to let the world know that the kingdom of Sol had not perished...


    The fruit they consumed was his best blessing. Those protected by the Light had the right to welcome the coming of the daylight!


    The daylight has come, let''s start exploring the world.


    The three little creatures noticed that Athena''s mood was a bit off, so they stopped being restless and quietly squatted beside her.


    "Ah, seriously, you kept me up all night! And I still have to continue fighting monsters later, what a tough life!"


    As she spoke, she raised her hand and tousled the smooth fur of the three little creatures, messing it all up.


    "I''ll take a nap, remember to wake me up later," she said, not even bothering to look at the three angry stares, and leisurely lay down on the bed, closing her eyes to rest.


    Not only Athena but also a large group of players didn''t sleep well last night. The darkness came an hour earlier than usual, making everyone anxious. But everything remained calm until the latter half of the night when the survival count on the system panel started fluctuating. About two people died every second, although the frequency wasn''t high, the whole process lasted for less than a minute, but it was enough to make everyone panic.


    The regional chat panel was flooded with messages; everyone urgently wanted to know what had happened, but no one came forward to answer. Those who could answer had already died. It wasn''t until some people looked at the dimmed avatars of their friends and speculated that those who died might have been people whose Light Candles had burned out.


    Although they knew the situation of the deceased, they still didn''t know how they died.


    2638/10000Countdown: [00.05.00]


    When there were 5 minutes left in the countdown, Athena was awakened. Taking a nap amidst the busyness improved her mental state considerably. Without further ado, she beckoned the three creatures to go out with her, even though they couldn''t be of much help, watching was also acceptable.


    The teleportation portal had appeared by now. Athena controlled the earth walls underground. The rising earth walls blocked the path to the courtyard, forming a new passage instead. She created a maze that was narrow, tortuous, and not easily navigable, intending to trap the Fire Leopards inside and slowly kill them.


    Unfortunately, the earth walls could only be placed outside, and various defensive props could only be used inside the courtyard, so in the end, she had to do it herself.


    00.00.23 S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing that time was running out, she found a suitable position to stand and summoned earth walls to rise from directly beneath her. Standing steadily above the earth walls, she ascended with them, allowing her to overlook the maze''s interior. She placed the three little creatures on top, instructing them not to move around casually to avoid falling.


    00.00.00Monsters have respawned


    A leopard dashed out from the teleportation array, its fur fiery red with black patterns, and flames adorned its four paws. With every breath, flames accompanied it. It ran forward swiftly, as fast as the wind, but its target was blocked by a massive earthen wall. Spewing flames, it attempted to burn the wall, but it had no effect. When it raised its claws to try another attack, it instinctively felt uneasy and quickly jumped aside...


    An arrow flew unerringly to where it had just stood.


    The fire leopard snarled with sharp teeth, its eyes fixed on Athena standing on the earthen wall. What a delicious meal she would make.


    Athena, seeing her first shot miss, wasn''t bothered and aimed again.


    However, the fire leopard didn''t intend to give her a chance to aim. It darted around the maze, unable to accelerate in the narrow, tortuous space. This made it increasingly agitated. When another arrow shot towards it, it finally became extremely angry and didn''t flee again.


    It stood still and breathed out a flame, instantly incinerating the wooden arrow. Its gaze towards Athena turned from that of prey to wariness.


    It raised its sharp claws, intending to climb the earthen wall. Its sharp nails dug fiercely into the wall, and it actually began to climb upwards. Athena knew its intentions.


    Despite the increasingly dense arrows shot at it, it continued climbing without hesitation, occasionally tilting its head to spew flames, destroying the wooden arrows. Some arrows that hadn''t been burned pierced its body, but it remained indifferent and continued upward.


    With two wooden arrows stuck in its body, blood dripped along its fur, yet it didn''t falter.


    Closer, closer!


    The fire leopard roared excitedly, but Athena remained unmoved, shooting another arrow at it.


    The fire leopard''s gaze became fiercer. It continued climbing upwards, trying to approach the human who kept shooting arrows at it, but gradually, it realized something was wrong. No matter how it climbed, the distance didn''t shorten. As it climbed, the earthen wall continued to sink into the ground.


    "Roar!"


    Athena watched the unwilling beast. This time, she replaced the wooden sword with the iron arrows that came with the bow.


    As she shot an arrow, the infuriated fire leopard, still standing in place, attempted to use the same tactic, trying to burn the wooden arrows with flames.


    The unstoppable arrows pierced through the flames, directly hitting the fire leopard''s eye. The immense force pushed the fire leopard backward, and the unbearable pain made it half crouch on the ground.


    The surrounding earth walls moved, fixing its movement range in a small circle, making escape impossible.


    Athena once again took aim with her bow. The fire leopard below whimpered for mercy, but its claws were not hidden well.


    The skill ''Attachment'' has been triggered with the fatal effect!


    Unable to avoid it, the fire leopard died.


    Experience Points +50

 0039 – Intelligence Network

    0039 ¨C Intelligence NetworkWhen the first Fire Leopard was successfully killed, Athena Ravencroft immediately removed all the earth walls.


    Standing back on the flat ground, she raised her hand and massaged her temples, which were starting to ache. It seems that a quick battle is still necessary; using the moving earth walls is too burdensome for her mentally. Athena didn''t plan to immediately use the acceleration scroll; she intended to rest her mind for a while first.


    Three creatures nearby communicated with their eyes. Their owner is really terrifying. Yes, indeed. Athena turned to look at them, "If you don''t move faster, don''t blame me for not opening the door."


    Inside the house, she finally opened the system panel.


    The messages in the regional chat channel had already changed repeatedly, and now all she could see were people discussing the Fire Leopard. There was not a trace of anything related to yesterday.


    Even if there were, it was sporadic and useless.


    -- Wow, the fire leopard looks so cool! If it can be tamed as a mount, I''ll be the coolest guy in the whole area!


    -- I also think it''s super cool! But its attack power is not cool at all! Ahhhh, stop chasing!


    -- Air walls are so useful!


    -- I built a ladder before, now people are hiding on the roof, and this guy keeps hitting my door, what should I do?


    -- This speed of this monster is definitely cheating, system, I''m going to report it!


    -- Spent 30 copper coins to buy a bow and arrow, now shooting it from the roof, but can''t hit it at all.


    -- Hahaha, a bunch of unlucky guys, I have an ice tower, what fire leopard? Instantly turns into a nut!


    -- What happened last night?


    -- Brother, are you on a 2G network? Why are you still asking about yesterday''s events, without candles, just wait to die, it''s that simple.


    -- No skills, all about strength, first injure its legs.


    Athena scrolled through for a while, then opened her friend interface and found a message from Ask-The-Heavens. But she found out that the other party had sent her a message this morning, but she had slept too deeply to see it.


    -- Did you go to Sun City yesterday?


    --> Yes


    Ask-The-Heavens''s question was definitely based on some source, but how did he know?


    Athena was just about to continue asking about yesterday''s information when Ask-The-Heavens instantly replied,


    -- I heard that you explored ''part of the truth about the world'' yesterday, I hope to exchange for this information.


    -- If there''s nothing we have right now that satisfies you, you can ask, and we''ll try to accommodate.


    Another instant reply. Do these guys stare at the system panel all day? But she also caught two key points: "you" and "part of the truth about the world", the other party actually knew about such information.


    Athena became even more curious about their information network.


    --> Can you tell me where you got this information from? It''s okay if it''s inconvenient.


    Athena tentatively sent this message.


    -- If we tell you, would you promise to exchange information?


    --> Of course, it depends on your other sincerity.


    The courtyard was filled with various types of towers, attack types, auxiliary types, and towers of various attributes, which Athena could not imagine to be so wealthy. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Fire Leopard was locked in a cage on the side, as weak as a thread, unable to move. Its mouth and limbs were tied up, unable to harm anyone.


    Sitting beside it was a gentle-looking man, his face pale, having been plagued by illness for many years. He was now holding a small knife, attempting to dissect the Fire Leopard.


    [ Big Dream ] sent him a message.


    Ask-The-Heavens rubbed his eyes, looking at the message sent by [ Big Dream ] with excitement.


    That was the truth about the world!


    He immediately sent this message to a group of only four people. He could create groups, and he could create more than one group.


    The other two people in this group were running the information network with him, and the extra person had just joined a few days ago. He relayed Big Dream''s original words to them, and in no time, all three gave their replies, unanimously deciding to trade, agreeing to anything within their capabilities.


    While waiting for a reply, Athena played with her grassball panda cub, Paopao, rolling it into a ball and tossing it around.


    -- We got wind of this from another region.


    "...!"


    When the other party sent this message, even Athena was stunned.


    As the top-ranked combat-based player in Region 004, she had access to additional privileges granted by the system, but they were limited to viewing the rankings of other regions. And now this guy was telling her that they could already establish contact with other regions!


    -- It''s also a coincidence. We added a fourth hand a few days ago, and his place of birth has more than one shelter.


    --> What do you mean?


    -- He happens to be at the border between two regions. Next to him is Region 005. Because they are so close, he occasionally chats with that person.


    -- Now he''s the one transmitting and trading goods and information between our two regions.


    -- This incident was mentioned by the lunatic who ranks first in Region 005, but he only mentioned that he and others went to Sun City together and obtained part of the truth about the world.


    -- Because he''s the top-ranked person in that region, we speculated that you might have gone too.


    Hearing what he said, Athena actually opened her permission panel and accessed Region 005.


    -- Madman --


    ( Top 1 )


    Region Number:005 (Merged Region)Attributes: Not viewable. Introduction:An abnormal mental illness, usually causing people to refer to themselves as madmen.


    "Wait... is he..."


    After seeing that avatar, her really was the same as the 002 I encountered that day. In that case, the 001 and the little wizard from that day should also be the top-ranked in their respective regions.


    Athena felt it necessary to find some time in the evening to check which regions these two guys were from. Maybe they could meet again in the future.


    Ask-The-Heavens has initiated item list sharing with you


    Athena once again opened the item list. Enough said, these information brokers are faster than robbers. Her own wood and stone were almost gone, so Athena first wanted these two things.


    She may held some doubts to this guy and his pals but she will greatly benefit in this relationship as long as she is careful.


    After pondering for a long time, she still couldn''t decide. There were just too many good things among this group. It makes sense, considering that Region 004 plus Region 005, this merged region, probably only sent one of these lists.


    Finally, Athena saw something that made her eyes light up.


    [ Water Pump ]Description:Place it where there is underground water, and it will naturally pump water for you, extracting 3 liters per day.


    No wonder, these guys are wealthy just with selling information!


    Athena was starting to feel like joining them now. But when she calmed down, ordinary person simply couldn''t access these things. And people like Ask-The-Heavens and them, they had too many responsibilities to bear. Athena knew she wasn''t cut out for that. It''s better to maintain the current trading relationship.


    She compiled yesterday''s information into a report and sent it over.


    You received 999 Wood Blocks, 999 Stone Blocks, 100 Ores, 1 Water Pump, 2 Bright Candles, 3 Lucky Bags and 100 Silver Coins


    Besides these, Athena also received yesterday''s information.

 0040 – Mobile Cannon Rabbit Trooper

    0040 ¨C Mobile Cannon Rabbit Trooper[ Ask-The-Heavens ] sent a message to you.-- Shelters possess a certain resistance to darkness; the higher the level, the stronger the resistance. Lower-level shelters require a key, in this case, a candle of light, to activate this function; otherwise, their resistance to darkness will greatly diminish.-- Lower-level shelters: Shelters of levels 1 - 5. Key: Candle of Light. You, possessing the key, are the master of the shelter.


    -- Last night, those whose candles of light burned out were akin to losing the key to the shelter. This implies they are no longer the masters of the shelter; without a master, the shelter becomes just an ordinary house, and thus they were consumed by darkness.


    -- Last night, one member of our group, we only provided him with the candle of light at the last moment. His description was: darkness seemed to be everywhere, even with the doors tightly closed, making the house airtight. Yet, darkness still managed to permeate the house, directly closing in on him.


    Athena Ravencroft carefully examined this message.


    This shattered her initial conjecture; in the role of repelling darkness, the shelter was not the primary, but rather the candle of light. Only with the candle of light as the key can the shelter''s function be activated.


    "You mean the candle of light, is also a defense tower?"


    However, merely having the key is not enough. Hence, its use is confined within the shelter, complementary to each other. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    00:03:36An hour had quietly passed, and the second wave of monsters was about to arrive.


    Athena continued following the previous method, erecting all the earthen walls. After an hour of rest, her mental state had improved significantly, allowing her to manipulate the earthen walls once more.


    As soon as the walls were erected, she noticed the claw marks on one side of the wall.


    They were left by the fire leopards from before, indicating that the walls were not formed using the land in this area. They were part of the scroll from the beginning, each wall unique, and once destroyed, they could not be replenished.


    Athena didn''t know how many walls there were in total; her mental strength was insufficient to summon them all.


    00:00:00


    Three fire leopards suddenly rushed out of the portal. As soon as they appeared, they began to dash, splitting into three paths towards different passages.


    Athena was somewhat surprised; why were they so clever right from the start this time?


    The maze she designed wasn''t large, so their running wouldn''t take long before they found the exit. However, sending one out was enough; the other two still needed to be kept inside. With their speed and agility, Witty was particularly adept at dragging and luring enemies, especially hiding in the shadows.


    "Mikmik, go guard the exit, remember not to linger in battle, you just need to delay it."


    "Paopao and Witty, you go deal with the one running in the middle. Paopao, focus on combat, while Witty assists."


    Athena picked up her bow and arrow. "I''ll deal with the one at the back."


    After assigning tasks, the three small creatures ran to their designated positions. Athena mobilized her mental energy to control the earthen walls, releasing the first fire leopard.


    Awaiting it were attacks from various towers. Mikmik stood on the arrow tower, leisurely licking its fur. Faced with this provocation, the fire leopard roared furiously and charged forward.


    The other two fire leopards were completely trapped in the maze.


    Paopao and Witty coordinated their attacks. As soon as Paopao landed, it enlarged and charged forward. The fire leopard, seeing its sudden opponent, assumed an attacking stance, intending to breathe fire.


    Little did it know, a huge rock was thrown from the wall; narrowly dodging it, the fire leopard looked up to find a rabbit.


    Witty was displeased that the fire leopard had evaded its rock attack and leaped down. Seeing the rabbit offering itself, the fire leopard opened its mouth.


    But at that moment, Paopao suddenly closed in, aiming to bite its neck. Reacting with astonishing speed, the fire leopard jumped away.


    Just as it jumped, it felt its whole body being lifted up.


    It was lifted up by a rabbit!


    It hadn''t even realized what was happening when Witty threw it towards Paopao, who opened his arms and smiled at it. There was no preparation to breathe fire throughout the process.


    Athena chased the fire leopard with arrows while observing the battle on both sides. After ensuring that they could all complete their tasks well, she focused on her own side.


    The fire leopard roamed aimlessly in the maze, unable to escape. Occasionally, it would be hit by arrows. If this continued, it would either run to death in the maze or be shot dead by arrows.


    Unwilling to accept this fate, it chose the same tactic as the previous fire leopard, climbing up the earthen wall and intending to kill the despicable human!


    Unfortunately, its fate wouldn''t be any better than the previous one...


    With Mikmik''s petite and agile body, it managed to dodge the fire leopard''s claws and flames every time. With the help of thorny vines, the fire leopard was firmly trapped in place, during which it was hit multiple times by the arrow tower.


    Until it went berserk, broke free from the thorny vines, and rushed into the courtyard, only to be met with more attacks. Mikmik, elusive as ever, continuously impeded its progress, preventing it from approaching the house.


    Experience Points +50


    When Athena dealt with this fire leopard, the battles in the other two areas also ended.


    Experience Points +50Experience Points +50


    Mikmik still had a lazy demeanor, standing on the fire leopard''s corpse. Witty angrily kicked the fire leopard''s corpse with its hind legs, while Paopao pondered whether the fire leopard could be eaten.


    When it made up its mind to try opening its mouth to taste it, the corpse disappeared.


    Retracting the earthen walls, the three immediately ran over to Athena to claim credit, with Witty holding a blue package.


    Athena lifted her hand to accept the package, generously rewarding them, "You three did very well this time. We''ll have a big dinner tonight!"


    Mikmik pretended not to care, elegantly grooming its fur. Witty happily hopped around Athena, while only Paopao still cared about not getting a bite of meat just now.


    Congratulations to player [ Big Dream ] for successfully completing the tower defense mission!


    Rewards have been sent to your mailbox.


    This Tower Defense Mission


    S Rating!


    Successfully killed elite monsters!Rewards for sending, Small Mobile Cannon![ Small Mobile Cannon ]Category:ArtilleryAttribute:PortableAttack Power:10Description:A portable artillery, wherever you go, you''re a human turret!


    This tower defense mission only had two rounds because it involved elite units, and now Athena has successfully defended the tower, so the system''s rewards followed.


    Although it''s called small, it''s nearly half a meter long and quite heavy. Athena tried to move it but couldn''t.


    She looked at the Small Mobile Cannon, and a bold idea came to her.


    "Witty, come here and try to move it." Though puzzled by Athena''s request, the grassball bunny Witty came over and tried it. Its small body effortlessly lifted the cannon.


    "Good, I declare that this is your weapon from now on! Mobile Cannon Rabbit Trooper! Buwahaha!"


    After solving the placement issue of the Small Mobile Cannon, Athena went to the small wooden house and checked the status of the smelting furnace. All 27 common iron beetles had been smelted, yielding five pieces of iron.


    The two boss-level units of iron beetles were still in the process of smelting.

 0041 – Athena Found The Limit Breaker

    0041 ¨C Athena Found The Limit BreakerPut five iron bars into the backpack. Now, adding the 100 silver coins obtained from asking [ Ask-The-Heavens ], she has a total of 109 silver coins and 20 copper coins.


    There''s not such an urgent need for silver coins now, so she decides to keep the iron bars for now, as a backup.


    Back in the house, she checks her gains.


    Opening the green package, which she didn''t have high hopes for, unexpectedly bursts into a beam of light.


    Congratulations on obtaining the Binding Tower!


    Athena is somewhat incredulous. As someone with an unlucky attribute, she didn''t expect a flash when opening the green package! It''s a special effect exclusive to opening green flashing packages!


    [ Binding Tower ] Range:Courtyard of ShelterEffect:Binding monsters passing through the courtyard. Normal monsters of levels 1-3 are bound for 2 seconds, elite monsters of levels 4-6 are bound for 1 second.


    Each binding: 10 units of levels 1-3, 2 units of levels 4-6.


    Cooldown time for each use: 5 seconds.


    After reading its effects, Athena knows this is definitely a good thing, it''ll be very useful in battles.


    Suppressing her excitement, she goes to open the system mailbox.


    There are two rewards in the mailbox, one is the reward for successfully defending this time, and the other is the reward for completing the system''s emergency mission.


    Successfully defending the tower rewarded three white packages and one green package.


    In total, she received one Vegetable Gift Box, two Compressed Biscuits, and one Fire Defense Tower (Basic).


    She had seen Fire Defense Towers being sold by others before, but unfortunately, she couldn''t agree on the price in the end. Unexpectedly, she still ended up with one after all the twists and turns.


    Lastly, there''s the reward package for completing the emergency mission.


    There are only two packages in total, but both are silver.


    This is the first time Athena has seen silver packages. Despite being here for so long, the highest she had seen before were the green flashing packages.


    She tries to open the first one.


    You have opened the silver package and obtained the following rewards.[ Plant Spirit ] Level:NoneStrength:1Defense:1Skills:Catalyzes plant growth, Plant HealerCatalyzes plant growth: Waiting for plants to grow is always long.


    When plants have the company of Plant Spirits, their growth cycle will be greatly shortened.


    Plant Healer: Even plants on the verge of withering, under the treatment of Plant Spirits, will successfully regain vitality.


    Athena successfully obtained what farming players dream of.


    Although the various attributes of the Plant Spirit are weak, its skills are terrifyingly strong. With it, Athena no longer needs to worry about food.


    Now she just needs some seeds to let these five little spirits play their roles.


    Looking at these small figures with green wings, Athena can''t help but marvel at the wonders of nature. They''re truly beautiful creatures.


    Unfortunately, it seems they don''t have intelligence. After they appeared, they circled the room and then sat on Athena''s Vegetable Gift Box without moving. Unable to communicate, they just instinctively bond with plants.


    She opens another silver package.


    You have opened the silver package and obtained the following item.[ Heart''s Desire ]Category:MirrorAttribute:SearchDescription:Hold it in your hand, think of what you want in your mind, and it will guide you. It can only be used once a day. The amount of detailed information obtained depends on the difficulty of the desired item.


    "...?!"


    Another bombshell. There are just too many surprises today, leaving Athena feeling a bit dizzy. But when she thinks that all of this is what she earned with her life, she calms down again.


    At the same time, she also notices the red dot prompt on the illustrated handbook.


    Did she get new cards because she killed the Fire Leopard just now? There were no red dots when she killed monsters earlier.


    She opens the illustrated handbook, but it automatically jumps to the golden card page, which now appears dim.


    This is the only golden card page she owns, the Snowstorm Beast. Originally, besides the basic information of the Snowstorm Beast, there was also a tracking button below.


    But now the tracking button is grayed out and unusable. Athena tries to click on it, but a popup appears on the system interface.


    The trackable scene, Sun City, has been destroyed and cannot be tracked!


    Athena has a moment of daze. Yes, if the scene is gone, how can she track it?


    Special Card Obtained:Kingdom of Sol[ Kingdom of Sol ]Status:Extinct(?)Capital:Sun City Introduction:A once prosperous and powerful kingdom. Two years ago, it suffered mass-scale destruction by unknown reasons, with the Guardian City, Flame City, being the first to fall. Subsequently, all nine cities on the border were destroyed, turning the once white Sun City into a war zone. With the concerted efforts of the king and the people, Sun City was concealed by an unknown force. The king died, and the surviving population of the entire country was less than 1000. One year later, Sun City reappeared in the war zone, and all members were killed in multiple attacks, with the only survivor being Alfred. Alfred attempted to revive his companions and, after persevering for another year, was discovered by the city-destroying monster, Galore. Extinction. Below the card is a picture,


    The image of the moment Athena witnessed the extinction.


    Actually, the food that day was quite delicious, and she planned to bring some back for others when she saw them, but unfortunately, the system doesn''t allow food to be carried back.


    As she silently plans to close the card album, a system prompt appears.


    Detected simulatable cards!For 100 silver coins, you can simulate a card scene once, for two hours each time, and specify specific characters for training.Successfully defeating the character will break the attribute limit!


    Never did she expect such a change. Originally, Athena was puzzled about how to break her attribute point limit, but now she has a direction.


    A hundred silver coins for one time, which is too expensive for her now!


    Does the system really not know that she only has 100 silver coins, so it''s intentionally blocking her? It looks like she''ll have to work hard to make money again.


    She opens her own attribute panel, originally just intending to take a look.


    To her surprise, the purple font prompts her.


    Attribute points can be increased upon breaking the limit.


    If she remembers correctly, she just increased her attribute points not long ago. At that time, because she reached her limit, she didn''t continue to increase. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    How long has it been already? It''s impossible for her physical fitness to enhance in such a short time. Then why can her attribute points be increased again?


    The Bright Fruit has certain body modification functions.


    Athena first tries to increase by 0.1 attribute points. After confirming that her attribute points can be increased again, she starts the enhancement.


    Name:Athena RavencroftExperience:490Title: [ Hunter ] (Locked)Race:HumanGender:Female Strength:5Speed:5 (¡ü0.4)Agility:5 (¡ü0.1)Mental:4.8 (¡ü1.2)Skills:Attachment

 0042 – Athena Upgrades and Her Plant Spirits

    0042 ¨C Athena Upgrades and Her Plant SpiritsName:Athena RavencroftExperience:490Title: [ Hunter ] (Locked)Race:HumanGender:Female Strength:5Speed:5 (¡ü0.4)Agility:5 (¡ü0.1)Mental:4.8 (¡ü1.2)Skills:AttachmentSpeed has reached the current maximum value!Agility has reached the current maximum value!


    Please break through the barrier as soon as possible!


    ...


    Extraction Successful!


    5 points in Speed Skill: Hunter! (Active Skill)


    5 points in Agility Skill: Boneless!


    --> Skills Overview <--


    [ Attachment ]


    (Attaches strength to the weapon, enhancing the weapon''s attribute attack power,


    with an extremely low probability of triggering a fatal state!)


    [ Hunter ]


    (Legs gain amplification effect, burst speed increases by 10%, cooldown time is one day per use.)


    [ Boneless ]


    (Greatly enhances body flexibility, able to perform some extremely difficult actions.)


    Because of consuming the Light Fruit, laying a good foundation, this time allocating points was much less painful compared to the previous two times. More so, she felt a warm flow passing through her body, enhancing every bone. The clear sensation of becoming stronger and flexible was so intoxicating.


    Athena opened her eyes again to find that the world around her had slowed down, the flames burning in the stove, taking a while to flicker, Mikmik''s claws swiping towards Witty, much slower than imagined. With just one step forward, she had already grabbed them both in her hands. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Meow?" Mikmik couldn''t understand when its boss had learned teleportation? Witty felt lucky to have escaped.


    To adapt quickly, Athena walked around the room more than once until she gradually adjusted, then sat back on the bed.


    The plant spirits huddled together in fear, only daring to stay on the vegetable box. Athena tried to comfort them as before, but they started sobbing in fear. Mikmik and Witty also came over to watch the commotion, which frightened the plant spirits even more.


    As for Paopao, it didn''t care much; it just aimed for the vegetable box below the plant spirits. The vegetable box was transparently packaged, and one could clearly see bamboo shoots inside.


    It just reached over and pulled the box over, holding it in its arms. With nowhere to land, the plant spirits fluttered their wings around Paopao. Athena didn''t stop Paopao from approaching because she found that the plant spirits didn''t seem to resist Paopao''s approach.


    She coaxed them gently, but Paopao, being indifferent, just grabbed things as soon as it approached, and they gathered around.


    What kind of world was this? I''m so jealous!


    Sighed.


    The emotions of the five little plant spirits had eased, and Athena began to consider where to place them. It wasn''t practical to put them outside the shelter, and inside the courtyard, she couldn''t care for them during monster attacks. She couldn''t use the workshop for a while either, as it had a wooden house for protection and a smelting furnace with suitable indoor temperatures.


    She opened the system''s trading interface. There were all kinds of seeds and trees. She hadn''t considered planting before because in this uncertain world, perhaps the plants hadn''t sprouted yet when people were already gone. But now things were different; with plant spirits, the plant''s growth cycle could be significantly shortened.


    Looking at the prices of various goods, Athena ultimately sold those five iron pieces to the system.


    Sell or Not


    "Sell"


    Congratulations on receiving ten silver coins.


    She needed to keep 100 silver coins for scene simulation, and ten silver coins to buy cooling wind chimes. Now she needed to buy some seeds, but she simply didn''t have enough to spend!


    [ Peach Tree Seeds ]Price:10 copper coinsDescription:Plant it, and if you live long enough, you might taste delicious peaches.[ Cabbage Seeds ]Price:2 copper coinsDescription:Delicious large cabbage, who wouldn''t want to eat it?


    With a wide variety of choices, each one tempting Athena, but she remained unmoved. She only had five plant spirits, definitely not enough for all these basic plants. Scrolling down, she finally saw what she wanted.


    [ Orange Tree Seeds (Mutated) ]Price:10 silver coinsDescription:Can bear oranges that are only sweet and not sour, after mutation, it has even more magical functions; consuming it can instantly eliminate fatigue.Note: Only 10% of the fruits produced have special effects!


    After scanning around, Athena found that the ones with good performance weren''t cheap, and she couldn''t afford them. The ones with slightly poorer performance weren''t very useful either, not worth it.


    Gritting her teeth, she placed the order, buying an ordinary peach tree, two packs of cabbage seeds, one pack of carrots, and one pack of chili.


    This brings one to the system''s ruthless nature; all seeds can only be used once, meaning they cannot be bought, grown into plants, and then used for seed after maturation. Since she bought trees, they couldn''t possibly be planted indoors, and her previous plan to plant them in the workshop wouldn''t work either.


    After some thought, she decided to plant them in the gaps between the house and the short stone wall.


    As long as she blocked the monsters in front of and outside the courtyard, the plant spirits wouldn''t suffer attacks. She asked Paopao to accompany her and the five plant spirits out.


    At the chosen location, Athena took out the purchased items, all in the form of seeds. She threw the peach tree seeds and orange tree seeds on the ground, and the seeds naturally merged into the ground, quickly taking root and sprouting, growing into saplings.


    When the cabbage seeds were scattered, they also merged into the ground naturally, but there was no change; they needed to grow naturally.


    Seeing the plants, the plant spirits no longer circled around Paopao but excitedly surrounded the plants.


    The originally ordinary trees began to glow from the roots, and the light spread upward; the branches extended with slight tremors. Under the impetus of the spirits'' lives, the trees seemed to come alive.


    Each tree had a plant spirit; there was one for the carrot patch, the cabbage patch, and the chili patch. They joyfully circled above the ground, and as they danced, some shiny white powder fell from their wings.


    The seeds below sprouted and broke through the soil, all in an instant. Just as Athena was expecting them to grow instantly, their growth slowed down.


    Peach Tree Result: 06.00.00Orange Tree Result: 12.00.00Cabbage: 02.00.00Chili: 02.00.00Carrot: 02.00.00


    Indeed, they were plant spirits; the shortest vegetable harvesting time was only two hours, and two hours later, Athena could eat fresh vegetables.


    Since she was already out, she decided to get everything done at once. She took out the just-obtained binding tower blueprint and placed it next to the arrow tower.


    Build a Bundle Defense Tower?Cost: 1 Bundle Defense Tower Blueprint, 100 Wood Blocks, 50 Stone Blocks


    "Yes"


    Construction successful.


    After the white light, a triangular tower with special white vines wrapped around it appeared successfully next to the arrow tower. Then she took out a Fire Defense Tower (Basic) and placed it next to the Defense Tower (Intermediate).


    Build a Fire Defense Tower (Basic) ?Cost: 1 Fire Defense Tower (Basic) Blueprint, 100 Wood Blocks, 50 Stone Blocks


    The Fire Defense Tower looked no different from the ordinary defense tower, except for some flame patterns on top.


    The ordinary defense tower seems more blast-type while the other has fire attribute.


    Looking at the neatly arranged row of towers, Athena thought that next time she might have to start placing them from the second row; the courtyard was a bit small.

 0043 – Athena Has Died!

    0043 ¨C Athena Has Died!Coming to another small cabin she hadn''t set foot in for a long time, this small cabin was designed by the system to resemble a washroom. Unfortunately, there was no water for her to use at all.


    Taking out the water pump she had just obtained, it looked very different from the one she remembered. It was a palm-sized, square mechanical box.


    When she threw it on the ground, it automatically melded into the ground.


    Water pump installation successful!


    Athena tried to turn on the faucet of the washstand, and clear water flowed out. There was also another sink under the right side of the washstand, which was very convenient for fetching water in normal times.


    Three liters of water could be fetched every day.


    Although it was little, it was much better than before. Moreover, if she didn''t use it today, the unused quota for today would be added to tomorrow''s water quota, so she didn''t need to fetch three liters of water every day.


    After closing the door of the cabin, she went to the workshop. At this time, the smelting had been completed.


    Obtained 10 iron blocks.


    A boss-level unit like an iron beetle could be smelted into five iron blocks, all of which could be exchanged for silver coins.


    Obtained 10 silver coins.


    At this time, there was nothing left to smelt in the smelting furnace. The fire of the smelting furnace gradually extinguished and automatically shut down. Back in the house, she opened the system mall again.


    Blanket (10 kilograms)Price:3 silver coinsCooling Wind ChimePrice:10 silver coinsIntroduction:Hang it in the house, and there will be air conditioning indoors. Using it in cold weather will surely cause illness.


    Although she had already bought a cotton quilt before, Athena still chose to buy the blanket she had been thinking about.


    She also didn''t let go of the cooling wind chime.


    She also bought some pots, ladles, bowls, and utensils here and there, and replaced the three small broken wooden bowls with exquisite porcelain bowls, spending a total of 1 silver coin.


    The standard of living also needed to be improved.


    Mattress (1 silver coin), pillow (1 silver coin), thin quilt (2 silver coins), and a four-piece bedding set (1 silver coin) were all arranged. With 8 silver coins left for occasional needs and 100 silver coins for the cost of simulating scenes. The things she bought weren''t really that many, but the expenses were considerable.


    However, looking at her refreshed home, Athena still felt that everything was worth it. Athena sat on the soft and comfortable bed, feeling a wave of relaxation.


    This wasn''t just her psychological effect; the bedding from the system mall had the effect of aiding sleep and relaxation. She had been busy until now, and she finally had time to take out what she truly desired to examine.


    It was an oval-shaped mirror with a gold border. It was enclosed in a shell, and the back of the shell was inscribed with a segment of unknown distorted text, with the entire shell appearing black.


    The mirror was bright, smooth, and crystal clear. Athena aimed it at herself, and the mirror reflected her appearance and the background of the room behind her.


    She had always been curious about the wood goblins of [ Big Bear ]. Even though she knew she could obtain it in the goblin instance, she had been unable to find the direction.


    Trying to think about the goblin instance in her mind, the image in the mirror rippled like water, her projection disappeared, and the entire mirror turned black, with a segment of blood-red text appearing on it. The text was the same as that on the back of the shell, but miraculously, Athena understood the text on it.


    ~ (( Three strands of goblin hair, plus some alcohol they like. )) ~


    ~ (( When darkness comes, leave the shelter, and there will be someone to guide you. )) ~


    Any alcohol will do, preferably white liquor.


    Athena didn''t expect the information to appear so simply. What she didn''t know was that if it weren''t for her strong mental power, she would have fainted due to a headache when she read this text just now, and she wouldn''t have been able to understand the text either.


    White liquor could be purchased from the system mall, but where could she obtain the goblin hair? [ Big Bear ].


    It seemed she needed to make a deal with [ Big Bear ]. But right now, she needed to try the scene simulation. She clicked on the card of the Sol Kingdom in the system guide.


    Do you want to spend 100 silver coins to simulate the scene?


    Yes / No ?


    "Yes"


    The moment Athena say "Yes" instead of clicking the yes button, the scenery around her began to change, and everything disappeared. She appeared in a vast white space, surrounded by nothingness. In front of her, the system panel popped up.


    Current designated character: Alfred


    Do you want to designate?


    Yes / No ?


    "Yes"


    She had known as soon as she entered that in this scene, the only person she knew who could serve as a sparring partner was Alfred.


    Please select mode:


    1. Challenge Mode


    2. Sparring Mode


    Without hesitation, Athena chose 2. Even though she knew that if she defeated Alfred, she could break through the attribute barrier, she still had some self-awareness. She was simply not a match right now.


    Reminder, once death occurs in any mode, the scene simulation ends!


    In Challenge Mode, the challenged character''s attributes will be suppressed to the player''s attribute barrier state!


    The vast white scene changed once again, with ruins rising around her, followed by city walls. This scene was familiar to Athena beyond words; it was Sun City. The scenery outside the city also changed accordingly.


    Snowstorm beasts, including snowstorm beasts generals, appeared outside the city, forming an army. On the city wall, a man in heavy armor was commanding the artillery. He was the familiar Alfred. Athena mingled among the snowstorm beasts, and all the nearby snowstorm beasts automatically ignored her.


    With her identity reversed, this time she wasn''t defending the city but attacking it with the snowstorm beasts. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Only by entering the city could she qualify for a battle with Alfred. This kind of sparring mode was something Athena had never expected. She thought it would be one-on-one training, but she didn''t expect this training to require her to fight first alongside monsters.


    02:00:00


    Time left for her was not much. Each card scene simulation, costing 100 silver coins, only lasted for two hours each time.


    Title [ Hunter ] activated!


    Athena burst out with her speed. She leaped from the midst of the snowstorm beasts, stepping on their heads, and sprinted towards the city gate.


    With the boost of speed, she avoided the gunfire from inside the wall.


    Luckily, the scene simulation didn''t replicate all the scenes at the time, otherwise, the mage''s lightning balls and various enchanted bullets and arrows would make it impossible for her to move an inch. She hoped to reach the city gate as quickly as possible, but as she was about to reach it, Alfred on the city wall moved.


    Approaching the city wall, triggering active mode!


    The opponent somehow got a bow and aimed at her. Even though she escaped at the fastest speed, she even used a snowstorm beast in front of her as a shield. But the arrow still carried the momentum of thunder and shot towards her, piercing through the body of the snowstorm beast in front of her and then hitting her right in the forehead.


    Card scene simulation ended!


    "...!"


    Athena suddenly opened her eyes wide. She reached for her forehead, finding nothing. She was still alive.


    Every hair on her body stood on end, and her back was already soaked with cold sweat. Even though she had left the scene simulation, she couldn''t shake off the feeling of death.


    The genuine fear when targeted, the pain when pierced in the forehead, everything felt so real. She was sure that the bow and arrow were just something the opponent grabbed randomly, not Alfred''s main weapon at all. But even so, she was killed instantly by the opponent.

 0044 – Athena Trade With Black Planet

    0044 ¨C Athena Trade With Black PlanetIn a simulated scenario, all sensations are real, physical injuries won''t carry over to reality, but mental damage is unavoidable. She sat on the bed for quite some time, only breaking free from the fear and sensation of death.


    Her initial reaction was to lament the loss of her 100 silver coins. She hadn''t done anything, hadn''t even approached anyone, yet she was killed instantly.


    That opponent''s combat power seemed way too overpowered!


    However, the attack from the opponent was triggered only when she approached the city gate.


    As long as she didn''t approach the gate and attempt to attack the city, she wouldn''t be subjected to the opponent''s attack.


    But if she didn''t approach the opponent, what should she do when she entered?


    Athena suddenly remembered the densely packed snowstorm beasts outside. Those snowstorm beasts wouldn''t attack her actively; they were good practice material.


    Moreover, from entering the white space to being killed, more than a minute had passed. Yet when she came out, the clock''s hands had only advanced by one or two seconds from when she entered.


    The flow of time was different, that was her conclusion.


    If that was the case, it was undoubtedly an excellent training ground inside, which could accelerate her growth and enrich her combat experience.


    So, 100 silver coins were still worth it. Once she accumulated enough coins next time, she would train outside the city first, and when the time was right, she would enter the city.


    She thought this process shouldn''t take long.


    Although so far, her attribute points had almost reached the bottleneck value, she lacked matching combat skills and combat experience.


    Her control and application of her body were also not good enough.


    All of these needed enough time to accumulate. Having figured all this out, she planned to open the system panel. The three little ones who had been squatting beside her began to whimper.


    Paopao even held onto the vegetable gift box, pleading with her with eyes full of hope. It was already past lunchtime, but Athena hadn''t remembered this at all, having just eaten a big meal. She took the vegetable gift box from Paopao''s hand, opened it, and checked inside. There were bamboo shoots, tomatoes, celery, and various other vegetables, but not in large quantities.


    "Let''s just make do with these for lunch today."


    She handed the bamboo shoots that Paopao had been longing for to it, then gave the carrots to Witty, and took out some jerky from her system backpack, which she had reserved earlier, and gave it to Mikmik. After solving their food problem, although Athena didn''t feel hungry, she still ate two raw tomatoes.


    Then she opened the system panel.


    -- This daddy managed to survive; it was really a narrow escape, thrilling... Want to see what happens next? Just need 10 wood blocks!


    -- Not to brag, but I got an A-grade evaluation, and the rewards are super good!


    -- I''ve been staying on the roof, too scared to come down.


    -- This is outrageous, why can''t these monster corpses just not disappear? That''s meat too!


    -- Look at what good stuff I''ve looted, my source of happiness, Cola!


    -- To the one who stayed on the roof, how did you kill the fire leopard?


    -- I didn''t kill it, I just let it into the house, and by the way, I set up some small mechanisms inside the house and locked them up. Anyway, as long as the wooden house isn''t destroyed and I''m not killed, it''s fine. It''s not like it''s forbidden to let monsters into the house.


    -- How come my evaluation is only C-grade?


    -- You''re really a genius, with such a unique mindset. Letting monsters into the house, you''re the first!


    Athena also felt admiration for the audacity of this person. Most people wouldn''t dare to do such a thing. Who knows if after the monsters entered, they would be judged as failing directly?


    Opening her own trading interface, there were many people showing interest in trading for the black phosphorus snake she had listed earlier.


    After all, having a snake-like monster as a pet was quite cool. She quickly scrolled through the trade conditions and offers provided by this group of people until she saw a familiar name.


    [ Black Planet ].


    Ranked second in the region. Even Athena occasionally popped up in the regional chat channel, but this guy had never shown any activity. If it weren''t for seeing him on the leaderboard, Athena wouldn''t even know such a person existed.


    She accepted the friend request from the other party.


    -- Exchange for the black phosphorus snake: 50 ore, 250 wood blocks, 200 stone blocks, 36 silver coins.


    --> I have too many wood and stone blocks, can I exchange them for something else, like attack or defense tower blueprints?


    A guy in a white T-shirt sat in front of the fireplace, occasionally adding firewood inside. He pondered over his remaining resources, lowered his gaze, and made a decision.


    --> Okay sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.Offer To Trade with player [ Big Dream ] for [ Black Phosphorous Snake ]?


    Ice Defense Tower (Basic), 50 ores, and 20 silver coins.


    The other party has sent you a shared message.[ Ice Attribute Defense Tower (Basic) ]Defense:5Attack:12Skill:Freezes monsters for 3 seconds and deals damage, fires a cannonball every 5 seconds.Construction:Ice Attribute Defense Tower (Basic) blueprint 1, 100 wood blocks, 50 stone blocks.Note: Only freezes for 1 second for monsters above level 5, and freezes only one unit.


    The other party canceled the wood and stone blocks and reduced the silver coins but offered a blueprint for a basic Ice Attribute Defense Tower.


    The conditions offered were acceptable under normal circumstances, as such blueprints were not usually available even with money.


    However, Athena''s black phosphorus snake was the only one. If used properly, the black phosphorus snake could also be a combat force, capable of autonomous combat.


    --> The blueprint is acceptable, but the silver coins are too few.


    The Black Planet picked up a piece of compressed biscuit and stuffed it into his mouth, then took a big gulp of water. Without much hesitation, he relaxed.


    --> 36 silver coins, that''s my limit.


    -- Deal


    Trade successful.


    Athena now had an extra blueprint on hand, the silver coins had been automatically deposited into the system, and she also received 50 pieces of ore.


    The Black Planet also received the sheepskin parchment containing the black phosphorus snake.


    In the ink painting on it, the black phosphorus snake was sleeping soundly. It felt like being shaken awake, and upon opening its eyes, it found itself in a strange environment.


    It had escaped from the humanoid creature''s hand, but ended up in the hands of another male humanoid creature.


    The Black Planet bit its fingertip, letting the blood drip onto the sheepskin parchment. The black phosphorus snake, depicted in ink on the parchment, transformed from a virtual state to a tangible one, leaving the parchment.


    Gradually, there was a faint light around it. Its tail, which had been severed halfway, began to rapidly regenerate, returning to its original form.


    The golden blood began to merge with the man''s red blood, ultimately returning to the black phosphorus snake''s body.


    Taming successful


    The black phosphorus snake''s emerald eyes showed less fear. It looked at Black Planet with softened eyes. Black Planet waved at it, and the black phosphorus snake obediently spat out a fresh red snake fruit and crawled to his feet. It climbed up his arm and rested its head on his shoulder.

 0045 – Athena Obtained Goblin Hair

    0045 ¨C Athena Obtained Goblin HairIn a warm and cozy room, a short-haired girl lay on the bed, wrapped in blankets, flipping through chat channels incessantly. Meanwhile, amidst a fierce struggle for survival among other players, she was the only one player who seemed to navigate the challenges of the past days without any struggles at all.


    "Haha." Whenever she stumbled upon amusing messages akin to that of social media, she couldn''t help but burst into laughter, though she dared only to chuckle secretly under her blanket.


    The wood goblins, busy tidying up the house nearby, had grown accustomed to this.


    Big Bear, catching on, flushed red, her voice much lighter than her laughter just now, sounding almost like a mosquito. "Everyone, I''m sorry, I''ll control myself next time, I promise!"


    The wood goblins knew their young master''s temperament very well by now. Apologies were one thing; whether she would change next time was another matter.


    Big Bear had been living comfortably by selling woods earlier on. Despite everyone being busy with various tasks later on, the rate of tree cutting remained low. She still relied on woods to live a prosperous life.


    Many woods asked by [ Ask-The-Heavens ] were also purchased from her.


    Outside, there was a row of turrets, and with her extreme luck on opening packages, she even got many rare ones.


    With wood goblins guarding the door, she never worried about monsters attacking the turrets.


    Except for food and entertainment, which couldn''t match up to [ Water Sprite ], everything else was going well.


    When she had nothing to do, her favorite pastime was screen peeping.


    At this moment, the other wood goblinss who were chopping wood came back. One of them, obviously older, hurried over to her.


    Looking at her with deep eyes, he said, "Young master, it''s time for today''s training."


    Big Bear grinned awkwardly, then excitedly showed the system panel to the old wood goblins again.


    On it was a message just sent by [ Big Dream ].


    -- I want to purchase something from you.


    --> Okay!


    Athena hadn''t said anything else yet when she noticed that everyone replied to her messages almost instantly. Were people other than her peeping at screens always, if not, most of the time?


    --> I''d like to buy three wood goblins hairs.


    Thinking that the other party might have a good relationship with wood goblinss and fearing that [ Big Bear ] might misunderstand her intentions, she added, "Just for verification purposes, it won''t have any other effects."


    -- Okay


    -- Okay!


    Two consecutive "okay"s made Athena feel the other party''s joy.


    She frowned. Why was [ Big Bear ] so unusually pleased? But she still patiently proceeded with the transaction.


    --> How about 1 silver coin for three hairs?


    This price was actually quite fair. After all, there was probably only [ Big Bear ] who owned wood goblins now. Athena had no other way to obtain them, so [ Big Bear ] essentially monopolized them. If Athena could really enter the goblins instance and capture one or two goblinss, then this transaction would definitely be worth it.


    If [ Big Bear ] wanted to raise the price, she had no better option.


    Big Bear was unusually excited at this moment. She showed the system panel to the wood goblins, and the wood goblins, knowing what the human on the other side wanted to do, nodded. But for it, there was no sentiment among its kind. Or perhaps it was the same for all wood goblins; their group consciousness was almost non-existent.


    One plucked three hairs from its head and handed them to Big Bear, agreeing to the transaction.


    Big Bear eagerly initiated the trade.


    Watching the other party be so generous in sending the trade, Athena even had a feeling that she might have paid too much. Suppressing this strange feeling, she clicked on the trade.


    She had 43 silver coins left.


    Big Bear watched as her silver coin count increased by one on the system panel and boasted to the old goblins.


    Timidly, she asked, "I made money today. Can I take a day off?"


    The old goblins nodded somewhat helplessly, and Big Bear excitedly jumped in her blanket.


    -- Thank you!


    -- Thank you, thank you!


    Athena paused for a moment, feeling the hairs in her hand. [ Big Bear ] used to apologize a lot before, but now she seemed to prefer saying thank you. Well, it was others'' freedom to say whatever they liked; she had no right to intervene.


    She carefully examined the three resilient green hairs in her hand. Opening the system store, she found white liquor for sale, as well as some cheap beer. Unable to resist the temptation, she spent three silver coins on a bottle of very good white liquor.


    With everything ready, all that was left was to wait for darkness to fall.


    Cabbage: 00.00.00


    Chili peppers: 00.00.00 S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Carrots: 00.00.00


    The countdown in purple font ended.


    "Witty, Paopao, could you two go and harvest the vegetables?" When Athena spoke, the two were still sharing food, each taking a bite in turn.


    Upon hearing Athena''s words, they obediently put down their food and went outside. Witty lay comfortably in Athena''s arms, stretching lazily. Athena lifted it up and said, "What are you waiting for? You should go too."


    Witty promptly followed along, not lagging behind.


    Athena had no intention of idling either. She got up and walked out, arriving at the courtyard outside.


    With her mental control, walls of earth rose up one by one. Standing atop one wall, she controlled the changes below while simultaneously controlling her own body, leaping to another wall and altering it.


    Before one wall could change position, she jumped to the next direction at lightning speed. There was a moment where she nearly fell due to lack of coordination, but she managed to regain control just before reaching the critical point.


    Yes, she intended to use this method to train not only her physical control but also her mental strength. She aimed to become stronger every minute and every second.


    Even when her head began to ache, she didn''t stop, pushing through until the pain became piercing, almost reaching the breaking point, before stopping.


    She then took out her bow and arrow and began practicing repeatedly.


    After the bow and arrow, she moved on to the axe. When her mental faculties had recovered enough, she summoned earth walls again.


    Eventually, she ran directly on the walls, practicing with the axe and bow and arrow while running.


    Her physical fitness was evident. Within a few short hours in the afternoon, the results of her training were already beginning to show.


    Athena continued her relentless training until nightfall.


    Darkness is about to fall, all players please return to the shelter.


    Wiping the sweat off her face with her sleeve, she put away her tools and brought back the earth walls, dragging her tired body back to the wooden house.


    As usual, she glanced at the regional chat channel.


    -- Strange, it''s been so long since the tower defense ended today, why hasn''t the system prompted us about the tower attack tomorrow?


    -- It does seem that way. Is this time unusually late?


    -- Don''t mess with our heads like this, it''s messing with our mentality.


    -- Can someone add me as a friend and chat with me? I''m starting to mold.


    -- What''s going on? Are they giving us a day off tomorrow?


    -- Still thinking about a day off? You''re lucky if you get a one-year break; probably something weird is going to happen again.


    -- Is really no one adding me as a friend?


    -- Hey, guy upstairs, back off, stop spamming here.

 0046 – Athena, The Information About Merfolks and The Unexpected

    0046 ¨C Athena, The Information About Merfolks and The UnexpectedIn the regional chat channel, various discussions emerged endlessly, leaving Athena naturally puzzled, but she did not participate in their discussions.


    Witty and Paopao neatly arranged the vegetables they had dragged back. Mikmik directed them on how to arrange them, and if not placed properly, Mikmik would directly intervene.


    A familiar knocking sound echoed, it was the lost soul.


    It knocked on the door, while Prince and Princess sat aside, staring at it with unfriendly eyes. After the last incident, they already knew that the lost soul was the master''s guest, so they did not obstruct its knocking.


    But the lost soul exuded an aura of darkness, making them very irritable, almost wishing to rush up and fight with it.


    Athena opened the door, only to see the lost soul staring at her unfriendly. It was too lazy to maintain its image now, disregarding its childish voice: "You weren''t here yesterday!"


    This was not the first time the lost soul had been given the cold shoulder. Seeing its irritable appearance, Athena took out a piece of dried meat from her backpack and handed it to him.


    "Why didn''t you just put the parchment paper in front of the door?"


    Speaking of this, the lost soul got angry, fiercely biting into the dried meat and saying, "The text on this parchment paper will disappear automatically after a certain period!"


    Athena nodded knowingly and gave him another piece of dried meat. Taking the information from the other party''s hand, she unfolded the parchment paper and read it loud enough for everyone to hear.


    "The darkness is awakening, its loyal followers are starting to move frequently."


    It was again one of those incomprehensible phrases. The information was brought by the lost soul, and it surely knew more than what was written on the parchment paper, but it either couldn''t say or couldn''t say much.


    Taking out another piece of dried meat from her backpack, she asked Witty to bring a tomato and handed them all to the lost soul.


    Returning the blank parchment paper where the text had already disappeared to him, she said, "The text is not clear, maybe you can make it clearer."


    The lost soul looked at the food piled up next to it, then at the parchment paper Athena handed back, pretended to make some changes, and handed it back to Athena.


    "Merfolk!"


    Behind the small figure floated a black spherical space, swallowing up all the tomatoes and dried meat. The lost soul''s anger was replaced by joy, completely different from when it came, and it happily left. It didn''t expect Athena to return the parchment paper to it now.


    Rolling up the parchment paper and storing it back into the space, the lost soul could still write more detailed information.


    It just didn''t want to, nor did it want to take that risk. Athena had no comment on this, but fortunately, the other party was a foodie. When she gave him roasted mushrooms before, he enjoyed them a lot.


    Congratulations on obtaining the keyword: Merfolk![ Merfolk (People) ]Level:8Strength:13Defense:11Skills:Ocean Wave, Singing, Biting, Tail Strike.Attention, Merfolk are intelligent-level units!


    Ocean Wave: As guardians of the sea, they naturally have the ability to call upon the sea. When in the sea, they can summon huge waves.


    Singing: Once you hear the merfolk''s singing, a mental check will be conducted. Failure results in confusion.


    Biting: Despite their beauty, they possess the biting power of sea overlords, capable of consuming their prey entirely when bitten.


    Tail Strike: With their agile tails, they can deliver a heavy blow to enemies, with a 30% chance of causing serious injury.


    Intense sunlight, fire, and waterless areas are their weaknesses.


    When merfolk transform their tails into legs, all attributes decrease by 40%!


    If things go as expected, this will be probably the monsters attacking the towers, the hut and her in the next round or so. What troubles Athena is not the opponent''s high attributes and level, but the fact that merfolk are people therefore intelligent-level units.


    This means that merfolk have intelligence akin to humans. The reason players can defeat monsters higher in level than themselves, besides relying on various types of towers, is because most monsters fight on instinct, while humans know how to use tools and traps.


    This is the unique intelligence that humans have compared to ordinary monsters, and now they are facing merfolk who are not only stronger than them but also possess equal intelligence.


    Back in the wooden house, Athena began to ponder whether she should go and search for the goblin instance today. After all, the system''s notification hasn''t come yet. To prevent accidents, she chose to wait.


    While waiting, Athena cooked a pot of vegetable porridge, and she and her companions enjoyed the delicious meal by the fire.


    As the clock''s hands reached twelve, amidst the anticipation of numerous players, the system''s notification finally arrived, albeit late. However, the notification wasn''t about tomorrow''s tower defense time.


    Regional Battle!Regional battle is about to begin, please prepare for battle, players from all regions!All players have experienced three tower defenses, and the system barrier is moving back 500 meters!


    The system barrier is in a partially lifted state!


    From the arrival of daytime today, no teleportation array monsters will respawn for three days!Please use these three days to enhance your combat power, the regional battle will commence on the fourth day at daytime!


    Upon hearing about the system barrier, Athena rushed out of the door and into the courtyard.


    The system barrier was encountered by her when she first arrived in this world, a means by which the system restricted their exploration beyond.


    In this dark world, Athena stood in the courtyard, looking out into the distance. One by one, the barriers that stretched into the sky in the forest lit up, gradually becoming visible. Emitting a faint glow, they were dazzling in the darkness.


    They seemed like towering walls that separated players from this world. And now, they were slowly moving backward, revealing a glimpse of this world''s iceberg.


    At the same time, those monsters that had been isolated were now appearing within the players'' activity range. They excitedly crossed the barrier and lurked in the forest, patiently awaiting the arrival of tomorrow''s daylight.


    While the barrier restricted players'' freedom, it was also a means of protection...


    And now, these monsters that had been released were given ''rations'' by the system for these three days.


    If they eat well, they become fat... S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If they don''t eat well, they become the rations!


    And on Athena''s system panel, the notification for the regional battle was still displayed.


    Regional Battle


    Battlefield: Black Forest


    Participants: Top 200 from each region (Rankings are subject to updates at any time!)


    Opposing sides:


    001-002


    003-004


    ...


    097-098


    Regional Battle Ranking Rewards:


    1st place: Redemption (earring equipment), 5 silver packages, 3 World Stones!


    2nd place: 1 gold package, 3 silver packages, 2 World Stones!


    3rd place: 1 gold package, 2 silver packages, 1 World Stone!


    4th-5th place: 3 silver packages, 1 World Stone!


    6th-10th place: 3 silver packages!


    Regional Subsidies: 5 shining cyan, 5 white packages, 100 silver coins!


    Explanation:


    If the number of surviving people in your region is greater than that of the opposing region, it is judged as a victory!


    The victorious region will receive regional subsidies!


    During settlement, for every additional 10 people in your region compared to the opposing region, the region subsidy reward increases by 1%, and independent regions increase by 5%!

 0047 – Gaining Her Favor

    0047 ¨C Gaining Her Favor-- Regional battle? What kind of regional battle?!-- The battlefield is in the Black Forest, isn''t that a very dangerous place? Why set it there?


    -- With its reward rules, isn''t it concerning that people from two regions will deliberately kill each other?


    -- Huh, maybe the system wants to see us killing each other in our regions. And with that ranking reward, even within our own region, killing between us might happen.


    -- It can only check ranking now. I don''t have to participate if I''m outside the top 200, that''s great!


    -- Naive, if you don''t participate this time, there will definitely be more opportunities in the future. Cowards like you are going to die later on!


    -- The barrier outside really retreated. There are so many strange sounds, so creepy. Help! This is outrageous, does it want us dead?!


    -- Buying all kinds of weapons! All kinds!


    The regional chat channel had turned into chaos due to the system''s bombardment of information, but a small number of people had already begun to take action.


    Athena was the first to choose to open the system mall, and as expected, the system mall was already closed.


    Five axes, one sickle, one moonlight bow and arrow, 48 flame enhancers, one small mobile tower, and four purple Purple Dream Buds. There were also Witty, Mikmik, and Paopao. These were all her combat capabilities that she could bring into the regional battle.


    However, if she wanted the top 1 rank position, these were not enough.


    [ Ask-The-Heavens ], who was in contact with Athena, and [ Big Bear ], both had seemingly excellent solo combat abilities and were wealthy individuals.


    Buying weapons from the other side was not realistic.


    From the moment the system announced the rules, everyone was a potential enemy.


    Not many were willing to aid the enemy at this time.


    "I don''t like this. No matter how much I try to remain myself, this system will eventually force me to kill people."


    "Even if the system offers me golden packages in exchange for killing a person, I wouldn''t do it."


    "Kill people..."


    Athena smashed a wooden block with her fist in fury, and the wooden block was split in half!


    She gritted her teeth, knowing this is inevitable, and as rational person she was, Athena couldn''t help but make survival the reason to kill.


    For now, she will try her best to not make killing entertainment and at the same time, not become a pushover.


    I may have empathy but when it comes to life, I will choose my own over others first. Just the thought of it makes me sick but I don''t want to die regardless of reason.


    Nevertheless, Athena is concerned that she might become a person in the future that she doesn''t want to be.


    Even those who said they didn''t want to participate in the regional chat channel still held onto a glimmer of hope, what if they were the chosen one? Why does it have to be oneself who dies, and not someone else?


    However, even if they couldn''t cooperate, it didn''t mean they had to be enemies.


    [ Big Bear ] has sent you a message.[ Ask-The-Heavens ] has sent you a message.


    The chat interface with [ Big Bear ] popped up first.


    We have always been good partners, haven''t we? I hope we can have a pleasant cooperation in this regional battle as well.


    This was a signal of reconciliation. She wouldn''t sell supplies to Athena, but at the same time, she didn''t want to become enemies with her. If there was a chance, they could still cooperate on the regional battlefield.


    Athena didn''t reply with many words because she knew the other party would understand.


    Of course, I wish us a pleasant cooperation


    To her surprise, [ Ask-The-Heavens ] also sent her a message.


    Contrary to what Athena thought about him being solo combat specialist who ranks among the top 10, Ask-The-Heavens was now trembling under the blanket.


    He knew he couldn''t escape this regional battle, and now he just hoped to save his own life, and the only person he could think of was [ Big Dream ].


    Sudden realizations struck him in his psyche.


    -- Relying on wealth alone would only get you so far.


    -- Survival of the fittest.


    --> Boss Big Dream, help me! How much silver coins do you need? I''ll help you gather. Can you guarantee to protect me in this regional battle?


    Actually, with Ask-The-Heavens''s strength, it was really not difficult to survive as long as he''s certain, and if he tried hard, he could even strive for a good ranking. But unfortunately, this guy couldn''t muster any fighting spirit at all.


    To be honest, the conditions offered by the other party tempted Athena, who lacked silver coins, but she firmly refused [ Ask-The-Heavens ].


    Not because of anything else, but because she couldn''t guarantee it, the risk was too high compared to material gains. Because in the Black Forest, there were not only players, but also various other monsters, too many variables.


    For Athena, despite the high gains she might get from him, there''s no guaranteed for her to save him. The upcoming battle is simply unknown.


    -- 50 silver coins, please help me when the time comes!


    --> Okay...


    Ask-The-Heavens has sent you a gift, accept/reject?


    "Accept"


    Congratulations, you have received 50 silver coins.


    The rich indeed have money, 50 silver coins.


    Since there''s no condition required neither I signed to a contract, it was okay. He was simply buying my favor to not kill him.


    As long as she lends a hand to the other party later, she can still manage it but if her life was in danger, she will let the treasure chest sunk deep in the ocean without a doubt.


    After all, they only sent gifts.


    Potato has sent you a message.


    Wasn''t this the person she bought scrolls from last time?


    -- Boss Big Dream, do you need scrolls?


    Do you think I''m capable? Don''t worry, I can run really fast!


    --> I don''t need it anymore, the other party offered 50 silver coins


    S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "..."


    Potato hugged his treasure chest. With his possessions intact, he wasn''t afraid of running out of fuel. But now he couldn''t spend his silver coins, so he decided to save his life first.


    --> 42 silver coins, that''s all I''ve got.


    -- Okay, send the money first.


    --> Yes...


    Potato has sent you a gift, accept/reject?


    "Accept"


    Congratulations, you have received 42 silver coins.


    Now she had a total of 153 silver coins, enough for another scene simulation. But there was no hurry. She spread out her palm, still holding three sturdy goblin hairs. Listening to the continuous strange noises outside, Athena tidied up a bit and decided to go to bed.


    She would check the situation tomorrow. If the defense system here and the three little ones could handle it, she would set off for the goblin instance tomorrow night.


    Her current strength was definitely not enough to break through the barrier.


    She hoped to gain a batch of harvest in the goblin instance, and enhance her strength further without breakthrough.


    After coming back, she would consolidate her strength using scene simulations before heading to the regional battle.


    Under the bed''s sleeping aid effect, she quickly entered dreamland.


    "Meow~" Athena looked at Mikmik, who was constantly pulling the blanket, and said nothing. She had slept deeply from exhaustion yesterday.


    The sky outside the door was already bright, but it was not yet dawn.


    Athena stepped out, and near the house was a row of neatly arranged towers.


    At the entrance of the courtyard, there was also an arrow tower on the left, with the blueprint of a basic ice attribute defense tower placed on the ground on the right.


    Build or not?


    Cost will be 1 blueprint of ice attribute defense tower (basic), 100 wood blocks and 50 stone blocks!


    The system doesn''t have static messages and yet not confusing at the same time.


    "Build!"


    A familiar white light enveloped, and a tower emitting a chilling aura appeared in place.


    Day has come, please begin exploring the world!


    The entire world was eerily quiet, even the once bustling forest suddenly fell silent, only the sound of the wind could be heard around.


    But Athena knew this was just the calm before the storm.


    Mikmik stood on one of the towers, leisurely grooming his fur.


    Paopao had already been enlarged, still looking cute and innocent, yet with an imposing aura that couldn''t be underestimated.


    On the back of Witty was a small mobile turret, shining brightly, standing taller than the hut itself.


    "Swoosh!" "Roar¡ª" "Squeak, squeak, squeak!" The once quiet forest became noisy in an instant.


    Monsters of various species and appearances rushed towards the shelter, running wildly with fierce and frantic eyes.


    Athena just stood quietly in place without moving. She didn''t plan to do anything today.


    She wanted to see if the current strength of the shelter, plus the three little ones, could handle it when she wasn''t around. Only then could she confidently head to the instance.


    The expressions on the monsters'' faces quickly turned to fear as ice, fire, arrows, cannons, and vines attacked them simultaneously, instantly breaking their scattered formation!


    Witty couldn''t resist it first. With its jumping ability, it leaped directly into the midst of the monster group, spraying bullets everywhere as if in a deserted land. Paopao didn''t understand why those monsters didn''t even come in, yet they had to go out to fight?


    But Paopao''s body rapidly followed, grabbing a monster resembling a wild boar and tossing it out like a bowling ball, knocking down a swath of enemies.


    Mikmik, displeased that they stole his spotlight, also entered the battlefield.


    It always emerged from the shadows, slashing the opponent''s neck with a claw, or playing with the enemy''s eyes like a cat playing with a mouse.

 0048 – Guide

    0048 ¨C GuideThe number of monsters was numerous, but the system still left a way out for everyone. The barriers were only partially lifted, and mostly first-level monsters were released.


    It was a gift to those brave enough to fight, perfect for grinding experience and loot. Under Athena''s high combat power and shelter defense system, the first wave of monster groups was successfully repelled.


    Experience Points +36White package x1 S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Casually tossing the white package back to Mikmik and the others, Athena opened the system panel''s top left corner region function, clicked on the ranking of the 005 region, and checked their ranking in the system. The system''s introduction was not reliable, but it still offered some insights.


    Seeing the vanguard team retreat, the remaining monsters lurked in the forest, waiting for the next batch of volunteers to explore. Athena didn''t ask the three little ones to charge in because every time they killed a wave, the barrier would automatically attract another wave of monsters to replenish. There would always be unrecognizable monsters rushing in, and these three days of monsters were unlikely to stop.


    After reminding them not to slack off, Athena went to the vegetable patch. After letting Mikmik and the others gather the harvested vegetables yesterday, she had intended to plant the remaining cabbage seeds. However, the plant spirits showed resistance.


    Looking at the vacant vegetable pits, unlike their previous fertility, the land now lacked vigor. Although the plant spirits catalyzed plant growth, the nutrients the plants obtained still came from the soil. It wasn''t advisable to repeatedly catalyze planting in the same place using this method.


    She collected the oranges and peaches from the trees into the system backpack, without continuing to plant other plants, and returned to the wooden house.


    Leaving some of the peaches and oranges at home, she took away some of the vegetables. Pieces of rabbit meat were laid out and sliced, then placed on both sides of the stove to roast.


    When she was away, these things left outside the system backpack would easily spoil, while cooked food would last longer.


    Summoning the three little ones back, she signaled them that it was time to eat.


    Paopao watched Athena using a spoon, glanced at its bowl, and then tried to pick up a spoon. Athena just looked at it with amusement. Unexpectedly, after several failed attempts, Paopao actually started eating with a spoon.


    Athena and the other two looked at it with a look of seeing a rare animal, seeming to think of something. Athena suddenly spoke up, "Do you want to have delicious food every day?"


    Paopao, who was proudly showing off its spoon-using skills to Mikmik and Witty, suddenly turned its head and nodded frantically after hearing Athena''s question.


    "Good, when I come back, I''ll let you handle the spoon. You can eat whatever you want from now on!"


    Paopao only heard "eat whatever you want", filled with joy, while the other two pretended not to know anything.


    After a leisurely lunch, Athena started her daily exercise after a while. The constantly attacking monsters outside were entrusted to the three little ones.


    They didn''t disappoint Athena''s expectations. Up until now, not to mention attacking the house, those monsters couldn''t even get into the courtyard.


    -- There are really a lot of monsters. I even saw one that was extremely ugly, like a pile of yellow stuff!


    -- It''s alright, it''s alright. That big group scared me to death, but it turns out they''re just low-level monsters.


    -- The drop rate of these packages is still as high as ever. Another day without worrying about food. But apart from compressed biscuits, is there really nothing else?


    -- This experience gain is just what I needed.


    -- Ugh, my tower is a bit short. I''ve been dealing with those stragglers all day, and I haven''t had a break all day! And there are still two more days of this!


    -- Oh my, our ranking is really moving. I''ve gone up 13 spots! I''m going to join the regional battle, brothers and sisters!


    -- Absolutely do not randomly allocate attribute points, really, people will die!


    -- The twenty-first ranked player shines!


    -- Potato, who are you trying to fool? You poor loser, selling those crappy scrolls, are you kidding?


    -- You! Just wait, don''t believe it? You better pray I don''t run into you in the regional battle!


    -- Bring it on, who''s afraid of who, provided you can get into the regional battle. Potato Junk!


    ...


    As usual, there were many people chatting. Ignoring the constantly changing number of survivors, the chat channel was just an ordinary chat group.


    Calls for help and cries for mercy were quickly drowned out by other messages. The development of apathy among players was growing, fueled by caution and selfishness to survive; no one could afford to share or waste resources in this time.


    You are on your own; your life is your responsibility. Those who have the determination to survive will survive; those who have a weak heart will die.


    The world doesn''t favor the weak after all.


    Such natural selection works in a wonderful way.


    2701/10000


    When Athena and the others arrived, there were a full 10,000 people, but now there were fewer than 3,000.


    After assigning tasks to the three little ones and leaving them with plenty of provisions, she reminded them to guard the house well when she wasn''t there.


    Just before leaving, she suddenly remembered the lost soul. She called Mikmik over.


    "If the lost soul come, a small black guy, you take the parchment. Use the charcoal pen I usually use to write the words on the stones."


    After confirming that Mikmik understood, she finally left.


    Darkness is encroaching on the world, 10, 9, 8... 0


    Standing at the courtyard gate, Athena lit a medium-grade candle. This candle was synthesized from two beginner-grade candles obtained from [ Ask-The-Heavens ]. The previous one was left inside the house for Mikmik and the others.


    Please open the cap of the white wine bottle.


    Following the words in purple font, Athena opened the cap of the white wine she had carefully prepared. A scent of alcohol filled the air.


    The goblin hair in her hand emitted a faint green light, like fireflies in the darkness.


    "Woo, woo, woo..."


    "Woo, woo, woo, woo..."


    The noisy monsters around suddenly stopped their howling, as if suppressed by something.


    Strange noises echoed around.


    Under the light of the candle, Athena could barely see things in the darkness. But a sudden burst of white fog enveloped the world, making it difficult for her to see anything beyond her own hand, even though she held the candle.


    And the howling showed no signs of stopping. As time passed, it grew closer, accompanied by the sound of a cane striking the ground.


    The sound grew closer and closer, each tap of the cane on the ground causing Athena''s heart to skip a beat, not out of fear, but as if this tapping sound possessed a magical power to draw people in.


    In front of Athena, a white light lit up, and a rough and somewhat withered hand held a lantern, coming into view.


    An old man with white hair and beard walked out. His eye sockets were sunken, with only a few teeth left in his half-open mouth. Despite the wrinkles on his face, there was an air of indifference about him.


    He stood about a meter away from Athena, took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and quietly enjoyed the aroma of alcohol in the air.


    He raised the cane in his hand, like a dry branch, and slammed it hard on the ground. The goblin hair in Athena''s hand slipped out and fell into the old man''s hand.

 0049 – Athena In Goblin City

    0049 ¨C Athena In Goblin CityHe looked at the goblin hairs in his hand and laughed for a long time, saying, "It''s been a long time since I''ve seen those little guys, the third world..."


    His voice was so low that Athena couldn''t hear him clearly.


    Athena stood calmly on the side, listening to him muttering to himself. The other slowly raised his head, his wrinkled face full of seriousness, his eyes sharp as he looked at Athena.


    "But you want to go?"


    "Yes, please show me the way." While speaking, Athena handed the white wine in her hand to the other person. Without a word, the other person took the white wine, held it under his nose, took a deep sniff, and showed a look of intoxication.


    Then he aimed the bottle at his mouth and gulped down half of it.


    There was a crackling sound of bones, and the hunched old man in front of her started to straighten up, his appearance reverting to that of middle age.


    "Ha, good wine, hahaha!" The other person''s voice was hearty and full of vitality, completely different from the crazy old man with white hair before. The guide glanced at Athena with a sideways glance.


    "The round-trip expenses have been paid. Follow me closely."


    With these words to himself, he walked ahead, leading the way. Athena followed closely behind him. Wherever the middle-aged man passed, the dense fog dissipated layer by layer with the tapping of his cane, revealing a hidden path.


    Neither of them knew how long they had walked or where they had arrived. It wasn''t until the fog dissipated and Athena followed the guide to a corner that they reached a teleportation gate.


    The guide''s hair began to turn slightly gray. He placed the white wine under his nose again and took another sip, and his hair returned to its jet-black color.


    He tilted his head and pointed at the teleportation gate with his cane. Looking at Athena, he said, "Here we are. I''ll come to pick you up within three days. Don''t miss the time."


    "I won''t need three days."


    Discover goblin instance teleport entrance, want to enter, Yes / No ?


    "Yes"


    The dormant teleport entrance began its slow operation. Athena stepped into it, swallowed by the teleportation array, disappearing from the guide''s sight.


    The guide paid no attention, retracing his steps back the way he came. He placed the white wine under his nose again, sniffing its aroma delicately, occasionally exclaiming, "Good wine, good wine!"


    Entering the teleportation array, unlike the dizzying teleportations she had experienced before, this time it was a narrow, dark passage that she had to traverse herself. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Detecting possession of the World Stone, yes/no for disguise.Goblin instance consists of friendly units, no disguise required.


    "No"


    Stepping into the narrow, dark space, when she emerged, it was bright outside. This was an underground world, with countless glowing stones embedded in the ceiling, illuminating the entire underground world like daylight.


    In this underground world, goblins each had their own duties, maintaining the operation of the city as proper civilization.


    For the sudden appearance of Athena, only a few goblins glanced curiously at her before shifting their gaze away. Athena surveyed the underground market, with its intricate stone streets and various open-air markets scattered throughout.


    There was no sense of technology here, only a few wooden houses and a few stone buildings making up this underground market.


    She roughly scanned the various shops; all kinds of goods were included, but there were no food or clothing stalls. A small goblin squatting beside the stone street, upon seeing Athena''s appearance, burst into excitement in his green eyes.


    He hurriedly approached, speaking in words Athena couldn''t understand. After attempting two languages, he finally spoke words she could understand.


    "Dear visitor from the third world, is this your first time in Goblin City? I can give you an introduction for just five silver coins!" Seeing Athena''s cold face, he felt a bit frightened, trembling his ears and quickly making amends.


    "But the goblins in our city are hospitable. Let''s just take 3 silver coins."


    She was unfamiliar with the place and didn''t know the direction. Having a guide would be nice. She materialized the system''s silver coins and handed them to the little goblin. The little goblin looked happily at the silver coins in his hand, instantly perking up.


    "Alright, let me take you to see the chieftain first. Guests who come here always need to see the chieftain first."


    "Mm."


    The surrounding goblins and little goblins were very familiar, almost all the goblins would greet him upon seeing him, and it was common for them to see a human like Athena following behind him.


    After only a few minutes of walking, the little goblin led Athena to the center of Goblin City. There stood a huge stone house, adorned with intricate patterns on the outside.


    The little goblin waved to the two guards at the door, and the goblin guards let the two pass.


    "Yako go, yako go." Sitting on the main seat, the old goblin with a crown on his head opened his eyes, his eyebrows, teeth and beard were both white and perfect.


    Even though he was very old, there was not a trace of confusion in his eyes.


    "Visitors from the third world?"


    "You all arrived earlier than usual. You are the sixth to come here." The old goblin sat upright on the seat, his expression calm, yet his words were astonishing.


    "Come here, put this on."


    The old goblin beckoned to Athena, indicating her to come forward, and took out a grass-made bracelet.


    [ Goblin Bracelet ] Type:IdentificationEffect:Language TranslationIntroduction:Symbol of the Goblin City for guests. With it, you have the qualification to trade in the Goblin City.


    Seeing Athena put it on, the old goblin nodded slightly.


    "As you can see, we live underground. If possible, I would prefer you to exchange clothing and food supplies with us."


    Aathena didn''t reply because she knew it was just the old goblin''s statement and he didn''t expect her to respond.


    The little goblin beside her tugged at her sleeve, indicating that they should leave.


    It wasn''t until they left the stone house that the little goblin looked at her in confusion and couldn''t help but ask, "How did you manage to remain calm under the pressure of the chieftain?"


    Pressure? The old goblin just now emitted pressure towards her...


    Athena didn''t answer, and the little goblin wisely kept quiet.


    "Where is the workshop here? Take me there."


    Different from her previous thoughts, Athena had thought this place was a city without order, like a world of mindless green flesh-eaters, doing unspeakable things especially towards women.


    After coming here, Athena realized that there was a complete system, a complete civilization. For many goblins, this place was their home.


    She couldn''t just directly take away the goblins, and the possibility of persuading the goblins to leave with her was slim. She didn''t know where [ Big Bear ] had obtained the goblins from the silver package, not to mention wood goblins.


    This greatly exceeded her expectations, disrupted her plans, and made her very distressed. Now she could only take it step by step. If things didn''t work out, she could still make some trades, at least she had to bring something back.

 0050 – Athena Found A Blacksmith

    0050 ¨C Athena Found A BlacksmithUnexpectedly, the goblin didn''t agree; instead, he shook his head, seemingly afraid of Athena misunderstanding. He hurriedly explained, "It''s dark now, and no one is open for business. We just have the habit of keeping the doors open. If you come knocking now, no one will attend to you."


    "I''ll take you to the Third Hall. Tomorrow, when daylight comes, I''ll take you to Uncle Gowther''s workshop."


    As the goblin explained, he led the way. Despite the shops around having their doors wide open, just as the goblin said, all the goblins were busy and ruthlessly turned away any customers.


    "What is the Third Hall?"


    "How should I put it? The Third Hall is specifically built for people like you from the Third World. My grandfather said that people like you come every so often, so this hall was specially built."


    Athena remembered what the goblin chief said before. She was the sixth person from their group to arrive here. Did that mean, before her, there were others?


    "Your grandfather seems to know a lot."


    "Of course, my grandfather is the chief. Let me tell you secretly, he''s actually a messy old man, not very clean!"


    When they arrived at the chief''s residence, the goblin didn''t need to announce them, and the guards stepped aside. Athena began to have some suspicions.


    As they chatted, Athena felt something. There was an outdoor stall where a middle-aged goblin sat. He was short, with greenish skin, wearing a tattered robe and a sweat rag around his neck. His unabashed gaze fell squarely on Athena, making her uncomfortable.


    Athena, walking behind the goblin, stopped unknowingly and glanced back in the direction of the gaze, but there was nothing there, just an empty stall.


    She withdrew her gaze but remained vigilant, signaling the goblin who had stopped with her to continue leading the way.


    When they reached the block on the left, Athena finally saw the Third Hall the goblin mentioned, unlike the rustic charm of the goblin city. The Third Hall exuded a modern hotel atmosphere with chandeliers on the ceiling, modern minimalist decoration, and marble floors.


    The goblin led Athena inside and asked her to place her hand on the unmanned front desk.


    Do you want to stay at the Third Hall?


    "Yes"


    Room number being assigned...


    With the system''s prompt, a wooden card appeared out of thin air on the front desk, with the number 69 engraved on it.


    Seeing that Athena had successfully obtained the card, the goblin said, "I''ll leave now. I''ll wait for you outside tomorrow and take you to Uncle Gowther''s blacksmith shop."


    Seeing Athena nod, the goblin left.


    Following the directions on the wooden card, Athena found her room on the second floor. It was a standard single room with only a white single bed and a bedside table, though small, it had an attached washroom.


    The wooden card placed on the bedside table would display system prompts.


    Safe zone established! Without the player''s voluntary agreement, no creatures can enter.


    It was nearing dawn now. Athena felt the opportunity was rare, so she diligently washed up, changed into the pajamas prepared in the room, then threw her clothes into the washing machine at the end of the hallway, washed and dried them, before finally going to sleep.


    Outside the Third Hall, the middle-aged goblin, wearing tattered old blankets, walked around and around before deeply glancing at the Third Hall and leaving.


    Athena stood by the window, watching below. When she saw the figure leave, she finally pulled down a corner of the curtain.


    Daylight has come, please begin exploring the world!


    Even in the goblin city, brightly lit by overhead rocks, the system dutifully reminded her, indicating she was still in the battle zone.


    The goblin arrived punctually as agreed. When he arrived, he saw Athena leaning against the door frame waiting for him.


    Seeing him, Athena stood up and said, "Let''s go."


    Seemingly surprised by his early arrival, the goblin took two quick steps and caught up with her pace, leading the way.


    The market in daylight was indeed much busier than in darkness. The once empty stalls were now filled with a variety of goods. All kinds of armor and weapons were available, though they all seemed to be of ordinary quality at first glance.


    The goblin led her to a stone house, lifting the cloth door curtain. Inside were weapons: knives, swords, bows, daggers, spears, and various quality shields hung on the walls.


    Inside, the continuous clanging of forging resounded. The goblin carefully pushed open a crack in the door. The middle-aged goblin inside was fully focused on forging iron blocks, each strike carrying a weighty force, gradually shaping a weapon in his hands.


    His muscles tensed, the iron hammer in his hand swung up and down, the sound of forging like a musical composition. The arrival of the goblin didn''t interrupt him; his gaze was fixed on his creation, sweat dripping from his forehead. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The goblin closed the door again and said to Athena, "We might have to wait a while. Uncle Gowther is busy now."


    Athena nodded understandingly. She surveyed the array of weapons in the room, finally setting her eyes on a pile of weapons. From the pile, she pulled out a long spear.


    The spear had a cold metallic texture throughout, with an exceptionally sharp and pointed tip, seemingly capable of piercing through anything with ease.


    Swinging it, she created a graceful arc through the air. The tip vibrated, causing the entire spear to tremble slightly.


    A good weapon, she thought. The "Uncle Gowther" the goblin mentioned must be a master. To craft such a weapon required not only accumulated time and experience but also exquisite skills.


    She then turned her gaze to the bows and arrows hanging on the wall. Among the cold metallic-colored weapons, there was a bright red bow and arrow, particularly eye-catching. The bow had a perfect curve, and when the string was pulled slightly, it exhibited excellent flexibility and resilience.


    Detected a bow suitable for merging with Moonlight Archery Set. Merge?


    "...?!"


    This prompt surprised Athena. Since she obtained the Moonlight Bow And Arrows, she had considered the implications of a growth-type weapon, but until now, there had been no change in her weapon.


    Unexpectedly, the growth of the Moonlight Arrows and Moonlight Bow required fusion with other tools.


    "Creak."


    The heavy wooden door was opened from inside, and the blacksmith walked out. He was short, wearing a tattered robe, with a sweat rag around his neck. At this moment, he wiped the sweat from his forehead with the rag, revealing the middle-aged goblin who had followed Athena last night...


    And upon seeing Athena, there was a momentary stiffness in his body, and he turned around for some reason.

 0051 – Athena Received Goblin Bracelet

    0051 ¨C Athena Received Goblin BraceletAthena naturally recognized him but remained composed, as if she hadn''t noticed anything. The other party casually moved his gaze away and wiped the sweat off his hands. "What do you need to buy?"


    Placing the red bow and arrow in front of her, Athena inquired about the price. "How much is this?"


    The old man just glanced faintly at it. "50 silver coins, but if you have food, that would be even better."


    He looked outside thoughtfully. "After all, in this barren and desolate place, food is more valuable than anything."


    Athena simply nodded. The bow and arrow were worth the price, but she wasn''t planning to buy them now. Seeing her put the bow and arrow back in place, the old man casually asked, "Is your main weapon the bow and arrow?"


    "No, to be precise, it''s both the bow and arrow and an axe."


    The old man, hearing Athena''s words, opened his mouth with a hint of confusion. "An axe?"


    "Yes."


    Just to verify her words, Athena took her axe from her spatial backpack and placed it on the table. The old man looked at this ordinary axe, his expression momentarily cracking.


    He shouted loudly, "Grey! Bring the axe from my storeroom."


    "Alright, right away!" Her voice was clear and lively, characteristic of a young person''s vigor and soft heart.


    Grey, who was still crafting weapons inside, hastily set down her work, not even wiping the sweat from her forehead, and rushed towards the storeroom.


    After rummaging through the messy storeroom for a while, Grey couldn''t find the axe the old man mentioned. Frustrated, she paced around for a moment, then suddenly slapped her forehead, remembering a box tucked away in the corner.


    She leaned into the box and searched, her eyes suddenly lighting up as she found a hint of black hidden beneath other items.


    She pulled it out forcefully!


    It was a pure black axe, absorbing all light as if it were made of darkness itself. The blade shimmered with a cold light, incredibly sharp, wrapped in a thick layer of leather at the handle for a comfortable grip, allowing one to hold it firmly.


    Grey grasped the heavy axe and carried it towards the outer room.


    Outside, a subtle atmosphere formed between Athena and the old man. The outer room was eerily quiet, and the goblin had already found an excuse in this awkward atmosphere to slip away unnoticed.


    Grey broke this delicate balance by bringing the axe. The old man took the axe from her and felt the blade with his hand. Despite years of being buried, the axe hadn''t lost its original luster and sharpness. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When it appeared before everyone again, it still shone brightly. Athena''s gaze had been fixed on the black axe from the moment Grey brought it out.


    The old man waved at her, handing her the axe, indicating she should try it. Athena didn''t hesitate. She gripped the leather handle of the black axe, its coolness and unique toughness evident. The leather prevented sweat from wetting the grip, allowing for a firmer hold.


    She swung the axe, using the skill "Attachment"!


    A powerful force attached to the black axe, and its already sharp blade gleamed with a cold light. With a swift swing, it seemed unstoppable, cutting through the air and creating a blade of air.


    As the blade was about to touch the shield hanging on the wall, an air arrow shot from the air, and both dissipated.


    "Young woman, be careful. Everything in my shop is precious."


    [ Crimson Bow ] Quality: Excellent Type: Ranged WeaponDurability: 50/50 (Repairable, not upgradable)[ Black Abyss Axe ] Quality:  Extremely RareUnique Type:Growth-Type WeaponDurability: 50/50 (Repairable, not upgradable)


    The crimson bow in the old man''s hand was a rare excellent quality, while the black abyss axe in Athena''s hand was an extremely rare growth-type weapon. Grey, on the side, couldn''t contain her excitement and kept poking the old man''s waist.


    "Sorry, I was just trying it out," Athena sincerely apologized. She hadn''t expected the axe to be so powerful and to fit her so well.


    Seeing that time was almost up, the old man said to her, "If you really like them, I can sell them to you for a bit cheaper. Both for 50 silver coins. But I need to get back to work now; you can come later."


    Just as Athena was pondering his words, the goblin hurriedly ran back from outside. Her first reaction upon arrival was to pull Athena aside.


    "Grandpa, not this way. The chief is looking for you miss. Let''s go there first, and we''ll bring you back to see other things later."


    After they left, the old man looked back at Grey, slightly pushed away her hand that was poking him.


    "With your temperament, you still want to go out. Don''t come crying back later!"


    Grey shook her hand and laughed indifferently, "It''s okay, if I come back crying, then I come back crying. It''s not like you and Mother aren''t there. Besides, I might not necessarily cry when I come back."


    The chief''s residence...


    Returning to this place, Athena couldn''t understand why the goblin chief wanted to see her. There was no difference from her last visit, except that this time, the goblin chief had a pipe in his mouth.


    The goblin chief was different from last time, his eyes much kinder.


    "Quickly, a visitor from the third world, you should have told me when you came last time. Achieving this during this time period is quite remarkable." The goblin chief praised Athena as he approached her.


    He took a puff from his pipe, then held it in his hand, exhaling a puff of smoke. He gestured for Athena to hand over her bracelet. Athena looked at her goblin bracelet and handed it over.


    But the goblin chief didn''t take it, he just picked up the pipe. He gently tapped it, and it emitted a faint glow, smoke swirling around the bracelet.


    The grass-made bracelet radiated its original vitality, unexpectedly unfolding a leaf, and its color became brighter.


    [ Goblin Bracelet (Lv.1) ]Type: IdentificationEffect:Language TranslationIntroduction: A symbol given to guests by the Goblin City. With it, you have the qualification to trade in the Goblin City.


    "The goblin bracelet with a level is special; with it, you can go to important areas."


    Seemingly aware that Athena was checking the attribute panel, the goblin chief just smiled beside her. The little goblin stood aside, staring dumbfounded, unable to understand why the bracelet was being upgraded for Athena.


    But she was thinking more about how to ask Athena for a higher price, after all, there was one more place to take her.


    "Go ahead, let the little one take you to explore deeper areas. Your strength can only improve there. This is a gift from our Goblin tribe."

 0052 – Athena And Potion Learning

    0052 ¨C Athena And Potion LearningAthena withdrew her hand, and the gift seemed more like an investment.


    "Thank you, I''ll take the gift," she said.


    Upon hearing her response, the goblin chief nodded in satisfaction. No one spoke again, and an awkward silence fell over the scene. Athena took her guide assigned by the chief, a little goblin named Garfield, and left first.


    After leaving the chief''s residence for a while, Athena carefully rubbed the bracelet on her hand. It had a cool wooden texture, and apart from an extra leaf, there was nothing particularly special about it.


    Seeing her studying the bracelet intently, with her head held high and an indescribable air of arrogance on her face, Garfield said incessantly, "It''s useless, this bracelet. Look, there''s nothing special about it!"


    "Only our goblin tribe can distinguish its authenticity!"


    "Because... never mind, let me take you to the next level. With this special goblin bracelet, you can go there." Garfield spoke non-stop, his eyes full of excitement, while Athena listened quietly on the side.


    After a few turns, they returned to the familiar Third Hall. Athena surveyed the Third Hall. There were no special buildings nearby, nor any passages. In this street, the Third Hall itself was the most special.


    A small green figure waved to her, signaling her to hurry over. Beside the Third Hall, Garfield stood there, placing his hand on the ground and chanting unknown words.


    "Mahhneeghaa, Mahhneeghaa, Mahhneeghaa..."


    A barrier appeared around them, separating them from the outside world. They could still see outside, but no one outside could see or hear what was happening inside.


    Bright ripples spread outward from Garfield''s hand, finally stopping at a circle. Garfield stood at the very center of the circle, followed closely by Athena, who stepped inside.


    The entire circular ground sank downwards, and Athena''s bracelet responded to the ground, emitting a faint glow. The ground slowly descended until it reached a certain height, then stopped descending, stable.


    Garfield clapped his hands, and the dimly lit passage lit up with neatly arranged torches, illuminating the passage and revealing details that were previously hidden in darkness.


    Strange patterns and traces left by time were all visible, and the passage was no longer eerie but rather mysterious and solemn.


    Exiting the passage, there was no apparent difference from the surface of the goblin city, except that the open-air stalls around had turned into stone houses, and the goblins on the street were mostly children and women. Unlike before, they didn''t come up to greet Garfield actively; instead, they showed more respect.


    Garfield didn''t intend to go any further after bringing Athena out of the passage. He rarely looked serious as he said to Athena, "Your bracelet is connected to the descent platform. You can now come and go freely. There are only two wooden houses on this level. You can go see for yourself. My task is done, I''m going back. It''s best for you to return to the Third Hall before dark."


    Having said that, he didn''t wait for Athena''s response and walked away first.


    Looking around, Athena found that, as Garfield had said, there were more wooden houses than stone houses on the upper level, but on this level, there were only two wooden houses.


    She walked towards the nearest one, but was suddenly intercepted by a gorgeously dressed goblin lady who rushed out and blocked her way.


    She was visibly angry, but when she saw Athena, she tried her best to suppress her temper and forced a smile, asking, "Excuse me, have you seen our Garfield?"


    Athena understood; this was Garfield''s mother, the chief''s wife. She gestured towards the passage and said to the goblin lady, "He''s already gone."


    There was a moment of speechlessness from the goblin lady, followed by even more anger. Athena saw her turn around angrily and head back in the direction she had come from, muttering curses as she walked.


    "Damn child, following his father all day long, is the family going to be ruined because of him?"


    After this incident, the goblins who hadn''t paid attention to Athena before all cast glances at her. Athena didn''t mind but unconsciously quickened her pace towards the first wooden house.


    The material of the wooden house was different from that of the upper level; it was not ordinary wood but made from ancient trees, with faintly visible annual rings and a woody fragrance.


    She politely knocked on the door a few times, and the voice of an old goblin came from inside, "Come in."


    Athena opened the wooden door and stepped inside. Inside the house, there was a large stone pot, and an old goblin occasionally added some materials that Athena had never seen before, stirring constantly. The thick green liquid in the pot bubbled, emitting an unpleasant smell.


    The top of the wooden house was hung with various monster corpses and dried plants. The old goblin glanced at Athena sideways, then continued stirring his pot.


    It wasn''t until the green liquid began to turn transparent and return to a state like clear water that the old goblin took out a pile of potion bottles and filled them with the liquid.


    "What does a person from the Third World want from me?" The old goblin picked up one of the potion bottles and handed it to Athena, saying, "A token of our meeting."


    [ Healing Potion ]Quality:GoodCategory:PotionEffect:Quickly heals heavy injuries sustained before breaching, and normal injuries sustained after breaching!This potion can save lives and is extremely precious. Use with caution, as using it when uninjured will have adverse effects!


    Athena expressed her gratitude and accepted it. She wouldn''t refuse such a valuable item.


    He was a master of potions, as the saying goes: "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."


    She astonishingly said, "I want to learn how to make potions!"


    To her surprise, the goblin showed no anger or surprise at Athena''s words. Instead, he approached her and instructed her to squat down. He then pressed his fingertips firmly on her forehead. He looked somewhat surprised as he said, "Your mental strength is good."


    Then he lowered his head in thought and went to the bookshelf, taking out a book for Athena to examine. Athena attempted to flip through the book, which contained various potion recipes ranging from poor quality to normal quality.


    Her head began to ache, and she felt like clutching her head and crouching down. She couldn''t turn to the next page. The goblin took the book from her hand and shook his head.


    "No, it''s too early. You won''t understand these things at your current stage. I won''t sell you anything here. You came too early, and none of these things are affordable for you."


    "Let''s go. Perhaps Master would be more suitable for you. If that doesn''t work out... then just go back." He took out another bottle of good quality healing potion from the shelf and handed it to Athena.


    "Take this one too. Hopefully, you''ll come back alive." It was clearly a dismissal. Athena thanked him again and knew she really couldn''t touch these things now, nor could she stay for long.


    As she pushed open the door to leave, the goblin casually said something from behind. "Remember a few of those potion recipes I showed you earlier. Practicing them won''t do you any harm." sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena''s steps faltered as she left. She had actually memorized two of the potion recipes he had shown her just now.

 0053 – Rebellious Race of Darkness

    0053 ¨C Rebellious Race of DarknessFarewelling the eccentric old man, Athena recalled the two potion formulas she just memorized in her mind. Without delay, she went to find another wooden cabin.


    Unlike the tranquility just now, as soon as she arrived at the doorstep of this cabin, she could hear waves of curses coming from inside. The other party was obviously very irritable. Just as Athena was about to knock on the door, there was a violent explosion from inside.


    The door was pushed open forcefully, and Athena quickly stepped back, avoiding being hit. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A burst of black smoke emanated from inside, and an old man rushed out of it, coughing while not forgetting to use the cloth in his hand to wipe his glasses before putting them back on.


    The curses from his mouth never stopped, and only after he finished venting did he notice Athena standing beside him.


    He just frowned slightly, not saying much, and asked Athena to follow him inside. Athena hesitated for a moment as she looked at the still smoke-filled room, but still followed in. The pungent smell of gunpowder made her uncomfortable, and the dense black smoke made it impossible for her to open her eyes.


    At a very fast pace, the old man opened both sides of the room, and the smoke gradually began to dissipate.


    There wasn''t much small talk; the other party seemed to be in a hurry.


    "Come here quickly, what are you standing there for? Do I have to invite you? Have you not seen how busy the old man is here? You don''t even understand respecting the elderly and loving the young! Call me Mu!"


    "Yes"


    Athena found his words somewhat inexplicable, but still obediently walked over to the elder goblin, Mu''s side.


    Mu didn''t take out any strange books for her to read; instead, he took out some materials and tried to mix a kind of gunpowder. He then took ordinary yellow soil from the side, carefully wrapped the gunpowder in it, and meticulously wiped it with a kind of oil before finally relaxing and placing the earth ball aside.


    Athena had been attentively watching from the side all along. After Mu placed the earth ball aside, he said to her, "I''ve demonstrated it, now it''s your turn."


    Mu made room for Athena, and she followed Mu''s steps carefully, step by step, replicating them. She was very cautious with each step, very serious, not daring to make the slightest mistake, so each step took several times longer than Mu''s.


    Until she completed the final step, she also tried to replicate Mu as accurately and carefully as possible.


    In fact, she succeeded.


    [ Fireburst Ball ]Category: Alchemical ProductQuality:InferiorEffect: After exploding, it will cause continuous flame damage for 3 seconds.From player-made products, inferior products occasionally fail to function.


    Mu did not rush her during the whole process, nor did he disdain her slowness. Instead, he would sometimes seriously correct some of her steps.


    Seeing that she had really produced it, Mu was even more surprised than Athena herself. He struggled to suppress his expression, but still couldn''t help twitching his face.


    "A low-quality product, really embarrassing." Mu complained about her while putting a large pile of materials into a sack, then placing the sack aside.


    Mu didn''t mean to hurry Athena away; instead, he pressed her onto a chair, letting her make more Fireburst Balls. He claimed that the inferior products made by Athena were intolerable to him.


    Almost the whole afternoon, Athena didn''t get up from the chair, she kept making Fireburst Balls. The first production obviously had a luck bonus, so it succeeded once.


    In the subsequent production process, there were inevitably a few explosions. Both of them had to run out of the wooden cabin several times, and Athena couldn''t help but be scolded by Mu.


    It wasn''t until Athena felt a headache that Mu let her go. However, it was only for her to rest for a while. When her headache subsided, she began the repetitive process again.


    While Athena was making them, Mu was always guiding her on the side, instructing her on how to add, how much to add, and when was the best time, being precise and detailed.


    Until Athena made the fourth Fireburst Ball and placed it on the table, this lengthy manufacturing process finally came to an end. Not because she had satisfied Mu, but because it was almost time.


    "Why does time pass so quickly? It''s all because of you, making things so slow!"


    "Remember to come earlier tomorrow, got it? Young ears like yours aren''t good for hearing in the morning."


    Athena stood up, took a deep breath, finally having some time to catch her breath. The way Mu said that indicated that she might have some talent after all. Otherwise, with his character, he probably wouldn''t even bother with her.


    It''s 5 o''clock now, still two hours until 7. She asked, "Why do we have to go back before darkness falls?" If this were in the surface world, Athena could understand, but the Goblin City isn''t affected by darkness.


    Darkness and daylight don''t have any impact on them, so why emphasize resting before darkness and working when daylight comes?


    Mu''s mood soured instantly upon hearing Athena''s question. Irritably, he said, "Rules are rules. Once you believe in daylight, you must be loyal. Stop with the questions, just go back quickly."


    Athena now had a good understanding of Mu''s temperament. Completely ignoring his prickly tone, she was just a little concerned about the content of his words. But Mu clearly didn''t want to discuss this topic with her, so she didn''t press further and left.


    Back on the upper level, she hurried to the blacksmith''s shop. Uncle Gowther wasn''t hammering iron; instead, he was sitting quietly inside the shop, while his nephew Grey seemed half asleep beside him.


    Seeing Athena, Uncle Gowther''s gaze was somewhat complicated, as if saying, "I told you to come later, but you came so late."


    Uncle Gowther slapped Grey awake, "Wake up, if you keep sleeping, you''ll have to figure things out on your own!" Grey, startled by his words, quickly stood up, showing that she was wide awake.


    The [ Crimson Bow ] and the [ Black Abyss Axe ] were still not returned to their original positions; they were waiting for Athena in front of the counter.


    "50 silver coins is the lowest price I can offer you. What do you think?" Uncle Gowther looked sincerely at Athena.


    Today Athena realized that she had overestimated her purchasing power with silver coins. 50 silver coins could buy her two weapons, which was completely within the range of ''almost free''.


    But there''s no such thing as a free lunch in the world. She was very tempted by these two weapons, but couldn''t think of a reason why Uncle Gowther would treat her so generously.


    "Are there any additional conditions?" Athena rubbed the Black Abyss Axe''s handle. The cold touch was captivating. She was so enchanted that she couldn''t give it up.


    Uncle Gowther had long known that no one could resist his weapons. He deeply resented Grey''s excitement beside him, wishing she could be more mature.


    "It''s nothing difficult. Just sign an equal contract with her, allowing her to go out with you. That''s it."


    "These two weapons will be the admission fee I give her. Although my child''s skills aren''t refined, she still deserves some of my true teachings..." Uncle Gowther kept talking, and Athena couldn''t find a suitable opportunity to interrupt.


    "While she''s staying with you, you can also ask her to help you forge some weapons, as part of her accommodation fee."


    When he stopped, Athena hurriedly inserted, "Just need to sign an equal contract? Take her out?"


    Uncle Gowther said indifferently, "Without the help of your third world, we wouldn''t dare to venture into the outside world."


    "The Goblin race is a renegade, rebellious race from darkness. We betrayed the darkness and chose to follow daylight. There''s not a monster that doesn''t hate us, and darkness is our grave..."

 0054 – Athena Got Another Contract

    0054 ¨C Athena Got Another Contract"Where are the taboos? They''ve just imposed shackles on themselves. But I won''t play along with them." Uncle Gowther scoffed at the matter, then turned to admonish Athena.


    "You''re different from me. You still have to abide by the rules here and besides, she''s an innocent child so you won''t get to worry. It''s getting late now, give me an answer." After Uncle Gowther finished speaking, he pushed the two weapons forward.


    Athena was tempted. It seemed that Grey next to him wanted to go out. He dared only to live in the Goblin city. But now there was Grey, a little goblin girl filled with yearning for the outside world.


    Uncle Gowther also knew that only with the help of the system''s power could Grey be kept safe.


    This was actually a win-win situation. Athena could get the desired weapons and also gain a craftsman who could help forge weapons. On the other hand, the other party could see a world they had never seen before.


    With this in mind, there was nothing to hesitate about.


    Athena reached out and took the two weapons, naturally putting them into the system''s backpack, and then placed a money pouch on the table.


    "Here''s 50 silver coins."


    Uncle Gowther didn''t count them but instead took out a sheepskin parchment that Athena was very familiar with. The lost soul she bullied often used this kind of sheepskin parchment to communicate with her.


    It seemed that this sheepskin parchment was also a kind of hard currency.


    [ Contract ]


    Signed a contract with the craftsman goblin ''Grey''. The other party works for you, and you provide shelter for the other party.


    Yes / No ?


    "Yes"


    The contract has been established, and the sheepskin parchment emits a faint light. Under the gaze of Athena and Uncle Gowther, Grey was sucked into the parchment and turned into an ink painting.


    She ran around in the painting, very excited, because she knew that when Athena returned to the shelter, she would be able to come out. This was the first time in her life that she had come into contact with the surface world.


    It had been her dream for more than ten years. Since she knew that besides their goblin city, there was another world, she had been longing for it, full of endless yearning and longing for the unknown territory.


    But then she knew that they were renegades of darkness and couldn''t leave, which filled her with deep powerlessness and despair.


    Uncle Gowther sighed helplessly again. If Grey wanted to go to a broader world, then he could only pave the way for her, and the rest of the road would depend on her own.


    He quietly looked at Athena, just hoping that he hadn''t misjudged her. He didn''t dare to gamble on a person''s pure conscience, so he prepared the crimson bow and black abyss axe for her, and also raised Grey into a qualified craftsman.


    Although there were thousands of thoughts and worries in his heart, seeing Grey so happy, the tight expression on his face gradually relaxed.


    He opened the somewhat old drawer in front of him and pulled out two old books from inside.


    "Yesterday, I noticed that your axe skills were lacking, since both bow and axe are your main weapons, practice well. Although I am a craftsman, I have been collecting things for many years."


    On the clean table, there were two yellowed and tattered books. Athena picked them up and brushed off the dust on them. One was about the correct use of various weapons, and the other was about basic martial arts for strengthening the body.


    "Thank you." This ''thank you'' came from the bottom of her heart, a sincere gratitude.


    "Next time you come, don''t look for a guide. Who knows when his mood will be bad, and you''ll end up as his bottle of wine!"


    Uncle Gowther tried to pull up Athena''s hand, and Athena didn''t stop him. Uncle Gowther held Athena''s hand and used his strength to fall backward.


    You defeated Goblin ''Gowther Gumbledore''!


    Goblin Encyclopedia Generating... Golden Card Page!


    Old habits die hard, a classic bug, an exploit. Athena looked at Uncle Gowther as if nothing had happened, patted the dust off his body, and showed deep admiration.


    Uncle Gowther waved his hand, "Go back quickly, don''t come again tomorrow, it''s inconvenient for us with too many people."


    Athena nodded in understanding, but when she left, she left behind a sack containing fresh fruits and vegetables.


    Ordinary goblins were not allowed to use the system''s silver coins, but the goblin chieftain somehow made a deal with the system and obtained the system panel.


    However, it was limited to using the system''s mall function, and the items sold inside were very different from those of Athena and the others.


    When Athena stayed at the goblin chieftain''s place, she saw many goblins queuing up. After exchanging their silver coins, they would receive bags of food in return.


    Back at the Third Hall, Athena sat on the bed and rarely opened the system panel. The experience point prompt had been turned off by her, because when she was here, she would occasionally receive experience points from the monsters she killed.


    Experience Points: 643


    This number might increase even more tomorrow. What Athena didn''t expect was that after a day of making fireburst bombs, her mental power had autonomously increased by 0.1.


    She used to often try to control the earth wall to increase her mental strength, and this increase in mental power was the result of her previous and today''s exercise.


    -- Great, with this monster grinding speed, I can keep this up for a few more days!


    -- Are they bragging up there? I''m almost tired like a dog!


    -- Why does my ranking fluctuate so much! Can''t it stabilize? Let me know if I can participate in the regional battle!


    -- Regional battle, such a distant horizon. I''m ranked over 600 now, there''s no hope at all.


    -- Same here, I feel like I''m strong enough, but when I look at my ranking, it''s way behind. How are these rankings determined?


    -- Maybe it''s not a ranking issue, have you ever thought about it? It''s possible that you''re just overestimating yourself...


    -- Actually, grinding these small monsters every day isn''t bad at all. At least seeing the experience points rise makes me feel accomplished.


    -- When they go to participate in the regional battle, what will we do? Continue grinding monsters? Or do we need to arrange a new round of monsters for us?


    -- I don''t know, but with the system''s personality, it''s definitely not going to be easy for us!


    -- It feels like the big shots haven''t been active lately, did they all run off to prepare? I really hope our district can win, the regional subsidies are no joke, it makes me envious! Those of us who don''t participate can also win by lying down!


    -- Are there companion dolls in the system mall?


    -- The person above is in heat and desperate. Please system banned him!


    -- Considered the idea


    The discussions in the regional chat channel were varied, but most of the topics revolved around the regional battle.


    Paopao was completely forced into the position of being the chef because Athena had mentioned before that she wanted it to handle the ladle. Now that Athena was not there, it became the chef of the house.


    Carefully placing the pot on the fire, it threw the whole vegetables directly into it. Mikmik stood aside, recalling how Athena usually added seasoning, and poured it in according to the same proportion.


    Stirring the soup with its clumsy claws, Paopao sometimes accidentally burned its paws, but Mikmik and Witty encouraged it. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After a lot of effort, a pot of soup was finally made, but the taste was really not up to par. The three of them secretly made up their minds that when Athena returned, they must make a good pot of soup to surprise her!

 0055 – Athena On Her Way Home

    0055 ¨C Athena On Her Way HomeFrom the system backpack, she took out the Moonlight Bow and then retrieved the Crimson Bow, placing them together.


    Detected bow capable of fusion with Moonlight Bow, merge?


    "Yes"


    The power of the system pulled the Crimson Bow closer to the Moonlight Bow. Its body began to tremble slightly but couldn''t break free, gradually turning into a mass of red liquid. This liquid shimmered faintly like flowing mercury as it merged into the Moonlight Bow.


    In an instant, the Moonlight Bow radiated a dazzling light. The lunar power swirling on its surface became dense, emitting a faintly unsettling aura.


    The Moonlight Bow finally transformed, living up to its name, becoming a silver-white hue emanating faint red aura.


    [ Moonlight Bow ] Quality:Extremely RareUnique CategoryGrowth-Type WeaponDurability:50/50 (repairable, upgradable)Weapon Skill:Moonlight (arrows shot with lunar power cause damage to enemies. 1 damage per second upon entry, escalating to 10 damage per second after 3 seconds!)


    The bow in her hand seemed to truly embody the pure moonlight hanging in the sky. Athena retrieved the Moonlight Bow.


    She then took out two books from Uncle Gowther and began to study them earnestly.


    "Chop, hack, cleave, smear, smash, wrap, intercept, etc. These methods make the axe appear rugged and heroic during use, capable of displaying a mighty demeanor akin to splitting mountains and opening paths."


    "Hold the axe with the dominant hand, the hand positioned between the tail and the midpoint of the handle. The specific position depends on the user''s preference and strength... Grip the axe primarily using the thumb, index finger, and middle finger, allowing the axe to rotate around these three fingers..."


    As she studied, Athena kept experimenting until late into the night before finally falling asleep.


    The next day, after freshening up, she left the third hall. This time, there was no little goblin waiting outside, but she was already familiar with the process. She found the location of the descent elevator and proceeded to the next floor.


    Upon reaching the next floor, she arrived at the familiar small wooden house. As usual, there was no one in sight but the sound could be heard first.


    Mu''s voice was loud enough to penetrate the entire next floor.


    Athena politely knocked on the door, but Mu didn''t come to open it, so she opened it herself and walked in.


    At that moment, Mu was trying to reach for something on the shelf above, grumbling to himself while tiptoeing, with a stool right beside him which he didn''t use.


    Seeing Athena, he directed her to fetch something from the cabinet. Athena raised her hand and took down the object, a gray jar containing a white powder.


    "If you''re here, don''t just stand there. I taught you yesterday, did you forget already? Keep going!"


    Looking at the familiar scene, Athena sighed deeply in her heart and sat down. The materials on the table had been replaced with a new batch, clearly prepared for Athena.


    "With your current level, you''re only fit to make Fireburst Balls. Don''t be dissatisfied. Mastering this alone will sustain you for a lifetime. Don''t think about anything else for now."


    "At the very least, you need to produce a good quality one!"


    Mu could sense Athena''s helplessness and said impatiently.


    Athena also knew that Mu was right. She wasn''t dissatisfied; she was just lamenting.


    Repeatedly making and remaking, unfortunately, from day to afternoon, all the Fireburst Balls Athena made were still inferior products, with only one approaching average quality but still falling slightly short.


    Mu''s mouth went dry from all the scolding as he drank water angrily. As Athena was about to leave in a hurry, he took out a sack he had scavenged yesterday and gave it to her.


    "Even when you go back, don''t forget to practice more. There''s only this much material. Once it''s used up, you''ll have to figure it out yourself. Truly foolish!"


    Athena looked at the sack he brought over, reached out to take it, but didn''t open up this stubborn old man. She hadn''t spent much time with Mu, and their interactions were mostly filled with Mu''s dissatisfaction and complaints, along with his guidance.


    "Don''t say that. Who knows, maybe I''ll be back sooner than you think?" Athena said with a smile.


    Mu looked at her as if she were an idiot. "Don''t even think about finding another guide. That method is only good for one use."


    "Okay." Athena didn''t argue further. She simply took out a bag of vegetables and handed it to him.


    The vegetables she brought were divided into four portions. One portion was given to Uncle Gowther, one to Mu, another to the goblin who had given her two bottles of potion, and the last portion, as she was leaving, she gave to the tribe leader, coincidentally with little Garfield nearby.


    Even though everyone advised her to stay away from guides, Athena had no choice. She didn''t come here through the system''s teleportation, so she couldn''t directly return using the system''s teleportation array. So, reluctantly, she summoned the guide at the teleportation array.


    The familiar sound of the horn and the sound of the cane, the old man holding a lantern, once again entered Athena''s sight.


    The guide only glanced faintly at Athena. There was still half a bottle of white wine left from the last time Athena had brought it for him. He took a sip and reverted back to his middle-aged appearance before leading Athena back.


    Walking through the mist-covered path, unaware of the time, Athena was once again sent back to the courtyard gate.


    The perimeter of the courtyard was full of traces of battle, scattered thorny vines, and craters left behind by artillery fire.


    Seeing Athena''s return, the thorny vines began to grow and bloom beautiful flowers. Athena squatted down and placed the broken vines back into the ground, helping them to absorb quickly.


    "I''ll remind them next time to remember to help collect the vines," Athena said soothingly as she touched their flowers.


    Entering the courtyard, parchment paper bounced out of the spatial backpack and unfolded slowly, followed by Grey emerging from the parchment.


    She curiously looked around, feeling very amazed by everything here. She even reached out to touch the thorny vines but got pricked.


    The prince and princess, who were squatting at the door, started to get excited and jumped around. This drew the attention of the three little ones inside the house, who opened the door slightly and, upon seeing Athena, excitedly rushed over.


    Due to her haste when descending the stairs, one of the grassball creatures, Paopao, tumbled down. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Long time no see, everyone. You''ve worked hard," Athena said. Mikmik crawled onto Athena''s shoulder, while Paopao and Witty were embraced by her. All three little ones were cautiously watching Grey.


    "Let me introduce my friend, Grey. From now on, she will live with us."


    Grey scratched her head somewhat embarrassedly. "Hello, everyone. I''m Grey, an adventurous girl."


    Not only the three little ones but even Athena was shocked. She had always thought Grey was a boy...


    After all, her body figure didn''t resemble the goblin girls she had seen before even those in young age. She even recalled a peculiar sight where she witnessed a group of goblin men wearing women''s clothing on stage, surrounded by a cheering audience.


    So, with Grey''s feminine voice and girlish name, Athena had assumed Grey belonged to that side of the spectrum and chose to forget about it.


    One could easily discern the gender of a goblin based on body figure alone, but it seemed this wasn''t the case for her new friend.


    Athena looked at Grey, whose body was muscular and physically robust, comparable to professional athletes. Such a child to develop this amazing physique in her young age is remarkable which Athena can''t help but amaze and respect the female goblin.

 0056 – Massive Upgrades!

    0056 ¨C Massive Upgrades!When she returned to the long-lost house, thick hot soup was bubbling inside. Under the expectant gazes of the three little ones, Athena tentatively tasted the pot of unknown liquid.


    It was much better than she had imagined. The taste wasn''t great, but it was edible. She praised Paopao a bit and encouraged it to keep up the good work.


    The casual words spoken at that time unexpectedly left an impression on these three little ones, who even took action, which genuinely surprised her.


    Grey served her a full bowl, and she didn''t pass up the peaches placed beside it, stuffing them one after another into her mouth.


    Athena showed the jacked little gobin girl around the layout of the shelter. When they saw the smelting furnace in the workshop, Grey couldn''t move another step.


    Athena simply tidied up the workshop and set up a simple wooden bed with straw matting for her, even enduring the pain to give her an extra quilt.


    She took out some long-stored blueprints from the system backpack.


    [ Bow and Arrow Manufacturing Blueprint ] Category: Weapon Manufacturing BlueprintQuality:OrdinaryIntroduction:Hand it over to a reliable craftsman, and as long as you provide the materials, you will have a steady supply of bows and arrows.


    "Can you make this?" Athena handed the blueprint to Grey, who took it and nodded heavily.


    "No problem, it''s a piece of cake!"


    "Okay, what materials do you need for this? You can gather them yourself. If you can''t find any, you can ask Witty and Paopao. I might be out for a few days."


    Yes, this time''s regional battle, she only intended to bring Mikmik. Not only because Mikmik was the only pet allowed in this regional battle, but also because Mikmik was the best at hiding among them. In case of sudden situations, Mikmik was also the easiest to escape and could gather intelligence for her.


    Moreover, the house couldn''t be left unattended.


    Understanding nodded. Athena closed the door, then turned back and asked.


    "If you don''t have the tools for making blueprints, can you still make them?"


    Grey nodded first, then quickly shook her head.


    She said solemnly to Athena, "I can make other weapons, but there are limitations to the contracts of the Third World. Even if I make them, they will be unusable. If forcibly used, it may incur severe punishments."


    She knew the system''s loopholes wouldn''t be so easy to exploit to gain unlimited resources. Otherwise, with enough materials, she would have had a mobile arsenal all over.


    "Well, good night."


    "Wait!" Grey quickly stopped Athena, who was hesitating, and said firmly in the end, "I need to have some time of my own during the day, so sometimes I may go out during the day."


    "Don''t worry, I can protect myself. I won''t cause any trouble, and I''ll be back before darkness falls."


    "Okay."


    Athena returned to her soft bed.


    The bed in the Third Hall was pretty good, but it still couldn''t compare to the one she had built herself.


    The results of the battles of the past two days and today added up to a total of six white packages and one blue package, and her experience points had skyrocketed to 739.


    The white packages had already been opened by Mikmik and the others and were placed aside. They contained some compressed biscuits, mineral water, and occasionally some snacks.


    The blue package was left untouched, waiting for Athena to come back and open it.


    Received 100 wood blocks, 100 stone blocks!


    "Bad luck..."


    Some normal supplies, nothing surprising.


    After these two days of mental training, Athena could clearly feel that her mental strength had loosened again.


    She exchanged for 0.1 attribute points and tried to add them. The addition was successful, and her mental strength smoothly reached the barrier of 5 points.


    Name: AthenaExperience: 739 Title: [Hunter] (Power bonus unavailable.)Race: HumanGender: FemaleStrength: 5Speed: 5Agility: 5Mental: 5 (¡ü0.1)Skills: Attachment, Hunter, BonelessMental strength has reached the current maximum value!Please break through the barrier!5 mental strength skill points extraction in progress!5 mental strength skills: Tranquility! (Active skill)Skill: Tranquility (Can quickly calm down at any moment, all efficiency is increased by 10% in non-combat states. Cooldown time is 24 hours, duration is 20 minutes.)All attribute points have reached the barrier!All skills can be upgraded!Upgrade Attachment to level 2 costs 10 experience points!Upgrade?


    Athena''s eyes lit up at the time; leveling up only costs 10 experience points. Now that her personal attribute points have all reached a barrier and cannot be upgraded, the surplus experience points can be used to upgrade skills, enhancing her own strength.


    Upgrade Attachment to level 5 costs 100 experience points!Upgrade?


    "Yes"


    Sure enough, the experience points increase with each level, not just 10 experience points for each level. Each skill has its own usefulness. Athena planned to use all of her experience points to upgrade skills.


    There were no major obstacles in upgrading the first three skills. Only when it came to upgrading Tranquility did the cost increase exponentially.


    Upgrade Tranquility to level 5 costs 400 experience points!Upgrade?


    "Yes"


    Unlike the other skills, the cost of Tranquility remained the same each time, requiring 100 experience points per level.


    This time, Athena spent a total of 700 experience points on upgrades.


    She had been worried about having too many experience points before, but it seems she''ll still have to worry about them in the future. After she breaks through the barrier, the experience points required for upgrades may not be as few as they are now.


    Skills: Attachment Lv5: Attaches strength to weapons, causing an additional 5 points of damage for every 1 point of attribute, low probability of triggering severe injury status, extremely low probability of triggering fatal status!Hunter Lv5: Legs gain augmentation effect, burst speed increased by 20%, cooldown time is 18 hours each time used.Boneless Lv5: Greatly enhances body flexibility, can perform some extremely difficult actions, can subtly adjust facial bone structure.Tranquility Lv5: Can quickly calm down at any moment, in combat state, resist various negative mental effects, in non-combat state, all efficiency is increased by 15%, cooldown time is 24 hours, duration is 2 hours.


    In addition to the Black Abyss Axe she previously obtained, as well as the enhanced Moonlight Bow and Arrows, two bottles of healing potions, and the 11 Fireburst Balls Athena made during this time, she was fully prepared for tomorrow''s battle.


    Of course, she still had 153 silver coins that she didn''t use yet. Now she needed to familiarize herself with her physical condition and the use of new skills. Open the system''s album interface and find the page for the Kingdom of Sol.


    Yes/No Spend 100 silver coins for scene simulation S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes"


    Still the familiar vast expanse of whiteness, after she designated the character, the scene changed to the appearance of Sun City. She stood alone in the densely packed snow beasts, holding the Black Abyss Axe emitting a cold light. However, this time she didn''t rush forward impulsively as she did last time, but initiated a slaughter right where she stood. At the beginning, the snowstorm beasts ignored her, but later these creatures would autonomously attack Athena. They were the best sparring partners for Athena.

 0057 – Regional War

    0057 ¨C Regional WarAfter a night of intense battle, Athena''s overall strength can now be considered truly enhanced. Last night before sleeping, she used the skill of tranquility and ate a mutated orange, so when she woke up this morning, she didn''t feel any fatigue at all.


    She organized her weapons, left a pile of food for Paopao and the others again, stood with Mikmik in the house, waiting for the appearance of the system''s teleportation array.


    Unlike the previous black teleportation array, this time it was a silver-black teleportation array. Although the teleportation location was in the Black Forest, the system obviously intended for them to enter through the teleportation array and then be randomly assigned a location.


    The day has come, please begin exploring the world!


    At the moment the system prompt sounded, the silver-black teleportation array slowly rotated and gradually activated. Athena stepped into it, only to be bounced out.


    No food allowed! And the system backpack capacity is limited to five!


    What does that mean? They''re not even allowed to bring food, looks like they''ll have to make do there themselves. Athena reluctantly took out all the food from the system backpack and placed various items in the courtyard: moonlight bows and arrows, explosive balls, flame enhancers, lighters, healing potions.


    The black abyss axe was held directly in her hand. On another note, the candle of brightness was also not allowed to be carried, so this would be their first time venturing out in the darkness. Even with so many experiences of teleportation, Athena still felt that she couldn''t adapt to the system''s teleportation array. Mikmik was even more dizzy, falling directly from Athena''s shoulder and into her hand, which she then threw into the shadow.


    Struggling to control her dizziness, she found that the people around her were even worse off than her; some were even vomiting right where they stood. They were trapped in a red barrier, and by the faint light of the barrier, they could barely glimpse the outside world. It was a desolate desert all around, empty and barren, with yellow sand everywhere and bones scattered.


    A total of 200 people, here in the red zone, stayed together in this not-so-large circle. Some tried to hit the barrier, but found they couldn''t get out. Even though they were friendly forces in the same region, Athena never loosened her grip on the axe in her hand. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Isn''t this supposed to be the Black Forest? Why does it look like a desert?


    "Damn, what kind of place is this? Why did they teleport us here!"


    "Forget about that for now, look, isn''t there a blue light over there?"


    All the people followed his gaze, indeed, a blue barrier lit up on the opposite side, indicating the people of region 003. Everyone around was discussing, not knowing what would happen. The system only hinted at regional battles, but didn''t tell them how the rankings were determined.


    Everyone was too preoccupied with themselves, wandering around the circle for a long time, unable to get out. In the end, everyone found a place to sit or simply leaned against the barrier.


    Athena found a place to lean against. As time passed, the barrier began to flicker.


    [ Regional Battle Prompt! ]


    [ Main Task: Survive in the Black Forest for three days! ]


    [ Side Task 1: The system will distribute various packages at various locations in the Black Forest for players to snatch. ]


    [ Side Task 2: The monsters lurking everywhere are hidden dangers; eliminate these potential threats! ]


    [ Side Task 3: Conditions unlocked! ]


    [ Regional battle rankings will be based on the completion of various tasks. Rankings are subject to change at any time. The positions of the top ten players will be marked on the updated map by the system, so please check it regularly! ]


    [ Defeating other players will allow you to gain progress of their completed tasks! ]


    [ Warning: In this regional battle, the location is in a dark zone, and all monsters will receive certain enhancements. Each player will wear a wartime medal. Once the wartime medal is lost, the player will be consumed by darkness! ]


    [ Regional battle begins! Players are not allowed to attack each other for three hours! ]


    At the moment the regional battle began, a medal appeared in Athena''s hand. The medal was silver, with nothing on it, more like an iron plate. At the same time, their system panel popped up with a map, marking various areas, with two prominent areas on it.


    One was the blue area where region 003''s players was located, and the other was the red area where they were currently situated. But now, both of these areas were losing their brilliance rapidly as the barrier disappeared, turning into ordinary areas at a fast pace.


    Between the two areas was a desert, surrounded by dense forests. Compared to the open desert, the forest was certainly better for concealment.


    In both areas, there were dense clusters of red dots representing each person, and after three hours, these red dots would all disappear, leaving only the top ten on the map.


    As soon as the barrier revealed an opening, Athena and most others quickly dashed towards the nearby forest, trying to find places with fewer people and avoiding being with the majority.


    Facing a multitude, most people had the mindset of not wanting to collide with the large forces on both sides from the beginning. A small fraction chose to ambush in place, not planning to move and intending to stay until the end.


    While running forward, Athena didn''t forget to look back. In their region 004, one person chose to stay behind. The reason she noticed him was that he had turned into a clump of sand, blending into the desert and disappearing.


    Even within their own 004 region, there was no absolute tranquility. There was a short and unsightly man surrounded by countless flies. As he ran, the flies dispersed in all directions. But they mostly targeted relatively slender males and females like Athena. Attached to each person, he himself ran in another direction, intending to hide.


    The person chased by the flies didn''t intend to sit and wait for death either. He abruptly changed direction and rushed towards the unsightly man, but there was a certain distance between them. Unless something unexpected happened, in general, he wouldn''t be able to catch up.


    Athena just glanced at the direction the fly-ridden man fled and didn''t bother with the flies buzzing around. With everyone successfully dispersing, as she successfully turned a corner, Mikmik emerged from her shadow.


    With an extremely cunning angle, Mikmik lightly leaped up and slapped towards the fly. However, Mikmik controlled the force well and didn''t kill the fly outright. The fly lay weakly on the ground, still moving slightly. Athena grabbed a leaf from nearby and wrapped it around the oversized fly.


    Observing her surroundings, she indeed found a good hiding spot. It was between two large rocks. She threw the fly into it. The place was good in every aspect except for its small space, making it difficult to move around. She placed some straw there and from a distance, it seemed as if someone was hiding there.


    Athena placed an explosive ball under the grass. The explosive ball she made was very unstable; even a slight disturbance could easily trigger it. Because it was of inferior quality, there was also a chance of failure. It all depended on that person''s luck. After doing all this, she dashed off in another direction.

 0058 – The Assault

    0058 ¨C The AssaultWith the protection of the wartime medal, the surrounding darkness did not engulf players like Athena, but the darkness greatly restricted their movements. However, this state would change as the barrier disappeared.


    Once the barrier completely dissipated three hours later, their only light source would also be lost. They would completely lose sight of their surroundings, and the grass placed among the rocks was just a precaution in case the opponent could see them.


    They needed illumination, but anything bright would inevitably expose their location and could lead to a coordinated attack.


    As she dashed forward rapidly, she saw a pair of green eyes. As the creature lunged towards her, Athena leaped to the side. The monster, missing its attack, didn''t linger for a fight, instead darting back into the darkness, concealing its form.


    Athena scanned her surroundings warily. The opponent circled cautiously behind her, intending to launch a second attack.


    "Meow~"


    But the meow from behind shattered the tranquility. The monster abruptly turned to look behind it, just as Athena charged forward. She raised her axe and swung it fiercely from above. The power of the Black Abyss Axe, combined with her skills, cleaved the monster directly in half.


    Only now did Athena clearly see the true face of the creature: a rabbit about half the height of a person, with sharp fangs. Unlike most of the monsters she had hunted before, this one''s body remained intact.


    Giant Rabbit


    Level: 3


    Strength: 4


    Defense: 8


    Skill: Jump


    Thinking of the giant rabbit meat she had traded for before, Athena realized that the meat had come from this creature. She attempted to use the system to decompose it.


    This function is temporarily unavailable!


    Athena hesitated as she looked at the giant rabbit. It was a source of food, but if she didn''t use the system to decompose it, the smell of blood would surely attract nearby monsters.


    A bold idea suddenly occurred to her. In the rankings competition, she definitely intended to participate. Currently, players couldn''t attack each other within three hours, but they could attack monsters.


    The giant rabbit, split in half, was bleeding profusely from the wound, and the smell of blood permeated the area. Athena swiftly climbed up a thick tree nearby and crouched among its branches. Before long, various insects began to crawl over.


    Athena easily dealt with these small creatures with a few casual swats from below the tree. Then, a green snake with red markings slithered over. Mikmik bit the snake''s neck, killing it on the spot, and then sensibly placed the snake next to the giant rabbit.


    Perched in the tree, Athena tightly gripped her Moonlight Bow, aiming down below. Crack, buzz... Leaves that had been lying for a long time on the ground became somewhat brittle. When something walked on them, they would crunch underfoot. Athena knew something was approaching.


    But it wasn''t a monster; it was a woman with wavy hair tied back with a grass rope, seemingly aware that someone was ambushing here, yet she still approached openly, intending to pick up the giant rabbit meat on the ground, knowing that players couldn''t harm each other at the moment.


    Athena''s expression turned cold. She raised her hand and shot an arrow beside the woman, the arrow spinning rapidly with a cold aura, landing at the woman''s feet. The woman''s steps faltered, seeming hesitant, before she finally raised her hands behind her head and silently retreated.


    Athena didn''t reveal herself. As the woman retreated, she silently descended from the tree and moved to another tree nearby. Sure enough, a cloud of smoke billowed from where Athena had just been. She skirted around the smoky area and began running around the surrounding tree trunks.


    Mikmik watched the woman who hid behind the tree trunk and smiled as it stared at the smoke. Mikmik raised its paw and licked it delicately. When the woman pulled out her weapon and prepared to leave, it lightly called out.


    "Meow~"


    Upon hearing the cat''s meow behind her, the woman was first startled. Then, she swung a sweeping kick, but found nothing. She cautiously surveyed her surroundings, realizing the danger at the same time. As she attempted to flee, an arrow shot from above her diagonally. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even though she knew the other couldn''t harm her, the woman instinctively dodged aside, falling to the ground. Awkwardly getting up, she scrambled around, cursing involuntarily.


    "You''re crazy! Daring to attack! Aren''t you afraid of the system''s punishment?!"


    "Truly insane, lunatic!"


    But Athena paid no heed. Ignoring the woman''s plea, she lifted her bow and shot another arrow steadily. The woman had originally intended to stay put, planning to let Athena shoot the arrow and face the consequences. But her instincts told her that would be fatal.


    As she narrowly dodged the arrow with lingering fear, she found herself sweating profusely and collapsed to the ground.


    Seeing a faint glint in the distance, aimed in her direction, the woman was truly frightened now.


    "W-wait, please, don''t kill me! I know I was wrong!"


    "I admit it! I surrender!"


    Despite the woman''s pleas, Athena felt no sympathy in this time for survival. However, she wasn''t genuinely planning to harm her either; after all, the time hadn''t come yet. The previous arrows, though shot, had deliberately missed their mark.


    Athena wasn''t worried about the woman escaping either. Mikmik had been circling around her the whole time, unnoticed by the woman.


    Staying in the tree, Athena heard noises coming from the direction of the giant rabbit meat. Then came the sound of chewing. She coldly stared at the woman ahead, then turned and headed towards the giant rabbit.


    The woman now realized she couldn''t defeat Athena and wasn''t as reckless. The smoke she released earlier was just meant to disorient Athena; she didn''t dare to act during these three hours. If she were to act, it would be her death after the time runs out.


    Seeing Athena heading back, she planned to slip away quietly. Mikmik remained nearby, observing her leisurely, like a hunter in the dark, teasing its prey.


    Unfortunately, as the woman took only a few steps after getting up, she became suspicious, glancing around uncertainly. She hadn''t forgotten that she was discovered earlier because of a cat''s meow.


    Moreover, now that she recalled, the opponent''s strength could have easily killed her directly. Since there was room for negotiation, she was confident she could make the other party covet her belongings and spare her life.


    Considering the lunatic''s demeanor just now, if she were to flee again, she might be caught next time, and then she would truly be doomed.


    Swallowing nervously, she finally gave up and leaned against the tree trunk, resignedly waiting for Athena.

 0059 – Pay For Life

    0059 ¨C Pay For LifeRaising its head, it bared its sharp teeth in the direction of Athena, growling lowly to assert its dominance. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    While Athena was running desperately, she shot an arrow towards the monster. The arrow pierced deeply into its flesh, causing the monster to wail in pain. It then turned and chose to flee into the distance.


    But Athena wouldn''t give it the chance. Arrows flew one after another, each faster than the last. The damage inflicted by the arrows, combined with the power of the moonlight imbued within them, gradually seeped into the monster''s limbs and body, chilling it to the bone, freezing even its soul.


    The monster was gradually engulfed in the chilling cold, its limbs weakened, unable to take another step, and it collapsed heavily to the ground. Athena approached and slashed its neck.


    [ Black Panther Beast ]


    Level: 4


    Strength: 10


    Defense: 8


    Skills: Claw, Silent


    Another monster met its demise, and only an hour had passed since the beginning. Blood pooled around, its metallic scent thickening in the air. It was no longer safe to stay here, as it might attract uncontrollable entities.


    The corpses of monsters within the area battlefield wouldn''t disappear, yet one couldn''t obtain loot or experience points from killing them.


    Returning to where Mikmik was, the woman who had been there before remained seated, not daring to flee.


    The woman spoke first, "Let''s talk. I didn''t really mean to harm you just now, after all, I''m not that foolish. It was just a smoke that induces unconsciousness."


    Seeing Athena''s advancing steps without pause, and the glinting black axe, the woman decided to get straight to the point.


    "I have money, a lot of money. I can buy my freedom with silver coins!"


    Athena ignored the woman''s words, continuing forward. When the woman was about to make a desperate attempt, seeking a chance for survival, Athena just retrieved her arrow.


    No waste allowed, especially since her supply was limited.


    "How many silver coins?" Athena inquired.


    The woman looked at Athena with a complex expression, hesitating before speaking, "50?"


    Fifty silver coins was not a small amount. After all, she couldn''t harm the woman now, and even if she did, there would be no benefit. It was better to let her go for now and exchange for 50 silver coins, a stable outcome.


    Seeing Athena lost in thought, the woman thought she wasn''t satisfied, so she gestured with her fingers, indicating "1", and loudly said, "100 silver coins, that''s my limit!"


    Though somewhat regretful, Athena abandoned the idea of bargaining further.


    "Alright."


    [ Theater of the Stage has sent you a friend request, Accept/Decline ]


    [ Accept ]


    [ Theater of the Stage has sent you a trade request, Accept/Decline ]


    [ Accept ]


    [ Congratulations! You have received 100 silver coins! ]


    In truth, Theater of the Stage was afraid of Athena taking the money and not fulfilling the promise. But now, her life and freedom were in Athena''s hands. She had no other choice.


    If Athena was indifferent to Theater of the Stage before, now she found herself somewhat liking her, albeit only for her money.


    "You may leave."


    She wasn''t someone who would break promises. In the future, as more regions intersected, her reputation might spread as fearsome, but it must never be that of untrustworthiness.


    Theater of the Stage hesitated as she stood up, taking a step towards the exit, then turned back to ask Athena, "Miss, can you take back the thing you used to track me earlier?"


    She had searched almost everywhere, even checking herself repeatedly. Yet no matter where she went, she would still hear a cat''s meow behind her, signaling a warning.


    "It''s not following you anymore. Rest assured."


    "It? Is it really a cat?"


    Athena couldn''t be bothered with her and turned away, not wanting to linger in this place for long. As Theater of the Stage watched Athena''s retreating figure, she still felt uneasy. After walking a distance, fearing that Athena might have a change of heart and come back for her, she confirmed that Athena indeed had no intention of bothering her and began to run frantically.


    Meanwhile, at the location of the giant rabbit, more and more monsters were attracted by the scent of blood, leading to a fierce battle as Athena had anticipated.


    Athena walked and pondered continuously. She somewhat regretted not questioning Theater of the Stage clearly earlier. If Theater of the Stage was willing to offer 100 silver coins, it proved that she had more than just that amount.


    Where did the other party get so much money from? Or was their entire region relatively wealthy? Well, it didn''t matter; she might catch her next time.


    If Theater of the Stage knew what Athena was thinking, she would probably be furious.


    Athena opened the map and saw that the densely packed red dots were dispersing, with some even inexplicably disappearing.


    The direction where the red dots disappeared was ahead of her, causing her to abruptly stop her steps.


    Athena looked solemnly at the gloomy forest ahead and decisively chose to bypass it, running towards the direction where there was a river.


    Initially, she ran in that direction to find a water source. There were plenty of monsters here, so she could easily kill one for food. However, without water, survival would be difficult.


    In the forest she passed through, there was a tree thinner and more frail than the others, looking diseased as if it could be snapped by the wind at any moment.


    A monster accidentally wandered into it, and suddenly the ground cracked open, thick roots emerging to bind it layer by layer. The monster was trapped in a cage made of roots, crushed, and absorbed until nothing was left of its blood and limbs. The frail tree swayed slightly, growing a new patch of green leaves.


    After running for a while, occasionally stopping to rest and killing one or two monsters along the way, she even caught a normal white rabbit. Athena finally arrived at the riverside, where the turbulent river water flowed clearly.


    Feeling thirsty, Athena wanted to drink immediately but hesitated. She dropped the white rabbit on the ground, while Mikmik threatened from the side with bared teeth and claws.


    The white rabbit timidly approached the riverbank and drank the water. After tasting its sweetness, it became bolder.


    After resting for a while, Athena saw that the rabbit was fine and decided to go and scoop some water for herself.


    Suddenly, a fish leaped out of the river, aiming to devour the rabbit. But Athena was faster. With a swing of her axe, she struck the monstrous fish as it jumped out of the water, chopping it directly onto the ground.


    The fish was nearly a meter long, transparent from skin to bone, invisible underwater.


    If it hadn''t jumped out, Athena wouldn''t have noticed it.


    The white rabbit was scared stiff and fainted on the spot.


    Athena squatted down and scooped up some water with her hands, drinking it. The cool and sweet river water made her feel alive again. Mikmik also drank some water beside her.

 0060 – Tree Roots

    0060 ¨C Tree RootsThree hours passed quietly, and the restrictions between players completely disappeared. The red and blue barriers in the distance had vanished entirely, leaving the surroundings in darkness with no trace of light.


    The sky was devoid of stars and the moon, immersing everyone in endless darkness, evoking a sense of fear. Moving forward now required light, and in this absolute darkness, any appearance of light would attract everything nearby like a beacon for attacks.


    Athena stayed in a large tree by the river, hidden among dense leaves, with Mikmik nestled in her arms. They took a short break there. The extra red dots on the map had disappeared, leaving only ten purple dots representing the top 10 players.


    The war medal Athena carried also changed, showing the number seventeen, indicating her current rank in the regional battle.


    Player has triggered Side Quest 3, activation conditions now announced!


    Side Quest 3: Steal other players'' war medals to gain access to their backpack resources! Additionally, each war medal adds a 1% bonus to regional battle points! (Stackable!)


    Supply packages will refresh in half an hour! Please check the map!


    3 km northeast of your position, supply packages will refresh! Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Players had started fighting among themselves, which was exactly what the system intended¡ªto have the strong eliminate the weak. Otherwise, there wouldn¡¯t be such rules.


    Athena double-checked the purple message and confirmed she hadn¡¯t misread it. The Mikmik in her arms, suddenly squeezed tighter, yelped in pain. She comforted it, stroking its head and messing up its carefully groomed fur, causing it to jump out in frustration.


    Originally, Athena planned to adapt to the surroundings, staying by the river for food and occasionally snatching a package or two, maintaining a rank below 10, and targeting the top players later. She wanted to avoid being attacked early on but was pleasantly surprised by this sudden opportunity.


    She grabbed the still-pouting Mikmik and instructed it to lead the way. Even in total darkness, Mikmik could see clearly and navigate effortlessly due to its natural concealment abilities, making it invaluable in these conditions.


    Athena, on the other hand, could only perceive her surroundings within three meters, barely enough for combat, despite her attributes nearing a breakthrough. Therefore, she needed Mikmik to guide her.


    With Mikmik leading, Athena moved faster and soon reached the location marked by the purple text. As she observed the surroundings, she realized this was where several red dots had mysteriously disappeared before, a place she had intentionally avoided.


    Unexpectedly, she ended up here anyway. The system¡¯s first supply package refresh point was in this area, causing her a headache. Mikmik, sensing danger, circled her feet, warning her of the potential risks ahead.


    Initially thinking she could get ahead of others and take the package right away, Athena now faced difficulties. Even Mikmik, usually calm and proud in battles against various monsters, seemed fearful and uneasy.


    After some consideration, she decided not to be the first to act. It was wiser to wait for more players to arrive and divide the attention of whatever was lurking inside. Reminding herself not to be blinded by greed, she retreated a bit.


    Half an hour later, a light beam appeared at the refresh point, illuminating the darkness and attracting distant players. However, there were three such beams! The other two were much farther away, visible only as faint glimmers.


    Supply packages have refreshed! Light beams will disappear in half an hour!


    Special notice: this supply package contains: 1 Dark Vision Goggles, 10 War Medals, 1 Shelter Upgrade Blueprint (applicable to any level), and 5 Deluxe Food Packs!


    Athena¡¯s mouth twitched. This commotion made the map redundant. And the special notice¡ªwas the system afraid players wouldn¡¯t compete for the package without knowing its valuable contents?


    Ignoring the other items, a single pair of Dark Vision Goggles, just by the name, suggested its crucial role in this dark place. It was the perfect tool for ambushes and looting.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    "Whoosh¡ªwhoosh¡ª"


    Shortly after the system''s notification, the nearest group of people had already sprinted at full speed to the location. Inevitably, they encountered each other, creating an instant and extremely awkward situation.


    However, the war medals each group carried emitted two different glows: blue and red. This was a system feature to distinguish people from different regions.


    Almost instantly, the players reached a consensus. Those from the same region stood together, and the two sides faced off. Their standoff didn''t last long, though, as the next group was about to arrive, prompting them to start fighting.


    Various dazzling weapons appeared, more than Athena had ever seen in the big uncle''s shop. Almost everyone had their own unique skill.


    Several of the stronger players had already charged into the forest. Seeing this, Athena didn''t hesitate and followed suit. As she ran, someone noticed her and tried to block her path.


    The person wielded a long spear and thrust it at her fiercely. However, Athena, gathering her strength and activating a skill, broke the spear in half. Both the spear wielder and his previous opponent were stunned.


    In the moment of their shock, Athena delivered a flying kick, sending the spear wielder flying. Mikmik seized the opportunity to snatch the war medal from his chest.


    The darkness, previously pushed back by the light, suddenly surged forward like a living thread, enveloping and dragging the man away before he could even scream.


    Seeing this, no one dared to obstruct Athena''s path.


    When Athena reached the inside, she found three people standing still. The fourth person was trapped between the tree roots. The ground cracked inch by inch, and the roots, like clawed hands, thrashed about on the surface, attacking the three.


    The three fought while retreating but noticed Athena approaching.


    Although Athena had anticipated a grim situation, she hadn''t expected it to be this dire.


    These roots lurked beneath the entire forest, ready to break through the ground at any moment. The thickest roots were as wide as barrels, and the thinnest were as thick as Athena''s arm.

 0061 – Cheat

    0061 ¨C CheatIn this eerie forest, Athena and the other players faced a challenge. The supply package was right in front of them, but the demonized tree monster was massive and twisted, threatening everything around it.


    Athena gripped the black axe in her hand tightly, her eyes firm and resolute. Reckless and impulsive, she joined the battle. The tree roots attacked, and the fight began instantly. Athena was the first to charge forward, swinging her black axe, which glowed with a strange light. Each swing created a huge gash in the thick roots, and the smaller ones were severed and fell to the ground.


    The other players were not to be outdone. They unleashed their skills¡ªsome released powerful magic attacks, others fought with their fists, each blow precise. However, none of them used their full strength. Their goal wasn''t to destroy the tree monster but to get the supply package in the middle. They just needed someone to distract the tree monster. As soon as there was an opening, they would rush in and grab the package. Who would get it depended on their abilities.


    Unlike Athena, who was fighting with all her might, most of them fought while retreating, waiting for an opportunity. Among the three other players, two clearly knew each other. During the battle, they protected each other, an unconscious habit that was hard to hide despite their efforts.


    In the intense fight, everyone''s breathing became rapid. They kept attacking the tree monster, not giving it any chance to rest, while they also had no time to catch their breath.


    "Hey, those two over there, do you know each other?" One of the players, a young man in full armor, spoke up first. It was unclear where he got his armor from, but he fought the tree monster with his fists, the force of his blows powerful enough to repel and shatter the roots.


    The other man and woman ignored him, glancing at Athena instead. Based on the colors shown by their battle medals, the person who had been killed earlier and the armored man were from Region 003, while three of the four remaining players were from Region 004.


    "Don''t ignore me. Although we''re competitors, we''re still fighting together now, right? I''m [ True Heart ] from Region 003. What about you? Are you not even going to say your names?"


    After the fierce battle, Athena and the other two panted with fatigue. "Region 4, Athena," Athena said.


    The other two also revealed their names. "Region 4, [ Witch''s Cloak ]," said one.


    "Region 4, [ Magic King ]," said the other.


    "Hahaha, what pretentious names you have!" [ True Heart ] laughed without hesitation, but the other two looked displeased.


    As Athena''s attacks grew fiercer, she almost broke into the central area but was pushed back. The other three sighed in relief but used her aggressive assault to quietly advance.


    The tree monster, repeatedly losing roots, grew enraged and frenzied. More roots gathered toward Athena, reducing the pressure on the other three and creating an opening.


    Seeing the gap, the three quickened their pace to slip inside. The tree monster, sensing something amiss, sent some roots after them too. But at that moment, the light beam from the supply package suddenly disappeared.


    The three were shocked, while Athena sighed in relief.


    Feigning recklessness, Athena suddenly dashed in the opposite direction with her black axe, escaping the dangerous area. Leaving the other three to deal with the tree monster''s wrath, they were caught off guard and couldn''t understand how the supply package had vanished under their noses.


    Athena didn''t care about this. As soon as Mikmik grabbed the supply package, the light beam disappeared, and darkness enveloped the area again. Now was the best time to escape. If the three behind her reacted and surrounded her, it would be troublesome since they were both powerful and from the same region as well.


    Mikmik led the way ahead, and the package he originally held was now in Athena''s hands. They ran swiftly, as if chased by a fierce tiger.


    The three at the tree monster''s location grew increasingly suspicious. The disappearance of the supply package was definitely related to Athena, who had been the main force attacking the tree monster. Suddenly, she withdrew, and the package disappeared¡ªwhat a coincidence?


    It turned out they weren''t the ones using the tree monster as a tool; they were the tools themselves.


    [ Witch''s Cloak ] gave [ Magic King ] a look, and they planned to abandon [ True Heart ] and escape.


    Beside them, [ True Heart ], now bearing the brunt of the increased pressure from the tree monster due to Athena''s withdrawal, was fuming.


    "Hey, you two, I''m not an idiot. I''m not falling for the same trick twice. Either we all go together, or none of us are leaving!" [ True Heart ] said with a smile that didn''t reach his eyes.


    "And you saw that person''s strength earlier, didn''t you? Isn''t it better if the three of us surround her?" S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The [ Magic King ] and [ Witch''s Cloak ] eventually agreed. A blue barrier appeared around the [ Magic King ], and when he pushed it forward, the entire tree monster was shoved back.


    [ Witch''s Cloak ] took out several bottles and threw them at the tree monster. The bottles shattered, releasing a ghostly blue flame that burned fiercely, scorching the roots of the tree monster.


    Since they were cooperating, they had to show enough sincerity! Without hesitation, [ True Heart ] retrieved his weapon from his system backpack: a shield that gleamed with a cold light.


    The shield was made of a mysterious metal, its edges sharp as blades, and the surface was intricately engraved with complex patterns that seemed to tell an ancient story. When [ True Heart ] held the shield, a powerful aura emanated from him. Although it was a piece of defensive equipment, he wielded it as a weapon, slicing through the encroaching roots with it.


    The tree monster was soon forced to retreat. It chose not to attack the three humans anymore, keeping a watchful stance. Seeing this, the three of them left without hesitation, showing no desire to continue the fight.


    [ Witch''s Cloak ] closed her eyes, and faint fireflies shimmered around her, merging into the ground. "I see, I hear, I track..." she murmured softly.


    The fireflies spread in ripples underground.


    After determining a direction, Athena and Mikmik ran without stopping. But as she took another step, Athena sensed something was wrong¡ªit was the feeling of being watched. She warily scanned her surroundings but found nothing. Mikmik meowed questioningly beside her.


    Athena didn''t think it was her imagination, feeling a bit uneasy.


    Unseen to her, every step she took left a faint glow, creating a trail that only [ Witch''s Cloak ] could see.

 0062 – Is There A Way

    0062 ¨C Is There A WayAthena ran, her heart already clear that the three of them must have used tracking methods unknown to her just now.


    She knew they wouldn''t let her off easily, especially since she had taken the supply box right from under their noses, which was no different from teasing them.


    She moved through the dense forest, holding the supply box in her hand, but dared not open it recklessly. She didn''t know if another beam of light would appear when she opened the supply box.


    They used an unknown method to track her, and Athena could feel their approach. No matter how she hid, she couldn''t shake off their pursuit.


    While running, she suddenly spotted a hidden cave and didn''t hesitate to dive in.


    Inside, she opened the package.


    Congratulations on obtaining Night Vision Goggles x1, War Time Medal x10, Shelter Upgrade Blueprint x1 (applicable to any level), and Deluxe Food x5!


    Simultaneously with the system prompt, another beam of light shot out from the package.


    In fact, even with the cave''s concealment, its light was unstoppable. The Night Vision Goggles were a pair of classic monocular glasses. When worn, Athena''s vision instantly brightened, just like in daylight, no longer limited by darkness.


    The ten war time medals had automatically merged with her medals, and her ranking on the medal quickly rose to 11th.


    Phew, thankfully, just a hair away from the top ten.


    The Deluxe Food consisted of five sheets of parchment paper, containing delicacies like seafood feasts, and stewed chicken. Athena rolled them all up and tucked them into her belt.


    She was very cautious during battles and didn''t feel marked by anything, and the system and purple fonts didn''t make any judgments.


    There was only one possibility: she wasn''t marked; the package in her hand was.


    Athena threw the package, which had lost its brilliance, on the ground and retreated. Indeed, the feeling of being tracked disappeared after she moved away.


    Meanwhile, on the other side, the three advancing individuals also saw the appearing beam of light, and quickly noticed its disappearance, understanding something had happened.


    Witch''s Cloak stopped the Magic King who was preparing to accelerate, shaking her head at him. Her tracking method had been discovered; now, they didn''t know where the other party escape to, so there was no point in pursuing again.


    True Heart also quietly retreated to the side, turned around, and ran away. With the loss of a common goal, this temporary alliance instantly fell apart.


    For Athena, the current dark forest, aside from being a bit more dangerous, had become as easy as walking on flat ground. Just as she was about to find a relatively safe place to take a rest and have a good meal with Mikmik, her friend''s reminder sounded.


    Finding a relatively safe place to temporarily rest, she opened the system panel and found her friend interface.


    Inside were a series of messages bombarding her, but she had been busy just now and hadn''t had time to attend to them.


    -- Boss Big Dream, I''m in a dire situation!


    -- I''m surrounded by three people from Region 003! Boss, please help!


    -- They''re all a bunch of rookies! Something you can handle with a flick of your hand!


    -- But I dare not move!


    Potato sent you a location share!


    The opponent''s timidity seemed natural in their speech.


    After Athena clicked, indeed, a white moving marker appeared on her map, indicating Potato''s real-time location.


    She was familiar with that location; apart from their beam of light, there were two other beams in different places. Unfortunately, Athena couldn''t rush over there.


    However, amidst the struggle for those beams on this side, she didn''t see her familiar figure. She found the chat box for [ Ask-The-Heavens ].


    Trade request from Big Dream, Accept/Decline?


    [ Ask-The-Heavens ] pushed up the glasses on his nose, showing a hint of confusion in his eyes, and clicked on accept. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Congratulations on receiving 20 silver!


    [ Big Dream ] sent you Potato''s location sharing.


    -- That guy has a few people from Region 003 nearby. Give him a hand.


    [ Ask-The-Heavens ] knew Potato because he had purchased several scrolls from him before. Seeing the location was near his own, it was an easy favor to do.


    Moreover, hadn''t the rules of the regional battle been stated?


    "If the number of surviving players in our region exceeds that of the opposing region by 10 people, the region subsidy reward increases by 1%, and an independent region increases by 5%!"


    He had no way to refuse. He didn''t know where he pulled out a handkerchief from, wiping the blood off his face and glasses, then headed in the direction of Potato.


    Taking advantage of a break, he opened the regional chat channel.


    -- Can any of the big shots in the regional battle broadcast it live? I''m really curious!


    -- Are you daydreaming? How could there be someone chatting in the regional battle?


    -- If I were to go, I''d probably turn into Voldemort on the ground, motionless until the end.


    -- I''m sitting at home, and I can imagine how intense the battle there must be.


    -- We should organize more of these activities in the future. It''s rare to have such leisure, with no monsters around. I feel like planting some flowers and grass in the yard to rejuvenate.


    -- We''re pretty leisurely now, but when they come back, our strength will be left behind by others by a lot.


    The system, in a rare act of conscience, had put all regions on rest mode during the three days of Regional battle.


    Without system teleportation arrays and monsters being sent over, coupled with the previous barriers being pushed outward, they had more space to explore.


    Athena had already arrived at another riverside with Mikmik, fishing out the fish monster hidden inside. After dealing with the opponent, she directly used a deluxe food blueprint next to the fish monster.


    She gnawed on a big chicken leg while surveying the surroundings. It was completely different from her previous sight. Now, Athena truly saw the Black Forest.


    The trees in the Black Forest were different from normal trees; their leaves were pure black, and each tree''s growth was very peculiar. Their branches crazily grew outward but not towards the sky, exuding a sense of twisted madness everywhere.


    The top ten on the system panel''s map hadn''t changed until now; they were still those few dots of light. The current top ten could be described as a hot potato; everyone was carefully avoiding entering the top ten.


    They might not necessarily be the ultimate winners, but they were definitely good tools for now. The crazy ones didn''t mind using them as practice to increase their chances of winning and ranking, while the cautious ones planned to stay in the later stages and then go harvest these lambs.


    However, those qualified to harvest must first have strength that matches them; otherwise, the roles of prey and hunter could easily be reversed.


    Athena now had a concern: once she did anything, her score would increase, and she might accidentally enter the top ten. But if she did nothing, it would go against her original intention of coming here.


    Is there any way for her to hunt monsters, snatch others'' medals, and maintain her ranking without moving?

 0063 – Big World and the Blacks

    0063 ¨C Big World and the BlacksAthena leaned against a tree, her hands constantly flipping through the system panel. Suddenly, one of the purple dots on the map began to flicker, then promptly disappeared. She enlarged the map, and another dot started flashing, moving rapidly in one direction. Her pupils constricted abruptly as she realized the dot was heading straight towards her.


    There was never a moment of peace... [Ranked 8th: Big World ]


    Retreat? Or fight?


    It was obvious that [ Big World ] was being pursued by someone, but the number of pursuers and their strength were unknown. Although there were many trees around her, none were sufficient to conceal her as before.


    Thinking back to the [ Witch''s Cloak ] and the [ Magic King ] from before, both of them belonged to region 004 just like her. She had the ability to view the comprehensive rankings of everyone in her region, yet neither of them appeared within the top 20. They weren''t even in the top 50. [ True Heart ] from region 003, at least, was ranked 8th before the war.


    Given their strength, it was impossible for them to rank so low. The only possibility was that their strength had suddenly increased during the preparations for the regional battle in recent days.


    The system''s tasks boiled down to survival, hunting monsters, defeating players, and seizing wartime medals, all of which could earn scores and score bonuses.


    "System, what''s the criteria for defeating someone?"


    When the opponent player loses combat capability, it is considered a defeat!


    Losing combat capability was a loophole. If you left the opponent half-dead but still able to fight, handed them a sword, wouldn''t they still have some combat capability?


    Athena held the medal she had snatched earlier from Mikmik. Mikmik liked it and had kept it as a trophy on its chest. But the moment Athena held it, the wartime medal merged with her.


    As long as she didn''t touch it personally, the medal couldn''t add to her score. Athena squinted, scheming in her mind.


    She thought of a way to increase her score without affecting her ranking: let Mikmik keep the medals every time she obtained one, or store them in a secure place. When the time was right, she would merge the medals together. This way, her ranking wouldn''t change, and over time, it might even drop naturally.


    When the last day arrived, not only could she catch up with everyone''s progress, but she could also compete for a spot in the top ten, participating in this chaotic battle.


    Watching the purple dot gradually approaching her, Athena had no intention of escaping. On the contrary, she, with Mikmik, searched for a nearby hiding spot.


    She couldn''t run away every time she encountered someone. Her temporary evasion was just a tactic, not an indication of her lack of combat strength.


    After a thorough search, she found a relatively secluded corner. There were several huge rocks here that could temporarily conceal her figure. So she didn''t hesitate to slip into this small space, quietly waiting for others to arrive.


    The dot moved quickly, and it didn''t take long to reach Athena''s location. She slowed her breathing, watching the activity outside. Soon, she saw a figure speeding past, followed closely by a giant snake.


    It seems that the girl is indeed "[ Big World ]". As for the python, it was as thick as a calf''s leg, but Athena frowned, feeling more and more familiar as she looked at it.


    It wasn''t until the monster viewing prompt popped up beside her that Athena realized this was the black phosphorus snake she had defeated before and sold off.


    "[ Big World ]" seemed to notice something unusual here and looked in Athena''s direction. Athena''s heart skipped a beat. Had she been discovered? It seemed this girl had keen eyesight to notice her immediately without any movement.


    None of these players could be underestimated.


    However, "[ Big World ]" didn''t linger. She continued to run forward, engaging in a fierce chase with the black phosphorus snake.


    Unfortunately, her vision was limited, and she had to be cautious of her surroundings while running. The black phosphorus snake, on the other hand, moved through the darkness as if it owned it, its speed far surpassing hers.


    Athena stayed put, not caring if "[ Big World ]" had spotted her, as she had prepared herself to be found when she chose to stay there.


    She didn''t care if she was discovered or not. She was waiting. If she remembered correctly, she had sold the black phosphorus snake to a man named [ Black Planet ].


    "[ Big World ]" was from region 003, while [ Black Planet ] was from their region 004.


    As expected, soon after, a man in casual clothes dashed out. Athena watched as the two, along with the snake, passed by her, but she had no intention of following them. She wouldn''t help either of them, even though one of them had been her customer.


    It didn''t matter who won for her. The only thing she was curious about was the rapid growth of the black phosphorus snake.


    But this curiosity didn''t prompt her to take action.


    She determined the direction, estimating that the time was almost right, and decided to go to where she had buried the Explosive Balls earlier.


    But while she thought this, others had different plans. After circling around the black phosphorus snake, "[ Big World ]" came back around, heading straight for Athena''s hiding place. Athena and Mikmik moved, but Mikmik snarled back in the direction they had come from.


    Athena guessed that "[ Big World ]" might be running out of options and wanted to use her as a scapegoat. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She took out her Moonlight Bow and aimed in that direction.


    "[ Big World ]" ran wildly, but she also kept searching for Athena''s figure around her.


    Unfortunately, the endless darkness severely affected her vision, making her search extremely difficult. She regretted not running directly towards Athena just now.


    At that moment, an inexplicable chill surged through her, causing her body to tremble involuntarily. The danger didn''t come from behind, from the relentless pursuit of [ Black Planet ] and the black phosphorus snake, but from an unknown source ahead.


    She suddenly stopped and sidestepped, warily scanning the front, trying to identify the source of the threat.


    The air seemed to become heavy, suffocating. She didn''t have to wait long. Almost as soon as she stopped, she felt a subtle change in the atmosphere around her, and a silver-white arrow shot towards her.


    Even though she moved to the side at the first opportunity, she couldn''t dodge in time, only managing to avoid vital points, but the arrow still pierced deeply into her shoulder.


    She rolled on the ground, hiding behind a tree, but the tree couldn''t conceal her figure. What made her despair even more was that the black phosphorus snake caught up from behind.

 0064 – Bounced Back!

    0064 ¨C Bounced Back!"Big World" took a deep breath, steadied herself, and decided to continue forward. But soon, that sense of being locked on to overwhelmed her once again.


    In this moment, she burst out with an unprecedented speed, her body shooting forward like an arrow released from a bow. At the same time, she felt a stabbing pain emanating from the wound on her shoulder, but she gritted her teeth, enduring the agony, and rolled to the side next to a rock.


    The rock happened to cover her figure, but she didn''t feel relaxed in the slightest.


    Another silver arrow firmly pierced the ground where she had just been, deeply embedding itself underground.


    Just when she had decided to face whatever lay ahead, now she wanted to escape!


    What made her feel unwilling was that she had finally hooked one, and their strength was considerable. She even had [ Two Fool ] within her control.


    She had almost succeeded. She was so close to making a breakthrough in the rankings!


    Not far ahead was the trap she had set up, but while running, she noticed a player. Thinking that if she could take down two at once, she could save even more, she greedily turned back.


    Wasn''t that player always hiding? How could his strength be so strong! "Big World" felt bitter in her heart, more than anything, she felt unwilling, unwilling to be ended here.


    Athena didn''t care about her petty thoughts, only amazed at this person''s speed. Presumably, they had hidden their true strength before, planning to lure others in.


    They probably wouldn''t be so easy to deal with; one or two arrows wouldn''t kill them.


    She breathed out, her gaze sharply focused on the opposite rock. Activating her skill ''Attachment'', she fired the Arrow of Spacebreaking, directly shattering the rock on the opposite side. Unfortunately, there was no one behind the rock.


    Having just used a short-range teleportation, "Big World" felt exhausted, looking at the shattered rock in the distance, shocked by the opponent''s strength, and also feeling a surge of fear.


    Equally shocked by this arrow were [ Black Planet ] and the black phosphorus snake, who had come rushing over.


    With its excellent vision, the black phosphorus snake immediately spotted Athena in the distance. Then, looking at the shattered rock beside it, unpleasant memories surfaced again. It shrank back and hid behind [ Black Planet ].


    There were faint bloodstains on [ Black Planet ]''s white T-shirt. He knew there was danger ahead, but he couldn''t see clearly what it was.


    Just as he hesitated whether to give up chasing "Big World", he saw the person next to him, who had just run ahead of them, "Big World".


    At first, he was surprised, but before he had time to think about why the other person suddenly appeared here, he reacted. The black phosphorus snake took the initiative to attack, and he also took out his broadsword to prepare for battle.


    Who would have known that "Big World", relying on her excellent speed, had been evading them and not engaging in battle. At the same time, she raised her hands in a gesture of surrender, continuously pleading for mercy.


    "Let''s stop fighting for now. Did you notice the person ahead? If we don''t take her down first, both of us might end up dead here. Let''s put aside our grievances for now. We can''t let others take advantage of us, can we?"


    "In a moment, we both rush up together. Whoever manages to escape, even if it''s just luck, what do you say?"


    "Hurry up, the time for hiding is about to expire!"


    "Big World" seemed very anxious, but luckily, she succeeded in the end.


    Skill "Teammate" activated, judgment successful!Teammate: After using it on the target unit, turn enemies into allies, and together negotiate battle plans to deal with third parties. Allies cannot be attacked after using this skill. Duration: 1 minute. Cooldown: 48 hours!


    Teammate is a very precious skill. "Big World" wouldn''t want to use this skill under normal circumstances. But she had no choice now. She only hoped to use this fool to distract the enemy and gain a chance for herself.


    She even took out the Concealment Scroll she had kept in reserve.


    Athena looked at the person who had suddenly disappeared behind the rock, feeling that things had become a bit tricky. Not only had "Big World" disappeared, but even the black phosphorus snake and [ Black Planet ] had disappeared at the same time.


    Changing her Moonlight Bow and Arrow into the Black Abyss Axe, she prepared for close combat. Mikmik had already circled ahead, observing everywhere, searching for the enemy''s trace.


    "Big World" said to [ Black Planet ], "You go distract the enemy, and I''ll take the opportunity to move!"


    [ Black Planet ] felt a strange sensation spreading in his mind, as if he and the other party were old comrades in arms who had fought side by side for many years. Without thinking, he nodded in agreement, feeling that the other party wouldn''t harm him.


    The black phosphorus snake on the ground was very puzzled. Just now, its owner was planning to kill this woman. How did they suddenly become partners in the blink of an eye? With its tiny brain, it couldn''t understand.


    In fact, due to the contract, it couldn''t even resist [ Black Planet ]''s orders.


    It spat out its tongue in dissatisfaction. Actually, its fear of Athena still lingered in its body. But it preferred to believe in its master. Perhaps the master could avenge it!


    The hidden light curtain that had appeared on the open ground suddenly disappeared. Athena and Mikmik immediately noticed the appearance of the two people and the snake. Without much ado, they charged straight at them.


    "Big World" didn''t have time to consider much. She used her rare speed to flee, completely exposing her back.


    At the same time, she entrusted her rear to [ Black Planet ], not because of trust in the other party, but trust in her own skills. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena watched "Big World" fleeing. Since the other party had intentions against her, enmity had already formed. So she naturally wouldn''t let the other party leave easily. Even if the opponent didn''t die today, they would be severely injured.


    She was about to pursue, but was blocked by [ Black Planet ] and the black phosphorus snake. Mikmik looked down on this defeated subordinate and the man who had suddenly appeared and went to chase after "Big World".


    Athena emanated a chill, truly intending to kill [ Black Planet ] now.


    But time was of the essence! Her Black Abyss Axe swung, leaving behind a beautiful trajectory. The black phosphorus snake pounced at her like lightning, but she easily dodged, then turned around and swung the axe backhandedly towards the snake. With a crisp sound, the hard scales of the black phosphorus snake shattered, and scales flew everywhere.


    Without hesitation, she charged towards [ Black Planet ] ahead. Holding a sharp broadsword, [ Black Planet ], once a standard martial artist from China, hadn''t forgotten his skills since coming here. As the blade clashed with the axe, this seemingly ordinary broadsword surprisingly blocked the Black Abyss Axe.


    The black phosphorus snake, ignoring its own injuries, once again pounced at Athena, who was caught between two enemies.


    She crouched down, delivering a horizontal kick towards the opponent''s legs. The force made the opponent stagger. Athena then stood up and deflected the opponent''s broadsword, slashing directly towards the opponent''s face.


    But at that moment, the black phosphorus snake lunged forward, intending to bite Athena''s arms. She dodged sideways, spun around, and the axe descended without slowing down.


    The victory was decided!


    Warning, [ Black Planet ] is the fourth-ranked player in the 004 area leaderboard! Do not kill!


    It was too late...


    But a special barrier bounced Athena''s Black Abyss Axe away!

 0065 – Imminent Changes

    0065 ¨C Imminent ChangesSystem Mechanism Successfully Activated!The force rebounding from her hands made Athena''s arm numb, causing her to naturally step back two steps.


    Watching the barrier light emerge from [ Black Planet ], she frowned. The black phosphorus snake, seeing Athena''s hostile gaze, wriggled its heavily injured body and burrowed into the barrier. Although Athena couldn''t open the barrier, it posed no obstacle to the black phosphorus snake.


    By now, [ Black Planet ] had collapsed inside the barrier. Although the system had blocked her axe just now, her previous attacks had landed squarely on the opponent.


    Trying to strike the barrier twice from a distance, Athena confirmed she couldn''t open it as she shout.


    "Is this plot armor?!"


    The system prevented her from killing [ Black Planet ], but it hadn''t stopped her when she was attacked with a spear by someone from Region 004. The rules during the regional battles even encouraged them to kill each other, with no rule mentioning that same-area contestants couldn''t harm each other. So what''s going on now?


    Fourth in the rankings of Region 004? The system seemed to want to select strong individuals; the lives of the weak were inconsequential. Yet all these top players were exceptional.


    Announcement!


    Consequences Realignment process...


    Successfully


    Special adjustments to fix identified bugs will manifests later on....


    Upon realizing she couldn''t kill [ Black Planet ] and disregard the system for pissing her off, she had already shifted her focus elsewhere, pursuing [ Big World ].


    As time passed, surely the first batch of people ahead would become aware of this hidden rule. However, it seemed that not many knew about it yet, including the [ Big World ] or else the opponent wouldn''t have used all available items and fled so desperately.


    This was a mechanism for protecting top players by the system, but this mechanism would surely change later on; otherwise, the top ten wouldn''t have a chance to compete.


    When this hidden rule became public knowledge, this place wouldn''t be a battlefield for 400 players anymore, nor would it be a competition for the top ten; it would become a hunting ground for the strong against the weak.


    For now, she could only catch one by blackmailing one before others caught on.


    Although this battle took less than a minute, this brief time was enough for [ Big World ] to cover a considerable distance.


    Athena stared at the traces on the ground, relentlessly following them.


    "Let me kill you!"


    [ Big World ] was solely focused on fleeing desperately. She didn''t know how long the fool from before could hold her back, filling her heart with endless worry and fear. Faced with a life-or-death situation, she couldn''t afford to slack off.


    Having just experienced a short teleportation, she had expended too much energy, her breath becoming rapid and labored, yet she dared not stop. It felt as if there were invisible pursuers behind her, keeping her in a state of constant tension.


    She gritted her teeth and continued to run forward, pouring all her strength into her legs.


    Even though she was faster than most players, she had initially thought she could escape, but she could feel something tracking her relentlessly, watching her.


    This was her other skill, ''Sharpness''!


    With only one teleportation opportunity and all hidden items already used, if there were no other methods, she might really die here today.


    Escape, run to where there are more people, maybe there she could find a glimmer of hope.


    However, this thought was quickly dismissed by herself. One was a disadvantaged prey, the other a powerful predator. Even if someone saw them, they would prioritize attacking her rather than Athena behind her.


    Her teammate''s skills were still on cooldown and unusable.


    It seemed she could only fight to the death, with no other way out.


    The purple light spot that had disappeared from the map earlier was not only noticed by Athena, but almost everyone paying attention to the map.


    [ Big World ] had myriad thoughts in her mind. Perhaps there were hunters there, or maybe there were powerful monsters. If it was a monster, perhaps it could really give her a chance at survival.


    With her acute sense of danger, perhaps it wouldn''t necessarily be her who was caught up by the monster.


    At this point, all she could do was bet her life on this last hope.


    After running for a long time, she was beginning to feel some fatigue. The human ahead was really fast, running even faster than a shuttle!


    Cats aren''t typically long-distance runners, but without Athena, it wasn''t willing to lose sight of the person. The person ahead suddenly changed direction, and Mikmik''s whiskers trembled as it continued to trot on its short legs.


    Athena, behind them, saw the sudden change in direction and gave up following the tracks, choosing to cut across in the nearest direction. Athena quickened her pace; she knew she couldn''t afford to lose them.


    As the distance closed, the light spot ahead turned again, and the gap between them narrowed. Suddenly, she heard a buzzing sound and looked up to see a swarm of giant bees flying towards her. Each of these bees was as big as a soccer ball, and the sound of their wings was eerie.


    But what was worse was what she saw: [ Big World ] and Mikmik running back ahead of the bees. These giant bees seemed highly aggressive, relentlessly attacking [ Big World ] and Mikmik.


    Mikmik didn''t even have time to find a place to hide. As Athena dodged the bees'' attacks, she pondered her options.


    Meeting at a narrow pass... The woman locked eyes with Athena again, but this time she felt the oppressive force of the swarm behind her, so she continued sprinting in Athena''s direction.


    Life and death are fated; wealth and honor lie in afterlife! Athena furrowed her brows tightly, watching the huge and fierce swarm of bees brought by the person and cat. They were pouring in like a tide.


    They flapped their wings, emitting a deafening buzzing sound, as if they were going to devour the two. Faced with such a scene, Athena didn''t hesitate to turn her body 180 degrees and then sprint with all her might.


    Compared to her arrival, she was now running much faster.


    The wind whistled in her ears, and the heartbeat of [ Big World ] sounded like war drums. Her legs churned like engines, each step filled with power and determination. Beside her was Athena, running alongside her, and behind her were the relentless pursuing bees.


    "Damn you!"


    This girl wants her dead! Athena''s gaze was sharp, coldly staring at her, as if she wanted to tear this culprit apart. Mikmik, exhausted, was already jumping on Athena''s shoulder, cheering.


    When a man is about to die, his words are good. [ Big World ] had never felt so brave before. She turned her head and roared angrily at Athena, "If you hadn''t been chasing me all this time, would I have run to this place? Now we''re being chased by bees because of you!"


    Athena''s face suddenly melted like an iceberg, with a faint smile, seemingly agreeing with the other''s words. She raised her black abyss axe again; even while running, dealing with [ Big World ] was well within her capabilities.


    "A weakling like you? Stop complaining!" sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    You don''t need to outrun the beasts; you just need to outrun your enemies.


    Seeing the glinting black abyss axe in the other''s hand, [ Big World ] suddenly felt like she wanted to live again.

 Chapter 66 – Giant Bees (Revised)

    Chapter 66 ¨C Giant Bees (Revised)Revised Chapter 66


    Her face was a mask of despair. Everything had been going so well¡ªshe only needed to kill that person, and her ranking would have risen again. After the regional battle, she could have obtained more resources, ascending to the pinnacle of her life.


    But now, everything had deviated from her plan. She wasn''t even sure if she could survive.


    No one is unafraid of death.


    "Hey, we''re in this together now; no one can escape! Those giant bees are right behind us. If we start fighting among ourselves now, isn''t that suicidal?"


    "We need to work together to find a way out of this!" The other party smiled sweetly, trying to reason with her.


    "Even if I kill you first, it''s the same." Her response was cold and hard voice. She brandished her black axe and charged at Big World.


    Big World knew that negotiations had broken down. She no longer maintained her smile, sidestepping and kicking towards Athena''s abdomen.


    Athena jumped back a step, evading Big World''s attack. Steadying herself, she swung her black axe again, aiming to cleave her opponent.


    Big World knew she was no match for Athena in terms of strength and combat power. She could only use her agility and speed to dodge, leaping swiftly and nimbly, causing Athena''s attacks to miss repeatedly.


    In one exchange, Athena seized the opportunity to grab Big World''s arm and, with a powerful twist, threw her to the ground.


    "Ah!" The impact of her fragile spine against the stone-strewn ground left her in excruciating pain.


    Big World quickly scrambled to her feet, but by then, the swarm of giant bees had already closed in. They emitted an ear-piercing buzz, announcing the approach of death.


    She ran desperately, her heart filled with despair for survival. Despite getting up as quickly as she could, the fall allowed the giant bees to catch up. They produced sharp buzzing sounds, their wings whipping up a gale that nearly suffocated her.


    Her back injury made it increasingly difficult to move her legs, and she was soon engulfed by the bees.


    Most of the bees stopped and surrounded her, while only a few pursued Athena. Big World lay on the ground, her eyes filled with hatred as she watched Athena flee, a venomous malice making her gaze even more uncomfortable than the most terrifying demon.


    "Ah¡ª"


    Athena ran through the forest, evading the bees chasing her. Although she couldn''t kill her opponent with her own hands, it didn''t mean that the monsters couldn''t.


    From the moment she intended to drag Athena into her scheme, the seeds of hatred were sown between them. Athena''s subsequent pursuit and the bees she summoned to trap Athena only caused this seed to grow.


    Every choice was inevitable, leading to an unavoidable conclusion.


    The purple dot representing Big World vanished from the map, and someone automatically filled her position.


    Athena''s ranking had already dropped by one, but now, with one more top-ten contender eliminated, she was back in tenth place. Her location was marked on the map, exposing her to everyone.


    The more she wanted to hide, the harder it became.


    She initially thought the giant bees would give up after catching the intruder and chasing her for a while, returning to their territory. But now it seemed they considered her and Big World as a group, relentlessly pursuing her.


    Even though only about twenty bees were chasing her, it was still a significant problem.


    She darted through the forest, constantly changing direction, hoping to lose the bees. However, no matter how hard she tried, the giant insects remained on her trail.


    Athena stopped, her gaze cold as she looked at the bees behind her. Taking a deep breath, she decided to confront these troublesome creatures head-on.


    She retrieved a firebomb from her system backpack and hurled it at the bees. Unfortunately, the shoddy device didn''t explode as she had hoped, only emitting a small flame.


    The bees were startled by the sudden fire, pausing their chase momentarily. But they quickly regrouped and continued to pursue Athena.


    Her veins bulged in frustration. She knew her homemade firebombs couldn''t compare to Mu''s, but she hadn''t expected them to be this poor.


    She produced another explosive ball and threw it over, just like last time, still with only a small flame. However, this time, there was also a flame enhancer thrown out together with Athena.


    The moment the flame enhancer touched the tiny flame, it seemed to ignite a barrel of gunpowder, exploding thunderously! A raging fire swept over, engulfing all those originally massive bees.


    The fire was fierce, and all of this happened in an instant. The bees didn''t even have time to react before disappearing into the sea of flames.


    Unfortunately, this didn''t kill them. They charged out of the fire curtain, facing the raging flames. Surprisingly, they weren''t entirely unscathed; their wings bore tiny holes from the flames, and their fur was singed.


    While the flames inflicted injuries upon them, they also ignited their ferocity. Despite their injured wings, their speed increased rather than decreased, and their eyes gleamed with a fiery red hue.


    Lifting their tails, their sharp and enormous stingers emitted an eerie glow, all aimed directly at Athena.


    Just when Athena thought they would charge at her with their stingers, the stingers of these bees began to rotate slowly.


    An intense feeling of unease and danger surged in Athena''s heart. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Not good!"


    Skill ''Hunter''! She took a deep breath, continuously gathering all her strength to her legs. Muscles in her legs tensed up, her gaze firm and focused, locked onto the front.


    Suddenly, she pushed off with all her might, leaving a deep footprint on the ground beneath her feet. In that moment, her legs erupted with unprecedented force, darting forward like an arrow released from a bowstring!


    The wind whistled past her ears, her speed unbelievably fast, but the strain on her legs from the skill was considerable.


    Her premonition was correct. Unlike normal stingers, the tails of these giant bees first spun and then immediately detached, the stingers spinning as they shot out like a shower of bullets, aiming for her.


    If she hadn''t reacted in time, if she hadn''t skillfully dodged, perhaps she would have been pierced to the ground by those densely packed stingers by now.


    The gleaming massive stingers fiercely stabbed into the ground, leaving behind enormous craters.


    As these bees lost their attacking weapons, Athena breathed a sigh of relief, but her heart tightened again, for she saw the stingers being retracted back into the bees'' tails.


    "Damn it!" Even Athena, who usually cared about her image, couldn''t help but swear.

 Chapter 67 – Giant Bees’ Killer

    Chapter 67 ¨C Giant Bees¡¯ KillerThe spines at their tails turned out to be reusable, not disposable as initially thought.


    The giant spines, once shot out, were now eerily retracted back to their tails as if pulled by an invisible force.


    During this retrieval process, the spines spun rapidly, seemingly gathering power for a more intense strike. Simultaneously, their massive wings vibrated incessantly, emitting a buzzing sound akin to an indefatigable machine tirelessly in motion.


    Their rotation speed surpassed even the first time, and the time for gathering momentum was significantly reduced. Soon, the second wave of spines surged forth, forcing Athena into a desperate evasion.


    She couldn''t afford to merely dodge; she needed a plan to prevent their retrieval; otherwise, she would remain at a disadvantage.


    Atthena eyed the spines, refusing to resign herself to fate. Between her fingers emerged an explosive ball and flame enhancer, hurled towards the towering mass across from her.


    The once orderly swarm of giant bees, upon seeing what Athena had thrown, instinctively grew wary. They quickly scattered, but the projectile was swift.


    To her delight, the explosive ball unleashed its formidable power successfully! Accompanied by a deafening roar, a fierce explosion ensued, as if rending the very fabric of space, illuminating everything around as bright as day.


    In an instant, nearby bees lay injured and mutilated by the blast, flames raging and consuming several directly, their wings disintegrating amidst the fire as their colossal bodies plummeted to the ground, charred black.


    The few remaining bees eyed Athena, a retreat evident in their movements, dragging their battered bodies away.


    The intense explosion had also affected Athena, hurling her backward with a massive shockwave. As she stood up, coughing twice, dust scattered around her.


    She hadn''t experienced the full power of the explosive ball before, only testing it once or twice under Mu''s supervision, but its magnitude now far exceeded her expectations. It seemed she had underestimated the weapon''s destructive potential, initially considering it merely an ordinary explosive, now revealed to be of apocalyptic proportions.


    She needed to exercise caution in its usage; otherwise, she might end up harming herself as much as her enemies. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With no time to rest, she retrieved her Moonlight Bow once more, aiming at the fleeing bees, attempting to shoot them down.


    Triggering extremely low probability death state!


    Athena was astonished. She had only triggered this state once before, and now it happened again. The bee she hit fell to the ground, lifeless, while the others sped up in flight.


    Since she had the upper hand, she couldn''t allow the bees to escape. Behind the towering mass lay a massive colony, best not to let the tiger return to the mountain.


    She fired several more arrows. Despite the bees showing signs of evasion, the chances of success weren''t particularly high, but each shot inflicted damage, significantly slowing their flight.


    Athena seized the opportunity to pursue, switching her Moonlight Bow for the Black Abyss Axe. Though the bees flew at a considerable height, she couldn''t completely parallel their flight with her jumps.


    The giant bees, unable to escape, aimed their spines at Athena.


    She agilely dashed towards a nearby tree, pushing off its trunk to leap into the air. Then, with another burst of strength, she landed on another, thicker branch, using it to propel herself upward, flipping in mid-air and landing above a giant bee. In mid-air, she changed her direction, wielding the reflective Black Abyss Axe in her hand, swinging with all her might towards her target!


    One bee cleaved, another kicked, leaping towards another. The pace of battle was rapid, the situation ever-changing. Seeing only two giant bees remaining, they abandoned their preparations and dove straight at Athena.


    Just as Athena landed from her leap, barely releasing her feet, she saw a giant bee lunging at her again. She dodged to the side, swiftly striking with her axe.


    Only one remained, noticeably faster, targeted by Athena''s Moonlight Bow and swiftly eradicated.


    With no time for rest, Athena hastened away from this troubled place at the fastest speed possible. The explosion''s thunderous roar moments ago had alerted monsters in the vicinity and caught the attention of people in the distance, her marker on the map shining brightly.


    Whether the swarm of giant bees would pursue again was uncertain; players couldn''t kill her, but their options were limited.


    The markers on the map kept changing, with her own representation glowing even brighter after the recent battle, elevating her ranking once again.


    Sixth place, Big Dream!


    Not only were others approaching, but even two from the top 10 were closing in on her position.


    The once dark forest now blazed brilliantly, illuminated by the fires consuming the trees in every direction.


    This was precisely what the system had previously introduced: the Flame Enhancer, a necessary tool for setting mountains ablaze. Little had she expected to be setting one ablaze herself someday.


    With nowhere to hide and her position marked, finding her would be effortless for her adversaries, even with evasion skills.


    Her immediate objective was to put distance between herself and this place, find a spot to recuperate, then locate a defensible position.


    Athena''s figure moved through the night like a ghost, undeterred by visibility constraints, running at her maximum speed.


    Several consecutive battles and prolonged running had left her leg muscles sore, exacerbated by the strain from her earlier skill usage.


    Mikmik, at this moment, simply wished to curl up somewhere inconspicuous like an unnoticed cat. It clung to Athena''s shoulder, its claws gripping her clothing to prevent itself from being jostled by her vigorous movements.


    Its emerald green eyes, however, missed nothing in their surroundings, perceiving all movements as sluggish.


    Upon Athena''s deliberate search, she discovered a steep incline in this terrain-variable forest, sprinting up it at top speed.


    The steepness almost caused her to tumble down, her hands clutching onto a rock, her arms exerting force to propel her upward, successfully reaching the summit.


    Only the quiet rustle of the wind and the vast expanse of darkness surrounded her, concealing the lurking dangers. Yet, in this silence, danger seemed more ominous.


    Upon reaching the elevated ground, Mikmik had already leapt from her shoulder, patrolling the area.


    Though relatively safe here, Athena finally had a moment to catch her breath. Her face was pale, sweat dripping from her body, and her legs throbbing in pain.


    To worsen matters, a long gash can be seen her side, bleeding profusely from the sprint, soaking her clothes red around the wound.


    Despite her attempts to evade at maximum speed earlier, the relentless barrage of projectile attacks from bees had still managed to graze her, leaving behind a deep cut.

 Chapter 68 – Potato, Ask-The-Heavens and Big Bear

    Chapter 68 ¨C Potato, Ask-The-Heavens and Big BearShe endeavored to take a deep breath, feeling the pang in her chest as she slowed her breathing, reaching into her system backpack for the healing potion.


    [ Healing Potion ]Quality: ExcellentCategory:PotionEffect:Rapidly restores severe injuries prior to breakdown, swiftly heals ordinary injuries post-breakdown!A life-saving elixir, exceedingly precious, to be used with caution; deploying it while uninjured could have adverse effects!


    Now was the opportune moment to use it. With ambitious players behind her and predatory monsters ahead, any vulnerability here could spell her demise.


    Athena uncorked the vial of healing potion, a faint fragrance wafting into her nostrils. Just the scent alone invigorated her spirits.


    Bringing the potion to her lips, she gulped it down, the icy liquid coursing down her throat, green light emanating from her wounds, healing at an astonishing pace.


    A panacea for all ailments, a resurrection to full health.


    Experiencing this wondrous bodily transformation, she drew the attention of the nearby grassball Mikmik, cradling it in her arms, soothing its tousled fur satisfactorily before setting it down.


    Once again, she retrieved the Moonlight Bow, taking cover behind rocks, vigilant of her surroundings.


    Athena observed cautiously, and before long, she noticed some unusual movements. Figures seemed to stir in the distant woods. Gripping the Moonlight Bow tightly, she prepared to confront the impending danger.


    As the footsteps drew nearer, Athena finally discerned the newcomers. They had been drawn by the flames and explosions, seeking nothing more than an opportunity.


    There were four in total, clearly a cohesive group, emboldened to approach from this direction. Their intentions were unmistakable. The four individuals dispersed, each heading towards the direction of the flames, utterly oblivious to the lone figure atop a distant slope.


    After brief consideration, Athena decided to let them pass. Amidst the pervasive peril, she had no desire to engage in combat and attract further attention.


    The somewhat portly man rubbed his hands nervously, his eyes darting fearfully around. He felt as though a monster could spring at him from any direction or someone might suddenly appear and threaten his life. Every step he took was cautious, yet he continued to follow closely behind the others.


    When Potato arrived, he was still full of anticipation and ambition. But upon arrival, he was immediately besieged. Without hesitation, he turned to Athena for help. Having been hiding all along, even his white clothes remained pristine, not a hair out of place.


    In contrast, the one in front of him, Ask-For-The-Heavens, was covered in bloodstains, his clothes tattered. The only clean aspect was his face behind the glasses.


    "Boss, where are we going? Are we heading towards the place where the light was just now?" The mere thought made Potato swallow involuntarily, feeling his hairs stand on end.


    Ask-For-The-Heavens paused, turning his head slightly to glance at him. "Leave all your scrolls behind; you''re free to go."


    "Oh, ha-ha-ha-ha, no, no! Just kidding, just kidding. I''ll stick with you; it''s an extra meat shield for you. Plus, I can keep using scrolls!" This was Potato''s offer, aiming to latch onto this powerful figure.


    On this journey, he had truly witnessed Ask-For-The-Heavens''s prowess. This seemingly frail young man was terrifying when it came to combat. The first time he witnessed that bloody scene, he was frozen in place with fear.


    Ask-For-The-Heavens ignored him, continuing forward on his own. Unlike others who rushed in panic, their pace remained unhurried, showing no concern that they might arrive after the battle had ended.


    Half a day had passed since the competition began. Everyone was gradually grasping the intricacies of the regional battle, striving to climb the rankings.


    At this moment, a fierce battle erupted, drawing many opportunist players to it.


    Unlike the commotion here, Big Bear seemed to belong in this forest. Upon arriving, it was as if she had returned home.


    When she first arrived, she had tried to find Athena, but to no avail. So, she leisurely found a place to settle down with an old man, quietly waiting.


    No monsters or people had disturbed them.


    Her courage grew, and after catching a small rabbit with the old man, she cleaned it by the river, lit a fire, and began roasting it, presenting the image of a camping trip.


    To her surprise, the old man, seeing her becoming too relaxed, woke her up for training. While he worked on his old trade, chopping wood nearby.


    Even after clearing a small circle of trees around them, they still hadn''t attracted anything. They lived as though on vacation, until she heard a loud explosion from across the river.


    Startled, she jumped up and appeared behind the old man as if teleporting, squatting down and tightly grabbing his shoulder.


    "Why is there still fighting? What''s with the explosion?!" she exclaimed.


    The old man pushed her hand away sternly, turning to her with a serious expression. "This is regional battle, not a vacation spot!"


    Wide-eyed, Big Bear seemed to comprehend. "Then let''s run; there''s a fight over there." Her actions were as swift as her thought process, but unfortunately, she still went back to get her roasted rabbit, only to be caught by the old man.


    "No, we stay," the old man shook his head. Big Bear still had much to learn. Otherwise, even with them around, the days ahead wouldn''t be as easy.


    Panicked, Big Bear spun around, but under the old man''s unwavering gaze, she reluctantly agreed.


    Finally satisfied, the old man nodded. Though this young woman lacked in many aspects, her obedience was her only redeeming quality.


    People were converging from all directions, including from Region 003. This was more than Athena had anticipated, far exceeding her expectations.


    Most of the combatants had arrived, and Athena''s earlier skirmish was just the beginning.


    Did they not anticipate the influx of people? No, it was precisely because they knew many would gather here that they came.


    Some came to fight, some to observe, and of course, some chose to head in the opposite direction.


    With the top ten plus Athena, this place would witness the convergence of three powerhouses.


    This would be one of the largest free-for-alls since the beginning of the regional battle, now enclosed within the barrier.


    S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 69: The Sand Man And His Indiscriminate Killings

    Chapter 69: The Sand Man And His Indiscriminate KillingsAs the four figures approached, they were met with a disheartening sight: no trace of any survivors.


    Before them lay a vast crater, remnants of a recent explosion, surrounded by a devastated landscape. The forest smoldered with lingering flames, and the ground was littered with the corpses of giant bees. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Exchanging grim looks, the group unanimously decided to find a place to hide. They concealed themselves behind the sturdy trunks of trees, their breathing slowed, becoming one with the forest.


    Time ticked by, every second feeling like an eternity. Footsteps echoed from all directions, converging on the massive crater, but no one made the first move. More and more people gathered, their various illumination devices piercing through the darkness, casting eerie shadows. War badges on the players'' uniforms glowed with the colors of their factions, blue and red lights intermingling.


    Unconsciously, the crowd divided into two factions, blue and red, each group huddled together.


    Silence reigned, but it was soon broken by a sneering voice.


    "You dogs, gathered here to see your daddy, huh?"


    The speaker was a man clad in green, his hair slicked back in a flamboyant style. He had been a prominent figure from the beginning, his arrogance backed by his abilities. His lower body appeared like a mass of sand and mud¡ªa result of his unique skill to transform into a sandy form. He had been a formidable presence since the onset of the regional battle, notorious for betraying allies, ranking fourth with this overpowered skill.


    "Damn you!"


    A middle-aged woman, exuding an air of dominance, retorted fiercely. She wielded a large machete, resting one foot on a nearby rock, her weapon pointed at the man. She was known as the [ Landlady ], ranked second in their ranks.


    "Karma will get bite at you!"


    "Not a soul will mourn the death of the idiot from Region 004!"


    Her sharp words cut through the tension, and restraint snapped. The sand-man, known for betraying allies, merged with the ground, swiftly tunneling through the dirt, leaving a cloud of dust in his wake.


    The rest took up their weapons, murder in their eyes, each determined to eliminate the opposing factions. Despite the immediate threat, both sides tacitly agreed to first eliminate members from other regions while some spectating from the safe distance.


    The air grew taut, ready to snap at any moment. Unlike their initial, hesitant skirmishes, this battle was driven by unbridled fury and adrenaline. They fought with unrestrained ferocity, their war cries and the clash of blades filling the air. Blood spattered, but it only fueled their madness.


    The sand-man''s treacherous attacks were relentless. Emerging unpredictably from the ground, he skewered unsuspecting players with sandy spikes, stealing their war badges upon their deaths. His success was undeniable, but it did not go unnoticed. The other players, realizing the threat he posed, began to strategize, planning to take him down first.


    Immersed in his ruthless spree, the sand-man disregarded their tactics. As he prepared another backstab, three enemies lunged at him from behind. Forced to abandon his target, he tunneled back into the ground, only to find himself surrounded. Weapons pierced the earth, forming a tightening circle around him.


    Cursing under his breath, the sand-man aimed for a weaker opponent. He emerged in a burst of spikes, sharp and resilient while showing his most eerily smile he could muster, defying any elemental damage.


    Just as he believed he was breaking through the encirclement, the [ Landlady ] flipped into the fray, her seemingly sharp machete gleaming.


    "Running away? Weren¡¯t you just bragging? Coward!" She taunted, her grin mocking his futile efforts.


    Ignoring her, the sand-man retaliated by transforming into a sandstorm, attempting to engulf her in a makeshift sand wall. The bystanders including the spectators beyond watched with cold detachment, their animosity towards the sand-man growing. His indiscriminate attacks had claimed lives from both Regions 003 and 004, leaving him isolated.


    Yet, the Landlady and the sand-man seemed evenly matched, locked in a vicious stalemate. Gradually, the Landlady gained the upper hand, prompting unease among the spectators. If she killed the sand-man, the balance of power would shift, and she could lead Region 004 in a devastating assault.


    Finally, someone made a move, aiming to disrupt the encirclement around the sand-man. However, both combatants unexpectedly turned their blades against these interlopers, momentarily ceasing their own conflict.


    The sudden betrayal left the would-be rescuers in shock, their faces twisted in disbelief as they fell. The sand-man and the Landlady stood in a tense truce, recognizing the peril of mutual destruction amidst the hostile crowd.


    They began to probe each other''s defenses, searching for weaknesses, yet neither could land a fatal blow. Both knew that acting recklessly could make them easy prey for the others lurking around like wolves.


    Aware of a third presence yet to reveal itself, the crowd started to back away, creating space for the two fighters. The battlefield was strewn with the corpses of around twenty players, victims of such cruel war.


    The Landlady remained calm, collecting fallen war badges and integrating them into her own. The sand-man, lacking patience, yelled into the darkness, "Hey! Ranked seventh, ''Big Dream,'' why not rename yourself to ''Gutter Rat?'' Suits you better!"


    "Ha ha ha, ha ha ha!" His laughter rang out, oddly jarring in the grim setting.


    Athena, having just dealt with four hidden adversaries, heard the sand-man¡¯s taunt echo through the battlefield.

 Chapter 70: Big Dream And The Arrogant Player

    Chapter 70: Big Dream And The Arrogant PlayerThe derisive laughter from nearby was truly grating. Athena picked up the wartime medal from the ground and merged it with her own medals. Even while she was still on the rocks, she had noticed the two glimmers arriving at this spot.


    Yet she didn''t choose to immediately join the melee; instead, she opted to first eliminate the four individuals she intended to ambush.


    Listening to the taunts of the opposing side, it was impossible not to feel anger stirring within her. At that moment, she couldn''t discern whether the other side was merely arrogant or employing psychological tactics to goad her into action, or perhaps both.


    With such eagerness from the other party to meet her, Athena would naturally fulfill their desire.


    Her figure moved like lightning, astonishingly fast as she darted and leaped between the tree trunks, without any hint of hesitation.


    As she drew closer to the designated area, she finally arrived at the chaotic battleground. Danger permeated the air here, causing hearts to race involuntarily.


    Her arrival did not go unnoticed; those around naturally turned their gaze towards this belated third party.


    Not for anything else, but because she was the person marked by the purple glimmer.


    Ranked seventh in the regional battle, the powerhouse of region 004 - [ Big Dream ].


    The player digging pits incessantly patted his own sandy lower body, pointing at Athena and laughing uproariously, "Look, a rat in the gutter. But just say a word, and she scurries right up."


    However, [ Landlady ] did not share the same sentiment. She stared fixedly at the bow and arrows in Athena''s hands, sensing a chilling aura emanating from them. She had some knowledge of weaponry from before; this person''s rank might be lower than theirs, but certainly not weaker.


    Observing the incessant movement of the other''s lips, Athena couldn''t muster any feeling of anger. For someone destined to die, they could naturally garner more goodwill from others.


    Where shadows and darkness lurked was her domain. With nimble agility, she moved among the crowd, unnoticed.


    Clasped in its mouth was a mud-wrapped ball, carefully chosen by Athena. It was a relatively stable explosive ball. At Athena''s signal, it brought the fiery projectile to the vicinity of the player digging pits.


    She didn''t aim to kill this fellow with the blast, but rendering them severely injured would suffice. If the outcome was even better, perhaps it could incapacitate them directly.


    As her moonlit bow and arrow drew taut, she took aim at the opponent. Lunar energy infused the arrow, emitting a faint white mist and coldness.


    Even though the arrow had yet to be released, an intangible oppression already hung in the air. The player digging pits, who had been incessantly chattering, noticed the silver bow and arrow aimed at them and felt the alarm bells in their mind start ringing. Their expression darkened; the opponent''s strength seemed much greater than they had imagined.


    Not daring to confront head-on, they hastily changed direction, melding into the earth as sand, intending to draw more people to shield themselves. They headed towards the gathering place of the crowd.


    Mikmik, always attentive to the slight movement of the small mound on the ground, continued to tread alongside the opponent with its small steps.


    The moment Athena''s bow was fully drawn, the arrow was released. Spinning at incredible speed, the arrow carried a thunderous force towards the opponent, burying itself deep into the ground without finding its mark.


    However, this action frightened those around. Athena''s seemingly simple arrow buried half its shaft into the ground, leaving behind only a feather.


    The player digging pits moved astonishingly fast within the earth. For him, Athena''s arrow posed no suspense. No matter how powerful the arrow was, if it couldn''t hit him, it was useless. He felt triumphant, especially amidst the bustling crowd where Athena had no chance of discovering him.


    But what awaited the opponent was a different scene. The bow and arrow were long-range weapons; compared to melee combat, he didn''t believe the opponent could win.


    However, that didn''t matter. At least, he had defeated the opponent on another level.


    With the first arrow missing its mark, Athena didn''t pause. Immediately, she drew another arrow. Its power remained undiminished, yet it still couldn''t hit the opponent.


    Even its direction was not towards the ground, but in mid-air, a plain and unremarkable clod of earth suddenly thrown.


    Just when everyone was full of doubt, the swiftly flying and continuously rotating arrow had already violently collided with the clod of earth! In an instant, sparks flew off in all directions, quickly spreading into a raging inferno, followed by a earth-shattering explosion once again.


    The gigantic shockwave, the blazing fire curtain, the terrifying explosive power, engulfed the player who was just boasting moments ago, even those around him were not spared from being swept into it.


    People panicked and fled in all directions, but faced with such a terrifying force, they had nowhere to escape, flames raged, and the agony was unbearable. The once devastated area now looked like a horrific earthly purgatory. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thick smoke billowed, flames shot into the sky, and people collapsed on the ground emitting piercing screams and cries of pain.


    The player in the center of the rough explosion was directly blown back to his original form, his whole body ragged, like a broken puppet, covered in various large and small wounds, his neatly combed big hair now burned into a frizzy mess, like sheep''s wool.


    His once clean clothes were now covered with dirt, blood, and even unextinguished flames.


    He couldn''t help screaming and howling, rolling on the ground trying to extinguish the flames on his body. He wanted to transform back into his sand state, but his body condition prevented him from doing so.


    He was directly exposed to the public eye, this was the first time everyone saw this arrogant player''s true appearance, it was previously thought that he was a half-human, half-sand figure, only to realize now that he was not as tall as expected, being only about 1.5 meters tall.


    When in sand form, he was close to two meters, and his height had always been a point of insecurity for him.


    Athena looked coldly at him, retracting the bow in her hand, slowly walking towards him. The people around, witnessing this hellish scene, although not knowing how Athena did it, all stopped their battles, making way for her.


    Landlady stood by the side, the shockwave from earlier also impacted her, causing no harm, but still shocking her. Looking at Athena walking over, she didn''t dare to act rashly, unsure if Athena could trigger such an explosion a second time.


    The fur on Mikmik''s body was slightly scorched from not running fast enough, feeling a bit resentful, it circled around Athena''s legs. Athena also did not expect the explosive power of this fireball to be so great.


    This was done by a goblin, given to her, also of inferior quality, but intentionally made by Mu. In order to show how bad she had to be to produce this kind of quality.


    Lifting up the person lying on the ground by the back of his neck, slowly dragging him out of the battlefield, the scattered wartime medals around were also collected.


    Potato and Asks-The-Heavens hid behind trees, staring in disbelief at everything unfolding.


    "Is that Boss Big Dream?" Potato looked at the battle that quickly ended, feeling like he was still in a dream, a big big dream.


    "Yeah." Asks-The-Heavens responded heavily, he had thought Big Dream would be strong, but he didn''t expect her to be this powerful.

 Chapter 71: Headpats

    Chapter 71: HeadpatsAfter Athena hurled the explosive ball, the intensity of the brawl subsided, and everyone felt a sense of vulnerability.


    Yet, sporadic individuals continued to trickle in from the distance, drawn by the cries of agony. Athena, being empathetic, promptly knocked them out cold and dragged the troublemakers away, keeping her teammates safe. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Not a hint of murderous intent surfaced throughout, and the system''s protective measures remained dormant.


    Thanks to her earlier performance, no one dared to approach her or test her now. Everyone hoped she''d stay as far away as possible.


    Athena, instead of seeking out the frenzied giant bees, casually diverted with her teammates to the riverside.


    A fish monster, reeking of blood, leaped from the water, its transparent body crashing heavily onto the surface, sending a massive spray of water into the air.


    "Safe travels through the water," the fish monster didn''t understand human language but knew food when it saw it, opening its gaping maw to swallow its prey.


    Ranked sixth now after her recent actions, Athena remained unfazed.


    With Athena gone, Ask-The-Heavens and Potato returned to the scene. The 004 region found its backbone, with most people acquainted with Ask-The-Heavens, even friendly with him.


    Meanwhile, Landlady''s faction in the 003 region, due to a combination of interests and Landlady''s recent betrayal, found themselves abandoned. Nobody listened to her anymore, rendering the 003 region completely fragmented.


    As Ask-The-Heavens and Landlady tangled, the 003 region quickly crumbled, scattering its inhabitants. Landlady hadn''t anticipated that this newcomer could so effortlessly rally the 004 region with just a few words.


    Uncertain if Athena would make a surprise return, they opted to flee.


    Thus, nothing could stop Ask-The-Heavens now.


    Ranked tenth, Ask-The-Heavens.


    After successfully dealing with the teammate-sabotaging troublemaker, Athena wasted no time, swiftly dispatching the ferocious fish monster with a single swing of her axe. Crimson blood momentarily tainted the river, but soon, the water returned to its natural hue.


    Completing this sequence, Athena turned to find Mikmik, who had already found a resting spot, lazily lounging against a tree.


    It was a relatively sturdy tree, capable of bearing a person''s weight. With ease, Athena climbed up and sat beside Mikmik, listening to the soothing sound of flowing water.


    The gentle murmur of the river was pleasant, calming their spirits. Athena closed her eyes, and Mikmik, too, seemed to relax in this tranquil atmosphere.


    From her pocket, Athena retrieved a slightly yellowed, deluxe food menu, tearing it open to reveal an array of barbecue delicacies.


    Various skewers, meats, fish... each exuded irresistible aroma and tantalizing colors, a feast for the senses.


    In this pitch-black environment, Athena leaned against the tree, accompanied by a cute and obedient cat squatting nearby. They savored the tempting delicacies, listening to the rushing river, enjoying this rare moment of peace and comfort.


    Taking a juicy bite of lamb skewer, the spicy, flavorful taste filled her mouth, satisfying her palate. She nodded in contentment, then offered another skewer to Mikmik.


    Opening the regional chat channel, it was the perfect accompaniment to their meal.


    ---------------------------------------


    "Today''s another day of tree chopping; planning to make some wooden furniture."


    "To be honest, being here has changed me. I used to swear by early nights and early rises for good health, but now, that''s just a slogan in my life."


    "They fight to the death in their regional battle, while we enjoy rare leisure vacation time here."


    "Tch, ignorance. This is probably the last time for you lot who can''t even get into regional battles. We just had a fierce skirmish, and those monsters are getting stronger one by one. After the regional battle, they''ll only get stronger. Do you think the system won''t strengthen the monsters?"


    "Wow, a big shot who participated in regional battles is here to enlighten us."


    "Are you all that lazy? You even have time to chat."


    "The ones above are probably not in the same place as me. Those monsters are real freaks. Luckily, I''m far away; I extinguished the fire on me just in time."


    "How''s that possible? If the system really strengthens the monsters, it''s as if it wants us dead. What''s the point?"


    "I think what they''re saying is true."


    "Come on, the system doesn''t care if you live or die. The rules of the regional battle are clear: survival of the fittest. We, the top two hundred chosen, have this attitude, let alone you small fry."


    -------------------------------


    A stream of information flooded the region chat channel with the addition of participants in the regional battle, quickly devolving into various debates and arguments. Arguments escalated into personal attacks, and soon, chaos ensued.


    Some, unable to contain their frustration, or perhaps driven by madness, initiated challenges within the region, exchanging names and sharing locations.


    Their victories were met with cheers, fans fanning the flames, and allies rallying around them.


    Watching the exhilarating exchanges in the regional chat channel, Athena found her skewers becoming even more savory. Beside her, Mikmik shook its little head, not understanding what was happening. It leaped into her arms, joining her in staring at the system panel, though it couldn''t comprehend a thing.


    Rubbing its head, Athena refrained from tousling its fur as she usually did, instead offering gentle strokes, observing Mikmik''s curious demeanor.


    Mikmik and its companions were intelligent creatures, though she wasn''t sure if they could read. Her idea of having Mikmik record information from parchment onto stone had fizzled out; their drawings were too abstract for her to decipher.


    In the end, she only managed to salvage two ordinary pieces of parchment.


    If she could teach the trio to read, they could potentially become little informants, perhaps unexpectedly useful in various situations.


    What were Paopao and Witty up to? How many suitable weapons had they crafted?


    It was inconvenient that while players could communicate remotely using the system, the trio couldn''t.


    If only Mikmik had access to the system panel and could provide real-time location updates. Tracking enemies would be much easier then, serving not just as a warning but as a tactical advantage.


    After a tense day, nerves finally unwound in this tranquil setting and whole body stretching out. Having indulged in such a feast and self-pleasure, Athena, half-leaning against the tree trunk, felt drowsiness creeping in. She patted Mikmik.


    Sensing her gradually calming breaths, Mikmik attentively monitored the slightest rustle around them.


    Under these circumstances, Athena wasn''t truly falling asleep, more like drifting into a light slumber. At any sign of disturbance, she would snap awake, albeit with Mikmik by her side, she felt more at ease.

 Chapter 72: Imminent War And Doom

    Chapter 72: Imminent War And DoomAthena had been resting against the trunk of a tree when she suddenly felt a sense of impending danger. Her eyes snapped open, and at the same moment, Mikmik, who had been lying quietly beside her, also sensed something was amiss. It lifted its head, its sharp eyes fixed intently on the opposite bank of the river.


    The serene environment, previously filled only with the sound of flowing water, was now disturbed by an unusual noise. A massive giant bee, its size comparable to that of a small helicopter, was rapidly beating its wings and producing a loud buzzing sound as it flew across the river.


    Its enormous body cast a dark shadow in the air, creating an intense sense of oppression. Unlike the golden-yellow giant bees she had encountered before, this one was entirely black, devoid of any other color, as if it were an emissary born from darkness. Clearly, it belonged to a completely different species- no, entirely new level!


    Although it wasn''t heading directly towards Athena, she immediately went on high alert. The bee''s flight path indicated it wasn''t targeting her, but its sheer size made it impossible to ignore. Once it had flown a considerable distance away, Athena exhaled heavily, feeling the blood begin to circulate through her body again.


    This was no ordinary giant bee. It was highly likely to be the king of its species. For unknown reasons, it had ventured out, indicating that its hive could be nearby. If the king bee was already so formidable, the presence of a queen bee would be even more daunting.


    Realizing this place was too dangerous to stay, Athena and Mikmik decided to head in the opposite direction of the black bee to avoid any confrontation.


    However, as they progressed, the situation became increasingly unsettling. Along the way, Athena encountered numerous other black bees, each the size of a football, patrolling in groups of five, their presence omnipresent in the surroundings.


    In almost every corner, she could see them. During one such encounter with another group of black bees, they spotted her first. Without hesitation, Athena drew her Moonlight Bow and shot an arrow at one of them. Due to the sheer number of bees, she refrained from using her explosive fireballs to avoid attracting even more attention.


    Her hands moved swiftly, not pausing for a moment. Two more arrows shot out, their cold gleam cutting through the air with lethal precision towards the giant bees.


    ¡°Swish! Swish!¡±


    With two muffled sounds, the bees, which had been hovering mid-air, plummeted like kites with broken strings. Though not dead, they were now wingless and defenseless. Mikmik was already at their side, ready to finish them off.


    Before she could catch her breath, she saw two more bees¡¯ stingers darting towards her, their speed astonishing, closing in within the blink of an eye.


    Reacting instantly, she made her Moonlight Bow vanish and summoned a pitch-black axe, shimmering with a mysterious light. Gripping the axe handle with both hands, she swung it forcefully, cleaving one stinger in half and dodging the other. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her feet pushed off from a tree branch, sending her hurtling forward. The branch creaked under the immense force, nearly snapping. Athena charged towards the two bees, her axe slicing through the air with blinding speed, bringing them crashing down to the ground.


    As she landed, leaves scattered around her. Nearby, Mikmik had already dealt with two more bees. Without lingering, they continued their journey, moving swiftly.


    Other black bees on patrol soon heard the commotion and started converging on the location, but many of them remained focused on their original patrol routes, indicating more pressing matters at hand.


    By the time reinforcements arrived, they found only the corpses of their fallen comrades, with Athena long gone.


    After this skirmish, Athena altered her course again. This time, however, she encountered not black bees but the previously seen yellow ones.


    They were spread out, forming small patrol teams of five, searching the area. It was clear that the black and yellow bees were from different species.


    As she traveled further, regardless of the direction she took, she kept running into these patrols. Starting to doubt her own judgment, Athena found a quiet spot and opened the regional chat channel.


    -----------------------


    "This regional war is ridiculous, monsters everywhere, and it''s pitch black."


    "I don''t think I''ll make it back alive. My shelter is going to end up belonging to these monsters."


    "Why are these bees so huge? They look like flying lumps of coal."


    "Stop spamming the chat. It''s full of messages from people in the regional war."


    "I ran into them too, but mine were yellow."


    "So many bees everywhere. Have I wandered into their swarm?"


    -------------------


    It became apparent that Athena wasn''t the only one encountering this situation. The entire black forest seemed to be teeming with these bees, both black and yellow, now spreading out and engaging in battles.


    The bees'' extensive patrols meant inevitable clashes with players.


    Warning: The Black Giant Hornet Clan and Yellow Giant Hornet Clan in the Black Forest are about to go to war!


    All players are advised to avoid the area!


    !!!


    All players are advised to avoid the area!


    The system notification always came so abruptly, catching people off guard and giving them no time to react. Even though it was anticipated that the situation would be complex, no one expected it to be this severe.


    A single bee posed a certain level of threat, but a squad of bees could kill a player. The onset of war between two large swarms was a nightmare for all the players present.


    Especially considering that Athena had initially seen the queen bee. The inclusion of such a high-level unit elevated the war to a new, unprecedented level.


    Athena ultimately decided to run along the river because she noticed that the density of bees was the lowest by the riverside.


    As soon as there was movement on the river again, she had already nocked an arrow on her Moonlit Bow, ready to shoot in that direction.


    Suddenly, emerald green vines sprouted from the ground as if by magic, growing at an astonishing speed. They intertwined and entwined with each other, and in the blink of an eye, these vines formed a tightly woven, impenetrable green wall blocking the way ahead.


    The arrow shot by Athena spun rapidly against the vine wall, eventually piercing through, but even that brief pause was enough for the person behind it to evade.


    Athena raised an eyebrow. Even though she had witnessed a variety of tactics today, she was still amazed by the opponent''s vine wall defense.


    The person on the other side, seeing her fierce attack, shouted in panic and fear, "Big Dream, it''s me, Big Bear! I was wrong, please stop shooting!"


    Athena heard the shout but still aimed her bow in that direction.


    It wasn¡¯t until she heard the system notification.


    Big Bear has initiated a trade with you: 50 silver coins!

 Chapter 73: Big Bear, The Elderly Goblin And Spider Cave

    Chapter 73: Big Bear, The Elderly Goblin And Spider CaveFrom behind the tree emerged a short-haired girl, holding a wooden shield and peeking cautiously at Athena.


    Her voice was surprisingly loud but trembled with fear. Although facing Athena, her legs were turned to the side, ready to run at any moment.


    "Don''t attack her!!"


    An old man also stepped out from behind the tree. Unlike the girl, he showed no fear towards Athena, instead scrutinizing the moonlit bow in her hand. It was a fine weapon.


    Athena noticed the goblin standing beside Big Bear. She hadn''t expected Big Bear to bring a goblin into the territorial battle. It was likely this goblin that had given her the hair earlier.


    The elderly goblin appeared confident, in contrast to the timid Big Bear. Their roles seemed somewhat reversed.


    Recognizing them, Athena lowered her bow but kept it at her side. She had already received 50 silver coins from them before arriving, indicating they likely had a request.


    "What do you want?" Her tone remained cold, but the atmosphere had eased significantly compared to the previous tense standoff.


    Big Bear blinked, realizing that Athena thought she was there to fulfill a promise. She quickly waved her hands in denial, "No, no, we''re just passing by."


    The moment she spoke, Athena nodded, ready to leave. She had every intention of fulfilling her promises, but she hadn''t expected Big Bear to involve a goblin. She didn''t want to get too entangled with them now.


    The goblins were notorious for their traitorous nature, often attracting monsters, especially during such precarious times.


    "The Goblin race is a renegade, rebellious race from darkness. We betrayed the darkness and chose to follow daylight. There''s not a monster that doesn''t hate us, and darkness is our grave..." ¡ª Uncle Gowther


    However, Big Bear seemed determined not to let her leave and quickly got to the point.


    "Can you show us the way? We''re lost and don''t know how to cross the river..." Even Big Bear found her request absurd, but she and the old man had been wandering here for quite a while, unable to find a way across.


    Athena, who had initially not intended to accept the 50 silver coins Big Bear had sent, took them without hesitation upon hearing this request.


    Congratulations! You''ve received 50 silver coins!


    "I''ll show you a clear path. This place is likely blocked off. You either cross the river directly or catch a couple of giant bees."


    Given the goblin''s characteristics, encountering giant bees shouldn''t be difficult. Besides, the elderly goblin didn''t seem easy to deal with, so catching giant bees shouldn''t pose much danger to them.


    She still couldn''t understand why Big Bear had managed to obtain five goblins, including an old one, from a single silver package.


    Before visiting the goblin city, she hadn''t thought much of it. But after seeing the goblin city, she realized how unusual it was. The skills possessed by the elderly goblin definitely extended beyond logging; the vine wall earlier had been his doing.


    Watching Athena''s retreating figure, Big Bear was stunned, staring at the rushing, depth-unknown river, and recalling the mention of giant bees. She hadn''t encountered a single monster on her way here!


    The system and the giant bees Athena mentioned had never been seen by her!


    In fact, Athena was the first living being she had encountered since entering the territorial battle.


    If Athena knew Big Bear was heading towards the recent battlefield, she would certainly tell her not to bother, as the battle was likely over by now.


    Athena ran along the riverbank, her eyes catching sight of a swarm of black giant bees, this time numbering ten. Among them, one stood out, slightly larger than the rest, likely the leader. They moved with swift precision, their path clear and purposeful.


    Despite their hurried advance, Athena remained vigilant. Her feline companion, Mikmik, twitched its ears and tugged her towards a hiding spot, uneasily curling up in her arms.


    True to her instincts, not long after the first swarm passed, another rushed by, both heading towards the heart of the Dark Forest. This signaled the gathering of swarms, a prelude to war. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Various monsters had already hidden away, sensing the impending danger. Players, alerted by the system, began seeking refuge. The battle between two Lord-level factions was not something the current players could engage in, so everyone was lying low, avoiding conflict.


    For Athena, this was both good and bad news.


    The good news was that she no longer had to worry about being surrounded. The bad news was that she couldn¡¯t act rashly. With monsters and people hiding, increasing her rank would be exceptionally difficult. Killing too many giant bees might trigger a chain reaction, especially since she had already slain members of both the black and yellow bee swarms.


    Since there was nothing she could do, she decided to wait and see how things unfolded.


    Athena and Mikmik found a concealed cave to hide in, only to discover it was already occupied.


    The cave was eerie, filled with the stench of decay. Bones littered the floor, some gleaming, others broken and yellowed. Spider webs crisscrossed the space.


    As they ventured deeper, Athena held her black axe, unfazed by the darkness. To her, it was no different from daylight.


    She cleared the obstructing webs, sticky and treacherous, but managed to carve a path.


    When they finally reached the cave''s end, they found their way blocked.


    A massive spider web sealed the passage completely. Even if they tore through it, a stone wall awaited behind, marking the cave''s terminus. Above them, a gigantic black spider lurked, its green eyes glowing ominously as it watched them.


    The spider moved silently, its many legs allowing it to traverse the cave walls effortlessly. It planned to drop behind Athena and Mikmik, cutting off their escape.


    This was the first time prey had willingly walked into its lair, presenting it with a meal.


    Athena and Mikmik, however, remained unperturbed. As the spider descended, she moved faster, charging back towards it. With the path ahead blocked and the spider in the middle, their only option was to confront it head-on!

 Chapter 74: Armored Spider

    Chapter 74: Armored SpiderThe enormous black spider was a grotesque and terrifying sight. Its body was covered in dense, dark hair, and its head was adorned with three pairs of green eyes that radiated an aura of revulsion and fear at a mere glance.


    This monstrous creature moved slowly, its massive form supported by eight long legs bristling with sharp spikes, which scraped the ground with a faint, unsettling noise.


    Its gaze was fixed intently on Athena, eyes brimming with confusion and shock. How had this small prey managed to close the distance so rapidly and get behind it?


    But prey was prey, no matter how surprising. It could never change its fundamental nature as a target.


    Athena, too, was focused on the fearsome monster before her. Gripping her black abyss axe tightly, she gathered her strength and charged. The giant spider suddenly opened its gaping maw, releasing a putrid stench as it shot a thick, resilient web straight at her.


    Athena deftly dodged to the side as she sprinted, closing the already short distance in an instant. With a powerful swing of her axe, she struck the spider, but only managed to inflict a shallow cut¡ªa mere flesh wound.


    This was the first time the black abyss axe had failed to penetrate an enemy¡¯s defense. Until now, no monster or human had been able to withstand its armor-piercing strikes.


    Yet, Athena remained calm, her mind steady. Even her companion, Mikmik, lay sprawled behind, indifferent to the battle at hand.


    [ Armored Spider ]


    Level: 8


    Strength: 8


    Defense: 21


    Skill: Super Defense


    With each evolution, its defensive capabilities greatly enhance, far exceeding the defense value of its peers!


    Due to its massive size, the Armored Spider¡¯s mobility was limited. Its primary attack method involved entangling its prey with its webs¡ªa tactic that Athena¡¯s agility could easily counter.


    Despite its high defense, its strength wasn¡¯t particularly formidable, not even matching the giant wasps outside. Defense, however high, would eventually fall to relentless attacks.


    The Armored Spider scoffed inwardly at the shallow wound Athena had inflicted. The fierce aura of her initial strike had startled it, but such minor damage could never breach its defenses.


    The path ahead was blocked, and with Athena behind it, the spider had no escape. Yet, in its world, it was Athena who was the trapped prey.


    As the spider launched another volley of webbing, Athena agilely dodged again, landing another powerful blow on the same spot, deepening the wound.


    After repeated strikes, the wound finally began to reveal the spider¡¯s flesh and blood. The area behind Athena was now cluttered with webs, and the ground was a chaotic mess.


    The pain in the spider¡¯s body grew more intense. Though not overwhelming, the wound caused it significant distress. Such pain was a new experience for the Armored Spider, plunging it into a state of panic and fear.


    As time passed, the spider¡¯s anxiety grew. Its instincts as a monster screamed that it had to flee this place immediately!


    Once the thought took hold, the urge to escape became irresistible.


    But the path ahead was blocked by Athena. There was no way out for the Armored Spider. Every charge forward only resulted in Athena landing another blow on its wound.


    The spider¡¯s attacks weren¡¯t entirely ineffective. The sticky webs covering the ground limited Athena''s movements to some extent, but it wasn''t a major hindrance.


    While the Armored Spider grew increasingly uneasy, Athena felt that progress was too slow. With one hand gripping the black abyss axe to inflict another strike on the spider''s wound, she reached into her spatial backpack with her other hand and retrieved a moonlit arrow.


    Taking a deep breath, she focused her energy on her left hand and released the arrow with a sudden burst of force! The moonlit arrow didn''t penetrate the spider''s flesh as expected; instead, it remained lodged in the skin. Yet, this seemingly inconsequential strike was enough. The moonlit energy, irrational as it was, penetrated the spider''s body through the skin, exploiting its power.


    Even in this situation, the moonlit energy proved effective, hastening the progress. Athena didn''t resort to using fireball directly into the spider¡¯s mouth because she had only nine fireballs left, intending to save them for later. For now, she had other means.


    As time passed, the battle''s outcome became clearer. The Armored Spider felt a chilling sensation coursing through its body, freezing its blood in its veins.


    Unable to move, it lay on the ground, awaiting the embrace of death. Even its six eyes ceased to emit their eerie green glow, dimming until it finally fell into eternal slumber upon its own heap of bones...


    Athena sheathed her black abyss axe. Despite the sticky webs covering the ground, she paid them no mind as she approached the massive spiderweb nearby. It was a huge cave, yet there was nowhere to rest.


    Surveying the webs on the ground, an idea struck her. She picked up some bones and, using the webs, fashioned a makeshift chair. The Armored Spider''s corpse couldn¡¯t be dealt with immediately; at least not until the outside quieted down a bit, making it easier to drag it out.


    Fortunately, the spider had been consumed by the moonlit energy, which meant its body could last longer, and there wasn''t much blood to worry about.


    As the colossal creature fell, Mikmik, curious, began circling it, pawing at its head one moment and its legs the next. When his paw was pricked by one of its sharp spikes, he jumped back in surprise.


    Amused, Athena gathered materials from the cave and lit a fire with her lighter. Although they could see clearly without it, the flames brought a sense of comfort and warmth. In the depths of the cave, where ventilation wasn''t an issue, she decided to rest for a while.


    Regional Chat Channel:


    "The center of the Black Forest is swarming with giant wasps. Luckily, I managed to slip away quietly."


    "This feels like the prelude to a war. What are we players supposed to do? The system couldn''t have picked a worse time!"


    "Oh god, how come your place is so eventful? So many incidents in just one day."


    "Doesn''t matter. Let''s find a place to hide and stay out of this mess."


    "A bunch of cowards. I''m going to check it out!"


    "You''re insane. If you want to go, go on your own. No need to tell everyone here. I hope you come back alive, although I doubt you will." sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 75: A Pervert On The Way

    Chapter 75: A Pervert On The WayIn the grand scheme of conflicts, the battle between the two giant bee clans was undeniably more terrifying than any skirmish among players. Individually, these bees were formidable fighters, and collectively, they posed an even greater threat.


    Athena had no knowledge of the location or size of their nests, but judging by the intensity and numbers encountered so far, both sides boasted no fewer than a thousand members.


    In this world, monsters were categorized into sentient and non-sentient beings. Even the non-sentient animals here exhibited intelligence levels surpassing those of terrestrial creatures.


    Prior to their arrival, both clans coexisted peacefully. Yet, on the very day they appeared, both factions found themselves on high alert, ready to engage in battle at a moment''s notice.


    The catalyst for this conflict? Territory. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The black bees Athena observed today had flown over from the opposite side of the river, while the yellow ones, which she had encountered earlier, hailed from the area she currently occupied. They utilized the river as a natural barrier, avoiding interference with each other.


    Such behavior indicated that something of great importance to them had surfaced, compelling them to resort to war.


    Both sides were mobilizing in full force, deploying every available bee. Soon, the forest would be teeming with them, surveilling every corner, leaving no creature''s movement unnoticed.


    A conflict of this magnitude was unlikely to be short-lived, and with most of the day already gone, Athena and her comrades had little over two days left to prepare.


    While this situation favored those with higher rankings, it posed a significant disadvantage for those lower down the ladder.


    Certainly, Athena could take refuge in this cave, using the time to recuperate physically and mentally. However, she was well aware that prolonged hiding was not a wise strategy.


    After all, with their strength, they wouldn''t settle for a mere ranking.


    With each evolution and upgrade of these creatures, did the higher-tier bees like the queens already possess a level of intelligence approaching that of humans?


    Having traversed the central region of the Black Forest previously, she knew it to be devoid of anything significant, save for the treants. Treants, too, possessed a strong sense of territoriality. If these bees had indeed chosen to wage war within its domain, would the treants yield or retaliate?


    What were they fighting for, and what new entity might have emerged in the central region?


    Wait, the treants?


    In Athena''s mind, the image of the treant she had encountered during the battle resurfaced.


    It appeared as a frail, slender sapling, its trunk bare and desiccated. Yet, to her surprise, as it absorbed the surrounding corpses, this inconspicuous sapling gradually underwent a transformation.


    Unlike her initial impression, tender green shoots sprouted from its branches, while the treant''s stature grew increasingly robust.


    The transformation was nothing short of miraculous, yet in this world, it was commonplace enough that the four present barely gave it a second thought. The small, fragile sapling growing by absorbing the life force of other beings was perfectly normal here.


    Though the treant appeared weak and frail, its root system was exceptionally robust and extensive. The roots spread throughout the central region, each thick and imposing, emanating a powerful sense of dominance.


    If things had always been this way, the treant must have killed countless intruders in its territory. Given its previous absorption rate, even the most ordinary monster corpse would spur the growth of new green shoots. Yet, until now, its trunk bore only a few scattered, newly sprouted leaves.


    Athena vividly remembered the sight of the ground fracturing as the treant¡¯s roots emerged. The land remained scarred, unrepaired. However, the area had been flat upon their arrival, and one of the system''s three supply drops during the first wave had been right in the treant¡¯s territory.


    A complex mix of emotions surged within Athena. The giant bees'' true objective might not be anything else, nor should they worry about a confrontation with the treant. Their target was likely the treant itself.


    The system had distributed war supplies, but the real resources in this regional conflict were those already present in the Black Forest, not the system¡¯s packages.


    All three supply drop locations might hold secrets. The treant¡¯s domain was one, but what about the other two? Why was this treant¡¯s domain chosen as a battleground? What made this treant so special?


    As expected, when people have time to think, their minds wander. Athena rubbed her aching temples as she reviewed the regional chat channel.


    ¡°Why are there so many giant bees? It¡¯s a death trap!¡±


    ¡°At first, I could kill one or two, but now there are too many. I¡¯m running for my life!¡±


    ¡°Can we even continue this regional battle? Our rankings are stuck. Monsters and players are hiding, and the only thing we see are these giant bees!¡±


    ¡°Hey, guess what I saw? Giant bees the size of helicopters, and not just one! Are they moving their entire nest?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doomed.¡±


    Everyone was weighed down by a heavy sense of despair. Some felt relieved, at least able to exit the regional battle intact, while others were discontented.


    The lecherous man who had sent flies to track Athena was now desperately seeking a place to hide from the giant bees. He had successfully collected four medals, securing a decent rank, although not in the top ten.


    Frustration gnawed at him; he believed he could still break into the top ten with his skills. But he dared not provoke the strong. The people he had been tracking with his flies were either dead or scattered, beyond his reach.


    In his moment of despair, he activated his sensing ability again. Suddenly, his eyes flew open, and a grin spread across his face, making him tremble with excitement.


    The heavens had not abandoned him!


    He had received a faint signal from one of his flies, though it was weak and intermittent. It indicated the presence of someone and potentially a safe haven.


    Excitedly, he turned and dashed in that direction. After evading another swarm of giant bees, he finally spotted a crevice between two massive boulders, barely noticeable unless closely inspected. It could shelter only one person.


    Perfect!

 Chapter 76: Swarm War Begins!

    Chapter 76: Swarm War Begins!As the man cautiously approached the crevice in the rocks, his suspicions were confirmed. He could faintly see someone lying among the grass-covered stones, and the presence of flies further supported his hunch.


    Opting not to move any closer, he initiated his attack from a distance. Flies materialized from thin air behind him, but these were not ordinary flies¡ªthey were carnivorous. Under his command, they swarmed forward like a plague of locusts.


    However, when they broke through the underbrush, there was nothing there. The man frowned and started to retreat, but it was too late.


    Hidden within the grass was an explosive device that began to fracture upon contact with the flies. The man frantically fled, unable to recall his flies in time. He felt a blinding light envelop him, and then, nothing.


    A sudden, dazzling flash illuminated the entire area, akin to the fall of a star, turning night into day and bringing with it immeasurable devastation.


    Immediately following, a thunderous explosion erupted, deafening in its intensity. The ground was torn apart, and dirt was flung high into the air.


    Simultaneously, the explosion ignited a fierce fire, which rapidly spread. At the epicenter of the blast, the man¡¯s body was left in ruins.


    The massive explosion drew attention from all directions; even those far away could hear the sound or catch glimpses of the light.


    Athena, however, remained oblivious. Inside a cave, she used the massive corpse of a spider to block the entrance, contemplating her next move.


    ¡°What was that explosion just now?¡±


    ¡°That explosion looks familiar. It happened once during the previous skirmish.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s the same one that drew people in during the chaos.¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s the top ten-ranked Big Dream again. Damn, is she fishing for people?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid she¡¯ll come after you if you talk like that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not in the top ten. How would she even find me?¡±


    ¡°Excuse me, how do we get across the river? Besides swimming¡­¡± - Big Bear


    Big Bear was anxiously pacing. After Athena left, she and the elderly goblin had tried numerous methods to cross the river but to no avail. They couldn''t find a way across.


    Every piece of wood or other material they tried sank straight to the bottom. After many attempts, Big Bear gave up on finding something to float across on.


    Desperate, she considered taking the risk to catch the giant bees Athena mentioned. But she hadn¡¯t encountered a single one. She started to suspect the system might have given false information. Wasn¡¯t there supposed to be a bee war happening all around? Why hadn¡¯t she seen any?


    She was about to give up and go back when Garen, sensing a strange disturbance in the Black Forest, suddenly stopped her.


    His expression was a mix of shock, confusion, and, upon closer inspection, a hint of joyful surprise.


    Grabbing Big Bear¡¯s hand, he said with uncharacteristic seriousness, ¡°We must get to the other side of this river, even if it means swimming across.¡±


    Big Bear felt her wrist aching from his grip and didn¡¯t understand why Garen had suddenly changed his mind.


    In truth, it wasn¡¯t that Big Bear couldn¡¯t find the giant bees. Each group that approached her had turned away for various odd reasons, preventing any encounter with her. Similarly, no players or creatures had crossed her path for the same reasons.


    Meanwhile, in a hidden part of the Black Forest, a severely injured black phosphorus snake dragged its weary, battered body to a safe place. It coiled around its master, trying to use its body heat to wake him, though it forgot it was cold-blooded. Still, it had some effect.


    Black Planet awoke from the cold, sitting up abruptly and scanning the surroundings. The image of Athena¡¯s black axe nearly splitting his skull was still vivid in his mind, filling him with lingering fear.


    After calming down, he recalled the scene vividly. Coupled with the system notification on his panel, he realized how he had been saved. Choosing not to publicize the incident, he decided to keep it a secret.


    From his system backpack, he took out two black pills. His heart ached as he looked at the injured black phosphorus snake. He fed one pill to the snake and swallowed the other himself. Though their wounds didn''t heal completely, they were significantly better.


    Big World¡­ How could Black Planet not realize he had been tricked? His jaw clenched in fury, but when he opened his system panel, he saw that the person who had tricked him was no longer in the top ten.


    Could it be because of Big Dream''s intervention? But if Big Dream couldn¡¯t kill him, how did she manage to harm Big World? There must be some unknown method.


    He didn¡¯t harbor much hatred towards Athena, just a bit of resentment since he had initiated the conflict. Given the absolute disparity in power, there was nothing he could do against Big Dream.


    The black phosphorus snake had brought him to a small cave, where a tiger lay dead, killed by the snake.


    The Black Forest seemed to have many large and small caves.


    Though he wanted to explore the area, his injuries hadn''t fully healed, and he dared not act rashly.


    But suddenly, the black phosphorus snake began to tremble, its eyes wide with terror, hissing incessantly. Black Planet tried to calm it, but to no avail. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Meanwhile, Athena was piecing together the events when Mikmik, beside him, took a half-step back, fur bristling. It bared its sharp claws and fangs, eyes narrowing to slits, ready for battle.


    Swarm War, Begin!


    In the sky above the Black Forest, a massive swarm of giant bees hovered. The swarm was divided into two groups: one with a deep, dark hue, and the other shining with bright yellow light.


    Thousands of giant bees flapped their enormous wings in unison, producing a deafening roar like the hum of countless helicopters.


    Their size was astonishing, the smallest being as large as a soccer ball, and the largest comparable to a helicopter. Their robust bodies and sharp stingers, poised to strike, made even the bravest retreat.


    Each bee radiated a formidable presence, asserting dominance over the sky.


    Below them, a tiny sapling stood.

 Chapter 77: Consume Title’s Durability

    Chapter 77: Consume Title¡¯s DurabilityThe tree monster''s leaves emitted a faint green glow, giving it a sacred and wondrous appearance, like a divine tree misplaced in this realm of darkness. Despite devouring numerous lives, the creature''s presence was paradoxically serene. The life it consumed was reduced to blood mist, dissipating into the air, with each drop of blood seeping into the ground to nourish its roots.


    Above the ground, the scene was tranquil and peaceful, but beneath the surface lay a twisted, grotesque network of roots. These roots extended in all directions, covering the underground area and ready to burst forth at any moment. The ground was scarred with numerous cracks, evidence of the roots'' previous eruptions. The tree monster''s territorial instincts seemed to have vanished.


    Countless giant bees swarmed above it, yet the roots below remained still, lying dormant as if it were an ordinary sapling. The black giant bee queen initiated the attack, her wings creating a wind vortex that spiraled towards her opponent like a tornado. Not to be outdone, the yellow giant bee queen''s wings hardened into blades, emitting a cold gleam as she sliced through the wind vortex with massive gusts.


    The clash between the queens signaled the start of the battle. Yellow and black giant bees engaged in a chaotic melee, employing their wings to disrupt, their stingers to shoot, and their bodies to collide. The sky was filled with a frenzy of primitive and brutal combat. They fought with such ferocity that they ignored the chaos around them, driven by a blinding rage.


    As countless bee corpses plummeted to the ground, the roots below eagerly extended, ensnaring the fallen bees. The roots tightened, crushing the bees into a slurry of blood that was quickly absorbed. The energy and nutrients from the dead bees were channeled back into the tree trunk, fueling the sapling''s rapid growth. The tree''s leaves grew greener and more vibrant, and its height soared to one meter, then two meters. Though its growth slowed, a green flower bud suddenly appeared on one of its branches.


    The bud remained tightly closed but emitted a warm, enchanting light that bathed the tree monster in a comforting glow.


    Meanwhile, Athena sat cross-legged in a cave, her mood significantly calmer. The creature, Mikmik, was no longer frightened or agitated. Instead, it bounced around her excitedly, tugging at her clothes and gesturing towards the battlefield of the giant bees with its tiny paws, its eyes gleaming with excitement.


    "There is something round and important where the bees are fighting," Athena murmured as she cradled Mikmik in her hands, trying to understand its message.


    Mikmik meowed joyfully in response.


    Despite Mikmik''s ability to observe the battle stealthily, Athena was hesitant to send it. Mikmik might manage against the ordinary bees, but encountering the queen-level leaders was too risky. If discovered amidst the dense attacks, Mikmik could be exposed and vulnerable.


    Unable to monitor Mikmik''s status in real-time and with no way to intervene immediately, Athena decided against the risky venture. She pondered for a while, gently stroking Mikmik''s twitching ears.


    "Is that item really as important as you say? It might be useful to the giant bees, but will it be of any use to us?"


    "Should we give it a try?"


    Seeing Mikmik sitting upright, nodding earnestly, Athena couldn''t help but smile.


    [ Hunter ]


    Durability: 5050


    Rarity: Rare!


    Acquisition: Dropped by the first kill of the Long-tailed Bear!


    Title Attributes: Strength +10, Defense +5 when battling prey sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    To date, Athena had acquired two titles: "Warrior," for active combatants, and "Hunter." Both titles came with durability, but unlike weapons, this durability was consumable.


    Weapon durability decreased with use and wear, but the durability of her titles could be expended for benefits. The "Hunter" title provided significant and useful attribute boosts, so she had been reluctant to use it. However, her current attributes were at a bottleneck, rendering the "Hunter" title ineffective and in a cooldown state.


    If this venture proved successful, it could significantly enhance her strength, potentially enabling her to break through her current limits and take on new challenges. Despite the title''s value, the immediate opportunity was even more crucial.


    Consume Durability?


    "Yes"


    Durability depleted. Hunter title now usable only once!


    Title attributes changing...


    [ Hunting Grounds ]


    Level: ???


    Acquisition: Title transformation from "Hunter"


    Title Attributes:


    [ Detected that player Athena''s attributes are at a bottleneck. The first attribute is automatically sealed. ]


    Even without the first attribute, and with the title now a one-time use, if the plan succeeded, the investment would be well worth it.


    Donning the "Hunting Grounds" title, Athena picked up Mikmik again, marking him with her tracking seal. A red light flashed briefly. Mikmik showed no visible changes, but Athena''s map now displayed his location and a single teleportation opportunity.


    "Go. When you''re in extreme danger, the marker will flash, and I''ll come to you."

 Chapter 78: The Queen Among Queen Bees

    Chapter 78: The Queen Among Queen BeesThe tree monster seized the opportunity, greedily devouring the corpses of the giant bees with immense satisfaction. It was so pleased that even its trunk began to quiver slightly. The solitary pale green flower on it began to bloom gently.


    The battle in the sky remained fierce. Despite losing so many of their kind, the bees fought on, oblivious and emotionless, driven solely by commands like unfeeling machines.


    When the black and yellow giant bees initially clashed, their queen bees signaled the battle. Now, however, the queen bees only watched each other warily, refraining from any aggressive moves after the initial attack. They were not just cautious but also overseeing the collection of the fallen bees, watching as the corpses were absorbed and as the flower bud gradually bloomed.


    This war was ignited for the sake of the tree monster''s fruit. To nurture this fruit quickly, the bees'' corpses were essential. This was the fastest and most effective method; any delay would result in failure.


    Unlike the ordinary bees, which mindlessly obeyed commands, the queen bees were intelligent and obeyed the queen''s orders for the sake of their species. They were ready to die calmly if the queen commanded.


    The tree monster was a nightmare for all creatures but a gift for the strong. Its fruit not only enhanced various abilities but also had the power to grant intelligence. Each queen bee was the pinnacle of their species'' combat strength. The two bee tribes had maintained a peaceful coexistence for a long time. Whoever obtained the fruit could create another queen, drastically altering the balance of power. If the fruit matured successfully, it could be used by the queen, greatly enhancing the entire hive.


    Mikmik crept along the tree stealthily. From a distance, he could see the sky swarming with giant bees. Corpses continuously fell from the sky and were swiftly ensnared by the tree roots. He had to watch out for falling bodies and sudden changes on the ground, making his journey perilous and nerve-wracking. But he finally reached the central area.


    At first glance, the tree was no longer the withered sapling it once was. It had grown into a towering giant, and the budding fruit on it radiated an extraordinary allure.


    Mikmik punched himself with a cat paw, shaking his head to stay calm. He spotted the two largest bees, one black and one yellow, directly above the tree monster.


    Heeding Athena''s warning, Mikmik knew better than to provoke these formidable foes. He lay quietly for a long time, unnoticed by anyone.


    After observing for a while without gaining any useful information or finding an opportunity, Mikmik realized the two giant bees nearly encircled the tree monster, and many other bees swarmed around.


    Initially, he watched the fight with interest but soon grew bored. However, he noticed that the number of bees didn''t decrease despite the constant fighting. He observed that bees continuously joined the fray from two different directions.


    Mikmik followed the bees into the forest, realizing he didn''t need to chase them frantically. The bees didn''t notice him, and he didn''t have to worry about losing track. If one batch was gone, another would follow.


    Athena monitored Mikmik''s marker. Since entering the Black Forest''s central area, Mikmik hadn''t moved much, occasionally heading in another direction. It confirmed Athena''s belief that a cat''s curiosity was indeed insatiable.


    As Mikmik ventured further, he arrived at the outer edges of the Black Forest. Here, he encountered a cliff. The yellow giant bees disappeared as they crossed the cliff''s edge. Mikmik raised his paw to touch the space ahead and found a transparent barrier.


    Placing his paw forward, he realized there was indeed a path. Passing through the invisible barrier, the cliff vanished, revealing a breathtaking sight.


    Instead of the expected forest, massive beehives loomed on the horizon. They resembled colossal beasts in a dark world, or perhaps even larger giant bees. Majestic and imposing, they radiated an overwhelming pressure that almost suffocated Mikmik.


    Soon, he saw about a hundred yellow giant bees emerge from one of the hives, flying in batches towards the battlefield. Mikmik quietly bypassed them, discovering a distinct yellow hive.


    This hive was significantly smaller compared to the others but was exquisitely crafted with remarkable intricacy. There was only one entrance. As he approached, he noticed four or five queen bees guarding it.


    However, what truly terrified him was the sight beyond the queen bees: the queen herself. She lay on the ground, her massive body seemingly on the verge of bursting. Countless eggs filled her enormous abdomen, and she was the lifeblood of the hive, its most crucial member. Yet, she could barely move.


    Worker bees collected the eggs she laid, and during this vulnerable egg-laying period, the queen bees protected her diligently.


    The queen bees spoke in an unknown language, but Mikmik understood everything, even if Athena couldn''t. Observing the queen''s swollen belly, Mikmik knew the egg-laying process wouldn''t end anytime soon.


    Mikmik exited the hive and rushed back to Athena''s dwelling.


    Despite not being adept at long-distance running, Mikmik pushed himself, pausing only briefly before resuming his sprint. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When he finally reached the cave, he found Athena waiting like a concerned mother awaiting her child''s return.


    Athena sighed in relief upon seeing Mikmik, a bit disheveled but otherwise unscathed. Mikmik, eager to communicate, gestured frantically with his paws, but his urgency made it hard for Athena to understand.


    "Don''t panic. One thing at a time," Athena urged.


    For the first time, Mikmik resented his inability to speak human language or write. His frustration grew as he struggled to convey his message, eventually swatting Athena''s face in exasperation.


    Finally, Athena pieced together Mikmik''s message, "A hive... a heavily pregnant queen... only queen bees guarding... intelligence?"


    "...We should kidnap the queen..."


    It was a crazy idea, but upon reflection, not entirely impossible.

 Chapter 79: Dark Fruit Descent

    Chapter 79: Dark Fruit DescentInfiltration was the best approach. Once the plan was set, Mikmik didn''t even rest, immediately darting back out.


    Smooth sailing brought it swiftly to the transparent boundary, slipping inside.


    It crept forward cautiously, afraid to make a sound. Suddenly, it heard a faint noise and froze, flattening itself on the ground, observing the surroundings.


    The yellow giant bee nest appeared again, hundreds of bees swarming. Despite its enormous size, Mikmik doubted it could accommodate so many giant bees.


    As it approached closer, Mikmik finally saw the inside of the nest: vast yet hideous, emitting a foul stench.


    Worker bees were bringing batches of eggs from the queen bee, arranging them meticulously. Rotting bodies on the ground served as nutrients, nurturing these yellow giant bees.


    Both sides of giant bees thrived on corpses as nourishment. Mikmik removed three explosive balls from Athena''s back and buried one beneath.


    Heading towards the main nest, the four queen bees remained inside guarding, not moving their steps, but they would soon depart.


    Mikmik circled the nest, strategically placing the explosive balls in corners, boldly positioning one right next to the queen bee.


    On the other side, Athena cautiously exited the cave, vigilant of her surroundings, never halting, heading towards the central area of the Black Forest.


    Her sole purpose here was to lure more giant bees, ensuring the chaos escalated.


    Though the players who came here valued their lives, they were also a group of madmen who, when necessary, wouldn''t hesitate to risk their lives.


    Along the way, they encountered giant bees, but these bees now only followed orders, ignoring Athena. They bypassed her directly, heading to the battlefield where the fight was much more critical than Athena''s. This surprised her, who was prepared for battle.


    However, no fight was a smoother path to the scene.


    She moved like a hunting cheetah, agilely maneuvering and leaping between tree trunks, simultaneously sprinting.


    Meanwhile, some large bees accompanied her, but they bore no hostility towards her, perhaps incapable of independent thought, merely obeying commands.


    Finally, she reached the central area of the Black Forest. As she attempted another step forward, she realized she couldn''t proceed any further, a strong sense of danger enveloping her.


    Looking up, she saw the sky above dominated by countless giant bees. They circled and battled, forming an overwhelming scene that blocked out the sky, with corpses occasionally falling like scattered meteors from above.


    Faced with such a spectacle, her heart raced uncontrollably. These giant bees were fighting fiercely over treasures, and the victorious side would gain the right to harvest the fruits. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Stepping in further, she was certain a giant bee would swoop down and strike her first.


    Even from a distance, Athena noticed the distinctly unique tree. It stood amidst a dense forest, particularly eye-catching.


    The branches of this tree were unusually lush and towering, casting a dense shade that seemed to blot out the sky. If not for the complex and massive root system below, Athena wouldn''t have recognized it as the small sapling it once was.


    What was even more peculiar was the faint glow emanating from the entire tree, giving it an aura of mystery and awe.


    However, the most eye-catching feature of the tree was the withered flowers on its crown, from which sprouted a single emerald green fruit. The fruit was plump, brilliantly colored, translucent, and exuded a tempting luster.


    Two enormous giant bees hovered around it, seeming like guardians of the fruit. Whenever treasures appeared, they would inevitably incite a bloody struggle.


    Cold sweat trickled down Athena''s forehead. She involuntarily swallowed, her gaze fixed firmly on the verdant fruit ahead, unable to look away, so enticing it was.


    Above her head were countless monsters. The tree, which bore fruit, was originally a bizarre creature. Beside it stood two immensely powerful creatures on guard. Just thinking about breaking in made Athena''s adrenaline surge.


    She must have been crazy to do something like this...


    Arrived at the central area, unlocking event ''Dark Fruit Descent''![ Dark Fruit Descent ]


    At specific times each year, boundless darkness would bring mysterious gifts, granting exclusive favor to the Black Forest. Any young sapling had the potential to become the chosen one by destiny, transforming into a fearsome tree creature!


    These tree creatures possessed unimaginable abilities, rapidly growing and blooming with brilliant flowers and bearing dark fruits through blood and nourishment. When they reached a critical point of growth, they became the coveted treasure of all monsters.


    Their growth requirements demanded an astonishing amount of blood as food, leaving behind only rotten fruits amid the corpses.


    Dark Fruit


    Category: Gift


    Level ??


    Description: Consuming it grants rebirth.


    Facing the temptation of the dark fruit, Athena was more concerned about what she could compete for.


    Tree Monster Leaves


    Category: Gift


    Level ??


    Description: Consuming enhances mental strength; edible even after breaking through.


    Tree Monster Skin


    Gift Category


    Level ??


    Description: Consuming enhances ''luck''!!


    Just the leaves and skin of the tree monster were treasures that Athena and her fellow players couldn''t touch at their current level, not to mention what lay beyond¡ªthe dark fruit.


    Good things were meant to be shared among everyone; it was impossible for anyone not to be tempted.


    [ Regional Chat Channel ]


    "Help! I dare not venture out, I don''t want to die as soon as I step outside!"


    "Do we really have to hide in here for the remaining two days? This is so frustrating!"


    "In fact, it''s not all bad..."


    - "Sharing data on Tree Monster Leaves."


    - "Sharing data on Tree Monster Skin."


    - "Sharing data on Dark Fruit."


    "Come out quickly! As long as you don''t enter the central area, those giant bees won''t attack you."


    "Are you guys not tempted at all?"


    There was a brief silence in the chat channel, followed by a frenzy of messages. Even amid the flood of messages, Athena''s data sharing was preserved due to its uniqueness.


    "Haha, no one would really go, right?"


    "Are they insane? Where did this data come from? Is it real? Leaves and skin of just one tree?"


    "We definitely can''t beat them. Everyone, stay put and don''t rush out. Don''t be swayed! Don''t go, every life saved of region 4 counts!"


    "Would you go? I certainly won''t. This guy don''t know the danger! Is he suicidal? So many giant bees!"

 Chapter 80: Fight!

    Chapter 80: Fight!Athena paid no further attention to the chatter of those around her. She had done what she needed to do, everything within her power.


    Activating her system panel, she inspected the markers on the map. It seemed Mikmik over there had likely completed his task and wasn''t moving anymore.


    As for the other purple markers, they were slowly converging towards this location. Of course, there were also two rushing towards her like mad.


    The Dark Fruit Descent... While many still didn''t grasp the concept, some were already advancing towards that goal. Now presented with an opportunity to break through, they could no longer hold back.


    Whether it was seizing the leaves or challenging the swarms or other challenges that overlaps over the other, all were hellishly difficult. Yet, there was still hope in attempting to wrest control over the contested area.


    Watching the approaching light spots, Athena knew it was time to act.


    Taking a deep breath, she calmly affixed an explosive bomb to her Moonlight Bow. Her heart raced, yet her hands remained steady and precise as she aimed and shot into the air.


    Tied to it was something, causing the Moonlight Arrow to not fly too high and with less accuracy, but it was sufficient.


    The explosion thundered through the skies, smoke billowing. The giant bees were startled by the sudden blast; some continued unaware in their battles and perished in the explosion. Others, however, aimed their stingers at Athena. They wouldn''t tolerate provocation, especially at such a critical moment.


    Two bee queens noticed the commotion but hadn''t grasped the severity of the situation, still focused on guarding the tree monster.


    In the brief chaos, Athena took the opportunity to escape, changing her position while her arrows never ceased.


    With the first success and measurement, she bound more and more things. Launching them one after another with her flame enhancers and explosive balls.


    Only seeing continuous explosions in the sky, rolling thick smoke surged incessantly, seeming to envelop the entire world. The raging fire burned fiercely, as if to devour everything, sparks flying like meteorites crashing to the ground, accompanied by the bodies of giant bees.


    In the sky, it was as if a giant fireworks display had bloomed, yet this once beautiful sight was now anything but beautiful, instilling only fear and despair.


    The onslaught of explosions hastened the death of these giant bees, their bodies crashing to the ground, absorbed by the tree monster, accelerating its growth.


    The already chaotic scene grew even more chaotic. Even outside the area, she had provoked anger, becoming a target for everyone. The myriad giant bees descended like raindrops upon her.


    Purple light spots and scattered others had already arrived nearby, witnessing the commotion here, yet no one moved. Everyone awaited their chance yet cautious, watching who would withstand the test first.


    The giant bees were thoroughly enraged, many diverting their paths to attack Athena, no longer focused solely on the battle but madly intent on sweeping through this entire forest!


    The two bee queens noticed but dared not fly over to attack Athena, afraid of losing the advantage to each other.


    She gasped for breath, looking back at the devastated area. Had she succeeded? She wasn''t sure.


    Gripping her weapon tightly, Athena remained resolute.


    Trigger Event: Giant Bee Queen Summoning!


    She smiled because she had succeeded. Watching the swarm of giant bees approaching, she chose not to engage them in battle. Instead, leveraging the terrain, she dodged and dashed back towards the light spots. The bees dispersed as expected whenever they encountered people.


    Along Athena''s escape route, she could always hear the curses directed at her from those behind.


    Unfortunately, the more curses there were now, the happier she felt. It proved that the enemy forces were increasingly scattered, merely a drop in the ocean. All she needed to do was buy time.


    Facing the dense attacks, Athena couldn''t afford to relax. She executed various intricate, high-intensity maneuvers to evade the flying stingers and the bees'' impacts.


    But battles were inevitable. Her body was already stained with the blood of giant bees, mixed with her own, making it hard to distinguish.


    She encountered familiar faces, the Witch Cloak and the Magic King. They recognized Athena at a glance, shocked that she had unleashed explosive balls, a move they hadn''t seen her use before. They hadn''t expected Athena to be the instigator of all this chaos.


    Athena was certain of their strength, comparable to the top ten contenders, yet they hadn''t entered that elite rank for some reason.


    Their eyes widened, pupils shrinking as they watched the thousands of troops behind Athena turn and flee. Still, they saw the eerie smile on Athena''s face and wished they could kill her right then, but they too turned and ran. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sometimes, you don''t need to outrun others; you just need to outrun your teammates.


    Athena pushed off a tree trunk with all her might, unexpectedly rebounding in front of the two.


    She could almost see veins bulging on their faces, but it was only temporary.


    "Not bad speed. You might survive for a while," the Witch Cloak''s pretty face turned sinister and terrifying, barely paying attention to the giant bees behind while preparing to strike Athena.


    A white light, completely different from the explosive glow, flashed, and Athena disappeared on the spot, leaving the two to sprint for their lives.


    Joining in their mad dash were players who had originally come just to observe.


    Thus, what started as a chaotic melee between two factions became a three-way battle. More people were drawn in.


    Instantly teleporting to the Giant Bee Nest, leaving behind the two bee queens who had lost their ability to fly due to the explosions, as the explosive balls were directly aimed at the queen, but they used their bodies to block the explosion in such a confined space.


    The queen was at a critical moment of reproduction and unable to fight. Of the four queen bees that had originally stayed behind, two had just been summoned out, leaving only these two.


    They remained vigilant, but nothing changed until Athena was instantaneously teleported over. In the instant the light flashed, the two queen bees rushed forward.


    But what awaited them were not people, but two explosive balls thrown out from space, forcing the two queens to retreat and block in front of the queen.


    And Athena, battered and bloody, emerged from the teleportation array. Mikmik picked a good time; the giant bees were still hatching, and the queen was in labor.


    Not out of arrogance, but because on this territory, they held absolute authority. Whenever they moved, other creatures automatically retreated, no one dared to challenge their authority.


    Moreover, to directly invade the main nest?

 Chapter 81: A Fragile Truce

    Chapter 81: A Fragile TruceAthena Ravencroft gripped her black abyss axe tightly. Though the two giant bees had been blasted back, they hadn''t lost their combat capabilities. Their ferocity remained undiminished, far beyond her ability to handle alone.


    The two queen bees, eyes filled with suspicion, watched her intently, their attention fixed on the remaining three explosive orbs in her left hand. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Athena signaled for Mikmik to step forward.


    In an instant, Mikmik appeared beside the queen bee, whose body trembled slightly, likely due to the sensitivity brought on by laying eggs. The two queen bees¡¯ auras surged to an intimidating peak, resembling demons clawing their way out of hell.


    Mikmik, unfazed, casually rolled one of the explosive orbs with his forepaw. His piercing gaze, blood-red eyes filled with bloodlust, locked onto Athena. The killing intent emanating from him was overwhelming, like waves crashing against her, promising to tear her to pieces if he so wished.


    Athena felt a weight in her heart but didn''t let it show. Instead, she smiled and raised her hands in a gesture of surrender. "Let''s talk."


    The black giant bees weren''t swayed by her gesture, though they didn''t act rashly. They knew they had failed in their duty by allowing her to infiltrate.


    They emitted a series of sounds that Athena couldn''t comprehend. Gradually, the sounds shifted, becoming more human-like, until finally, they spoke in a broken but understandable human language.


    "Human¡­ what do you want?"


    "Hurry¡­ have that creature move away from the queen. If anything happens to her, you die too!"


    Listening to their halting words, Athena remained motionless, careful not to push them any further.


    "You want the dark fruit, while I only need some leaves and bark from the tree. I think we can negotiate. Are you sure you won''t reconsider?" Athena¡¯s smile remained, though she knew that she and Mikmik could teleport back to their previous location. However, a battle had likely erupted between the players and the giant bees, making both options dangerous. Besides, she had no idea what might happen before they could teleport away.


    Initially, her target had been the queen bee, hoping to use her as leverage to claim the fruit. But once she arrived, she realized it was beyond her grasp, something she couldn''t possess or handle.


    Thus, she decided to settle for leaves and bark, items of no value to the giant bees. Threatening the queen¡¯s safety would surely make them agree.


    "You want the tree''s leaves and bark?" Their speech was now clearer, free from the initial stuttering.


    They couldn''t understand why a human would want such useless items. To them, all the tree¡¯s valuable essence was concentrated in the fruit, which held the power to renew their lives and alter their species'' fate.


    "Yes, I don''t want to harm your queen. Otherwise, I wouldn''t make it out of this forest alive."


    "I''ll stay here. If anything happens to your queen, you can retaliate immediately."


    The murderous gleam in the queen bee''s eyes didn''t diminish. Athena had infiltrated their nest without them noticing, and Mikmik was an enigma.


    "Why should we trust you?"


    Athena didn¡¯t respond. Instead, she raised her hand, showing the explosive orb and three additional fire enhancers. Her smile vanished, replaced by a cold, stern expression.


    "No tricks. We have enough here to destroy us all."


    "You know I can teleport. If I cause an explosion here, I can disappear instantly." Athena¡¯s face, which had been warm and friendly, turned icy. Her gaze at the two queen bees was filled with menace and indifference. Her demeanor was that of a complete madwoman, making her threats all the more real.


    The second queen bee, who had been silent, ceased her movements. Though Athena claimed to seek negotiations, it was a thinly veiled threat. They knew nothing of her other capabilities, but she had already infiltrated their nest.


    "Alright," the queen bee finally relented, the venom in her voice still evident. "You get your leaves and bark. But if you double-cross us, we''ll make sure you pay with your life."


    With a slight nod, Athena lowered her hands, signaling Mikmik to step back from the queen. "I hope we can both walk away from this. Your queen''s safety is my priority too."


    The tension in the air remained thick, but a fragile agreement had been reached. Athena knew the danger wasn''t over, but she had managed to negotiate her way out of immediate peril. Now, it was a matter of collecting what she needed and leaving before anything could go wrong.


    "Fine, we''ll give you the leaves and bark. Now, leave!"


    Athena lowered her hand but did not retreat. "No need to worry. I''ll stay here as a guarantee. It should make you feel more secure, right?"


    The atmosphere was tense and eerie. The queen bee lay weakly on the ground while Mikmik continued to play with the explosive orb. After a sharp glance from Athena, he finally settled down. The two queen bees watched Mikmik¡¯s actions nervously, their eyes flickering with anxiety. Athena stood on one side of the hive, watching them closely.


    She wasn¡¯t in a hurry. Even though the fruit had already started to grow, its slow maturation meant that more would be needed later.


    Finally, one of the queen bees broke the silence. "We need to send a message to the bee guards by the tree. Otherwise, we can''t get what you need."


    "Yes, and we cannot harm the tree before the fruit matures. It would slow down its growth." Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena leaned against the hive, listening to the queen bees. This was to be expected; now was not the right time.


    "Of course, take your time. I¡¯ll wait here patiently."


    Silence descended once again. Though the deal had been struck, neither side lowered their guard. The tension was palpable, like a tightly wound string ready to snap at any moment.


    After a long pause, Athena spoke first. "Are there only two lord-level units in the Black Forest?"


    It didn¡¯t make sense. The Black Forest, designated as their main battlefield by the system, a place favored by darkness, surely housed more than just lord-level units. If the dark fruit was as important and miraculous as they said, it would definitely attract other creatures.


    The black giant bees and yellow giant bees might be the only lord-level factions, but there had to be other powerful monsters lurking. These creatures, unable to nourish the tree with their flesh and blood, were likely waiting for the fruit to mature. Once it did, they would certainly emerge to seize it.


    "Ridiculous!" one of the queen bees spat, clearly annoyed.


    The other queen bee, calmer, regarded Athena silently. The anger in its eyes faded, replaced by the haughty demeanor of a true monarch.


    "Of course not. This place is much larger than you can imagine."


    As expected, they had only explored a small fraction of the Black Forest. Other areas, likely hidden behind barriers like the hive, awaited their discovery.

 Chapter 82: The Dark Fruit’s Secret

    Chapter 82: The Dark Fruit¡¯s SecretAs the system indicated, the growth of the Dark Fruit was not a matter of decades or centuries but an annual event. Each year presented an opportunity for the fruit to mature. With the rapid reproductive rate of the Giant Bees, they could easily catalyze the fruit over time without resorting to such extreme measures.


    This urgency might reflect their impatience, yet even if the two swarms divided the fruit equally, over time, the numbers would be considerable. However, despite their efforts, the Giant Bees only had about five queens at most, and none of the queens had evolved yet.


    This situation was highly unreasonable, suggesting that the successfully ripened Dark Fruits rarely fell into their hands. Other entities were competing with them, powerful enough to challenge the entire bee swarm.


    Despite knowing they were toiling for others, the bees had no choice but to seize every opportunity.


    Athena now needed only to wait. Once the war concluded, the monsters would fight over the Dark Fruit, but the leaves and bark of the tree were useless to them. As long as the Giant Bees handed over these parts to her afterward, she would leave this cursed place as soon as possible.


    She dared not touch the queens, knowing it would drive the bees into a frenzy, triggering catastrophic consequences. The bee queens were evidently aware of this, allowing them to coexist with her up to this point.


    No one wanted to take such a risk.


    The Black Forest was vast and rich in resources. If she could gather a bit more to take back, she would be well rewarded.


    Curiosity killed the cat, and greed killed humans.


    Ultimately, Athena chose not to overstep her bounds. Getting the Giant Bees to help her acquire the leaves and bark was already a great outcome.


    While others were just starting, she was already at the finish line.


    "You are visitors from the Third World. You are easily recognizable; no one here does not know who you are."


    "Is that a special weapon in your hand? You always seem to have these strange items..."


    To Athena''s surprise, the bee queen across from her began to chat, but she knew it wanted more than idle conversation, so she remained vigilant. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "That thing was made by you, right? It still carries your aura."


    Ha, maybe she was crazy, but these monsters of the darkness, these Giant Bees, were no less insane. She gradually guessed the queen''s intentions.


    "Yes," she confirmed.


    "Can you make it here? We can find the materials for you."


    Just as Athena suspected.


    "You were asking if there are other lord-level creatures here? Yes, many."


    "Some are even stronger than us, but I think the item in your hand... might be very useful."


    The bee queen¡¯s red eyes scrutinized the fireball in Athena¡¯s hand. Though it appeared to be an ordinary clump of soil, its eyes could see the terrifying energy collisions within. The recent explosions across the land, observed through their worker bees, had given them a clear understanding of the power held within this unassuming sphere.


    Despite knowing its power, they believed that the human might not use it to its full potential. However, they could push its destructive capacity even further.


    ¡°Of course, I can make it for you. In return, I expect the leaves and bark as we discussed earlier,¡± Athena replied, awaiting their answer.


    The yellow bees had been locked in a long struggle with the black bees, and now they were losing ground. The black bees had gained strength from the last skirmish, while the yellow bees faced the threat of annihilation by this rival swarm. Moreover, the Black Forest housed other menacing creatures.


    This time, they needed a breakthrough. The arrival of someone from the Third World, like Athena, presented a promising opportunity.


    Even if the collaboration failed, it would still leave both sides weakened. This was no worse than their current predicament.


    Partnering with Athena essentially meant partnering with all the players who ventured here, with her as their representative.


    ¡°Giant bee honey can enhance your body, and our stingers are perfect material for your weapons. You can have as much as you need.¡±


    ¡°But with your current skill level, your creations are incomplete. You need practice, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Their analysis was spot-on, laying bare the stakes involved. Athena wasn¡¯t annoyed because they were right.


    The potential gains from this venture were beyond her initial expectations and control. Yet, she wasn¡¯t deterred; she had been prepared to risk everything from the moment she arrived.


    This wasn¡¯t recklessness; if she had to label it, she¡¯d call it ambition.


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    Those two words, uttered with a slight tremor in her voice, encapsulated everything. It wasn¡¯t fear but joy and a thrill she couldn¡¯t quite describe.


    This was negotiating with tigers.


    ¡°I¡¯ll conduct my experiments elsewhere. They¡¯re unstable and might endanger your queens. However, Mikmik will stay here. My life is expendable, but your queens are crucial, aren¡¯t they?¡±


    Just in case they tried to surround and threaten Mikmik when she left.


    The yellow bees weren¡¯t foolish. For them, Athena¡¯s status as someone from the Third World wasn¡¯t important. What mattered was their queens. If a queen was injured, even a victory would be meaningless.


    Behind her, the queen, who had been weak and silent like a puppet, slowly opened her eyes. They were red, like the most dazzling rubies in the world, mesmerizing and radiating an extraordinary power.


    It wasn¡¯t coercion or temptation but an innate desire to submit.


    Unlike the bee queen¡¯s voice, the queen¡¯s was ethereal and melancholic.


    ¡°Human of the Third World, let us make a pact.¡±


    The Queen had been listening all along. Though she was weak and immobile, she was still the true ruler of the hive, commanding all the yellow bees.


    Her silence had already given tacit approval to the bee queen¡¯s actions.

 Chapter 83: The Contract Between A Human And The Queen Of Yellow Bees

    Chapter 83: The Contract Between A Human And The Queen Of Yellow BeesIt was uncertain if the contract was made of parchment, but even in the depths of the Black Forest, the monsters could use a system of contracts.


    Under Athena''s watchful gaze, the Queen somehow produced a piece of parchment out of thin air. This parchment was slightly different from the one Athena had seized from a lost soul. It looked more ancient and venerable, exuding an aura of authority and inviolability.


    A faint black mist surrounded the parchment, giving it an ominous appearance.


    The parchment floated towards Athena, who quickly stepped aside to avoid it. Her eyes were sharp, warning the Queen not to make any rash moves. This thing clearly didn''t seem right.


    "Don''t be afraid; it''s just an ordinary contract."


    The Queen''s ruby-red eyes remained calm, as still as water without a single ripple.


    Warning!


    Mental strength assessment in progress...


    Assessment successful


    "Wait!"


    Athena put away her Black Abyss Axe and took out her Moonlight Bow, assuming a shooting stance.


    The moment Athena drew her Moonlight Bow, the two Queen Bee Guards tensed their muscles, ready to rush and engage her. However, with the Queen behind them, they could only stand protectively in front of her, issuing warning sounds to Athena.


    But no matter how fast they were, the explosion would come first.


    "I won''t harm your Queen, but I do want some compensation."


    Acting on impulse wouldn¡¯t solve anything.


    "A single arrow from me won''t kill you. Since your Queen tried to deceive me, I''ll shoot one arrow in return. Fair trade."


    The moment the mental strength assessment failed, the Queen suffered a backlash. Her previously wide-open eyes now narrowed. They had indeed hoped to leverage Athena and the other players'' abilities, but controlling them would have been even better.


    What they hadn''t anticipated was that Athena''s mental strength far exceeded their expectations.


    Enhancing mental strength was incredibly difficult, and they had underestimated her.


    Athena wasn''t foolish enough to harm the Queen, but she also didn''t intend to do nothing. If the Queen thought she was easy to manipulate, they would only become more audacious.


    "Wait!" The Queen''s ethereal and melancholic voice now carried a hint of urgency.


    Successfully halting Athena''s actions, she awaited the Queen''s next words.


    "This ordinary parchment can be very useful to you. We can throw in some extras as an apology for my rashness."


    Having gained an advantage, Athena retracted her bow and arrow. Although she understood the Queen''s probing and counterattacks, it didn''t mean she would tolerate such behavior. Gaining something was necessary, but she also needed to maintain their cooperative relationship without making it too hostile.


    "Is the contract you mentioned real?" After this minor interlude, Athena began to doubt the authenticity of the contract ritual the Queen mentioned.


    "Yes, but it''s somewhat different from a normal parchment contract. It is a contract verified by your Third World. This type of contract offers more security and is harder, if not impossible, to break compared to a parchment contract."


    A contract verified by the Third World? So, parchment contracts were unverified contracts native to this world? Contracts verified by the Third World were more secure than parchment ones!


    Athena was deeply curious. She looked at the Queen and asked, "How do we formalize the contract?"


    "It''s simple. Just write the terms on your Third World contract paper." The Queen finished speaking and quietly waited for Athena''s response.


    The Queen Bees'' two guards stood silently by her side, though their eyes burned with a desire to tear Athena apart.


    As the Queen waited for Athena to act, there was only silence. She had no idea where to obtain this "Third World" contract paper.


    Sensing her dilemma, the Queen reluctantly provided the contract paper herself. Only by signing a contract notarized by the Third World could both parties feel secure, preventing the situation from becoming overly tense.


    A blank scroll, adorned with intricate patterns, materialized beside the Queen. When it appeared, Athena received a system notification. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [System Contract Paper]


    Athena grabbed the blank scroll from mid-air and inspected it. Both sides were identical, and without the system''s introduction, it would seem like an ordinary scroll.


    However, she didn''t have a pen. She considered asking the Queen for one, thinking it wouldn''t hurt to request another item.


    As she pondered this, the blank scroll began to display her thoughts. This change startled her. It seemed the scroll didn''t need writing; the contract terms would appear as long as she thought about them.


    She formulated the contract terms in her mind, and they successfully appeared on the contract paper. While the content could be mentally inputted, signing it required physically placing her finger on the signature line.


    Athena signed her name first and then handed the scroll to the Queen, who reviewed the contents.


    [ Third World Contract ]


    The Queen read the terms carefully, then shook her head at Athena.


    "100 grams is too much. We can only promise to do our best."


    Athena wasn''t surprised by this and ultimately agreed to the Queen''s modification, reducing it to a minimum of 10 grams. Though valuable, these materials were also dangerous to obtain, as Tree Monsters were formidable adversaries.


    Athena wasn''t stupid, without the agreement between the two parties, the contract paper is useless.


    Initially, she wanted to set the punishment as death, but the system indicated that the notarization strength wasn''t sufficient or perhaps ''unenforceable'', so it defaulted to a 50-point reduction in all attributes.

 Chapter 84: The Pact with the Hive Queen

    Chapter 84: The Pact with the Hive QueenStaring at the modified contract, the Hive Queen remained silent. Unlike Athena, it did not sign the agreement with a signature. Instead, the Hive Queen pressed its forehead against the contract paper, and the contract automatically took effect.


    The intricate patterns on the unfolded contract paper began to glow gradually. The entire sheet then rolled itself up and flew back to Athena, directly entering her system backpack.


    Contract Authentication in Progress...


    Authentication Successful ¨C Contract Now Effective


    Although neither Athena nor the Hive Queen felt any different, the contract had indeed become fully effective. Should either party breach the terms, they would face the consequences.


    The system, capable of countering both darkness and daylight, certified the contract, ensuring that neither party could escape its bindings¡ªat least, not currently.


    With the contract now in effect, Athena felt obligated to act. She collected her explosive balls, flame enhancers, and the black abyss axe, placing them all in her backpack. She then called Mikmik back and took the explosive ball beside the Hive Queen.


    Under the watchful eyes of all present, Mikmik scurried to the hatching nest and retrieved another explosive ball, causing the two Bee Queens to have complex emotions.


    After storing all these dangerous items in her space backpack, Mikmik leaped into Athena¡¯s arms, comfortably nestling there.


    Athena didn¡¯t remain idle either, assisting Mikmik by grooming its fur.


    At this moment, the Hive Queen resumed its production, with worker bees continuously transporting the eggs away. Athena watched the process with a furrowed brow but said nothing.


    ¡°Agasi, take her to the rear. Deploy one of the units to prepare the materials she needs.¡±


    Agasi, the more aggressive of the two remaining Bee Queens, was visibly displeased. However, the contract applied to the entire yellow giant bee clan, leaving it no choice. They had gambled with the safety of their entire clan.


    The balance of power had shifted. Initially, the black giant bee clan was evenly matched with them, but in recent years, the black bees had changed tactics, allying with other monsters. The dark fruit was no longer exclusive to any one group, being divided and contested among many. The yellow giant bee clan realized too late and now found no potential allies.


    The Hive Queen pondered, wondering if this alliance was a desperate move. Nevertheless, their only option was to unite with these Third World beings.


    For them, the most important thing was not individual survival, but the continuity of their hive.


    As Athena was about to leave, the Hive Queen fixed its gaze on her and said, ¡°If possible, tell your companions that we are open to friendly trade.¡± S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Agasi¡¯s wings had healed, and it flew impatiently, occasionally darting ahead. But seeing Athena¡¯s slow, deliberate pace as she carried Mikmik, it had to stop and wait for her.


    After another pause, Agasi turned, glaring at Athena with evident frustration.


    This human was doing it on purpose. Clearly, she could walk faster, yet she chose this leisurely pace. However, remembering the Hive Queen¡¯s instructions, Agasi had to comply.


    As she walked, Athena observed the surroundings. The vast expanse of the hive seemed endless, and the massive honeycombs felt oppressive.


    Given the current wartime state, almost all the yellow giant bees were out, leaving only a few football-sized ones occasionally flying by.


    After walking for some distance, they finally arrived in front of a jet-black hive. Agasi led Athena inside. Despite being a hive, the structure had a metallic sheen and seemed indestructible.


    The floor was equally smooth, resembling more a spacious military fortress than a hive.


    Once inside, Athena found it completely empty¡ªa giant hollow shell.


    ¡°You¡¯ll conduct your experiments here,¡± Agasi told her. ¡°Tell me what materials you need, and I¡¯ll have them delivered. You must experiment inside; the outside can¡¯t withstand your explosions!¡±


    After listing the required materials to Agasi and having them confirmed repeatedly, Agasi flew off to await the newly hatched giant bees that would help Athena gather the materials.


    Athena wasn¡¯t worried about them knowing the components. She had included a few rare materials she had seen in Mu¡¯s collection. If they found them, great; if not, it didn¡¯t matter.


    Even with the complete materials, knowing the proportions was essential. And even with the right proportions, the necessary technique and experience were crucial. Each step was as challenging as ascending to the heavens. The yellow giant bee clan could never replicate her work.


    As Agasi went to fetch the materials, Athena carefully examined her surroundings. The walls bore scratch marks, indicating that this was likely the training ground for the bees.


    Surprisingly, it seemed quite user-friendly.


    For now, Athena felt safe and secure. She didn¡¯t need to worry about her safety, and soon the bees would bring her the materials she needed.


    While crafting explosive bombs, she could not only stockpile weapons but also improve her crafting skills, perhaps even surpassing her current quality.


    Meanwhile, others were still engaged in a fierce battle on the battlefield. The black and yellow giant bee clans had a temporary truce, focusing on eliminating the players before resolving their internal conflicts.


    The sky was filled with black and yellow bees. Instead of congregating in the central area, they spread out, pursuing players across various areas.


    The players, naturally, avoided direct confrontation, scattering and fleeing in all directions. Not all bees chased them; most remained in the central area, fighting to provide nourishment for the tree monster there.


    However, the situation changed dramatically. The yellow giant bees that had been pursuing the players suddenly ceased their attacks and flew back to the central area, leaving only the black giant bees in pursuit.


    The Black Giant Bee King was displeased and somewhat puzzled. To prevent the yellow giant bees from gaining the upper hand in the central area, it also recalled its forces, leaving no time to deal with the players.


    Although the players didn¡¯t understand the reason, they breathed a sigh of relief, eager to escape despite their injuries.


    Just then, the system issued a prompt:


    Notice: A player has joined the Yellow Giant Bee faction!


    Faction Activation in Progress!


    You may now join the Yellow Giant Bee faction!

 Chapter 85: Contribution Shop

    Chapter 85: Contribution ShopThe concept of factions was something players had never anticipated. What was even more unexpected to them was that players had already joined the Yellow Giant Bee faction.


    It was highly likely that it was because someone else had been the first to join the Yellow Giant Bee faction. Hence, only now could they join this faction as well.


    This explained why the giant bees that had been attacking them just moments ago had all retreated to the central area.


    This was extremely positive news for everyone present. However, despite the giant bees having retreated to the central area, none of the players had any desire to hide back there again. They stayed where they were, concealing themselves and healing their wounds, yet none of them wished to leave.


    Although they were pursued by the bees, the damage inflicted upon this group was minimal, with the death toll not even exceeding a handful.


    Those who dared to come here were all somewhat skilled.


    When the system prompt sounded, many people didn''t hesitate; they chose to join the Yellow Giant Bee faction. Of course, some hesitated, but after considering it, they agreed and joined the Yellow Giant Bee faction.


    For now, it seemed their only option for joining was the Yellow Giant Bee faction. Once they joined, the Yellow Giant Bee faction would be friendly towards them, ensuring they wouldn''t be attacked.


    Currently, the only available faction to join was indeed the Yellow Giant Bee faction. Without joining, players would have to face all monsters, but by joining, they would ally with the Yellow Bees against other monsters.


    Most importantly, if they refused, they didn''t know if those bees would attack them again.


    Within this empty hive, Athena pondered what the Hive Queen had just said about recruiting players. For a moment, she didn''t know how to approach it. Should she speak directly in the regional chat channel?


    How could she ensure the basic trust between the Yellow Giant Bee tribe and the players? How could she make other players believe what she said was true?


    She tried to draft an announcement to test the waters in the regional chat channel, but before she could send it, the system prompted her.


    Big Dream, congratulations! You''ve signed a contract with the Yellow Giant Bee tribe!


    The Hive Queen of the Yellow Giant Bee tribe has assigned a connecting mission to you, opening the faction to all players. Will you?


    "Yes"


    Faction activation in progress!


    Currently joinable faction: Yellow Giant Bee tribe!


    Faction activated; you have been automatically joined in the Yellow Giant Bee faction!


    At the same time they received the system prompt, Athena''s system prompt also updated, albeit with slight differences from theirs.


    [ Yellow Giant Bee Tribe ]


    Status: Friendly


    Contribution: 0


    Introduction: They are a rare lord-level unit within the Black Forest, feared by common monsters. They have considerable influence within the Black Forest.


    By making contributions to this faction, you can earn contribution points. These points can be exchanged for corresponding items in the faction contribution shop.


    [ Contribution Shop ]


    Bee Honey: Strengthens the body and has a certain healing effect. The lower the attribute points, the stronger the enhancement effect, with a maximum direct enhancement of 3 attribute points. Price: 10 contribution points per gram.


    Stinger of the Giant Bees: A potent weapon, also excellent material for crafting weapons. When fused with a weapon, it can create a distinctive weapon. Price: 50 contribution points each.


    ... Currently, the contribution level cannot view higher-tier items. Please acquire contribution points as soon as possible.


    The items in the contribution shop are scarce. Currently, only Giant Bee Honey and Stingers can be viewed, both considered decent but ultimately ordinary items. Instead of quietly waiting here, she decided to take advantage of the safe and comfortable environment to practice her archery. Though she couldn''t bring the book from Uncle Gowther, its contents were firmly etched in her mind.


    Following the instructions from the book, Athena began practicing. The atmosphere within the hive seemed to have a calming effect, and she suddenly grasped a point she hadn''t understood before.


    The Yellow Giant Bee tribe, which had lived in this Black Forest for who knows how long and through countless generations, dominated the area. They were familiar with the terrain and possessed a massive population.


    Athena hadn''t been practicing for long when Agasi returned with a group of worker bees, carrying various materials that Athena had asked them to find.


    With just a quick glance, Athena confirmed they had found the right materials. It seemed the efficiency of these giant bees in handling tasks was quite commendable, considering they were under a Hive Queen.


    However, Athena was somewhat disappointed that the precious materials she sought weren''t among them. Those materials must be even more valuable than she had imagined.


    "Check again. There are two types missing."


    "Yeah, you''re right. Please try to find the other two. Their absence might affect the effectiveness, but I can work with what we have."


    The bees organized the materials together neatly underground as Athena instructed. Despite the amount, the table provided by the Hive Queen couldn''t accommodate all of them. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Counting the inventory, she spoke to Agasi, "We''re almost there in terms of what we need, but the quantities are lacking. The failure rate of Fireburst Balls is extremely high. I''ll need more materials."


    Agasi understood well; after all, the more powerful the item, the greater the cost of production. At this moment, it displayed an unusual calmness.


    "Understood." Turning away, it flew out with the worker bees to continue searching for the materials Athena required.


    Once she had the materials, Athena began the process of crafting. The method for creating Fireburst Balls was rudimentary and straightforward, requiring no elaborate containers or tools, but basic precautions were essential.


    Fortunately, the Hive Queen had considered everything thoroughly. Athena marveled at the assortment of odd and curious tools available.


    Before Agasi arrived, another bee queen dispatched by the Hive Queen had delivered a series of crafting tools and a workbench, complete with chairs¡ªeverything she needed.


    Though it still wasn''t as comprehensive as what she had seen at Uncle Gowther''s, it was enough to manufacture Fireburst Balls.


    Sitting down at the workbench, Athena couldn''t help but reminisce. It felt somewhat similar to when Uncle Gowther guided her through the creation of Fireburst Balls, except her mindset now was entirely different.


    Sorting through the materials brought by the giant bees, she set them aside for use. Following the mental images stored in her memory, she slowly began replicating the process.

 Chapter 86: Bee Wars

    Chapter 86: Bee WarsUnfortunately, the production process was not going smoothly. Athena had found it so difficult under the guidance of that strict goblin, and now that she was producing independently without his guidance, it was still quite challenging.


    Fortunately, she had learned the production techniques before, so even though the success rate was only one out of ten, she was still able to produce many explosive balls due to the ample supply of materials.


    The giant bees who helped her transport materials could often hear huge explosions coming from the beehive as Athena became more proficient with the stacking of materials, the explosions became increasingly terrifying.


    Athena decided to place the materials outdoors and have them brought to her one by one by Mikmik, to prevent any materials from being destroyed by explosions.


    Because she was the one producing the explosive balls, even if they were unstable, she was able to extend the time before they exploded.


    So every time she saw one about to explode, Athena quickly stored everything into her system backpack and rushed out. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The sound of a massive explosion echoed in the beehive, and the flames inside could still be seen vaguely, but because they couldn''t burn, the flames quickly extinguished, leaving only extremely high temperatures.


    Athena stood outside the beehive, quietly waiting for the fire inside to die down before entering again.


    She felt like she was on the verge of a breakthrough. At this rate, she might be able to produce ordinary-quality explosive balls by the end of the day. By then, she would be able to control the stability and explosion time of the explosive balls.


    Previously under Mu''s guidance, he had taught her everything he could in the shortest amount of time, imprinting it all into her mind.


    And now all she needed to do was accumulate experience and practice these operations over and over again, with the support of the giant bee colony.


    This allowed her to quickly become proficient in these operations.


    Athena gave the explosive balls she produced to Agasi, who then brought them to the Hive Queen. However, she did not hand over all of them, keeping some for herself.


    She was like a mad scientist, constantly producing explosive balls in the beehive.


    Sometimes, after several consecutive explosions, when her mindset collapsed, she would mutter to herself like a crazy person and become irritable.


    Then she would start the even more frantic process of producing explosive balls, completely immersing herself in it. Mikmik would carefully place down the materials and quickly run away when he saw her.


    More and more explosive balls piled up on the side.


    The Hive Queen obtained these Explosive Balls and only after examining them closely did she truly understand how terrifying they were. In addition to Agasi leaving to search for materials, another bee queen came to her side, making a total of four. The three bee queens previously sent out due to the chaos in the central area had now returned to her side.


    Before the chaos erupted, it was not advisable to invest too much high combat power as they were to fight other monsters later. The Hive Queen had said she could further enhance the power of these Explosive Balls, which was indeed true. All the Explosive Balls brought to her from Athena were suspended in mid-air.


    A golden light flashed in the Hive Queen''s ruby-like eyes, and the Explosive Balls in front of her followed suit, emitting faint light. The shell, originally encased in ordinary soil, had become smooth and glossy, exuding a terrifying aura.


    This was the Hive Queen''s unique skill: she could enhance these weapons by one grade. While she couldn''t enhance grades that were too high, she had no trouble enhancing inferior quality to common quality.


    Athena was still producing continuously, ensuring that these Explosive Balls would play a crucial role in the upcoming battle for Dark Fruit.


    Perhaps this time, their Yellow Bee Colony could surpass the Black Bee Colony. The hive of giant bees was quiet, except for the Yellow Bees continuously being sent to the central area of the Black Forest to die, foreshadowing the imminent war that would affect the entire forest.


    Meanwhile, a strange situation had developed in the central area where players had joined forces with the Yellow Bee Colony. By joining them and discovering the contribution shop, they had already sided with the Yellow Bee Colony.


    In order to earn more contribution points, they joined the war, protected by the Yellow Bee Colony, which significantly reduced the pressure compared to being surrounded by both colonies. With the support of the Yellow Bees, the players were virtually invincible, pressing the Black Bee Colony into a corner.


    Countless casualties had befallen the Black Bee Colony, and their bee queen was furious, unable to understand how these small insects could suddenly change sides. In desperation, she had to send a distress signal to the main hive, hoping for reinforcements to counter the growing threat posed by the Yellow Bees.


    The continuous supply of troops to the battlefield was crucial to maintain their strength and ward off potential dangers in the upcoming attack. Only with thousands of giant bees could they withstand the impending crisis.


    On the other end of the Black Forest, beyond the transparent barrier, lay the nest of the Black Bee Colony. If the Yellow Bee Colony''s nest resembled giant beehives, like numerous beasts piled together, the Black Bee Colony''s hive was akin to a high-rise building, showcasing their advanced civilization with dignity and grandeur.


    The most prominent feature was the exquisite transparent hive, guarded by five Bee Queens outside, while inside, there were various furniture items, exquisite ornaments, and the ground covered with skins of other monsters.


    Compared to the hive where the Hive Queen of the Yellow Bee Colony resided, it was significantly larger. With long, jet-black hair reaching the ground and a pair of bee wings on her back, the Hive Queen of the Black Bee Colony possessed a humanoid form. Her skin was as smooth as jade, her figure proud.


    Although she had a pair of captivating fox-like eyes, unfortunately, they had no whites, only a dark, ominous void that made onlookers shudder and feel a sense of foreboding.


    While teasing a saber-tooth tiger, watching it struggle in vain and seeing its despair, her mood suddenly turned jubilant. But upon receiving information from the Black bee queen in the central area, her expression changed, and the amusement faded. She lightly tapped the giant tiger''s head, turning it into a mist of blood that vanished.


    "Why are people from the Third World getting involved? Berry, what are you up to? Collaborating with people from the Third World, I''ll wipe you all out!"

 Chapter 87: Bee Wars Intensified!

    Chapter 87: Bee Wars Intensified!She soared out of the small hive, coming to a halt in midair. Despite her small wings, she emitted the most powerful sound in the world¡ªthe arrival of the Hive Queen herself was the highest command.


    Inside another hive, a large spherical object filled with yellow liquid.


    At regular intervals, an egg would be produced, carried by worker bees to another hive for incubation.


    The Hive Queen of the black giant bees had evolved, leading the entire hive and community to further evolution. She now possessed a humanoid form, personally overseeing egg production within the hive.


    She was the pinnacle of combat prowess, never straying far from guarding the hive.


    Hive Queen Berry of the yellow giant bees had made an unprecedented choice to unite with the people of the Third World.


    To them, they were the highest beings, looking down upon all monsters, including the people of the Third World, an act that was akin to lowering their own pride.


    This was absolutely unacceptable; how could the Hive Queen deign to ally with those mere insects?


    Despite this, they had to acknowledge the military strength of the Third World, never allowing the yellow giant bee tribe to gain the dark fruits.


    Once the yellow giant bee tribe successfully evolved to the same level as her, their status would revert to what it was before.


    The yellow giant bee tribe could only be a vassal to their black giant bee tribe.


    With her at the center, ripples formed one after another in the air, driving the execution of the entire hive.


    The once peaceful hive now hummed internally, strengthened as a whole, with a much faster production rate than before, sending batch after batch to the battlefield.


    Among them, one could see a strong individual in every batch, not quite a queen bee but certainly elite level. As for the yellow giant bee tribe, apart from the exceptionally rare queen bee, all were mere worker bees.


    Inside the yellow giant bee tribe.


    As Berry strengthened the explosive sphere, she also received reports from the frontline. Suddenly, a sense of unease rose¡ªa vague suppression from above.


    It was Bester, the hive bee of the black giant bee tribe, making a move. It knew that once it allied with the people of the Third World, the situation would inevitably turn chaotic.


    After all these years, how could it allow them to overturn its dominance, even for once?


    Yet, it also yearned to evolve, not just for the tribe but for its own freedom.


    "One queen bee should stay here; all other queens, move to the frontline."


    "Now, immediately!"


    Time was of the essence; if the black giant bees broke the peace first, the nutrient supply that the tree monsters could receive would increase, and their growth would accelerate even faster.


    Though their preparations were not yet complete, due to continuous reinforcement, more forces than in previous years headed to the battlefield, accelerating maturity this time.


    Time was running out; the dark fruits this time might ripen much faster than they had imagined.


    Those guys surely couldn''t stay hidden for long.


    Above a tall peak, on its sheer cliff.


    A large bird hovering above spread its enormous wings, the wind howling around the cliff. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The bird leaped into the wind, soaring towards the central area.


    Deep within an unseen canyon, a hundred-meter-long serpent coiled, a single horn upon its head.


    Small but already displaying its form, its eyes brimming with human-like intelligence, no other creatures in the canyon or its surroundings¡ªthis was a forbidden zone of life.


    With the arrival of a new faction, the Black Forest was once again poised for a major upheaval.


    The war in the central region never ceased. The black giant bee tribe, players from the Third World and the yellow giant bee tribe, seemed to be under a looming suppression.


    However fiercely they battled, no one dared to disturb the tree monsters even slightly.


    Everyone understood implicitly that these creatures were the most crucial entities in this place; any interference with them would draw a collective attack.


    On the other hand, the current tree monsters were beyond anyone''s control.


    As they fought, cracks continually emerged from the ground, with tree roots extending to retrieve bodies strewn across the battlefield, yet not interfering with the combatants in the slightest.


    By now, the tree monsters had grown into colossal beings. Only by tilting their heads back could one see their crowns, towering majestically against the sky.


    They cast a shadow so dense that underneath, the roots grew more intricate, leaves dense, and their dark fruits gradually taking form.


    They faintly glowed, their initially slow growth suddenly accelerating, greedily absorbing the surrounding corpses.


    The tree roots twisted and changed, becoming more volatile. The entire tree was at its most active.


    Patterns on the trunk were complex, vaguely resembling smiling human faces, starkly different from the formerly divine trees.


    Now, these tree monsters could truly be called monsters¡ªsinister, terrifying, exuding immense pressure.


    Only their highest fruit still radiated a divine light.


    The dark fruits were nearing maturity.


    Athena tirelessly crafted explosive spheres, seemingly unaware of fatigue. Sweat dripped from her forehead, but she remained focused, controlling every detail with utmost concentration.


    Finally, at the eleventh hour, she successfully broke through!


    The radiance emitted from the explosive sphere indicated it was of ordinary quality.


    After countless attempts, she had finally mastered it; now, she was truly an alchemist.


    Yet her head suddenly throbbed unbearably, as if it might explode at any moment. Intense use of mental energy caused her nose to bleed.


    She quickly retrieved a healing potion from her backpack, downing it in one gulp. Its icy touch slid down her throat, gradually alleviating her condition.


    Though materials remained, she couldn''t continue. The quantity of explosive spheres was already sufficient.


    Exiting the hive filled with the smell of gunpowder, she took a rare breath of fresh air outside, feeling alive.


    -- Has something major happened in the war zone? Why is no one chatting on the channel?


    -- I''m not just any person, am I always here?


    -- Always? It''s always just been you?


    -- They''re in the heat of battle outside, it''s crazy! I dare not venture out. They even formed a new faction, though I wasn''t interested from the start.


    -- Not interested, or too scared?


    -- Yeah, you guys seem to live so excitingly, unlike us lying comfortably in bed.


    -- Where are you all fighting? I got lost right from the start; no idea where I ended up.


    -- There''s a massive snake nearby, hundreds of meters long! It scared me so much I haven''t moved."


    -- Forget about ranking up; right now, were at war! The snake finally left just now. Where are you? Hurry over to join us!

 Chapter 88: Fourth Force

    Chapter 88: Fourth ForceAthena had barely emerged from the beehive when she noticed a faint light screen shimmering on the hive, emitted from Berry''s main hive.


    It spread outwards, enveloping everything tightly within.


    However, only half of the Giant Bee Clan''s territory was covered by it; the rest of the outer perimeter remained exposed.


    It must have been due to insufficient energy.


    If that were the case, it would only prove that the premature ripening of the dark fruits had been accelerated.


    She rubbed her slightly furrowed brow.


    There really was no moment to rest.


    If nothing unexpected happened, she would undoubtedly secure the first place in this regional battle.


    Once the time came to start seizing the dark fruits, Athena''s Fireburst Balls would inevitably be used.


    And all the damage inflicted would be credited to her. She had already received the system''s rewards; now, she needed to obtain Tree Monster skins and Tree Monster leaves.


    She pondered whether to stay directly within the Giant Bee Clan and await the end of this war, waiting for the final distribution of results. But she quickly dismissed the thought; while feasible, she would at best be just a logistics personnel.


    She couldn''t always be a logistics person in every instance; such chaotic battle experience would also benefit her.


    When Agasi returned with materials once again, he saw Athena leisurely lounging outside, seemingly idling.


    He was about to inform her that once the protective shield was activated, no one could enter or leave to search for materials.


    Athena waved at him before he could speak, irritating him slightly, but he managed to restrain himself.


    "You''ve worked hard, but it''s unnecessary now. Just leave them aside for the moment."


    After several rounds of gathering, each batch of materials brought back was less than the last, but far more than Athena could gather alone.


    Her system backpack was full, and she couldn''t discard any of its contents.


    When she returned, she would have to see if she could bring all these things back; otherwise, it would be a pity.


    Arriving at Berry''s hive, she held the only ordinary quality Fireburst Ball in her hand and wondered if the Hive Queen could enhance it.


    The continuous state of the Hive Queen was really not good; it had prematurely activated the protective shield. It had to keep producing continuously, strengthen the Fireburst Ball, and also pay attention to the situation on the battlefield. It was already showing signs of fatigue. Upon seeing Athena enter, it didn''t intend to conceal this.


    Athena handed the Fireburst Ball to it, "Can you enhance this quality as well?"


    "I intend to keep this one for myself."


    Setting aside the other Fireburst Balls, the Hive Queen immediately took this one and started enhancing it separately.


    After a while, it successfully strengthened it.


    The Fireburst Ball transformed into a fine quality one, not only becoming more stable but also possessing a power far beyond ordinary and inferior quality ones.


    The mere act of holding them made her heart race.


    These were beyond the usual trades; the low-quality Fireburst Balls in her possession were essentially acquired through underhanded means.


    Both she and the Hive Queen understood this tacitly, but neither intended to openly acknowledge it. It was better left unspoken. However, expecting the other to provide free enhancements was pushing it.


    But perhaps this was just part of the give-and-take of favors.


    Athena''s intention to head to the battlefield was apparent, and the Hive Queen showed no inclination to stop her.


    "Let Agasi take you. It can carry you," Athena approached the Hive Queen, intending to raise this matter, only to find the Hive Queen beating her to it.


    Agasi, with its helicopter-sized frame, could accommodate Athena comfortably. If they could drop such devastating weapons from the air and have Agasi defend against attacks, it would be a formidable alliance.


    "Okay," the conversation was brief, just a few sentences.


    As they departed, Athena remembered to thank the Hive Queen.


    Agasi vibrated its wings discontentedly, tossing a few wind blades around. However, it couldn''t disobey orders; that was out of the question.


    Athena jumped directly onto its back. As Agasi ascended, Mikmik, curious, quietly nestled in Athena''s embrace.


    Athena couldn''t help but chuckle softly. "You climb such tall trees without fear, yet your first time ''riding a helicopter,'' you''re suddenly afraid of heights?"


    Mikmik played dead, and Athena didn''t tease it further.


    Agasi''s speed was impressive, quickly outpacing the yellow Giant Bees behind and gradually approaching the central area.


    The central region was in chaos, yet curiously devoid of corpses. The Giant Bees and Third World players, who had been battling each other, were now maneuvering around a large bird that had just arrived.


    The bird spread its wings, each several dozen meters wide, tearing the airborne Giant Bees to shreds with sharp claws.


    With its incredibly fast flight speed, it toyed with the Giant Bees endlessly.


    But as more Queen Bees arrived, it ceased its mischief and ignored the ordinary Giant Bees and Third World players.


    It stood guard near the Tree Monsters.


    The remaining Giant Bees dared not act rashly, gradually realizing they were not welcome in this scenario. Some players were already considering retreat.


    Having slain many Giant Bees, not only did they rise in the rankings, they could also exchange many things in the Contribution Store.


    Thus, while some players withdrew, others remained, driven either by madness or greed.


    Potato had been urging Ask-The-Heavens to flee from the sidelines, but Ask-The-Heavens remained unmoved throughout.


    Relying on Ask-The-Heavens''s combat prowess, scrolls, and various treasures, the two successfully entered the finals.


    Potato now understood that Ask-The-Heavens was a complete madman.


    Even with wounds bleeding profusely and on the verge of death, as long as there was breath in his body, he would continue fighting his opponent. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Only after killing the opponent would he slowly begin to heal his wounds.


    He truly feared this guy, but he couldn''t escape alone now.


    The arrival of Athena and Agasi didn''t attract much attention. The continuous influx of Giant Bees and successive Queen Bees no longer surprised them.


    However, Agasi didn''t head towards the Tree Monsters but stayed on the periphery with Athena. Some keen-eyed individuals noticed Athena on Agasi''s back.


    Her purple dot on the map hadn''t disappeared because she hadn''t participated in the melee recently, causing her ranking to drop further.


    Now she had fallen to eighth place.


    A dream shattered.


    Many recognized her as the madwoman who had thrown the Fireburst Balls previously, causing some to be wary.


    Moreover, she was now sitting directly on a Bee Queen''s back, and the situation between them appeared quite amicable.


    With three forces now in a standoff, no one dared to make a move because the fourth force was about to arrive...

 Chapter 89: Great Wars And Great Entities

    Chapter 89: Great Wars And Great EntitiesIn the distant areas kilometers away, the sound of trees falling and dust flying could be heard, causing birds and beasts to flee in panic.


    The crowd was startled by the commotion, already knowing that something massive was approaching.


    The players had no intention of running away, but gradually backed away from the central area, finding a place to observe from a safe distance.


    They couldn''t see clearly, but Athena stood high up, with a vision darker than usual, watching a giant white snake that stretched hundreds of meters with no end in sight.


    The moment they caught sight of it, there was a feeling of blood freezing, but even the giant bees, including the bee queens and Agasi, remained motionless.


    The large birds in the sky flapped their wings and squawked, expressing their displeasure. Despite their huge size, no one feared them.


    Hearing the squawking of the birds, the snake creature, originally rushing forward, its scales not as shiny due to the dust, became even more angry.


    "Well, let''s take out our frustrations on you!" The snake creature''s body was covered in white scales, its golden vertical pupils exuding a deathly aura as it approached.


    Athena half-squatted on Agasi''s back, "Do you guys always fight over the dark fruit with them?"


    "Of course!" Agasi was very proud.


    Athena slowly stood up again, thinking it''s fine, their bee tribe definitely had a way to resist these guys.


    How should they handle this massive creature?


    The remaining players were filled with despair, those who had planned to observe now madly ran away.


    [ Landlady ] also wanted to retreat, but seeing Athena on Agasi''s back, motionless, she retracted her steps.


    No one anticipated that the snake creature hadn''t made a move yet. A gigantic bird flew towards the snake creature first, which opened its huge mouth. The snake''s sharp teeth aimed at the bird, but the bird managed to dodge the attack, glowing with a turquoise light.


    "Foul bird, what are you doing? It''s not time yet!"


    "Hmph, haven''t you already wanted to start?"


    "Do we still need to wait? Since everyone is here, let''s just kill them all, and the dark fruit will ripen instantly, right?"


    The yellow giant bees, as the two were fighting, began to retreat. Though something seemed amiss, they paid no heed, as the yellow bee tribe had long been on the decline.


    Who would''ve expected one of the bee queens to toss several explosive balls at them. Shouting at them, "Get lost!"


    And then another explosive ball came from a different direction.


    While they could resist one explosive ball, they still had to dodge a few. If there were more, it would be unavoidable.


    The energy waves faintly emitting from the explosive balls made them want to flee immediately.


    As they dodged, the explosive balls continued to detonate one after another, with deafening explosions echoing through the sky.


    The raging flames fell like a torrential rain, as if doomsday had arrived.


    The large bird up ahead, the hair-raising snake creature, and countless black giant bees were all engulfed in this raging sea of fire.


    They struggled in the flames, trying to escape the dreadful disaster, but the fire grew fiercer, gradually devouring them.


    Not only the power of the flames, but also the impact and damage from the explosions.


    The corpses of many black giant bees fell one after another, the feathers of the large bird turned charred, some already burnt to ashes. The scales of the snake creature were blasted off, piece by piece.


    The yellow giant bee tribe''s retreat before the battle was originally amusing to the snake demon.


    But after being attacked, the snake went crazy again, thrashing and slapping on the ground. The explosion caused it harm, but completely enraged it.


    It had originally planned to deal with the big bird first, but now it only wanted to catch these damn yellow giant bee queens!


    Just as it was about to sweep everything around with half of its body raised, it suddenly launched an attack towards the black bird.


    The bees held weapons that it didn''t understand, and now that the big bird was injured, it decided to take it out first.


    Although the big bird usually disliked this snake, it never expected it to turn against it at a critical moment, shocking its heart.


    It was very curious about those weapons, but also deeply wary.


    But it had to focus on facing the snake demon''s attacks.


    The fireburst balls were definitely effective, but they were running out quickly.


    The snake demon wanted to kill the big bird first, but found that this guy was very slippery. Despite its much larger size, it couldn''t seem to hit it, as the opponent was easily avoiding its attacks in the air.


    As they fought, it began to feel passive, like it had become a target for practice, its eyes filled with malice.


    The bees were also helping on the side, but not leaning towards either side, accurately attacking both.


    But their attacks were completely disregarded, and it was the Black Giant Bees and Yellow Giant Bees that suffered the most losses during the battle between the big bird and the snake monster.


    The big bird and the snake monster were equally matched in strength, but the element of surprise was elusive, and dodging was at its maximum.


    If the Black Giant Bee Queen encountered an ordinary opponent, it would have put up a fight, but the snake demon was already close to a higher level existence, making it a very challenging opponent even when entangled in so many, causing them to struggle.


    The massive body of the snake monster pushed over the trees on all sides, thrashing its tail fiercely around, swatting the bees away like mosquitoes.


    The Bee Queen dodged but was still hit and sent flying, and the snake monster planned to swallow it whole. The big bird rushed over, and a blue shield suddenly expanded in front of it, encasing the snake demon.


    The big bird was the most difficult opponent, possessing a variety of skills that even monsters found hard to deal with.


    Athena and Agasi were completely forgotten by everyone, with many other players below them.


    "This is bad."


    They never expected the snake demon''s attack to suddenly turn in their direction, and the yellow giant bee queens were unable to evade the snake demon''s bloodthirsty mouth.


    "This snake is always terrifyingly stupid, making it impossible to figure out." Agasi carried Athena and without allowing her to react, rushed towards the scene.


    The yellow giant bee queens hurriedly threw out several explosive balls, bringing another round of explosions.


    But because they were too close, the bee queens were also affected by the shock, and a huge snake head broke through the thick smoke and charged at them.


    Even though its scales were blown away and its head was covered in blood, it looked like a monstrous abyss opening its jaws. Its eyes becoming blacker as it became the powerhouse representative of the darkness at this very moment.


    In an instant, Agasi transformed from a biological form to a half-mechanical form, with metal wings.


    It no longer needed wings for flight, as it could now hover in the air on its own, with its wings becoming its sharpest weapons.


    "This snake is brainless, easy to deal with!" S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Saying that, Athena was thrown onto the snake monster''s body, without a pause, she ran on top of it.


    Planning to swing the axe and chop at the vital points, the difference in their sizes was simply too vast. Athena was inconspicuous on top, and even if this axe worked miraculously, it would have little impact on the snake monster.


    Agasi stood between the snake monster and the yellow giant bee queens, using its metal wings to firmly resist their attacks, then flapped its wings hard to break free, but was also thrown far away.

 Chapter 90: The Tragic End Of The Serpent

    Chapter 90: The Tragic End Of The SerpentBlessed by a peculiar enchantment, Agasi burst forth with astonishing speed, charging towards the serpent''s head. His collision sent it reeling, successfully dodging the serpent''s strike.


    Meanwhile, the huge bird was locked in combat with the black giant queen bee. Once again, it activated the verdant shield, enveloping the monsters.


    In less than five seconds, the serpent would break free and decimate the bees. Holding off the serpent for this long was already a remarkable feat.


    But it wasn''t enough. The players had only one option now: to flee.


    Coming to his senses in an instant, Agasi bolted towards safety in the distance, unleashing his hidden potential in the face of danger.


    Each stride faster than the last.


    They did not look back, knowing survival was paramount at this moment.


    Even though Potato knew he would do the same, seeing another group of players retreat silently irked him.


    Glancing stealthily at Asks-The-Heavens for answers, there was still no intention of movement.


    "They''re all running. Let''s go too."


    "Okay," Asks-The-Heavens replied, suppressing the taste of blood in his mouth.


    Originally, Potato intended to cover Asks-The-Heavens from behind, knowing Asks-The-Heavens was faster. It might earn him some goodwill later, even if he ended up trailing behind.


    But how could Asks-The-Heavens agree? His "okay" wasn''t agreeing to flee, but to charge forward.


    Potato hesitated for a moment, then seeing Asks-The-Heavens rush out, followed by the remaining players.


    The serpent pursued, its massive body sweeping past, kicking up dust and felling trees. Birds that had hidden in the forest scattered in fear.


    The bees were even more distressed.


    They knew continuing to fight the serpent would mean certain death.


    Choosing to run also meant a bleak future, but for now, they gambled.


    The serpent grew increasingly agitated, its charge towards Agasi becoming faster, almost catching up.


    With its violent thrashing, it was difficult for Athena to run on its body.


    For the black giant bees, they should have surrounded the yellow giant queen bee alongside these two monsters.


    But after a year had passed, the serpent had evolved unexpectedly.


    This cooperative relationship had already been broken, so now their priority was to deal with the serpent.


    Despite being part of the yellow bee tribe, the yellow giant queen bee struggled to hold back the huge bird.


    Athena swung the black abyss axe at the serpent''s seven-inch part repeatedly, aiming to crack its tough phosphorus armor, even if just a little.


    Feeling the attacks on its vulnerable spot, the serpent grew more furious, trying hard to shake off the humans on its body, but Agasi, accompanied by numerous yellow giant bees, kept it surrounded.


    What made it even more agitated was that those insignificant insects it once looked down upon, those weak humans, were now climbing onto its body. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena wasn''t having an easy time either. The scales of the scattered serpents around her had turned into small snakes, hindering her advance.


    In the midst of the battle, Athena''s hair had long come loose, sticking to her shoulders in sweat.


    But with the support of other players, Athena felt much lighter instantly. They surrounded her, fending off the serpents converging from all sides.


    The one enjoying the battle the most was Asks-The-Heavens, followed by Potato, who wielded his large shield like a sword. The duo wasn''t thrilled but knew Athena had a plan.


    Finally, after relentless effort, a piece of scale on the serpent''s seven-inch spot shattered, revealing its soft flesh beneath.


    Striking at the seven-inch spot was the serpent''s greatest weakness and its most reinforced part.


    In that moment, it went berserk, emitting a blinding light.


    "Escape!"


    This shout was almost shouted by Athena with all her strength. She threw a good quality Fireburst Ball into the flesh of the snake monster.


    Originally, when the yellow giant bees were about to start a massacre directly using Fireburst Balls, Athena informed Agasi, who conveyed the order to stop.


    Not because of anything else, but because she learned from Agasi that the current snake monster had evolved since the last time Agasi saw it.


    It could transform into a human form, but the control was unstable, so it remained in its original form.


    What Athena worried about was that under the many Fireburst Balls, the snake monster would choose to transform into a human form, gaining higher agility and mobility, making it harder to hit.


    She lured the enemy step by step, choosing to boil the frog in warm water.


    Even when Athena broke his phosphorous armor, all him thought about was throwing Athena off directly or transforming into a more powerful snake to kill her.


    While his armor was indeed hard, the flesh beneath it was tougher.


    By now, the snake monster had shrunken and transformed into a human form, but the Fireburst Ball was buried inside his body.


    How is this possible?!


    How could that human break his phosphorous armor?!


    His white clothes gradually turned blood red. The red light in his eyes grew brighter, full of murder!


    Just then, Athena beside him acted first. A faint light enveloped her, and she was directly teleported back to the cave where she was before.


    The golden-eyed person now looked incredulous, watching Athena being teleported away, unable to stop it.


    "No one can escape! Ahhh!"


    Soon, his pupils were filled with disbelief and slight difference, making him feel extremely fearful.


    But as Athena left, a wave of terror and heat, as if the earth was about to be destroyed, erupted from the snake monster''s human-form body, sweeping across the entire area.


    The tree monsters also let out a cry at the moment of the explosion, but soon collapsed, with countless roots tightly wrapping around them, forming a huge protective circle.


    Players also noticed this change and ran as fast as they could.


    When Athena told them to run, they had already retreated, but it turned out to be more terrifying than they had imagined.


    Agasi and the others had long since left. The black giant bee queen watched as the yellow giant bees retreated and also wanted to retreat. The big bird naturally followed them closely, not being a brainless snake.


    The explosion emanating from the snake monster''s body shook the entire black forest. His body became tattered, full of wounds, silently lying on the scorched earth, no longer making a sound.


    And all the surrounding creatures dare not step into the center area at this moment. This wildfire was more violent than any before. It was no longer red but a fiery flame.


    Although the snake monster was seriously injured, he showed no signs of fatigue. On the contrary, his aura reached an unprecedented terrifying level, and his wounds began to recover and new blood grew within a short time.


    Unfortunately, the cries of the tree monsters grew stronger and stronger. The roots that had nurtured from so many corpses had been blown apart. The new, smaller roots tangled around the motionless snake monster.


    The snake monster began to struggle violently, not giving up even though blood was flowing everywhere.


    Such injuries would degrade it, but not kill it. The energy released could push away surrounding creatures.


    Allowing him to heal his wounds, but he was in the center area, and beside him was the tree monster, which spelled doom¡­


    Take advantage of his illness, take his life.


    The tree monster opened a deep crack in the center of the tree, and the snake monster was pushed inside like a hungry demon.


    The sound of a tragic scream continued, unable to stop for a long time as the tree monster continued to chew the snake monster.


    And the fruit on the tree was now ripe¡­

 Chapter 91: Chaos At Peak!

    Chapter 91: Chaos At Peak!The green fruit swelled and grew, its color shifting from light to dark until it turned a deep black.


    The tree monster, having absorbed the serpent monster, began to regenerate its previously blasted branches at a frantic pace.


    A violent, dark, twisted, and maddening aura spread in all directions. Its roots became grotesquely gnarled and dried.


    Under the players'' incredulous gazes, its roots burst from the ground and pierced the crevices of the trunk.


    The trunk, like a boundless black hole, devoured these roots. The air was filled with wails as human faces emerged from the dark fruit atop the tree.


    Eventually, it transformed into a single black fruit, emitting a strange black light. The scattered corpses of the giant bees on the ground were left untouched this time.


    The war was on the verge of breaking out. Almost everyone moved at the same time, like ravenous wolves, mindless beasts, charging towards the giant tree.


    Agasi led the yellow giant bee queen, then the black giant bee queen, and the remaining birds. The three sides gathered, continuously attacking one another.


    Wave after wave of giant bees recklessly charged at the fruit, only to be thwarted and killed by any of the factions.


    The players, equally frenzied, used various weapons to stab into the tree monster''s branches from smaller trunks, attempting to take away as much as they could!


    Some aimed for the leaves above, but getting close to the canopy was impossible¡ªit was heavily guarded.


    Athena was teleported into a cave, clutching Mikmik. Thankfully, they had escaped quickly, or they would have been blown to pieces.


    The serpent monster probably wouldn''t survive. If those present allowed it to live, there would be no need to fight over the dark fruit; they could simply give it to the serpent.


    There was no time to waste. Athena sprinted towards the center, her destination clear.


    As she exited the cave, she saw the towering tree in the distance, now several times larger than before.


    More terrifying was the strange glow emanating from it, drawing even Athena''s gaze, compelling her to claim it for herself.


    A fruit capable of captivating the mind!


    The fruit was ripe, and the battle had likely already erupted. Athena hurried towards the commotion.


    Meanwhile, at the forest''s edge, two hive queens sensed the changes simultaneously.


    To their surprise, the serpent monster was dead. Though it had died at the tree monster''s hands, it was still shocking to the bees.


    The protective shield above the yellow giant bee''s hive flickered, its energy waning, while dense black fog swirled around, ready to consume it.


    In the distance, the black hive queen hovered in mid-air, clutching a sphere of energy.


    Her eyes, black as voids, emitted a black light. Black mist continuously poured from her open mouth.


    "Kill them all!"


    Shrouded in black mist, the yellow giant bee hive''s forces were immobilized, preventing any reinforcements for Athena''s side from arriving.


    Players, having seen Athena on Agasi''s back, now mimicked her, standing on the yellow giant bees'' backs.


    BAAAM! BRRZZTT!! BAAGMMM!!!


    They launched relentless attacks on the canopy, deploying a variety of skills, even resorting to the dirtiest tricks!


    When Athena arrived, the battle was already fierce. She quickly climbed a nearby tree, leaping nimbly to catch a black giant bee and flipped onto its back.


    Despite the yellow giant bees lacking reinforcements, the explosive fireballs and player support temporarily suppressed the black giant bees.


    The giant birds, plagued by the fireballs, were reluctant to engage directly, fearing another situation like the serpent monster¡¯s demise.


    Many people were now hacking at the tree, wishing to take the whole tree if possible. But no matter how they attacked, the tree didn¡¯t even shed a layer of bark.


    Eventually, they focused their attacks on one spot, finally seeing a small crack. Unfortunately, their joy was short-lived as the crack quickly healed, becoming even tougher than before.


    The tree monster remained motionless, as if lifeless after completing its mission, indifferent to the players'' actions.


    Even the players who had fled earlier returned, hoping to claim a leaf fallen from the tree as a valuable trophy.


    Before the dark fruit was taken, the tree monster wouldn¡¯t be harmed by any attack, and any damage would instantly heal.


    Trying to take anything from it was a fool¡¯s dream.


    Another wave of violent explosions hit. The combatants were formidable, and Athena had no intention of joining their chaotic battle.


    She was merely there to confuse and distract. Familiarity bred confidence.


    Below, her acquaintances, the Cloaked Witch, and Magic King felt a sense of unease as they saw her return, a feeling of d¨¦j¨¤ vu.


    The yellow giant bee queens occasionally hurled explosive fireballs at the opposing side. Athena assisted by launching her own fireballs.


    Any ordinary black giant bee that approached her was split in half by her axe.


    Her fireballs contributed significantly to the battle, coupled with her inherent damage output, causing her ranking to soar.


    Rank 1 - Big Dream


    The fight was fiercely contested. No side could get close to the dark fruit without being repelled by the combined forces of the other factions, leading to a stalemate. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, the glow of the dark fruit began to fade. It had a time limit and couldn¡¯t withstand prolonged stalling.


    The black fog outside the yellow giant bee hive grew thicker, constantly assaulting their protective shield. Berry had no solution.


    They could only hope for a swift end to the battle and timely reinforcements. The black fog outside seemed determined to obliterate them, with each attack more ferocious than the last.


    The woman in mid-air suddenly stopped spewing black mist. "Hmph!"


    She curled into a fetal position, slowly swallowing the energy orb.


    Instantly, her power surged, but it was only temporary; she needed a quick resolution.


    The massive spherical egg-laying structure inside the hive was summoned by her.


    She then flew inside, soaking in the liquid within. The yellow sphere began to pulsate.


    A mysterious connection formed between it and all the black giant bees...

 Chapter 92: Snatch And Flee!

    Chapter 92: Snatch And Flee!On the distant battlefield, the power of the black giant bees suddenly surged. Their bodies began to crack and then quickly regenerate, growing even larger than before. Their eyes, once dull and lifeless, now gleamed with a hint of intelligence.


    It wouldn''t be long before they succumbed to the strain of this sudden power surge, but for now, the battlefield belonged to them.


    Berry, who had been maintaining the protective shield, found herself running low on energy. Despite being connected to the energy source, the yellow giant bees were significantly weaker. Out of a thousand, only a hundred had undergone the transformation.


    The disparity was glaringly obvious.


    The great bird, having held out until now, silently withdrew from the scene.


    "Sigh, the usual deal... I get ten"


    As long as they were in the Black Forest, there was no defeating the true overlords here¡ªthe yellow and black giant bees. Each skirmish between them was merely a display of power and intent.


    Upon witnessing the snake monster''s tragic demise, the great bird dared not take any chances and decided to retreat.


    The outcome was clear: the yellow giant bees were destined to lose.


    A seemingly ordinary black bee flew to the front of the swarm. Its voice, cold and female, emanated from the bee, revealing it to be the voice of their hive queen, channeled through this particular bee.


    "I''ve changed my mind. You only get five."


    The great bird''s eyes flashed with dissatisfaction and a hint of ferocity, but upon seeing the iron-clad army, it reluctantly spread its wings and flew away.


    The players watched the sudden turn of events with heavy hearts. The formidable enemy they had been prepared to face had abruptly left, and the giant bees, which they had a fighting chance against, had all gone berserk.


    Among them, only Athena pondered how to escape. She hadn''t intended to get involved; she merely sought some tree monster leaves and bark.


    However, seeing an opportunity, she began to entertain different thoughts.


    But reality quickly brought her back. Her greed was tempered by reason, especially after briefly touching the dark fruit, which triggered a system prompt.


    Dark Fruit is a special item and cannot be collected.


    There was no way to secretly take this thing away.


    Even if she managed to take it, there was still a day left, and Athena knew she couldn¡¯t withstand a combined assault from both the yellow and black giant bee tribes.


    "Agasi," she called heavily to the half-mechanized Agasi, clad in silver armor.


    Agasi was perplexed as to why Athena would call out to him at such a critical moment. How could she afford to be distracted now?


    "I trust in your speed," she said. Without waiting for Agasi to respond, Athena hurled a fireball ahead.


    The giant bees blocking their path scattered, and she leaped onto the back of another bee.


    The black giant bees quickly regrouped, attempting to kill this audacious intruder from the Third World. The lead bee, representing the queen¡¯s consciousness, exuded a terrifying aura.


    [Mental Strength Check...] [Mental Strength Check Successful!]


    The once imposing worker bees suddenly seemed half-dead. As mere temporary vessels forcibly connected to their queen¡¯s spirit, they were incredibly fragile and dropped to the ground instantly.


    Athena didn¡¯t actually approach the tree crown, but getting close was enough. The pervasive black glow dimmed momentarily, making the world lose its color.


    The fruit at the top of the tree was picked. Mikmik stood at the crown, holding the disgusting, eerie fruit in his mouth, its strange appearance and wailing sound repelling him. He could see a swarm of giant bees, along with all other creatures present, staring intently at him.


    Suddenly, they all went mad, charging to capture him. He immediately recognized his master among them and leaped over.


    Athena caught him, holding him tightly as she retreated, stepping over one giant bee after another. The fireballs she threw cleared a path, and she charged into the flames, her hair clinging to her cheeks, ignored in the chaos!


    Sparks landed on her body, her clothes, and her loose hair, all reeking of gunpowder!


    Agasi followed closely, fighting his way through the chaos, despite his overwhelming shock. He now understood why Athena had told him to run faster. He gathered all the yellow giant bees to shield them, and as soon as Athena stepped onto his back, he sped off at an unprecedented pace.


    They all flew away?


    Great! Now it was time for the players to return to their old job¡ªchopping trees!


    While running, they kept sending messages to the main hive. As long as they handed the fruit to the queen, everything would be fine.


    Agasi''s heart was filled with fear, shock, and a surreal sense of excitement. That was a complete Dark Fruit! If the hive queen devoured it, the yellow giant bees would rise to power!


    His speed reached a new record, leaving an afterimage.


    When the black hive queen reconnected, all that remained were turbulent smoke and a swarm chasing Agasi.


    Feeling the familiar pulsations of the Dark Fruit disappear within her range, she went berserk.


    Impossible!!! S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena, on Agasi¡¯s back, kept throwing fireballs backward. Her flame enhancer was exhausted. Despite the yellow giant bees'' defense, the black bees had gone completely mad.


    Seeing her dwindling fireballs, Athena felt a pang of frustration. This trip had drained all her resources.


    Having successfully obtained the Dark Fruit, Athena''s contribution system was resetting and rebooting. She eagerly anticipated her contribution points, expecting them to reach unprecedented heights due to the rarity of the item, possibly allowing her to clean out the entire yellow giant bee tribe.


    While the Dark Fruit was precious, using it could cause her to explode. It was best to trade it for resources to boost her current strength.


    A transparent barrier loomed ahead, like the finish line of a long race.


    As they approached, the black giant bees launched their most ferocious attack yet. Every available yellow giant bee was summoned to shield them, and they successfully crossed the barrier.

 Chapter 93: Berry’s Evolution

    Chapter 93: Berry¡¯s EvolutionPassing through the transparent barrier, they arrived at the Yellow Giant Bee''s domain.


    Normally, pursuit would have ceased upon reaching this point.


    Unfortunately, this was not a normal situation. The unspoken truce between them had no effect now that they had breached the protective barrier. They could clearly see the surrounding black mist, though the supply from the Black giant bees had ceased on their side.


    However, remnants still lingered.


    Undaunted, Agasi pressed forward.


    The once passive barrier suddenly stabilized, emitting a radiant yellow glow.


    Its waves of light rippled out, gradually dispersing the surrounding black fog.


    Wave after intense wave, the light attacked until all the fog dissipated.


    Agasi finally returned with Athena, followed closely by scattered yellow giant bees.


    Some yellow giant bees did not return; Berry had not forgotten her promise to Athena, and they were midway back to the tree monster''s location.


    The towering tree monster, stripped of its Dark Fruit, had lost its former splendor the moment the dark fruit were plucked.


    Its bark, its leaves, all immensely useful and plentiful.


    Everyone thought they could definitely get a share.


    They relentlessly began their assault, and despite its formidable defenses, the players eventually broke through.


    Some yellow giant bees even turned back, joining their ranks. Clearly experienced, they skillfully and swiftly harvested its bark and leaves.


    But soon enough, the tree monster seemed lifeless, shrinking from its towering form back into a sapling, then a seedling, and finally into a seed.


    As it reverted, the giant bees withdrew. Those without strength left first, leaving only a few players guarding the seed.


    Agasi charged straight to the main hive. Knowing the protective shield''s attack pattern couldn''t last long and would consume substantial energy.


    Without needing further urging, when Athena''s feet touched solid ground, she stepped forward.


    She showed the Dark Fruit, casting it directly toward the Hive Queen without hesitation.


    The Dark Fruit hovered in the air, then was swiftly taken by the Hive Queen straight into her mouth.


    It was a complete Dark Fruit, in one piece!


    Mission Completed!


    Yellow Giant Bee Faction Respect Level Raised to Reverence!


    Permissions Unlocked, System Contribution Store Reorganized and Open!


    The Hive Queen didn''t have time to utter a word. The moment the Dark Fruit entered her mouth, a massive energy surge within the protective shield caused its territory to instantly expand.


    It pushed the surrounding black giant bees further and further back.


    Berry was enveloped by a yellow, liquid-wrapped sphere materializing out of thin air within the hive itself.


    Covered in yellow fluid, it began to transform.


    From a massive bee, gradually taking on a humanoid form, with changes occurring in its wing structures as well.


    It was evolving.


    As the shield''s territory expanded, the encapsulated hive inside began self-repairing, growing more resilient and beautiful, gaining many new functions.


    Agasi and their wounds began to heal gradually, a biological evolution across their entire group.


    Athena witnessed this miraculous moment, never having experienced vitality so directly.


    Yet now, she could feel a life force around her¡ªunseen, untouchable, yet enveloping her.


    These energies incessantly caressed her body, mending her injuries, integrating her into the Giant Bee family.


    Her once ash-blonde hair grew anew, becoming lustrous black. Damaged panels on her body started to regenerate flesh and blood. She even sensed ongoing internal transformations.


    Unlike the pain and alteration caused by system attribute boosts, this power was gentle, comfortable, devoid of any suffering.


    It felt like being in the earliest moments of life.


    Suddenly, the established order shattered as the Hive Queen, Beta of the Black giant bees, defied her confinement, breaking through the barrier with sheer brute force and power.


    Like a fired projectile, unstoppable and unshakeable, hurtling towards them.


    The outer black giant bees sensed their Queen''s rage, trembling uncontrollably.


    Around the Hive Queen, an endless black mist swirled, her eyes inscrutable depths of cold indifference and fury.


    Gradually, the surrounding mist morphed into monstrous forms. At this moment, she was more terrifying than any other creature, her misty jaws gaping as if to devour everything.


    The once-expanding protective shield unexpectedly halted its expansion.


    Two forces clashed relentlessly, even as Berry within the yellow fluid began to writhe.


    Due to Special Circumstances, Regional Battle terminated early!


    Players, Please Prepare; Transfer Will Commence in 30 Seconds! S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The abrupt turn of events cut short what was supposed to be another day before the regional battle''s end, now instantly concluded.


    Athena hastily accessed the System Contribution Store, which could only be used while within the area.


    Without time to scrutinize the items, she quickly glanced at her contribution points.


    Many zeros. Ignoring these details, she clicked to generate the first page, attempting to purchase items, only to find herself unable. She flipped through the pages, frantically clicking to buy.


    She continued clicking until all her points were spent.


    Once again, she and Mikmik felt the dizzying sensation of being tossed into a washing machine, this time even more violently during the system''s transfer.


    It almost felt retaliatory.


    Athena and Mikmik were unceremoniously thrown out of the transfer array.


    As she lay on the familiar floor, Athena half-rose, rubbing her throbbing head. The immense dizziness mingled with nausea.


    Was the system intentionally doing this?


    Inside the room, the other two immediately pounced on her, pressing her back down.


    Looking at the tree monster leaf in her left hand and the bark slab in her right, only a handful''s worth, but enough.


    Berry, sensing she would be teleported away, directly used part of her power to transfer something from the yellow giant bees to Athena.


    Previously, she couldn''t have achieved this, but now, she had successfully evolved.


    A divine-like figure, fair and translucent skin, perfect proportions, golden eyes complemented by a mane of golden hair, and transparent wings behind her.


    She flew out to confront Beta directly, this image burned into Athena''s final impression.

 Chapter 94: Home Sweet Home

    Chapter 94: Home Sweet HomeThe warm, cozy light of the candles illuminated the room, with a pot of cooling porridge indicating that the two little creatures had just eaten not long ago.


    Even when Athena set them down, they remained just as excited, happily bouncing around.


    Their owner¡¯s appearance was rather shabby¡ªtattered clothes, a face covered in dust, and disheveled hair. This messy sight was enough to make the cleanliness-obsessed Mikmik bristle with irritation.


    Noticing the gazes of Witty and Paopao, Athena flicked each of their foreheads lightly.


    Mikmik, however, wasn¡¯t so gentle. It slapped both of them hard, annoyed at their stares. Mikmik cared a lot about its image and being scrutinized by Witty and Paopao made it uncomfortable, so it gave them a good beating to stop them from looking at it.


    Athena opened the door and headed to the workroom to check on Grey''s progress. After knocking for a while, she realized Grey wasn¡¯t there. She must have gone out.


    Unable to bear the sticky, grimy feeling any longer, Athena went to the washroom to clean up.


    After a long time, she put on her pajamas, feeling refreshed and comfortable. Her semi-wet hair hung down her back as she headed straight for her little vegetable garden. The vegetables had all been harvested and were no longer growing; only the trees bore plump fruits.


    The plant fairies were playing among the trees, but when they saw Athena, they quickly hid, afraid.


    Athena didn¡¯t mind. She reached up and plucked a mutated orange from the tree. It felt heavy in her hand.


    Peeling it gently, she placed a juicy segment in her mouth. The sweet juice exploded, filling her mouth with a fresh, delightful flavor that soothed her weary body and mind.


    She picked a few more and strolled over to the low wall. The thorny vines, noticing her arrival, instantly came to life, dancing joyfully and blooming with five-colored flowers.


    Just a gentle touch from Athena on the petals made them so happy that they could hardly contain themselves.


    On her way back, Athena tried offering the oranges to Prince and Princess, but they both shook their heads, refusing the fruit. They just stayed close to her.


    Athena wondered if Prince and Princess were of a lower rank than the other three little ones; otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t be unable to eat and would just stay by the door.


    After comforting them as well, she felt she had greeted everyone in her little home.


    She sat by the fire, peeling an orange for herself while watching the flames dance in the stove.


    Her system backpack had returned to normal, filled with countless items exchanged from the yellow giant bee. She wasn¡¯t in a hurry to sort through these things.


    As she sat by the fire, watching the three little ones play, Mikmik, noticing her cleanliness, also wanted to wash up. Athena let it go and asked it to take Witty and Paopao along. Although Mikmik seemed reluctant, it honestly took both of them.


    Athena could already imagine the three of them playing with water.


    "Clean up after you''re done!" she called after them, making the three little ones pause briefly before they continued running out without a care.


    Sitting by the fire, Athena felt like something was still missing. Suddenly, she remembered the lounge chair she had made earlier. She looked around the room and found it in a corner. Dragging it over, she placed a thin blanket on top and lay down.


    The comfortable warmth gradually dried her hair. Meanwhile, she opened the regional chat channel.


    It was as lively as ever.


    - What the heck? Why did it suddenly end? What about my ranking?


    - I should have left that damned place ages ago. I almost died there.


    - What was that huge mass of black fog at the end? It scared the life out of me! Just as the giant bees left, we had to deal with that fog.


    - So soon? Wasn''t there another day left? How did it end? Did we win or did Region 003 win?


    - No idea, the system is still calculating. How can it be so slow? It''s worse than when our school used to tally exam scores. We got our results right after the exams! This system is so unreliable!


    - Haha, but I have a feeling we won.


    Seeing the noisy chatter in the chat channel, Athena closed the system panel, gradually closed her eyes, and fell into a deep sleep.


    Mikmik, along with Witty and Paopao, were splashing around in the water, showing no signs of the typical cat''s fear of water. In fact, among the three grassballs, Mikmik was having the most fun. Witty and Paopao, now soaked, couldn''t match Mikmik¡¯s energy.


    Paopao, feeling wronged, curled up into a ball, sulking and turning away. But it couldn¡¯t escape the water''s assault and eventually turned back, pouncing down and sending a huge splash that soaked the other two from head to toe. Mikmik grinned widely, pleased with itself.


    Once they were done causing mischief, Mikmik finally left the water, shaking itself dry. Each of them carried a small bowl, using the water from the pool to water the plants and trees, leaving only what they couldn''t scoop up.


    After cleaning up, they dared to return to the room. Standing obediently at the door, they waited for Athena to scold them, but hearing no sound, they carefully approached the fire and found her already asleep.


    Without returning to their own nests, they curled up around Athena by the fire and fell asleep.


    A small figure darted through the darkness, glancing back now and then. Several monsters were chasing her, eyes filled with greed.


    Her greenish skin and small stature belied a sense of steadiness and experience. She was dressed in a simple grass skirt, and while running, she swiftly pulled three arrows from the quiver at her waist.


    In a fluid motion, she turned sideways, drew her bow, and shot all three arrows simultaneously, each one streaking towards the pursuing monsters like lightning. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The whole process was seamless and impressive. Two of the arrows were dodged but managed to slow the monsters down, while the third hit one monster directly in the eye, making it stop and howl in pain.


    Grey seized the opportunity to speed up, rushing back until she saw the familiar shelter, finally allowing herself to relax.


    But her relief was short-lived as she quickly grew wary. Someone had been here; there was an unfamiliar scent in the yard.


    After a careful sniff, she realized it was Athena and was a bit surprised. Knowing it was her, Grey felt reassured.


    "I really shouldn¡¯t go out during the dark hours."


    She had delayed her return while gathering supplies and ended up being surrounded by monsters as soon as darkness fell, only managing to return now.


    Dragging her wounded body back to the workroom, she hastily bandaged herself and passed out before she could properly tend to her injuries.

 Chapter 95: Rewards

    Chapter 95: RewardsAt dawn, Athena realized she had fallen asleep in the reclining chair last night, a thin blanket draped over her, and her hair already dry and loosely tied up.


    The three little ones were still asleep, huddled together. She gently removed the blanket and placed it back on the bed without waking them.


    Sitting on the bed, she opened her system panel. Her backpack interface was now filled with many new items she had acquired on this trip.


    Her mailbox was also overflowing with packages from the system.


    Red dots were all over her system panel, indicating many unread notifications from last night.


    [Congratulations to player [ Big Dream ] for securing first place in the regional battle!]


    [Rewards have been sent to your mailbox. Please collect them!]


    Regional Battle Rewards:


    First Place: Redemption Earrings (Equipment), 5 Silver Packages, 3 World Stones


    [Region 003 surviving players: 37. Your faction''s surviving players: 49. Calculating...]


    Regional Subsidy: 5 Flashing Blue Packages, 6 White Packages, 106 Silver Coins


    [Congratulations to the players for completing the faction''s hidden mission. Rewards have been sent to your mailbox. Please collect them!]


    Hidden Mission Reward: Berry''s Image


    Berry''s Image:


    Category: CardAttribute: When encountering danger, summon an ally¡¯s image for 30 seconds with 30% of the original''s combat power.Quality: RareDurability: 11


    Athena carefully claimed all these rewards, laying them out on the floor. Among them were 5 Silver Packages, 3 World Stones, 5 Flashing Blue Packages, 6 White Packages, and 106 Silver Coins.


    This was the first time she possessed so many packages, yet she refrained from opening them immediately. Instead, she reviewed the items she had traded from the yellow giant bees.


    Giant Bee Honey: 10kgGiant Bee Stingers: 50Temporary Giant Bee Wings: 3 pairsTemporary Giant Bee Shield: 1 useYellow Hive Queen''s Private Precision Instruments: 1 setYellow Hive Queen''s Private Contract Papers: 30 sheetsYellow Hive Queen''s Skill Extraction (Common): 1 use


    Athena never expected to find even the Hive Queen''s private stash in their warehouse, which she managed to steal.


    What intrigued her most was the Yellow Hive Queen''s skill extraction item, which allowed her to extract one of Berry''s skills. Unfortunately, the extracted skill would be of much lower quality, only at a common level. However, considering it was a Yellow Hive Queen''s skill, it undoubtedly had great growth potential.


    As she fiddled with the items, the three little ones by the fireplace slowly woke up. They ran over to her, eyeing her packages with envy. Previously, the packages they obtained from defeating monsters were all ordinary white ones, which Athena let them handle. If they found food, it became their private stash; if they found building materials, they stored them in the room.


    These three had developed a liking for opening packages, but she held them back.


    "No, you can''t touch these packages," she said, though she handed them six of the white packages. The three dragged them off to the other side.


    Looking at the remaining packages, Athena felt a heavy weight. Last time, her luck had been exceptional, but luck couldn''t always be on her side. She suspected she had used up her good fortune in her previous attempt.


    She decided to try her luck with one of the flashing blue packages. With a nervous heart, she opened it, but it didn''t flash. Her heart sank.


    [Defense Turret Blueprint - Basic 1]


    She was familiar with this blueprint. Taking a deep breath, she asked the system, "System, why didn''t the flashing package flash?"


    [Flashing packages have a high probability of containing rare items of the tier, but it is not guaranteed.]


    She could only comfort herself, thinking it was just a fluke. After a mental pep talk, she opened another flashing blue package.


    [Defense Turret Blueprint - Basic 1]


    She remained silent. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It''s okay, just building up my luck," she thought, "Bad luck can''t last forever."


    She opened another package...


    [Defense Turret Blueprint - Basic 1]


    Life always seems to challenge disbelief. She opened the fourth package, which finally contained something different, though not much better.


    [Wood: 150, Stone: 150, Weeds: 300]


    Four consecutive packages without a single rare item! Her luck was indeed extraordinary, albeit in the wrong direction.


    She stopped opening packages and put everything away. Noticing the curious eyes of the three little ones, she nonchalantly stood up from the bed, pretending nothing had happened.


    Today was clearly not a good day for opening packages.


    She opened the door to go outside and get some fresh air, but noticed bloodstains on the ground. The scattered drops led to the workshop. This was her territory, and she knew Grey had returned. Assuming she was resting, she hadn¡¯t disturbed Grey. However, seeing the blood, she guessed Grey was badly injured.


    She rushed to the workshop, knocked on the door, and received no response. Pushing the door open, she found Grey lying on the floor, looking worse than when she returned from the regional battlefield yesterday.


    Athena hurried to help her, but heard her steady breathing, not typical of someone severely injured.


    She was just fast asleep. Although her body was covered in blood, there were no wounds. She wore a green bracelet similar to the goblin bracelet Athena had previously acquired, though with a different function. Grey''s father had obviously equipped her with many good items, relieving Athena unnecessary worry.


    Even in deep sleep, Grey woke up to find Athena standing beside her, startling her into jumping up.


    "You''re back? It was too late last night, so I didn''t disturb you. How did things go?" Athena asked.


    "Not bad," she replied.


    Though they lived under the same roof, they didn¡¯t share many common topics. Athena noticed the room filled with bows and arrows, Grey''s hard work.


    Seeing Athena''s gaze, Grey proudly placed her hands on her hips.


    "While you were away, I didn¡¯t slack off one bit! There are 50 bows here, each equipped with 50 arrows!"

 Short Announcement

Short Announcement S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 96: Level 4 Shelter

    Chapter 96: Level 4 ShelterBows were piled densely in one corner of the room, a chaotic yet orderly arrangement.


    Athena Ravencroft picked up one bow, testing its feel. Though it couldn¡¯t compare to her prized Moonlight Bow, its quality was adequate for regular use. Given the limited materials, producing such a standard was commendable. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡°Thank you, you¡¯ve worked hard,¡± Athena said with a smile to Grey.


    Grey waved her hand dismissively. ¡°It¡¯s nothing, just helping each other out.¡± Despite her modesty, she had quite an appetite. During Athena''s absence, Grey often ate the most.


    Every time Paopao finished cooking, he sometimes had to prepare extra portions just for her, making her feel quite embarrassed.


    Initially, the plan was to pair each bow with 30 arrows. However, under Paopao¡¯s increasingly resentful gaze, they increased it to 50 arrows per bow.


    Athena stored all the bows and arrows in her system backpack, ready to list them on the trading panel for sale. She was confident they would be a hit.


    Each bow, paired with 50 arrows, was priced at five silver coins. The production cost didn¡¯t exceed 50 copper coins, but handmade items were always the most expensive.


    No wonder Paopao had become the little steward. Despite Athena being away for a short while, he had already reheated yesterday¡¯s leftovers.


    He now emerged to find Athena, signaling it was time for dinner. Seeing him, Grey quickly followed, walking even faster than Athena.


    Despite being leftovers, the porridge tasted just as delicious. If there was any drawback, it was that Grey didn¡¯t get enough to eat.


    Fortunately, Athena handed her several oranges afterward. After eating, she greeted everyone and hurried off.


    Typically, she would go out after breakfast and only return for dinner, usually working even after the evening meal.


    Athena never questioned her about her outings; this was part of their initial agreement.


    Athena provided lodging and food, and Grey crafted items in return. During the day, she was free to adventure on her own.


    Clearly, the barrier trapping Athena and the others didn¡¯t hinder her movements.


    ¡¾ New System Feature Added! Prestige System Activated. Click to View! ¡¿


    A prestige system? If not for the occasional glimpse of her 15 prestige points on the system panel, Athena would have forgotten about prestige entirely.


    Surprisingly, following the regional battle, the system formally introduced this feature.


    Clicking on it brought up another system window, detailing the prestige system.


    ¡¾ Prestige System


    Player: Big Dream


    Prestige Points: 15 ¡¿


    ¡¾ Description: Achieving a certain number of prestige points unlocks special system permissions. The prestige system includes a unique prestige shop where items can only be purchased once a certain prestige level is reached. ¡¿


    ¡¾ Based on your ranking and performance in the regional battle, you¡¯ve gained 150 prestige points! ¡¿


    Athena''s prestige points now totaled 165, enabling her to access the prestige system.


    The first item available for purchase was the World Stone.


    ¡¾ World Stone ¡¿


    Price: 200 Prestige Points


    ¡¾ Ancient Tree Branch ¡¿


    Price: 250 Prestige Points


    Despite all her experiences, Athena still didn¡¯t have enough prestige points to buy a World Stone. Clicking on the Ancient Tree Branch, she couldn¡¯t even view its attributes and even description of it.


    Wasn¡¯t this just a pure gamble?


    Below was a refresh button, which she hesitated before clicking.


    Athena stood before the shimmering panel, weighing her options.


    ¡¾ Would you like to spend 10 reputation points for a refresh? ¡¿


    "No"


    She couldn''t afford it. It seemed she needed to earn not just silver coins but reputation points as well.


    Today, the only bright spot had been the resources she gathered in the Black Forest and the shelter upgrade blueprint she found. Although her house had grown significantly larger, her possessions had also multiplied, and space was becoming an issue.


    Grey occupied one of the workrooms, and now that she had her own equipment, she needed a workspace for alchemical practices and potion making.


    ¡¾Would you like to use the shelter upgrade blueprint? The shelter will upgrade to level 4!¡¿


    ¡¾Consume: Stone x500, Wood x500, Grass x500 and Ore x200?¡¿


    "Yes"


    Athena and her three companions stood in the courtyard as the familiar light engulfed them. The house expanded again, much larger than before.


    The low stone walls became more refined, fitting together perfectly without gaps, and rose to a height of two meters. The simple wooden gate transformed into an ornate, tall iron gate, exuding both grandeur and elegance.


    The stone house now had two stories, resembling a quaint countryside villa. The small wooden huts on either side also upgraded to stone houses, with an additional larger stone house serving as a warehouse.


    In the courtyard, her vegetable garden gained a unique canopy, protecting it from monster attacks and ensuring better plant growth.


    The two-story house''s door had a modern touch, painted pure white with intricate patterns, and its weight was evident when pushed open. Inside, the style shifted to a refined medieval European aesthetic, with an air of noble elegance.


    Athena''s two small fireplaces had finally been upgraded, each set into the walls, surrounded by iron railings, and connected to internal chimneys that vented smoke outside.


    The familiar bed was replaced by a luxurious European-style sofa set, with two small sofas and a large one in shades of brown and grey, adorned with exquisite tasseled cushions. A large, plush carpet covered the floor, complementing the furniture with its high-quality feel despite its simple design.


    Beside the sofas stood a tea table with a set of European teaware and a tray of sweets. A candle holder held a luminous candle, adding a warm glow to the room.


    The three pets'' corner had transformed into an elaborate climbing frame integrated into the wall, complete with padded compartments resembling tiny houses, each with its own section.


    The only unchanged elements on this floor were the two small windows. Though their style remained the same, they blended seamlessly with the new decor.


    Ascending the wooden spiral staircase to the second floor, Athena found a beautifully crafted wooden door leading to her room. Inside, a large European-style bed, an independent wardrobe, and a dressing table awaited her. The room also had three small animal beds, clearly intended for her companions.


    The second floor retained the brown and grey color scheme but featured more intricate patterns and decorations. Two other wooden doors connected to her workspace and the bathroom. This area had been specially reinforced, ensuring it was fireproof and explosion-resistant.


    This new home was far superior to her previous one, even luxurious. The only incongruity was her old bedding still on the bed.


    Everything else had changed, so why not the bedding too?


    Athena felt the system''s mischievous streak for the first time.

 Chapter 97: Simulation Once Again

    Chapter 97: Simulation Once AgainAfter thoroughly reviewing the layout of the house, she returned to the first floor and sat on the sofa.


    She opened the system panel.


    ¡¾ Regional Chat Interface ¡¿


    ¡°This is truly a win without lifting a finger. Sitting at home, rewards just rain down on us!¡±


    ¡°The rewards are incredible, hahaha!¡±


    ¡°Many died in their regional battle. There were two hundred of them initially, but now only a few dozen remain!¡±


    ¡°I wonder what rewards they got. It must be better than ours.¡±


    ¡°Ugh, so annoying. I bet it won¡¯t be long before we have to start grinding again. There goes my vacation!¡±


    ¡°Why did you have to remind me? I was having so much fun.¡±


    ¡°Hurry up and start grinding. I¡¯m bored to death here, chatting with you all is the only thing to do.¡±


    ¡°The system says: Your wish is my command. Hahaha.¡±


    Athena only skimmed through the messages. She sat comfortably on the soft sofa, her feet resting on a plush carpet, and opened her inventory.


    ¡¾ Use Queen Bee Skill Extraction? Yes/No ¡¿


    "Yes"


    Combining her previous gains, she now had over three hundred silver coins, enough for three scenario simulations.


    During her time in the massive yellow hive, her body underwent a purification process. It made her feel closer to breaking through a barrier she couldn''t quite see or touch¡ªa fragile yet unyielding obstruction.


    No matter how close she got, she could never truly reach it. Ultimately, she had to rely on the system¡¯s simulations to shatter this limit.


    ¡¾ Skill Extraction in Progress... ¡¿


    ¡¾ Extraction Successful! ¡¿


    ¡¾ War Queen ¡¿ Quality: Common (Non-upgradable)


    In times of war, as the queen on the battlefield, you stabilize morale, boost spirits, and enhance combat capabilities.


    When the number of teammates exceeds three, teammates receive a 10% mental strength boost and a courage buff.When the number of soldiers exceeds 500, soldiers become 50% immune to mental attacks, receive a courage buff, and gain +1 strength.


    This skill is specifically designed for war, making it an excellent ability, though primarily for teamwork and large-scale battles.


    Having more than 500 soldiers is a stringent condition, but when met, it would become Athena¡¯s ace in the hole.


    She moved her body lightly, stretching and relaxing every joint from head to toe.


    She slowly rotated her neck, then her shoulders, arms, waist, and legs.


    After a series of warm-up exercises¡ªjumping, squats, push-ups¡ªshe took out her black abyss axe, eyes resolutely fixed on a distant point, and sprinted forward.


    After several laps, she could feel her blood boiling.


    At that moment, she was fully prepared, ready to face any challenge.


    She opened the system¡¯s atlas interface and found the page for the Sun City. On the card, it was still a desolate ruin, with only a lone figure gazing into the distance.


    ¡¾ Use 100 Silver Coins for Scenario Simulation? Yes/No ¡¿


    "Yes"


    ¡¾ Please Choose Mode: 1. Challenge Mode, 2. Training Mode ¡¿


    This time, Athena chose differently. Without hesitation, she selected Challenge Mode. She wanted to break through this barrier.


    ¡¾ Note: In any mode, death ends the simulation! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Note: In Challenge Mode, the attributes of the opponents will suppress the player''s attribute point barrier state! ¡¿


    The sky was an endless expanse of darkness, pressing down on the world, while the ground was covered with countless Snowstorm Beasts.


    The Snowstorm Beasts moved in an orderly formation, resembling an unshakeable army, steadily advancing towards the opposing fortress walls.


    Athena blended into their ranks. As the Snowstorm Beasts passed her, they parted to create a path for her.


    From her vantage point, she could see a commanding figure on the fortress wall, working alone. Numerous turrets aimed downward, unleashing a barrage of firepower.


    Her goal this time was to reach the top, avoiding any interaction with the Snowstorm Beasts to prevent being entangled in a skirmish.


    History seemed to be repeating itself. With a light jump, she landed on a Snowstorm Beast''s head and used their bodies to propel herself forward.


    As she began moving towards the wall, the turrets, initially aimed at the Snowstorm Beasts, started to target her.


    Amid the intense barrage, not a single shot hit her. She weaved through the explosions, moving closer and closer to her goal.


    Despite not using any skills yet, she was moving as fast as she had the last time she used them.


    In the blink of an eye, she was at the wall.


    ¡¾ Approaching Wall, Activating Active Mode! ¡¿


    History echoed eerily as Alfred picked up a nearby bow and aimed at her once again.


    The arrow''s power was undiminished, but unlike the last time that ended in her death, this time, Athena successfully dodged the arrow.


    Simultaneously, she reached the gate.


    Her light body seemed weightless as she used the Snowstorm Beasts to spring herself up to the stone wall.


    Her black abyss axe struck the wall with force, her arm muscles bulging as she propelled herself upward, striking the wall again and dislodging some stones.


    Two powerful leaps brought her to the top edge of the wall.


    Suspended in mid-air, she exhaled and activated her skill.


    ¡¾ Skill Hunter Activated! ¡¿


    She moved like a nimble leopard, her body flexible and swift.


    The figure on the wall wasn''t merely a person but a monstrous presence capable of devouring others whole. His expression was calm, exuding an aura of unassailable authority.


    A slight swing of his massive sword radiated an immense sense of pressure and threat!


    Danger!!!


    As Athena''s hand grasped the edge of the wall, a giant sword swung at her, accompanied by a fierce gust of wind.


    Enhanced by her skill, she narrowly evaded and leaped onto the wall, dodging the strike.


    After numerous failures, she finally stood atop the high wall and saw Alfred clearly.


    Unlike their last encounter, he appeared much younger, his armor gleaming, and his grip on the massive sword exuded a formidable aura.


    He was no longer a mere commander but a master swordsman. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing Athena evade his strike, Alfred smiled¡ªa confident, victorious smile.


    He was spirited, exuding an air of absolute superiority.

 Chapter 98: Pyrrhic Victory

    Chapter 98: Pyrrhic VictoryThe area where the massive sword had swept through had turned into a pile of rubble.


    Athena didn''t remain in place. As soon as her feet hit the ground, she charged forward, determined to seize the initiative.


    Clearly, neither of them were the type to wait passively.


    Despite wearing heavy armor, Alfred moved with the grace of the wind, unburdened by its weight. His legs pushed off the ground with incredible force, propelling him forward like an arrow. His colossal sword was held horizontally before him, slashing forward with ferocious power.


    The black abyss axe in Athena''s hands glimmered with a deep, lustrous shine. Forged from the finest black iron, it was a weapon capable of growth. When it clashed with Alfred''s sword, both weapons emitted a resonant hum, neither yielding. The abyss axe''s glow intensified, becoming even darker and brighter¡ªa sight Athena had never seen before. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her arm tingled, and she lost feeling in her fingers gripping the axe handle. They both staggered back, but Athena retreated further. Alfred only took a single step back, his armor providing significant cushioning.


    As Athena lunged at him and blocked his massive sword, an unprecedented light flared in Alfred''s eyes. His gaze shifted from contempt to a spark of excitement.


    Athena''s arm had recovered. Even though Alfred''s attributes had been suppressed to match hers, his strength still surpassed hers. Realizing this, she aimed to exploit her agility, trying to create distance between them in their direct confrontations.


    Alfred saw through her intentions and immediately closed in, not giving her a moment''s respite.


    ¡¾ Commander Alfred activates Eye of Reconnaissance (Intermediate)! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Detection failed! ¡¿


    Not only were Alfred''s attributes suppressed, but so were his skills. Originally a high-level skill, Eye of Reconnaissance was now only at an intermediate level, and some of his abilities were completely sealed.


    For the first time, Athena failed a detection. Her information was now laid bare before Alfred''s eyes. He clearly understood her weaknesses and strengths, and the situation grew increasingly unfavorable for her.


    When Alfred closed the distance again, Athena did not retreat. She swung her black abyss axe fiercely at his neck. Alfred''s giant sword did not pause either. If struck, she would be cleaved in two, but at the same time, Alfred''s head would roll.


    Closer and closer, Athena could feel the cold air rushing towards her body. Her axe successfully landed on Alfred''s neck. It was a life-for-life exchange.


    Alfred had been waiting, waiting for Athena to flinch. No one wasn''t afraid of death, just like the countless people he had seen in his blurred memories. He was certain she would withdraw. It wasn''t until his neck started to bleed that he realized what a formidable opponent he was facing.


    He leaned back, narrowly evading the continuing arc of the black abyss axe, while simultaneously distancing his giant sword from Athena.


    She didn''t back down. She kicked Alfred in the abdomen. Even through his armor, the force penetrated, impacting his insides.


    Still in his leaning position, Alfred was kicked in the stomach by Athena. Using his footing, he twisted his body in an awkward posture, planting one foot firmly while the other lashed out at Athena''s head.


    Athena couldn''t dodge in time. She raised her arm to block. The heavy blow landed on her arm, and she heard the sound of her bones cracking!


    The force of the blow was so immense that she almost cried out and cortord her body in "<" shape, but she swallowed the pain down!


    Meanwhile, Alfred used the opportunity to spin, landing gracefully and regaining his balance.


    Their distance finally increased slightly, but only for a brief moment of respite. In close combat, Alfred wouldn¡¯t allow Athena to gain any significant distance, nor would he give her a chance to use her bow!


    Her arm throbbed with pain, the bones shattered. Gripping the black abyss axe, she launched another attack, their duel growing ever more intense. Their weapons clashed, each strike countered, while their free hands and feet played crucial roles in the battle.


    Athena was at a disadvantage in defense. She lacked the high-quality armor Alfred wore. Yet, even with his superior armor, Alfred was under immense pressure. He had to protect the unarmored parts of his body carefully, for any lapse would invite a deadly strike from Athena¡¯s axe.


    The heavy armor that protected Alfred also slowed him down, giving Athena an edge in maneuverability. If the battle dragged on, neither side would be able to decisively overcome the other¡ªsomething neither Athena nor Alfred desired!


    They fought like two wild beasts, unrestrained, tearing into each other with ferocity. Trading blows, Athena seized a moment when Alfred dodged, aiming her bow and arrow at his armpit while half-crouching!


    Alfred delivered a brutal elbow strike to her back.


    "Argh!!!"


    Athena shifted slightly, avoiding a direct hit to her spine. The blow still landed on her back, making her organs tremble. She spat out a mouthful of blood, the metallic taste spreading in her mouth.


    She stabbed the black abyss axe into the ground, rolled away, and quickly got back up.


    Alfred wasn¡¯t unscathed either. The arrow from the Moonlight Bow had pierced his armpit, embedding deep into his arm. Blood flowed freely, his arm nearly useless, and the moonlight¡¯s power began to spread within him, worsening his condition over time.


    As Athena''s injuries worsened, she avoided head-on clashes, engaging in a tactical battle instead. Alfred¡¯s strength meant the moonlight''s power took longer to infiltrate him. He repeatedly attacked, his giant sword a whirlwind of strikes, giving Athena no breathing room.


    However, his movements were increasingly restricted as he tried to protect his armpit and neck, forcing Athena to dodge repeatedly.


    Noticing his body stiffening and a strange power rampaging inside him, Alfred¡¯s excitement turned to seriousness. He abruptly stopped his assault, his aura growing more terrifying, muscles bulging under his armor.


    ¡¾ Opponent has used Skill: Decisive Battle! ¡¿


    Without needing a prompt, Athena charged with her black abyss axe, pouring all her strength into the weapon, maximizing the skill''s effect.


    She swung at his neck, unable to halt the momentum. His armor seemed fused with his body, leaving only his face vulnerable. Athena gritted her teeth, not giving up, as she slashed down!


    Alfred¡¯s raised sword offered her no escape unless she retreated, but she seized the opportunity. The black abyss axe came down, and Alfred leaned back, calculating the distance so she couldn¡¯t reach him.


    His sword, though slightly off due to his movement, struck true, severing Athena¡¯s bruised arm. Blood spurted out, staining the ground red.


    Simultaneously, Athena''s black abyss axe did not touch him. Instead, she switched to the Moonlight Bow, driving an arrow into his eye.


    The arrow penetrated half his skull, and Athena twisted it further!


    Both fell simultaneously. Alfred''s remaining eye filled with disbelief, his consciousness fading. He tried to charge forward with his sword, but halfway through, his vision dimmed completely, and he stood frozen.


    Athena collapsed, her body wracked with pain, unable to speak. Her internal organs were damaged, her arm severed, and blood continuously gushed from her mouth, clouding her mind.


    Even though she won, it felt more like a pyrrhic victory.


    ¡¾ Challenge Success! ¡¿


    They both died in the end.

 Chapter 99: Breakthrough!

    Chapter 99: Breakthrough!¡¾ Congratulations! You have defeated the opponent. Attribute points can now exceed the limit! ¡¿


    The system notification echoed in her ears, but Athena''s blood continued to flow, and soon she felt everything go black as she lost consciousness.


    When she opened her eyes again, she was back in her room. Reaching out, she no longer felt warm blood but the soft fabric of her sofa. The warmth of the fire slowly revived her, the sensation of blood loss lingering vividly.


    During her battle with Alfred, she had completely forgotten it was just a simulated scenario. Her only thought was survival. Despite her efforts, the outcome had been mutual destruction. Fortunately, it was merely a simulation; otherwise, she would have died on that cold city wall regardless of victory.


    Her mission had been a success. Though slightly different from her expectations, the result was positive. She had saved hundreds of silver coins, allowing her to purchase more supplies.


    ¡¾ Please ensure you are within a safe range! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Barrier breakthrough will commence in three minutes! ¡¿


    ¡¾ The pod has been delivered to your mailbox. Please place it securely! ¡¿


    Urgent, blood-red notifications flashed repeatedly. Frowning, Athena opened the system panel and saw the pod mentioned in the email. It resembled a futuristic gaming pod, sleek and silver, exuding a sense of power. Placing it on the carpet, the glass cover automatically opened, inviting her inside.


    ¡¾ Please enter the pod! ¡¿


    Athena took a deep breath. Everything she had done led to this moment. Without hesitation, she climbed in and lay down. The glass cover slowly closed. The interior was lined with soft leather, providing a sense of comfort and tranquility.


    The pod was spacious, easily accommodating her, and could even fit two people. She then felt a viscous liquid rising from the bottom, gradually submerging her hands, then her body, until her entire face was underwater.


    Despite being submerged, she could breathe easily, feeling as if she were floating among clouds. Just as she was drifting, numerous tubes with needles emerged, snakelike in their agility, inserting themselves into various parts of her body. They began to pump an unknown fluid into her veins. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Suddenly, Athena felt a violent sense of suffocation. Her eyes snapped open, mouth agape, and she tried to push away, only to be restrained by the tubes. This transformation was more thorough and painful than any previous remolding of her flesh and bones.


    The clear viscous liquid gradually turned blood-red. She could see nothing but crimson. Pain radiated from every part of her body, her pulse racing beyond normal limits.


    "Thump, thump, thump!" Her heart pounded more urgently, blood surging as if it would explode the next moment.


    At a certain moment, her heart suddenly stopped, then resumed its normal rhythm. The pain in Athena''s body gradually receded, ebbing away like a tide.


    The glass cover of the pod opened, and Athena sat up abruptly, pressing her hands against the walls of the pod. She clutched her chest, gasping for breath. Glancing down, she saw that she was completely dry, with no traces of blood. The mysterious liquid and tubes inside the pod had vanished.


    Paopao and the others, who had been standing by, watched her curiously. Athena looked around, noting that everything seemed unchanged, though she felt different. Once she stepped out of the pod, it was automatically retrieved by the system.


    ¡¾ Barrier breakthrough complete! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Congratulations to player Big Dream for becoming the first player in this region to break through the barrier. Reputation increased by 100 points! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Announce to the entire region? Yes/No ¡¿


    "No"


    Athena assessed her body, feeling no significant changes. She lightly tapped her toes on the ground and effortlessly leaped to the other side of the room without making a sound. Unlike previous power-ups, this time her increased strength felt natural and seamlessly integrated.


    She opened her system panel and saw that the plus signs had reappeared next to her attributes, indicating she could upgrade them again. Her accumulated potential had resulted in a higher attribute point increase than before.


    Simultaneously, her Hunter title, crucial in regional battles, had turned permanently gray from overuse. Reflecting on the numerous giant bees and monsters she had slain, she noticed the system hadn''t awarded her any experience points. She allocated her remaining experience points evenly across her attributes.


    Name: Athena


    Experience: 50


    Title: Proactive Warrior


    Race: Human


    Gender: Female


    Strength: 6 (¡ü)


    Speed: (¡ü)


    Agility: (¡ü)


    Mental Power: (¡ü)


    Skills:


    Enhance lv6 (¡ü1): Adds strength to weapons, causing an extra 10 points of damage per attribute point. Low chance to inflict severe injury, very low chance to trigger an instant kill.


    Hunter lv6 (¡ü1): Enhances leg power, increasing burst speed by 20%. Cooldown: 10 hours per use.


    Flexible lv5: Greatly increases body flexibility, allowing for complex maneuvers and minor facial bone adjustments.


    Calm Mind lv5: Quickly calms the user at any time, resisting mental debuffs during combat, and increasing efficiency by 15% out of combat. Cooldown: 24 hours, Duration: 2 hours.


    War Queen (Non-upgradable): When the number of teammates exceeds 3, they receive a 10% boost in mental power and a courage buff. When commanding over 500 soldiers, they become 50% resistant to mental attacks, gain a courage buff, and +1 to strength.


    As expected, familiar pain returned, but Athena was much more composed this time. She leaned back on the sofa, realizing that training her mental power through fireball exercises had led to the fastest growth in this attribute.


    She tested her previously uncoordinated limbs, finding that the more control she had over her body, the less time she needed to adapt to the new power. In less than a minute, she had fully adjusted and integrated the new strength.


    The three little creatures huddled around her, bored. She glanced at her backpack, filled with arrows and remaining silver coins, realizing she was wealthy once again.

 Chapter 100: Athena’s Unease

    Chapter 100: Athena¡¯s UneaseFamiliar with the system''s trading interface, though it felt like ages since she last saw it.


    ¡¾ Arrows ¡¿


    Price: 5 silver coins


    Description: Comes with arrows of excellent quality. You can inspect them yourself to avoid getting ripped off.


    After putting items up for sale, all that was left was to wait.


    Athena''s trading stall continued to attract attention, especially since she was the top player in their region. Plus, everything she had sold before was highly practical.


    People came intermittently to inspect her offerings.


    She still had three blueprints for basic defense turrets in her hands. Thinking about the numerous packages in the system backpack made her hands itch again.


    She took out another flashing green package, and this time, the flash was finally normal!


    ¡¾ Ice Defense Tower - Basic! ¡¿


    This relieved her greatly, feeling more stimulating than going into battle when opening packages.


    Should she strike while the iron was hot?


    Suddenly, thinking of something she possessed, she took out a delicate mirror.


    Maybe it had never imagined that such a mysterious and eerie item would one day be used to test luck.


    Silently asking within her mind.


    Soon, mysterious words appeared on the mirror''s surface. Because the question was so simple, they almost instantly appeared.


    Bad luck!


    After confirming several times, Athena put it back into her system backpack along with the five silver packages she had eagerly taken out.


    Leaving the house, she took out her three basic defense turret blueprints, still lined up row by row. Then, she combined these three into one intermediate defense turret.


    Placing the Ice Defense Tower beside it, its appearance resembled the Fire Defense Tower, only with frost patterns instead of flames.


    Despite the walls around the yard being higher, Athena still hadn''t solved her need for aerial defense.


    But there was nothing she could do about it; after all, aerial defense was something you stumbled upon rather than sought out.


    The weather outside remained calm and pleasant, but Athena couldn''t shake her unease.


    ''It feels like a storm is coming. That... I don''t know.''


    After the several attacks following the Snowstorm Beast, things had returned to normal. However, the system had initiated a regional war and even allowed other players to rest for three days.


    The next attack wouldn''t be easy for them.


    The previous warnings Athena had received:


    ¡¾ Merfolk ¡¿


    Level 8


    Strength 13


    Defense 11


    Skills: Waves, Singing, Bite, Tail Strike


    ¡¾ Note: Merfolk are intelligent beings! ¡¿


    Dealing with these monsters, which were completely different from the normal units they had faced before, was challenging. These creatures possessed considerable intelligence and formidable individual combat abilities.


    Maybe even more powerful than the queen bees!


    As sharks naturally inhabited the sea, all their skills were closely tied to the ocean. If these skills were somehow restricted by leaving the sea, the purple font wouldn''t fail to warn.


    Thinking of this, Athena finally understood where her unease stemmed from.


    Who could have imagined that such serene weather would reveal an inexplicable vast ocean deep within these woods?


    Even Athena felt uncertain. If it was just her imagination, that would be fine. But what if it was real?


    Based on the last incident, the system provided a three-day advance warning. Although this time there was no warning, most players were granted three days of rest.


    But when had the system ever been so benevolent?


    Back in her room, this thought plunged her deeper into contemplation, prompting her to open the system panel.


    ¡¾ System Store ¡¿


    Ship Seal


    No need for more words. The first search term displayed it. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena dared not imagine the scene if her home were flooded. In an icy wasteland, she could rely on heating supplies to cope.


    But how would she manage against an inundation, possibly submerging her shelter, the very place she relied on for survival? Though the system might not truly allow shelters to flood.


    However, this time it truly felt like being cornered, and they, the players including Athena, were the trapped animals waiting to be culled.


    Further contemplation before everything started was now futile. It was better to act decisively.


    ¡¾ System Store ¡¿


    Peach Tree Mutation


    Price: 30 silver coins


    Description: Plant it. If you live long enough, you might enjoy sweet and delicious peaches. Long-term consumption of mutated fruits will bring unexpected changes to the body.


    Cabbage Seeds


    Price: 2 copper coins


    Description: Delicious large cabbage. Who wouldn''t want to eat them?


    Carrot Seeds


    Price: 5 copper coins


    Description: Rich in beta-carotene. Come and replenish your nutrients.


    She bought some new seeds and arrived at her small vegetable garden.


    Though the garden had expanded, the number of plant spirits had not increased, so Athena didn''t buy many seeds.


    The plant spirits were still wary of Athena, but they were starting to get used to her. Without Paopao''s company, they wouldn''t have stuck around.


    Scattering these seeds, they quickly sank into the ground and, under the spirits'' influence, sprouted forth.


    Seeing this scene, so full of life and magic once again, Athena couldn''t help but feel moved.


    As for Grey, who knows where she ran off to? According to Paopao, she would return by dinnertime.


    It had been a long time since she had gone chopping wood. Originally, she intended to take all three with her, but unfortunately, Mikmik was particularly resistant, having just cleaned its fur not long ago.


    In the end, Athena only took Paopao and Witty with her.


    Paopao, after growing larger, had put away the fierceness in its eyes, as well as its sharp claws and teeth.


    Athena lay comfortably on its grassy back; its fur was not prickly but soft and comforting.


    Holding onto it was like hugging a giant stuffed toy. Paopao walked steadily, and Athena lay on its back, gazing at the sky.


    Encountering any small animals, Witty chased them away. Its rabbit legs kicked the animals'' faces, sending them flying several meters away.


    Athena wasn''t just admiring the scenery; she kept an eye on the surrounding vegetation, looking for herbs to make fireburst balls and potions.


    With her current resources, she no longer needed to chop wood herself, but one should never forget one''s roots, right?


    If she spotted a tree she particularly liked or if any tree obstructed her view, she would personally chop it down.


    After all, it wouldn''t take long for them to grow back.


    Thus, after circling outside for a while, she did gain some harvest, although it certainly couldn''t compare to the materials the giant bees inside the Black Forest had brought her.


    But even one or two of these materials were already quite rare here.


    Hugging the lazy Paopao in her arms, only Witty, this guy, was playing too much and didn''t want to go back. After being taught a lesson by Athena, it obediently hopped and jumped back home.

 Chapter 101: Ocean And Tides Begin!

    Chapter 101: Ocean And Tides Begin!Giant honeycombs make for a perfect dessert. Sweet yet not overwhelming, they are a delightful treat that also benefits health and improves physical condition when consumed in moderation.


    Once again, Grey was late. No one knew what she was busy with lately, but even the most punctual dinner time couldn''t ensure her timely return. Each time she came back, she carried a few new wounds. Thankfully, she had items that could heal her injuries, or else she might have faced far more dire consequences.


    Upon returning, she quickly grabbed her bowl and spoon, hastily eating a bowl of rice. Just as she was about to retreat to her workshop, she noticed the honey. With Athena''s permission, she took a generous spoonful before making her way.


    "Athena, is it okay if I stay in the shelter for the next couple of days? I can¡¯t seem to get out," Grey asked, her tone filled with curiosity.


    Athena called out to her, stopping her in her tracks. "Stay in the shelter for the next couple of days. It''s too dangerous outside."


    Grey turned, a puzzled expression on her face. It wasn''t that she didn''t trust Athena, but the request seemed unusual.


    Seeing her confusion, Athena explained, "The weather might be problematic."


    Though unsure whether to attribute it to environmental or weather conditions, Grey realized Athena was expressing concern for her. She flashed a bright smile, her pristine white teeth glinting as she patted her chest confidently.


    "A little bad weather is nothing for us goblins!" With that, she lightly closed the door and returned to her workshop. Living and eating at someone else¡¯s place meant her work had to be completed daily.


    Athena pondered for a moment but decided not to elaborate. Who would believe her anyway? In time, Grey would get used to it.


    ¡¾ Darkness is descending upon the world in 10...9...8...0 ¡¿


    As another bout of darkness approached, Athena sat on the carpet, leaning against the sofa, a bowl of hot soup in her hands, her demeanor relaxed and content.


    In stark contrast to her calmness was the system¡¯s incessant stream of warnings, relentless and unending.


    ¡¾ Cold wave incoming! ¡¿


    The system interface turned a glaring red, filled with warnings.


    ¡¾ Respawn points will no longer be randomly reset, prepare for battle ¡¿


    ¡¾ Due to irresistible forces, special monsters will reappear tomorrow! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Due to irresistible forces, monsters will bring the ocean with them, prepare for defense! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Due to irresistible forces, the shelter will temporarily switch to floating mode upon the ocean¡¯s arrival! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Due to irresistible forces, game difficulty has increased significantly! Subsidies are being issued, please check your mail for details! ¡¿


    Facing another unexpected event from the system, Athena remained unperturbed. If not for the system¡¯s reminder about the package reorganization, she might have almost forgotten about it.


    She couldn¡¯t pinpoint when her luck began to sour, but these random package reorganizations had become increasingly elusive to her.


    Still, she was quite curious about how this lush forest would transform into a vast ocean.


    Opening the door, the outside world was no different from the usual darkness that came with these events¡ªpitch black, with visibility reduced to nothing. Holding a luminous candle, she stepped outside.


    There was nothing unusual outside¡ªno sudden weather changes, no rain, no unexpected snow or wind. Just the tranquil and silent forest shrouded in darkness.


    As she walked to the courtyard gate, seawater began surging from within the forest, rapidly flooding the area. In no time, a thin layer of water reached the front of Athena¡¯s courtyard.


    Interestingly, the seawater wasn¡¯t absorbed by the ground at all. It seemed as if there was an invisible barrier separating the water from the earth, causing it to float above without ever touching the surface.


    As the seawater reached the courtyard¡¯s edge, the entire shelter, including the ground it stood on, began to tremble slightly.


    "...?!"


    The edge where Athena stood traced a curved line, isolating the shelter from the outside world.


    With more water flooding in, the system¡¯s promise of the shelter switching to floating mode was coming true. Remarkably, this vast shelter could be buoyed up by the shallow sea.


    Athena could even feel the shelter gradually rising, ever so slightly, detaching from the ground.


    The once-dense forest was being isolated, and by tomorrow, it might become an underwater forest.


    She stood outside for a while, waiting for a tiny mail carrier to deliver a message.


    She wondered if the Lost Soul had any way of knowing she had returned today. Normally, she would still be on the battlefield of the regional war.


    In the distance, she spotted a small light¡ªso tiny, about the size of a fingernail, yet impossibly bright and noticeable in the dark night.


    A small paper boat, carrying a tiny lantern, sailed towards Athena. Inside the boat was a tiny figure, tirelessly rowing.


    The scene was so cute that Athena tried to control her laughter, not wanting to mock the relentless effort of the Lost Soul just to uphold their contract.


    Athena waits for more than 5 minutes.


    It was the Lost Soul indeed, cursing and muttering in a language Athena couldn¡¯t understand as he struggled to maneuver the boat.


    When he finally reached the courtyard gate, gasping for air, he looked up at the towering Athena and handed her a parchment.


    There were no exchanges, no greetings between them.


    Athena took the parchment from his hand, and it unfurled and enlarged in her grasp.


    ¡°Oh, unlucky yet fortunate one, you are about to encounter a rare royal.¡±


    This was the most text Athena had ever seen on one of these parchments. Since discovering that the Lost Soul was the one writing these messages, he had taken liberties, expressing himself more freely within the limits of his ability.


    She pulled out a small wooden bowl she had specially carved, filled with honey, and handed it to the Lost Soul.


    Without hesitation, he hung the lantern at the boat¡¯s bow, reached out with both hands, and grabbed the bowl.


    The weight of the honey caused the small paper boat to sink momentarily, but it quickly floated back up. The Lost Soul turned away and paddled off in his tiny boat.


    The water level was only ankle-deep, yet he had somehow procured a boat, though his speed was a measly 2 meters per minute.


    Despite his malevolent nature, there was something endearing about him.


    As Athena turned to head back inside, she glimpsed the Lost Soul¡¯s boat swaying erratically in the wind, drifting off course.


    He struggled to keep the boat from capsizing, occasionally glancing back at Athena to see if she had noticed. Seeing her retreat, he sighed with relief. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡°So embarrassing¡­¡± he muttered.

 Chapter 102: Big Bear’s Request And Question

    Chapter 102: Big Bear¡¯s Request And QuestionThe characters on the parchment had scattered with the wind. She carefully wrapped it up again and placed it into her system backpack.


    After all, this thing itself was something rare and precious. Her only stable way of obtaining it so far was through the lost soul.


    The Royal Family? This hint was too obvious; tomorrow, Athena would likely encounter nothing but Merfolk.


    But the hints she had received previously clearly pointed to the Merfolk.


    ¡¾ Tomorrow, the monsters will be reorganized (Merfolk Royal Family)! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Please try to avoid direct conflicts, please avoid direct conflicts! ¡¿


    As the saying goes, it''s easier to change one''s face than to turn a page.


    The prompts in purple font have never been wrong, albeit delayed.


    As an intelligent creature, the Merfolk might be as communicative as giant bees, able to achieve cooperation.


    Unfortunately, Athena also wanted to avoid direct confrontation. However, the other party came specifically to destroy her base. Although she didn''t know what benefit these monsters would gain from doing so.


    But what benefit could Athena offer them?


    Her previous dealings with the Hive Queen were based on equal terms, demonstrating her strength to qualify for any transaction.


    Battle is inevitable, even the most cautious cannot foresee everything; there are always unexpected changes.


    Perhaps tomorrow, she could really try to talk her way out of it.


    If they were ordinary Merfolk, Athena would be willing to engage in a hearty battle. But these were the Royals.


    After all, this wasn''t a simulated scenario. If she really lost her limbs, she wouldn''t survive in the days to come.


    The only downside to floating on the sea is never knowing where you might drift. Moreover, the ocean itself is fraught with dangers beyond just underwater monsters; many dangers stem from the sea itself.


    Just like now, the entire base is floating above the sea. Athena could feel that both she and the base were drifting around.


    The base now feels incredibly light; when the sea truly rises tomorrow and this place becomes a vast ocean.


    Any wave can be stirred up, any wind can become a disaster. Like lost soul''s boat, the base will become that small paper boat.


    ¡¾ Regional Chat Channel ¡¿


    "It''s only been a few days of rest, and the system is causing trouble again!"


    "I feel like we''ve seen this so often now. These sudden incidents aren''t even sudden anymore; whose problem is it that always turns into a problem!"


    "Shouldn''t your concern be about us turning into an ocean? I just went out to look, and our base really has floated up. Where did all this seawater come from?"


    "A sudden snowstorm overnight was already crazy enough; now, we can even have seas in the forest. My goodness, this world has truly gone mad!"


    "This world was already mad to begin with. Any creature hidden away here shouldn''t be too weak. Besides, we''ve just undergone a reinforcement; the system won''t be lenient on us."


    "Do you think it''s mermaids or deep-sea monsters?"


    "Haha, you''re so innocent. Mermaids? I think Shark people are more likely!"


    Everyone remained unruly as usual, but even amidst their joking, there was a hint of seriousness as they considered the challenges of tomorrow.


    In this unpredictable world, if they lived each day so seriously, they might not eventually be killed by monsters, but rather by their own hands.


    For instance, Athena''s own mindset had undergone many changes. Previously, she would worry about various issues, but now she was more inclined to take things as they came, calm and unruffled.


    ¡¾ [ Big Bear ] has sent you a message! ¡¿


    Athena was puzzled. Why would [ Big Bear ] come to her at this moment? Was it because of the upcoming monsters, or something related to the silver coins from before?


    She remembered clearly that before entering the regional battlefield, she had received a payment from her. During the battle, she had guided her once and received another payment.


    Thinking back, she almost felt like a shady merchant. Was she here to demand a refund?


    With these thoughts swirling, she reluctantly opened the chat interface.


    "Uhm, after much thought, I feel I need to talk to you."


    "How old are you?"


    "?"


    Just like Athena''s state of mind, she slowly typed a question mark. Was [ Big Bear ] going crazy inside the regional battlefield?


    Without responding, she raised her hand to close the interface, unwilling to join her in madness.


    "Well, actually, what I really wanted to ask is, have you encountered any other goblins?"


    The earlier part might have been her madness, but this line was definitely prompted by the old goblin next to [ Big Bear ].


    And indeed, as she suspected, [ Big Bear ] had been comfortably nestled in her bed until this regional battle. Instead of killing a few monsters, she had spent the entire time finding routes, resulting in minimal gains.


    Fortunately, she unexpectedly found a massive cave and discovered many treasures inside, although most were unusable and she could only bring out a portion.


    Such a girl bearing outrageous luck.


    According to the old goblin, it was a cave of snake creatures.


    Upon returning, the old goblin instructed her to contact Athena. If not for the old goblin''s presence now, she might have forgotten entirely.


    "I have. Do you have something you want to ask?"


    In truth, this was directed at the old goblin. The old goblin next to [ Big Bear ] was definitely out of the ordinary.


    As a renegade goblin clan, their ability to keep so many goblins willingly confined to Goblin City, afraid to step out, stemmed from their being shunned by the darkness.


    Once they left this protective haven, their fate was almost predetermined. Even during daylight forays, they often returned heavily wounded.


    But oddly enough, the old goblin next to [ Big Bear ] never provoked any monsters. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Moreover, Athena had specifically asked Uncle Gowther before whether goblins could leave through other means, and her answer had been affirmative.


    No, she had harbored doubts but had never actively sought out [ Big Bear ] . Everyone had their own secrets, and unless it involved mutual interests, there was no need to delve deeper.


    She hadn''t expected the old goblin to approach her first.


    "He says he wants to buy three goblin hairs from you."


    Athena''s hand paused momentarily. How did she know there was a goblin beside her? Was she bluffing or telling the truth?


    Time to find out. Tomorrow she could use her powers again.


    "I can''t decide on that. Perhaps tomorrow I can give you an answer."

 Chapter 103: In The Middle Of The Ocean

    Chapter 103: In The Middle Of The OceanAthena had once desired the old goblin¡¯s hair for a reason: her heart had whispered that the three strands of goblin hair would be the key to unlocking the Goblin City for the first time.


    But now, the tables had turned. The old goblin sought the hair from her. Why? She already possessed it, and Big Bear had more than one goblin at his disposal.


    Still, this wasn¡¯t her immediate concern. Regardless of what the other party wanted, the decision was in her hands, and there was no threat to her.


    As she sat in her room, she felt the base sway as if it were afloat. Through the window, she saw that the water outside had risen halfway up the trees, and the water level was increasing rapidly.


    Should she be grateful that her home hadn¡¯t been flooded?


    Ignoring the playful trio downstairs, she went upstairs to her room and lay on the spacious bed. Even in this new environment, the calming effect of the four-piece bedding set soon lulled her into sleep.


    The sea waves rocked gently. Outside, an endless expanse of water stretched out. In the middle of the ocean, she saw not a blue sky but a deep, overwhelming sea, bringing a sense of isolation and suffocation.


    Opening the window, she saw only the vast ocean. The base floated like a real ship on the water¡¯s surface. The sunlight sparkled on the waves, but it couldn¡¯t penetrate the deep, unseen depths of the ocean. Yesterday¡¯s dense forest had vanished without a trace.


    After getting ready, the system notification chimed in.


    ¡¾ Daybreak has arrived, please begin exploring the world! ¡¿


    It was 6:00 AM. Monsters would arrive at noon, giving her six full hours.


    When she went downstairs, she saw that Mikmik and the others still preferred the small wooden hut they had made rather than the new nest upstairs.


    Hearing Athena¡¯s steps, Mikmik twitched his ears and woke up, stretching. The other two woke up gradually, and Paopao scrambled down from the nest, his first reaction being to cling to Athena¡¯s leg like a child¡¯s toy.


    She picked him up and placed him on the sofa. Despite his small size, Paopao was the heaviest of the three, more like a weighty highly dense grassball than a convenient leg attachment.


    Skipping the effort of preparing breakfast, they each chose a favorite fruit and began munching.


    Grey, with her hair in a disheveled mess, came in carrying a small jar of honey. She peeled an orange, dipped it in honey, and popped it into her mouth, closing her eyes in happiness. Seeing her method, Athena and the trio exchanged glances and silently followed her lead.


    After finishing her meal, Grey wiped her mouth with her hand and said to Athena with some hesitation, ¡°The giant bee stinger you brought is slightly too high-level. The smelting furnace can¡¯t fully melt it. I can only use my forging skills to partially process them.¡±


    "..."


    ¡°If we get the corresponding weapon blueprints and upgrade the furnace, I can make something out of them.¡±


    Grey¡¯s frustration was clear; it wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t want to help, but the furnace was too basic. Despite inheriting some of her father¡¯s skills, she wasn¡¯t at his level yet. If she were, she wouldn¡¯t need a furnace to forge weapons.


    Athena just acknowledged her calmly, ¡°I understand.¡±


    Grey, relieved by Athena¡¯s lack of demands, sighed and returned to her room.


    Athena hadn¡¯t expected much from her anyway. The furnace wasn¡¯t advanced enough, and they didn¡¯t even have blueprints. It was already a challenge for Grey to process the materials partially.


    Though the soft sofa was comfortable, a portable deck chair was even more appealing. On a clear, cloudless day, gazing at the deep blue sea merging with the sky was a beautiful sight.


    Estimating the width of the door and the smaller sofa, Athena moved the sofa outside, facing the sea. She lay down, enjoying a seaside sunbath.


    The trio lined up at the door, staring at her. Should she be surprised by the plant spirits¡¯ rapid growth? The plants they sowed yesterday were ready for harvest today, faster than cutting chives.


    ¡°Harvest the fruits,¡± she commanded, pointing to the garden.


    Despite their plaintive looks, they had no choice but to obey.


    Lazily basking in the sun, she watched them work, feeling a serene sense of peace. She was curious about what lay beneath the sea. Were there only the sea creatures, or were there other monsters too? Where had the forest creatures gone?


    Without diving equipment, she couldn¡¯t explore underwater. Though she had explored every inch of the forest, the underwater forest remained a mystery.


    ¡¾ Regional Chat Channel ¡¿


    ¡°Endless sea, endless feelings, just like endless me, not knowing where to go!¡±


    ¡°Stop being dramatic.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you guys feel something when looking at this sea?¡±


    ¡°I get it! Do you feel an urge to cast a fishing rod? It¡¯s a pity we can¡¯t fish!¡±


    ¡°Kindred spirit! I didn¡¯t expect to find a fellow angler here.¡±


    ¡°Fishermen are everywhere¡­ this sea might not even be real. Who knows if there are fish?¡±


    ¡°Hurry up, why is it taking so long? The suspense is killing me! What kind of monsters will come? Can¡¯t we just get it over with?¡± sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    From her bag, she took out the Heart¡¯s Desire, reflecting her doubts. Her reflection in the mirror blurred, turning into a line of words.


    ¡°Follow the path you believe is right.¡±


    The words appeared quickly and faded just as fast, leaving Athena lying on the sofa with the mirror in hand.


    Tonight, she would ask Grey for three strands of goblin hair. If the goblin accompanying by Big Bear wanted them, then she would give them to him.


    ''I wonder if Grey''s pubic hair is allowed, though I doubt she has any.''


    Athena thought while scratching her rear.

 Chapter 104: Witty And The Musical Dolphin

    Chapter 104: Witty And The Musical DolphinAthena was enjoying the serene beauty of the seaside when she noticed a peculiar, triangular shape piercing the horizon. Squinting her eyes, she scrutinized the moving object more closely. The longer she observed, the more it seemed like the dorsal fin of a shark. It appeared that the ocean offered not just the exclusive scenes of merfolk but also some other marine creatures, perhaps even unfamiliar monsters.


    As it swam closer, seemingly curious about Athena''s shelter, she stood up from her sofa, her Moonlit Bow appearing in her hand, ready to take aim. Yet, before she could release her arrow, the object halted at a distance from her refuge and suddenly leaped out of the water.


    It soared through the air, creating a spray of water, its sleek and graceful body moving with an elegance that resembled a dancer on the ocean¡¯s surface. The leap was over a meter high before it plunged back into the sea, its white body shimmering in harmony with the waves.


    Athena lowered her bow as she finally discerned the creature¡¯s true form¡ªit was not a shark but a dolphin.


    ¡¾ Musical Dolphin ¡¿


    Level: 6


    Strength: 3


    Defense: 5


    Skill: Musical Attack


    The Musical Dolphin¡¯s unique skill, the Musical Attack, allows it to summon the Royal Mermen! In a sense, it was a harmless creature, although its ability to call the Royal Mermen made it anything but benign.


    Athena lifted her bow again but ultimately decided to lay back down on her sofa. Since the system would always reconfigure the mermen, killing this one would only prompt another to appear. Perhaps more might emerge if this one were slain.


    Seeing her initial intent to attack, the Musical Dolphin dove underwater. Once it realized the danger had passed, it popped its head back up, curious and seemingly unbothered. Its intelligent eyes locked onto Athena¡¯s, as it began jumping playfully at the entrance of her yard, completely blocking her view of the outside world.


    With a twitch at the corner of her mouth, Athena called over Witty, who was working diligently nearby. Witty looked at her, puzzled, possibly thinking his master had a sudden change of heart. To his surprise, Athena shoved a stone into his hand, her intention clear.


    "Your aim and strength are better. See that thing jumping around? Throw this at it."


    Witty''s ears twitched as he looked at his serious-faced master and then at the playful dolphin outside. The Musical Dolphin, unaware of what was to come, continued its joyful antics at the gate, its eyes showing its superiority over the land creatures.


    Understanding the dolphin¡¯s condescending look, the already irritable Witty¡¯s eyes reddened. He weighed the stone in his hand before hurling it with precision. The stone hit the dolphin squarely, causing it to tumble back into the sea.


    "Hahaha...," Athena laughed.


    Witty clapped his paws together with satisfaction before returning to his task of harvesting vegetables. With the obstruction gone, the sea returned to its calm state.


    The Musical Dolphin, now with a noticeable bump on its head, soon resurfaced. This time, its eyes no longer gleamed with wisdom but held a pitiful, human-like sorrow as it gazed at the smirking Athena. Instead of retreating, it swam closer, seemingly fascinated by Witty, making cheerful sounds that even Athena, a human, recognized as joyful.


    She couldn''t help but suspect the dolphin had lost its mind. Despite being hit by Witty, it showed no anger or desire to escape, instead, it eagerly sought out Witty¡¯s attention. Even when Athena glared at it menacingly, the dolphin¡¯s gaze remained fixed on Witty. Every time Witty glared back with his rabbit eyes, the dolphin would leap joyfully.


    Unable to bear the noisy creature, Athena finally moved her sofa back indoors. Witty, on the other hand, didn''t spare the dolphin another glance, which only added to the dolphin¡¯s dejection. It was used to getting whatever it wanted in the sea, with the princess ensuring no one dared to disrespect it. Now, feeling wronged, it remembered what it used to do when ignored by other sea creatures¡ªit went to the princess!


    With that thought, the Musical Dolphin dove back into the sea decisively.


    Athena¡¯s decision not to kill it was due to previous tower defense missions where killing one often brought more trouble. She had hoped to avoid additional problems by sparing it this time. Little did she know that the trouble was inevitable and even more dramatic than she had anticipated.


    ¡¾ Special Event Triggered! ¡¿


    ¡¾ The Tale of the Musical Dolphin! ¡¿


    ¡¾ The Royal Mermen Reconfiguration Time Will Be Greatly Advanced! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Players, Prepare Yourselves! Prepare Yourselves! ¡¿


    Athena, just about to sit back down after returning her sofa to its original spot, was bombarded with a series of system notifications. She triple-checked the alerts.


    Paopao, arriving with the last apple, sensed the heavy atmosphere surrounding Athena. His master maintained her usual stoic expression, but the oppressive air around her was too palpable to ignore. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena regretted having Witty throw the stone. She should have just shot an arrow herself¡ªit would have been quicker!


    The once calm sea began to churn violently, causing her shelter to sway. At this moment, the ocean roared with fury, signaling the onset of an earth-shattering storm. The wind howled ferociously, waves surged like the angry roars of the sea, and her shelter was tossed about in the tempest. The entire world seemed enveloped in tension and oppression, heralding an impending catastrophe.

 Chapter 105: Fight Against The Rulers of Oceans!

    Chapter 105: Fight Against The Rulers of Oceans!The sky was choked with dark, oppressive clouds, and lightning crackled across the heavens. The once tranquil sea roared with monstrous waves, turbulent and unforgiving.


    Within the shelter of the boundless ocean, it felt like a dilapidated wooden ship, barely holding together. Giant waves crashed relentlessly against the base''s barrier, and Athena stood amidst the chaos, clearly seeing the scene beneath the turbulent waves.


    The deafening clash between the waves and the barrier sounded like the ocean''s furious roar.


    The scene before her bore no resemblance to the legendary mermaids who arrived with enchanting melodies. Instead, it resembled an apocalyptic vision.


    Before the forces of nature, even the mightiest of humans felt like mere ants¡ªfragile and easily crushed.


    Beneath the fathomless depths of the sea, an unusual portal appeared. It was a cramped, narrow gateway, no larger than a one-meter-diameter sphere.


    A dolphin emerged from it, followed by a mermaid.


    With scales on her face, fins on either side, and eyes the same color as the sea, she possessed a beauty that humans could only dream of.


    Her eyes held the coldness of the deep sea, her sharp teeth and claws gleamed, and her light blue, seaweed-like curls danced in the water.


    Her upper body was human, but her lower half was a fish tail¡ªtwo meters long by itself, making her total length an intimidating three meters.


    She moved through the water with the grace of a fish, her tail propelling her swiftly towards the ocean surface.


    Beautiful yet perilous.


    Athena, still within the base, felt a pang of anxiety¡ªa sensation of being targeted by a predator.


    The surrounding sea remained churning, but suddenly, it all fell eerily still.


    Athena fixed her gaze on a specific spot on the sea''s surface, and as expected, a tail emerged¡ªa long, shimmering blue tail that, even without sunlight, dazzled brilliantly, rippling the surface of the sea.


    A wave surged toward the floating base island, only to be blocked once more.


    Athena finally glimpsed the mermaid''s true form. Her beauty was unforgettable at first sight, but beneath that allure lay a sense of mystery and danger.


    As a member of the royal mermaid clan, she carried an inherent aura of authority that disallowed any thoughts of defiance.


    This creature, an enemy of Athena, could awaken the slumbering sea with a single call¡ªone mermaid could rival an entire army.


    Athena had no doubt that battling a mermaid would be futile; if she ventured outside the base and fell into the sea, today would be her last.


    Each assault from the waves brought immense pressure to the base¡¯s barrier, but it withstood every attack, indicating its resilience and an unlikelihood of being breached.


    Previously, every monster assault allowed the creatures to penetrate the base¡¯s interior.


    But against the mermaid, the base had, for the first time, repelled monsters both by night and day, demonstrating its full capabilities.


    The system¡¯s arrangement of monsters was a way of testing and revealing the players'' strengths. Normally, the base wouldn¡¯t provide protection during monster attacks.


    Yet, in the face of this unique mermaid, the system had activated the base¡¯s protective functions, ensuring there would be no inevitable defeat or simply call it, inescapable death for all players. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, this battle was unlike any other. While Athena¡¯s base was of a high level with formidable defense, how many times could a lower-level base withstand the mermaid¡¯s assaults?


    Observing the ineffectiveness of the waves¡¯ attacks, the royal mermaid squinted her beautiful eyes and smiled, revealing her sharp shark-like teeth.


    Her smile, charming yet dangerous, was like finding a delightful new toy.


    She ceased the wave attacks, seemingly confident that Athena could not harm her, and swam toward the base.


    Though the barrier had repelled the waves, it did not necessarily mean the mermaid could not enter.


    The strength of a whale-like mermaid diminished greatly when away from the water¡ªan option worth considering.


    In the sea, mermaids were nearly invincible. The system¡¯s rating of her was accurate: level eight, with exceptional skills, though her attributes weren¡¯t particularly strong.


    In the water, they were the ocean¡¯s rulers.


    Yet, a strong dragon cannot dominate a local snake¡ªvictory is especially challenging on another¡¯s turf.


    Athena suppressed her urge to draw the black axe and restricted the base¡¯s various towers from attacking.


    At this moment, all her attacks were ineffective. No matter what she tried, the mermaid could conjure waves to neutralize them.


    And from the look of it, the mermaid seemed unfazed, as though summoning the ocean was a trivial task that required no effort.


    As a member of the mermaid royalty, she did not possess greater physical attributes than ordinary mermaids but exuded a regal presence that could have overwhelmed anyone less mentally strong than Athena.


    With a mesmerizing and enchanting face, the mermaid slowly approached Athena, spreading her arms as if seeking an embrace.


    She carefully sheathed her sharp teeth and claws, as if to signify her harmlessness.


    A mythical creature, usually untouchable, had sheathed its threats and approached cautiously, tempting the observer.


    Yet, to Athena, the beauty and allure were overshadowed by a sense of danger and power.


    As the mermaid opened her mouth, Athena wasted no time. The base''s defensive towers sprang into action immediately.


    A moonlit bow, strung taut in her hands, glowed with the serene light of the moon.


    Upon release, the arrow shot forth with the force to part the sea, aimed directly at the mermaid¡¯s mouth as if intending to pierce through and pin her in the boundless ocean.


    Another wave surged.


    It deflected countless artillery shells and arrows, yet the moonlit arrow continued its path through the wave, but fell powerless before reaching the mermaid, landing on the sea.


    The mermaid, however, could not manage a smile.


    Her once-beautiful face was now a mask of disbelief. Her eyes widened, her scales bristling, revealing her monstrous side.


    Athena¡¯s unanticipated arrow shattered her song, cutting off her melody before it could even begin.


    Countless shells targeted her, but were stopped by the waves.


    The musical dolphins below struggled to keep up with their princess''s speed, pushed back by the surging currents.


    Finally reaching the surface, they saw a sky filled with artillery fire closing in on them.

 Chapter 106: The Clash of Tides and Arrows!

    Chapter 106: The Clash of Tides and Arrows!The Musical Dolphin let out a startled cry, its wide eyes fixed on the incoming barrage. Beneath the sea¡¯s surface, nothing escaped the notice of the mermaid. With a mere flick of her tail, a massive wave rose to shield the dolphin.


    The Musical Dolphin hurriedly swam to the side of its princess. Despite her somber mood, she gently stroked the dolphin¡¯s smooth back, offering it comfort.


    Seeing the wave¡¯s defense fail, she knew her only option was an attack through song.


    Just as she prepared to sing again, a volley of arrows from Athena rained down, relentless and unyielding. The speed of her waves was no match for the swiftness of Athena''s arrows, leaving her flustered.


    Hearing a mermaid¡¯s song triggered a mental resistance test. A failed test meant falling under the song''s spell. Although Athena¡¯s mental fortitude had significantly improved, she knew to preemptively block any potential attacks.


    Irritated and unable to maintain her mysterious demeanor, the mermaid retreated, testing the range of Athena¡¯s arrows, only to find they reached her no matter the distance.


    Venturing too far was not an option; her song had a limited range. Engaging Athena in close combat was out of the question. She wouldn¡¯t abandon her strengths or highlight her weaknesses. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sunlight, fire, and land devoid of water were their weaknesses. When mermaids transformed their tails into legs, their attributes decreased by 40%.


    She realized that without the ocean¡¯s aid, she couldn''t match this monstrous human. Frustrated, she knocked on the Musical Dolphin''s head. Despite the chaotic scene, the dolphin¡¯s companions, undeterred by any concern for Athena''s defeat, squeezed together at the door, watching the battle.


    The Musical Dolphin, confused by the sudden onslaught, was further agitated by another tap from the mermaid princess, exacerbating its headache. Its eyes caught sight of a familiar rabbit head peeking through a nearby door crack, bringing a sudden burst of joy and another loud, annoying cry.


    The mermaid, thinking the dolphin was cheering for her, squeezed its mouth shut to silence it. Athena, noticing the dolphin beside the mermaid with a noticeable bump on its head, realized it had been reporting back to its mistress.


    Without pausing, Athena launched another arrow, this time aiming at the dolphin, but it was blocked by a wave again. Both sides seemed locked in a war of attrition, unable to land a decisive blow, yet neither willing to relent.


    Unfazed by the oncoming Moonlight Arrow, the mermaid focused solely on her spell, determined to lure Athena out. Athena''s arrows, losing power after passing through the waves, were consistently thwarted by successive waves.


    The enchanting melody of the mermaid¡¯s song resonated through the ocean, sweet and divine, captivating all who heard it. Like a fairy tale, the song''s mysterious, magical quality seemed to pierce the depths of the sea.


    Those who heard the song couldn¡¯t help but reach out, drawn to its source, only to find the darkness hidden behind its beauty. Sailors lured by the song often met their end in the ocean.


    ¡¾Mental Resistance Test in Progress¡­¡¿


    ¡¾Mental Resistance Test Passed!¡¿


    Despite the song''s allure, the most beautiful Athena had ever heard, her resolve remained firm. The mermaid, seeing her expression soften, sang with even more vigor, her eyes filled with disdain.


    The moment the mental resistance test succeeded, the mermaid¡¯s song abruptly halted, receiving a backlash. Disbelief filled her eyes as she stared at Athena, unable to comprehend how her proudest weapon had failed against a mere human.


    This was an unbearable humiliation.


    Not only did she fail to charm her opponent, but the backlash injured her. The situation above the water shifted dramatically. Though Athena¡¯s sanctuary seemed insignificant in the vast ocean, she now stood as the victor.


    Once again, the stalemate resumed. Athena¡¯s attacks couldn¡¯t harm her, and she couldn¡¯t harm Athena. Fearing to sing again, the mermaid watched as Athena ceased firing arrows, yet she had to summon wave after wave to block the barrage of cannon fire and arrows from various defense towers.


    Retreating into the ocean would be too shameful!


    She slowly released her grip on the Musical Dolphin, allowing it to voice its complaints. Amidst the chaos, the mermaid hurled the dolphin away with a wave, but it soon swam back.


    "Wait, a misunderstanding," the mermaid¡¯s voice, melodic and emotionless, like the waves, reached Athena¡¯s ears. The cannon fire continued unabated.


    "Ceasefire. Fighting benefits neither of us."


    "The Musical Dolphin wants to see your little rabbit."


    Her explanation did nothing to halt Athena¡¯s assault. What did it matter why she attacked? The reason was abstract at best.


    Under Athena¡¯s scrutiny, the once arrogant mermaid, her face flawless and emotionless, floated on the sea''s surface. A single crystalline tear fell from her eye, turning into a perfect pearl in her hand.


    Athena paused, taken aback by the sight.


    Without a trace of emotion, the mermaid held the pearl aloft in the sunlight.


    "A mermaid¡¯s tear as a peace offering."


    The gesture was undeniably effective. The overwhelming cannon fire ceased instantly.

 Chapter 107: Balance

    Chapter 107: BalanceThe tears of a mermaid transform into pearls, a phenomenon that has earned them the name "Mermaid¡¯s Tears."


    Legends abound regarding the Mermaid¡¯s Tears, yet no one anticipated that they would come across one so easily today.


    ¡¾ Mermaid¡¯s Tear ¡¿


    Rarity: Rare


    Category: Special


    The tears of a mermaid can speak. When held in the mouth, it grants the ability to breathe underwater, making the ocean no longer reject you. Consuming it will cause a special transformation in your body, permanently increasing the favorability with oceanic monsters to 5.


    The mermaid watched with pride as the human ceased their attack, knowing that no one could resist.


    Athena had no reason to refuse; after all, why pass up a free opportunity? She set her bow and arrows by her side. ¡°Throw it over.¡±


    The mermaid flicked her tail and shook her head. ¡°No, rabbit. You must give it to me.¡±


    Contrary to what she had imagined, an arrow streaked through the air towards her, which she hastily blocked with a wave. She turned to Athena with disbelief, unable to understand why the human would attack her.


    "To go back on your word!" The mermaid was incensed. She had given her tears to this human, and now they were attacking her in return!


    With a full draw of her bow, Athena looked at the mermaid''s angry eyes, feeling utterly perplexed.


    ¡°It''s a gift. Throw it over.¡± Confirming that the mermaid could not attack her and that her shelter was safe from being sunk, Athena assessed that the only remaining danger was the potential discomfort of swaying left and right, like seasickness.


    She didn¡¯t understand why the mermaid wanted the grassball, but it was probably the idea of that musical dolphin. Regardless of whether it was the Mermaid¡¯s Tears or even if the dolphin offered her meat, she would not agree.


    The mermaid¡¯s strength was not as formidable as Athena had imagined. In fact, the mermaid seemed somewhat foolish. If it weren¡¯t for the undeniable aura surrounding her, Athena might have thought of her as nothing more than a silly fish.


    In the vast ocean, the shelter stood in defiance against the mermaid. Enormous waves repeatedly attempted to submerge the shelter but were completely ineffective.


    Ilinaya was a member of the mermaid royal family, though she was of little importance. Despite the vastness of the mermaid race and their large population, with nearly a thousand royal members, her standing was not high.


    However, due to her innate abilities in the ocean, even though she was a minor royal, she held considerable sway beneath the waves.


    The musical dolphin, due to her presence, was highly respected in the ocean. Those who offended it would face her retribution.


    Unfortunately, due to her low status, she was not permitted to come ashore, especially given the current state of conflict between darkness and daylight.


    The opportunity to come from the Black Lands to the battlefield was something she had fought for, and she even sent her most beloved musical dolphin to make an early arrival through the special summoning of the Silver Lake Dolphin.


    Now, reduced to being at the mercy of this small human, the mermaid harbored no desire to attack Athena¡¯s shelter.


    As one of the rare intelligent species in the Black Lands, they did not blindly follow the darkness''s directives. Without substantial benefits, their attitude toward newcomers from the Third World, like Athena, was often indifferent and contingent on the situation.


    Her initial aggressive approach was merely to intimidate Athena and to observe what the other mermen had described about the people from the Third World.


    To her surprise, she ended up in a predicament. After all, it was just a rabbit; what harm could it do to her?


    ¡°Stop, cease the attack, I¡¯ll give you the Mermaid¡¯s Tears!¡± In the end, it was Ilinaya who conceded first, as her time in this place was limited.


    Once the time was up and the portal closed, she would have to return, and who knew when the next opportunity to come out would be.


    She remained curious about Athena and her companions, observing their legs, their manner of walking on land, and the small animals behind them¡ªthings she had only seen in books before.


    Keeping a safe distance from the shelter, Ilinaya used the waves to send the Mermaid¡¯s Tears over. Although the waves were blocked, the tears easily passed through the shelter¡¯s barrier, gently landing at Athena¡¯s feet.


    Athena bent down to pick it up. The cool, soothing sensation of the tear felt surprisingly comfortable. Despite its appearance as just a rather beautiful pearl, it seemed utterly ordinary.


    Yet, it was hard to believe that it had transformed from a tear.


    She stowed it away in her system backpack, now observing the mermaid more clearly. Ilinaya appeared to be a curious, naive deep-sea mermaid, likely pampered in her upbringing. The thought that this might be an act crossed Athena¡¯s mind; if so, the mermaid¡¯s performance was indeed impressive.


    Regardless, Athena maintained her vigilance, showing no signs of relaxing her guard.


    Even if the mermaid acted friendly, it did not change her fundamental nature as a monster. Her apparent amiability was simply because she knew she could not best Athena. Should Athena reveal any vulnerability, there was no doubt that her sharp teeth would sever Athena¡¯s artery, spilling blood, and she would then seek out her next interesting target.


    The musical dolphin, having failed in its negotiations, continued to hum and fuss. It wanted that white rabbit with red eyes!


    ¡°My name is Ilinaya. What¡¯s yours? I heard that humans usually introduce themselves to each other.¡± She tilted her head, trying to appear harmless, keeping her hands behind her back and avoiding showing her teeth while speaking.


    ¡°Big Dream.¡±


    Ilinaya was momentarily stunned. She found the name unusual but did not delve deeper.


    ¡°Why are you here? Why do those from the Third World aid the daylight rather than the darkness?¡±


    She expressed a hint of regret. ¡°Daylight is so weak. If you helped the darkness, daylight might have been repelled long ago.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think eternal darkness is the most beautiful?¡±


    Athena, not feeling tired, instructed the three small creatures watching the spectacle to move the sofa out. Once she was comfortably seated again, she answered Ilinaya¡¯s question.


    Since there was nothing else to do, chatting with her might reveal more valuable information.


    ¡°Given that you asked this question, I believe you are indeed a wise mermaid, but you probably know more than I do about the answer, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you have something to say to me.¡± Athena revealed the first genuine smile since their meeting, though her eyes remained devoid of warmth. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 108: Royal Mermaid Princess

    Chapter 108: Royal Mermaid PrincessIlinaya''s indifference to Athena¡¯s attitude was palpable. She remained unfazed by Athena''s retorts or apparent disdain. Her curiosity about everything was evident, but it did not equate to naivety or foolishness. In her eyes, Athena was no ordinary human; Athena was a formidable figure on their side.


    She casually extracted a stone from somewhere, tossing it into the air and catching it effortlessly in her hand. This seemed like mere idle play, but her eyes were constantly observing Athena¡¯s reactions.


    Unfortunately for her, Athena paid no attention to her antics. Instead, Athena focused on devouring the giant honey provided by Paopao, seemingly oblivious to everything else.


    Ilinaya¡¯s smile only grew wider, her gaze fixed on Athena with an unsettling certainty. ¡°You recognize this stone, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Her question, though rhetorical, carried an unmistakable conviction.


    The stone in her hand was none other than a World Stone.


    Despite Athena¡¯s nonchalant demeanor¡ªalmost as if she were looking at an ordinary rock¡ªIlinaya detected the subtle change in Athena''s expression, confirming that Athena did indeed recognize the stone.


    ¡°I know a great deal more than you do. You¡¯ve been in the battle zone for so long¡­ don¡¯t you find it dull?¡±


    She sighed as she swayed her tail, drifting through the sea and circling the shelter without ever coming too close. ¡°It¡¯s like being stuck in the den of predators, Dark Lands¡ªI feel like I¡¯m going to go mad eventually!¡±


    ¡°Have you used this stone before? If you have it, you must know its purpose. I have the coordinates to the portal. Don¡¯t you want to visit the Light Lands?¡±


    Even without singing, her voice carried an undertone of temptation.


    Even if Athena didn¡¯t respond, Ilinaya continued speaking, knowing that Athena was listening.


    ¡°Your Third World aids the Daylight faction to gain more World Energy, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°To you, it doesn¡¯t matter which side you help, as long as you obtain World Energy. You¡¯d even be willing to go to war or collaborate with both sides.¡±


    She dove into the sea again, emerging with droplets clinging to her long lashes and a mischievous glint in her captivating blue eyes.


    ¡°What if I told you I could give you World Energy?¡±


    Even though Athena¡¯s hand holding the apple paused for a brief moment, it was clear that this statement had caught her attention.


    Why had the system wanted them to witness the fall of the Sol Kingdom? Was it to observe the rise and fall of a kingdom, to witness history? Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    No, the system wasn¡¯t that grand. The real reason was that when the Sol Kingdom fell, the Daylight power that once protected it transformed into the original World Energy.


    Before it was reclaimed by Daylight, the system had intercepted it.


    Athena had a vague sense of this fact but had never known what to call it. The term "World Energy" was new to her.


    Ilinaya ¡¯s keen observation did not miss Athena¡¯s reaction.


    Athena finally lifted her gaze, looking intently. Her eyes were calm, yet they seemed to hold a storm within.


    ¡°Why are you telling me this?¡±


    Ilinaya was no benevolent fish. Even if the information posed no direct loss to her, there was no apparent reason for her to divulge it.


    ¡°You carry a scent of corrosion. You must have recently come from the Black Forest, right?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been to the battle zone and the Dark Lands. Though I don''t have the knowledge what you humans called them, but anyway, aren¡¯t you curious about what the Light Lands, which your kind reveres, is like?¡±


    ¡°After I leave, you¡¯ll have time to explore. I have the coordinates. This stone is the key, and with the door in your hands, you can visit the Light Lands anytime.¡± She held up the World Stone, her sharp nails scratching its surface, though no mark was left behind.


    The "World Gate" was their term for the system¡¯s built-in teleportation portals.


    Such gates, which allowed for instantaneous travel, were not only hard to detect but also had camouflage capabilities.


    ¡°So, what do you think? Even if the gate is in your hands, it¡¯s useless if you can¡¯t find it.¡±


    Ilinaya¡¯s intention was unmistakable. Though she didn¡¯t reveal her exact method, it was clear she wanted to use the system¡¯s gate to reach the Light Lands.


    As she said, Athena had never been to the Light Lands. Yet, she was uninterested in working with a potentially dangerous royal mermaid. The risks outweighed the potential benefits.


    One day, she would go to the Light Lands. Given the system¡¯s nature, it wouldn¡¯t abandon such a useful tool. It was only a matter of time before they were sent there, making Ilinaya¡¯s offer seem unnecessary.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not interested. I prefer staying home.¡± She tossed the remaining apple core, which quickly disappeared into the thorns.


    Ilinaya ¡¯s previously confident demeanor turned icy. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    ¡°No, thank you.¡±


    ¡°¡± A sharp, ear-piercing shriek erupted from Ilinaya, as though it could puncture eardrums.


    Athena merely frowned, unaffected by the noise, which seemed more annoying than threatening.


    Ilinaya, visibly frustrated, unleashed a terrifying tsunami. The shelter rocked violently on the surface of the sea, constantly tumbling.


    Yet, it remained afloat, undisturbed, with everything inside securely in place.


    The only ones suffering were the three little ones and Grey, who were in the workroom, dry heaving uncontrollably.


    Ilinaya, on the verge of a breakdown, nearly bit her own teeth in frustration. Yet, she resumed her cheerful demeanor, chatting with Athena as if nothing had happened.


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t you want to go? There are so many benefits, and don¡¯t you want World Energy? If you have it and give it to the Third World. Even a small amount would make a difference!¡±


    Athena did not answer but instead posed a question. ¡°If it¡¯s such a great thing, why give it to me? Wouldn¡¯t it be better for you to keep it?¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t have World Energy myself, but I know how to obtain it. I can even help you get it. What¡¯s your response?¡±


    ¡°A ticket! Yes! My reward is just a ticket!¡±


    ¡°How can you guarantee it? It¡¯s just a trick, nothing more.¡± Athena¡¯s cold demeanor was, in itself, a blow to Ilinaya .


    ¡°We can sign a contract!¡±


    Contrary to what Ilinaya expected, as soon as she finished speaking, Athena produced a pre-prepared contract and handed it over.


    Ilinaya , holding the contract, felt a surreal sense. Despite proposing it herself, the contract seemed as if it had been written long ago.


    ¡°What are you waiting for? Sign it.¡±


    The Royal Mermaid Princess look at Athena in confusion and sighed¡­

 Chapter 109: Contract Signed

    Chapter 109: Contract SignedThe contract stipulated that the player "Big Dream" would provide the portal to the world, while the Ilinaya party was responsible for providing the portal''s coordinates and bringing their own key to the Light Lands. Neither side was allowed to disclose any information about the other. Once entered, both parties were free to act independently.


    The Ilinaya faction committed to assisting the player Big Dream in obtaining World Energy, which would belong exclusively to Big Dream.


    Neither party was allowed to harm the other.


    A breach of the contract would result in a permanent reduction of 50 to all attributes.


    Furthermore, if Ilinaya breached the contract, she would incur the ''Fear of Water'' debuff, lasting for one month.


    As Ilinaya held the thin contract paper in her hands, she immediately realized she had been tricked. The human before her seemed completely uninterested in cooperating and had even drafted the contract herself.


    The contract''s terms were clearly skewed against her, and Ilinaya''s frustration was palpable.


    She looked up at Athena, who remained unmoved and simply indicated that she should sign.


    With no opportunity for negotiation, Ilinaya signed the contract. For Athena, missing this opportunity might mean waiting for another chance, but for her, that was not a certainty.


    A faint glow enveloped them both, signifying the contract''s formation.


    In an instant, Ilinaya returned to her aloof demeanor, like the most mysterious creature of the ocean, her earlier expressions seeming irrelevant.


    "Take your time to prepare; see you tomorrow," Athena''s light statement settled the matter with an undeniable tone.


    Ilinaya clicked her tongue in disapproval. "Can¡¯t we go now? Don¡¯t you need some time to prepare?"


    "Anytime is fine."


    Ilinaya was unwilling to continue the argument. "I haven¡¯t had enough fun yet. Tomorrow will be more suitable."


    She turned and dove into the sea. After emerging from the portal, she had been misled by the musical dolphin and ended up here without fully appreciating her surroundings.


    Her homeland was different from this place. Although it was also an underwater realm, it was not this artificially created sea. Beneath the ocean were not forests but an immense, dark trench that led to her kingdom, where not only did her kin, the mermen people, live but also other sea monsters.


    Ilinaya swam freely underwater, never before experiencing such a sense of liberation. To her left, the musical dolphin continued to circle her, expressing its grievances.


    "Alright, this rabbit is no toy. If it¡¯s not suitable now, I''ll find you a new one later."


    Athena watched her retreat into the depths, lost in thought for a moment.


    With the fighting outside now subdued, Grey and the others emerged from the house.


    Originally concerned about Athena, they saw her unharmed, sitting comfortably on the sofa with a jar of honey that had already been significantly depleted.


    Witty, ever the most proactive, was the first to run over, carrying a stone of moderate size and scanning for the musical dolphin¡¯s presence.


    Though unsure why the floating base had suddenly rocked, Witty felt it was connected to the dolphin.


    "It seems the battle went smoothly," Grey remarked sincerely.


    Athena looked at her, politely offering her some of the honey.


    "It was easier than I expected."


    She took a few steps forward, nearly at the gate, and said to Grey, "Try to stay inside and avoid coming out."


    Grey nodded understandingly. After all, their goblin clan was a rebel faction, and to creatures of the dark faith, they were an embodiment of divine hatred.


    Thus, Grey had stayed indoors until the situation outside was confirmed to be calm.


    As a human with considerable strength, Athena was less affected by Ilinaya''s intimidating presence, but Grey felt its influence.


    Such higher-level monsters had an inherent pressure on them.


    Athena held the Mermaid''s Tear in her hand. With it in her mouth, she could bypass the barrier and jump into the sea to witness the marvel of the forest-ocean combination.


    Moreover, due to the contract with Ilinaya, she would not be attacked and did not need to worry about her safety.


    A mermen person, having lived their entire life underwater, might long to transform and explore the land. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Conversely, a human who has lived on land all their life might yearn for a fish tail to explore the unknown ocean.


    Given the current conditions, with safety assured, human curiosity was magnified, presenting Athena with a unique opportunity.


    Even if she encountered the sea in the future, it would not be the unique sea created by the system.


    However, in the end, Athena put the Mermaid''s Tear back into her backpack and chose not to take that step. Instead, she returned to her sofa and basked in the sunlight.


    Ilinaya continued to explore the underwater world, her curiosity fully satisfied and her entire being in an excited state.


    As she had previously mentioned, the Third World allied with the relatively weaker Daylight to gain more World Energy.


    But this did not mean it was wholly aligned against the darkness. Athena and the other players were forcibly brought here as part of the border defense.


    To aid in protecting the rear Light Lands, the Third World people were different from them. With the system''s assistance, they could rapidly break through various limitations and grow quickly.


    They could even form an army on their own, making the appearance of Third World people successfully repel the darkness''s fierce attacks.


    The system''s sudden events were not intentional but rather random occurrences it could not accurately predict.


    Being a third-party entity, even an intruder, it could not grasp every move in this world.


    It merely erected a barrier between players and monsters to ensure better player growth, but did not entirely block the monsters. These monsters became regular tower-defense tasks for the players.


    Each monster reorganization was entirely dependent on the darkness''s next attack.


    For high-level monsters like Ilinaya, whether to attack was a matter of free will, not dictated by the call of darkness.


    She chose to heed the call and crossed the barrier chosen by the system, successfully reaching the battlefield to seek an opportunity to enter the Light Lands.


    While exploring the underwater scenery, she awaited Athena¡¯s arrival.


    Such a pity about the Mermaid''s Tear; she had hoped Big Dream might come down to take a look.

 Chapter 110: Easiest Mission Complete

    Chapter 110: Easiest Mission CompleteDespite the unexpected turn of events, it seemed only natural that Athena chose not to descend.


    She had played with the musical dolphins below for a long while, reveling in the feeling that this entire area was her dominion, a realm where she didn¡¯t need to share with other merfolk. Here, she was the true queen.


    As the sky began to darken, signaling the approach of evening, she swam up to the surface. When she emerged again, the familiar sight she had once known was now gone¡ªneither Athena nor the sofa was visible.


    Ilinaya had found Athena irritating, yet she was compelled to interact with her. In frustration, she flicked her tail.


    She resumed her singing outside, her voice still melodious and enchanting.


    Paopao, holding a pinch of salt, carefully sprinkled it into the pot. Glancing at Athena for a reaction, and seeing none, he added a little more.


    Just as he was about to pour more, Athena hurriedly stopped him.


    ¡°That''s enough. Any more and it will be too salty.¡±


    She stirred the mixture with a spoon, tasted it, and confirmed it was perfectly seasoned.


    ¡°From now on, use this as the standard.¡±


    Indeed, Athena was teaching Paopao how to cook. While Paopao had become proficient with ingredient placement, he still struggled with seasoning.


    So, Athena was guiding him step by step. Her seriousness made Paopao uneasy, worried about making a mistake.


    Seeing Paopao¡¯s anxious demeanor amused Athena. She patted his head, ¡°You¡¯re doing very well.¡±


    Her voice revealed her pleasure, and immediately, the little fellow returned to his usual cheerful self. The others, who had been waiting, rushed over to join.


    Athena realized that this approach worked on all the animals at home, except for Witty. Witty would truly lash out and scratch her.


    While serving the food, a melodious song wafted in from outside. It was unmistakably Ilinaya''s.


    She set her bowl down, signaled Paopao and the others to continue, and walked out the door.


    Upon opening the door, she saw Ilinaya singing right at her doorstep. The only time Ilinaya didn¡¯t seem so irritating was when she was singing. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena had not intended to interrupt her, preferring to wait until Ilinaya finished. However, Ilinaya noticed her presence and stopped singing immediately.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid I might leave? What if I don¡¯t return tomorrow?¡± Ilinaya¡¯s tone was brusque.


    Athena pretended to consider seriously, ¡°Would you?¡±


    Silence¡­


    Ilinaya summoned the musical dolphin and guided it towards the floating ''island'' base.


    ¡°Leave it here for today. I¡¯ll return tomorrow. It¡¯s getting late; I need to go.¡±


    The dolphin, seemingly confused, bumped against the floating base¡¯s barrier, its head turning a bright red from the impact. It whined and swam back towards Ilinaya, only to be shooed away.


    ¡°The musical dolphin isn¡¯t a siege monster. It just enjoys following me. Leaving it here is fine.¡±


    Athena wasn¡¯t particularly concerned about the issue, but since Ilinaya had kindly explained, it was even better.


    Just like with the previous snowstorm, even if the monster was driven away, the scene wouldn¡¯t clear up immediately. So, it was perfectly fine for the dolphin to stay outside.


    As she waited for the next day, Athena was curious whether the dolphin would use the same method to summon Ilinaya in the absence of a system portal.


    Of course, this wasn¡¯t something she needed to worry about.


    Watching Ilinaya disappear again, Athena noted that the task was finally complete once Ilinaya passed through the portal.


    ¡¾ Experience Points: 500 ¡¿


    ¡¾ Congratulations, Player Athena, for completing the tower defense mission ahead of schedule! The basic rewards have been sent to your mail!


    Special reward: Conch! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Tower Defense Evaluation: A ¡¿


    Athena was quite surprised by the rating. Despite not doing much and not causing any harm to Ilinaya, in fact it was the easiest mission she accomplished, the system still awarded her an A rating.


    At the same time, she received 500 experience points.


    A plain conch appeared in her palm. She examined it closely. There were no system prompts, and compared to a normal conch, it was merely larger and less attractive.


    After passing through the portal, Ilinaya rubbed her temples, feeling a bit dizzy. A male merfolk, who had been waiting nearby, hurried over to support her.


    He had hair similar to hers, and even his fish tail color was close to hers, though darker.


    This male merfolk looked at Ilinaya with concern and worry.


    Ilinaya brushed off his hand without giving him a single glance and walked away.


    The male merfolk, used to this behavior, was unperturbed.


    He followed closely behind Ilinaya, noticing the absence of the musical dolphin. After a moment of hesitation, he spoke up.


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t the musical dolphin with you? How come it¡¯s missing now? Did something happen?¡±


    ¡°I left it there.¡±


    They conversed as they moved, but their pace remained unchanged, leaving the surrounding fish far behind.


    The male merfolk¡¯s expression turned to one of shock. ¡°Are you really going? Don¡¯t you know that going to the surface is very dangerous for us? And it''s a territory beyond ours, a light land territory¡ªwhat if someone discovers your identity? Didn¡¯t you consider that?¡±


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have agreed to let you go. You said you were just going for a short trip! And you promised to call me if you encountered any danger. That¡¯s why I stayed by the portal!¡±


    Ilinaya finally stopped, looking at him with a serious gaze. ¡°I had intended to call you. But if I couldn¡¯t break the barrier, how could you? They didn¡¯t consider the thoughts of those in the sea.¡±


    ¡°I am definitely going to the light land. I¡¯ve signed the contract. I don¡¯t want to be trapped here forever.¡±


    The male merfolk felt a twinge of fear from her gaze. He backed away slightly but quickly adopted a firm tone. ¡°You¡¯re already of royal blood among the merfolk. What more could you want?¡±


    This comment, however, touched Ilinaya¡¯s nerve. She stared at him coldly, as if viewing the lowest of fish.


    ¡°It¡¯s precisely because I am of royal blood that I have greater ambitions, seizing every opportunity to rise, even if it means death.¡±


    She turned her back on him and swam towards the palace of the merfolk.


    The male merfolk watched her retreating figure with a mixture of concern and helplessness.

 Chapter 111: Reality

    Chapter 111: RealityThe room was filled with a cozy atmosphere, untouched by the disturbances from the outside world.


    After Ilinaya left, the sea returned to its initial calm state. The surface was serene, with a gentle breeze whispering across it, leaving everything unusually quiet.


    Holding the seashell and examining it closely, Athena noticed a circular indentation inside, perfectly shaped to fit a sphere.


    Athena gently traced the indentation with her fingers. The size and shape indeed seemed tailor-made for the mermaid¡¯s tear.


    As she placed the beautiful pearl into the indentation, the seashell began to transform. Its mottled colors turned into a brilliant blue, and the shell¡¯s surface gleamed with a lustrous, glass-like shine.


    ¡¾ Mermaid Shell ¡¿


    Category: Musical Instrument


    Rarity: Rare


    Description: No matter your musical talent, simply place it to your lips and blow, and it will produce the soothing sounds of the sea.


    Has a small chance to grant the blessing of the ocean and a high chance to trigger the Mermaid Song skill, which can confuse the target.


    Seeing the two items merged into one, Athena tried once more to pry the mermaid¡¯s tear out, discovering that it was indeed removable.


    The mermaid¡¯s tear could be used alone or combined with the seashell, but the seashell could only be used in combination. This was convenient since the mermaid¡¯s tear could be retrieved after being placed. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Paopao placed a delicate porcelain bowl in front of her, urging her to eat quickly before the food grew cold.


    Athena put away the items into her system backpack and picked up the bowl from the ground.


    Even though the room had been completely transformed, now featuring a soft and luxurious sofa, they still had to sit on the floor for meals, as there was no table.


    She needed to find time to craft a table from wood or perhaps stack a few wooden blocks to use as one.


    Today¡¯s draw was "clean-up duty," assigned to Grey, who had no complaints and willingly took the bowl outside.


    After a satisfying meal, Athena leaned back on the sofa, while the three small ones cozied up beside her.


    As Athena pondered, having already taught Paopao how to cook, it seemed necessary to introduce cultural lessons for the three small ones.


    The three small ones, enjoying their post-meal time, would have no idea of the harsh cultural lessons awaiting them in the future.


    Before that, during a thorough room cleaning, Athena stumbled upon a deck of cards she had long forgotten.


    Opening the new deck of cards and discarding the instructions, she noticed the three small ones curiously gathered around her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll teach you,¡± she said. Playing cards was a great form of entertainment, and was an easy game to pick up without too much complexity.


    She laid out all the cards and began teaching them how to recognize each one. After two rounds of instruction, Mikmik had almost learned all the cards, Witty understood part of it, and Paopao looked somewhat confused, scratching its head.


    Athena felt helpless and realized that this challenging task needed a professional¡¯s help.


    ¡°Mikmik, teach Paopao to recognize the cards. I¡¯ll teach you all how to play another day.¡±


    Mikmik showed great interest in the cards and became enthusiastic about teaching Paopao, diligently guiding it through the process.


    It was no surprise to Athena that a cat and a bear could understand each other¡¯s language. Watching their exchange was becoming quite routine.


    Tomorrow, they would head to Light Lands. There was no need to worry about Ilinaya; as long as she provided directions, the system would create a portal. Athena had plenty of World Stones.


    One for teleportation and one for disguise.


    The Snow Barrier, Snow Guardian, Redemption, and Mermaid Shell were her current equipment, all of which she would bring along.


    Redemption, an accessory obtained from the regional battle rankings, was an elaborate red wing-shaped earring worn behind the ear.


    ¡¾ Redemption ¡¿


    Category: Earring


    Rarity: Extremely Rare


    Description: A beautifully crafted ear accessory, exquisite in its design, with powerful functionality. Never be deceived by its beauty.


    When on the brink of death, it temporarily protects against fatal damage and continues to restore health. However, you must defeat the enemy within one minute, or you will suffer severe backlash, leading directly to death!


    It offers salvation but also represents the abyss!


    A formidable piece of equipment, it could protect and gradually restore your health when near death, making it nearly invincible.


    However, it had a nearly impossible condition: you had to defeat the enemy within a minute, or you would face a high probability of death.


    ¡¾ Regional Chat Channel ¡¿


    ¡°What¡¯s happening today? Oh my god, was yesterday¡¯s guy actually a prophet? There really was a mermaid!¡±


    ¡°Holy crap, I¡¯m still alive! That¡¯s it, I¡¯m quitting this game for good. It¡¯s way too dangerous¡­¡±


    ¡°Seriously, people keep dying over and over. I¡¯m so fed up with the constant death count. Are they trying to wipe us out?¡±


    ¡°That mermaid was so gorgeous, like my dream lover. Its song was like heavenly music, but I scared it away.¡±


    ¡°What a disaster. After finally scaring it off, my shelter still has a huge hole. How the heck do you even fix this?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m telling you, when I heard that singing, I jumped right into the sea. If I wasn¡¯t a ten-year swimming veteran, I might not have made it back.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re all just showing off. My shelter¡¯s barrier broke and got flooded. It¡¯s still taking in water, and I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll make it till tomorrow.¡±


    After scrolling through the regional chat channel for a while, Athena closed the system panel. She decided not to open all her packages at once in the future.


    Instead, she would open one today. The familiar silver package lay in front of her, and Athena felt visibly tense. Yesterday was yesterday, and today was a new day¡ªthere was still a chance for a turnaround.


    Her hand hovered over the silver package for a long time before she finally pulled it open, and the silver light scattered, revealing its contents.


    ¡¾ Congratulations, you have received World Stone x1. ¡¿


    Athena picked up the World Stone, feeling indifferent. While World Stones were valuable, she wasn¡¯t in immediate need of them.


    Faced with this result, she was unsure whether it was good or bad, though it was likely a positive outcome. It led her to another thought: perhaps she should open another silver package.


    Soon, another silver package appeared in front of her. This time, she felt more confident. The World Stone probably wouldn¡¯t appear again. If only something like the smartphone, solar panels or maybe generator would come.


    But reality, as always, proved to be far from dreams.

 Chapter 112: Trade Like Normal

    Chapter 112: Trade Like Normal¡¾ Congratulations on obtaining a mysterious gem! ¡¿


    Mysterious Gem


    Category: Gem


    Description: An enigmatic gem of sufficient mystery.


    Even though Athena had mentally prepared herself, the moment she laid eyes on the mysterious gem, she almost lost her composure.


    Rather than a gem, it looked more like a plain stone. Holding it in her hand, it felt exactly like a stone, with the color and texture of ordinary rock.


    Was it necessary to cut it open to reveal its whatever it is inside?


    The system hadn''t provided any details about its use or quality; it was simply named "Mysterious Gem," and its description repeated that it was a mysterious gem. It was as if the name and description were mocking each other.


    If Athena had any doubts before, they were completely gone now. The silver wraps had only three left.


    At that moment, Grey returned from washing dishes. Though she didn''t understand what had happened, she could sense that Athena''s mood had noticeably darkened.


    In stark contrast to the trio of small creatures nearby, who were in a state of constant agitation, with Witty occasionally joining in the shrill cries directed at Paopao, the atmosphere in the room was chaotic.


    Grey tiptoed into the room, deliberately slowing her breathing, hoping to quickly put things away and slip out unnoticed.


    Yet, as a goblin, even with her utmost efforts to be unobtrusive, it was hard not to attract attention.


    Athena glanced over and saw Grey sneaking toward the dish rack. Though she was simply putting things away, Grey''s furtive demeanor made it look like she was trying to steal something.


    Athena stood up and walked decisively towards her.


    Though she knew Grey would likely agree to her request, she still needed to be courteous as she was asking for a favor.


    Grey watched as Athena approached with a determined stride, her expression resolute, and couldn''t help but gulp.


    She instinctively wanted to back away but fought against her urge.


    ¡°Grey, may I pull three strands of your hair?¡± Athena asked with the utmost seriousness and sincerity.


    ¡°Y-yes¡­¡± Grey responded, her face twisting into a painful expression. With her severe hair loss, even pulling three strands was a challenge.


    But in the spirit of precision, she selected the longest three strands and handed them to Athena.


    Athena sincerely said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Grey was indeed very accommodating and easy to deal with.


    With Grey''s hair in hand, Athena quickly opened her system panel, while Grey, seeing that Athena was no longer focusing on her, swiftly made her escape.


    ¡¾ Trade Request from Big Bear! ¡¿


    Big Bear was running non-stop, not daring to slow down, in the training ground designed by the goblins for her.


    Wooden stakes were planted all around, and her task was to accurately jump from one stake to another as quickly as possible while dodging the wooden blocks thrown by Grandpa Goblin.


    She couldn¡¯t afford even a moment''s rest because Granpa Goblin also moved rapidly below, knocking over a wooden stake with every pass.


    Big Bear had no choice but to make swift decisions and leap to the next stake without hesitation.


    Although Athena had set special concern for her, she received this information even without opening her system panel.


    She was thrilled because, whenever something urgent came up, she could use it as an excuse to escape the grueling training.


    ¡°Granpa Goblin! Boss Athena, it¡¯s about the goblin hair!¡± Her tone was unmistakably excited, as if she could almost rest.


    In past scenarios, Granpa Goblin would have already agreed to her request. Unfortunately, this time Granpa Goblin was unusually strict.


    ¡°Alright, read it out loud! And don¡¯t stop running!¡±


    Big Bear could hardly believe her ears, but Granpa Goblin''s actions confirmed she hadn¡¯t misheard. Facing the collapsing stakes behind her, she had no choice but to read while running. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡°I can give you three strands of goblin hair, with the same trade price as last time¡ªone silver coin.¡±


    Last time, Athena had proposed this trade, and Big Bear had agreed without objection. It had allowed her to reach the goblin city, indirectly serving as a favor.


    She had no intention of taking advantage of the situation.


    ¡°Agree to her request,¡± Granpa Goblin said, nodding while continuing with her tasks.


    Though Big Bear was initially delighted, she now just wanted to finish quickly. Balancing two tasks was proving too difficult.


    She swiftly transferred the silver coin to Athena, and the three strands of goblin hair were successfully added to her inventory.


    Athena had to commend her efficiency.


    There was still a lot of time left, but she had pressing matters to attend to, specifically the materials she had recently collected.


    If all went well, these materials would be enough to craft three or four fireballs, assuming everything proceeded smoothly.


    The ingredients for the potion were challenging to find, and given her lack of experience, producing even one potion would be a significant achievement.


    In her workspace, cluttered with various bottles, jars, and intricate instruments, Athena sorted through the collected materials. Among them were some clumps of mud and, curiously, a small pot on the floor.


    The pot was for brewing potions.


    After working diligently for some time, Athena nearly lost track of time if not for the system notification.


    ¡¾ Darkness is encroaching upon the world: 10, 9, 8¡­ 0 ¡¿


    The final item Athena picked up was not a potion ingredient but a flower wrapped in beast skin¡ªPurple Dream Bud.


    After multiple tramplings by the Snowstorm Beast and the ravages of a snow storm, it had become somewhat wilted but had been cared for by Athena for a long time.


    With the arrival of the Plant Spirits, it was unfortunate that the spirit ignored the Purple Dream Bud as if it didn¡¯t exist.


    Now, having finally recovered to its original bloom, it was cruelly trimmed by Athena. She had only cut one flower, leaving the others intact.


    She also left a root in hopes that it might regrow, though that was uncertain.


    After crushing the Purple Dream Bud and filtering it into juice, Athena worked with gloves to avoid direct contact.


    The purple juice, shimmering like purple quicksand, was poured into a small spray bottle she had purchased.


    She had yet to test whether the juice from the Purple Dream Bud possessed dream-inducing properties like the flower itself, or if its effects were enhanced or diminished.


    Tomorrow, if time allowed, she might test it on a weaker monster to find out.

 Chapter 113: Troublemakers!

    Chapter 113: Troublemakers!No matter what happened yesterday, the dawn of today will still come.


    "Daylight has arrived; begin your exploration of the world!"


    The person in bed turned slightly, opening her eyes. Although she had just woken up, her gaze was remarkably clear, far from the dazed look of someone who had just risen.


    Last night, Athena had barely managed to climb into bed, her mind exhausted. Even though she had recovered somewhat by this morning, there were still lingering effects.


    She dressed in her military uniform from yesterday, donned her conspicuous Redemption earrings, hid her Snowstorm Guardian necklace beneath her collar, and fastened her Snowstorm Arm Guards.


    As soon as she descended the stairs, she was stunned by the noise. The once orderly room was now a chaotic mess, with things strewn everywhere, a stark contrast to the cleanliness of the previous evening.


    The culprits had long since fled, leaving only a single bear, Paopao, to face the aftermath alone.


    After Athena had retired last night, the little troublemakers had barricaded themselves in the workspace, completely out of earshot. What began as a game with a deck of cards had quickly escalated into mayhem.


    When it became clear that Athena was not responding, the situation had further deteriorated, turning the entire house into a battleground.


    This was the scene Athena faced this morning. Upon realizing the gravity of the situation and its unmanageable nature, the culprits had chosen to hide temporarily.


    After their spree of chaos, Paopao, exhausted, had opted to sleep on its own rack, leaving its fate to chance.


    Athena approached its rack and stared at it in silence. Despite its eyes being closed, the little bear shifted uneasily.


    ¡°Still asleep?¡± Her soft question weighed heavily on Paopao.


    Instinctively, it tried its usual trick of clinging to her for comfort, but Athena gave no leeway. She picked it up and placed it on the highest shelf.


    ¡°Stay here. There¡¯s no breakfast for you today.¡± Her brief statement crushed Paopao¡¯s spirit. Realizing its mistake, the bear dared not look at Athena with its usual pleading eyes.


    Lowering its head, it awaited its fate with some faint hope, only to hear Athena add, ¡°I¡¯ll catch the other two and then clean up the house with you.¡±


    Athena had been quite patient. Some breeds of dogs can be destructive, but these three little ones were just as unruly as any troublemaker.


    The morning sky was brilliantly clear, and the sea breeze carried the fresh scent of the ocean.


    Though the seawater had not entirely receded, it was now possible to see the treetops faintly.


    Contrary to her expectations, Athena searched outside but found no sign of the two little ones.


    They were surprisingly good at hiding.


    Soon after, Grey also got up. The first thing she did was head towards the house.


    Her eyes were still half-closed, but her hunger was evident.


    The moment she opened the door and saw Athena¡¯s face, her soul seemed to fly away. Once she recovered, she abandoned the idea of finishing breakfast and going back to sleep.


    ¡°Have you seen Witty and Mikmik?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Grey shook her head vigorously.


    ¡°May I come in and check?¡±


    Grey stepped aside to let Athena enter. ¡°Please.¡±


    Athena searched thoroughly but found no trace of them, her brow furrowing deeper.


    As she emerged, she sensed something was amiss and added, ¡°Thank you, and good morning.¡±


    ¡°...No need to thank me. Good morning.¡±


    It was improbable they had gone out to sea, but it was still possible; after all, the trees outside were barely visible.


    It was possible they had spent the night on the trees outside.


    After fruitlessly searching around the house, Athena approached Prince and Princess, who were still somewhat sleepy.


    Upon her arrival, Prince and Princess straightened up, as if they were saluting an officer inspecting the troops.


    ¡°Did you see Witty and Mikmik?¡± Athena asked, bending slightly.


    Prince and Princess exchanged glances before unanimously pointing their front paws towards the door.


    Athena was left unsure whether to laugh or feel exasperated. They preferred to hide outside rather than tidy up the house before she woke.


    It was truly frustrating.


    At the gate, she looked out at the vast expanse of what had become deeper lakes.


    The two must not have gone far, just nearby. Indeed, as Athena turned her gaze, she saw the two of them huddled together for warmth.


    Strangely, they were not on the tree branches but on the back of a musical dolphin.


    It seemed that in just one night, the three had blended together and had a lot of fun. Witty and Mikmik appeared quite content as the musical dolphin carried them around.


    ¡°What are you up to?¡± Her voice was not loud, but in the tranquil seaside, it was deafening.


    Seeing Athena at the gate, the musical dolphin instinctively tried to escape with them.


    Mikmik stopped it, so it reluctantly and slowly made its way over.


    Arriving at the gate, Witty and Mikmik pushed each other inside the barrier. They huddled together quietly, neither daring to speak first.


    ¡°Mikmik, you explain,¡± Athena said.


    Mikmik momentarily regained its previous pride, displaying the courage of a warrior going to battle.


    When they realized the house was a mess, they had wanted to hide outside. They ended up encountering the musical dolphin, and after some conversation, they played together. The dolphin had taken them on a tour, and they had forgotten the original purpose of their outing.


    Athena listened, unsure of how to react. ¡°There¡¯s no breakfast left. Clean up the house before lunch; otherwise... there will be no lunch either!¡±


    They finally understood the severity of the situation and trudged back to their room, their path filled with their sorrowful voices.


    Of course, they did not forget to bid farewell to their new friend. Athena wasn¡¯t sure what they said, but she noticed that the musical dolphin¡¯s gaze toward her turned from curiosity to one of fear.


    Athena felt a sense of helplessness about the situation.


    Everything outside was calm and serene, making it impossible to predict how Ilinaya would make her entrance.


    After inspecting the area and confirming no other disturbances, she went inside, opting not to wait in place. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the underwater palace, Ilinaya had spent the entire night restless, constantly pulling items from her backpack, placing them back, and sorting through them without settling on what to bring.

 Chapter 114: Gained Cards!

    Chapter 114: Gained Cards!As the sky began to lighten, Ilinaya felt that she had already reached her limits.


    After a final round of internal struggle, Ilinaya selected a few items she deemed essential.


    The enormous and heavy satchel was effortlessly tossed into the air, shrinking rapidly into a pendant that now hung around her neck.


    Ensuring that no one was around, she swam out of the palace. Unfortunately, she hadn¡¯t traveled far before encountering a male merman blocking her path.


    ¡°Ilinaya! What are you planning to do?¡± The repeated obstructions from the other party had begun to wear on Ilinaya''s patience.


    ¡°I¡¯m saying this for the last time¡ªI have to go. The contract is already signed!¡±


    Ilyashin retracted his hand, which had been blocking her path, and extended a clenched fist towards her. His slender fingers, adorned with long blue nails, created the illusion of a blooming flower when opened.


    Inside was a pendant identical to Ilinaya''s¡ªanother space storage device. Such items were incredibly rare, with each member of their royal family allowed only one.


    Ilinaya had initially thought Ilyashin was there to stop her, but she was surprised to find that he was actually offering supplies he had stored for a long time.


    ¡°Return alive, Ilinaya. And... I¡¯ll come find you¡­¡±


    Her only response was her passing figure. Ilinaya did not accept his gesture of goodwill, leaving him in disappointment. Just as he was about to turn away, he heard a soft whisper pass by his ear.


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    Accompanied by the sound of flowing water, it felt surreal, yet he heard it clearly.


    Watching her retreating figure, he hung the pendant back around his neck and swam away in the opposite direction.


    Ilinaya arrived at the site where the teleportation array had been deactivated yesterday. With the system''s teleportation gate now nonfunctional, even if the musical dolphins called for her, she could not directly reach the place where Athena was.


    However, since a teleportation gate had appeared here yesterday, the spatial fluctuations here were the easiest to tear open.


    Her summoning of the musical dolphins was bidirectional; not only could the musical dolphins summon her, but she could also summon them.


    At the dark depths of the sea, where only endless darkness prevailed, even the fish were asleep. Yet, the beautiful merman sang her song leisurely.


    ¡°Ah~ Ah~¡± Her voice was clear and pure, expressing her longing and summoning creatures from afar.


    The musical dolphin, feeling the vibration in the water, quickly arrived at the shelter and began bumping against it, as if it could not feel any pain.


    Athena rushed out the moment he heard the commotion, accompanied by three small creatures carrying rags and brushes.


    Upon seeing the glowing blue musical dolphin bouncing before the shelter''s barrier, Athena approached.


    Through subtle body language, Athena understood the musical dolphin''s intentions and gently placed her hand on its forehead through the barrier.


    Unexpectedly, the dolphin tilted its head back and played dead, allowing Athena to successfully capture its card.


    This familiar routine gave Athena a sense of dejavu.


    Had news of this loophole spread through everywhere?


    As Ilinaya¡¯s summoning of the musical dolphin grew stronger, the card in Athena¡¯s bag temporarily turned golden.


    However, due to its extreme instability, the golden color flickered intermittently.


    ¡¾ Special Event: Mermaid Summoning ¡¿


    Using the musical dolphin as a medium, teleport to the mermen palace. Difficulty level unknown, teleport destination unknown!


    ¡¾ Detected player holds special merman certificate: Mermaid Tear! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Teleport direction altered, temporary passage formed. Your teammate will arrive in one minute! ¡¿


    ¡¾Would you like to activate it?¡¿


    "Yes"


    A teleportation gate appeared suddenly before Athena¡¯s shelter, directly adjacent to the barrier.


    The blue light on the musical dolphin remained undiminished. After one minute, Ilinaya''s familiar face emerged from the teleportation array first.


    Followed by her fair arm, she tapped on the barrier with her sharp nails, signaling Athena to open it.


    Athena created an opening for her, and she slipped through like a fish. The musical dolphin, as if pulled by an unseen force, was also drawn into her hands.


    As her fish tail was about to touch the ground, it was enveloped in white light, transforming into a pair of long, fair legs.


    Gently touching the ground, she quickly recoiled slightly, as if not accustomed to the temperature and sensation of the surface.


    Nevertheless, she finally steadied herself on the ground. Her remaining scaly-like features gradually faded, leaving behind a breathtakingly beautiful woman.


    She took out a plain veil and put it on, obscuring her features until she appeared ordinary.


    Athena observed the entire transformation, waiting until it was complete.


    Just as she expected something unusual to follow, Ilinaya made a very familiar request.


    ¡°Place your hand on my forehead.¡±


    The familiar procedure and its steps were now second nature to Athena.


    The most complex matters often require the simplest solutions. If one attempt fails, repeating the process multiple times usually works.


    Soon, the notification sound chimed again, and Athena collected another merman card. This card was different¡ªit was transparent.


    Its seemingly ephemeral appearance suggested that this loophole was not guaranteed to succeed, with a certain degree of uncertainty.


    However, this was exactly the result Ilinaya needed. She produced a bracelet made of shells from somewhere and put it on her wrist.


    Athena soon received the system notification.


    ¡¾ Updating data¡­ ¡¿


    ¡¾ Defeated Royal Mermaid: White Grand. White Grand card has been unlocked! ¡¿


    ¡¾ Congratulations Player Big Dream on being the first in the region to unlock the White Grand card. Reputation increased by 100! ¡¿


    ¡¾Please choose carefully! Do you wish to enter the White Grand realm early?¡¿


    "Yes"


    ¡¾Detected sufficient World Stones; choices made automatically! One World Stone for teleportation, one World Stone for disguise!¡¿¡¾Legendary Array activated. Due to its special nature, your temporary team is formed!¡¿


    ¡¾Team Members: 22, Big Dream, Ilinaya¡¿


    After a series of notifications, a teleportation gate appeared before Athena. She restrained the effect of the disguise until the moment she stepped through the gate.


    Indicating for Ilinaya to go first, Ilinaya, without hesitation, used a World Stone and entered the gate.


    Athena followed closely, activating the skill ¡°Boneless.¡± sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Boneless Lv5: Significantly enhances body flexibility, enabling extremely difficult movements and subtle changes in facial bone structure.

 Chapter 115: White Grand Empire

    Chapter 115: White Grand EmpireAs Athena stepped into the teleportation array, subtle shifts in her facial bone structure occurred. Yet, these slight changes had dramatically altered her appearance from what it once was.


    The system¡¯s camouflage function was in effect; Athena¡¯s attire had transformed into simple black clothes, complemented by a large black trench coat adorned with an eagle emblem.


    This journey into the new world was unusual, allowing the accompaniment of one subordinate, a role naturally filled by Mikmik.


    Originally a black grassball cat, Mikmik had been transformed into a white Persian with blue eyes under the system''s disguise. Despite its discomfort with this new form, compliance was mandatory.


    The teleportation, as always, was like a washing machine''s spin cycle¡ªan instinctual need to find a wall for support, a movement so familiar it was almost painful. Mikmik had fallen to the ground in a crumpled heap of feline fluff.


    Athena surveyed her surroundings: a redwood writing desk with an ornate leather-cushioned chair, oil paintings on the walls, and wooden floorboards. The curtains were neatly pleated with tassels, and the entire office exuded a medieval style.


    The room was occupied only by Athena and Mikmik. Outside the window, carriages and people in extravagant attire passed by. Ordinary citizens in simple linen garments stood along the road, making way for the carriages.


    Opening a file on the desk, Athena saw her own face on the first page.


    Identity Card Unlocked!


    Agency: Eagle Claw S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Position: Deputy Director


    Introduction: Known for her capricious temper and cold demeanor, code name ¡®Dream¡¯. Manages the ¡®Locked Affairs¡¯ for the White Grand Empire and oversees urban security.


    Activating her system panel, Athena saw a list of teammates, including herself and Ilinaya, with her as the team leader. A small map icon was visible, allowing them to view each other¡¯s locations. Athena disabled this feature for now; it wasn¡¯t yet time.


    Looking out the window, she noticed that all the noble carriages were heading in one direction. Following their path, she could see the distant spire of a castle obscured by mist. Today seemed to be a significant day, yet Deputy Director Athena was not attending, which left much to ponder.


    Turning the page, Athena found detailed files on the remaining personnel of the Eagle Claw agency. The files were meticulously organized, revealing intricate connections between each member and the royal family. A few were linked to the current state minister, Babron, showing that the Eagle Claw agency was intertwined with political struggles.


    As Athena pondered, footsteps approached from outside the door, followed by a knock.


    She returned to her office chair, gently picking up Mikmik and stroking its back.


    "Come in."


    Two people entered: a middle-aged man with a slicked-back hairstyle and a young woman, both of whom Athena had seen in the files. The man, Carter, worked for Babron and was holding a sword. His face was weathered with stubble and a determined expression.


    Trailing behind him was a neat and efficient young woman, recording notes and mumbling to herself.


    "8th, 5:43 PM, the executor accidentally injured two civilians and damaged one house, with compensation of 54 silver coins."


    "9th..."


    Yuris, the Eagle Claw agency¡¯s finance officer, was like a living calculator. Even if she knew of royal assassinations, she¡¯d respond with a mere hum. Yet, ask her about the agency¡¯s expenses, and she could recount every detail for hours, stressing how difficult it was to secure funding.


    Carter saw Athena seated gracefully, her white-gloved hand petting the white Persian cat, her demeanor calm and elegant. His anger flared instantly, but a single glance from Athena extinguished his rage, leaving him with a diminished resolve.


    He tossed the documents onto Athena¡¯s desk.


    "Director Athena, while you¡¯re here petting cats, you¡¯ve violated Article 149 of the Empire''s laws by embezzling funds from the agency. This proves your disloyalty to His Majesty!" Carter''s posture was rigid, his words sharp, as he prepared to seize the opportunity to advance his own position should Athena fall.


    Athena didn¡¯t even glance up from the documents. She focused intently on the papers Carter had handed her.


    "Continue."


    Carter, enraged by her nonchalant response, dragged Yuris forward.


    "Yuris, explain it to her!" Carter¡¯s eyes gleamed with malicious glee, convinced this would be Athena¡¯s final downfall. "You don¡¯t think you can escape this, do you? No one can save you!"


    Yuris, initially uninterested in the drama, stepped forward at Carter¡¯s insistence. She closed her ledger and, with a respectful bow, addressed Athena.


    "Director Athena, it¡¯s time to set out."


    At Yuris¡¯s words, Athena casually closed the file, picked it up, and set it alight with the desk¡¯s oil lamp, dropping it onto the floor.


    Watching the flames consume the papers, Carter lunged to extinguish the fire, but it was already half-burned.


    His eyes blazed with fury as he glared at the charred remains. "Don¡¯t think burning these files will erase the evidence of your crimes!"


    He then cast a murderous look at Yuris. "So, you¡¯ve chosen to conspire with her, huh? Just wait!"


    Despite his vehement threats, this was his stage alone, as the other two had long since left.


    The files contained evidence of Athena¡¯s corruption, but what of it? In her desk drawer were other documents of her transgressions, even bearing the Emperor¡¯s seal.


    Some feared confronting her but sought to earn merit by secretly reporting her crimes. Yet, every time the Emperor read these reports, he returned them to her.


    The fates of those who had attempted to expose her were long forgotten, buried in unknown places.


    To Athena, these so-called incriminating documents were just ordinary files, casually stored in her drawer without disguise. Anyone who dared to look would find a mountain of evidence.


    The Emperor was not afraid of her greed but rather of her lack of it¡­

 Chapter 116: The Intrigue of the Banquet

    Chapter 116: The Intrigue of the BanquetDespite the apparent ease of acquiring incriminating evidence against her, it should have been nearly impossible for someone of Carter''s standing to achieve such a feat. The audacity of simply presenting a piece of evidence and daring to confront her in her office seemed uncharacteristic of someone with such limited capability.


    Achieving the second-in-command position, aside from Athena, with such qualifications is hard to imagine without considerable backing. This was a pawn on the surface, prominently displayed yet harmless, providing cover for more dangerous moves while simultaneously creating trouble for Athena and her allies.


    Even with Carter¡¯s lack of intelligence, entering the Eagle Claw organization required exceptional skill, and his advanced swordsmanship meant he was not a pawn easily discarded. The fact that those behind Carter chose to give him this information indicates they were well aware of his nature. The only possible explanation was that he had become a useless piece, deliberately abandoned by his handlers. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yet, he believed this to be a reward, a promotion, and came to Athena with genuine enthusiasm. Unfortunately for him, his fate would be as grim as those before him, perhaps even worse. By bringing the matter to the forefront, he would face harsher punishment, serving as an example to others.


    Athena could surmise what had transpired. On the eighth day, a significant scandal rocked the city¡ªsomeone had privately smuggled monsters from outside. The situation had escalated into a city-wide riot, and it was Athena¡¯s subordinates who were investigating the matter. The file detailing this scandal lay prominently on her desk.


    Carter was merely a distraction thrown by the opposing side, hoping Athena would cease her investigation in exchange for the abandonment of this pawn. But this was far from sufficient.


    The carriage outside had been waiting for quite some time, its understated luxury contrasting with its purpose. Although Athena had no intention of attending today¡¯s banquet, Yuris was not the first to invite her, but the only one who succeeded.


    The coachman yawned on the carriage, knowing their director¡¯s typical disposition meant she likely wouldn¡¯t attend. When he saw Athena, he was startled, quickly adjusting his posture.


    The carriage was subtly opulent, adorned with the Eagle Claw insignia. Ignoring the astonished glances along the way, Athena entered the carriage.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± the coachman said, flicking the reins, but a pale hand suddenly caught the carriage door. Yuris, who had been following closely, spoke up, ¡°Director Athena, I¡¯ll accompany you.¡±


    Athena gave her a brief look and nodded. Yuris immediately joined her inside, seating herself opposite Athena and pulling out her notebook to scribble.


    The palace banquet was bustling, with carriages from prominent families lining the castle. Beautiful ladies and well-dressed gentlemen disembarked gracefully. Compared to the gem-encrusted carriages, Athena¡¯s seemed modest. When she stepped out, the air around her momentarily hushed.


    Eyes subtly fixed on her, some ladies tried to conceal their faces with fans. Athena ignored them, not recognizing the families and only estimating their status based on attire and demeanor.


    Most kept their distance, their gazes tinged with a mix of awe and apprehension. Athena and Yuris wove through the crowd and carriages, ascending the steps into the palace. The gatekeepers stepped aside for her, while the noble ladies behind were halted for routine checks.


    Despite the procedure, no one complained, as if it was expected. They moved into the grand hall, adorned with golden splendor. The vaulted ceiling, adorned with intricate carvings, reached dozens of meters high. Sunlight streamed through the massive windows, illuminating the room.


    The walls were draped with luxurious silks and tapestries depicting mythological scenes. The floor was polished marble, each inch exuding opulence, a testament to the imperial wealth and power.


    Athena surveyed the grandeur with a composed expression, though internally, she was struck by its extravagance. In contrast, she seemed like a pestilence within the imperial circle, casually grabbing a drink and finding a seat, indifferent to etiquette.


    Whispers rippled through the crowd:


    ¡°Why is this pestilence here today? She usually avoids imperial invitations.¡±


    ¡°Nothing good, I¡¯m sure. This banquet might not go well. Who knows what trouble she¡¯ll stir?¡±


    ¡°What a waste of the dress I specially ordered for today¡¯s event!¡±


    ¡°Indeed! I even spent a fortune on a dress for my daughter, hoping to impress his Imperial Highness!¡±


    ¡°Such lack of self-awareness to appear at such an event. When did she become so bold?¡±


    Athena, though late, arrived as the main guests had gathered. The subtle click of footsteps on the marble captured everyone¡¯s attention, and a hush fell over the room.


    The emperor, resplendent in formal attire, descended the stairs slowly. His kind smile belied an unspoken authority, his presence commanding respect and quelling any defiance.


    Following him was a young man with striking golden hair and chiseled features, his smile more approachable than the emperor¡¯s. He was the dream of many women.


    The emperor took the stage, surveying the silent crowd below before breaking into a hearty laugh. ¡°Ha, ha, ha! Thank you all for attending my son''s celebration. Please, relax and enjoy yourselves!¡±


    As his words ended, the crowd began to bow, offering their respect and showering him with praise. Athena, amidst them, gave a casual nod, the gesture fitting her demeanor. The emperor¡¯s gaze shifted away from her.


    The elegant waltz began, and guests sought their dance partners, stepping gracefully onto the floor. However, the palace doors, which had been shut, were abruptly pushed open with an incongruous noise.


    Barbron Lawrence entered, drawing the attention of all with his impatience. He furrowed his brow and tapped his cane against the floor. ¡°What are you staring at? Continue your dancing!¡± Yet, no one dared move, their eyes darting between the emperor and Barbron, waiting for the next move.

 Chapter 117: The Veiled Tensions

    Chapter 117: The Veiled TensionsThe jovial atmosphere of the banquet was abruptly interrupted as the guests became aware of their own inappropriate behavior. Someone took the lead and began dancing again, attempting to restore the evening''s spirit.


    Athena observed Babron Lawrence striding purposefully to the side of their emperor. The two stood facing each other, engaged in a private conversation that was punctuated by uproarious laughter, as if they had heard the most amusing joke in the world.


    Yet, amid this seemingly light-hearted exchange, the mood suddenly shifted. The smiles that had once been so genuine slowly faded, replaced by increasingly dark and stormy expressions. Athena wondered what could have occurred to make these two prominent figures lose their composure so drastically.


    Eventually, the facade of cordiality collapsed completely, resulting in an abrupt and discordant end to the gathering. The banquet, which had promised to be a joyous occasion, had instead turned into a battleground of unspoken tensions. The attendees were left in an uncomfortable limbo¡ªtoo cautious to fully enjoy themselves but equally reluctant to stifle the atmosphere altogether.


    As Athena, the assistant, found herself out of place amidst such turmoil, she noticed how Yuris remained oblivious to the surrounding tension. Focused solely on her duties, Yuris was impervious to the odd stares she received, unshaken by the strange looks directed her way.


    Eventually, one such onlooker chose to disengage, their disinterest evident as they turned away.


    Athena, taking a small spoonful of cake, grimaced slightly. The sugar content was overwhelmingly excessive, leaving her unable to taste anything beyond an overpowering sweetness.


    Watching the clinking glasses and murmurs of conversation, she found the scene rather mundane.


    The real drama, she realized, lay in the covert power plays between the influential figures present.


    Though her seat was unobtrusive in a far corner of the grand hall, her keen hearing allowed her to catch a significant amount of information. The evening had, thus far, proven to be more revealing than she had anticipated.


    Within the imperial city, the Eagle Claw Agency and the imperial guards served under the emperor''s direct command. Beyond the city''s walls, however, lay Babron¡¯s domain¡ªlong protected and cherished by the people, with significant military influence.


    Though the current head of the Babron family had chosen a political career, the family''s military prestige and their loyal following had not waned. They maintained their own formidable army.


    The emperor had long harbored resentment towards the overly ambitious Babron family, yet had been unable to address the issue effectively.


    For a time, the two sides had managed to maintain a facade of harmony, but the Prince''s coming-of-age banquet had marked a turning point. On that day, Babron Lawrence''s son had led the guard to a decisive victory against a key monster stronghold.


    The son¡¯s triumph overshadowed the prince¡¯s coming-of-age celebration, rendering the prince''s milestone virtually insignificant compared to the feats of Babron¡¯s heir. This event had become a catalyst for the current covert hostilities between the factions, turning the empire into a simmering cauldron of tension.


    ¡°What is the Babron family trying to do? Are they really considering rebellion? Our emperor is no pushover,¡± an old nobleman, slightly inebriated, interjected into a discussion among the gathered guests.


    The surrounding individuals instinctively distanced themselves from him. A few acquaintances patted his shoulder, signaling to an attendant to escort him away.


    ¡°You¡¯re drunk.¡±


    Everyone knew the unspoken truth, but discussing it openly was risky. Despite the seemingly safe confines of the palace, it was riddled with hidden watchers.


    Once the elderly nobleman had been escorted out, the guests resumed their mingling, turning to lighter topics and recent amusements.


    Among them was a newly ascended noblewoman, resplendent in extravagant attire, appearing somewhat overzealous compared to the others. Eager to make an impression, she engaged each lady in conversation, saying whatever she thought might be well-received.


    ¡°The Eagle Claw Agency is utterly useless, just catching a few mice in the tunnels. How can they still call themselves ¡®eagle¡¯ when they can¡¯t even manage that?¡±


    ¡°And that Director Athena¡ªjust a deputy director. Does she promote herself?¡± She continued as the others smiled at her, increasingly enthusiastic, mistaking their reactions for approval.


    ¡°They¡¯re just arrogant lapdogs in the imperial city. If they¡¯re so capable, why don¡¯t they prove themselves on the battlefield? I¡¯ve heard they¡¯re short on manpower lately.¡±


    What started as an attempt to win favor had now turned into a display of self-indulgence. Those who had initially anticipated her failure now showed their disapproval, distancing themselves from her comments.


    She was taken aback by the sudden shift in the crowd¡¯s reaction. Only one kind-hearted noblewoman offered her a sympathetic glance.


    Following that gaze, she saw Athena seated at a distance, quickly using her fan to cover her face.


    The attempt to conceal her discomfort only drew more attention.


    It was no surprise that she was so flustered; Athena had never attended such events before. This time, she arrived late and had discreetly found a seat, making her presence barely noticeable unless one was specifically looking for her.


    However, the ability to read the room and observe the surroundings was a basic skill for nobles, and as a newly elevated noble, she clearly fell short.


    Athena sipped her juice, masking the cloying sweetness with the tartness of the fruit.


    Though she held the title of deputy director at the Eagle Claw Agency, she was effectively the highest authority since there was no actual director.


    There had been one before, but he had died, and no replacement had been appointed since.


    Midway through the evening, a servant approached Athena with urgency.


    Despite the servant¡¯s hurried pace, he moved with remarkable stealth, avoiding detection and making no sound.


    He lowered his voice, ¡°Director Athena, the Emperor is waiting for you in the palace¡¯s rear garden.¡±


    Athena placed her remaining juice on the servant¡¯s tray but showed no intention of rising.


    The servant quickly made a gesture for her to follow. Yuris, having momentarily closed her notebook, intended to accompany Athena but was held back by her.


    ¡°Wait for me here.¡± Athena adjusted her coat and followed the servant out.


    Exiting through an ornately carved door on one side of the grand hall, they traversed a winding corridor and, after a considerable walk, arrived at the garden behind the palace.


    The garden had been meticulously maintained, featuring an elegant fountain with crystal-clear water shimmering under the sunlight. Surrounding it were neatly trimmed flower beds.


    At that moment, the Emperor and his son, the prince, stood by the fountain, their backs to Athena. They appeared to be admiring the scenery and engaged in conversation.


    Upon hearing Athena¡¯s approach, their conversation ceased. Even in this open space, their words were shielded from any prying ears.


    This was the Emperor¡¯s confidence. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 118: The Mouse

    Chapter 118: The MouseThe old king turned around and beckoned to Athena.


    Athena, not daring to be careless, hurried over. "I''ve called you here to inquire about the situation regarding the ''Mouse,''" the old king said with a grave expression.


    Athena''s demeanor was highly respectful as she immediately knelt on one knee.


    "Our intelligence agents have detected a mysterious energy fluctuation not far from our base. We¡¯ve already sent people to investigate, but the other party has withdrawn, taking their belongings with them. If we don''t find them quickly, it will pose a significant threat to us," Athena said solemnly.


    "Immediately proceed to trace this mysterious energy. Report any dangers immediately and remember, do not act recklessly," the old king instructed.


    "I don¡¯t have much time left," the king added, repeatedly patting Athena¡¯s shoulder, pressing her down slightly.


    Athena looked up with resolute eyes and said, "Understood!"


    She did not reveal any useful information, which was a lapse in duty. However, the king did not hold it against her, or at least, not at that moment.


    The information acquired by the Eagle Claw Agency was far from complete. Unfortunately, she had come in too much of a hurry to review the remaining materials and could only manage with what she had.


    The king waved his hand, signaling her to leave and to relay instructions to the prince standing nearby.


    Once she returned to the hall, she let out a sigh of relief, reaching up to rub her sore shoulder. It seemed their king was quite strong, as this intensity would likely leave a bruise.


    At this moment, the banquet was gradually coming to an end, and the noise was dissipating. Athena walked out of the banquet hall side by side with Yuris.


    Once they settled into the carriage, Yuris raised her hand slightly and made a gesture to the driver. Understanding the cue, the driver cracked the whip and urged the strong horse to gallop towards the Eagle Claw Agency.


    The agency was now eerily quiet, with most people having left their posts. Athena walked slowly back to her office.


    As she gently pushed open the seemingly ordinary cabinet door, the hidden room appeared before her eyes. Inside the hidden chamber was her private room, a different world altogether.


    In the entire Eagle Claw Agency, only she and the workaholic Yuris stayed overnight in the agency. Outsiders said they were crazy to live in such a gloomy place.


    She walked into the small compartment. The space was not large, with a simple single bed in one corner, as if waiting for its owner to return.


    Next to the bed stood a small nightstand with a lamp and a few folders.


    On the opposite side of the bed was a bookshelf, filled with various books. Some of these books were yellowed with age, while others looked brand new, as if just purchased.


    Athena found the folder labeled ''Mouse'' on the nightstand. The ''Mouse'' was another term for monsters within the light lands, a place that was considered untouchable.


    This land was rich in resources, housing many monsters and precious world energy. Not only did countless people seek to enter, but monsters also did.


    The term ''Mouse'' referred to a specific type of monster within this light land. They were reviled like vermin, even more so because their existence was intolerable.


    They had even formed an organization with considerable influence across various kingdoms within the light lands.


    The White Grand Empire, where Athena was based, also had its share of these ''Mouse,'' who had recently been active and were likely responsible for the mysterious energy fluctuations.


    The task to deal with them naturally fell to the Eagle Claw Agency.


    On the 8th, they had caught a lead, and on the 9th, they found one of their bases. Unfortunately, the Eagle Claw Agency suffered heavy casualties. Although Athena suppressed the news and kept it from leaking, it severely impacted subsequent operations. The latest record was from the 13th, when Babron Lawrence¡¯s son appeared near the base Athena''s team discovered and took something away.


    The investigation ended there.


    Closing the file, Athena felt that things were not as simple as she had imagined. A slight misstep might make her a political pawn between the king and Babron.


    Babron Lawrence¡¯s son was the last lead, but given the current situation, she was reluctant to provoke conflict. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yet, if she didn¡¯t, the mission could not proceed.


    She had no choice but to visit the Babron estate¡­


    Beneath the outskirts, there was a vast space shielded by a special spell. Unless someone¡¯s magical ability exceeded that of the spellcaster, the concealment barrier could not be broken.


    Without a knowledgeable guide, no one would discover this place.


    Ilinaya arrived in the light lands, initially very excited, but soon calmed down. Humans struggled to detect their disguises, but monsters always recognized each other instantly.


    Shortly after arriving, she found her kin and, after paying a small price, was led to the ''Mouse'' base.


    The base was different from her expectations. Above was an eternal daylight, while below was a dark realm forged by the monsters.


    Here, they exchanged information and identities, lurking throughout the cities, coming here only at specific times.


    Even here, they did not reveal their true forms.


    A seemingly ordinary young man approached her and assessed her. "New here? Good strength. We haven¡¯t had newcomers in a long time."


    Ilinaya followed him as he gave her a tour of the place. "The battlefield is becoming more dangerous, and the borders are harder to breach. Our numbers are dwindling."


    He looked at her meaningfully. "Do you know what to do?"


    Ilinaya¡¯s pupils darkened, and she smiled, saying, "Of course, destruction¡ªwanton destruction!"


    Here was their paradise, where they could indulge in unchecked destruction, revealing their primal nature. The more severe the destruction, the more world energy would overflow.


    She did not disclose to Athena that in addition to world energy, there was also the world¡¯s secondary source. As they caused chaos, the instability would cause an overflow of secondary sources along with the world energy.


    The world¡¯s secondary source could nourish darkness, and darkness would, in turn, nourish them. However, in the dark lands, secondary sources were tightly controlled by a few monsters. To obtain them, the only option was to come to the light lands.


    The more secondary sources they possessed, the more they could become the dominant force, which was why countless monsters were willing to traverse both lands. Of course, some monsters were simply drawn to violence and destruction.

 Chapter 119: Feathers

    Chapter 119: FeathersRecently, the Eagle Claw Agency had tightened its regulations, leading to a significant reduction in their activities and preventing excessive damage. However, many of their operations had recently moved into the open due to the involvement of high-profile figures.


    For these influential individuals, as long as their own interests were not threatened, the lives of commoners were inconsequential. Sometimes, even riots in the slums were welcomed, as they allowed for the elimination of many restless souls. Moreover, external pressures on the border and the movement of numerous military lines towards the battlefield had plunged the empire into turmoil.


    Desperate people began losing faith in their empire and instead placed their belief in obscure, fabricated ideologies. Adopting a facade of faith, many desperate individuals were willing to serve them.


    Thus, no matter how much the empire oppressed or suppressed them, it was only a temporary setback. It wouldn¡¯t be long before they would rise again.


    Newcomers were not typically introduced to the council so early, but Ilinaya was different. She had offered so much that the rules were bent in her favor. Given sufficient benefits, no rule was too sacred to break. They allowed her to participate in the meeting, but she was still kept away from the crucial parts.


    Ilinaya found this normal. With Athena¡¯s formation of a temporary team, she had also acquired a temporary system panel, though it only allowed her to view the status within the team. Typically, only leaders or top-tier individuals within a faction, such as the Goblin Chief or the Queen of the Giant Bees, had access to such panels. For those at their level, the system was no longer a secret; instead, the Third World¡¯s panel had become a symbol of status.


    Initially, this mysterious object had frightened them, but as time passed and its benefits became clear while its dangers remained obscure, they adapted to it. They marveled at the Third World¡¯s wonders and its power.


    While they had certain functions of the system panel, they did not have the full range. Due to its special nature, Ilinaya had been given a temporary panel. Despite its small size, it symbolized that everything was improving, and she could hardly contain her excitement. She had already examined the so-called team functions.


    As a mere ordinary team member, her functions were minimal, and the sole positioning function had been disabled by Athena. She suppressed her impatience; as long as Athena did not disband the team, it meant that the function would eventually be activated. After all, Athena still needed her to understand the world''s principles.


    The "rats" shifted their battlefield once more. Deep within the underground world, there was a hidden passage. Following the passage, they traversed cramped, narrow tunnels and finally arrived at a door.


    Opening the ancient, intricately crafted door, they did not find the expected meeting room but instead a lake. The passage connected to a lake beneath a cavern outside.


    The leader adjusted his hood and leaped into the lake. The others followed in quick succession, diving in like dumplings.


    They swam deeper and deeper. While the water monsters were comfortable, the other monsters began to struggle. Ahead, the leader released a few bubbles that expanded and formed helmets over the monsters behind them.


    At last, they reached the lake''s deepest point. Here, several tables were firmly anchored to the lakebed, each with a human corpse nailed to it. Unknown symbols were etched beside them, representing both atonement and defiance.


    Beneath the surface, another world awaited. They arrived at a sunken ship and opened the cabin door. The cabin was remarkably dry due to automatic water-repelling features.


    They finally removed their hoods and gathered around a round table. The leader took the main seat, his face obscured and unclear throughout the meeting.


    His voice was husky and indistinct as he asked, ¡°How is Number Eight¡¯s preparation coming along?¡±


    Number Eight, now unmasked, had shed his disguise. His flesh was peeling away, dense fur sprouting wildly, and a long, hairless tail emerged behind him. He was a ratman. ¡°Of course, my companions are scattered throughout the empire¡¯s sewers. Recently, I¡¯ve fed them well. They even thanked me for helping to expand their numbers.¡±


    He spoke with a cunning, lecherous grin, his rat-like teeth quivering as if eager to devour something.


    ¡°Number Thirteen!¡±


    Thirteen still maintained his humanoid form. Seated lazily, he awoke at the mention of his name but remained indifferent. ¡°Ha~ I really don¡¯t get it. What¡¯s the point of these meetings? Just give the order and charge out!¡±


    ¡°Cut it out. Don¡¯t look at me like that. I¡¯m far superior to you useless lot.¡±


    ¡°Those guys address me as the Holy Son. Even the humans I summoned cheered for seeing a divine being right until the moment I consumed them!¡±


    He spoke with an excited, eerie tone, yet there was a calmness, as though he was a benevolent Holy Son embracing everyone.


    He then reported a series of matters. Once it was confirmed that there were no mistakes, the meeting finally concluded.


    In the office, a desk lamp was always on. Its dim light was sufficient for Athena to review the documents. After painstakingly going through the thick files, he discovered a secret in the bookshelf. Among the new books, there was nothing unusual, but the old, dusty ones held a surprise.


    When opened, the center of the old books was hollow, containing various items: evidence of a certain official¡¯s crimes, bizarre collectibles, and valuable artifacts. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena found a feather among them. It was made of metal, with serrated edges at its base, resembling a key. He quickly extracted a nearby book, revealing a map between its pages¡ªa map of the entire imperial city.


    The only marked location was a church. This sect had been entrenched in the empire for years but was considered illegitimate and relegated to the sidelines. The church¡¯s emblematic holy object was also a feather.

 Chapter 120: The Visit

    Chapter 120: The VisitAthena was not particularly surprised by this discovery. There was simply another place that needed to be explored, and none of them were straightforward.


    She had initially intended only to review some documents to check the current status of the Babron family, in preparation for an upcoming visit. However, she did not anticipate uncovering yet another church in the process.


    The files she had just reviewed included not only the internal records of the Eagle''s Claw Agency but also documents concerning various factions. There were royalists, pro-Babron supporters, and even factions beyond the neutral ones¡ªsome that sought to gain advantage and declare themselves rulers.


    The variety of people one encounters over a lifetime is astounding. Athena dismissed these families that failed to grasp the situation.


    The situation was far more complicated than she had imagined. Each time she visited a location, the system would assign her a task based on the circumstances, but this time, there was no task given.


    Was it because she had entered the White Lands too early, or was it because she had yet to find the crucial clue? Was there anything she had overlooked? Party disputes, conflicts between monsters and humans¡ªif it wasn''t any of these, then what could it be?


    The World''s Energy, world energy or whatever it was, was of no use to Athena directly, but it could be exchanged with the system for the materials she needed. There was an 80% chance that this mission might be related to the World¡¯s Energy. Although Ilinaya had promised to help her investigate, Athena did not intend to place all her hopes on her.


    Especially considering that Ilinaya had not recklessly ventured into the White Lands; she had likely joined the organization known as the "Rats" by now. Seeking her out at this moment would be highly imprudent.


    Athena spread out all the files, beginning to construct a network of relationships within the empire, and gained a rough impression of it.


    She had only intended to rest for a short while on the bed, but when she awoke, four or five hours had already passed.


    In the White Lands, there is no night; people''s routines still follow a 24-hour day, divided into morning and afternoon shifts. Both shifts required work, but each half-day included a six-hour break.


    Well, in this empire at least.


    When she stepped out of the dark compartment, the Eagle''s Claw Agency had resumed its normal operations.


    Athena merely sat in her chair, pressed the bell beside her, and immediately, the sound of hurried footsteps was heard from outside. The door was flung open with force, bypassing the usual knocking.


    Yuris entered, holding a steel pen with a deadly gleam. The ink of Yuris'' pen was poisonous; ordinary people who touched it would die instantly. Only Athena could be immune to this poison.


    Upon entering, Yuris quickly scanned the room. Seeing Athena sitting calmly in her chair, Yuris even doubted if the bell had been rung out of mere convenience.


    If there was anything different in the room, it was merely the absence of a Persian cat.


    Despite Athena being her superior, Yuris felt a strong urge to drive the pen into her neck. However, her professional demeanor prevented her from doing so. She reattached the pen to her chest and asked, ¡°Director Athena, has something significant happened that required the emergency bell?¡±


    ¡°Prepare a carriage to the Babron residence for me.¡±


    Yuris paused for three seconds to confirm once more, ¡°Just a carriage?¡±


    ¡°Of course not. You also need to prepare some gifts for the visit.¡±


    Seeing Athena¡¯s sincere smile, Yuris felt her own smile falter and, without responding, turned and walked out. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena was not worried; she knew Yuris would ensure everything was prepared. Losing face for her meant losing face for the Eagle''s Claw Agency, and Yuris would not allow that to happen.


    As expected, Yuris was highly efficient. Before long, she returned and informed Athena that everything was ready, and they could set off at any time.


    Athena then rose and left. The Eagle''s Claw Agency staff continued their work but dared not raise their eyes to look at her.


    Even those on duty would choose to step aside, waiting until she had left before slowly heading to their posts, as if she were some fearsome beast or a flood of disaster.


    The carriage driver who awaited Athena was still the same one from the morning shift. Judging by his state, he likely spent most of his workday idly.


    However, today his attendance rate was unusually high, which contrasted with his usual monthly or annual attendance records.


    The main road was paved with cobblestones, and the surrounding houses featured many overhanging wooden structures. Pedestrians moved quickly, and street vendors would involuntarily halt their cries upon seeing Athena¡¯s carriage.


    Such reactions were typical for any noble¡¯s carriage here, as the lives of commoners were often considered less valuable than the exquisite shoes of the aristocracy.


    Leaving the bustling streets behind, the carriage headed towards the more remote outskirts. From a distance, Athena saw the Babron family¡¯s residence on the hillside.


    It was no wonder that their king was so wary of the Babron family. The construction of the residence alone could rival the king¡¯s palace; apart from being slightly smaller and more remote, it was almost identical in grandeur.


    The symmetrical architecture, three-dimensional sculptures, and clear, imposing outlines were magnificent.


    The carriage stopped at the estate''s entrance, where guards were stationed. They halted the carriage, unmoved even by the displayed insignia.


    In their eyes, their master was the most esteemed, and they had no reason to fear Athena, whom they considered merely a king¡¯s lackey.


    A knight ran inside to announce their arrival. After a long wait, the one who emerged was not a steward but a mere maid.


    The maid glanced at the carriage and signaled for the guards to let it pass.


    As the carriage driver prepared to enter, he was stopped once again and told that Athena needed to enter on foot.


    Yuris, observing with some surprise, saw that their Director Athena actually disembarked calmly and even took the gifts with her.


    She reluctantly followed, surrounded by meticulously trimmed flowerbeds and trees. Each flower was a rare variety, enough to sustain a commoner for a month.


    The lavish display was casually planted around the exterior, even more extravagant than a palace.


    The maid led them without stopping, bypassing the hall and reception area, and took them directly to the dining room.


    At the dining table, Babron¡¯s ministers were enjoying their meal with elegant use of forks and knives. The Duke and Duchess of Babron and their son sat quietly beside them, eating in silence.


    Seeing Athena enter, they wiped their mouths with the prepared napkins and then discreetly withdrew.

 Chapter 121: The Steak

    Chapter 121: The SteakThe maids quickly cleared away the dishes as Athena pulled out a chair to sit down.


    Throughout this entire process, Duke Babron remained in his seat, cutting into his steak with a knife and fork, and continuing to eat without acknowledging her presence. Athena, however, did not hesitate to seat herself directly across from him. A maid promptly served her a fresh steak, placing it before her with delicate care.


    Athena methodically cut into the steak, though it was clear she had no intention of actually eating it.


    "I must apologize for this unexpected visit, and I appreciate Duke Babron''s hospitality in preparing lunch for me," she said, her hands skillfully slicing the steak as if she were dissecting it rather than dining.


    Though they were at odds, both understood the necessity of maintaining basic decorum.


    Duke Babron, who had been silent until now, finally placed his knife and fork down on the plate, wiping his mouth lightly with a napkin. He signaled for the maids to clear the table, including Athena''s untouched meal. She offered no resistance, accepting the gesture with a mild demeanor.


    "Director Athena Ravencroft, you certainly have a unique approach," Duke Babron remarked, his gaze sharp as a blade aimed directly at Athena. "A surprise visit without so much as a prior notice¡ªI''ve been caught off guard."


    His eyes were piercing, challenging, but Athena met his gaze without flinching, refusing to back down.


    "To be honest, this visit isn''t something I would have preferred," she began, her tone measured and calm. "However, your son has done something that we at the Eagle''s Claw Agency find... quite baffling."


    "I thought it prudent to consult with you first before reporting to the King, to avoid any unnecessary misunderstandings. Wouldn''t you agree?" Athena didn''t even bother with her usual professional smile¡ªthere was no need for pretense.


    Upon hearing her words, Duke Babron''s stern expression softened into a more genial smile, starkly contrasting his earlier demeanor.


    "Haha, whatever do you mean? A guest is always welcome in my home; how could I possibly not be pleased by your visit?"


    His smile was radiant, his tone warm and inviting. Yet, his bony hands intertwined on the table, with his right hand incessantly fiddling with the emerald ring on his left thumb. He made no further move, aware that Athena, the head of the Eagle''s Claw Agency and a trusted enforcer of the King, was not someone to be trifled with lightly. Her position was not merely a gift from the King; it was earned through her own formidable strength.


    Without sufficient preparation, no one in this kingdom could take her down without paying a heavy price. Now was not the time to openly confront her.


    "However," Duke Babron continued, his tone still amiable, "I must admit that I don''t quite understand the matter you''re referring to.


    My son is well-known for his kindness and filial piety, as well as his unwavering loyalty to the King. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have joined the Royal Guard and risen to the rank of captain." He paused deliberately, turning to scrutinize Athena with a calculated look. "It''s been quite some time since I''ve heard anyone speak of him in such a manner. What exactly has he done that warrants this visit from you, Director Athena Ravencroft?"


    His hand shifted from the emerald ring to the table, where his fingers tapped rhythmically, creating a sound that could easily have intimidated others present. Unfortunately for him, Athena was unaffected.


    "Oh, it''s nothing major," she replied, her voice steady and unhurried. "We recently discovered a rat''s nest¡ªan enemy hideout. While we were securing the area and preparing to investigate, your son arrived and dug up something rather... interesting. A coincidence, perhaps?


    After all, as the saying goes, truth is stranger than fiction." Athena mimicked his posture, leaning back in her chair as she recounted the events.


    Duke Babron listened to her words and suddenly burst into laughter, his hands retreating to his chest, fingers interlaced.


    "Director Athena, you''re quite the joker. A mere offhand comment from a subordinate, and you rush to my estate to investigate? That''s hardly rational. Even without conclusive evidence, not even you have such authority."


    Athena, however, had no shortage of evidence. "Is that so? I''ve heard your son has been confined to the estate, but aside from your household, is there anyone else who can vouch for him? How can we be certain you''re not protecting him?


    You claim my subordinates aren''t trustworthy¡ªdoes that mean yours are?"


    "You¡ª" Duke Babron, who had maintained an air of unflappable calm until now, suddenly shot up from his chair. His eyes blazed with anger as he glared at Athena, a challenge in his gaze that even the King himself might hesitate to issue.


    How dare she?


    "The Eagle''s Claw Agency conducts its investigations without the need for evidence; a single command from me is all it takes. If you want evidence, Duke, why don''t you provide some to clear your name?


    And besides, there''s no such law in our kingdom, is there? Or have I misunderstood, Duke Babron?"


    Duke Babron felt his fury rising, yet at the same time, a strange sense of relief washed over him. If the King''s most trusted enforcer was this impulsive and foolish, how could he not feel reassured? S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He hoped this was the real Athena.


    "In any case, I won''t allow you to take my son, unless, of course, you seek the King''s judgment. Let''s see how he responds," Duke Babron remarked, his earlier outburst giving way to a calm realization that the situation had always favored him.


    "Of course, I merely sought your opinion," Athena replied smoothly. "Since you''ve made your position clear, I shall report to His Majesty accordingly."


    As their confrontation reached a tense impasse, the butler suddenly entered, whispering something into the Duke''s ear. The Duke waved him away, his expression becoming even more pointed.


    "It seems, Director, that you truly came seeking my consent. However, isn''t it a bit hasty to act before reporting? His Majesty''s Royal Guard is already at the door, waiting to enter." He glanced meaningfully at Athena.


    In response, Athena calmly produced a recording stone from her waist. Recording stones were rare and precious, capable of capturing only a brief 15-second scene.


    She activated it, projecting the image like a film before them. The scene depicted was none other than Duke Babron''s son, caught on the day in question, digging at the enemy base.


    Duke Babron watched the scene in silence, saying nothing more.


    Even during routine operations, the Eagle''s Claw Agency rarely deployed recording stones, especially for what was supposed to be a mere cleanup operation. He had even instructed Carter and other pawns to search for any recording stones used during the previous mission, but they found nothing. He had been confident that Athena couldn''t produce any concrete evidence, believing his status would shield him from the King''s ultimatum.

 Chapter 122: Human Heads

    Chapter 122: Human HeadsWas Duke Babron too weak? Not exactly. Even the mightiest of players can stumble when burdened with a liability, especially one as significant as a barrel of oil.


    It''s not uncommon for one generation to produce outstanding individuals only for the next to falter. Everyone in the empire knows their king and Duke Babron, but who can name the king''s son or Babron¡¯s son? Most refer to him as just "Babron¡¯s son."


    Even the last great achievement credited to Babron¡¯s son was actually a gift from his father. Ironically, this gift overshadowed the prince during his coming-of-age ceremony. Yet, no one could pin anything on Babron''s son¡ªno matter how hard they tried, it all seemed like a mere coincidence.


    Babron¡¯s son, in his eagerness to escape his father¡¯s shadow, didn''t make any significant mistakes. To be safe, he even brought skilled guards with him. With Katarina aiding him, they managed to acquire something crucial. Instead of being praised by his father, he was reprimanded upon his return, leaving him resentful.


    Since then, he¡¯s been confined to the Babron estate, but one cannot escape the inevitable. Unfortunately for him, on that particular day, the guards on duty were joined by Athena, who decided to participate on a whim. Sometimes, luck is a part of one¡¯s strength.


    ¡°If my son is under suspicion, then I certainly won¡¯t protect him,¡± Babron declared. ¡°Director, since you have doubts about my parenting, feel free to take him away.¡±


    Babron, seeing no other option, let his son be taken. It was time for the boy to learn a harsh lesson, to realize he couldn¡¯t escape his father¡¯s grasp.


    Everything proceeded so smoothly that it raised Athena¡¯s suspicions. She guessed that most of the evidence had already been destroyed by Babron; otherwise, why would he so readily hand over his only son?


    Despite this, Athena knew she had made an enemy of Babron. Yet, their king would likely be pleased. They couldn¡¯t use force against Babron¡¯s son; simple questioning wouldn¡¯t yield any useful information. Given his father''s status, he could ignore any pressure.


    From the start, this interrogation was just a formality. The king¡¯s guards had already taken Babron¡¯s son away, leaving Athena¡¯s carriage waiting for her. It seemed their king didn¡¯t want to leave this matter to Athena. He knew it was just a procedural step, so he preferred to keep Babron¡¯s son under his control rather than leave him in Athena¡¯s hands.


    The king could never fully trust Athena. Over the years, the Eagle Claw Agency had slipped from his grasp. The key figures in the agency listened more to Athena than to him, as evidenced by the fate of all the directors he had sent to oversee the agency.


    Athena didn¡¯t mind; she only needed to maintain a balance between the two sides. In the open, their king was still the ruler of the empire. There were too many legitimate reasons to target him, too many resources to tarnish his reputation and make him a public enemy, a fugitive.


    Babron was different. If he wanted to harm Athena, he¡¯d have to do it covertly. Just like this time, the carriage stopped on a rural path.


    Babron knew that an attack wouldn¡¯t kill Athena. It might even cost many lives, but that didn¡¯t matter to him. He wanted to teach her a lesson, a warning. He could simply blame it on a rogue group, knowing any investigation would lead nowhere.


    Suddenly, the carriage halted, and the coachman¡¯s urgent voice echoed outside. At that moment, dozens of shadows emerged, ghost-like figures swiftly approaching Athena¡¯s carriage.


    These attackers were highly skilled assassins, wielding various weapons and exuding a deadly aura. Their orders were clear: eliminate Athena! Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Without any unnecessary words or hesitation, they launched their attack mercilessly. In an instant, blades clashed and sparks flew.


    Inside the carriage, Athena drew a black axe and stepped out, just in time to deflect a sword aimed at the coachman¡¯s throat.


    Yuris stayed motionless inside, confident that Athena could handle the situation. However, witnessing Athena''s reckless fighting style, showing no regard for the carriage, horses, or coachman, Yuris was alarmed and rushed out.


    ¡°Do you know how hard it is to find a coachman willing to work for the Eagle Claw Agency? Do you realize how expensive this carriage and these horses are?¡± Yuris shouted, clearly frustrated.


    These attackers didn¡¯t care; they only knew how to fight.


    Facing the onslaught of dozens of men, Athena showed no fear. Her black axe gleamed, each swing bringing a gust of wind. Wherever the axe fell, blood splattered, and screams echoed.


    Athena¡¯s attacks were relentless, giving her enemies no room to breathe. Under her fierce assault, their formation began to falter, cracks appearing in their ranks.


    ¡°We¡¯re just the first wave. There will be more, each stronger than the last. A lone wolf can¡¯t stand against a pack of wolves,¡± one of the attackers said, but he was swiftly silenced by Athena¡¯s axe.


    With her relentless strikes, the number of attackers dwindled while her momentum only grew, dominating the battlefield.


    Yuris guarded the carriage, swiftly killing anyone who tried to get close with her pen. Each of her victims fell, poisoned, frothing at the mouth, and turning purple.


    Under Athena¡¯s onslaught, the ambush was thwarted, and she calmly turned back to the carriage. But Yuris stopped her, pointing out the bloodstains on her clothes, which would dirty the carriage and incur a hefty cleaning fee.


    The coachman, alone, drove the carriage back, while Athena and Yuris took a shortcut through the woods to avoid drawing attention.


    As they walked, Athena suddenly grabbed Yuris¡¯s arm. If she remembered correctly, they were near the church that revered feathers as sacred.

 Chapter 123: The Church And Fanaticism

    Chapter 123: The Church And FanaticismShe wasn¡¯t familiar with the roads in this area, so Yuris had been leading the way. However, she had made a mental note of the location of the church on the map.


    After leaving the Babron Estate, they continued walking eastward. If they took the next turn, the church should be just ahead.


    Sure enough, it wasn¡¯t long before she spotted a small path, and in the distance, she could faintly see the outline of the church.


    Absentmindedly, she touched the feather in her pocket, quickened her pace, and moved ahead of Yuris, heading toward the church. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yuris was puzzled as to how Athena had suddenly moved ahead of her, only to see Athena take a turn in the opposite direction of the Eagle Claw Agency.


    Frowning, Yuris called out, "Director, you''re heading the wrong way." Her mind was filled with thoughts of the mountain of paperwork and the numerous files awaiting approval.


    As Athena''s trusted assistant, she had taken on most of the administrative work, leaving Athena free to oversee from above. This had left her overwhelmed with tasks, and today had cost her even more time than usual. All she wanted now was to get back to the Eagle Claw Agency as soon as possible.


    Maybe, once all this was over, she could enjoy a quiet drink at the bar.


    Without looking back, Athena continued striding toward the church and offered a brief explanation, "We¡¯re going to check out this church. We might catch a rat by the tail."


    Although Yuris didn¡¯t fully understand, she didn¡¯t question Athena¡¯s decision. Her initial protest had been driven by the belief that their director had once again fallen prey to notorious habit of getting lost.


    "Understood."


    The church, situated on the outskirts, should have been abandoned, with overgrown weeds and an untended countryside road. But as they walked closer, they realized that this path wasn¡¯t an official road; it was one that people had gradually carved out through frequent use. Despite the overgrown weeds on either side, the path itself was bare, indicating that this place was more frequently visited than it seemed.


    After a while, they finally reached the church¡¯s entrance. They could faintly hear the sound of scriptures being recited inside.


    The church wasn¡¯t large, but it was exquisitely designed. The walls were adorned with unknown deities, intricately carved and lifelike, as if they might come to life at any moment. At the peak of the pointed roof fluttered a flag with a sun motif.


    The church¡¯s door was pitch black, with a deep, solemn color that contrasted sharply with the pure white of the church, creating a striking and dissonant image.


    Just as Athena was about to push the door open, it unexpectedly opened from within. An elderly woman, dressed in black, gestured with an unfamiliar hand sign over her chest.


    "Come in, travelers from afar!" Her expression was solemn and reverent, as if chastising them for their tardiness.


    Athena and Yuris entered the church, discovering that the interior was much larger than it appeared from the outside. As they looked up at the domed ceiling, they saw vibrant murals painted in vivid colors.


    The mural depicted a god welcoming his followers, who smiled as they were embraced by the divine.


    The people inside sat quietly on the benches, their hands clasped in prayer. The church was almost entirely full, and their chanting echoed through the vast space, creating a resonance that felt as though the gods themselves were whispering.


    On the platform, the priest raised his hands above his head, shouting incoherently. To Athena, he seemed like a madman, but to the worshipers, he was a vessel for the divine.


    Athena decided not to interrupt this bizarre ceremony and sat with Yuris in a corner. It quickly became clear why the old woman had so easily let them in¡ªpeople continued to trickle in after them.


    Given the remote location and the fact that this church wasn¡¯t part of any official organization, people often came in secret, with some arriving late. The church was lenient about this, with the priest often saying, ¡°The gods will forgive them.¡±


    Yuris was disdainful of this. Whether or not these gods existed was one thing, but even if they did, who would protect a follower who couldn¡¯t even be punctual for a church service?


    Unfortunately, no one seemed to care. Their faith had blinded them. After the ceremony ended, the priest smiled and brought out a box.


    It was clearly a donation box, needing no further explanation.


    The congregation, already clutching the money they had intentionally brought with them, placed it over their hearts, muttering nonsensical words, and then, with expressions of devout reverence and obsession, they deposited their hard-earned money into the box.


    The process went smoothly. Of course, there were those like Athena and Yuris who didn¡¯t contribute, which prompted the congregation to stare at them as if they were criminals.


    It was as if they believed that by not donating, they would incur the wrath of the gods. At that moment, the priest would always step in with a reassuring smile, saying, ¡°They just haven¡¯t yet realized the greatness of our god. In time, they¡¯ll understand.¡±


    Some, after a mixture of the priest''s encouragement and subtle threats, eventually gave in and made a small donation. Others, like Athena, remained unmoved.


    But the donation box lingered beside them, waiting patiently for their repentance.


    They were here just to observe, uninterested in the proceedings, but what the priest did next shook them to their core.


    ¡°The seats are filled with the most devout followers of our god. Our god does not ignore our suffering. In fact, He is still being oppressed by malevolent deities, and we need more power!¡± the priest proclaimed, his eyes scanning the congregation.


    The people, thoroughly brainwashed, were beyond saving. Even the latecomers, despite retaining some sense, could not resist and would eventually be consumed, becoming the next batch of fanatics.


    ¡°But our god has never forgotten us! Today, one of us will be chosen,¡± he continued, pausing for effect, before raising his voice, ¡°to be led by a holy child to serve at our god¡¯s side for eternity!¡±


    To their astonishment, the once-still mural on the dome began to move!


    The painted god emitted a warm, radiant light, while the nearby angels played music. The mural¡¯s followers reached out, and their god guided them to a world without suffering, sickness, hunger, or pain.


    But as the music played, Athena received a notification from the system.


    [ Mental Strength Check in Progress¡­ ]


    [ Check Successful! ]

 Chapter 124: The Boy

    Chapter 124: The BoyThe chapel was far more intricate than she had anticipated. The murals adorning the walls were so lifelike, so vibrant, that it felt as if they were truly guiding everyone toward a beautiful world.


    However, Athena saw something else. In the eyes of the gods and angels depicted on the murals, there was a clear, insatiable greed¡ªnot for wealth, but for human flesh. It was a hunger, a gaze as ferocious as that of a ravenous beast.


    Athena slapped Yuris awake from her trance. The girl quickly regained her senses, but her face was pale, drenched in cold sweat from fear.


    The murals had taken notice of Athena and Yuris¡¯ resistance. The painted figures began to emerge from the walls, taking on a three-dimensional form. A large, warm hand reached out toward Athena.


    The priest, observing that Athena and Yuris had not succumbed to the influence, realized that they were not ordinary people. Still, he wasn¡¯t afraid. He had encountered many strong-willed individuals like them before, all of whom eventually became mere puppets of the chapel.


    Indeed, half of the people in this grand chapel were already soulless puppets, their spirits devoured, while the other half were devout followers who endlessly propagated the chapel¡¯s influence.


    As the massive creature extended its hand toward her, Athena courteously reached out as well, placing her hand into its large palm.


    But as soon as their hands touched, the creature¡¯s smile froze. Athena¡¯s hand, which had been clenched into a fist, opened to reveal a fireball that gently landed in the creature¡¯s palm.


    The ground began to crack, revealing a red glow from within, as a tremendous pressure filled the room.


    The creature¡¯s mouth, which had been wide open in anticipation, slowly closed. It raised its hand slightly, as if wanting to return the fireball to Athena.


    But as the fireball approached her, it became increasingly unstable. Panicked, the creature tried to distance itself from her, but each time it attempted to discard the fireball, the cracks on its surface multiplied.


    Understanding its predicament, the creature¡¯s divine guise faded. Its once silver hair and golden eyes turned jet black, and its irises lost all color, leaving only darkness. It grinned, revealing sharp teeth, its smile now laced with a hint of appeasement. This bizarre and absurd scene, however, was visible only to Athena and Yuris.


    The chapel¡¯s followers had long been blinded by their delusions, unable to see anything.


    The priest, sensing that something was wrong, began to retreat slowly. It wasn¡¯t the creature he feared, but rather this strange human, Athena.


    Yuris turned her head, mimicking Athena¡¯s earlier expression, smiling sweetly as she stared at the priest. She flicked her pen, and it embedded itself in the ground beside the priest¡¯s foot, freezing him in place.


    ¡°Do you like this gift?¡± Athena asked with a teasing smile.


    The creature shook its head vigorously, but seeing her displeased expression, it quickly nodded in agreement.


    ¡°If you like it, then it¡¯s yours to keep,¡± she said lightly.


    The creature was too terrified to even consider rejecting the offer, its head bobbing up and down like a broken toy. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡°Do you recognize this feather?¡± Athena asked, pulling out a feather-shaped key she had kept in her bag. She waved it in front of the creature.


    For such a large chapel to have developed to this extent, it was unlikely to be the work of a mere low-intelligence monster. The feather key likely held great significance.


    As expected, the creature¡¯s tension eased as it recognized the feather.


    The powerful figures of their organization had a peculiar habit of toying with minor beings like it, frightening it half to death each time. It was a good thing it was a monster; otherwise, it would have died of fright long ago.


    The creature pointed at the feather in Athena¡¯s hand, then at the mural on the ceiling, its earlier fear now replaced with submission. It handed the fireball back to Athena, no longer wanting anything to do with it.


    Satisfied with the information she had gathered, Athena took back the fireball. Given that she could still control its stability, there was no need to waste it here.


    Holding the fireball in her left hand, she drew her black axe with her right and struck the creature¡¯s head in one swift motion. Blood sprayed as the creature collapsed.


    Meanwhile, Yuris had already subdued the priest. She used a mild toxin, paralyzing him completely.


    ¡°Take him back to the Eagle Claw Agency. Summon reinforcements to come here,¡± Athena instructed.


    Yuris saluted her and dragged the priest out of the cursed chapel without looking back.


    Although it was Athena who had told her to leave, she couldn¡¯t shake the odd feeling of being left behind so decisively.


    The mural creature remained standing even after death, a headless corpse dripping with blood. Athena stepped onto its neck and pushed off, leaping upward. She grabbed a large gemstone embedded in the ceiling. A hole in the center of the gemstone caught her eye. Without hesitation, she inserted the feather key into it.


    As she slowly turned the key, the ceiling began to open, revealing a hidden chamber above. Athena used her arm strength to hoist herself up into the space.


    She moved with the agility of a monkey.


    To her surprise, the space above the ceiling was an entirely different world. The chamber wasn¡¯t large, but it was sufficient for one person to live in.


    With the ceiling open, light flooded into the previously dark room. Athena sharpened her focus, alert to her surroundings. Suddenly, she heard faint breathing, followed by the clinking of chains.


    She struck a match and tossed it across the room, using the brief flame to illuminate the area.


    In the dim light, she saw a young boy, no older than seventeen or eighteen, kneeling on the floor. His features were delicate, and his hair was a striking shade of blue, like the sun¡¯s rays. Yet, his eyes were a stark white.


    He was clad in a loose white robe, his limbs frail, and his ankles shackled by heavy chains. As the light reached him, he instinctively raised a hand to shield himself.


    The sight of a stranger like Athena made him tremble in fear.


    Athena guessed this must be the "Holy Son" the priest had mentioned. She watched the boy sobbing, her expression cold and indifferent, as she continued to survey the room. But apart from a simple bed and this exquisite boy, there was nothing else.


    When the feather key had been inserted into the gemstone, Athena had felt a brief spatial disturbance, but it was quickly suppressed, leaving only this chamber behind. She couldn¡¯t believe that there wasn¡¯t something else at play here.


    Seeing the boy still crying, Athena casually pulled out her Moonlight Bow and, in a flash, fired an arrow straight at his heart.


    The boy, who had seemed so weak and fragile moments ago, suddenly raised a hand and snapped the arrow in two. His eyes, now filled with a chilling coldness, showed a hint of anger.


    ¡°No more pretending?¡± Athena asked with a knowing smile.

 Chapter 125: The Hideous Beast

    Chapter 125: The Hideous BeastThe creature''s disguise was laughably poor. Even if it hadn¡¯t been Athena standing there, anyone with a bit of sense could see through the facade. Such arrogance and overconfidence¡ªthis creature truly believed that every human who laid eyes on it should either pity it or worship it as a divine being.


    Just like those soulless beings in the chapel, this creature expected to be revered without question. He slowly rose from the cold, stone floor, the chains of cold iron around his limbs clinking ominously with every movement. Desperate, he tried to inch closer to Athena, but another arrow from her bow stopped him in his tracks, this time landing just at his feet.


    It wasn''t that Athena intended to show mercy, but rather that the chains binding him had become his weapon, deflecting her arrow with ease. The once-beautiful and delicate boy before her began to reveal his true form. His mouth split open, far wider than any human¡¯s should, stretching grotesquely as he unleashed a shrill, ear-piercing scream.


    The sound was unbearable, threatening to shatter her eardrums. The sight was even more horrifying¡ªa beautiful face twisted by a monstrous maw, the sheer incongruity of it all surreal and nightmarish.


    Seeing that his attempts to manipulate Athena had failed, the creature decided that killing her would suffice. He launched himself at her, his movements imbued with a ferocious speed. His feet barely touched the ground, propelling him with an explosive force. In a heartbeat, he was in front of her, swinging his chains toward her neck.


    Athena retreated, her bow vanishing as quickly as it had appeared, replaced by the gleaming edge of her black abyss axe. The axe''s blade was sharp and deadly, reflecting the dim light with an ominous glint. She skillfully caught the chain with her axe, twisting it around the weapon¡¯s handle with a swift movement.


    With a powerful yank, she pulled the chain taut, the tension causing it to creak under the strain. Her eyes were cold, unyielding, and filled with the determination to obliterate her opponent. The boy had clearly underestimated her; instead of fleeing from his attack, she had willingly moved closer, throwing him off balance and triggering a deep sense of unease within him.


    He hesitated, his instincts screaming that something was wrong. Yet before he could react, Athena charged forward with blinding speed, her attack unstoppable. The black abyss axe sliced through the air, aiming straight for him.


    Trapped by the short distance, he couldn¡¯t escape. As the axe neared, his face contorted grotesquely once more. His head swelled, the refined features vanishing into a mass of writhing muscles. Three enormous eyes bulged out from one half of his face, while the other was consumed by a mouth that seemed large enough to swallow the world.


    The black abyss axe was caught in that gaping maw, the impact sending tremors through his jaws. His skin split upon contact, blood seeping from the wounds, yet he managed to stop the axe¡¯s advance. Despite the pain, he grinned, his hideous smile stretching even wider.


    Athena stared at his monstrous head, still perched atop a human-like body. "Utterly repulsive," she declared coldly, her words cutting deeper than any weapon.


    The creature¡¯s smile faltered, momentarily frozen by her harsh judgment. But his shock quickly turned to rage. He bellowed a deep, guttural roar, preparing to launch an all-out assault. No longer able to maintain his human form, he underwent a full transformation. His body expanded, muscles bulging as massive wings sprouted from his back. His limbs thickened, exuding an aura of terrifying strength.


    The wooden floor beneath them cracked and splintered under the weight of his enormous feet, and the two of them plummeted downwards from the dome¡¯s hidden compartment. The creature saw an opportunity¡ªAthena was vulnerable midair, while he remained in control.


    But before he could capitalize on his advantage, the chain he had wielded earlier was flung back at him. In a swift motion, it wrapped around one of his wings, yanking him downwards. Unable to maintain his balance, he lost his chance to escape.


    As they fell, Athena clung tightly to the chain. The creature, grounded by the tethered wing, flailed desperately, his remaining wing beating frantically. His plan had backfired, but he wasn¡¯t ready to give up. Aware of her formidable close-combat skills, he decided to use the gathered crowd as a shield.


    These people, long stripped of their souls, sat mindlessly in prayer. The sight of the creature stirred a faint spark of recognition in their empty eyes, and they scrambled towards him, eager to prostrate themselves before their would-be savior.


    Without hesitation, the creature grabbed two of the closest worshippers, holding them up as human shields. "Go ahead, use your axe! These are living, breathing humans!" he taunted, his three grotesque eyes glaring at Athena with twisted delight.


    But Athena was unfazed. She had no intention of sparing anyone who stood in her way. With a flick of her wrist, she tossed aside the hapless worshippers as if they were nothing more than ragdolls.


    The creature¡¯s smugness evaporated in an instant. Though he hadn¡¯t harmed the worshippers, he couldn¡¯t resist a cruel smile. His hands wrapped around the necks of the two people he¡¯d grabbed, ready to snap them as a final threat.


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡ª¡± S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He never finished his sentence. Athena moved even faster, rushing toward him with deadly intent. Even as he crushed one of his captives'' necks, she didn¡¯t falter, aiming to cleave him and his hostages in half with a single, merciless strike.


    Realizing that he was outmatched, the creature¡¯s bravado gave way to panic. He wasn''t built for combat; he thrived on the fear and worship of others, on watching people destroy themselves for his amusement. Now, faced with the reality of his situation, all thoughts of grandeur fled his mind. He desperately wanted to escape.


    But there would be no retreat. The chain still bound one of his wings, preventing him from taking flight. He clawed frantically at it, trying to free himself, but Athena was relentless. Her black abyss axe bore down on him, forcing him to retreat again and again.


    Every time he tried to counterattack, she was a step ahead, exploiting his openings, leaving him battered and bloodied. His strength waned, and he knew the battle was nearing its end.


    Just as all seemed lost, a figure burst into the room¡ªYuris, galloping back into the fray on horseback.

 Chapter 126: The Rat Plague

    Chapter 126: The Rat PlagueThe horse didn''t stop, galloping straight into the church. Yuris remained mounted, her usual composed demeanor shattered by panic. Yet, the battle before her eyes was far from over.


    Athena, without even glancing at Yuris, quickened her movements. Unfortunately, despite its lack of strength, the monster before her was unnervingly agile, dodging with unnatural ease. Killing it would take far more effort than she had hoped.


    The creature, upon seeing Yuris return, grinned as if it had anticipated this. At that moment, Athena felt a dangerous presence rising from beneath the ground. Without hesitation, she pulled back, abandoning the black axe that had nearly struck the monster.


    In an instant, the ground where she had stood collapsed. The creature managed a mocking smile before it, too, was swallowed by the sudden sinkhole.


    Athena was about to give chase, but Yuris dismounted swiftly, grabbing her arm. Yuris, usually calm and steady, had returned alone without bringing reinforcements, which could only mean something dire had happened in the capital.


    The urgency of the situation left no room for delay. Athena remounted, extending a hand to Yuris. "We¡¯ll talk as we ride," she said, her voice steady as if the fierce battle moments ago had never occurred.


    Without hesitation, Yuris grasped her hand and agilely leaped onto the horse. With a sharp crack of the whip, the steed shot off like an arrow, galloping towards the capital.


    The sound of hooves echoed across the deserted road, kicking up a cloud of dust. Yuris, clinging to the horse''s back, quickly reported the situation to Athena.


    "A rat plague has erupted in the capital. Rats, five or six times the normal size, are pouring out of the sewers."


    "They''re attacking people and livestock indiscriminately. Our forces and the city guard are deployed, but we can¡¯t contain it."


    A rat plague? How could something like this erupt so suddenly, especially in such a densely populated city? It had to be connected to the creature¡¯s allies, who had just rescued it.


    Despite being gravely injured, the creature had refused to activate a teleportation array, allowing Athena to sense the faintest ripple of its power.


    As they reached the city gates, the gravity of the situation became clear. Even the guards stationed there had been reassigned to maintain order within the city.


    Inside the walls, the scene was hellish. Giant rats continuously emerged from the sewers, attacking and biting anyone in sight.


    Panic-stricken citizens fled in all directions, their screams and cries of agony filling the air, punctuated by the sickening sound of gnawing.


    The rats showed no fear of humans. They even attempted to attack Athena¡¯s horse when they saw her. However, her steed, well-trained for such dangers, easily evaded them as it charged towards the city center.


    The city center housed wealthy merchants, minor nobles, and intellectuals, all of whom were under priority protection. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena finally spotted the agents of the Eagle Claw Agency, clad in their signature black coats, hunting the oversized rats. But their efforts were futile; the rats were too numerous and too large to be easily killed. Even if their numbers were increased tenfold, it wouldn¡¯t be enough.


    Athena might have been able to take on a few monsters, even several at once, but against a swarm this vast, she was powerless.


    These rats couldn¡¯t have been bred overnight. Even if they had been confined to the sewers, feeding them would have been a massive undertaking. The empire regularly inspected the sewers, yet no one had noticed any changes. This clearly pointed to an internal issue.


    Athena also couldn¡¯t believe that the capital had no means or weapons to deal with such a situation, yet nothing had been deployed.


    [ Mission Selection! ]


    Levels 5¨C10


    The sudden outbreak of rats has disrupted the empire¡¯s peace, causing widespread chaos and disorder.


    Assist the Monsters


    Defeat the Monsters


    [Choose Your Path!]


    [You Have Chosen to Defeat the Monsters!]


    Athena hadn¡¯t expected this at all. It was her first time encountering a mission of this type. Her previous tasks had been aligned with the light, but this one was clearly neutral.


    As the Director of the Eagle Claw Agency, siding against the empire would put her in an extremely unfavorable position.


    Had she not infiltrated the empire using a World Stone disguise, she might have chosen to assist the monsters. Assisting only required minimal help, qualifying as a low-level, Level 5 task.


    But as she accepted the mission, the situation flipped entirely.


    [Defeat the Rat Monsters, Level 10!]


    The mission had escalated to the highest difficulty level!


    After leaving Yuris behind, Athena spurred her horse towards the royal palace.


    Ilinaya and her group were also involved in the operation. However, to Athena¡¯s fury, they had been assigned to the surface, tasked with delaying the Eagle Claw Agency and the city guard.


    Meanwhile, another group was underground, controlling the rats. She had clearly been used as cannon fodder.


    "Mew," a dirty white Persian cat emerged from the sewers, far from its usual graceful appearance. It didn¡¯t even bother to groom itself, as the surrounding rats, initially intent on attacking, suddenly lost sight of it as it vanished.


    The cat had been busy all day, exploring the palace for suspicious areas and items it could carry away. It had uncovered several hidden passages, but most of the valuable items were either out of reach or heavily protected.


    If it touched anything, waves of energy would ripple through the air, revealing its presence.


    In one hidden passage, the cat had overheard a conversation. Startled, it accidentally triggered a mechanism and fled in panic, only to tumble down a pit and into the sewers, eventually reaching the city center.


    Now, Mikmik was desperate to find Athena. During its fall, it had discovered a massive rat nest, the Rat King at its core. Even more shocking, a gravely injured, winged monster was there¡ªand so was the emperor!

 Chapter 127: The Emperor

    Chapter 127: The Emperor[ Task: Repel the Monsters ]


    Difficulty: Level 10


    Objective: Defeat the incoming wave of monsters!


    Reward: Black Iron Set (Level 3), 2000 Experience Points


    Failure Penalty: One day of extreme weakness!


    Athena was already en route to the palace, narrowly missing a potential encounter with Mikmik. On an ordinary day, any horse galloping down the streets would have been stopped by the city guards, but today, everyone was far too preoccupied to pay her any mind.


    The hordes of rats posed a greater threat than the larger monsters, for they were everywhere, wreaking havoc on a scale that demanded more manpower and resources to contain. Individually, these rats were no match for a seasoned warrior, but their sheer numbers made them a formidable challenge.


    Riding swiftly, Athena reached the palace gates. Despite the chaos outside, the two knights stationed there remained at their posts. Upon recognizing her, they dutifully opened the gates¡ªan exclusive privilege granted by the Emperor himself.


    The switch for the defense tower was located in the Emperor¡¯s bedchamber.


    As she read the sudden notification, a sense of unease crept over her. How could such a significant disturbance go unnoticed by the one seated on the throne? And yet, the defense tower remained inactive.


    No matter how peculiar the situation seemed, if she intended to complete her mission, activating the defense tower was imperative. The only forces she could command were the men of the Eagle Claw Agency, but they alone were insufficient to fend off the monstrous onslaught.


    Given that the rat swarm had already begun its assault in earnest, it was only a matter of time before the main force of the monsters arrived. She had to deal with the rat creatures before then, or the situation would only deteriorate further.


    The defense tower might repel the lower-tier rat monsters, but it would do little against the more powerful foes.


    The vastness of the palace, now eerily silent, was unsettling. Not a single maid or guard was to be seen, despite the imminent threat.


    Although one was traditionally expected to be unarmed when meeting the Emperor, she couldn¡¯t help but retrieve the Black Abyss Axe from her pack, gripping it firmly in her hand.


    Before she could proceed to the Emperor¡¯s bedchamber, she spotted a familiar figure in the rear garden.


    The Emperor, as always, strolled leisurely among the flowers. He stood there, his gaze fixed upon the vibrant life around him, his once-vigorous hands now frail as they caressed the blooms before snapping them off.


    Her arrival had not escaped his notice. As he turned to face her, Athena had already bowed in respect, the weapon in her hand vanished as if it had never been there.


    The once-beautiful flowers crumbled in his grasp, falling to the earth below.


    ¡°What is it?¡± His voice, though questioning, was devoid of any emotion, calm and unperturbed.


    His deep gaze bore into Athena as he awaited her response.


    ¡°The ¡®rats¡¯ have begun their attack. The capital is overrun with them¡ªan infestation,¡± she reported, her head bowed low, obscuring the expression in her eyes.


    ¡°And the defense tower has yet to be activated. I assumed the palace might be under attack as well, so I hurried here.¡±


    She kept her gaze lowered, her tone carefully neutral.


    ¡°Have you seen it?¡±


    ¡°I have.¡±


    ¡°Then why are you still here? Maintaining order in the city is the responsibility of the Eagle Claw Agency.¡±


    The Emperor¡¯s words were delivered without a trace of concern, making no mention of the defense tower.


    Athena remained silent, lowering her head even further before asking in a tone devoid of emotion, ¡°Your Majesty, is the defense tower damaged?¡±


    Her words struck a nerve. The Emperor, with a swift flick of his sleeve, approached her with surprising speed. Though old, he still towered over her, his presence intimidating.


    ¡°Do your duty and refrain from asking questions you have no business asking.¡±


    With that, the Emperor turned and left. Once he was gone, Athena began pacing the garden, measuring its vastness with her steps. The rear garden was enormous, occupying nearly half the palace grounds. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Was it possible that their Emperor had such a fondness for flowers? Yet, despite the garden¡¯s apparent beauty, the number of actual flowers was relatively small.


    As she walked, nothing seemed amiss. Athena cast a final, deep look at the garden.


    The Emperor¡¯s aversion to the mention of the defense tower was puzzling. Was the tower truly compromised, or did the Emperor simply refuse to activate it? Activating the defense tower certainly consumed resources, but it was well within the capital¡¯s capacity¡ªit wouldn¡¯t cripple the empire¡¯s economy. The Emperor¡¯s strange behavior was difficult to explain.


    Athena had no intention of confronting the old Emperor directly; it would be a foolhardy move. She had previously arranged to meet with Mikmik, who should have returned by now with any findings. If she couldn¡¯t enter herself, perhaps a cat could.


    There was something about this garden that unsettled her.


    Even if the Emperor suspected her involvement, as long as there was no overt evidence, she could deny it. If she succeeded in repelling the monsters, she would undoubtedly earn the people¡¯s trust, and the Emperor would find it difficult to act against her swiftly.


    She had thought Babron was troublesome, but it seemed their Emperor was no less so.


    This vast empire¡ªapart from the common folk who truly cared for its safety¡ªwas merely a colossal cake in the eyes of the nobility. All they cared about was how much of it they could claim for themselves.


    Even if it meant toppling the cake and dividing it into pieces, they would do so without hesitation, greedily scooping their share onto their plates.


    Meanwhile, the old Emperor had returned to his bedchamber. He moved aside a nearby bookcase, revealing a hidden passageway. The flames within ignited automatically, illuminating the entire corridor.


    Descending the steps one by one, he arrived at a spacious, cavernous chamber directly beneath the garden.


    In this chamber sat many figures, cloaked in black hoods. Beside them was an extravagantly adorned bed, upon which lay the Prince of the White Grand Empire.


    ¡°How goes it?¡± The Emperor, gazing at the sleeping Prince, was visibly agitated.


    The leader of the hooded figures withdrew his hand from the Prince¡¯s body. A worm had silently burrowed into the Prince¡¯s flesh.


    ¡°Of course, a promise is a promise.¡±


    ¡°It won¡¯t be long now. This body will be yours.¡±


    The old Emperor was no longer the diligent ruler he once was. Now, he was merely a decrepit old man, desperately yearning for a young body once more.


    Even if it meant eternal damnation, so be it.


    In the grim sewers below, no more rat monsters emerged, for they had already claimed the streets above.

 Chapter 128: The Old And The New

    Chapter 128: The Old And The NewPanic spread like wildfire. People screamed for help, their voices trembling with fear as they ran in every direction, yet no matter how they struggled, escape from the relentless pursuit of the rat beasts was impossible.


    Fear gripped them tightly.


    The more these frightened souls fled, the more arrogant the rat beasts became. Their shrill cries seemed to mock their prey, taunting them with their inevitable doom.


    Some tried to hide, seeking refuge in the shadows, but the rat beasts¡¯ keen senses left no corner unsearched. Despite the valiant efforts of the city¡¯s guards and the Eagle Claw Agency, they could only manage to protect a fraction of the city. Small as they were, these rat beasts had driven the defenders to the brink of despair.


    Though exhausted, the defenders held onto a sliver of hope. The rat beasts, after all, were limited in strength. With enough force, they could be exterminated. It was only a matter of time.


    But time, it seemed, was no longer on their side.


    From the depths of the sewers emerged new foes. Cloaked in black hoods, their faces varied but their presence was anything but subtle. Compared to these rat beasts, these new enemies were true demons¡ªeach one so powerful that it took several men just to hold one at bay.


    Their arrival drained what little strength remained in the defenders. The situation, already dire, now grew even more desperate. And as if summoned by their presence, the rat beasts, previously on the verge of being wiped out, surged in numbers once again.


    Among these new terrors was a hooded rat-man, from whose robe an endless stream of rats poured forth. Though smaller than the elite rat beasts, these lesser vermin still posed a considerable threat.


    The situation grew increasingly dire, and as time passed, everyone began to sense that something was terribly wrong. They had believed that they only needed to hold out until the defense towers were activated, but as the silence stretched on, a shadow of doubt crept into their hearts.


    Had the palace also been attacked? The Eagle Claw Agency''s director had been gone for so long¡ªwhy was there no word from her?


    Ilinaya was among them, blending into the chaos. Her song, which had no effect on Athena before, now held an immense power. Under the spell of her voice, civilians who had been fleeing suddenly stopped, turning back to willingly walk toward their deaths, obstructing the paths of the city guards and the Eagle Claw Agency.


    The confidence they had lost earlier suddenly returned. Humans were indeed fragile.


    Mikmik emerged from the chaos, but Athena was nowhere to be found. What he did smell, however, was a very familiar scent of fish.


    Mikmik¡¯s nose was not particularly sharp, but he would never forget this scent. He had once bitten into a sea dolphin, and the taste had nearly knocked him unconscious. Ilinaya, with the same scent as that dolphin, had been burned into his memory. He followed the trail.


    And there she was, Ilinaya, unleashing her power. Unlike the last time they met, when she had been in the ocean, now she stood amidst a sea of blood.


    They were responsible for causing chaos in the city center, while another group of monsters outside the city created a pincer movement, cutting off reinforcements from the outside.


    As people screamed, died, and buildings crumbled, tiny, transparent white specks of light began to spill into the air. There were only a few, but Ilinaya noticed them immediately.


    The world¡¯s energy had no effect on her, but she had signed a contract with Athena.


    With a transparent crystal bottle in hand, she collected these lights, her actions drawing curious glances from the other monsters as she observed her surroundings.


    One thing puzzled her¡ªwhy was Athena, with all strength, so silent in this chaos? Even if Athena intended to remain hidden, Athena shouldn¡¯t be so completely inactive in the face of the city¡¯s turmoil.


    She couldn¡¯t help but wonder what kind of expression Athena would have when Athena discovered that the world¡¯s energy could only be collected under these dire conditions.


    Never in her wildest dreams did she imagine that Athena had already transformed into a native.


    Mikmik, having wandered around, quickly grew bored. On his way out, he casually killed a few rats to scratch an itch in his claws.


    As another rat blocked his path, Mikmik ended it with a single swipe.


    A human child, holding his sister tightly, sobbed as he watched a cat flash past. The rat that had threatened them was suddenly gone.


    ¡°Thank you, big kitty! Hoo-hoo...¡±


    Human children were so troublesome, always crying at the slightest provocation. Mikmik needed to get back to the Eagle Claw Agency quickly. What if Athena returned and couldn¡¯t find him? S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Meanwhile, Athena had arrived at the entrance of the Eagle Claw Agency, only to be met by a figure she never expected to see.


    It was none other than Babron. He leaned on a jet-black cane, yet his back was perfectly straight, making it seem like he didn¡¯t need the cane at all.


    As Athena spotted him, Babron noticed her as well. The small detachment of soldiers he had brought with him was already sweeping through the area, clearing out rat beasts and protecting the civilians.


    ¡°Looks like you youngsters still aren¡¯t up to the task,¡± Babron said, lighting a cigar and placing it between his lips. His tone was one of melancholy, though his expression betrayed nothing of the sort.


    With the addition of this small army, the situation began to improve. Babron had even brought out those who usually protected him in the shadows, revealing them in the open.


    ¡°Went to the palace, did you? What did you think? Have you gained any new insights about our dear Emperor?¡± he asked, slowly exhaling a ring of smoke.


    The cigar didn¡¯t seem to taste very good; after a single puff, he discarded it, crushing the expensive cigar underfoot.


    ¡°To be honest, after knowing him for so long, it feels like I¡¯m only now truly seeing him for the first time. Our old comrade... has grown senile.¡±


    ¡°Look at this hellish scene! The empire is falling apart. The new generation is so weak and incompetent, and we old-timers are on our way out.¡±


    To be honest, Athena hadn¡¯t expected Babron to be the only one standing up at this crucial moment.


    ¡°The defense towers aren¡¯t broken. The Emperor has taken control of them. I tried, but I couldn¡¯t get anywhere near his chamber,¡± Athena reported. The palace maids and guards were no ordinary people; they hadn¡¯t disappeared but were all stationed outside the Emperor¡¯s chamber.


    Athena had no way of storming in alone, so she had returned to send Mikmik instead, only to unexpectedly run into Babron.


    Babron looked at her in surprise, as if seeing her in a new light.


    ¡°Hahaha, I thought you were the Emperor¡¯s loyal hound, but it turns out you¡¯re a wolf!¡±


    In her words, Babron detected not a hint of loyalty or respect toward their Emperor.

 Chapter 129: The Clue

    Chapter 129: The ClueIn the dimly lit underground passage, the old emperor paced anxiously by the bedside, his steps growing increasingly restless as the situation dragged on. He cast a worried glance at the others, whose pace seemed to slow with each passing moment, further fueling his agitation.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter with you lot? Why is this taking so long? Isn¡¯t this supposed to be a simple task for you?¡± he barked, his voice tinged with desperation.


    The hooded figure across from him didn¡¯t bother to look up, responding in a calm yet unsettling tone, ¡°My dear Emperor, the current situation is far from sufficient. We haven¡¯t yet obtained what we desire. And who¡¯s to say you won¡¯t renege on our agreement once you¡¯ve got what you want?¡±


    ¡°You insolent¡ª!¡± The old emperor¡¯s anger flared, but he knew the man was right. He wanted to minimize his losses, after all.


    These were his subjects, after all. They could sacrifice themselves for him, and the Empire could be rebuilt. No matter how rampant these monsters became, they would eventually retreat to their dark corners. Once he secured a new body, he would usher in a new era, leading the Empire to yet another glorious age.


    In time, history would remember him as a wise and just ruler. No one would ever learn of his deeds; they would only sing his praises.


    Lately, the fear of death had grown stronger within him. The guards and servants he had chosen were all meticulously trained, their loyalty unquestionable. They would lay down their lives for him, and now, they were all stationed outside. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The emperor''s spies had long since outlived their usefulness; they had become nothing more than traitors. But that was of little concern to him. They couldn¡¯t stir even the smallest ripple against him.


    He could contend with anything¡ªsave for time and mortality.


    ¡°You had best hurry, and don¡¯t think I won¡¯t notice any tricks you might try to pull. Or else¡­¡± A flash of cold, steely resolve glinted in the old emperor¡¯s otherwise cloudy eyes, as though his younger self had resurfaced.


    The man, hidden beneath his dark robes, simply chuckled at the threat. ¡°But of course,¡± he replied, unfazed.


    The lifeblood of a nation, once stolen, could never be restored. The pity was that the old emperor was no longer in his right mind. He still believed that with a younger body, he could lead the Empire to new heights.


    What he failed to understand was that losing the world¡¯s energy meant losing the light of day. The monsters infesting this place would only grow in number until the Empire¡¯s fate was sealed in death.


    Could he not grasp this truth? Perhaps, in the faint remnants of his sanity, he did. But what of it? It wasn¡¯t his concern¡ªhe would leave it to his descendants to worry about.


    Athena and Babron were never ones to exchange pleasantries. She was certain that, given the chance, Babron would have no qualms about driving a dagger through her heart.


    After all, Babron¡¯s son was still held captive by the old emperor.


    The two of them sat casually on the steps of the Spymaster¡¯s headquarters, basking in the sunlight, watching the surrounding soldiers valiantly battle the encroaching monsters.


    After a while, Athena felt something soft brushing against her foot, accompanied by a peculiar odor.


    A layer of mud, clearly dredged from the sewers, had somehow found its way onto her leg, emitting a faint stench.


    That was when Mikmik appeared in her field of vision, a creature more intent on dirtying her up than seeking her out for companionship.


    ¡°Do you have a plan, Duke? The defense tower is within the palace walls. Could you breach it?¡±


    Babron cast her a cold, sidelong glance. ¡°That¡­ is quite impossible. The emperor¡¯s forces and mine are evenly matched. An all-out assault would be required, but how could we ensure the tower¡¯s safety in the process?¡±


    ¡°I thought as much,¡± Athena sighed.


    She picked up the now filthy white Persian cat that had turned black from the grime, and the two pairs of eyes¡ªhers and Mikmik¡¯s¡ªstared intently at Babron.


    He merely raised an eyebrow at Mikmik¡¯s sudden appearance, but asked no questions.


    ¡°Could you create a diversion, Duke?¡± she inquired.


    Babron, combining Mikmik¡¯s ability to move unnoticed, had already pieced together her intentions.


    ¡°Director Athena, I always thought you were a cold and heartless person. Yet here you are, showing concern for the common folk,¡± he remarked, shaking his head with a wry smile.


    If not for the plight of the ordinary people outside, Babron couldn¡¯t fathom why she would go to such lengths. Betraying the emperor would be tantamount to sentencing herself to death, with no reward to show for it.


    But Athena remained unfazed. It made no difference to her whether she offended one side or both, so long as she didn¡¯t cross the System.


    As Babron¡¯s forces continued to rescue more civilians, these people naturally gravitated toward the soldiers, gathering around them in increasing numbers.


    Babron rose from the steps, maintaining the grace of a noble, and ascended to the platform above.


    He tapped the ground with his cane, exerting an invisible pressure that instantly silenced the once-chaotic surroundings. In a moment where many lives hung in the balance, with rat-like monsters still on the prowl, he began his speech.


    ¡°My dear citizens, please allow me to address you as such!¡± His voice boomed, resonating in every ear, bringing a strange sense of calm.


    Athena recognized the technique; Alfred had used it before.


    ¡°Our emperor has betrayed us! He has struck a deal with these monsters, which is why he refuses to activate the defense tower to vanquish them. He has chosen to discard our lives!¡±


    ¡°He is no longer our emperor! He is more despicable than the monsters themselves. He is unfit to be our ruler. Now, I shall lead us in his overthrow. Who will join me?¡±


    The crowd erupted into murmurs. The news was too much for them to process, especially after just surviving the rat plague and losing loved ones.


    They had barely begun to feel relief when Babron, the head of one of the nation¡¯s oldest noble families, now stood before them, claiming that their emperor had betrayed them.


    The defense tower wasn¡¯t inactive due to technical difficulties; it was a deliberate act by the emperor himself!


    ¡°How could this be? Why would the emperor do such a thing? What could he possibly gain?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a lie, surely. I¡¯ve heard rumours that Duke Babron has had rebellious intentions.¡±


    ¡°No, it can¡¯t be. The Babron family has always protected us, and the emperor has been acting strangely in recent years. The taxes have become unbearable.¡±


    ¡°Then what¡¯s going on? Why hasn¡¯t the defense tower been activated? Why did my loved ones have to die?¡± someone screamed in despair.

 Chapter 130: The Spark of Rebellion

    Chapter 130: The Spark of RebellionAs the tension in the air thickened, more and more people began to step forward, their faith placed in Babron, choosing to follow him to the palace for an investigation. Others, weary of further turmoil, remained indifferent; to them, the emperor, no matter who he was, mattered little. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all, it was Babron who had just saved them, and standing by his side was Athena Ravencroft, the Director of the Eagle Claw Agency. The Eagle Claw Agency was a loyal organization dedicated to the emperor, a symbol of unwavering allegiance. Now, with Athena aligning with Babron, it was clear that something significant was amiss.


    Among the crowd, some clever minds were steering the course of opinion. They feared that if they voiced dissent now, the very soldiers who had been protecting them might suddenly withdraw, leaving them to be torn apart by the lurking monsters.


    Babron, of course, did not forget to invite Athena to join him. If he could marshal his soldiers to launch a unified assault on the Ratman¡ªthe creature relentlessly spawning these pests¡ªthey might indeed secure victory.


    At the very least, they could eliminate a major threat and save more lives.


    But Babron chose differently. He decided to disperse his forces to rescue civilians instead of launching a direct attack on the source of the danger.


    Meanwhile, the Eagle Claw Agency and the city guards were occupied with high-level monsters, unable to spare any manpower.


    The Ratman, far from being foolish, seldom lingered above ground, choosing instead to remain in the labyrinthine sewers beneath the city. He would only emerge briefly to release hordes of rats, never for more than half a minute.


    Mikmik¡¯s ears twitched continuously, while Athena remained vigilant. Finally, after another pinpointing attempt, she sensed the creature¡¯s energy fluctuations deep within the sewers.


    ¡°Your Grace, do take care of my cat for me,¡± she said with an air of finality. ¡°I have some unfinished business to attend to.¡±


    Before the Duke could respond, she was off, sprinting towards an open manhole, disappearing into the darkness below.


    The moment she descended, the soft, nauseating sensation beneath her feet caught her off guard. The ground was gone, replaced by something soft and repulsive¡ªan endless mass of rats.


    The darkness within the sewer was more oppressive than she had anticipated. She quickly retrieved a lens, clipping it onto her ear, and her vision brightened, revealing the extent of the blackened surroundings, a reward she get from the regional battle.


    The Ratman, alerted by her sudden descent, had summoned swarms of rats to block her path while he himself made a hasty retreat.


    The rodents swarmed around her, undeterred, some even trying to crawl up her legs. But when Athena produced a half-detonated firebomb from her pack, combined with her natural aura of intimidation, the rats scattered in fear.


    She had no intention of using the bomb. In the gas-filled sewers, a detonation would trigger a chain reaction, possibly blowing up the entire network and causing untold destruction above ground¡ªdamage that might rival the monsters themselves.


    The Ratman, fleeing for his life, called upon his allies, sending out small rats to fetch other creatures. He couldn¡¯t comprehend the sheer audacity of someone who would dare enter the sewers alone, just to hunt him down.


    To him, only a fool or a maniac would do such a thing, and neither was his concern. His job was to unleash the rats, leaving the rest to those other imbeciles.


    Though Ilinaya had taken the world¡¯s energy, the secondary world source¡ªthe true prize¡ªhad been theirs for the taking. Do not underestimate even a sliver of it; it had taken them a considerable amount of time, careful planning, and execution to seize such an opportunity.


    Opportunities like this were rare.


    Athena moved as if the sewers were deserted, quickly locking onto the Ratman. He hadn¡¯t expected her to arrive so swiftly, and a shiver of dread ran through him when he recognized her as the human from the chapel. He had not forgotten the bloodlust in her eyes that day.


    ¡°Where are those idiots?!¡± he cursed under his breath. They had no loyalty to one another, only a shared goal. If the Ratman were to die, their entire plan would suffer a devastating blow, and the world¡¯s secondary source they had harvested would be significantly reduced.


    Outside, the monsters, receiving the rats¡¯ distress signals, rushed to the Ratman¡¯s aid. Ilinaya was the last to leave, casually stowing away the vial of energy. She had only promised to collect it, not how much.


    To be honest, the humans¡¯ delay in attacking the Ratman had been a pleasant surprise; things had gone smoother than expected.


    For some reason, the first thought that crossed her mind when the Ratman was under attack was Athena¡¯s face.


    As the monsters dove into the sewers, the guards and Eagle Claw Agency agents above ground breathed a collective sigh of relief. With the monsters gone, they could finally focus on clearing out the surface rats.


    There was no time to mourn fallen comrades; every second counted.


    Babron led his massive retinue away, the temporary surge in fighting power having improved the situation somewhat. But with his army¡¯s departure, everything reverted to its previous state.


    He had steeled himself to embrace the now filthy Mikmik, who had been soiled beyond recognition.


    To his surprise, Mikmik recoiled, disdain evident in the cat¡¯s demeanor, as it trotted ahead, showing no interest in being held.


    Babron didn¡¯t mind in the least. Being slighted by a cat was a small price to pay as he led his grand procession towards the palace, a clear act of rebellion.


    Inside the palace, preparations were finally complete. The cloaked monster gazed at its work with satisfaction; the handsome prince was now nothing more than an empty shell.


    The emperor, trembling with excitement, could hardly contain himself. He was about to be reborn.


    Once he transferred his soul into the new body and activated the defense tower, it would be as if none of this had ever happened.


    The monster knew that the emperor must not die. This lunatic held the lifeblood of an entire nation and had far more resources at his disposal than they had ever imagined. In his madness, he might drag them all down with him.


    But this old emperor was a rare collaborator. Human desire, once satisfied, only grows, leading to the second, then the third...


    Desire would consume him without end.

 Chapter 131: The Soul Exchange

    Chapter 131: The Soul ExchangeThe swarm of rats recoiled in fear of Athena, yet the Ratman¡¯s command soon drove them back into the fray.


    These creatures were infuriatingly persistent! They even formed a living wall of rats, hindering every step Athena took. Her pace slowed dramatically, as though she were trudging through a boundless swamp, though the mire beneath her feet was very much alive.


    To make matters worse, a few rats clung to her now and then, clawing their way upward. She shook them off quickly, but their incessant harassment was grating on her nerves, filling her with frustration and helplessness.


    She tried every method she could think of to rid herself of the wretched vermin, but they stuck to her like shadows, impossible to shake off. Sensing her struggle, the rats grew bolder, their fear of her diminishing with every passing moment.


    Fortunately, Athena¡¯s body had been strengthened, her resilience bolstered. Otherwise, she would have been covered in bite wounds by now.


    But this couldn¡¯t go on forever.


    Her axe could only do so much against the swarming masses. It would be better to deal with the Ratman first. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Moonlit Bow appeared in her hands, its mysterious, cold light shimmering in the dimness.


    She seemed to merge with the bow itself, entirely unbothered by the rats crawling madly over her body. With unwavering focus, she nocked an arrow and drew the string taut, aiming directly at the Ratman ahead.


    The Ratman¡¯s eyes widened in terror as he felt an icy chill stab through him. His heart raced, cold sweat beading on his brow. An unprecedented fear gripped him, sending shivers down his spine.


    Most men would quail before such a horde of rats, yet this woman stood her ground.


    The rats that had been obstructing Athena¡¯s path began to scatter, retreating towards the Ratman. They burrowed beneath his black robes, melding with him.


    Some of the rats formed another wall between Athena and the Ratman, attempting to block her attack.


    Several arrows flew from Athena¡¯s bow, each one intercepted or dodged. Only one managed to graze the Ratman¡¯s shoulder, merely scratching the surface of his defences without causing any significant injury.


    Not only was the Ratman adept at commanding the swarm, but he was also a formidable foe in his own right. However, his instincts leaned more towards flight than fight.


    Their speed was extraordinary; to the average eye, they were nothing more than fleeting shadows. The Ratman, familiar with every twist and turn of the sewers, led them through a maze of passages.


    This wretched creature was absurdly agile, but once struck by the Moonlit Arrow, its power would slowly devour him from within.


    The Ratman could already feel his body stiffening, his speed waning. He summoned more rats to rejoin his body, attempting to regain his momentum.


    Meanwhile, with the rats no longer obstructing her, Athena¡¯s pace quickened once more. Yet this was merely a temporary reprieve.


    The Ratman, undeterred, never ceased his frantic flight, knowing he was mere moments from reaching the palace, where victory would surely be his, and Athena would fall.


    As they pressed onward, the Ratman, ever cunning, guided their path closer to the palace.


    A creature of the Ratman¡¯s calibre would undoubtedly lose in a direct confrontation with Athena. But if he focused solely on escaping, even she would struggle to catch him.


    Above ground, the monsters were retreating, and even the rats were beginning to thin out.


    With courage restored, the common folk took up arms against the remaining rat-monsters. Their initial terror transformed into righteous anger, fuelled by the loss of their loved ones.


    No longer was this a one-sided massacre; it had become an even match, with the humans slowly gaining the upper hand.


    Duke Babron, leading the people and the army towards the palace, moved with a steady, unhurried pace, unconcerned by the chaos around him.


    Now and then, he would exchange a few words with those nearby, his speech laced with subtle hints, guiding the people to believe that perhaps their emperor truly had abandoned his people and his realm.


    They were like a powder keg, needing only a spark to ignite an explosion.


    The surrounding soldiers treated them with leniency; if someone fell behind, they would be carried or left in place to wait.


    Duke Babron refrained from looking towards the palace, his thoughts unreadable.


    By now, the affair at the palace should be nearing its conclusion.


    In the underground chamber of the palace, a mysterious and potent force was quietly awakening. In the pitch-black darkness, a massive magic circle began to glow, its eerie and ominous light filling the space with a sense of foreboding.


    At the same time, the once vibrant flowers blooming in the palace gardens began to wither, as though drained of life. Their once radiant petals shrivelled, as if consumed by the surrounding darkness.


    In an instant, the garden was left lifeless, a scene of death and decay.


    The sight was enough to send a chill down one¡¯s spine, yet the guards stationed nearby remained unfazed, their eyes fixed unwaveringly on the royal chamber.


    As the light from the magic circle flickered, the prince, who had been lying motionless on the bed, slowly opened his eyes, only to see the lifeless body of the old emperor beside him.


    His gaze, initially filled with confusion, quickly turned to excitement, then to a wild, almost maniacal joy. He sat up abruptly, clutching his head as he broke into hysterical laughter.


    A figure in black robes watched silently, pulling his hood lower over his face before offering his congratulations. ¡°Congratulations, Your Majesty, on your rebirth.¡±


    The old emperor, now in the prince¡¯s body, caressed his smooth, youthful face. Among all his children, only the prince had survived the selection.


    This was his last hope. Though the prince wasn¡¯t a perfect match, the soul transfer had been a gamble he was willing to take.


    And it seemed that even the heavens favoured him, for he had survived the ordeal.


    Lowering his hand, he looked up, his golden hair framing eyes as cold as a thousand-year-old glacier.


    ¡°Our cooperation ends here,¡± he declared, his voice chilling and authoritative. ¡°You¡¯ve received what you came for. Now, be gone.¡±


    His tone was distant, commanding, just like the new emperor of forty years ago, who had once conquered the world with ambition and fervour, fearing no monster.


    The figure in black remained unperturbed, merely raising his hands in a gesture of compliance. He had no intention of lingering. What happened next was none of his concern.

 Chapter 132: An Ever-Changing Situation

    Chapter 132: An Ever-Changing SituationIt wasn''t until that dangerous individual used his teleportation skill to leave that the old emperor finally allowed himself to relax, his nerves unwinding like a taut string cut loose. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    There was no formal contract between him and that individual, only a verbal agreement of cooperation. Either party could break it at any moment without consequence. Ordinary contracts held little sway over either of them. Even third-party pacts, which could bind more effectively, were only useful when dealing with beings from the Third World.


    There was no point in engaging in a self-destructive conflict. It was better for both sides to retreat, each content with what they had gained. After all, both had achieved what they desired.


    Yet, even now, the emperor''s heart raced with excitement. People often say that once you''ve faced death, you no longer fear it. For some, however, it''s quite the opposite. Experiencing death once makes one cherish life all the more, and fear death even more intensely. The emperor was precisely one of those people.


    As for the remaining riffraff, he hardly spared them a thought. Once the defensive tower was activated and half his guards were dispatched, the situation would soon stabilise. He would then publicly announce that a monster had attacked the palace, leading to his apparent death. The prince, fighting valiantly, would be credited with reopening the defensive tower.


    This would greatly elevate the prince¡¯s standing, smoothly paving the way for him to become the next beloved emperor.


    His only concern had been Babron causing trouble. Yet, to his disappointment, the man had made no move, leaving the emperor feeling oddly unsatisfied. He had hoped Babron would stir things up, giving him an excuse to act against him.


    The emperor stepped toward his former body, his hand forming into a claw. With a swift motion, he plunged his hand into the old, frail form, extracting a glowing crystal orb from the abdomen.


    The orb floated in mid-air, radiating a warm light that swiftly enveloped the entire palace. From the palace''s centre, a shield expanded outward, covering the entire city. The rat-monsters, previously running rampant, evaporated in an instant.


    Even the remaining creatures found themselves suppressed.


    The black-robed figure had been teleported outside the city by the defensive spell. Strangely, as he was expelled, a crooked smile formed on his lips.


    From his vantage point, he watched the barrier¡ªa sight that had been impossible to behold for many years.


    Those who had survived the onslaught fell to their knees, some immediately, others slowly sinking to the ground in exhaustion and despair. Tears streaked many faces¡ªsome wept openly, while others shed silent tears, their eyes vacant, as though their very souls had been drained. Their bodies trembled slightly, still gripped by the terror and hopelessness they had just endured.


    The scene was eerily silent, broken only by the occasional sound of sobbing.


    Yet the powerful, holy barrier lasted only a few fleeting seconds before it began to flicker, then shattered before their eyes into countless fragments, which dissolved into the air.


    For the people gathered outside the palace, the brief surge of hope was swiftly crushed, plunging them into a deeper despair than before. The monster attacks had become a regular occurrence, but none had ever been as severe as this. Still, the blow to their spirits was not caused by the attack but by the shattering of the barrier they had always relied upon.


    The once-old emperor, now in the form of a prince, felt the orb in his hand tremble violently. The scene within the orb showed the barrier enveloping the entire imperial city, yet the next image shook him to his core.


    The city¡¯s centuries-old protective barrier shattered just as quickly as it had appeared. Immediately after, cracks formed along the surface of the crystal orb. In mere moments, it shattered in his grasp, leaving his hands bloodied as he tried in vain to gather the pieces.


    Staring at the shards on the ground, he didn¡¯t even feel the pain in his hands. His mind was a blank haze.


    "Impossible! Who could possess such power? If those monsters had the ability to do this, they wouldn¡¯t have been held at bay for a hundred years!"


    What in the world was happening?


    The crystal orb was no counterfeit¡ªno one even knew that he had hidden the defense tower within his body. And if the tower had been fake, how could it have activated the barrier in the first place?


    His frenzied cries alerted the guards outside. A squad rushed in to find the prince, furious beyond words, pounding the ground with his fists, desperately trying to reassemble the broken pieces.


    None of them understood what had happened. Even outside, confusion reigned.


    Except for one man.


    The black-robed figure gazed at the dissipating barrier and calmly took a step forward, crossing into the city¡¯s boundaries with an air of inevitability, as though everything had unfolded exactly as it was meant to.


    Meanwhile, Babron stood before the crowd, his eyes glinting with a hidden smile as he witnessed the shattering of the barrier. Slowly, he stroked his cane, his expression betraying nothing of his inner satisfaction.


    But when he spoke, his voice was one of deep anguish, a sorrowful cry to the heavens. "My friends! Our last hope has been destroyed. Those monsters have shattered our sacred barrier!"


    Babron tapped his cane lightly against the ground, motioning for him to continue forward.


    The people, paralysed by despair and shock, stood frozen, their gaze blank. Yet deep within their eyes, a faint glimmer of hope flickered.


    Athena arrived before any of them, now standing within the withering garden.


    Monsters blocked her path, while behind her, palace guards hurried towards the commotion. She had been pursuing the ratman, but upon realising they were heading towards the palace, she had quickly attempted to destroy the sewer entrance. Though her arrows had missed their mark, they embedded themselves in the surrounding stone walls.


    In an instant, the rat-monsters vanished, and the ratman''s speed slowed dramatically.


    She had succeeded halfway¡ªthe passage had been destroyed, and the ratman lay on the ground, barely clinging to life. But just as she prepared to leave, more creatures crawled out of the sewer.


    Still, she loosed another arrow, this time striking one of the ratman in the abdomen. Had it not struggled, the shot would have pierced its heart.


    She spotted Ilinaya, though it was clear the woman hadn¡¯t recognised her in her altered form.


    With the added wounds, the power of the lunar energy would corrode the rat-man even more fiercely. The poison embedded in her arrow¡ªa potent purple dream buds toxin¡ªthough no longer inducing sleep, had become an inescapable death sentence.


    The rat-man wouldn¡¯t survive.


    Athena had no intention of lingering with these creatures, lest she be surrounded. She was ready to leave, confident they couldn¡¯t hold her.


    Yet, to her surprise, the monsters didn¡¯t attempt to detain her either. Instead, a mysterious formation appeared beneath their feet, and in the blink of an eye, they all found themselves within the garden.

 Chapter 133: The Standoff

    Chapter 133: The StandoffThe tense atmosphere was palpable as both parties formed a standoff, with Athena at the heart of it all. Though the situation was fraught with danger, she had wisely refrained from openly breaking with the emperor, knowing full well that her position remained precarious. Her guards, ever vigilant, stood closely around her, their eyes keenly focused on the threat ahead.


    While they harbored some doubts about Athena, their priority now was to face the monstrous creatures that loomed before them. These ferocious beasts, though terrifying, stirred no fear in the hearts of loyal warriors. Gripping their weapons tightly, they braced themselves for the impending clash.


    The barrier¡¯s shattering was like a signal, heralding the start of a brutal conflict. Both sides sprang into action, fully aware that this battle would be a test not just of might but of strategy.


    On one side stood the feral monsters, each more hideous than the last, charging at the human line with reckless abandon. On the other, human warriors met their advance, resolute and unyielding, their weapons glinting as they prepared for the onslaught.


    It was a fight to the death. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The monsters howled, spewing flames that threatened to engulf the humans. One of Athena''s guards quickly rallied his comrades, raising shields to ward off the firestorm, before launching a counterattack. Swords clashed, cries of battle rang out, and the scene descended into chaos.


    Amongst the mayhem, a ratman lay ensnared at the rear, its life precariously hanging by a thread, while a butterfly-like creature hovered over it, tirelessly working to heal its wounds, battling the mysterious force that surged within the ratman.


    Athena acted swiftly. She pulled from her robes a half-primed firebomb, her gaze fixing on the oncoming wave of monsters. With a firm grip, she hurled the bomb into their midst, feeling the immense power it held.


    The bomb arced through the air and detonated upon impact, unleashing a deafening explosion. Flames and shockwaves radiated outward, engulfing the creatures in a storm of destruction.


    Startled by the blast, the monsters scattered, scrambling to escape the flames, but the inferno spread with alarming speed, consuming everything in its path.


    Though the bomb¡¯s power had already been immense, its repeated failed detonations had compressed its energy further, making this final explosion even more devastating.


    The ratman perished instantly. The remaining monsters and the emperor¡¯s guards lay broken and defeated, many too injured to continue. Though Athena had stood at the furthest point from the explosion, even she felt the heatwave wash over her, the burning sensation momentarily overwhelming. But she quickly regained her composure.


    [ You have obtained the Ratman Card! ]


    The explosion had inadvertently damaged a magical formation in the royal gardens. In the distance, the emperor¡¯s palace began to crumble, revealing a familiar figure emerging from the ruins, supported by others.


    It was the crown prince, carrying a corpse slung over his back ¨C the body of the emperor.


    The prince, his lungs choked with dust, coughed violently as his eyes scanned the battlefield. The moment his gaze met Athena¡¯s, her brow furrowed.


    That look in his eyes¡­ Was this truly the prince who had inherited his father¡¯s mannerisms, or had the emperor somehow taken his place?


    Athena suspected the latter. She vividly remembered their last encounter, and no amount of time could explain such a drastic transformation in the prince¡¯s demeanor.


    "Kill them all," came the cold command. The prince¡¯s voice was low, but the intent was unmistakable. Though his own guards were wounded and weakened, the monsters had been fewer in number to begin with. Now, with the tide turning, it was the perfect moment to deliver a fatal blow. And by "them," the prince clearly included Athena.


    The explosion she had triggered had been too great a threat for him to ignore. He could sense the danger she posed.


    As the prince¡¯s guards moved toward her, Athena reached into her bag and pulled out another firebomb. The prince¡¯s expression immediately shifted.


    ¡°Mind the Director,¡± he ordered, though his eyes remained locked on the deadly device in her hand.


    Surely, he thought, such a powerful weapon couldn¡¯t be anything but a rarity. How could she possibly have another?


    The monsters, originally there to rescue the ratman, now found themselves trapped, forced to fight for their own survival. They cursed their ill fortune, cursing also the shadowy figure they had followed to this place.


    In the midst of the chaos, Ilinaya made her move. Before Athena could fully react, something small latched onto her leg. A cat, with an air of familiarity. Ilinaya immediately recognized it as one of Athena¡¯s creations and quickly followed it, slipping away unnoticed.


    To avoid suspicion, she continued to duel one of the guards, leading him farther from the fray. The second firebomb exploded behind her moments later, but thanks to her swift retreat, she was spared any serious injury.


    Her eyes now fixated on Athena, watching her every move. No wonder she hadn¡¯t been able to locate her earlier ¨C Athena¡¯s appearance had changed. But, upon closer inspection, Ilinaya could still discern the features she knew so well.


    The two would not harm each other, bound as they were by a mutual agreement. Ilinaya had already gathered a fair amount of the world¡¯s energy, and she was ready to hand it over to Athena when the time came. However, if anything were to happen to Athena now, their contract would be nullified, and chaos would surely follow.


    As Mikmik disappeared into the shadows once more, it circled Athena¡¯s feet before slipping into the basement. It had been here before, though its last visit had triggered a trap, and someone had been present.


    That cane-wielding old man, with his irritating habit of treating Mikmik like a mere cat, had made it sniff something out last time. Foolish humans.


    But now, with no one around, Mikmik was free to rummage as it pleased. It soon found a small shard, unsure of its significance but careful nonetheless as it picked it up.


    Meanwhile, outside, the palace echoed with the sounds of collapsing stone and bestial roars, the once-steadfast guards now uneasy and fearful.


    Yet Babron remained unmoved. He stood his ground, waiting in silent anticipation. Time passed, and still, he waited, unflinching.


    Finally, Babron and his men moved forward, entering the palace without hesitation, though not before reassuring the uneasy crowd gathered outside.


    Among the people, a figure slipped unnoticed. He had just returned from outside the city, discarding his previous attire to assume the guise of Babron¡¯s son.


    None of the common folk knew of the capture, and Babron¡¯s son was still a highly regarded figure. His presence alone restored hope among the people, calming their fears once again.

 Chapter 134: The Final Curtain Draws Near

    Chapter 134: The Final Curtain Draws NearAt last, everyone had gathered!


    Under the leadership of Duke Babron, a large crowd surged into the palace like a mighty wave, their presence strikingly prominent under the sunlight. At the forefront strode Babron himself, his tall, imposing figure and resolute expression exerting an invisible pressure on all who beheld him. Every step he took was firm and purposeful, laden with unwavering resolve.


    Inside, where a fierce battle had been raging with no clear victor, the appearance of this unexpected group was akin to a stone cast into a calm lake, instantly shattering the atmosphere of intense combat. Every gaze was inevitably drawn towards them.


    Even Athena, who had been watching the infighting with detached amusement, shifted her attention.


    Some within the crowd noticed the emperor being carried by his guards. Whispers began to spread, their focus falling on the gaping wound in the emperor¡¯s abdomen.


    Those who had believed the emperor had abandoned them now found their faith wavering. What they were witnessing starkly contradicted what Babron had told them.


    Their prince was valiantly leading the charge against the monstrous invaders, while their old emperor had already perished. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With just one glance at the army Babron had brought, the prince knew what scheme he was concocting. Fortunately, despite a few mishaps with the barrier, the story was still unfolding as the prince had planned.


    ¡°Attack the monsters with all your might! Do not allow them to harm Duke Babron or the people!¡± The prince¡¯s voice was both commanding and impassioned.


    Yet, beneath that powerful exterior, there was a tremor¡ªa hint of sorrow that could not be ignored. ¡°My father has fallen in battle. I shall now take up his mantle and protect you all!¡±


    When he spoke of Duke Babron, his tone grew notably heavier. As for Babron¡¯s son, though the prince had imprisoned him in the palace¡¯s secret dungeons, it wasn¡¯t beyond possibility that Babron had bribed someone to set him free.


    Those who had been hesitating now felt a wave of guilt wash over them.


    The prince¡¯s display of grief was heart-wrenching, but Babron¡¯s performance surpassed even that, his sorrow so deep that he turned his head away, silent.


    Even Babron¡¯s son, standing beside him, appeared suddenly overcome with anguish and disbelief.


    ¡°Father! Why would you do this? You! How could you ally with those foul creatures?¡± His voice trembled with fury, each word spat as though it had been shattered before emerging.


    Sensing something amiss, the prince rushed forward to stop him, but his body suddenly grew stiff, veins bulging beneath his skin.


    And then, he saw it¡ªa layer of white debris falling from his face, fluttering to the ground.


    With a trembling hand, he touched his cheek, only to realise that his face had fractured into countless shards, like a broken mask, pieces of it falling away.


    It wasn¡¯t just his face. Parts of his body were also disintegrating, shedding in pieces.


    ¡°Father, you conspired with monsters in your pursuit of immortality, refused to activate the defense towers, sabotaged them, and even went so far as to take possession of my cousin¡¯s body!¡±


    ¡°You are no longer fit to be emperor!¡± With that, the "Babron''s son" tore off his human skin mask, revealing the face beneath¡ªit was the prince himself.


    The true prince, his soul, in his body.


    The figure that had the old emperor''s soul, now stripped of his disguise, had the appearance of Babron¡¯s son.


    Those present were completely stunned, their minds struggling to process the revelation.


    At this moment, the old emperor understood. The problem wasn¡¯t with the defense towers¡ªit was with him. He had not possessed his own son¡¯s body as he had thought but instead that of Babron¡¯s son.


    The Emperor and Babron were equally ruthless; neither had any qualms about using their sons for their own gain.


    Only the old emperor knew the location of the defense towers, a secret passed down through generations to prevent any ill intent. The towers were impenetrable to monsters and would even injure them if they came too close.


    The soul-swapping technique was most effective when used on a direct blood relative; otherwise, the backlash would be severe, and a long period of adjustment was required. Few survived this process, and eventually, only the prince had.


    The old emperor had no fear of failure. If the ritual went awry, he was prepared to take everyone down with him. Yet, to his dismay, the ritual had succeeded.


    Under pressure from the Babron family, he had taken Babron¡¯s sister as his queen, giving him the blood connection needed for the ritual. Babron¡¯s son had undergone the same conditioning as the prince, making him the perfect vessel for the old emperor¡¯s soul.


    Now, as the old emperor opened his mouth to speak, he found himself unable to utter a sound.


    Instead, it was the prince¡¯s voice, who survived the ordeal, filled with righteous indignation, that resounded through the hall, cementing the narrative in everyone¡¯s mind. The pieces of truth fell into place: their emperor had made a vile pact with monsters, willing to sacrifice his people for immortality. He had stolen Babron¡¯s son¡¯s body and attempted to kill the prince to maintain his power.


    Thankfully, Duke Babron had saved the prince, who, in his anguish, had stepped forward to accuse his father, sacrificing his familial ties for the greater good. His bravery would be sung for generations.


    The old emperor could feel the life slipping from his newly claimed body, his hard-won second chance at life fading away.


    The defense towers had always been controlled by the ruling monarch, their location known only to the emperor of the day. While they could be activated by any being of the light, only the emperor could shut them down. This fact sealed the old emperor¡¯s guilt.


    Yet, because of the failed soul swap, the towers no longer recognised him. They had initiated self-destruct mode.


    But the towers could be restored if handed over to the true emperor. And now, they only recognised one ruler¡ªthe prince.


    The old emperor had so many plans left unfinished. His resentment was palpable, but now he couldn¡¯t even command those who once followed him. His soul, like his body, was disintegrating.


    He was merely a secondary player in this grand tragedy, his role to appear at the crucial moment and then quietly exit, having helped the protagonist bring the drama to its climactic end.


    And one of the main actors in this grand play was undoubtedly his son, grown beyond recognition.

 Chapter 135: The Performance

    Chapter 135: The PerformanceBefore the guards behind the Emperor could even react, they saw him collapse to the ground, writhing in agony.


    These guards were once the late Emperor¡¯s death-sworn followers, accomplices to all the dark deeds he orchestrated, including this soul-switching affair. They knew that once the Prince took the throne, they would be the first to face his wrath.


    Caught between a rock and a hard place, with the Babron army ahead and monsters at their back, they were well and truly trapped.


    After expressing his sorrow and fury, the Prince turned to Babron and the citizens.


    "Your Grace, Duke Babron, esteemed citizens, I grieve for the deeds of my father. Now, allow me to put an end to this farce.¡±


    With just a nod of his head, the army stationed to protect the people moved forward in perfect synchrony, launching a full-frontal assault. They did so only after receiving Duke Babron¡¯s own subtle signal, allowing the Prince to assume command.


    Curiously, the monsters and the guards shared the same thought: to flee this accursed battlefield. A guard who had once summoned Athena sprinted forward, scooping the barely-breathing Emperor onto his back before retreating.


    The monsters, too, wisely separated themselves from the chaos. They had realized the Black Robe had betrayed them. Black Robe had promised them a plan¡ªan opportunity to converge inside the palace and destroy the defense towers from within.


    Their orders were to eliminate the palace¡¯s elite. If anyone else had suggested it, they wouldn¡¯t have believed them. But Black Robe, one of the highest-ranking members of their council, was beyond reproach¡ªhe had established the entire ¡®Rat¡¯ organization. Even now, they couldn''t fathom why he¡¯d turn on them.


    However, they had no choice but to flee, taking all they could carry, for a drawn-out battle would only work against them. With the Ratman''s mass attack neutralized, the Eagleclaw Agency and the royal guard could now spare reinforcements.


    Their instincts were sound, but this was no place for easy exits.


    The explosion earlier had caused a section of the ground to cave in, revealing the underground chamber from which they had initially teleported. Now, it seemed their only escape route lay there.


    But soon, Witty swooped in, clutching a volatile explosive orb and dropping it beside the formation. Then, with a swift movement, it returned to Athena¡¯s side, guiding her to her next vantage point.


    By now, everyone noticed that Athena had circled far from the battlefield''s centre, and had readied her bow from a distance.


    She loosed an arrow, with a precise trajectory that sliced through the air, striking the underground chamber where Wit had placed the explosive. This was no ordinary explosive¡ªit was a failed creation of hers, notoriously unstable, and sensitive to the slightest energy disturbance.


    As the Moonlight Arrow struck the vicinity, the ensuing energy surge triggered the precarious orb.


    In an instant, a brilliant flash lit the area, followed by a searing blast that spread shockwaves at a terrifying pace.


    The confined space magnified the explosion''s destructive force, reducing the teleportation array, along with the entire basement, to rubble.


    They had wanted to stop Athena, but none could match her speed. All they could do was watch in horror as the explosion unfolded.


    Neither Duke Babron nor the Prince truly wanted to kill the monsters. It was all for show¡ªa calculated move to give the impression of a final stand. After all, cornered beasts are the most dangerous, and forcing the creatures into a desperate battle would only end badly for them. These monsters cared nothing for human lives or the destruction of buildings.


    Now, however, with their escape route obliterated, both the Emperor¡¯s faction and the monsters had no choice but to flee through the palace and out into the city¡ªan ordeal that would prove perilous.


    For a fleeting moment, Athena sensed the murderous glares from all sides. If looks could kill, she would have been torn apart by now.


    But she had no choice; her mission was not yet complete.


    ---


    Objective: Defeat the Monsters Difficulty: Lv 10


    Objective: Repel the monster invasion!


    Reward: Black Iron Armor (Set 3), 2000 Experience


    Failure: Severe Debilitation for one day!


    Current Progress: 39%


    Warning: Success requires 60% completion or higher!


    ---


    The progress was abysmally low. Given the monsters'' weakened state, her mission should have been much further along. If she let them escape now, her task would be impossible to finish.


    A full day of severe debilitation wasn¡¯t necessarily life-threatening¡ªif she could remain within a safe haven for its duration. But the system had never played by conventional rules before and even slightly change the words and contexts of the missions. In the span of one day, there were plenty of opportunities for her to meet a grisly end.


    Moreover, the Black Iron Armor intrigued her greatly.


    Naturally, the monsters shifted their focus to Athena, aware that she was now their primary threat. No one particularly cared for her anymore, that much was clear.


    The soldiers, however, remained unaware of the true meaning behind their orders. They blindly charged ahead, engaging in a savage and bloody battle with the enemy. Their only thought was to press forward, no matter the cost. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    On the chaotic battlefield, their vision was clouded with rage and hatred, their minds consumed by the grief of losing loved ones. Their single goal: annihilate the guards and monsters in their path!


    With unyielding determination, the soldiers threw themselves into the fray. Wielding their weapons with fierce cries, they engaged in brutal hand-to-hand combat, using their bodies as shields against enemy assaults.


    One must admit, Babron¡¯s conditioning of these soldiers was impressive. They no longer feared death. At his command, they would charge headlong into certain doom.


    Among them were several individuals of exceptional skill. Without them, even these well-conditioned soldiers would be nothing more than fodder for the monsters.


    Athena, however, had no intention of being swarmed by this rabble. Who knew when Babron might suddenly turn on her with some underhanded scheme, then nobly declare her a martyr for the kingdom?


    Gathering all her strength into her legs, she darted into the crowd with lightning speed. Babron had brought these men along merely to lend credence to his words and to ensure the Prince¡¯s smooth ascent to the throne. Of course, there was also the possibility that he wished to tarnish the late Emperor¡¯s legacy.


    Now, however, these men had become Athena¡¯s perfect shield.


    Previously, people viewed Athena as a cunning, unpredictable official with a volatile temper. But now, seeing her fight to thwart the Emperor and the monsters, they had begun to see her in a new light.


    More than that, she had cornered the monsters, leaving them with no escape. It was a truly satisfying spectacle.


    Standing openly beside Babron and the Prince, Athena even managed a polite bow and a professional smile.


    Babron may have been smiling, but Athena could tell he was seething inside. The Prince, on the other hand, seemed calm, as though he genuinely regarded her as a national hero, full of admiration.

 Chapter 136: Teleportation

    Chapter 136: TeleportationMikmik lazily sauntered over to where Athena had just been standing, leaping effortlessly into her arms as she scooped him up.


    "Director Athena is quite the expert in our country. With your participation, I am confident our soldiers will claim victory even faster."


    "As for the Duke''s forces, they''ve just endured a battle. I''ve suffered no small internal injury and am in no condition to fight again."


    "Besides, we must have faith in our nation''s warriors; they are more than capable."


    An awkward silence fell over them, while the prince of their realm continued his performance, fully embracing the role of a tragic figure. Tears stained his cheeks, though they had yet to dry.


    Babron, that scoundrel, had no qualms about sacrificing his own son, a scheme he had long been orchestrating.


    Athena gently stroked Mikmik¡¯s fur. She wasn¡¯t sure what kind of magic the little creature had worked, but his fur concealed an array of hidden treasures. As she stroked him, her hand would occasionally uncover an item, which she promptly stored in her system inventory.


    Though the objects were small, Athena trusted that anything Mikmik brought back was of value.


    Mikmik, evidently pleased by her attention, opened his mouth to reveal a gleaming shard¡ªa fragment of a crystal ball. Despite the old emperor''s best efforts to retrieve every piece, a few had managed to slip through the cracks.


    Even such a tiny shard, when given to the right person, could summon a new crystal ball imbued with the nation''s power.


    Though the presence of a defense tower would expedite the creation of protective shields, weakening the monsters and hastening their defeat, Athena felt no urgency.


    The real concern lay with another group. She, after all, was merely a passerby here. In the grand scheme of things, whether or not the defense tower existed held little consequence for her.


    Athena did not reach out to take the shard from Mikmik¡¯s mouth. Instead, Babron, having spotted the cat, approached them.


    The situation had reached its conclusion, and his men were working swiftly to deal with the monsters, engaging them in a desperate struggle.


    The old emperor must be reclaimed, for the ancient monarch still possessed many valuable things.


    It would be ideal to secure Mikmik¡¯s shard quickly, but if that proved impossible, they would have to capture the old emperor and discuss terms later.


    Babron, in a bold move, reached out to stroke Mikmik, but the cat dodged at lightning speed, baring his teeth in a menacing snarl.


    Babron sighed, abandoning the attempt, and simply held out his hand. Mikmik spat out the shard into his palm, leaving a trace of saliva behind.


    Unfazed, Athena calmly stored the staff in her system inventory, unconcerned that Babron might notice her spatial abilities. By the time anyone reached such high-ranking positions, it was common knowledge that people possessed such items for storage.


    Babron was equally unbothered by her actions. The moment the shard touched his hand, it emitted a strange glow, clearly gathering energy. Without hesitation, Babron passed the shard to the prince, as if returning it to its rightful owner.


    Their prince was an odd one. Though his smile appeared harmless, and his actions seemed normal, he delicately accepted the shard with a handkerchief, avoiding direct contact.


    Only Athena noticed this small detail; the others were too distracted by the spectacle above. Even if they had seen it, they would not have thought much of it.


    The shard, already glowing, began to fully activate in the prince''s hands. Strange light flooded in from all directions, drawn by the fragment¡ªthe residual, shattered energy of the world itself, flowing into it continuously.


    The era of the old emperor had ended. A new ruler was about to ascend the stage of history, and this newly formed crystal ball symbolised the beginning of his reign.


    Radiant beams shone from the orb, each one representing hope and the future. The ball served as a beacon, and around it, a fresh protective barrier rose, more brilliant and durable than the last.


    The moment the new emperor grasped the crystal ball, it was as if the very world trembled in response.


    Everyone was caught up in the sensation¡ªa ritual unique to the lands of Light.


    Regrettably, the monsters fared poorly. In an instant, they were crushed. After fighting for so long, their strength had already been depleted, and despite their resilience, they were now covered in wounds of varying sizes.


    More troubling still, their leader had vanished without a trace, abandoning them.


    Ilinaya had drawn the short straw. Her first mission, her first venture into the field, and she found herself in this deathtrap.


    Athena, judging by her expression, recognised Ilinaya, but showed no inclination to save her. On land, Ilinaya was far weaker than in water, and now her voice felt on the verge of giving out from the strain.


    In her current half-dead state, things didn¡¯t look good. If she died, she would ensure Athena went down with her.


    The monsters were either dead or gravely injured, and Athena finally spoke. "Hold the remaining few for now. The mastermind isn¡¯t among them."


    The remaining monsters had lost all will to fight. Three or four of them posed no real threat. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The prince readily accepted her suggestion.


    The monsters were nearly annihilated, yet Athena''s progress had stalled at over half the rate and wouldn¡¯t budge.


    As she watched the peculiar prince, a thought occurred to her. The shard hadn¡¯t even touched him directly; it had glowed in Babron¡¯s hand, not his. Only the monsters feared the shard, avoiding contact with it.


    With the nation¡¯s heir deceased, it was natural that a new candidate would be chosen. Clearly, the fragment had chosen... Babron.


    Their prince was merely a figurehead.


    The prince and Babron noticed Athena¡¯s scrutiny and turned to grin at her. Their smile was disconcerting, like a predator sizing up its prey, as though they intended to devour her.


    They didn¡¯t bother hiding their true intentions because, in their eyes, Athena was already a lamb to the slaughter.


    Making deals with the devil...


    This place was less an imperial city and more a monster¡¯s breeding ground, with the new leader of the nation having struck a pact with the creatures. Babron was even more ruthless and deranged than their previous emperor.


    Having completed her mission, Athena made a swift decision: teleport.


    Ilinaya, who was part of her team, was also transported away. In the midst of the confusion, Athena didn¡¯t forget to toss a firebomb at the prince.


    As the explosion erupted, her mission progress ticked forward once more.


    That ¡®prince¡¯ was the true key to the mission.

 Chapter 137: Return

    Chapter 137: ReturnThe old emperor was no saint, and neither was Babron. Their generation had been led astray by these two decrepit figures. The so-called ''heir''¡ªthe prince¡ªwas nothing more than the leader of another monstrous faction. Though they held each other in check, unable to move against one another, it was inevitable that one day this fragile balance would shatter, exposing their mutual deceit.


    As the light from the teleportation array grew brighter, Athena stepped forward without hesitation. Her figure was instantly swallowed by the dazzling radiance, and Mikmik quickly followed her into the array.


    Ilinaya, who had been watching from the side, was drawn forward against her will by the sheer force of the array.


    In the blink of an eye, she, too, was transported.


    The journey was smooth, without the slightest jolt or discomfort. When Athena opened her eyes, she found herself in familiar surroundings. The water that had previously protected her base had completely receded, leaving behind only a few lingering aquatic creatures, forced out of the depths.


    [ Teleportation successful. You have returned! ]


    [ Mission settlement in progress, please wait¡­ ]


    Sunlight broke through the clouds, illuminating the entire base. The trees in the surrounding forest swayed gently, their leaves rustling in the breeze, restoring the world to its original peaceful state.


    No sooner had Athena arrived than Ilinaya was unceremoniously flung out of the teleportation array, landing heavily on the ground. Her previous injuries reopened, and blood oozed from the wounds.


    Meanwhile, Witty and Paopao were busy outside the base, moving the remaining aquatic monsters. When they saw someone suddenly appear in the courtyard, they were startled.


    Witty, quick as ever, rushed back inside. Paopao, halfway through the task, suddenly grew in size and dragged back the fish monster Witty had left behind.


    Mikmik, upon returning, immediately darted into the bathhouse, just as he always did.


    Ilinaya''s condition wasn¡¯t promising. Given that she still owed her a debt, Athena considered bringing her inside to tend to her wounds. However, before she could act, Ilinaya touched the pendant around her neck, pulled out a pill-like object, and swallowed it.


    A bubble of water suddenly enveloped Ilinaya, cocooning her as she closed her eyes, allowing the water to soothe and heal her wounds.


    The two small creatures raced toward Athena, eager to leap into her arms, but she hastily stopped them. Given Paopao¡¯s current gigantic form, a full-body tackle could leave her with internal injuries.


    Paopao was carrying the grotesque fish monster¡ªa hideous creature beyond imagination. Its twisted, snarling face was enough to make one''s skin crawl, its body covered in knobby scales that glistened with a nauseating sheen. In the center of its head was a gaping hole, from which a green liquid continuously oozed.


    The foul green substance left eerie trails on the ground, emitting a noxious stench that filled the air with waves of nausea and dread.


    Athena couldn¡¯t help but wonder if these little creatures had eaten her out of house and home and were now resorting to this monstrosity.


    ¡°Do you plan to eat that?¡± she asked. Being plant-based creatures, perhaps they didn¡¯t mind consuming such things? Or perhaps she had simply never noticed.


    Mikmik shook his head, while Paopao nodded, attempting to drag her toward the bathhouse.


    It seemed the water bubble surrounding Ilinaya wasn¡¯t going to dissipate any time soon. When Athena tried to push it, she was surprised to find it moved easily, so she maneuvered it into a corner and left it there.


    Upon entering the bathhouse, she noticed her usual large water reservoir now housed a musical-note dolphin, its cramped quarters leaving it looking rather pitiable.


    When it spotted the fish monster that Paopao had brought, it let out an excited squeal.


    After a brief moment of sadness at seeing Ilinaya in the bubble, it quickly turned its attention back to the meal, devouring the fish monster in just two bites, despite its size.


    It was clear the dolphin wasn¡¯t full yet.


    This was no ordinary creature but a veritable ¡®gold-eater.¡¯ Mikmik, meanwhile, was frolicking in a smaller pool, clearly disdaining the blood-soaked water in the dolphin¡¯s reservoir.


    Athena made a mental note¡ªshe would have to demand compensation for food and lodging from Ilinaya.


    Once everything was in order, Athena left the bathhouse, surveying the courtyard. The unsettling stillness in the air was all too apparent.


    It was not the usual peaceful quiet, but an eerie silence. Walking to the edge of the courtyard, she gently touched the once-lively thorn vines, now still. She brushed her hand over their delicate flowers, but they remained unresponsive.


    Her previously calm mood grew unsettled once again. With a furrowed brow, she hurried to the vegetable garden, only to find that the once-thriving crops had all withered in her absence.


    Even her five plant sprites were curled up on the ground, encased in faint golden spheres of light, fast asleep, with none of their usual lively energy.


    Athena tried to lift them but quickly realized the golden spheres were highly unstable, forcing her to place them back in the soil, where the light became steady once more.


    Normally, Prince and Princess would have leaped three feet high upon seeing her, but now they merely sat listlessly by the door, guarding it with their heads drooping. Even after seeing her, they couldn¡¯t muster any excitement.


    Something was clearly wrong, though Athena couldn¡¯t yet determine what.


    The only ones unaffected seemed to be the three smallest creatures, the most unique and highest-level of them all. Even Witty and Paopao hadn¡¯t noticed anything amiss.


    Suddenly, she caught the scent of food coming from inside the house. Gripping her Black Abyss Axe tightly, she burst through the door with lightning speed, startling the person inside.


    It was Grey.


    Seeing this, Athena relaxed, though she still found it odd. Grey was never around the base during the day and usually roamed outside. Yet here she was, cooking lunch.


    The anomalies were becoming impossible to ignore.


    Grey, startled by Athena¡¯s sudden entrance, dropped her ladle into the pot but quickly fished it out.


    ¡°What''s going on?¡± Athena asked. If anyone could explain what had happened, it would be Grey. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 138: A Strange Tower Defense Mission

    Chapter 138: A Strange Tower Defense MissionGrey didn¡¯t immediately grasp what Athena was saying, so she instinctively asked, "What¡¯s happened? What¡¯s the matter?"


    Athena relayed everything she had just witnessed, still puzzled by the events that had unfolded. "What¡¯s going on? I have no idea what''s been happening lately."


    Although everything around them had taken a turn for the unusual, neither of them had been harmed. In an instant, it was as though the very life force had been drained from their surroundings, much like flowers wilting and withering away.


    After hearing Athena''s explanation, Grey became visibly excited, completely forgetting about the ladle that had fallen into the pot. Grabbing Athena by the arm, her face lit up with enthusiasm as though she¡¯d finally found someone to confide in.


    "While you were away, I suddenly started seeing something inexplicable!" she exclaimed. "There was this transparent object right in front of me, but no matter how hard I tried, I couldn¡¯t touch it! It was just like the system panels my father used to mention."


    "It displayed a task called ''Withering,'' and mentioned an area that would soon be open for exploration. However, it didn¡¯t specify the exact time." Grey shared everything she had firmly committed to memory, her expression growing serious as she looked directly at Athena.


    "As soon as that notification appeared, I realized something was wrong with the base. That¡¯s why I didn¡¯t go out today. I stayed back and helped gather supplies with Witty and Paopao. We collected a lot of food, and we¡¯d only just returned when you arrived."


    Athena also noticed a troubling detail: when she wasn¡¯t in the base, she didn¡¯t receive notifications about tower defense missions. It reminded her of the regional battle¡ªthose outsiders were unable to receive the mission given to players.


    While the beings within the base of the player could receive these notifications, they were limited to seeing only the mission details due to the lack of a system panel.


    After Grey finished recounting everything, Athena received the mission. Apparently, it could be retroactively accepted, as long as one knew the general task.


    As she pondered over this, Grey fished her ladle out of the pot, yelping as it burned her hand, yet she dutifully continued cooking, undeterred by the mishap.


    [Warning: The current Tower Defense mission has been updated!]


    [The updated content is as follows]


    [Withering]


    Mission: Survive


    Mission Reward: None


    Mission Penalty: None


    Introduction: A previously unseen anomaly has occurred in the battle zone. Plants will wither and will not regrow for the foreseeable future. The area has now been opened to players, and you must do whatever it takes to survive. This anomaly doesn¡¯t just affect plant life. Explore at your own discretion. The system will offer the maximum possible protection to ensure your safety.


    Mission Duration: UnpredictableMission Start Time: Unpredictable


    [Regional Chat Channel is being updated and is temporarily closed. It will reopen in approximately two hours!]


    Faced with the new mission, Athena could only sigh¡ªopening the screen felt like getting hit with an instant critical strike. Although she already knew that the system wasn¡¯t actively trying to create chaos but was itself struggling to predict the incoming changes, the rapid developments left her unprepared.


    The plants in the battle zone would wither, with no chance of regrowth, and that was just one aspect of the anomaly. The duration was unknown, and so was the starting time.


    Nothing is more terrifying than the unknown.


    The first to lose control weren¡¯t the players, but the creatures around them. Even the defensive barriers that the system usually used to protect and restrict them were now in a half-activated state. They could come and go freely, but high-level monsters were still prevented from entering.


    Ignoring the bloodstains on her body, Athena sank into the soft, comfortable sofa. Not only had the regional chat been temporarily disabled, but even her friend communication function was cut off, leaving her with no access to outside information.


    [Current return summary completed]


    [Monster Defeat Mission Progress: 67%]


    Mission Rewards: Black Iron Armor Set (3 pieces), 2000 experience pointsSpecial Reward: Evolution


    The White Grand Empire Athena had recently entered was just an ordinary part of the White Lands. There were countless empires in this desolate place¡ªsome stronger, some weaker.


    Though the system had matched her randomly, Athena remained suspicious. Too many things had happened as soon as she arrived¡ªstarting with an attack by monsters, which led to the appearance of world energy. She couldn¡¯t help but suspect that the system had deliberately placed her there.


    Her last explosive orb managed to increase her mission progress by 5%, bringing her total to 67%. While her experience points remained untouched, her original three-piece Black Iron Armor Set had been reduced to only two pieces.


    She took out the black gold staff she had acquired from Babron. The staff was weighty¡ªheavier than an ordinary rod¡ªwith a glossy surface that felt comfortable to hold.


    In addition to these spoils, she had brought back all sorts of odd trinkets that Mikmik had casually looted.


    Only after returning did these items officially become Athena¡¯s property. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Staff]


    Quality: RareCategory: Mental Attack Weapon


    Description: When you wield this staff, your aura will shift, marking you as a person of considerable authority. Your words will seem more credible, and your actions will appear more reasonable and convincing.


    [Silk Scarf]


    Quality: CommonCategory: Handkerchief


    Description: Nothing special¡ªjust a beautifully designed scarf that feels soft to the touch.


    [Crimson Tear]


    Quality: UniqueCategory: Offensive Gem


    Description: Embed this gem into your weapon to randomly grant it an ability.


    [Golden Water Ring]


    Quality: RareCategory: Storage


    Description: More than just a symbol of status, this ring offers five square metres of storage and possesses water-like properties. It can take the form of a ring, bracelet, or any accessory you wish.


    [Emerald]


    Quality: CommonCategory: Gem


    Description: A standard gem, but of good enough quality that you might find it appealing.


    Mikmik¡¯s habit of collecting anything and everything had unexpectedly yielded some decent finds. As for the handkerchief, Athena simply chalked it up to his quirky taste.


    In addition to these items, she also received two cards¡ªone of a Ratman and the other a half-grey card from the White Lands.


    [Ratman]


    Level: 10Attack: 10Defense: 11Skills: Summon Rat Horde, Nurture Rat Horde


    Description: You might consider him just an ordinary creature, but given enough time and space to grow, you¡¯ll find he can become a terrifying force, capable of bringing utter devastation.


    Athena had already experienced the Ratman¡¯s abilities first-hand, so she didn¡¯t bother examining the card further.


    "Level 10 huh..."


    By this time, Mikmik and the others had returned. Grey¡¯s meal was ready, and she called them over to eat before they had to head back out for more work.


    They discussed whether they could still catch rabbits or other small creatures today. As for plants, most of the vegetation here contained toxins. While the local animals had developed special digestive systems to handle them, Athena and her group had no such immunity.


    Athena ate in silence, occasionally glancing at the pile of food they had managed to gather in the corner of the living room.

 Chapter 139: The New Weapon

    Chapter 139: The New WeaponDue to the consistent operation of the water pump, there was no need for her to worry about her water supply. Next came food; having always maintained a stockpile, she had also taken to growing her own fruits and vegetables.


    The three little ones enjoyed wandering into the forest from time to time, occasionally foraging for wild delicacies. Upon inspection, she realized that her food reserves were quite abundant; as long as they exercised some self-restraint, they wouldn¡¯t need to fret about food for the foreseeable future.


    In fact, when all was accounted for, this bout of decay had surprisingly little impact on them. Athena could easily remain cocooned in her sanctuary until it all blew over.


    During this period, her sole concern would be keeping an eye on the monsters attacking the shelter.


    The gradual decay of all plant life was undoubtedly due to some underlying cause¡ªperhaps the most significant threat of all¡ªand those monsters were not to be underestimated.


    Some players still relied on the white parcels to reorganize their supplies, yet the system had a troublesome habit of halting this functionality at critical moments. Players without rations were forced to venture out in search of food.


    This would inevitably lead to competition with the monsters. Without plants to sustain them, those creatures would soon find themselves in dire straits. As time wore on, the competition between monsters and players would intensify.


    Many monsters would likely go mad.


    Unbeknownst to her, Athena had polished off the last of her rice. Unfortunately for her, it was now her turn to wash the dishes.


    The three little ones, along with Grey, couldn¡¯t help but snicker, though they kept their laughter discreet.


    As the saying goes, "A bet is a bet." Athena offered no objections. She promptly rose, collecting the bowls and utensils from the table. Balancing the stack carefully, she made her way to the washroom and gently placed them in the small sink, preparing to start her cleaning duties. While the sink was compact, it was just about large enough for her dishes.


    Meanwhile, the three little ones had already scurried past her, eager to set out on their hunt.


    Perhaps because of the peculiar plants she had grown, they seemed to possess unique attributes or sensitivities, making them the first victims of the decay¡¯s initial phase.


    In contrast, the vast, verdant forest outside remained untouched, as if completely unaffected¡ªif it weren¡¯t for the fact that even the thorny vines had begun to wither. Were it not for this, Athena might not have noticed that decay had already set in.


    The greatest pity was that even the plant spirits had felt the effects, forcing her to abandon any thoughts of relying on her garden.


    Once she had tidied everything up, she returned to her room. Looking at the day¡¯s haul, she considered the Golden Water Ring, the most useful item at present, though it left her feeling somewhat torn.


    With her latest transfer, she was now able to carry two additional familiars, allowing her to select two out of the three little ones to accompany her.


    Of course, Mikmik was a given, while Paopao and Witty were still uncertain choices.


    From the outset, Athena had envisioned Witty as a dual-purpose entity: one that could transport goods while also serving as a capable attacker. To that end, she had outfitted it with a miniature turret.


    However, she soon discovered that carrying it was quite cumbersome. Once Witty equipped the turret, while it could indeed attack, it could no longer perform its transport function.


    Thus, the Golden Water Ring could prove invaluable for Witty, allowing it to stow the turret directly within the ring, alongside other items.


    Should the situation require it, she could simply summon the turret and unleash its firepower, while Witty maintained the appearance of an innocuous little rabbit.


    This was crucial; Mikmik¡¯s shadow manipulation was both powerful and handy, often enabling it to pilfer various items. The Golden Water Ring would be tremendously useful for it, especially since Mikmik had been the one to bring the ring back initially.


    Bestowing the ring upon anyone wouldn¡¯t be a loss; perhaps she¡¯d wait for the three little ones to return before letting them decide.


    Next on her agenda was the gear she had acquired.


    [Black Iron Ring]


    Rarity: Rare


    Category: Ring sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Description: An ordinary black ring that may even appear somewhat cheap. But do not underestimate it; when worn, your defence increases by 2.


    [Black Iron Bracelet]


    Rarity: Rare


    Category: Bracelet


    Description: An ordinary bracelet, exceedingly inexpensive, yet upon wearing it, your defence will also increase by 2.


    To her surprise, the system¡¯s Black Iron set emphasised defensive capabilities. In truth, equipping both would yield a significant boost to her defensive stats, yet she had always preferred attack-oriented gear.


    As she adorned herself with both items, she couldn¡¯t help but marvel at how she had amassed such an array of accessories: earrings, necklaces, rings, and bracelets.


    If she were to acquire more items of this nature, she might soon find every finger adorned, evoking a sense of burgeoning wealth. The key was that each piece had its own unique characteristics, completely distinct from one another.


    Just as she finished putting them on, the system displayed yet another panel for the Black Iron set.


    [Black Iron Set]


    Rarity: Unique


    Category: Wearable Item


    Attributes: Equip two to trigger set bonuses; Strength +2; each additional item increases aura by 10%.


    Description: The Black Iron set comprises five components: two bracelets, two rings, and one necklace.


    How impressive! The set even offered individual bonuses. Regrettably, Athena could only trigger the +2 Strength bonus at present.


    She felt no regret, though. While achieving a score of 90 or above on this task would reward her with the entire set, acquiring all the components was out of reach¡ªespecially considering their so-called ¡®prince¡¯ and the formidable Babron.


    Previously, she had obtained three packages. Deciding against keeping them, she resolved to open them all at once.


    Regardless of the outcome, she was confident in her ability to handle whatever awaited her. Besides, there was no one around to witness her actions.


    Eyeing the three silver parcels on the ground, she steeled herself and reached for the first.


    [Special Event Card 1]


    Rarity: Unique


    Category: Quest


    Description: A magical card that unlocks the potential for greater resources. Activate it to trigger a random special event, tailored to your current situation and environment.


    As she opened this peculiar item, a frown creased Athena¡¯s brow. ¡°What on earth? This too?¡±


    Without hesitation, she reached for the second parcel, determined to continue.


    Then she quickly tore open the third.


    [Firearms Skill Scroll: Mastery]


    Rarity: Rare


    Category: Scroll


    Description: Open it without hesitation; your understanding and proficiency with firearms will be elevated to mastery level.


    [Black Friday]


    Rarity: Unique


    Category: Sniper Rifle


    Attributes: Penetration 10; Range 500m; Critical hit chance 80%; Headshot chance 30%; Shatter effect 20%.


    Description: Times have changed; strike with precision from seven steps away, and with speed and accuracy from closer range. This weapon must be used in a concealed position, with a distance of over 500m.

 Chapter 140: Upgrades!

    Chapter 140: Upgrades!The attributes of Black Friday were simply perfect. Once Athena mastered firearms, she would wield Black Friday with remarkable skill.


    The most powerful feature of Black Friday was its ability to correct for enemy movements. Even if a foe, be they human or otherwise, attempted to dodge the bullets, Black Friday boasted an 80% chance of striking a vital area and a 30% chance of hitting the head.


    In comparison to Athena''s bow and arrows, Black Friday offered additional armor-piercing and crushing capabilities. However, it came with restrictions on usage; it was ineffective at short range and significantly less agile, making it a complementary tool.


    With the unpacking event concluded perfectly, Athena breathed a sigh of relief, thoroughly satisfied with the outcome.


    She immediately tore open the mechanical scroll.


    [Congratulations! You have reached Mastery Level in Mechanics!]


    Athena realized that the special rewards provided by the system seemed tailored to her. So far, of the two special rewards she had received, one enhanced the stealth capabilities for Mikmik, while this latest evolution reward was related to her Grass Ball creatures.


    Special Evolution Reward S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Evolution]


    Item: Grass Ball Creature


    Description: You may choose any one Grass Ball creature to use. Upon use, that creature will transform into a true living being, no longer categorized as a Grass Ball creature.


    This evolution, a leap in life tier, would bring about unforeseen changes, but rest assured, they would all be for the better.


    When she first met the trio, after their loyalty exceeded 80%, they had gained flesh and blood¡ªmerely a superficial transformation that made them resemble true beings. Yet, they had always remained grassball creatures. Now, however, they possessed an opportunity for genuine evolution, and this evolution would only yield positive outcomes.


    For her first Grass Ball skill, Athena had chosen Mikmik. With this second evolution opportunity, she opted for that little cat once more; it was the best choice. Mikmik'' abilities destined it to be her greatest ally.


    However, if similar opportunities arose in the future, she might lean towards the other two creatures. But for now, her priority was clear¡ªshe would choose Mikmik.


    Although she doubted that the Witty and Paopao would hold any resentment against her, she decided it was best to explain her choice to them when they returned.


    Next, she opened her attributes panel. After a period of contemplation, she was ready to make significant upgrades to her skills and attributes¡ªupgrades she felt confident in.


    With the 50 experience points she had remaining, the 500 points she had earned thereafter, and the 2,000 points from the recent encounters, her total experience points had soared to an unprecedented 2,600.


    With fervor, she began to allocate her points on the system panel.


    Name: Athena


    Experience Points: 20


    Title: Proactive Warrior


    Race: Human


    Gender: Female


    Attributes:


    Strength: 7313 (Up)


    Speed: 731 (Up)


    Agility: 7614 (Up)


    Mental Power: 8413 (Up)


    Skills:


    Attachment LV10 (Up by 5): Applies strength to weapons, dealing an extra 10 damage per point of attribute; low chance to trigger critical injury; very low chance to trigger a fatal state!Hunter LV10 (Up by 4): Enhances leg speed, increasing burst speed by 50; cooldown time of 20 minutes for each use.Boneless LV10 (Up by 5): Greatly enhances body flexibility, allowing for extremely difficult maneuvers and subtle facial adjustments.Tranquility LV10 (Up by 5): Instantly regains composure at any moment, resisting various mental negative effects during battle; outside combat, efficiency increases by 45; cooldown of 2 hours, lasting 2 hours.War Queen: Cannot be upgraded; if allies exceed 3, they gain 10 mental power and a courage buff. If soldiers exceed 500, they become immune to 50% of mental attacks, receiving both courage and strength buffs.


    Leveling Tranquility costs 100 experience points, totaling 500 for all levels. Leveling Attachment to the next rank requires 120 experience points, totaling 480. Hunter costs a staggering 150 per level, totaling 600, while Boneless requires 100, summing to 500.


    Thanks to her thorough preparations and rest, this upgrade didn¡¯t bring her excessive pain, yet it nearly drained her reserves.


    The most unexpected outcome was with the Boneless skill; shockingly, it showed no change even after five levels.


    This truly disheartened her, not because she was reluctant to upgrade other skills, but because she realized that once skills reached level ten, there were no further prompts for upgrades.


    Other skills had undergone minor transformations, significantly shortening cooldowns and greatly enhancing their effects. Even the smallest change could turn the tide in battle, and for that, she felt a sense of satisfaction.


    However, the lack of progression for Boneless remained a source of frustration. She couldn¡¯t help but notice that every skill appeared to have its own barriers, much like her attributes.


    [Skill Barrier Reached!]


    [Please break through Skill Level 10 as soon as possible!]


    [Upon breaking through, skills will undergo a comprehensive transformation! They will be greatly enhanced! Please hurry!]


    As always, the system merely urged her to breakthrough but never provided guidance on how to do so.


    She found herself eager to see what would happen after the breakthrough, much like her attribute points; once she shattered those barriers, each point would hold far more value than before. This was a rough calculation, but one point post-breakthrough would equate to what previously required five points.


    Additionally, she still needed help with a special item she had acquired, as none of her weapons had slots for embedding it. This would require Grey¡¯s expertise for adjustment.


    Grey had a habit of napping after lunch, making it unwise to disturb her just yet. Thus, Athena resolved to check on Ilinaya.


    Initially, she had assumed Ilinaya would remain stationary in her bubble for quite some time. However, while washing the dishes, she had noticed that the previously motionless Ilinaya was now moving about within the water sphere. It wouldn¡¯t be long before she fully recovered and could emerge.


    Athena''s belongings were still being held by Ilinaya, and her primary objective for visiting the White Lands was to gather the World¡¯s Energy, eager to discover what it truly entailed.


    As she approached the bathroom door, just before she could push it open, a faint sound reached her ears¡ªsomething seemed to be breaking in the water. Her brow furrowed slightly, and just then, a splash echoed through the room, as if the entire space had been submerged.

 Chapter 141: The Arrival Of An Unmeasurable Entity So Powerful

    Chapter 141: The Arrival Of An Unmeasurable Entity So PowerfulAs Athena stepped inside, she immediately noticed that the bubble encasing Ilinaya had burst, water splattering everywhere and leaving the floor damp beneath her feet.


    Ilinaya stood there, dazed, her eyes slightly unfocused. Just as she was about to embrace her beloved musical dolphin, Athena pushed the door open and entered.


    The moment Athena spotted Ilinaya, a complex array of emotions crossed her face. For a fleeting moment, she had thought she might need to go to extremes to ensure they both perished together.


    But fate had other plans; Athena had returned in a state that left her feeling half-dead, though she couldn''t place the blame on the mermaid. After all, it was that accursed black-robed figure who had ensnared them.


    Meanwhile, Ilinaya remained perplexed. What possible benefit could destroying their chances bring? Or had the figure already met an untimely end in some unknown corner of the world?


    Her mental turmoil didn''t last long.


    Athena was succinct, extending her right hand toward Ilinaya¡ªa patient who had just regained her senses.


    ¡°According to our contract, I require the world''s energy you owe me,¡± she stated, casting a sidelong glance at the musical dolphin. ¡°Also, I need to settle the expenses for your pet''s meals and accommodations.¡±


    Those expenses would certainly need to be reclaimed. Although the dolphin feasted on peculiar fish that they themselves could not consume, it had a particularly hefty appetite. The bear, known as Paopao, had even grumbled to her about this very issue.


    At her words, Ilinaya''s expression remained unyielding; thoughts were solely on returning to Ilinaya''s domain. Despite having obtained what desired from this excursion, Ilinaya felt utterly drained, in need of recuperation rather than engaging in further battles of wits with Athena.


    However, upon hearing the latter part of Athena''s statement, Ilinaya felt a flicker of indignation. Reflecting on the dolphin''s daily food consumption, she silently bit her tongue.


    With a slender, pale hand, Ilinaya touched the pendant at her chest. The vial containing the world¡¯s energy materialized in her palm, which she promptly offered to Athena.


    ¡°Here you go.¡±


    Almost immediately, she reached out again, producing another object¡ªa shell.


    ¡°For the meals and accommodations,¡± she stated, her voice flat and devoid of emotion, though the strain in her hand was evident, blue veins tracing the surface.


    Athena, however, remained unperturbed as she took the items from Ilinaya''s grasp.


    [Congratulations! You have obtained a portion of the World¡¯s Energy!]


    [Player Athena holds a special item; Reputation increased by 100!] S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Do you wish to sell the World¡¯s Energy to the system?]


    [World¡¯s Energy]


    Sale Price: 1000 Silver Coins


    Special Acquisition Level Upgrade Permission Granted. First Submission Reputation increased by 200. First Submission of the Golden Package.


    Description: The original power sustaining the world, transformed into World¡¯s Energy through special means, has been utilized by both darkness and daylight to create different energy forms, safeguarding the realms of light and dark, as well as their sanctuaries.


    The moment Athena made contact with it, a cascade of notifications flooded in, urging her to sell the item to the system without delay.


    After handing over the items, Ilinaya''s expression soured.


    ¡°Dissolve the team,¡± she ordered.


    Gently, she stroked her musical dolphin, which nuzzled affectionately against her palm.


    Ilinaya wished to leave quickly, and Athena had no desire to keep her; as the team leader, the responsibility fell to her to dissolve their partnership.


    Without hesitation, she initiated the disbanding process.


    [Team Disbanded!]


    Finally, Ilinaya let out a long sigh of relief, her eyes closing as she breathed in the surrounding air. When she opened them, a subtle look flitted across her face as she regarded Athena.


    ¡°Good luck,¡± she said, her words laced with a hint of mischief.


    As she finished speaking, a teleportation circle materialized behind her, pulling both her and the musical dolphin into its shimmering embrace, and they vanished from sight.


    That girl undoubtedly sensed the disturbance in the battlefield; her parting words were tinged with a sense of malicious joy.


    Once she had gone, Athena promptly chose to sell the World¡¯s Energy to the system.


    [Yes]


    [Sale Successful!]


    [Permission Level Upgraded! Please check your system panel to explore your new permissions!]


    [Reputation Points Granted!]


    [Golden Package Granted!]


    Just as Athena prepared to examine the items, an unsettling noise echoed from outside the door.


    "%$^**U*@U!!!"


    Instantly, her senses heightened; that sound was definitely not from the trio or the bear.


    The noise grew closer, a formidable pressure accompanying each approaching step. At last, it arrived at the door, pounding against it with a relentless fury, the thundering knocks resounding like heavy hammers, causing the very room to tremble.


    "BAAAMBB!!"


    Each impact reverberated through Athena, leaving her feeling as if her insides were being compressed with each strike.


    Athena gripped her black abyss axe tightly, trying to shift her body, but suddenly she felt an enigmatic force pin her in place, rendering her immobile.


    Athena''s body turned rigid, ensnared as if by invisible shackles.


    In that moment, silence enveloped the room, save for the incessant pounding at the door. Her breaths came faster¡ªnot from fear, but because with each echoing knock, it felt as if her organs were being squeezed tighter.


    The knocking intensified, imbued with urgency and a warning tone.


    Though daylight still bathed the area, an ominous presence was clearly attempting to breach her home.


    [ Calm Yourself! ]


    [ Judgment Successful! ]


    In an instant, Athena regained the ability to move, paradoxically finding clarity amidst the chaos.


    The creature outside clearly could not enter, yet it possessed an overwhelming psychic ability, allowing it to approach even in daylight, its power seemingly formidable.


    Phantom


    Level?


    Strength?


    Defense?


    Skills? Psychic Suppression, Phantom, ???, ???, ???¡­


    Psychic Suppression could immobilize opponents through a medium, with control duration determined by the disparity in strength.


    Phantom could shift into a state of invisibility, undetectable and unobservable, free to traverse anywhere.


    Warning: The unthinking, special creatures wander the battlefield, yearning for pure World¡¯s Energy. Please do not provoke them; they will depart on their own.


    The phantom creature was beyond Athena''s capacity to defeat at this time. The red color of the text and barrage of question marks starkly highlighted their disparity, but the purple text reassured her slightly. Still, she maintained a firm grip on her black axe, eyes locked on the door.

 Chapter 142: Mikmik’s Secret Stash

    Chapter 142: Mikmik¡¯s Secret StashAthena breathed a deep sigh of relief. It was fortunate the three little ones had already gone out, and Grey was still napping in the room, unaware of the outside events.


    As the minutes ticked by, the persistent tapping finally ceased.


    [ The abnormal creature has left! ]


    At last, Athena dared to open the bathroom door. The moment the world''s energy appeared in the area, it had almost instantly attracted this peculiar entity.


    Right now, her desire for a defensive barrier was at an all-time high. The system¡¯s protective shield, however, only functioned optimally at night. During the day, while it could fend off some creatures, it didn¡¯t offer protection against the system-refreshed monsters or these special entities. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The giant bee shield that Athena had acquired some time ago still remained unused. Its duration was only three days, so she had been saving it for a crisis¡ªparticularly for when she faced swarming attacks.


    But now, it seemed she should deploy the shield. The appearance of the phantom wasn''t solely due to the world''s energy but also because of the evolving dynamics of the battle zone, making it more sensitive and volatile.


    Even though the giant bee shield might not fully fend off more powerful monsters, at least it would give Athena some forewarning, rather than leaving her completely unguarded.


    With a fleeting thought, a radiant golden orb materialised in her palm. Upon closer inspection, one could faintly see the outline of a giant bee within the orb.


    She threw the mysterious golden sphere high into the air. Instantly, a thin yet awe-inspiring golden barrier unfurled like lightning, swiftly enveloping the entire shelter.


    Simultaneously, a countdown appeared on Athena''s system panel, marking three days of protection.


    The noise stirred Grey, who could no longer sleep. She peered through the door crack to assess the situation. Seeing everything was in order, she finally emerged.


    Looking up at the pale golden shield before her, Grey was utterly fascinated. Apart from the initial burst of strong golden light when it first activated, the shield now emitted a faint, steady glow.


    It was an impenetrable barrier, capable of withstanding any external threat or attack.


    Seeing Grey, Athena promptly took out her three weapons¡ªthe Moonlight Bow, the Black Abyss Axe, and Black Friday paired with the Crimson Tear¡ªand handed them over.


    "Could you help me figure out how best to install them and assist with the installation?" Athena asked sincerely and warmly.


    Grey, clutching all the weapons to her chest, nodded eagerly. It was clear this was a testament to Athena''s trust in her!


    At that moment, the three little ones returned. Sensing the gravity of the situation, they didn¡¯t goof off as usual but scoured the surroundings thoroughly, bringing back a wild rabbit and a large boar, which Witty dutifully carried home.


    Paopao, having used his gigantification ability in the last battle, couldn¡¯t transform again and thus couldn''t handle such hefty loads.


    They held their heads high like triumphant generals, already anticipating Athena¡¯s praise and admiration.


    Yet, as soon as they approached their home, the sudden sight of the protective shield stunned them. They recognized that this was different from the system¡¯s usual protective barrier; it was another type entirely.


    When Athena allowed them inside, the three were still somewhat bewildered.


    As soon as they entered, Athena erected an earthen wall at the entrance of the shelter to reinforce its weakest point.


    With her increasing mental strength, she could now maintain an earthen wall for about an hour. If she only sustained a single wall, she could extend that time to five or six hours, which also provided a small mental exercise.


    As they had expected, Athena lavished them with praise, sending them into a blissful state of pride.


    Athena, as usual, chose to decompose the meat using the system¡ªnot because she wished to be frugal, but because the system-preserved meat could last up to six months without spoiling.


    If she processed the meat herself, it would likely rot within a few days. While her system backpack could slow down spoilage, it wouldn¡¯t stop it entirely.


    Thus, system decomposition remained the most practical option.


    After returning indoors, Athena sat the three little ones down and solemnly explained the process of evolution and the significance of the Golden Water Ring.


    The trio exchanged glances, each clearly understanding Athena''s decision. They all agreed to give the opportunity for evolution to Mikmik. However, when Athena placed the Golden Water Ring before them, asking them to decide, a dilemma arose.


    Paopao immediately declared he wouldn¡¯t get involved, nonchalantly grabbing an apple and munching away. Witty and Mikmik, on the other hand, began pushing the Golden Water Ring back and forth between them, neither willing to take it.


    Finally, Mikmik, unable to contain his frustration, exploded! His fur stood on end, resembling a small, angry lion, baring its teeth and pouncing on Witty.


    With one swift motion, Mikmik slapped Witty¡¯s head with his paw and snarled ferociously as if to say, "Put it on already!" His demeanour was so fierce it was as though he intended to devour Witty whole.


    Witty, stubborn as ever, still refused to relent, insisting Mikmik wear the ring instead.


    In the end, Mikmik shot a guilty glance at Athena before pulling Witty aside to whisper something in his ear. Witty''s expression turned to one of surprise, but eventually, he quietly agreed and slipped the Golden Water Ring onto his paw.


    As soon as the Golden Water Ring touched his soft, fluffy paw, it transformed into a bracelet perfectly sized for his foreleg.


    Witty was fascinated by the transformation, examining it from all angles. He even ran over to Mikmik and Paopao to show them up close.


    Athena had no idea what the two had whispered about, but since they had finally sorted it out, she was relieved.


    Mikmik, seeing that Athena hadn¡¯t noticed their little exchange, also breathed a sigh of relief. After all, he had his own secret stash.


    Every time he accompanied Athena on outings, whenever they came across something beautiful or of high value that suited her refined tastes, Mikmik would discreetly swallow it. Later, he would cough it back up and hide it under her bed. If Athena ever checked, she''d discover his collection.


    To Mikmik, the Golden Water Ring was ugly and gaudy, so he had no qualms handing it over to Witty. It suited him much better.


    As for their leader? Well, one day, if she ever ran out of resources, Mikmik figured his little treasure trove might just come in handy for supporting the four of them. He needed to stash away more!


    Athena scooped Mikmik into her arms and initiated the evolution process.

 Chapter 143: World Chat Feature

    Chapter 143: World Chat FeatureThe illusion cast by the system gradually faded away, revealing the true form of Mikmik. His body, once woven from special grasses, was now exposed, with a faint green glow emanating from within him.


    The gentle green light radiated with vibrant life energy, glowing brilliantly. From within Mikmik''s form, flesh and blood began to rapidly grow, replacing the original strands of grass.


    From the inside out, his body underwent a remarkable transformation. The green light gathered into a single point, slowly forming a heart. Its rhythm, once imperceptible, grew stronger and more powerful with each beat.


    As the heartbeat reverberated, the green light continued to weave through Mikmik''s body, growing new flesh and fur. His appearance remained largely unchanged from before.


    When the glow finally receded, he landed gently on the ground.


    His fur, now as black as obsidian, shimmered with a dark lustre. It appeared as smooth as silk, soft and sleek. His emerald eyes, like precious jewels, sparkled with an enchanting brilliance.


    The entire cat exuded an indescribable sense of elegance and mystery. If before he was merely an ordinary black cat, now, with just a glance, he emanated an unattainable aura of nobility.


    [Grassy Creature¡ªCat, Evolution Complete!]


    [Shadow Panther]


    Level 8


    Strength: 11


    Defence: 8


    Skills:


    Shadow Shift


    [Shadow Shift, Advanced]


    A unique skill of the Shadow Panther.


    Grade: Excellent


    Description: A stealthy prowler of the night, capable of blending into shadows even in broad daylight. Stealth value: 35.


    [Would you like to draw an evolutionary skill?]


    "Yes."


    [Drawing...]


    [Success! Please choose one of the Shadow Panther¡¯s skills.]


    Mesmerize (Grade: Refined)


    Night Prowler (Grade: Excellent)


    Claw Strike (Grade: Common)


    [You have selected Night Prowler!]


    [Night Prowler]


    A unique skill of the Shadow Panther.


    Grade: Excellent


    Description: Allows for swift movement in darkness. Speed: 10. Agility: 10. Stealth value: 5.


    At this point, Mikmik had evolved far beyond Athena¡¯s expectations. With his current abilities, was there anywhere he couldn¡¯t go?


    Among the enemies they were likely to face, there wasn¡¯t a single one who could detect Mikmik before, and now it had become utterly impossible.


    Mikmik let out a gleeful purr but quickly composed himself, elegantly flicking his tail. Despite his best efforts to maintain a composed exterior, he couldn¡¯t help the instinct to puff it out in excitement.


    Athena, gazing down at the now exquisite creature, placed her hand atop his head, playfully ruffling his once sleek fur. Watching Mikmik¡¯s frantic attempt to smooth it back down, she chuckled softly.


    [Regional Chat is now available!]


    Athena hadn¡¯t noticed that the regional chat had been restored. Upon opening it, she found the familiar interface, unchanged from before.


    The number of survivors remained pitifully low, yet in these later stages, the daily fluctuation of deaths had become minimal. By now, most had learned how to survive.


    ¡°Good heavens! Just a few hours, and I already felt like I¡¯d been locked away in a dark room! Without the regional chat, without you lot to keep me entertained, I was on the verge of losing it!¡±


    ¡°For the first time, I realize how much I need you all. Normally, I find you lot infuriating, but now? Now I¡¯m grateful for the company.¡±


    ¡°Here we go again... Decay? If this keeps up, we players are going to decay before the corpses do!¡±


    ¡°At last, it¡¯s back! Could the system at least give us a bit of warning next time? I nearly had a heart attack!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that writing in the top right corner? Did the system scribble it out? I can barely make it out.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thank goodness! I thought this would take days. The system''s never been one for reliability, though.¡±


    Amidst the continuous stream of comments, Athena quickly caught onto something¡ªright, the writing in the top corner?


    She stared intently at her system interface, scanning the upper right corner repeatedly, yet no such writing appeared. She couldn''t help but feel she¡¯d been pranked from behind the screen.


    ¡°So what exactly did the system improve?¡±


    ¡°Honestly? Nothing. I¡¯m done. Completely done.¡±


    [World Chat is now open!]


    ¡°Wait a moment... Did a system sneak in amongst us? A living, breathing system?¡±


    ¡°Oh my god, it¡¯s real. It¡¯s actually real¡ªlook, up there!¡±


    Watching the comments flow rapidly, Athena noticed the glaringly obvious system announcement. So, that was the improvement. Alongside the regional chat, a new button appeared¡ªa world chat channel.


    The button, once translucent, solidified¡ªWorld Chat Channel.


    [World Chat Channel]


    003: ¡°Anyone here?¡± S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    007: ¡°Anyone?¡±


    ¡°Person.¡±


    081: ¡°Person.¡±


    ¡­


    The newly introduced feature had everyone treading carefully, leading to a flood of repetitive messages.


    Athena, not wanting to be left out, sent her own comment.


    [Would you like to reveal your region?]


    [Yes.]


    004: ¡°.¡±


    That single full stop¡ªhers. Players could choose to reveal their region number or post anonymously. If they chose to reveal, the number would appear alongside the comment. If not, only the comment itself would display.


    Because it was now a world chat, the volume of comments far exceeded the norm. The screen scrolled at dizzying speeds, making it hard to follow unless manually paused.


    Athena intended to observe the chat further when an unsettling sound from outside the shelter caught her attention.


    ''I hate this...''


    Despite the protective barrier, the fierce winds battering against it created a cacophony of rattles and clangs.


    The intense wind also stirred the air, creating gusts that resembled eerie howls¡ªghostly wails that sent shivers down one¡¯s spine.


    Through the window, she glanced outside¡ªclear blue skies, and sunshine as bright as ever.


    Even Mikmik, who had been circling the room excitedly, was distracted by the strange sounds outside. Together, they decided to investigate.


    Athena opened the door and stepped onto the porch.


    The scene outside was nothing short of apocalyptic. The once serene sky, now devoid of clouds, seemed to glow unnaturally. The sun burned a deep crimson, like fresh blood, with temperatures continuing to rise.


    The gale-force winds, though lacking any ominous darkness, were ferocious. They swept away leaves that would usually remain undisturbed. Every leaf, every tree, was stripped bare with ease.


    The wind spiralled into small tornadoes, formed entirely of leaves, wreaking havoc as they whipped through the landscape. The ground itself cracked open, forming fissures from which plumes of yellow dust spewed forth.


    The trees, their moisture seemingly stolen by the wind, withered and shrivelled. What remained were brittle, lifeless husks. The vegetation beneath fared even worse, as if centuries had passed in the blink of an eye¡ªdried up, decayed, gone.

 Chapter 144: Requirements Is So Hard

    Chapter 144: Requirements Is So Hard[ The spawn points will no longer randomly refresh the packages and are now entering a state of preparedness. ]


    [ Due to irresistible circumstances, this system will no longer randomly refresh monsters; however, the number of monsters will not decrease. Players are urged to prepare for defensive measures! ]


    [ Due to unavoidable factors, the shelter will activate its barriers during daylight! ]


    [ In light of these factors, the game¡¯s difficulty has significantly increased! Subsidies are being issued; players should check their emails for details! ]


    [ Detected In Player ''Big Dream'', you already possess a shield; this shield will merge with the system shield upon its dissipation, granting you a new shield as compensation! ]


    Athena maintained her stance at the door, gazing at everything outside, even as her three small companions could only stare vacantly into the expanse beyond.


    As the door swung open, the trio plopped onto the ground in utter disbelief.


    The changes of the past had always arrived with darkness, but no one had anticipated that this time, they would descend so swiftly, and in broad daylight, no less.


    The sky had transformed into a searing purgatory, while the earth lay barren like a ghostly wasteland.


    A swirling tempest of snow and an endless sea had besieged them¡ªelements of nature that, regardless of how tumultuous, once birthed vibrant life. Yet, even amidst their fury, one could still glimpse the exuberance of existence, or perhaps, their arrival heralded vitality yet untapped.


    Now, however, the scene was undeniably inhuman; whether it was merely Athena¡¯s perception, she could even feel the mournful cries of the creatures around her.


    This aberration was the first of its kind to engulf the entire battlefield; previous anomalies had only targeted specific regions within combat zones.


    [World Chat Channel]


    091: ¡°It¡¯s over; the world is finished.¡±


    053: ¡°So spectacular, I almost wish for death!¡±


    073: ¡°This scene is like the previous ones¡ªsurely it¡¯ll dissipate in a day or two?¡±


    009: ¡°Not necessarily; this time feels different.¡±


    038: ¡°If we can explore outside, does that mean we can locate one another?¡±


    ¡­


    The atmosphere in the world chat was hardly cheerful, yet many maintained an optimistic outlook.


    What left people in despair was the grim knowledge that the anomaly had not yet peaked; this was merely the beginning of an uncertain catastrophe bearing down upon them.


    This time, they faced not the actively hostile monsters, but rather a calamity of their own making, with raging beasts surging from every direction, their origins a mystery.


    Having returned with a surge in her abilities, Athena found herself, despite her swiftness compared to most players, still outpaced by the gathering danger.


    Choosing not to linger and watch the world¡¯s transformation, she stepped back inside.


    With the temperature rising steadily, she retrieved an item she had yet to employ since its purchase.


    [Cooling Wind Chime]


    The exquisite silver wind chime emitted a pleasant, melodious sound as she hung it up. The escalating heat began to recede slowly, soothed by the chime''s delicate tones.


    She activated her reputation system.


    [Reputation System]


    [World Stone]


    [Blueprint for a Level 5 Shelter ¨C Special Permissive Item!]


    Price: 500 Reputation Points


    Within the reputation system, two items appeared each round. The ancient tree branch from the previous round had already vanished, leaving only the immovable World Stone.


    To her delight, the Level 5 Shelter blueprint was among the offerings. This item was typically reserved for those who completed high-difficulty tasks or specific system missions, yet due to her enhanced system permissions, it had become available.


    Without hesitation, she opted to exchange for it.


    [ You have obtained the Level 5 Shelter blueprint! ]


    [ The shelter cannot be upgraded! ]


    [ To upgrade to Level 5 shelter: 500 special stones, 1,000 stone blocks, 100 wooden planks, and 100 corpses of Level 5 monsters or higher. ]


    With the upgrade of her shelter, the demand for grass had diminished significantly, and the requirement for wooden planks had decreased as well. Conversely, the need for the other materials had increased, including monster corpses.


    Following her previous upgrade to the Level 4 shelter, she had only 60 special stones remaining. Without a reliable means of obtaining more, she felt a wave of frustration wash over her.


    One hundred corpses of Level 5 monsters was a daunting requirement; unless she encountered a storm beast once more, she would need to face even more formidable creatures.


    In summary: it was tough, exceedingly so. But progress must be made! Accumulating materials would yield results in due course.


    In her hand floated a golden-yellow package, radiating a glow reminiscent of pure gold. Merely holding it brought forth a sensation of joy, not merely an illusion of her mind; the golden package possessed such an enchantment.


    [ Unpredictable! ]


    In prior instances, Athena had disabled the purple text display to stave off monotony. This time, however, when she attempted to use it, she discovered the golden package could not even be predicted through the purple text.


    As she turned it over in her hands, a familiar mirror materialised. If physics wouldn¡¯t suffice, she would turn to the metaphysical.


    With her heart aligned, she was on the verge of refining it into a tool for luck.


    Alas, this peculiar object had proven unreliable; perhaps her level was insufficient. After several more attempts, any inquiry of significance resulted in nonsensical answers, yet it remained infallibly accurate when used for divination.


    Ancient characters emerged:


    Athena had few redeeming traits, but one was her tendency to heed advice.


    Stowing away the assorted trinkets back into her pack, she cast a glance at her wealth.


    Silver Coins: 1,489


    The silver coins she had accrued, combined with the sales of her bows, formed her total fortune.


    Opening her familiar card catalog, she noticed two new cards had appeared. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [ Would you like to spend 100 silver coins to initiate a scene simulation? ]


    "Yes"


    Even though she had triumphed over Alfred in challenge mode, that victory had merely yielded a double demise¡ªher opponent reduced to her level, skills sealed.


    She required more encounters with strong adversaries to hone her skills.


    [ Please select a mode: 1. Challenge Mode, 2. Training Mode, 3. Teaching Mode. ]


    To her surprise, a new mode appeared¡ªTeaching Mode. This had not existed previously; was it perhaps a result of her prior defeat?


    [ Teaching Mode selected!


    Note: Any mode death will terminate the scene simulation. ]


    As the system¡¯s voice faded, Athena opened her eyes once more, finding herself in a familiar setting; however, this time she stood within the city walls rather than outside.


    Gone were the once numerous storm beasts; on the area stood Alfred, his expression calm and amicable, offering her no aggression.

 Chapter 145: The Withered Treants

    Chapter 145: The Withered Treants©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 145: The Withered Tree Spirits


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    Alfred simply gestured for Athena to approach. His primary weapon was a colossal sword, while Athena wielded a black abyss axe.


    Though their weapons differed, they shared common ground in their approach, primarily relying on powerful slashes. More crucially, there was much to learn from Alfred''s form. While Athena had claimed to acquire some weaponry insights from the goblin elder and had trained herself, the guidance of a seasoned instructor was invaluable.


    At that moment, Alfred¡¯s weapon remained sheathed, and Athena hadn¡¯t yet drawn her black axe.


    Without further ado, Alfred assumed a standard martial arts stance and motioned for Athena to mimic his movements. She complied earnestly.


    Two hours swiftly passed. When Athena finally opened her eyes, she found herself back in the base.


    Even after exiting the illusion, she could still feel a phantom pain in her calf¡ªa lingering reminder of yet another kick delivered by Alfred.


    However, it was clear that he was an excellent teacher. Despite only two hours of training, he strived for perfection with every move.


    Upon noticing her awake, the three little creatures paid her no mind, fully absorbed in their card game. Ever since Athena had taught them how to play, they had diligently practiced on their own.


    Now, they were seasoned players, though Paopao had suffered the worst losses, unable to triumph even with a good hand against the two opponents. Each defeat meant parting with a portion of his meagre stash of snacks.


    Next to them lay a small pile of treats, all carefully hoarded by Paopao.


    Athena watched them play a round, realizing they were far beneath her level of skill. Finding it dull, she decided to step outside.


    The sky had darkened considerably, yet the sun remained stubbornly high, casting a fiery glow that did little to fend off the encroaching darkness. Instead, it seemed to take the moon¡¯s place, still dominating the sky.


    Such a sight could only evoke a sense of absurdity.


    The only reassuring aspect was that the base''s barrier had never faltered, its soft glow a constant source of comfort.


    Beyond its protective embrace, the world had turned to desolation, leaving behind cracked earth and withered trees.


    With nightfall approaching, it would soon become even eerier outside.


    Athena gazed out for some time, eventually realizing it wasn¡¯t merely her imagination¡ªthe gnarled branches of the dead trees were subtly swaying. Not due to the wind, but because they were moving of their own accord.


    They appeared to inch closer with each moment; whenever Athena pretended to look away, they advanced a few centimetres. Although the distance was minimal, given enough time, they would inevitably reach the base¡¯s boundary.


    These trees had come to life, and they harbored ambitions that were anything but trivial. The only living beings in the vicinity now resided within the base: Athena and her companions.


    Withered Treant


    Level: 3


    Strength: 3


    Defence: 2


    Skills: Movement, Carnivorous


    An aberration of nature!


    These withered treants had transcended their botanical origins. They no longer drew nourishment from the soil nor relied on sunlight for photosynthesis. Instead, they consumed flesh to sustain themselves. Remarkably, they no longer needed to take root; they could shift their position slowly.


    Dealing with such a large-scale collective mutation of ordinary organisms was a thankless task. Defeating these treants would yield scant experience, and what could one do with their remains? Burn them for firewood?


    At present, Athena required the corpses of a hundred creatures of level five or higher. While acquiring one hundred level five corpses might seem manageable, she pondered an unaddressed concern: would higher-level remains lead to a stronger evolution of the base?


    Observing the stirring withered treants outside, Athena opted against an attack; initiating a confrontation might send them scattering.


    Even the smallest mosquito could be considered a meal, and the defense towers required no personal involvement. Once these creatures drew nearer and realized they could not breach the barrier, they would likely cease their advance.


    Moreover, they would soon enter the firing range, at which point a few projectiles would suffice to dispatch them. Currently, the base''s defensive systems had multiplied significantly since its initial confrontation with the snowstorm beasts.


    Watching the creatures¡¯ pace, Athena noted that even when she averted her gaze, they moved only about half a metre in a minute.


    With that, she chose not to linger by the window any longer and turned back inside.


    The game among her companions concluded rapidly, or rather, Paopao lost rather swiftly.


    Athena discreetly retrieved the cards from Paopao¡¯s deft paws, who let out a sigh of relief and cheered her on from the sidelines.


    Glancing at the cards, she noted that luck was on her side this time; she held a small king and two twos, and the other cards were not too shabby either.


    Thanks to her superior skills, Athena handily won that round, sending Paopao into a jubilant bounce.


    In the next round, she drew a straight. Just as she revelled in her newfound fortune, she realized she lacked any high cards. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She tried to play a straight, only for Witty to discard a bomb.


    ¡°Pass.¡±


    Four twos.


    ¡°Pass.¡±


    A royal flush.


    ¡­


    In the following rounds, it became painfully clear: she did not win a single hand. Whether it was a spring or a counter-spring, her luck seemed to run dry, much to the amusement of her companions.


    Witty¡¯s cards made her wonder if the creature had somehow evolved a skill related to luck.


    Moreover, this unfortunate streak had landed her with the duty of washing the dishes for the next few rounds.


    ¡°You lot keep playing; I¡¯ll check on the situation outside.¡± With that, Athena decisively returned the cards to Paopao.


    She stepped out with an air of calm, and only once the door was shut behind her did she allow herself a deep breath, feeling her spirit lift just a fraction.


    To her surprise, the withered treants had advanced considerably closer to the barrier, clustering together in rings as if attempting to topple it by sheer force of numbers.


    Their naive attempts to push against the barrier, however, would serve only to create a splendid opportunity for experience points.


    Athena silently activated all the defense towers; in an instant, they locked onto their targets.


    Then came the onslaught¡ªfireballs, ice shards, and arrows rained down upon them, shattering their already feeble defense.


    The fireballs proved most devastating; a single ignited sphere would set an entire patch of withered treants ablaze.

 Chapter 146: Gemstones And PVP?!

    Chapter 146: Gemstones And PVP?!©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 146: Gemstones And PVP?!


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    The instinct of the creatures drove them into a frenzy, desperate to flee. Unfortunately, the tightly packed throng behind them could not react quickly enough, leaving those at the front trapped and unable to escape the encroaching flames.


    As the treants continued to burn, Athena was inundated with notifications from the system.


    [Experience Points: 2]


    [Experience Points: 2]


    ¡­¡­


    Once all the withered treants that had missed their chance were eliminated, Athena¡¯s experience points surged by a total of 136.


    Although the individual increments seemed modest, the cumulative experience was rather impressive. Regrettably, the treants lurking in the distance, upon witnessing the devastation, ceased their attempts to approach.


    This left Athena feeling somewhat disappointed.


    [World Chat Channel]


    ¡°I feel something is off outside. Do those trees actually move?¡±


    ¡°What are you dawdling for? Let¡¯s head out and scout the situation while it¡¯s still early and before there are too many monsters!¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you go check it out instead of inciting others?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just pondering if I were to find another player¡¯s shelter¡­ could I attack it? If I manage to breach the shelter, would all the loot belong to me?¡±


    [ System: Players can attack each other, and the barrier defense will drop to 10. Once breached, two shelters will merge, forming a new function. ]


    [ System: However, players are encouraged to explore the world actively, seeking companions and supporting one another! ]


    What had begun as a mere speculative inquiry unexpectedly received confirmation from the system. This revelation stirred those who had previously only entertained the thought in their minds, igniting a sense of urgency!


    ¡°Is this a ploy? Supporting each other, indeed! It¡¯s quite embarrassing to even hear that.¡± S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡°PVP?!¡±


    ¡°The system seems rather perceptive.¡±


    As Athena observed the flurry of comments, she sensed the deep-seated malice emanating from the system. Without such a prompt, some players might genuinely consider remaining in their shelters until the end, provided their resources held out.


    However, this notification sparked curiosity among players. Those who were already intrigued by the actions of others now felt compelled to act, especially with the lure of potential gains.


    What if? What if others were quite close? What if they were defenseless?


    When faced with the terrifying monsters, players often preferred to direct their blades toward their own comrades.


    Seizing another¡¯s wealth was invariably swifter and easier than accumulating one¡¯s own.


    Falling behind even slightly could spell disaster; one could not allow others to gain the upper hand.


    Previously, many had been sharing their hardships and the dire conditions of their shelters in the regional and world chat channels, seeking sympathy and attention from others.


    Now, however, they had all chosen silence, for they feared that any revelation of their circumstances would invite predators.


    Athena felt a keen interest in the system''s proposal.


    The shelter barrier¡¯s protective capacity was merely 10. As time progressed, acquiring upgrades and materials for shelters would only become increasingly challenging. If one could not ascend, many would opt for lateral expansions instead.


    At this moment, Grey struggled to maintain her footing as she clutched Athena¡¯s weapon, striving to advance toward the interior of the house.


    Spotting Athena lost in thought in the courtyard, her eyes gleamed with excitement as she swiftly redirected her steps.


    ¡°Quick, look! Look at Black Friday!¡±


    Before she had even reached Athena, her excitement bubbled over as she relayed the good news to Athena.


    Seeing her unsteady gait, Athena hurried to take the items from her grasp, storing them directly into the system backpack while leaving Black Friday clutched in left hand, Athena''s right arm supporting Grey.


    At that moment, her primary concern was not Black Friday but rather the well-being of Grey. She couldn¡¯t help but worry that her dedicated artisan might be unwell.


    Yet, who could have anticipated that Grey¡¯s eyes were sunken, staring at her like a ghoul?


    ¡°Look at it! Quick, look!¡±


    Athena carefully guided her back inside the house before turning attention to Black Friday.


    The sleek black barrel, adorned with crimson markings, featured a gem embedded in the stock that blended seamlessly, adding the perfect finishing touch.


    [Black Friday]


    Quality: Unique


    Category: Sniper Rifle


    Attributes: Penetration 15 (Up by 5), Range 600m (Up by 100m), Critical Hit Chance 80%, Headshot Chance 35% (Up by 5%), Shatter Effect 30% (Up by 10%).


    Gem: Crimson Tear (Perfect Fusion)


    Description: Times have changed; strike with precision from seven steps away, and with speed and accuracy from closer range. This weapon must be used in a concealed position, with a distance of over 500m.


    At last, Athena understood Grey¡¯s frenzy. This weapon¡¯s attributes were enough to drive anyone mad, boasting an astonishing overall enhancement of nearly 13.


    Aesthetically pleasing, practical, and maintaining formidable attack power¡ªeverything one could desire.


    Seeing the astonishment in Athena¡¯s eyes, Grey beamed with pride. This was one of her most treasured creations, and even she had been taken aback when the final product emerged.


    Athena felt as though she had struck gold; she could hardly refrain from caressing Black Friday, admiring the gem set within.


    ¡°Thank you! The embedding is simply flawless!¡±


    In that moment, Grey felt that all her efforts had been worthwhile. Yet, she had emerged from her work for another important reason.


    Her face radiated with joy as she gazed up at Athena, who remained engrossed in the rifle, seemingly oblivious to her presence.


    Casting a sidelong glance at the three little ones, she noted that they had yet to catch the scent of food.


    As her intense gaze swept over them, they finally responded, only for them to hear Grey¡¯s stomach rumble shortly after.


    The trio halted their play, seemingly oblivious to the need to prepare dinner in their excitement.


    Observing Grey, who looked as if she were about to starve, Mikmik was the first to react. He jumped down from the sofa and pushed a small pile of snacks towards her, indicating that she should eat first.


    Paopao watched the meagre pile of treats, feeling as if his heart were breaking, yet he hurried off to prepare the stove.


    Meanwhile, Mikmik and Witty turned their attention to gathering the necessary ingredients, as they planned to indulge in hotpot that evening.


    The only regret was the absence of chilli¡­¡­


    Watching them, Grey finally came to her senses, two tears silently trailing down her cheeks. After a long day of toil, discovering there was no rice to eat felt like the sky was about to collapse.


    With no other option, she picked up the snacks from the floor, shoving them into her mouth.


    Mmm, delicious!


    In truth, forgoing a proper meal for snacks wasn¡¯t so bad.


    [ Darkness Approaches! Players, please return to your shelters immediately. ]


    [ Darkness is invading the world in 10, 9, 8¡­ 0 ]

 Chapter 147: 007 Players To Athena’s Doorstep?

    Chapter 147: 007 Players To Athena¡¯s Doorstep?©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 147: 007 Players To Athena''s Doorstep?


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    The world was shrouded in darkness, with only the crimson sun hanging on the horizon, its bloody hue giving the impression that it might bleed and stain the earth at any moment.


    The sun had lost its power to illuminate the land, unable to dispel the creeping darkness. Thick shadows writhed, seemingly ready to engulf it whole.


    Below, the oblivious humans laughed and chattered joyously.


    The surrounding trees quivered, hesitant, held back by the flaming torches the humans carried.


    The torches burned brightly, yet they barely illuminated a small patch of ground beneath their feet. The darkness around them seemed almost sentient, its tendrils writhing incessantly, as though trying to drag the men into its depths.


    The badge pinned to the man¡¯s chest emitted a faint glow, warding off the encroaching darkness.


    Most striking of all was the object beside them¡ªsomething resembling a motorbike. "Resembling" because all its wires and components were exposed, devoid of any cover, appearing more like a pile of scrap.


    The man surveyed his surroundings. The sky had now fully darkened, and the restless shadows, the monsters lurking in wait, and the unease gnawing at his heart¡ªall of it urged him to leave this wretched place.


    "Are you done yet? How much longer?" The man asked, his tone laced with irritation.


    His companion beside him, a dishevelled figure with long, soft black hair and a petite frame, gave an exasperated response in a gruff voice. "Stop rushin'', stop rushin''! I''m workin'' on it!"


    ¡°Ah, bloody hell! The component¡¯s busted!¡±


    Seeing his partner¡¯s continued, futile attempts to repair the machine, coupled with that dreaded news, the man felt his heart sink.


    ¡°¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Looks like we¡¯ll be walking back¡­¡± The long-haired youth, noticing his companion¡¯s worsening expression, offered an awkward smile.


    Before they set off, he had triple-checked that the bike would be enough to take them on a full circuit and return. Who could have foreseen it breaking down so suddenly?


    With no choice left, he packed the remains of the contraption into his system backpack and looked back at the man.


    ¡°Let¡¯s move.¡±


    The man turned his head, his face concealed from the youth, yet the latter could still hear the gritted teeth in his voice, a tone that spoke volumes of his frustration. He could only feel a wave of guilt wash over him.


    Although they both wielded torches, they couldn''t deter the creeping, dead trees around them, which were growing increasingly bold and beginning to close in.


    [ World Chat Channel ]


    036: ¡°It¡¯s already dark. How did it get dark so quickly? Looks like I¡¯ll have to push my adventure plans to tomorrow.¡±


    032: ¡°Stop makin'' excuses.¡±


    007: ¡°Hey, anyone nearby? Coordinates shared.¡±


    074: ¡°You mad? Posting your coordinates like that¡ªaren¡¯t you afraid someone will come and raid you?¡±


    007: ¡°We¡¯re stuck outside. Anyone out there? If some kind soul could come and get us, we¡¯d even work off the debt!¡±


    ... ¡°Lol, running about after dark? You¡¯re just askin'' for it, boy.¡±


    ... ¡°You reckon anyone¡¯s dumb enough to fall for that? Fishing with those low-tier tactics?¡±


    Athena hadn¡¯t learned her lesson from earlier in the day, as she was now huddled with the others playing cards.


    She felt like she was torturing herself. She had gone through three simulations today¡ªtwo training ones and one combat¡ªand whether it was in training or fighting, all she''d experienced was getting beaten.


    Beaten up during the day, and playing cards at night.


    After another round, looking at her entirely disjointed hand with not a single high-value card, she handed them over to Grey, who was sitting beside her, amused by the novelty of it all, and then she opened the World Chat Channel.


    Immediately, she noticed the distress signal sent by someone from Area 007.


    Curious, she clicked on the coordinates.


    The areas were numbered adjacently, like that member of their team who had made contact with someone in Area 003 at the boundary. For someone from a few areas away, it should have been nearly impossible to reach them.


    But upon opening the coordinates, Athena''s eyes lingered on the map. The shared coordinates not only displayed the other party''s location but also gave her a one-sided view of her own.


    She confirmed it several times. Judging by the current map display, they were no more than three kilometres away, meaning they had been moving steadily ever since the barrier was activated.


    Could they have some sort of vehicle?


    Perhaps a contracted beast?


    It wasn¡¯t an unreasonable thought. After all, who would have imagined that these people had exchanged various items and cobbled together a "motorbike"?


    Anyone brave enough to take such a significant risk and press forward had to be powerful, at the very least capable of handling the monsters they encountered and any minor crises along the way.


    Moreover, they said "we" when they sent the message. It was at least two individuals or perhaps a group. Could it be a trap?


    Crossing multiple areas just to bait others into a trap?


    ¡°One¡­ three.¡±


    ¡°Hahahaha! Hahaha!¡±


    With her final card played, Grey burst into a loud laugh, breaking Athena''s train of thought. Grey had managed to turn the game around, despite her awful hand.


    Mikmik stared blankly at the "Bomb King" still in her own hand.


    Feigning indifference, Athena glanced at the pile of discarded cards and the ones Grey held, verifying her win, before nonchalantly heading back to her room.


    Once in her room, she discovered that the window was facing precisely the direction of the people from Area 007.


    Three kilometres¡ªa distance that, at a brisk pace, would take about an hour to cover. For individuals like them, who had enhanced abilities, perhaps just a half-hour sprint would suffice.


    But since they had sent out a distress signal, it seemed they were trapped by something.


    Athena''s gaze narrowed slightly. She wasn¡¯t sure if they¡¯d make their way to her location.


    If they managed to attack and seize her shelter, her sanctuary would merge with theirs, while her own would vanish.


    Yet she knew it was a near-impossible feat. Not only was there the system barrier to contend with, but also her defensive turrets¡ªand Athena herself would ensure they¡¯d regret it if they even tried.


    What would happen, though, if she killed them first?


    Instead of attacking their sanctuary, she would just eliminate its owner. The system hadn¡¯t mentioned that scenario.


    [ World Chat Channel ]


    007: ¡°I¡¯m not baiting! I swear! My vehicle broke down, and we¡¯re stranded!¡±


    ... ¡°You been drinkin¡¯, mate? Since when do we have cars? In your dreams, pal!¡±


    ... ¡°What happens if you kill a player who owns a sanctuary/base, without attacking their shelter first?¡±


    036: ¡°??¡±


    028: ¡°??¡±


    [ System ]: Under normal circumstances, players are not encouraged to kill each other. However, considering the current special situation, killing a player who possesses a shelter will allow the killer to obtain half of that player¡¯s defensive turrets and the materials for shelter upgrades from the player''s system backpack!


    Note: After a shelter is breached, the player will not die immediately but will become a ¡®wanderer¡¯.¡±


    S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 148: Is It A Black Cat?

    Chapter 148: Is It A Black Cat?In the darkness, there lay inherent dangers¡ªnot merely the monsters or the eerie sun¡ªbut the darkness itself was the gravest threat.


    Whenever Athena and her group ventured into the darkness, they were always under the protection of luminous candles, much like when they had the safety of the special items provided by the system during the battles. Only thus had they managed to evade certain death.


    To step directly into the darkness would be to akin to suicide.


    Truth be told, what the system had said was enticing to her. Compared to toiling away to find things on her own, having opportunities presented to her was indeed a rare luxury.


    And the target was so very near.


    Thus, under the puzzled gazes of Grey and the others, Athena, who had just gone upstairs, slowly descended once more.


    "Mikmik, come over here."


    Mikmik, who had been absorbed in a game, glanced over at Athena approaching. Though he was a bit reluctant to part with his hand of cards, he knew that if Athena was calling him, it must be something important. So, obediently, he put down his cards.


    Witty looked left and right, realizing it had nothing to do with him. He simply picked up the cards Mikmik had left and signaled for the game to continue.


    It was truly baffling that the system¡¯s shop sold anything one could imagine, yet refused to sell paper and ink. Moreover, these commonplace items weren''t permitted to be brought in from elsewhere.


    Grumbling aside, Athena dutifully took a stone and placed it on the floor, using a piece of charcoal to draw upon it continuously.


    She eventually managed to sketch out a rough map, circling the location where they currently stood and marking where the 007 players was situated.


    She then looked at Mikmik, who was wagging his tail earnestly, paying rapt attention.


    "Got the location, have you?"


    Mikmik seemed slightly offended¡ªoffended that Athena had doubted his skills as her apprentice and his ability to learn. He lifted his fluffy head and stared at her, nodding resolutely.


    Initially, she had intended to go back out to gather some materials for crafting explosive orbs, but encountering this situation had left her plans in disarray. Currently, she had only three explosive orbs left¡ªeach one irreplaceable.


    She handed one over, choosing one of stable quality, and Mikmik only needed a glance before gently holding it in his mouth, then stuffing it into his fur. The explosive orb disappeared beneath his coat without a trace. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    No matter how many times she witnessed it, Athena always found his fur fascinating.


    "Check the numbers, test their strength. If they prove too tough, retreat. If cornered, use the explosive orb." She continued to instruct him, though she knew that with Mikmik¡¯s abilities, it was likely the enemy wouldn¡¯t even know he was there until it was too late.


    Mikmik wagged his tail at her before sprinting out the door, slipping through the shelter¡¯s barrier, leaving a faint shimmer in his wake before vanishing into the darkness.


    Meanwhile, Ebony Veil and Azure Dew had barely managed to bring down another group of withered treants. At long last, the remaining treants seemed to have learned their lesson, ceasing their advance towards them.


    Instead, they anchored themselves firmly in place, appearing for all the world like ordinary dead trees.


    "Ebony, we need a plan. If this keeps up, we¡¯ll collapse from exhaustion first!" Azure Dew shouted, panting heavily.


    "Shut up! And who do you think got us into this mess?" Ebony Veil snapped back.


    "Hey, don¡¯t pin this all on me. You agreed to come along, I didn¡¯t force you!" Azure shot back.


    "Oh really? Who was the one boasting there¡¯d be no problems? Didn¡¯t you claim you were some super inventor? How come it broke halfway?" Their argument grew increasingly heated, until the pair were shouting directly in each other¡¯s faces, seemingly oblivious to their dire surroundings.


    ...


    The area fell silent, with only the occasional crackle from their torches breaking the stillness.


    "You did send out an SOS in the world chat, didn''t you?" Ebony Veil eventually asked, attempting to de-escalate the situation.


    "Yeah, but don¡¯t even mention it. No one bothered to reply. I got a load of snark instead, people accusing me of baiting them. Where¡¯s the trust between people, huh?" Azure Dew slumped to the ground, hoping they could just make it until dawn without any more trouble.


    The medals on Ebony Veil¡¯s chest¡ªthe same as the one on Azure''s¡ªwere unique awards from their clash with Area 008 in the regional battle.


    Without the protection of those medals, they wouldn''t have dared to venture out, especially not now. They would''ve been swallowed by the darkness hundreds of times over by this point.


    "Did you seriously post our coordinates?" Ebony Veil muttered, scrolling back through the world chat.


    Upon seeing that Azure had indeed shared their exact location, Black Veil felt his head throbbing. This was the sort of reckless thing Azure would do.


    "Of course! How else would people know where to find us?"


    "Are you serious?"


    "Who cares? If they come with good intentions, it¡¯ll work out. If they don''t... well, let them perish," Azure Dew said, grinning.


    "You¡¯re mad."


    "Aah!" Azure, who had been sitting on the ground, suddenly let out a yelp, feeling something heavy smack into his back.


    The force was substantial, and caught completely off-guard, he cried out in alarm.


    Ebony Veil immediately took notice. All he saw was a dark, indistinct shape, too small to make out clearly.


    Mikmik¡¯s stealth mode allowed him to perform many tasks, but it had a flaw. If he launched an attack or was struck, his stealth would deactivate temporarily, re-engaging only once he exited combat.


    Still, with his natural camouflage, combined with his speed and small frame, Ebony Veil had only managed to glimpse a fleeting shadow.


    "Get over here! Something¡¯s out there!"


    No need to tell him twice¡ªAzure leapt to his feet and scrambled over to Black Veil, the two standing back-to-back, eyes fixed on their surroundings.


    ¡°What in the world¡­ Not even a shadow!¡± Azure muttered as he frantically scanned the area.


    ¡°Shut it!¡±


    Ebony Veil strained to focus, activating his scouting ability.


    But it was a futile effort. His skill was pushed to its utmost, sensing everything around them, but somehow, the creature that had attacked them remained elusive.


    As he pondered this, he felt it approaching again, and before he could warn Azure, another pained yelp echoed.


    "Damn it!"


    Ebony Veil quickly swapped positions with Azure but had lost sight of the creature once more¡ªthis time seeing nothing at all.


    "Did you see what it was?"


    Azure hesitated, a hint of uncertainty creeping in.


    "It... it seemed like a black cat?" Even he sounded doubtful, looking down at the fresh claw marks on the back of his hand.


    Meanwhile, Mikmik was circling around them, still concealed, observing and preparing for his next move.

 Chapter 149: The Cat

    Chapter 149: The Cat©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 149: The Cat


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    The two of them were strung taut with nerves. This creature attacking them wasn¡¯t just unafraid of fire; it could even vanish into thin air.


    Having succeeded twice, Mikmik grew complacent. It hadn¡¯t expected these two to be so weak. The instinct of a cat toying with its prey awoke within it, and Mikmik¡¯s mischievousness surged.


    It had forgotten its original purpose¡ªto retreat once the mission was complete.


    Once again, it pounced. But in the instant it leapt, Ebony Veil reacted first, clenched his fist, and swung fiercely in Mikmik''s direction. His forearm, reinforced by iron bracers, nearly made contact with its body. In midair, Mikmik could hardly maneuver effectively and barely evaded the strike.


    Although this attempt had missed, his reaction was improving¡ªhe was beginning to anticipate Mikmik¡¯s moves. Another try, and he might hit for real.


    The playful mood that had just arisen was quickly squashed. As Mikmik prepared to retreat, Azure Dew rummaged through his backpack and flung something towards it.


    The substance glittered as it left his hand, possibly glow-in-the-dark powder. Though Mikmik recoiled sharply, a few particles stuck to its fur as the wind carried them.


    It seemed like it had taken things a bit too far. For the first time, its invisibility was compromised, the glowing powder clinging to its fur. As it moved, the sparkling trail betrayed its presence. To an unknowing bystander, it might have appeared as if a ghost were playing tricks in the dark.


    A mess indeed.


    Mikmik moved rapidly on the ground, but the two men remained hot on its heels. It couldn¡¯t risk leading them back to the sanctuary, knowing full well he¡¯d be scolded if he did.


    If he couldn¡¯t shake them off on the ground, perhaps an alternative approach was required. No matter what, he couldn''t lead them to the sanctuary. A good old diversion was needed.


    Bee Wings. A tiny golden orb, no larger than a marble, dropped from its fur. The Bee Wings had been Athena¡¯s reward from the last regional battle¡ªthree pairs in total, distributed among the trio.


    With a shake, spectral wings sprouted from Mikmik¡¯s back, far larger than its own body.


    Mikmik flitted around the two, the air currents stirred by its wings slowly ridding its body of the powder.


    Ebony Veil looked up, watching the sky. There was a black cat, its jet-black fur blending into the vast darkness. And yet, astonishingly, its body shimmered with faint starlight.


    More surprising still was the pair of glowing wings extending from its sides, resplendent in their clarity.


    "A monster with equipment? Could it be a high-level beast, with the intelligence to use items..." S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He kept elbowing Azure Dew in the back, gesturing for him to find something¡ªfast.


    "I''m looking, I''m looking."


    Watching the flying creature, Azure Dew¡¯s heart pounded. He was frantically rummaging for his mechanical crossbow.


    Why hadn¡¯t he realized before how disorganized his things were?


    Finally locating it, he shot a few bolts towards Mikmik, which it evaded effortlessly. Soon, Mikmik had shed the last of the powder, vanishing into invisibility once more¡ªalong with the wings.


    It disappeared from sight, darting swiftly back to the sanctuary.


    On its way out, Mikmik even made sure to swat a few loose tufts of fur in another direction.


    ¡°Chase it!¡±


    Seeing it vanish, Ebony Veil felt a surge of frustration. Today was truly a rotten day¡ªdid they really think they could bully the two of them so easily?


    ¡°Chase it?¡±


    ¡°Chase what? We¡¯re lucky to have survived this. Who knows if there are more monsters? Run, run!¡±


    ¡°Chase it!¡±


    ¡°Run!¡±


    ¡°You¡ªyou just wait...¡±


    In the dim candlelight of the sanctuary, Athena reclined on the balcony, a thin blanket draped over her.


    Her system panel was aglow.


    Initially, she¡¯d intended to trade some rare minerals with "Asks-The-Heavens," but he mentioned his supply was limited. With that option dismissed, the conversation wandered off-topic.


    Asks-The-Heavens said, "I¡¯ve gathered my team. We¡¯re planning an offensive against Area 003 soon, but we''re short on manpower. Any interest?"


    Asks-The-Heavens was also sitting comfortably in his two-storey cottage, sipping hot tea. As he messaged Athena, he was simultaneously organizing his group in another chat.


    The people in Area 003 had clashed with them in the last regional battle. With this function re-opened, it made sense to prioritize eliminating that threat and avoid further complications.


    Athena understood perfectly why Area 003 was the target instead of Area 005¡ªthey had some familiarity with each other and grievances from the last encounter. Besides, given Asks-The-Heavens'' ongoing transactions with Area 003, they had precise information of the 003 players.


    ¡°Sure. When?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow morning at seven. Head straight east, and you¡¯ll reach the boundary.¡±


    This move was in the collective interest of their entire area. Asks-The-Heavens knew Athena wouldn¡¯t refuse.


    If his team was the strategic brain of their area, then Athena represented its top combat power. With her on board, more people would be encouraged to join.


    This group had learned to rely on their self-healing capabilities¡ªthere was no fear of them leaving their homes vulnerable to raids.


    They discussed more details, and after settling on a general strategy, ended their pleasant conversation.


    Athena closed her communication channel, glancing over at the rowdy crowd. The gambling frenzy had reached a fever pitch, and the snacks below piled ever higher.


    Gambling fools¡ªgamble too much and end up with nothing.


    Mikmik had been out for quite a while and hadn¡¯t yet returned¡­


    Looking at the inky blackness outside, Athena fell silent. It wasn¡¯t that she doubted Mikmik¡¯s abilities, but anything could happen.


    She eyed her watch. Ten more minutes. If Mikmik didn¡¯t come back, she¡¯d go looking.


    Two minutes later, the sanctuary¡¯s barrier rippled slightly, and a flying creature suddenly hurtled in. Evidently, Mikmik hadn¡¯t quite mastered the art of flight yet and hadn¡¯t learned to stop in time¡ªcrashing straight into the ceiling beam.


    Athena opened the door to see Mikmik sprawled on the floor, dizzy, with little golden orb beside it. Prince and Princess were covering their mouths, stifling their laughter, much to Mikmik¡¯s indignation.


    The Bee Wings weren''t a one-time-use item; they could be used for a total of three hours. If they weren¡¯t used up all at once, they¡¯d revert to the golden orb. Once their usage accumulated to three hours, they¡¯d disappear for good.


    "You used the Bee Wings?"


    Mikmik nodded.


    "Troublesome opponent?"


    He nodded furiously, tail swishing.

 Chapter 150: Black Friday Sniper

    Chapter 150: Black Friday Sniper©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 150: Black Friday Sniper


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    Mikmik hadn¡¯t sustained any injuries during the battle, but the bump on his head upon returning had left him more rattled than he would care to admit. Dazed and disoriented, it still tried to pick a fight with Prince and Princess, only to find itself scooped up by Athena and carried back to the shelter.


    Athena, unperturbed, questioned him thoroughly. Through his vague gestures and somewhat abstract scribbles made with a charcoal pencil, Athena pieced together an idea of the individuals involved.


    In a bid for recognition, Mikmik skillfully omitted the part where he had been discovered, focusing instead on how he had deliberately left clues to throw the enemy off his trail. He hoped to receive praise for his efforts.


    Athena, however, merely smiled gently, understanding far more than Mikmik had let on. She knew it had likely been discovered after toying with the adversaries a little too much, probably leading to a hasty retreat.


    Ignoring Mikmik¡¯s attempt at seeking credit, she warned, ¡°Next time you pull a stunt like that, you¡¯ll be sleeping in the vegetable garden.¡±


    ...


    Meanwhile, Ebony Veil and Azure Dew, locked in another argument, finally saw Azure emerge victorious. Together, they had chosen to follow the direction Mikmik had intentionally led them toward¡ªright in the path of Athena''s shelter.


    ¡°If we head the other way, we¡¯ll avoid trouble,¡± Azure Dew suggested confidently. ¡°These monsters will only attract more creatures. Once tonight passes, I¡¯ll find something to fix the car tomorrow, and we¡¯ll leave this cursed place.¡±


    Ebony Veil¡¯s face darkened at the suggestion, recalling how similar promises had been made when they first arrived. Luck had not been kind to him since teaming up with such a reckless companion.


    ¡°Are we really not going after that cat?¡± Ebony Veil asked again, suspicion lingering in his voice.


    Azure Dew, for once, grew serious. ¡°You know something¡¯s off, so why pursue it? With your strength, you struggle to take me on!¡±


    ¡°Struggle to take you on? I was going easy on you!¡± Ebony Veil retorted.


    Their intentions may have been noble, but as fate would have it, they continued heading straight toward Athena¡¯s territory.


    As for Mikmik, the threat of being banished to the vegetable garden sent a chill through its body. Not daring to hide the truth any longer, it confessed everything in painstaking detail, even throwing in some self-reflection for good measure.


    However, its indulgence in snacks was curtailed for the week. Watching helplessly as its fruit was handed over to the luckless Paopao, Mikmik¡¯s spirits sank.


    Athena, gazing out the window, seemed lost in thought before heading upstairs. Agile as ever, she vaulted from the second-floor balcony, landing on the rooftop with the grace of a butterfly.


    There, she quickly assembled her jewel-encrusted sniper. Despite never having used it before, her mastery over firearms ensured her actions were swift and precise.


    Based on Mikmik¡¯s description, one of the two men seemed aggressive, while the other appeared more intelligent. Mikmik¡¯s tricks weren¡¯t exactly subtle¡ªperhaps they¡¯d seen through the ruse and were now headed straight for the shelter.


    The sniper rifle, capable of reaching up to 1200 meters, had its range extended by the system to 1600 meters. However, the darkness posed a significant obstacle, limiting visibility to only the additional 600 meters provided by the system.


    The two men were originally over three kilometers away. If they truly were headed in her direction, they would now be within two kilometers.


    Assuming no delays along the way, they would enter her range within thirty minutes, given an average walking pace.


    Lying still on the rooftop, Athena focused her attention on the distant landscape. Her fingers curled around the cold metal of her sleek sniper rifle. Through the scope, her gaze was sharp, missing no detail.


    The scenery stretched out before her, but her attention remained fixed on identifying her targets. She waited patiently, like a predator stalking its prey.


    It wasn¡¯t long¡ªperhaps ten minutes¡ªbefore she spotted them. Ebony Veil and Azure Dew.


    Her first reaction was to recall the haphazard sketches Mikmik had made of the pair. The resemblance? Let¡¯s just say the drawings had no bearing on reality.


    Adjusting her position, Athena prepared to pull the trigger.


    Ebony Veil and Azure Dew, with their limited vision in the dark, had their attention drawn to the shelter¡¯s glowing barrier. It was unmistakable from a distance.


    Their initial response was excitement. It seemed luck had finally turned in their favor¡ªa shelter in this forsaken land? The owner must be having an awful day.


    However, that excitement quickly morphed into wariness. As they drew closer, they recognized the shelter as a level four stronghold.


    The owner of a shelter like this was no amateur, and the defensive towers surrounding it were another formidable deterrent. They were standing on the enemy¡¯s turf, which gave them little advantage.


    ¡°This place isn¡¯t worth the trouble. Let¡¯s just treat it like a campsite and move on,¡± Azure Dew suggested.


    ¡°Agreed,¡± Ebony Veil replied, for once not offering a rebuttal. They didn¡¯t even consider approaching Athena for assistance.


    Ebony Veil knew well enough that targeting a shelter of this caliber was unwise.


    Then, a sudden gust of wind lifted his hair, sending a chill down his spine. Instinctively, he shoved Azure Dew aside and threw himself backwards, narrowly dodging a bullet that tore through the air between them.


    The Black Friday rifle was notorious for its high hit probability, particularly when aiming for vital areas. However, it required minute adjustments to land a critical shot.


    Dodging the first bullet had rendered it ineffective.


    Ebony Veil barely had time to celebrate before another terrifying presence locked onto them.


    Athena, calm and unshaken, knew for certain that her targets hadn¡¯t sensed anything before the shot. The man in the black hoodie had a disturbingly strong intuition and had reacted with alarming speed.


    Her emotions remained undisturbed, as if nothing could disrupt her. She methodically adjusted the sniper¡¯s aim, her gaze steady and resolute.


    This time, her target was the long-haired man lying on the ground.


    He hadn¡¯t yet recovered from the shove and was blissfully unaware of the imminent danger. Her finger brushed the trigger, waiting for the perfect angle.


    She squeezed the trigger, and the bullet shot forward. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With a sharp crack, the bullet soared through the air, swift and deadly, tearing through the sky toward its target.


    At this distance, Ebony Veil had no chance of pushing his companion out of the way again. He could feel his entire body tense, every instinct screaming at him to flee.


    ¡°Move!¡± he bellowed, his voice hoarse with desperation, just as the gunshot echoed through the night...

 Chapter 151: Repelling the Attack

    Chapter 151: Repelling the Attack©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 151: Repelling the Attack


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    The bullet shot forth like a bolt of lightning, racing straight for the enemy''s lung!


    It pierced his flesh, embedding deeply within his tissue. Had it not been for his considerable defensive capabilities, that bullet would have completely penetrated his body.


    At that moment, Azure Dew entered the pit, engulfed by an unbearable wave of agony. His body contorted, mouth agape in a silent scream, producing a shrill wail that echoed through the air. The pain crashed over him like relentless waves, battering his nerves.


    He lifted a hand, attempting to cover his wound, but all he could manage was to let blood gush forth uncontrollably.


    Beside him, Ebony Veil¡¯s pupils dilated in shock, momentarily rendered speechless by the sight before him.


    Yet, he knew this was not the time for hesitation. Before Athena could take another shot, he dashed forward and hoisted Azure Dew up in his arms.


    With the last remnants of his fading consciousness, Azure Dew swiftly retrieved a white mechanical sphere from his backpack. The sphere levitated above him, its tiny mechanical arms spreading outwards like delicate white veins, sealing the gaping wound that bled profusely, stabilizing the potentially fatal injury.


    Ebony Veil, clad in his combat boots, noticed mechanical patterns emerging on them, significantly amplifying his speed as he sprinted away with his injured comrade. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena observed everything, her mind racing. She had suspected that her adversaries might possess hidden capabilities, but this level of ingenuity took her by surprise.


    So many mechanical creations could not possibly originate from a fixed source; there was only one possibility¡ªthey had built them themselves. Just as she could craft various explosives, it was entirely plausible that they could engineer such devices.


    Lost in thought, her hands remained steady as she once again pulled the trigger.


    The prey moved swiftly, but sadly for them, the hunter''s aim was swifter.


    This time, however, they had learned their lesson well. A semi-transparent light beam enveloped them¡ªnot a teleportation aura, but rather a protective shield.


    The bullet spun upon impact with the shield, then slowly descended to the ground, while the pair had already dashed out of the shooting range.


    The sudden emergence of the protective shield caused Athena to frown slightly. The opposition possessed more resources than she had anticipated; this might not even be the final surprise they had in store.


    Each piece of equipment they wielded would be a lifeline in anyone else''s hands, yet here, they appeared to be commonplace.


    She lingered for a moment, waiting to confirm there was no further activity, before rising to stow her Black Friday back into her pack.


    Pursuing a retreating enemy is foolish; given the combat prowess displayed by these two, it was unlikely she would fare well in a confrontation.


    She contemplated the Area 007, familiar with its mechanical manufacturing capabilities, and decided to check the area list.


    ...


    Even with his wound now sealed, the faint scent of blood was still a lethal attractant. The once-timid withered treants, previously deterred by the threat they posed, were now surging forward.


    Initially, Ebony Veil managed to outrun them with the enhanced speed granted by his combat boots, but with an injured person in tow, his mobility was severely hampered.


    As they ventured further, however, the energy consumption of the boots escalated alarmingly. Before long, their power reserves were nearly depleted.


    Azure Dew had intended to assist, but was firmly restrained by Ebony Veil. Though the mechanical sphere controlled the wound, allowing him some temporary mobility, any excessive movement risked reopening the injury.


    Despite having no torch in hand, Ebony Veil, in the midst of their sprint, waved his left hand forward, igniting sparks that appeared to materialize from thin air.


    Before long, the tiny flames erupted into a massive fire circle surrounding him, expanding rapidly into the space around them.


    The colossal ring of flames spread outwards, threatening to consume everything in its path.


    One wave of treants fell to the blaze, only to be swiftly followed by another.


    In the shadows, a pair of crimson eyes watched intently, its barely perceptible breaths waiting for the perfect moment.


    The chaos attracted even more hunters lurking in the darkness.


    The creatures had long ceased their game of cards, gathering instead at the entrance of the shelter.


    Though they could see nothing, their acute hearing caught the rhythmic sound of gunfire, instilling within them an overwhelming sense of tension and dread. They had no understanding of the events unfolding, only that they must remain vigilant, fixated on the distance.


    As soon as Athena descended from the upper floor, they recognized that the ordeal had concluded.


    Meeting their watchful gazes, she nodded slightly, prompting them to turn and resume their card game without hesitation.


    Settling onto the sofa, she activated her system panel and scrolled through to the Area 007.


    Those two would likely rank highly.


    As she had surmised, their avatars were pixelated representations based on their real appearances. While they did not provide an exact likeness, they conveyed enough features to discern the individuals.


    The long-haired male was the easiest to identify; he ranked second in the Area 007.


    Like the Area 004, the Area 007 was a distinct area, confirming that their adversaries belonged to a significantly powerful faction, at least in terms of the number of survivors.


    [Azure Dew]


    Zone ID: 007 Independent Zone


    Attributes: Cannot be viewed.


    Description: Combat capability barely makes the top ten, yet in terms of overall strength, he could undoubtedly rank second or even surpass the first. Highly skilled in crafting various mechanical contraptions.


    Upon finding the long-haired male, she scrolled down to discover the seventh rank belonged to Ebony Veil.


    [ Ebony Veil ]


    Zone ID: 007 Independent Zone


    Attributes: Cannot be viewed.


    Description: Action-oriented with exceptional close-combat skills. Lacks personal flair¡ªhis greatest distinguishing feature.


    It was unfortunate that she could only access general information, yet having any details was better than none.


    The withered treants became fuel for the flames, their bodies igniting and forming a colossal bonfire, interspersed with the remains of several defeated monsters.


    The once-restless creatures retreated after the fierce battle, though it remained uncertain whether a second wave of monsters might be drawn to the commotion.


    Seated back-to-back near the bonfire, the two individuals tended to their wounds. Their clothing was tattered and stained with blood, bandages wrapped haphazardly around their bodies, a faint medicinal aroma lingering in the air.


    With the scent of blood no longer concealable, it was only a matter of time before monsters were attracted to them. Thus, they decided to amplify the ruckus, using this form of intimidation to deter the creatures lurking nearby.


    This approach proved effective.


    Amidst the swirling sands, a palm-sized figure wearing a conical hat fell into a crevice in the earth, quietly climbing back to its feet, clutching a small scroll of parchment in its hand.


    As it traversed the terrain, it caught sight of the distant glow.

 Chapter 152: A Shift in the Sky

    Chapter 152: A Shift in the Sky©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 152: A Shift in the Sky


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    The lost soul gazed toward the distant glow, braving the swirling sands as it approached.


    Though no bigger than the size of a hand, it stood unwavering against the relentless wind. The scent was strong¡ªa mix of monstrous musk, coupled with the unmistakable aroma of humans.


    Its form slowly elongated, bones protruding as if desiccated, and its sunken cheeks deepened. With each hunt, it evolved. Where once its eyes were pools of inky blackness, a faint white ring now circled the edges.


    This small addition¡ªa mere sliver of white¡ªgranted its powers a significant leap.


    Dark threads, as black as the abyss, swirled between its hands. They hovered ominously, ready to ensnare any prey the moment they were detected.


    [Lost Soul]


    Level: 6


    Skills: Confusion, Intimidation, Misleading


    It sought companions, those who would journey with it.


    Like a ghost, it drifted ever closer toward the flickering firelight. Its presence, peculiar as it was, made the withered treants part ways before it, allowing passage. As for the unfortunate creatures too ignorant to yield, they were swiftly devoured, their souls condemned to wander alongside it.


    Then, it spotted two humans¡ªdelicious prey.


    As the thick black smoke dissipated, the enormous figure shrank once again to a size that could fit in one¡¯s palm, its grotesque face scrunched in displeasure, lips pursed.


    Its once-majestic cloak, now tattered and scratched, was hastily withdrawn in a fit of anger. It dared not linger here and quickly turned towards the sanctuary of Athena.


    The creature unfurled the parchment in its hands.


    "The Sky¡¯s Shift."


    It raised a tiny hand, wiping away the phrase. As it did, a new line slowly materialized. The action sent a shudder through its body, as if struck by a jolt of electricity, wisps of black smoke curling from its form.


    Yet, despite the discomfort, it hadn¡¯t crossed the boundary of what was forbidden, remaining within acceptable limits.


    The words reappeared on the parchment:


    "Watcher Nearby, Campfire."


    Frustration boiled within it, longing to scrawl the humans¡¯ exact appearance, even pinpoint the location. But alas, it lacked the authority to do so.


    For the lost soul, its vengeful desire seemed utterly justified. It was valuable information after all¡ªwhat harm in altering it a little?


    In the end, it was Witty who emerged victorious, collecting a mountain of treats, taller than itself.


    As for the unfortunate outcome, Paopao lost every last morsel of its snacks.


    Now, Witty curled up on the sofa next to Athena, a fluffy black-and-white ball of fur, its back turned toward them.


    The night visitor was in an ill temper, nursing wounds that still ached dully. Its grip on the parchment tightened as it seethed.


    Athena set her book aside, rising to answer the door. Her gaze instinctively fell downward.


    As expected, the lost soul, no larger than a hand, stood there. She raised an eyebrow in mild surprise, for the last time they met, it had been the size of a thumb.


    It seemed the creature had been busy, evolving significantly since their last encounter.


    This time, it didn¡¯t wait for her to extend her hand. Eagerly, it raised the parchment, urging her to take it.


    As soon as Athena grasped it, the parchment reverted to its normal size.


    Reading the line, Athena¡¯s first thought went to the two individuals who had just fled from Zone 007.


    Normally, the messages the lost soul delivered pertained to monsters or environmental changes, yet this time, it brought news of people¡ªinformation she was already aware of.


    She observed the creature closely. It, too, was watching her, silently assessing her reaction.


    In the past, it would have grown impatient and left by now. But today, it lingered, quietly gauging her response.


    Its usual black robe was nowhere to be seen, replaced by a dusty, greyed appearance. If she hadn¡¯t been so observant, she might have missed the faint cuts marring its small body.


    Given the direction it had come from, and knowing its nature as a creature that thrived on deceiving others, why would it let two wounded humans slip away?


    The truth was simple: it was still too young. Though intelligent, it lacked experience in the treacherous games humans played.


    ¡°Did you encounter two people on your way here?¡± Athena asked.


    The lost soul''s initial reaction was one of stunned confusion, followed quickly by a display of feigned bewilderment, as if offended by the question.


    But this only served to confirm her suspicions.


    She thrust the parchment back into its hands. As soon as it touched the creature, the parchment shrank once more.


    "Write it as it was. No alterations." Her gaze was sharp, her tone cold.


    The lost soul was absorbing knowledge at an alarming rate. One day, it would grow into a true monster, master of deceit and temptation. When that day arrived, no contract would hold it bound.


    Making deals with monsters was always akin to dancing with a tiger.


    For now, though, Athena intended to squeeze whatever use she could from it.


    Her thoughts remained unchanged. The lost soul''s description had always been simpler than that of other creatures. Its profile contained little more than its level.


    Yet, its growth was swift. It was the only creature she had encountered thus far that could move freely in the dark, endowed with a unique affinity for shadows.


    Upon realizing its trick had been caught, the lost soul''s first instinct was to flee.


    But the sanctuary permitted its entry because of its contract with Athena.


    Now, at her command, it could just as easily seal it within, preventing any escape.


    Sure enough, it smacked into the barrier.


    Defeated, the creature reluctantly took the parchment and, with no other choice, rewrote the original message upon the blank page.


    A fool¡¯s errand indeed. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Without real information, nothing would appear on the parchment. Athena wasn¡¯t concerned it would try to alter it again; as long as the information was useful, that was enough.


    As the sanctuary¡¯s barrier parted, the lost soul wasted no time in fleeing, vanishing into the night. Athena, having acquired the information she sought, paid it no further mind.


    She lifted her gaze toward the skies. Compared to the desolate earth, the sky seemed almost¡­ normal.


    Yet, that only deepened her unease. Even armed with this new knowledge, the path ahead remained shrouded in mystery. She couldn¡¯t see, nor could she grasp, what lay beyond the veil.


    If there was one thing that stood out in all this strangeness, it was that blood-red sun¡ªneither warm nor able to banish the darkness.


    It no longer rose, nor did it set, having replaced both the sun and moon.


    But for all its brilliance, it seemed nothing more than a beautiful ornament, bringing about no real change.


    If there was any true shift in the sky, it had to be that.

 Chapter 153: The Plan Changes

    Chapter 153: The Plan Changes©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 153: The Plan Changes


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    The crimson sun hung low in the sky, casting its glow over the barren land, and all around was an eerie silence.


    Perhaps it was merely a trick of her mind, but Athena felt as though the sun had taken on a deeper shade of red today, verging on black even.


    Clutching the parchment in her hand, she remained silent for a long time, her thoughts drifting back to the recent agreement she had made with Asks-The-Heavens.


    [ Regional Chat Channel ]


    ¡°Surely we¡¯re not going out to confront 003 tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Of course we are! We must go. Who knows if this situation will last two days, three days, or even a month?¡±


    ¡°As the saying goes, ¡®He who kills and burns takes gold for his belt.¡¯¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s mass murder we¡¯re talking about! How can you all joke about it so casually?¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s the lunatic up there? Drag them out; monsters relish devouring those with twisted minds.¡±


    ¡°Are so many people planning to join in?¡±


    Asks-The-Heavens¡¯s inquiries had drawn quite a crowd for this operation. News spread rapidly¡ªone person told ten, ten told a hundred. The chat channel was buzzing with excitement.


    [ Big Dream sends you a message.]


    The scalpel in his hand flipped deftly as he dissected the rabbit carcass before him.


    Though he no longer required his surgical skills, he was determined not to lose his touch. Now and then, he would find something to practice on.


    They had just finalized their plans for the attack tomorrow in the chat group.


    Using some water nearby, he washed the blood from his hands. Big Dream usually didn¡¯t reach out to him without good reason; was there something urgent at hand?


    Asks-The-Heavens opened his chat channel.


    -¡°I¡¯ve just received some information.¡±


    -¡°That thing in the sky is behaving strangely; its color has turned increasingly red. It¡¯s likely to undergo a second mutation very soon.¡±


    -¡°If it continues to change before midnight tonight, I won¡¯t be going tomorrow. I suggest you all reconsider your plans as well.¡±


    He read through this information with a furrowed brow. Although he was unsure where Big Dream acquired such extensive intelligence, he understood that her top ranking status was not self-assigned. She possessed resources he could not access.


    He looked up at the sun. Unless one paid close attention, it was easy to miss that it had indeed deepened in hue since yesterday.


    In the current circumstances, attacks among regions were merely a matter of time. They were all vying for an advantage rather than simply adopting a defensive stance.


    But if Big Dream had genuinely uncovered different information¡­


    Then perhaps their plans for tomorrow truly needed adjustment.


    Not a complete overhaul, but they would have to wait until after midnight to see if there were any changes. This would indicate that the information Big Dream had received might not be entirely accurate¡ªno precise timing to rely on.


    If something were to happen, he would certainly inform his team.


    ''Let¡¯s hope for a peaceful night¡­''


    ...


    Athena rubbed her throbbing temples, then reached to remove the earthen wall outside the shelter. Compared to her earlier attempts at controlling the time, her mental strength had certainly increased significantly.


    Asks-The-Heavens replied, ¡°I have a rough understanding of the situation and will await further developments to adjust our plans accordingly.¡±


    There were no signs of confusion or questions from him; he accepted this fact with calm assurance.


    Interacting with Asks-The-Heavens was indeed a refreshingly pleasant experience.


    At her side lay ten scrolls, acquired through trade with scroll guy, Potato, costing her ten silver coins. These were acceleration scrolls; it was always wise to stockpile such items for future use.


    It wasn¡¯t that Potato had been unwilling to trade before; the chance of successfully reorganising duplicate scrolls was rather slim. Now, however, he had rushed over to her the moment he had new information to barter.


    She gladly accepted all ten scrolls without hesitation.


    Everyone had their secrets¡ªPotato¡¯s varied scrolls, Asks-The-Heavens¡¯s special abilities, and even those two individuals from area 007 whom she had encountered recently.


    Her fingers gently stroked the black-colored axe in her hand, its blade glinting with a mysterious crimson light, subtly exuding an aura that sent shivers down her spine. Her gaze sharpened as if peering through the axe into an endless world.


    As she moved her fingers along the icy surface and keen edge of the black axe, she contemplated her next journey to the goblin city.


    Although she had made little progress in alchemy, she had mastered the explosive ball technique learned from Mu, yet crafting a quality or even perfect explosive ball remained a lengthy process with slim chances.


    Additionally, the Moonlight Bow could be enhanced through the fusion of similar weapons; the black abyss axe could likewise be improved. However, she had only found one weapon during her time with Uncle Gowther, leaving her without additional axes for fusion.


    It was unclear if he had managed to forge anything noteworthy during this interval. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For now, she wouldn¡¯t venture there. Preparing enough food for a visit to the goblin city was essential, as they lacked provisions, making food a far better medium for communication.


    Inside the grand fireplace, a fierce fire blazed, crackling and popping with life.


    Beside it sat an exquisite candle, its tiny yet stable flame gently radiating a warm glow.


    While both emitted bright flames, their purposes were entirely different.


    The fire in the hearth was meant to warm the room and create a comfortable atmosphere, its fierce heat dispelling the chill and invoking a sense of home.


    Conversely, the primary function of the candle was to guard against and dispel darkness, serving as a key to the shelter¡¯s activation.


    In addition to the mid-level candle currently alight, Athena possessed two junior candles. Others, however, were not so fortunate, as yet another candle¡¯s duration was about to expire.


    The count of survivors had not ceased, and the next threshold was 500. Should their region¡¯s population decline to that number, a new phase would commence.


    Feeling rather bored, Athena sat by the fire, gazing through the circular wooden window at the sky, quietly observing its changes.


    It had been a long while since she had attentively watched the sky like this. If only everything remained calm tonight¡ªit was a shame.


    As she looked up at the sun, now so deep a red it appeared almost black, a small dark spot emerged, rapidly expanding and threatening to engulf the sun.


    Yet, in an instant, everything felt like an illusion. The sun was still the same vibrant crimson as before; it no longer bore the taint of blackness.


    "I felt... empty"


    Athena felt a wave of nostalgia wash over her. The clock had long since passed midnight. How many would notice this fleeting change?


    "..."


    ''Many have died, and indeed, we too shall meet our end. I survive, yet there lingers within me that I have already succumbed to death. For reasons beyond comprehension or maybe, hallucinations, what is the purpose behind all of this?''


    If she hadn¡¯t been watching so intently and question everything since the day she awakened in this world, Athena too might have thought all was as it should be.


    And that surviving is meaningless.

 Chapter 154: A World-Wide Crisis Approaches

    Chapter 154: A World-Wide Crisis Approaches©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 154: A World-Wide Crisis Approaches


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    Not only was Athena unable to sleep, but Asks-The-Heavens and the first five members of his team, upon receiving Big Dream¡¯s message, found themselves wide awake as well. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even the smallest, swiftest changes had not escaped their keen eyes.


    In almost no time at all, their organised group and the regional chat channel erupted into a flurry of messages, despite the fact that very few were actually awake to witness it.


    [ Regional Chat Channel ]


    ¡°The sun is acting strangely; plans have changed. Cancel the original plans!¡±


    ¡°The sun is acting strangely; plans have changed. Cancel the original plans!¡±


    ¡­


    A relentless stream of messages poured forth.


    Athena opened the door to the shelter, standing in her courtyard once more.


    She looked up at the enormous sun hanging above, surrounded by an expanse of darkness seemingly covering the entire world. To her, everything appeared normal; perhaps she was simply overthinking the situation.


    Outside, the withered treants remained beyond the range of the defense towers'' attacks. Using a pile of wooden blocks stacked outside the shelter, she leapt and climbed to the rooftop, re-establishing her formation for Black Friday.


    The cold, dark barrel of the gun pointed mercilessly at one of the treants.


    With a gentle touch, Athena rested her finger on the trigger and pulled it decisively.


    The bullet pierced through the shelter¡¯s barrier, soaring toward the distant treant. The tremendous force and destructive power created a massive hole in the trunk, splintering wood fragments in all directions.


    The treant fell to the ground, yet Athena received no experience points for her effort.


    Despite Black Friday¡¯s formidable attack power, which surely carried immense recoil, this time she found the action to be remarkably smooth, without any adverse effects.


    The regional chat channel buzzed with sporadic messages, remnants from that group sent before they settled in for the night, and Asks-The-Heavens had yet to provide her with further updates.


    Holding her shooting stance, Athena waited for a moment before three small creatures emerged from their hiding places.


    They appeared startled, as though awakened by the thunderous sound of the gunfire, still a bit dazed.


    Athena regarded them with a cold indifference, stowing away Black Friday, only to produce an elegantly archaic bow and arrow, imbued with a melancholic beauty.


    From her elevated position, she drew the bowstring taut, aiming at the trio through their panic-stricken eyes, and let fly.


    The most uncoordinated among them, Paopao, was struck; the wound still oozed blood as it cried out pitifully. Yet, alas, there was no trace of sympathy or softness in Athena¡¯s heart.


    She took aim once more, her arrow directed at them again. Paopao¡¯s pudgy paw snatched at the arrow¡¯s tail, dislodging it and tossing it aside, the bleeding wound having already healed completely.


    Beside it, Mikmik and Witty were no longer in disarray. Instead, their gazes turned steely, fixated on Athena as if she were a delectable prey.


    They countered her actions with remarkable agility, attempting to leap onto the roof to launch an attack.


    The arrow that had originally aimed at Paopao shifted direction, now targeting Witty mid-air. It had no time to evade and was struck, crashing back down to the ground.


    Athena¡¯s arrows flew with unyielding precision. In such close quarters, while she wouldn¡¯t claim to hit every shot, her success rate was high; the next arrow was released toward Mikmik, who barely dodged, losing momentum in its jump and failing to land atop the roof.


    Without a moment¡¯s pause, she continued releasing arrows, and the once-active trio now found themselves unable to seize even the slightest opportunity.


    ¡°Transform back!¡± she commanded, her voice carrying a subtle edge of anger. Yet this slight shift in her tone only heightened the trio¡¯s will.


    They dodged frantically to avoid the incoming arrows, even pushing one of their own into the path of fire, while the others seized the chance to scale the roof.


    Their actions were decisive, but their expressions¡ªfull of mockery, innocence, and pleading¡ªmade Athena feel utterly nauseated.


    At last, Witty found a moment of opportunity and leapt upwards.


    With its little furry head tilted innocently, it resembled a harmless rabbit, and it called out to Athena, seeking her favor.


    However, in that moment, it was terrifying; half of its flesh was aflame, while the other half rotted away.


    A small turret materialized above its head, launching a shell directly at Athena. She widened her eyes at the sight, leaping down from the rooftop without hesitation.


    This base had dismal defense capabilities; a single shell obliterated much of the floor, sending debris flying and leaving behind a mere ruin in the blink of an eye.


    That cursed rabbit emerged from the wreckage, the cannon still aimed at Athena.


    Mikmik, beside it, vanished from sight and surged toward Athena, attempting to slice through her neck with its razor-sharp claws. Paopao, too, had grown larger, charging at her with reckless abandon amidst a cloud of mist.


    Meanwhile, Witty cared not for its companions¡¯ well-being, launching a second barrage of shells toward Athena.


    She leapt to the side, her left foot carving a half-circle on the ground, sending dust and debris into the air. A fragment of stone struck something nearby, and her black abyss axe was soon at the ready.


    The first strike missed, but she quickly redirected the axe, swinging it down upon Paopao¡¯s shoulder.


    Ignoring the pain, the colossal bear sought to pin her in place with its massive claws. Yet, with a backflip, she narrowly evaded and drew back her axe, just as another shell came crashing down.


    A tremendous explosion rocked the area, sending the two creatures at the center into a spray of gore, while Athena was caught in the backlash of the blast.


    The ground where she had once stood now bore a massive crater littered with bits of flesh. In the distance, the rabbit tilted its head, confused, and fired again.


    Athena sprinted towards it, the scattered remnants of flesh behind her converging once more, reshaping themselves.


    They retained the forms of Mikmik and Paopao, but now their bodies were riddled with cracks, grotesque and horrifying, stitched together from the remnants of flesh.


    Clearly, the rabbit was the mastermind behind this; though the reason why this illusion lacked a system evaluation remained a mystery, Athena knew she had to attack first.


    For should she falter, they could take her life at any moment.


    A swift resolution was essential; the longer this dragged on, the more concerning it became. These monsters had begun mimicking the abilities and skills of the trio.


    At first, when she attacked them, they could only imitate the small creatures¡¯ appearances. Now, they were employing their tools and skills as well.


    If this was an illusion, what awaited her beyond its confines?


    The shelter was under relentless assault, a colossal, indistinct beast looming atop it, seeking to tear through the vexing barrier.


    The defensive towers continued their barrage, and even Witty was manning its tiny turret in the fight, yet none of it had any effect.


    The others, gathered around Athena, attempted to rouse her, but their efforts were in vain.

 Chapter 155: The Shattered Mirage

    Chapter 155: The Shattered Mirage©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 155: The Shattered Mirage


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    Within the illusory realm, Athena found herself in quite the predicament. The creatures around her had not only transformed to mimic the forms of her three little allies but had also mastered their abilities.


    Had that been the extent of it, Athena might have merely found it an annoyance. However, no matter how many times she destroyed these impostors, they would restore themselves as if untouched. The lunar power of her Moonlight Bow, usually so effective, seemed to barely graze them. The creatures shaped as a cat and panda were particularly vexing, disrupting her every move. The cat, with its ability to vanish at will, was proving the most troublesome of all.


    Refusing to waste her strength endlessly on these resilient foes, she focused her attention on the rabbit.


    Among the trio, the half-decayed, half-fiery rabbit was by far the most peculiar. Athena knew these creatures couldn¡¯t be truly immortal; it had to be that she simply hadn¡¯t uncovered their source. Her hunch was that the rabbit might be the keystone to breaking free from this twisted realm, the true essence binding the illusion together.


    After a decisive strike that took the panda¡¯s head clean off, she found herself a mere three meters from the rabbit, who made no move to flee. Its crimson eyes gleamed with a mocking glint, its miniature turret retracting as it observed Athena with what seemed to be scorn.


    Repeated close-range bombardments had left the area in shambles. Shattered stones and debris from relentless battles peppered her skin with cuts, reminding her starkly that, while this may be a mirage, death here would mean death in reality.


    With a burst of speed, Athena''s legs propelled her forward, gripping her axe as though it were death''s own scythe.


    The rabbit sneered. Small and swift, it had evaded her with ease, leaping away whenever she came close. Yet Athena¡¯s efforts to pursue only drained her further. Every passing second within this illusory world siphoned her mental strength. Should her will power wane entirely, she¡¯d sink irreversibly into this illusion, never to wake again.


    Unperturbed, the rabbit toyed with her, its agile hops always enough to elude her swings. Though maintaining the illusion drained its energy, the thrill of taunting its prey seemed well worth the cost.


    In yet another leap, a sudden gale grazed past it¡ªAthena''s foot.


    In a moment of sheer disbelief, the rabbit found itself in mid-air, frozen in shock as Athena¡¯s powerful kick sent it hurtling through the air. It sailed with the speed and force of one of its own shells, streaking towards an abandoned pit where it crashed with an earth-shaking thud.


    A massive dust cloud billowed up, engulfing the area in a swirling haze that obscured everything. Athena¡¯s kick had been a formidable one, and the rabbit¡¯s body, now mangled, showed signs of internal damage and broken bones.


    ¡°Meeeeeeee!¡± it screeched, its cry now grotesquely distorted, no longer the rabbit¡¯s voice at all. In response, the panda and cat creatures dissolved into pools of inky black water, surging toward their wounded leader.


    From beyond the shelter¡¯s boundaries, another identical cry echoed, signalling the same pain.


    Observing that the rabbit¡¯s wounds failed to heal, Athena knew she had hit the mark.


    These creature manifestations were nothing but burdens now, sapping its strength rather than aiding it. The rabbit¡¯s current state left it vulnerable¡ªanother strike might just finish it.


    Athena had no intention of wasting time on the puddles. She dashed towards the sprawled rabbit, producing a small vial of violet liquid as she ran. Splattering half of it behind her, the first trickle of black water that touched the liquid reacted violently, merging before letting out a tortured wail and evaporating right in front of the rabbit.


    She hadn¡¯t used the potion before because, even if she had, the creatures would have instantly regenerated. But now, with the rabbit pinned down, it was a different story.


    The violet liquid was none other than a distilled extract from a Purple Dream Bud- its usual dream-inducing properties transformed, now venomous enough to dissolve the dark pools that sustained these creatures.


    With one of the pools gone, the other retreated, fearful of the same fate. Athena didn¡¯t hesitate to send more of the liquid toward her struggling foe.


    The rabbit recoiled as droplets sprayed over it, its translucent body flickering. Had it been tangible, the potion might have torn into its very essence.


    The potion passed through the creature, landing on the ground. With the rabbit¡¯s form phasing and fading, the space around them could no longer hold steady. The illusion trembled violently, its fabric fraying at the seams.


    The entire world around her began to collapse, shattering in a burst of force as it crumbled into countless fragments. Athena¡¯s form flickered, caught in the collapse, until she was thrust back into reality.


    A sharp dizziness overtook her as her eyes fluttered open, and with a start, she sat up, startling Gray, who stumbled backwards.


    That wretched creature had chosen the most drastic of measures, detonating the entire realm in an attempt to take her with it. Although she¡¯d half-faded before the explosion hit, the blast still jarred her mentally. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just as she¡¯d regained her senses, a shrill, unrelenting scream assailed her ears. The toll of her recent ordeal compounded with this fresh agony, leaving her reeling.


    Raising her left arm, she tugged back her sleeve, revealing faint scratches.


    It appeared that injuries sustained within that twisted illusion had materialized upon her body here. Outside, mingling with the sounds of battle, came the unmistakable boom of shellfire. Rising from the couch, she pulled Gray to her feet and moved to the door.


    The shelter¡¯s defensive turrets had not ceased firing for a single moment. Her three little allies, stationed around the turrets, adjusted the aim and scanned for any weaknesses in the enemy.


    Upon spotting Athena, her small allies swarmed to her as though she were the fortress¡¯ cornerstone.


    Her gaze fixed on the enemy, and her first impression was of sheer enormity. The creature loomed, towering nearly half the height of the shelter¡¯s barrier.


    All turrets were trained upon it, yet the relentless assault seemed to leave it unscathed. Clawing at the barrier with massive hands, it shifted its entire weight to bear down upon the protective shield, eyes narrowing as it detected Athena.


    A twisted half-humanoid creature, its lower body melded into a dense, viscous pool of dark water. Its enormous face pressed against the barrier, strands of seaweed-like hair clinging to its partially rotting, half-scorched visage.


    Its disjointed eyes rolled wildly before locking onto Athena, its mouth opening in a feral howl. The sound echoed with such fury that even the cursed, withered treants, previously reluctant to approach, now surged forward in droves toward the shelter.

 Chapter 156: Cataclysm-Class Threat

    Chapter 156: Cataclysm-Class Threat©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 156: Cataclysm-Class Threat


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    [Warning: Sanctuary Barrier Under Attack!]


    [Warning: Sanctuary Barrier Under Attack!] sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Presence of an Ultra-High-Class Energy Being Detected!]


    [Dark Minion]


    Class: Cataclysm


    Strength: ???


    Defense: ???


    Skills: ???


    Only Known Skill: The creature can drag all human units within three hundred-kilometer radius into a hallucinatory realm, adjusting the realm¡¯s intensity to match the number of captives.


    The entity only appears within the Blackened Grounds!


    The rapid system alerts left Athena reeling, unable to believe what she was witnessing. This wasn¡¯t the entity¡¯s original form; rather, it was one of the countless fragments the mother creature had split off, drawing them all into a nightmare dimension. Meanwhile, these fragments continued to assault the sanctuary barrier from the outside.


    Previously, even when the sanctuary barrier came under attack, it never triggered such urgent warnings. But now, it had issued multiple red-colored alerts.


    Athena recognized the template¡ªthis was something on the level of a "Galore," a monster capable of catastrophic destruction, if not, stronger! If it weren''t for the sheer number of players within three hundred kilometers diluting its energy, this creature might have already torn through the sanctuary¡¯s defenses!


    No!


    She and everybody else will die for sure!


    The fragment fixated on Athena as though puzzled as to why this human had managed to break free of its illusion.


    Her shelter boasted high-grade defenses, yet she wasn¡¯t certain they could withstand this onslaught for half an hour.


    Looking up, she saw that the once-vibrant sky had darkened completely. The fiery red sun had vanished¡ªnot simply set, but entirely disappeared, devoured by the blackened void that consumed it!


    The system¡¯s ominous purple text had warned her:


    [ The entity only appears within the Blackened Grounds. After the anomaly, the sun had turned a blood-red hue, and now it was obliterated entirely. ]


    This place no longer belonged to the contested war zone. It was something else¡ªsomething darker. The Blackened Grounds.


    The world had always been split into two vast domains, and their contested battlefield had always been positioned at the intersection of light and dark, where day and night endlessly clashed. But now, darkness had claimed this zone.


    Their former battleground had already seen its victor declared¡ªthe dark. And that boded ill for every player.


    The frontline, composed of cities held by players and nations alike, had shifted. Since Athena¡¯s departure from the Sol Kingdom, city after city had fallen, swallowed by darkness.


    Day had lost. Yet again, it had yielded ground, forcing the frontline to recede. Now, the players'' region itself had become the Blackened Grounds.


    "Damn it!"


    What triggered this sudden escalation in the dark¡¯s offensive?


    If not for this unanticipated twist, creatures of this caliber shouldn¡¯t even be present here. The legendary Alfred had once held a fortified city against this level of threat, by sacrificing himself, what hope did she have against such a monster now?


    For the first time, Athena felt the dreadful grip of terror.


    Gunfire raged without pause, but with the withered treants crowding around her, spreading her firepower across them wasn¡¯t an option. She had to let them gather, hoping they wouldn¡¯t overrun her position.


    Athena climbed to the second-floor rooftop and positioned Black Friday, her firearm, ahead.


    Of her current arsenal, the Black Abyss Axe was unusable, and the Moonlight Bow¡¯s most powerful enhancement, the "Lunar Force," was ineffective due to the significant level disparity. Thus, Black Friday was her only viable option for physical damage.


    [ Regional Chat Channel ]


    "The sun¡¯s gone. Change of plans¡ªabort the original mission!"


    Their messages had flooded the regional chat channel moments before, but no replies had followed. Everyone else was now ensnared in the hallucinatory realm, trapped between life and death.


    The number of survivors was plummeting, dropping off a cliff.


    [1231]


    [1002]


    ...


    Many were still lost in the realm, unable to discern reality from illusion, while others had already fallen to the monstrosities, their low-tier shelters overrun.


    The world chat channel, in comparison, was faring slightly better. Fewer players remained active, but each seemed to be fighting for their lives with renewed desperation.


    [ World Chat Channel ]


    019: "For Godsake, where¡¯s the sun gone?! And what are all these monsters doing here?!"


    053: "Too many of them, and they''re massive! Can our shelters hold up?"


    036: "Help! What even is this? It¡¯s like a mountain! I¡¯m going to die here!"


    060: "What¡¯s going on? System keeps blasting us with warnings, and how come it''s only targeting our region? Did the players in the first wave all get wiped out?"


    The world had descended into utter chaos. Creatures around the shelters were surging with newfound power due to the change in the zone¡¯s nature. They advanced relentlessly, determined to obliterate these human structures.


    Despite Black Friday¡¯s barrel heating up and her body trembling out of instinctual fear, Athena continued firing as the monsters of all sizes covers every nook of the barrier.


    "Ah... ah..."


    While trying to regulate her fear and breathing, Athena had discovered that dipping Black Friday''s bullets in the Purple Dream Bud¡¯s nectar inflicted at least some damage on the entity¡¯s fragment. Each bullet spiraled through the air, slicing towards the creature with near-unavoidable force, striking its weak points. Yet, the creature¡¯s eyes and head seemed frustratingly out of reach.


    Though the shots hadn''t pierced deep, they gradually caved in parts of the creature''s body which brought calmed to Athena''s nerves. Repeated fire caused a crack, black blood seeping through. Athena seized the opportunity and fired relentlessly at the breach.


    It seemed that the Purple Dream Bud¡¯s properties, akin to the monster¡¯s own hallucinatory abilities, amplified Black Friday¡¯s lethality, allowing it to break through.


    Her arms throbbed from the gun¡¯s recoil, losing feeling. Despite her robust physique, a few more rounds would dislocate her shoulder¡ªor worse. But this was her only option. She couldn¡¯t let the creature continue its attack on the barrier or else- game over.


    Outside, every bullet that struck the creature drove it into a frenzy, causing it to bellow in pain before renewing its assault with greater fury.


    Shot after shot, it began trying to dodge the bullets.


    But its immense body made dodging impossible.


    At last, the creature''s rage reached a fever pitch. No longer attempting to evade, it slammed its spiked hands against the sanctuary barrier, gripping it tightly and heaving upward.


    BAAMB!! BAAMB!! BAAMB!! BAAMB!!


    Earthquakes and shockwaves!!!


    The ground around it sank as it pushed its weight down, forming a vast pit. It was trying to pry the sanctuary barrier out of the earth itself!


    The barrier flickered in defiance, yet held steadfastly in place.

 Chapter 157: Is This The End?

    Chapter 157: Is This The End?©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 157: Is This The End?


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    [ Warning: Refrain from using Black Friday again; the weapon poses a risk of catastrophic failure. ]


    ¡°What now?...¡±


    What else does she have at her disposal? Two Explosive Orbs? Not a chance! There were more than just this one creature lurking nearby; the sound of an Explosive Orb detonating in this dimly lit expanse would undoubtedly draw more attention. Who could say if another cataclysm-class monster would come charging in?


    The Moonlight Bow, stripped of the Lunar Essence, was no more effective than the defensive towers below.


    The Sanctuary Barrier looked as it always did, yet a moment ago, the system had caught her off guard with a notification.


    [ Sanctuary Barrier Energy: 42% ]


    Before she could ponder the implications, her gaze met those abyssal eyes, and an overwhelming terror seemed poised to engulf her once again!


    [ Mental Assessment in Progress... ]


    [ Assessment Successful! ]


    The illusions had already taken a severe toll on her mental faculties, and now a splitting headache threatened to shatter her concentration, as if the very nerves in her mind were on the brink of exploding.


    The dark monster, previously roaring with rage, ceased its deafening screeches upon seeing Athena retract that peculiar elongated stick.


    Realizing it couldn''t breach the Sanctuary Barrier, it took a step back.


    Yet Athena harbored no delusions about its retreat; her instincts screamed that this was far from over.


    Having distanced itself, the creature loomed like a miniature mountain in the gloom. It tilted its head skyward, unleashing a soul-shaking howl that echoed through the heavens, as though attempting to shake the very fabric of the world.


    Without warning, it charged forward with terrifying might of a mountain!


    Its colossal form colliding violently against the transparent Sanctuary Barrier!


    BAAMB!


    A thunderous sound erupted, sending tremors and shockwaves through the barrier. The surrounding monsters were flung far away, if not smashed into visceral pieces!


    Athena felt her heart clench tightly.


    However, this ginormous monster had no intention of giving up; it continued to batter the barrier, each collision reverberating through the air reaching the skies!


    [ Sanctuary Barrier Energy: 22% ]


    This could not continue. When the energy hit zero, the barrier would shatter. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    While the Sanctuary Barrier was active, no other barriers could be deployed. Even if she attempted to switch to another barrier the moment the Sanctuary Barrier crumbled, it would offer little defense and would soon be shattered itself.


    That instant of interruption¡ªbe it merely a fraction of a second¡ªcould prove fatal.


    Once the Sanctuary fell, she would become a wandering player. The system had not elaborated on the consequences, but it could only lead to a slow demise.


    Taking a deep breath, she leapt down from the upper floor.


    She needed to prepare for the worst!!!


    In her garden, she gathered the little plant spirits still nestled in the soil and retracted all the trees.


    Approaching the low wall, she gently touched the still-unfurling flower bud.


    [ Retrieval Successful! ]


    A small green orb containing delicate new shoots emerged¡ªit was a thorn vine. Regrettably, such special items could not be stored in her bag space.


    The nearby Grey seemed to anticipate Athena''s intentions, yet glancing at the fearsome creature outside and the trembling Sanctuary Barrier rendered her speechless.


    She approached Prince and Princess, smiling as she neared them, and swiftly knocked both unconscious. Watching, she noted how Mikmik intended to imitate her.


    The three little ones turned their heads, their first ferocious displays of baring teeth at her, refusing to submit.


    [ Sanctuary Barrier Energy: 16% ]


    No time left to dawdle!


    ¡°Grey.¡± This was the first time Athena spoke to her with such seriousness.


    ¡°Take them and go. I... I shall find you later.¡±


    With a resolute gaze, she entrusted her beloved companions to Grey.


    She produced nearly all the remaining food and tree seeds, handing them to Grey, leaving herself with merely a day¡¯s worth of rations and 600 silver coins.


    She couldn¡¯t leave, but they could.


    The Goblin tribe was, after all, a treacherous group that dwelled in shadows. Their investment in Athena had undoubtedly stemmed from her being a third-world inhabitant, benefitting from the system with an exceptionally rapid growth rate, perhaps seeing her as a potential source for a ¡®great tree¡¯ in the future.


    But Athena was not unique; she was merely one among many players.


    Yet should she become a wandering player, how could the Goblins ever accept her, an alien among them¡ªstrong yet unstable, rich yet devoid of her third-world identity?


    She wouldn¡¯t gamble, wouldn¡¯t wager on mere chance, nor on the hearts of others.


    But Princess and the others were different. They were special beings, even having the chance for a second master recognition. They inherently possessed value; moreover, she had entrusted Grey with ample resources.


    Only after confirming Athena¡¯s demise would the bond with the Goblin tribe become evident, allowing them to care for these little ones until her return.


    She opened her system panel and flipped through her tomes; the Goblin page still glimmered with light, a sign that they remained safe.


    [ Would you like to teleport to the Goblin tribe? ]


    "Yes"


    Athena expended a World Stone, and a familiar teleportation portal materialized within the Sanctuary.


    The appearance of the teleportation array did not go unnoticed by the monstrous entity outside; its assaults became swifter and more frantic.


    As the portal manifested, the system issued another warning.


    [ Players are advised not to attempt escape while under attack in the Sanctuary! Failure to comply will result in immediate classification as a wandering player! ]


    ¡°Go.¡± She maintained her usual calm gaze upon Grey.


    But upon glancing at the little ones nestled in her arms, and then back at the three little ones and Athena, Grey found herself unable to voice her concerns; her throat felt parched. Their time together had barely spanned a month, yet it had been the most thrilling time of their lives.


    Her father had told her many stories about the inhabitants of the third world, all ending in tragedy.


    -No one survives.


    Yet stories were but stories; they wouldn¡¯t become her reality, would they?


    ¡°Goodbye.¡±


    She forced herself to remain spirited.


    Athena uttered no grand farewells, nor did she expect any in return.


    For she firmly believed that Athena would return, just as she always did after each battle, certain of victory.


    Grey led the little ones through the portal, but due to exceeding the allowable number, Athena had to offer another World Stone, yet the portal remained unsealed.


    She looked at the three little ones, who recoiled at her approach.


    "Are you certain you won¡¯t go?"


    Their defiance spoke volumes.


    ¡°Fine, we haven¡¯t the time to linger; it¡¯s your choice.¡±


    ¡°Just don¡¯t regret it!¡±


    [ Sanctuary Barrier Energy: 10% ]


    ...


    Since arriving in this world, Athena had witnessed too many deaths and too many sufferings. The population in the region dwindled daily; she never believed herself to be particularly special, merely striving with every ounce of strength for the slightest chance at survival while utilizing the hints given by purple texts.


    A mere moment- no more than one second- was not an opportunity given by enemies; it had to be seized.


    Yet even if she managed to grasp it, it would only delay death, much like each defense tower mission; the goal was always to repel and exterminate the creatures.


    Under the gaze of the servant of the dark, the small and fragile human stepped boldly out of their damned shell.


    A piercing, shrill laugh echoed through the heavens.

 Chapter 158: The Destruction of the Shelter

    Chapter 158: The Destruction of the Shelter©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 158: The Destruction of the Shelter


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    It seemed to be a battle without suspense.


    The monster''s gaze finally shifted from the shelter to the diminutive human.


    Like a starving tiger pouncing on its prey, it charged toward Athena, intent on overwhelming her in the inky waters beneath it.


    Athena stood atop the earthen wall. As the wall rose, countless withered treants shouted from below, attempting to drag her down.


    Suddenly, behind her, a pair of transparent wings, akin to those of a giant bee, unfurled slowly. These wings shimmered with a crystalline clarity, glinting faintly in the dim light.


    As the wings spread, the surrounding air stirred, creating a gentle current that lifted her, allowing her to soar into the sky.


    The monster charged toward her, and she, too, flew toward it.


    Unanticipated was the sight of this human soaring through the air. It lashed out with its claws, aiming to knock her from the sky.


    An hair, reminiscent of seaweed, elongated impossibly, reaching toward Athena and leaving her with nowhere to escape. With a deft twist, she evaded the onslaught; her wings were now an integral part of her being, a confluence of power that surged toward the creature, closing the distance.


    The once wildly flailing tendrils and claws ceased their frantic assault, now wary of harming their master and instead seeking to ensnare her.


    In the midst of their intricate dance, their gazes met once more.


    This creature was toying with her!


    Yet Athena could not afford to dwell on such thoughts; there was no retreat left.


    She hovered behind the monster, her form dwarfed by its monstrous size, her black abyss axe resembling nothing more than a child''s toy in her hands.


    With a fierce swing, she aimed to bring the axe down, but the monster suddenly expelled a surge of black mist around it, a mass of writhing shadows that ensnared her arms tightly.


    The protective snow armlets twisted and deformed under the immense pressure, but she gritted her teeth and struck downwards with all her might, her axe meeting the dense smoke.


    Before the shadows could engulf her completely, she retreated once more.


    Her arms were already soaked in her own blood.


    Following that, a torrential assault erupted from her-- a tempest of blows accompanied by explosive fury. She swung her axe repeatedly, each strike infused with all her strength, as if to cleave the very heavens apart.


    Through her relentless effort, she discerned a fleeting crack in the creature''s defenses and seized upon the opportunity, closing in on the wound she had previously inflicted.


    Without hesitation, Athena plunged her black axe deep into the monster''s wound, cutting downwards with every bit of power she possessed. The axe was smeared with the purplish essence of purple dream buds, and the gash released tendrils of black smoke as flesh and blood disintegrated.


    A howl erupted from the monster, its massive form quaking violently. Athena''s actions had thoroughly enraged it.


    [ Mental Strength Check¡­ ]


    [ Check Failed! ]


    [ Paralyzed, 1 second! ]


    Athena stood dazed, her body locked in place, while the monster''s claws surged towards her with the force of a tempest.


    Suddenly, she was whisked away by something-- a peculiar creature with wings.


    Yet, contrary to her expectations, the creature¡¯s invisibility proved ineffective here, as if it were inherently countered.


    In yet another assault, it overwhelmed Athena, pushing her away. Her small frame was slammed to the ground.


    Now free from the immobilization, Athena saw little hope. The only possible means to break the deadlock lay in the explosive orbs.


    But even those would not deliver a fatal blow from the outside; the creature¡¯s weakness lay in its head, specifically in the delicate eyes it so diligently guarded.


    Since their battle began, it had not opened its mouth; instead, it emitted sounds from deep within its throat.


    She attacked the wound repeatedly, yet her efforts yielded little benefit, leaving her battered and bloodied. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As bait¡­


    [ Calling forth the Servant ]


    Darkness shall consume all!


    Enemy debuff -30%; self buff +30%.


    The sudden debuff hit her, sending her flying backward; several of her internal organs shattered, yet the strength beyond human limits allowed her to continue moving.


    Determined to take a final gamble, Athena focused her energy, hurling her black axe towards the monster¡¯s eyes. The axe spun through the air, exuding a fierce momentum.


    The monster sensed the danger and raised its hand to block; the axe struck with tremendous force, causing blood to gush forth, while Athena collapsed to the ground, her consciousness teetering on the brink.


    The creature regarded the axe embedded in its hand, then turned its attention to the fallen Athena.


    Victory was at hand!


    With a swift motion, it swept its arm, and long hair whipped into the air, sweeping toward Athena! In the blink of an eye, her body was ensnared in the hair and drawn into its grasp.


    Its fingers tightened like iron claws, gripping her fiercely and continuing to constrict! As its grip strengthened, every bone in her body creaked ominously, the sound sending chills down her spine.


    Blood began to seep from her orifices, and the already unconscious Athena jolted awake, her body wracked with agony!!!


    "ARRGGHHHHAAAAHHHHHH!!!"


    Her screams pierced the air, sharp and agonizing!


    The creature opened its maw, relishing the blood that dripped from her, before finally tossing Athena into its mouth.


    In that brief instant, the tides turned once more, and her wings unfurled again.


    [ Redemption ]


    Type: Earring


    Rarity: Extremely Rare


    Description: A beautifully crafted earring, not only exquisite in appearance but endowed with formidable powers; never let its beauty deceive you.


    Whenever you find yourself on the brink of death, it grants temporary protection, restoring health over time. However, defeat your enemy within one minute, or suffer severe backlash, leading to instant death!


    Her murky eyes instantly cleared, a single breath sustaining her.


    She retrieved her last two explosive balls, preparing to deliver a fatal blow to the monster. The distance was perilously close, and the creature remained completely unguarded; she hurled the balls directly into its gaping maw.


    Leaping beside its eye, she conjured arrows that pierced into its pupil, following swiftly with an explosive ball thrown into the abyss of its gaze.


    The monster retaliated violently against the shelter.


    With a tremendous roar, an explosion erupted simultaneously within its body and its eyes! The shockwave distorted the surrounding air, creating ripples that sent shivers down the spine.


    Under the force of this overwhelming power, the monster was obliterated, its remnants scattering across the area. The spectacle was astonishing, resembling a spectacular fireworks display.


    Yet, behind this seemingly beautiful facade, danger lurked.


    [ Kill the Dark Minion''s Avatar! ]


    [ Shelter Barrier Energy: 1% ]


    But the next moment¡­ a colossal impact reverberated.


    [ Sanctuary Barrier Energy: 0% ]


    As Athena plummeted rapidly, she barely caught sight of another avatar''s silhouette and the shattered remnants of the shelter''s barrier.


    Those fractured barriers floated down like leaves caught in a tempest.


    Athena struggled to regain control, but she realized she had lost all command of her body.


    She barely had time to activate a new barrier; the bear, too, attempted to grow larger but, like the creature, remained oblivious to life and death¡­


    The enormous form lunged downward, a massive black sphere materializing in its grasp!


    [ Shelter Barrier Shattered! ]


    [ Shelter Under Attack! ]


    [ The Shelter is Destroyed! ]


    [ Player ''Big Dream'' is now a Wandering Player! ]

 Chapter 159: Death Sentence

    Chapter 159: Death Sentence©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 159: Death Sentence


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    [ The wandering player will lose all basic system functions! ]


    [ As punishment, only penalty missions can be accepted; one may revert to a normal player once the accumulated mission value reaches a certain threshold! ]


    She lay crumpled on the ground, unable to move a single muscle from yet another wave of impact. Blood seeped from her torned body, staining the cracked earth beneath her.


    With her fading vision, she strained to pierce the encroaching darkness, where monstrous silhouettes loomed ever closer, a colossal shadow draped over her like a funeral shroud.


    Beneath that oppressive shadow lay the ruins of her once-vibrant home, now a graveyard of dreams. The very ground beneath her trembled as the shadow relentlessly ground the last remnants of her crumbling walls to dust, each fracture echoing like the final cries of a dying world.


    All her efforts, every sacrifice made to preserve the sanctity of this place, were now being trampled mercilessly before her eyes, a cruel betrayal by the very ground she had fought to defend.


    Tears brimmed in her eyes, blurring the vision of her shattered past, as a deep ache of despair settled in her heart, threatening to swallow her whole.


    She gritted, and accept it all.


    As the sense of redemption gradually returned, Athena managed to catch her breath, striving to regain control of her body. At that moment, she finally grasped what the system had proclaimed.


    [ Assessing¡­ ]


    However, the enormous shadow paid no heed to the dilapidated remains of the shelter nor the bear creature beside it- lifeless.


    Its gaze slowly shifted, eventually locking onto Athena. With great effort, she lifted her head, her eyes meeting those of the countless fearful figures surrounding her.


    At that moment, a glimmer of light illuminated the ruins, growing brighter as it burst forth from the stone walls.


    Charging through the darkness toward Athena was a rabbit.


    As Witty fell, it hurried forward, employing the massive bee wings to propel itself, then set off in search of Paopao.


    In its grasp, Witty clutched two items: one was the severely injured and unconscious Mikmik, and the other was Paopao, now reverted to its initial state.


    Of course, on its back sat Athena, reminiscent of how it had previously heaved large boulders. The stones obscured her petite form entirely.


    As the monster approached, it paid no further attention to them, shifting its focus to another destination as if nothing had happen.


    Athena was nearly compelled to spit out blood from its rough handling, yet she managed to swallow it down.


    A trace of amusement flickered within her.


    Fortune may have stripped her of her shelter, but at least she still possessed a single life.


    [ Assessment... ]


    [ Penalty mechanism postponed¡­ ]


    [ Special Mission: Contest of Peaks ]


    Proceed to the new battle zone.


    [ Adapting¡­ The teleportation array is now activating, having automatically consumed World Stone x2. ]


    Without so much as a query or an explanation, the system autonomously opted for the most favorable choice. A teleportation portal materialized abruptly before Witty, which, caught off guard, plunged headfirst into it.


    Alas, Athena was already gravely wounded, her mental faculties severely compromised as the system thrust her once more into this tumultuous vortex of the teleportation array.


    [ World Chat Channel ]


    053: ¡°Bloody hell, it seems the first thirty zones have been besieged by special-class monsters; they¡¯re practically all lost!¡±


    081: ¡°Hahaha! We¡¯re doomed! What sort of information has that guy shared? Battle zones, white ground, black ground-- what kind of foolishness is this? Does it mean we¡¯ll never see daylight again? Ahhh!¡±


    054: ¡°Flee? There¡¯s no chance of escape! That¡¯s not merely a monster; it¡¯s a powerful titan! Like a god! I can see it from here!¡±


    071: ¡°Thank goodness our zone is at the back; I¡¯m suddenly feeling that the monsters outside our shelter aren¡¯t so numerous after all.¡±


    076: ¡°Are we really to be trapped here for the rest of our lives?¡±


    Within this gloomy, oppressive, and utterly lightless prison, a nauseating stench permeated the air. Each breath seemed to envelop one in the stench of decaying corpses. The only source of protein in this wretched place was the myriad of writhing insects, crawling along the walls.


    The woman¡¯s hands were tightly shackled by a specially designed pair of manacles, crafted with the sole intention of preventing her escape.


    The cold, hard gleam of the cuffs cruelly bound her wrists, rendering her incapable of any free movement. Her legs were weighted down by heavy iron balls, making each step an arduous challenge, the dull thud of the iron against the floor mocking her helplessness.


    She lay in a dazed stupor as cockroaches crawled up her pant legs, oblivious to the subtle tremor of her lashes.


    Then, without warning, her long-closed eyes flew open, filled with an unfathomable malice and icy intent! She exhaled a cloud of foul air, extending her bloodied hands to seize the insects upon her.


    With a fierce grip, she crushed them effortlessly into a pulp, casting the remains aside without hesitation.


    Athena¡¯s first reaction upon awakening was to survey her surroundings.


    This was a prison, with a bed of straw beneath her. The wounds adorning her body had been crudely attended to; although the treatment was rather rough, it had been performed with a certain care.


    She rose to her feet, the iron balls colliding with the ground, producing a muted clang.


    Witty and the others were nowhere to be found, but judging by previous experiences with teleportation, they should be nearby-- she just didn¡¯t know how long she had been unconscious.


    She had attempted to unlock her restraints, only to find them expertly designed, capable of restraining even her.


    Could the system have sent her directly to a new battle zone? No, if that were the case, the first mission of the Contest of Peaks wouldn¡¯t involve proceeding to a battle zone.


    The places associated with her could not be the Sol Kingdom, as it had already been destroyed; it could only be the White Grand Empire.


    Gazing at the layers of shackles meant to confine her, she realized the truth. In her quest to complete the mission, she had obliterated the current ¡®heir¡¯ of this nation without a second thought, fully expecting to return.


    How ironic that fate had cast her as a mere prisoner. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Why had they not executed her outright but instead tended to her wounds? It appeared that the wealth of information cluttering her chamber was not entirely useless.


    Those old geezers, torn between the desire to execute her and the fear that she might have hidden connections capable of leaking vital secrets, had opted for a cautious approach. After all, among the documents were certainly sensitive matters.


    Having long controlled the darkest aspects of this empire, she had amassed a fortune. Who wouldn¡¯t feel trepidation? Who wouldn¡¯t be tempted?


    As long as Athena remained composed here, those old codgers would inevitably grow impatient and seek her out. Yet now, she was to be transported elsewhere, with no time to waste with them.


    While she contemplated how to contact them and devise a means to escape, a beam of light shone from outside her cell, accompanied by the sound of footsteps as a warden led someone into her midst.


    With an air of professionalism, her presence was marked by a sleek hairstyle, an ever-present notebook, and a steel pen affixed to her chest-- Yuris.


    Athena regarded her coldly. Given the woman¡¯s status, it was improbable that she had emerged unscathed from the aftermath of Athena''s incarceration. Her current radiant appearance suggested but one possibility.


    ¡°Prisoner No. 32, your execution is scheduled for tomorrow. Is there anything you wish to say?¡± Yuris inquired, her gaze unwavering.

 Chapter 160: Walking Out of Prison

    Chapter 160: Walking Out of Prison©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 160: Walking Out of Prison


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    Athena was hardly taken aback by the implications in her words. She was, at this point, in so much pain that she leaned against the wall for support.


    ¡°Is that so? Did you just decide this and inform me, or has it been announced nationwide already?¡± she inquired with a faint, dry tone.


    Yuris gestured to the jailer, who had been standing silently at the side, and with a deliberate pace, she stepped forward, opening the door to the cell.


    Upon seeing her attire, it was clear that Yuris had been promoted to the position of Deputy Director. Yet, the question remained- who had been appointed the Director? After all, the Eagle Claw Bureau could not function without a leader.


    ¡°It was merely Babron''s instruction for me to inform you,¡± Yuris said with measured calm. ¡°You may interpret it as you wish.¡±


    She stepped into the cell, her footsteps measured and assured. Her gaze lingered on the iron bars, and with a small jangle of keys, she selected an old-fashioned one from the bunch and unlocked the window. The dimly lit cell, deprived of sunlight for what seemed an eternity, finally saw a sliver of light.


    ¡°Well, after all, some explanation must be given to the public,¡± she murmured.


    Athena¡¯s voice carried a note of grim acceptance. ¡°This was indeed my mistake, wasn¡¯t it? I am more than willing to offer all my wealth, all my treasures and collections, and volunteer to be transferred to the frontlines, to the warzones. I am prepared to make my final contribution to the Empire.¡±


    At this, Yuris visibly flinched, a small tremor running through her hand as she turned her head, staring at Athena in surprise.


    She had not expected such an abrupt capitulation. It was wholly uncharacteristic of this person before her, whose temperament had always been far from malleable.


    But Athena was in no mood to engage in the petty power struggles of these elderly officials. She had a task to complete, and time was of the essence. She needed to reach the warzone and carry out her first mission with urgency.


    Had her past evaluations not reached an S rank, the system might have stripped her of all player capabilities. It was this ranking, however, that had triggered the special mission from the system- the only chance she had now.


    "I can pass along your message," Yuris replied, her tone neutral.


    Yet, she did not leave immediately. She simply stood across from Athena, gazing at her intently, as if waiting for something, or perhaps, for nothing at all. The silence stretched on, the atmosphere thick with unspoken tension and awkwardness.


    ¡°...¡± S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡°I am grateful for your guidance and the life you saved, but my loyalty will always lie with the Eagle Claw Bureau,¡± Yuris stated firmly, her eyes locking with Athena¡¯s, no hesitation in her gaze.


    Though she did not believe she had done anything wrong, a sense of guilt gnawed at her. It was this that motivated her to say these words. Even now, she could not fathom why her superior had made that sudden decision.


    Nevertheless, if Athena was truly willing to make this concession, the frontlines were in such a desperate state that the higher-ups would likely accept her offer without resistance.


    For reasons unknown, there had been explosive outbreaks across the entire front, and things were becoming tight all over. If Athena was willing to relinquish her amassed fortune and data, and offer herself as a prisoner to be sent to the warzone, drained of all her utility, that was precisely what they had hoped for.


    As for the public¡¯s perception, the official line would be that their Director, misled by some monstrous influence, had fallen to such a state. After all, how else could one explain such actions?


    Of course, the corrupt Director would still face the appropriate judgment and be sent to the frontlines. As for the prince, no objections would be raised on his end.


    Finally, as she had done before, Yuris gave Athena a standard bow, then exited the cell. She gestured to the doctor standing nearby, signaling that it was time for the medical treatment to begin.


    The doctor entered and began assessing Athena¡¯s injuries, moving with practiced care. After confirming the severity, she raised her right hand, palm glowing with a soft green light. This energy seeped into Athena¡¯s wounds, revitalizing them with a faint but undeniable life force.


    However, this treatment was far from gentle. It felt like being sliced slowly with a dull knife, each movement a fresh wave of agony.


    Athena gritted her teeth, enduring the pain in silence, her eyes fixed on the doctor¡¯s busy form. She knew that if she was to face the upcoming trials, recovery was crucial.


    When the treatment finally ended, Athena could feel her condition improve, but only partially. The worst of her injuries had been tended to, preventing permanent disability, but she was far from restored to full combat readiness.


    She tested her limbs, finding some lingering pain but enough mobility to move freely. The healing had been precisely calibrated- not enough to restore her battle capacity, but just enough to allow her to function.


    After her bandages were changed, the doctor left, and the jailer returned to lock the door again.


    Athena was still confined to her cell, but now, for the first time, there was a window through which she could glimpse the outside world.


    Not long after, the jailer returned once more, this time under the guise of secrecy. He held a meal, a blanket, a chair, and a water cup- essentially, everything that could be found in the vicinity was brought in for her.


    He opened the door once more, though it was against protocol, and placed everything neatly beside Athena. Then, he gave her an expression that was more pitiful than sorrowful, offering a low, awkward bow before stepping back out of the cell.


    With the chair now at her disposal, Athena no longer saw any reason to remain seated on the sparse straw bedding.


    She knew that in a matter of hours- two at most- she would be released. The time would be sufficient for a short nap.


    Witty was equipped with both a small turret and massive bee wings, rendering it more than capable of carrying out operations. Once she was freed, Witty and the others would likely make their move. The bear grass ball, Paopao had the worst injuries, and conventional treatment wouldn¡¯t suffice to heal it.


    Athena did not touch her food. Instead, she leaned back in the chair, closing her eyes, resting her mind. Hours passed, and then, outside, a commotion broke the quiet. The door to the cell creaked open.


    ¡°We meet again,¡± a familiar voice echoed, and Athena opened her eyes to find Carter standing there.


    ¡°It seems you¡¯ve made your decision,¡± Carter said calmly.


    ¡°The higher-ups have approved your request. You are free now, and...,¡± he paused, ¡°You are not being sent as a prisoner but as the leader of a special operations team, deployed to the frontlines. Rest assured, your team members have been carefully chosen.¡±


    Athena¡¯s eyes widened in surprise for a brief moment, but the shock quickly passed, replaced by composure.


    She had not expected Carter to still be alive. He appeared more mature now, though life had not likely been kind to him.


    After all, his earlier foolishness and recklessness had been of use at times, and his own strength was nothing to scoff at.


    ¡°I will do my best,¡± she said as she rose, stretching her limbs.


    Though she had been given this position, she suspected the team would consist of condemned criminals and other troublesome individuals- likely a last-ditch effort to assign her some troublesome tasks.


    ¡°Good. Your gear and team will be waiting for you at the base,¡± Carter said, nodding.


    The jailer, upon Carter¡¯s signal, rushed over and hastily unlocked her shackles.


    The heavy chains clattered to the floor with a dull thud, the noise startling the insects scattered around the cell. They scurried away in panic, vanishing in a flash.

 Chapter 161: Departure

    Chapter 161: Departure©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 161: Departure


    ©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¿?( ¡Þ )?©»©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    As they walked along the passage, not a single other prisoner was seen. The entire prison seemed deserted, with hardly a few cells to be found.


    It appeared that this was a facility designed for holding a very specific kind of individual- a rather special group, if one will. How fortunate.


    They proceeded down the long, dimly lit corridor, and the heavy iron gates were opened, revealing a fortress-like exterior guarded by stern sentries.


    Carter had been walking behind Athena, but now he had moved alongside her.


    "We¡¯ll need to wait for the others. They''ll be here soon," Carter said, his words laced with barely contained frustration, which he made an obvious effort to suppress.


    Such haste. It seemed those others were just as eager to leave, likely fearing the complications that could arise the longer they tarried.


    We? It seemed Carter had been left behind once again, which explained his current anger.


    A communications officer approached at this moment, giving Carter a nod before, to his disbelief, addressing Athena directly, ¡°Please, Chief, come with us. It¡¯s time to prepare your belongings.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Carter¡¯s eyes widened in astonishment. ¡°You¡¯ve got to be mistaken! I¡¯m the one in charge of this operation!¡±


    The officer regarded him with an impassive gaze, then stated flatly, ¡°This is an order from above. Please don¡¯t make things difficult.¡±


    Carter immediately fell silent, an apology on his lips as he realized there was no point in arguing. He had no desire to return to that place again.


    Athena followed the officer as they departed. Carter stood rooted to the spot, a heavy weight pressing upon him as he mulled over his next move. He glanced towards where Athena was being led, wondering exactly where she was going.


    If it weren¡¯t for his family still needing him, for the sake of his own pride, he would have long since chosen to end it all. They said he was here to keep an eye on Athena, but who could truly say what might transpire along this path?


    He had never despised his own nature so much as he did at this moment. Had he been a little more astute, perhaps a little sharper, his fate might have been quite different.


    Athena glanced at the large, conspicuous group surrounding her and nodded.


    ¡°Please, Mr. Carter, wait until the team is assembled. Then, make your way to the city gates and await further instructions.¡±


    ¡°¡­Yes.¡±


    Such a spectacle in escorting her- it was as if they were announcing to those watching in the shadows that she was not in danger. Packing up her belongings was a matter of formality, really- a means to have her personal items transferred into their custody.


    The group acted much like they were escorting a prisoner, though in truth, Athena did indeed find herself in the role of one.


    The crowd that passed by regarded her with hushed whispers, their conversations constrained by the presence of the stern guards. Even the usual chatter was suppressed by the weight of her reputation.


    The journey was uneventful, though it seemed that the usual carriage stationed outside had been removed. They instead led her directly into the Eagle Claw Bureau, where it was conspicuously empty.


    It seemed that Yuris had taken the rest of the staff on a mission. What had occurred, she couldn¡¯t be sure.


    Once inside her office, it was clear that nothing had changed. Everything remained just as it had been- exactly as she left it. Even the stack of documents she had carelessly placed on the desk before her departure had not been moved an inch.


    The men brought in a large stack of files and placed them before her- documents relating to properties and financial transfers, all requiring her signature.


    Without hesitation, she took up the pen and signed her name with a swift, fluid motion.


    One of the men, wearing white gloves, neatly arranged the papers before pushing up his glasses. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡°All done, now, please, Madam Athena, open the hidden door.¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    These men surely didn¡¯t believe there was some form of security mechanism they were too afraid to touch, did they? Sometimes, those at the top made things far more complicated than they needed to be.


    She understood their caution, though; after all, to the outside world, she was considered something of a madwoman. Who would leave a room such as this unsecured?


    With little fanfare, she opened the concealed door before them, leading them into a small chamber. She watched as they meticulously carried her things out one by one.


    As Athena surveyed the tiny room, a wave of nostalgia crept over her. It was strange, seeing everything emptied. This was the first room she¡¯d entered, and it would be the last one she left.


    As everything she worked hard so far has gone away.


    The room was soon completely cleared, and she was instructed to be the last one to leave. Standing at the door was one of the men, waiting for her.


    He had been standing there for a long while, watching her closely. When it became apparent that she was neither going to take anything nor say anything, he asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you need to contact anyone to let them know you¡¯re still alive?¡±


    His words were well-spoken, but she saw them for what they were- nothing more than a hollow courtesy.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to. They only need to know I¡¯m still breathing.¡± Athena rubbed her sore wrist, the injury still not fully healed. Yet, picking up the Black Abyss Axe, which lay nearby, was no trouble at all.


    Having confirmed that Athena had no other actions in mind, the man said, ¡°Chief Athena, please, follow me.¡±


    She nodded in acknowledgment and followed him out of the Eagle Claw Bureau.


    They made their way to the city gates, which, though usually quiet and deserted, were now teeming with people.


    It wasn¡¯t long before she spotted an old acquaintance- Babron.


    If the Babron she had last seen had been a bold and ambitious schemer, this version of him seemed to have aged prematurely, his once-proud demeanor now giving way to a more wearied, drained expression.


    Athena did not believe for a moment that his current state was the result of living too luxuriously after vanquishing a great foe.


    No, after all, he had invited the wolf into his den- one disguised in sheep¡¯s clothing. After eliminating external threats, internal strife was inevitable.


    So, she had assumed Babron would avoid meeting her, yet here he was, making the long journey to see her personally.


    He still held his black cane, though it was notably lacking the gem that had once adorned its top.


    Upon seeing Athena, he broke into a wide grin, the people accompanying him following suit in a wave of laughter.


    They showed no care for her expression or the weight of her gaze.


    ¡°Chief Athena, your willingness to go to the frontlines in such a time of national crisis is truly admirable!¡±


    ¡°But the road to get there may not be so peaceful. Please, do take care!¡±


    If one were unaware, they might have thought that Athena and Babron were old friends.


    Athena could already predict the headlines in tomorrow¡¯s newspapers. She didn¡¯t need to see them to know what they would say.


    After all, this wasn¡¯t the first time such a scene had unfolded. The surrounding reporters were numerous, and the crowd watching the spectacle was no small group.


    Babron was quite adept at manipulating public opinion.


    But all of that was hardly the reason for his personal visit. As he handed her a set of official documents and armor, he also offered a small object- an exquisitely crafted trinket, bearing the imperial seal of the White Grand Empire.


    Athena accepted it without hesitation, aware that it would bring with it some reliable new allies as well as crucial paperwork.


    With the farcical farewell ceremony concluded, Athena¡¯s group, now a total of fifteen, finally set off.

 Chapter 162: Journey to the Frontlines

    Chapter 162: Journey to the Frontlines©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 162: Journey to the Frontlines


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    Naturally, each city within the White Grand Empire possesses a teleportation array. However, there are no teleportation arrays set up between the imperial capital and the other cities. This precaution is in place to prevent monsters from exploiting these arrays to launch direct attacks on the capital, as well as to thwart any ill-intentioned individuals with ulterior motives.


    The only teleportation arrays available are those under the sole control of the royal family, and of course, such resources are not something someone like Athena would ever be permitted to use.


    The good news, however, is that the nearest town is only a day¡¯s journey away. If they travel quickly, they should reach it within a day. From there, they can pass through multiple teleportation points to reach the frontlines.


    Athena¡¯s group consists of two guards from Babron, one from Carter, and the rest are major criminals on death row.


    ¡°Aaaah! Why aren¡¯t we moving faster?¡± one large man shouted. Clad in a prisoner''s garb, he was a hulking figure, his strength unmistakable. His hands gripped a massive hammer.


    His face twisted with anger as he shot an irritated glance at Athena.


    ¡°A woman who¡¯s wounded? Ha! I could turn you into pulp with one swing of my hammer! Hahahaha!¡± The bald, muscular man burst into laughter, as though he had already imagined the scene in his head.


    The others remained still, seemingly unfazed by the situation. They had spent years confined to a dungeon and were curious to see what exactly made Athena worthy of leading them.


    They had three days to reach the war zone, and the less time they spent on the road, the better. These men were trouble, otherwise, she would not have been assigned to handle them.


    Not only were they criminals, but this assignment also entangled them in the interests of the major families, making the situation even more complicated and difficult to handle.


    But Athena had no intention of indulging them. She had been instructed to take them to the frontlines- not to babysit them until they arrived.


    Suddenly, the man¡¯s boisterous laughter cut off abruptly, as though someone had choked him. His face contorted with disbelief as Athena, like a phantom, appeared in front of him, her speed so swift that he had no time to react.


    In the blink of an eye, Athena struck. With precise, calculated movements, she seized the man¡¯s hands, which were still gripping the hammer.


    With a sharp crack, his wrist joint was easily dislocated, and the massive hammer slipped from his grasp, falling to the ground with a loud thud, sending up a cloud of dust. The man groaned in pain, his body trembling uncontrollably.


    He stared at Athena, his eyes wide with fear. His heart raced with terror. This was no mere opponent- Athena could kill him in the blink of an eye if she so desired.


    An old man with a head full of grey hair and a hunched back stepped forward. His teeth had long since fallen out, and his voice was weak, almost breathless.


    ¡°Captain, this big fellow might still be useful. Don¡¯t kill him.¡±


    Athena had no intention of killing him. It was merely a lesson, a show of force.


    The bald, muscle-bound man trembled, his body shaking in fear. He tried to move his arms, but there was no sensation. He was completely powerless.


    The rest of the prisoners stood frozen, shocked by the suddenness of Athena¡¯s actions. Without a word, she picked up the fallen hammer, stowed it in her spatial bag, and continued walking.


    It was no different from snatching something from under someone¡¯s nose, yet no one dared to speak up.


    ¡°Move quickly,¡± she commanded coldly, glancing back at the others, signaling them to hurry up.


    The men had been sent to accompany her, but curiously, no horses or means of transportation had been provided for their journey.


    They hurriedly caught up, the disarmed bald man trailing behind. With Athena¡¯s approval, the old man began to heal the man¡¯s wrists, using a gentle green light to restore them.


    The bald man, still wincing, watched in disbelief as the old man¡¯s healing powers took effect. He had not expected to encounter a healer here.


    Once healed, the muscular man silently walked at the rear, no longer daring to ask Athena for his hammer back.


    As they traversed the vast forest, they noticed something odd: there were no wild beasts in sight, no attacks, despite the fact that they had been traveling for hours. It was as though the creatures deliberately avoided them, which naturally raised suspicions.


    Could it be that their numbers alone were enough to ward off danger?


    While the others may not have known the reason, Athena was well aware. The truth was, the small creature, Witty, had been following them for some time.


    Witty, too cautious to approach, had remained hidden until it saw Athena deal with the muscular man. Only then did the little creature feel assured that its leader was not in danger.


    Witty emerged from the grass, its white fur gleaming in the sunlight. The group was initially startled, but when they realized it was just a rabbit, they relaxed, lowering their guard.


    To their amazement, the rabbit hopped towards Athena, leaping into her arms as she embraced it affectionately. Witty, content in her embrace, nestled against her, its soft fur comforting as they continued their journey.


    As they pressed on, Witty led Athena to the others- Mikmik and Paopao. And so, a rather unsettling scene unfolded. The infamous ¡®demon¡¯ was surrounded by animals, unknowingly drawing the attention of those nearby.


    ...


    [ Regional Chat Channel ]


    ¡°The people are all dead? No? At least make some noise then.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not dead yet, but it¡¯s only a matter of time.¡±


    ¡°Even if we survive, most of us are now wandering players, so we won¡¯t be able to access some features.¡±


    ¡°Have you all accepted the quest?¡±


    ¡°I knew it. Not all of us are on the same quest, are we?¡±


    In almost thirty regions, disasters struck simultaneously. Half of the players became wandering players, while a select few- around a thousand- had taken on quests related to the war zone.


    Each quest was different, each teleportation point unique, yet all of them inevitably led to the frontlines.


    A man with long hair and a black-clad companion were back to back, having been teleported here a day ago.


    While confined to their room, they counted the misfortunes that had befallen them these past days.


    ¡°Wow, can those monsters even be dealt with by mere humans?¡±


    ¡°Although the shelter mysteriously disappeared, at least we survived.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s a fortunate misfortune. We almost became wandering players.¡± S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡°Ah, I wonder if we¡¯ll encounter any other players. What is this absurd quest, anyway? Do we have to fight for a mountain top?¡±


    Ebony Veil grumbled, still irritated by the ordeal. He had barely escaped Athena¡¯s wrath, and just when he thought they could wait out the night and survive until morning, they were inexplicably dragged into an illusion.


    When they opened their eyes again, the shelter, once thousands of kilometers away, was gone- destroyed by the system. They were now on the brink of becoming wandering players.


    The twists of fate led them here, and now they were nothing but expendable pawns in the system¡¯s grand scheme. Forced into the role of meat shields, they had no choice but to follow the quest.


    With no shelter left, they were stranded, vulnerable, and bound to a dangerous mission- becoming little more than cannon fodder for the system.

 Chapter 168: Entering the City

    Chapter 168: Entering the City©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 168: Entering the City


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    The city gate guards, sitting atop their watchful posts, appeared unusually wary. The ragtag group of individuals approaching not only bore grim expressions, but also wore the unmistakable attire of prisoners.


    Given their appearance, it was hard not to suspect that they might have escaped from some distant prison. Upon closer inspection, the figure of a swordsman and one donned in military garb stood out.


    The guard quickly motioned for his companion to alert the captain, while he stayed stationed at his post.


    "Halt!" he bellowed, his voice strong and commanding, his eyes narrowing in an attempt to intimidate the approaching figures- Athena and her companions.


    His throat felt tight, and a cold sweat began to form as a wave of nervousness gripped him. "Did you hear me? I said stop!"


    Athena, standing some distance away, calmly presented her official documents. The golden seal on the papers was clearly visible even from afar, glowing with unmistakable authority.


    "Prisoners? Escorting criminals?" The guard furrowed his brows in confusion. There had been no prior notice about this. He was taken aback, his mind racing to understand the situation.


    As he waited for them to approach, the captain came hurrying out, his clothes disheveled, reeking of alcohol.


    Athena stepped forward, signaling to the others to remain still. She handed the captain her documents, offering them with a calm but determined gesture.


    Despite the captain¡¯s disheveled appearance, the seal on the document caused a flicker of clarity in his hazy mind.


    "From the Imperial Capital?" He glanced at the papers briefly, then gestured dismissively. "Fine, fine. Get on with it!"


    His tone was dismissive and impatient, clearly uninterested in the matter. After a cursory glance, he seemed to understand enough of the situation: a group of hardened criminals were being sent to the frontlines as expendable cannon fodder. He found the whole affair perplexing. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A troublesome bunch of lowlifes... "Ugh, whatever," he muttered. "Don¡¯t dawdle. Head straight for the teleportation array!" He waved his hand dismissively, clearly eager to rid himself of the responsibility.


    The guards behind him were visibly annoyed by his careless manner. A few even wanted to slap the captain into sobriety, but seeing Athena¡¯s composed demeanor, they held back. She collected her documents and walked past him without a second thought, and the prisoners followed in silent compliance.


    The city captain¡¯s gaze lingered on the group, and his eyes locked onto one female prisoner. Her figure- well, it was hard not to stare.


    But the glare he received from the woman made him shiver. His heart raced, a mixture of guilt and anger coursing through him.


    "What are you staring at?" he growled, standing straighter in an attempt to assert some authority. "Keep your eyes to yourselves, or I¡¯ll gouge them out! A criminal should look like one!"


    To his surprise, the bald, burly prisoner behind him flashed a grin- a terrifying, unsettling smile. The captain¡¯s body, still heavy with alcohol, nearly collapsed under the sudden fear. He swayed, his knees buckling, only to be saved by another guard nearby.


    It wasn¡¯t until Athena and her group had passed by that the captain finally wrenched himself free from his supporting guard, cursing under his breath.


    "A bunch of mad dogs... Don¡¯t let me see you again!" he spat, fury in his eyes.


    The passersby had assumed Athena and her group would be stopped at the gates, but to their shock, the captain simply waved them through without hesitation, not even sending anyone after them.


    One mother, muttering angrily about the incompetence of the guards, hurried her child along, eager to reach home.


    But in her haste, she tugged too hard, and her child stumbled, falling to the ground.


    Athena quickly stepped forward and helped the child to his feet.


    The mother, panicked, reached for her child, attempting to pull him back, her voice shaking as she managed a forced, "Thank you."


    But Athena¡¯s grip was like iron. The mother, despite her frantic efforts, couldn¡¯t budge. Fear started to rise in her chest as she realized the strange strength of the woman before her. She was uncomfortable, her anxiety heightening, but she forced herself to remain composed.


    "I... I don''t know what to call you," the mother stammered, not sure how to address her benefactor.


    "Don¡¯t worry," Athena reassured her, her smile softening. "I was just wondering, where is the city¡¯s teleportation array?"


    Seeing the mother¡¯s panic, Athena loosened her grip slightly. The woman managed to pull her child away, exhaling a deep breath of relief.


    "Oh, it¡¯s just straight down this road, then turn left at the square. You''ll see it soon enough," the mother explained, her voice now noticeably faster, a sense of urgency creeping into her words.


    Just as she turned to leave, pulling her child along, Athena stopped her once more.


    With a gentle smile, she asked, "And where might I find a good restaurant nearby?"


    After all this time on the road, it would be nice to get a proper meal. She still had enough money to eat well for several days.


    The mother, startled by the request, could hardly believe it. These people- still hungry after all that? Were they planning to stay the night?


    "Keep going straight, and you¡¯ll see a big red sign- it¡¯s called ¡®Moza Rello.¡¯ Their food¡¯s the best around here," the mother replied quickly, eager to be rid of the group.


    At last, Athena smiled and nodded, releasing the woman to her relief. The mother snatched up her child and rushed off, muttering to herself as she went.


    Athena watched them go, wondering why the woman seemed so frightened of her. She had been calm and polite, yet the woman had reacted as though she were a monster. It reminded her of her time in the Sol Kingdom, where people had treated her with more sympathy, even thinking she was fragile.


    She shook her head. How odd.


    Turning to her companions, she called, "Stay close. Don¡¯t wander off."


    The group gathered behind her, nodding in agreement. The burly bald man, who had been the most intimidating of them all, now appeared to shrink back in discomfort.


    A small creature, a sprite of sorts, flitted back to her shoulder, chirping happily as it nestled into place.


    At the same time, inside the city, the scene shifted. Someone had just returned to their quarters and, barely inside, stepped on something sharp. Letting out a yelp of pain, they looked down to see a spiky fruit underfoot.


    Cursing under their breath, they angrily threw it out the window, only to sit down- and immediately land on something else sharp.


    "Ah!"


    Among the prisoners, a woman with untidy hair concealed her face, but her figure- still graceful despite the ragged appearance- did not go unnoticed. Her hands, caked with dirt, moved in strange gestures, as if performing some silent ritual. Her lips moved in constant motion, her voice almost imperceptible.


    "Strange," she murmured softly, her fate already intertwined with misfortune. What was going on? She hadn''t even moved yet.

 Chapter 163: Entering the City

    Chapter 163: Entering the City©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 163: Entering the City


    ©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¿?( ¡Þ )?©»©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    The city gate guards, sitting atop their watchful posts, appeared unusually wary. The ragtag group of individuals approaching not only bore grim expressions, but also wore the unmistakable attire of prisoners.


    Given their appearance, it was hard not to suspect that they might have escaped from some distant prison. Upon closer inspection, the figure of a swordsman and one donned in military garb stood out.


    The guard quickly motioned for his companion to alert the captain, while he stayed stationed at his post.


    "Halt!" he bellowed, his voice strong and commanding, his eyes narrowing in an attempt to intimidate the approaching figures- Athena and her companions.


    His throat felt tight, and a cold sweat began to form as a wave of nervousness gripped him. "Did you hear me? I said stop!"


    Athena, standing some distance away, calmly presented her official documents. The golden seal on the papers was clearly visible even from afar, glowing with unmistakable authority.


    "Prisoners? Escorting criminals?" The guard furrowed his brows in confusion. There had been no prior notice about this. He was taken aback, his mind racing to understand the situation.


    As he waited for them to approach, the captain came hurrying out, his clothes disheveled, reeking of alcohol.


    Athena stepped forward, signaling to the others to remain still. She handed the captain her documents, offering them with a calm but determined gesture.


    Despite the captain¡¯s disheveled appearance, the seal on the document caused a flicker of clarity in his hazy mind.


    "From the Imperial Capital?" He glanced at the papers briefly, then gestured dismissively. "Fine, fine. Get on with it!"


    His tone was dismissive and impatient, clearly uninterested in the matter. After a cursory glance, he seemed to understand enough of the situation: a group of hardened criminals were being sent to the frontlines as expendable cannon fodder. He found the whole affair perplexing.


    A troublesome bunch of lowlifes... "Ugh, whatever," he muttered. "Don¡¯t dawdle. Head straight for the teleportation array!" He waved his hand dismissively, clearly eager to rid himself of the responsibility.


    The guards behind him were visibly annoyed by his careless manner. A few even wanted to slap the captain into sobriety, but seeing Athena¡¯s composed demeanor, they held back. She collected her documents and walked past him without a second thought, and the prisoners followed in silent compliance.


    The city captain¡¯s gaze lingered on the group, and his eyes locked onto one female prisoner. Her figure- well, it was hard not to stare.


    But the glare he received from the woman made him shiver. His heart raced, a mixture of guilt and anger coursing through him.


    "What are you staring at?" he growled, standing straighter in an attempt to assert some authority. "Keep your eyes to yourselves, or I¡¯ll gouge them out! A criminal should look like one!"


    To his surprise, the bald, burly prisoner behind him flashed a grin- a terrifying, unsettling smile. The captain¡¯s body, still heavy with alcohol, nearly collapsed under the sudden fear. He swayed, his knees buckling, only to be saved by another guard nearby.


    It wasn¡¯t until Athena and her group had passed by that the captain finally wrenched himself free from his supporting guard, cursing under his breath.


    "A bunch of mad dogs... Don¡¯t let me see you again!" he spat, fury in his eyes.


    The passersby had assumed Athena and her group would be stopped at the gates, but to their shock, the captain simply waved them through without hesitation, not even sending anyone after them. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    One mother, muttering angrily about the incompetence of the guards, hurried her child along, eager to reach home.


    But in her haste, she tugged too hard, and her child stumbled, falling to the ground.


    Athena quickly stepped forward and helped the child to his feet.


    The mother, panicked, reached for her child, attempting to pull him back, her voice shaking as she managed a forced, "Thank you."


    But Athena¡¯s grip was like iron. The mother, despite her frantic efforts, couldn¡¯t budge. Fear started to rise in her chest as she realized the strange strength of the woman before her. She was uncomfortable, her anxiety heightening, but she forced herself to remain composed.


    "I... I don''t know what to call you," the mother stammered, not sure how to address her benefactor.


    "Don¡¯t worry," Athena reassured her, her smile softening. "I was just wondering, where is the city¡¯s teleportation array?"


    Seeing the mother¡¯s panic, Athena loosened her grip slightly. The woman managed to pull her child away, exhaling a deep breath of relief.


    "Oh, it¡¯s just straight down this road, then turn left at the square. You''ll see it soon enough," the mother explained, her voice now noticeably faster, a sense of urgency creeping into her words.


    Just as she turned to leave, pulling her child along, Athena stopped her once more.


    With a gentle smile, she asked, "And where might I find a good restaurant nearby?"


    After all this time on the road, it would be nice to get a proper meal. She still had enough money to eat well for several days.


    The mother, startled by the request, could hardly believe it. These people- still hungry after all that? Were they planning to stay the night?


    "Keep going straight, and you¡¯ll see a big red sign- it¡¯s called ¡®Moza Rello.¡¯ Their food¡¯s the best around here," the mother replied quickly, eager to be rid of the group.


    At last, Athena smiled and nodded, releasing the woman to her relief. The mother snatched up her child and rushed off, muttering to herself as she went.


    Athena watched them go, wondering why the woman seemed so frightened of her. She had been calm and polite, yet the woman had reacted as though she were a monster. It reminded her of her time in the Sol Kingdom, where people had treated her with more sympathy, even thinking she was fragile.


    She shook her head. How odd.


    Turning to her companions, she called, "Stay close. Don¡¯t wander off."


    The group gathered behind her, nodding in agreement. The burly bald man, who had been the most intimidating of them all, now appeared to shrink back in discomfort.


    A small creature, a sprite of sorts, flitted back to her shoulder, chirping happily as it nestled into place.


    At the same time, inside the city, the scene shifted. Someone had just returned to their quarters and, barely inside, stepped on something sharp. Letting out a yelp of pain, they looked down to see a spiky fruit underfoot.


    Cursing under their breath, they angrily threw it out the window, only to sit down- and immediately land on something else sharp.


    "Ah!"


    Among the prisoners, a woman with untidy hair concealed her face, but her figure- still graceful despite the ragged appearance- did not go unnoticed. Her hands, caked with dirt, moved in strange gestures, as if performing some silent ritual. Her lips moved in constant motion, her voice almost imperceptible.


    "Strange," she murmured softly, her fate already intertwined with misfortune. What was going on? She hadn''t even moved yet.

 Chapter 164: Feasts Of Bandits

    Chapter 164: Feasts Of Bandits©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 164: Feasts Of Bandits


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    The streets seemed to part as Athena and her group strode forward. Not a word needed to be uttered; the crowd instinctively gave them a wide berth, leaving an open path as if nature itself obeyed an unspoken command.


    As foretold by the woman they encountered earlier, a grand crimson sign soon came into view- a beacon of opulence towering above its surroundings. Lavishly adorned and shimmering in gold, it stood a level higher than anything nearby, making it impossible to overlook.


    At the entrance, a cluster of smartly dressed attendants were stationed, ready to greet guests. However, the arrival of Athena¡¯s party caused a visible ripple of unease. Their unusual attire, coupled with their commanding presence, made them impossible to ignore.


    One brave soul among the staff stepped forward, determination faltering as he attempted to intercept them.


    Before he could speak, a graceful figure emerged from within the establishment- a woman dressed in regal splendor, her every gesture exuding poise. Her well-maintained features were complemented by a gentle smile, and her soft gaze seemed to diffuse the tension at the door.


    ¡°What seems to be the matter?¡± she inquired in a calm, melodious voice, each word steeped in refinement.


    The attendant, momentarily thrown off balance, quickly composed himself. Bowing slightly, he explained, ¡°Madam, these... individuals wish to enter. However, their attire- ¡± He faltered, his voice trailing off as he glanced at the group again. Clearly, he found them lacking the decorum expected of patrons here.


    The implication hung in the air: they looked more like troublemakers than diners.


    The elegant woman, however, merely shook her head with a serene smile. ¡°It¡¯s no issue,¡± she said, her tone unwavering. ¡°Let them in.¡±


    Turning to Athena and her entourage, she added warmly, ¡°Please forgive my staff¡¯s inexperience. Do come in.¡±


    With that, she pivoted on her heel, her figure gliding effortlessly as she led the way back into the establishment.


    The hesitant attendant hesitated no longer, stepping aside and holding the door open with newfound enthusiasm, motioning for them to enter.


    ...


    Athena cast a fleeting glance at the sign and hesitated. A place as extravagant as this was bound to attract trouble, either in the form of unwelcome scrutiny or an exorbitant bill. She wasn¡¯t particularly inclined to stay. But a fleeting glimpse of an emblem- a family crest intricately embossed on the entrance- made her pause.


    The Babron family.


    A spark of curiosity ignited within her. Without a word, she led her group inside.


    ...


    The interior of the establishment was a study in contrasts. Though the exterior screamed flamboyance, the decor inside was understated yet undeniably elegant. Every detail whispered of aristocratic taste: paintings graced the walls, soft carpets muffled their footsteps, and the furnishings were arranged with meticulous precision.


    Despite their unseemly appearance, none of the other diners reacted with hostility. In fact, a few cast meaningful, almost knowing glances their way, as though entertained by the sight.


    The woman herself personally escorted them to a private room, gesturing politely for them to be seated before withdrawing to a nearby sofa. There, she perched gracefully, her silence respectful yet ever watchful.


    ...


    Athena scanned the menu briefly before ordering a modest selection of dishes- just enough to feed herself and the three younger members of her group. She made her choices swiftly, handed the menu back to the waiting staff, and leaned back, her demeanor casual yet alert.


    However, when the dishes began arriving, it quickly became evident that someone had altered her order.


    The table was soon laden with an overwhelming spread of delicacies, far exceeding what she had requested. The plates, each a masterpiece of culinary artistry, glistened with vibrant colors and meticulous presentation. The sheer variety and quantity transformed the round table into a feast fit for royalty.


    Athena glanced sharply at the woman seated on the sofa. The latter responded with a polite smile, as if entirely unaware of any impropriety.


    But before she could speak, Athena shrugged off the matter and picked up her chopsticks, plucking a drumstick from the nearest platter. ¡°Might as well eat,¡± she muttered, digging in with deliberate nonchalance.


    Her companions followed suit, diving into the meal with ravenous enthusiasm. The room quickly descended into chaos, with dishes being passed, clattered, and nearly overturned in the frenzy. It was a scene more befitting a band of starving bandits than dignified guests.


    The woman¡¯s composure faltered ever so slightly, her smile twitching at the edges. Still, she said nothing, unwilling to interrupt. It wasn¡¯t until they finished that she gracefully rose, re-entering the room with several attendants to clear the table. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    As the dishes were being removed, the woman opened her mouth to speak- only to be preempted by a loud cough from Athena¡¯s group.


    An elderly man in their midst, who moments earlier had been a meek and quiet presence, slammed his hand against the table. Rising to his feet, he jabbed a finger toward her.


    ¡°What kind of service is this?¡± he bellowed, voice dripping with indignation. ¡°Look at these dishes! Are these what we ordered? And you- you dare to start clearing the table before we¡¯ve even finished? Do you think you can just shoo us out like common riffraff?¡±


    The attendants froze mid-motion, caught between their duties and the tirade. All eyes turned to the woman, who remained as still as a porcelain statue, her gaze cool but unyielding.


    ¡°Enough of this farce!¡± she snapped, her voice losing its earlier veneer of warmth. ¡°Did you truly think you could eat without paying? Consider yourselves warned- do not mistake our hospitality for weakness.¡±


    Her change in tone was like a crack of thunder, and the air grew tense. The attendants stepped back, their movements hesitant as her entourage began to close ranks behind her.


    Athena leaned back in her chair, a faint smirk tugging at her lips. ¡°We didn¡¯t plan on skipping out. If you¡¯d simply served what we ordered, none of this would¡¯ve been necessary. But since you¡¯ve gone out of your way to make this complicated, well...¡± She gestured dismissively.


    The woman¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Ruffians like you shouldn¡¯t even set foot in this city. Do you truly think you can come and go as you please?¡±


    Her words were met with laughter from Athena¡¯s group, low and mocking.


    ¡°Madam,¡± Athena said, her voice icy, ¡°if you think you can keep us here, you¡¯re welcome to try. But let me warn you- there¡¯s only one way this ends, and it won¡¯t be in your favor.¡±


    The air crackled with unspoken tension as both sides prepared for the inevitable clash. In this gilded palace, it was no longer a matter of who held the upper hand, but how swiftly the tables would turn.

 Chapter 165: The Kidnapping Of The Mistress

    Chapter 165: The Kidnapping Of The Mistress©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 165: The Kidnapping Of The Mistress


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    The elegant woman before them stood with unshaken poise, her composure undisturbed by the sight of Athena and her group. She seemed utterly unimpressed, even with their numbers. A dozen men? She had faced far greater assemblies before, and this was hardly enough to faze her.


    Slowly, she raised her hand, her slender fingers idly stroking the intricate ring on her finger.


    ¡°Having enjoyed my hospitality, shouldn¡¯t you settle your debts?¡± she inquired with a honeyed tone, her gaze roving over Athena and her companions like a merchant assessing livestock. ¡°You¡¯re all strong and capable, so perhaps you could stay and repay me... gradually.¡± Her smile was laced with irony as she continued to study them, gauging their worth.


    To her, they were mere nobodies. If they had been of importance, word would have reached her in advance. This group bore the telltale signs of outsiders, likely outcasts with no critical purpose. If she could squeeze something out of them, she would.


    Athena, standing at the forefront, studied the woman just as intently. Her brazen demeanor hinted at a position of power, or at least wealth. The lavish surroundings certainly suggested as much. Wealthy people had networks, and those networks could prove useful- especially in the cities ahead.


    ¡°Madam, I¡¯m afraid we¡¯ll have to trouble you to come with us,¡± Athena said with a calm authority. She reached into her bag and withdrew a document, flipping it open just enough for the seal to flash under the light. The crest of the Babron family shimmered briefly before the woman¡¯s eyes.


    The woman¡¯s glance was fleeting but enough to confirm the seal¡¯s authenticity. She knew the Babron crest well. However, her instinct told her this was no official matter. Why would they mention such a thing now, out of nowhere? The timing was far too suspicious.


    Raising her hand, she moved to demand the document for closer inspection, but before she could utter a word, Athena moved. Her step was swift and precise, closing the distance in an instant as she reached to restrain the woman.


    The sudden motion threw the guards and attendants into a frenzy. Weapons were drawn, and chaos broke out as Athena¡¯s prisoners, sensing an opportunity, leapt into the fray.


    Blades clashed, and the air filled with the sharp cries of combat. The woman¡¯s guards, though well-trained, struggled to match the ferocity of the prisoners. These were no ordinary criminals- they were once influential figures, shadowy operators, or dangerous players in their respective spheres.


    Each had been cast out, their pasts too troublesome to resolve cleanly. For them, the battlefield wasn¡¯t just a punishment; it was a chance to reclaim their former glory.


    The battle escalated quickly, and as blood was drawn, some among the prisoners lost themselves in their primal instincts. One gaunt man, his eyes wild with mania, fought with terrifying zeal. Laughing maniacally, he lunged at a guard, his bony hands wrapping around the man¡¯s throat in a deadly grip.


    ¡°No killing!¡± Athena¡¯s sharp command cut through the chaos. She had no intention of escalating matters to a point of no return. A scuffle was one thing, but bloodshed invited unnecessary complications.


    Her words were barely heard as she advanced toward the woman, who watched her approach with a confident smirk. The woman¡¯s eyes gleamed with an air of superiority, certain that she could handle this interloper in a matter of moments.


    However, the first strike she threw was met with an unyielding resistance. Her arm recoiled sharply, the force of impact sending a jarring shock up her arm. Before she could recover, Athena¡¯s leg swept low, striking her knee and forcing her to the ground.


    The woman found herself kneeling, her movements sluggish with pain and disbelief. A heartbeat later, Athena¡¯s hand closed firmly around her throat.


    The guards froze in place, their weapons poised but useless. The entire exchange had taken but a moment, and now their mistress was at the mercy of this formidable woman.


    Athena turned, her icy gaze landing on the manic prisoner who still held the guard in his grip. ¡°I said, no killing,¡± she repeated, her voice like tempered steel.


    The prisoner faltered, his deranged grin fading under her commanding presence. Reluctantly, he released the guard, who collapsed to the ground, gasping for air.


    Athena returned her attention to the woman beneath her grasp. ¡°Madam,¡± she said, her tone laced with mock civility, ¡°I trust you understand your position now?¡±


    The woman, still kneeling, glared at the floor, rage smoldering in her eyes. But when she lifted her gaze, her lips curled into a practiced, disarming smile.


    ¡°Such drastic measures for a misunderstanding,¡± she said sweetly, her voice syrupy and demure.


    But Athena was unmoved. She was not the sort to be swayed by false charm.


    ¡°It¡¯s a simple request,¡± Athena replied with a faint smile, one that carried the weight of an unspoken threat. ¡°Why don¡¯t you guide us to the cities ahead? After all, fate has brought us together.¡±


    The woman¡¯s teeth clenched behind her smile. Not only were they using her as a hostage, but they intended for her to lead the way.


    As she opened her mouth to respond, Athena shoved the document closer to her face, forcing her to read it.


    The woman scanned the text quickly. At first, she dismissed it as a forgery, but as her eyes roamed further, her heart sank. The seal was genuine, the words unmistakably official. The document authorized their passage, yet its veiled purpose was clear: they were being sent to the frontlines as expendable assets, their crimes labeled as economic violations.


    Her mind raced. Was this some cruel jest by a higher authority? Regardless, she was now caught in their web. These weren¡¯t ordinary prisoners, and underestimating them further would be a mistake.


    For now, her life was in their hands, and she had no choice but to comply.


    ¡°Ah, I see now- it¡¯s all been a misunderstanding,¡± she said, her tone shifting to one of nervous charm.


    ¡°If you wish to proceed to the next town, I¡¯ll ensure everything is arranged immediately,¡± she offered with a forced smile. ¡°The transport circle will be prepared at once.¡±


    Athena¡¯s sharp eyes caught the lie beneath her words. She was stalling, hoping to rid herself of them as quickly as possible.


    ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary,¡± Athena said, her voice smooth but firm. ¡°We¡¯d prefer your personal company.¡±


    The woman¡¯s leg was injured and useless, making escape impossible. Athena¡¯s gaze swept the room, landing on a burly, bald prisoner.


    ¡°You,¡± she called. The man straightened instantly, understanding her command. Without hesitation, he stepped forward and hoisted the woman onto his back.


    The guards hesitated, their instincts to intervene crushed by the woman¡¯s raised hand. She had no intention of worsening her predicament.


    And so, carried by her captors, the woman swallowed her pride, her thoughts filled with quiet fury and desperate plans for revenge.


    Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 166: Wanderers

    Chapter 166: Wanderers©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 166: Wanderers


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    As the old adage goes, "family scandals should not be aired in public." Everyone understood this truth, though it was seldom spoken aloud. Thus, the elegant lady- renowned for her impeccable reputation- had chosen a secluded and well-insulated location to confront Athena and her group. However, contrary to her expectations, she found herself utterly outmaneuvered.


    Her bodyguards, wary of both retaliation and exposure, dared not act recklessly nor spread rumors. To the onlookers, it appeared as though the lady had willingly accompanied Athena and her companions. This slight anomaly went unnoticed; in this region, her esteemed standing was beyond question, and no one dared suspect otherwise.


    Despite her relentless efforts, employing every ounce of her eloquence, the lady¡¯s honeyed words fell on deaf ears. She enumerated potential advantages and dangers, employing every rhetorical strategy at her disposal, yet Athena remained as unmoving as a stone. Even attempts to sow discord among her companions were met with indifference.


    Her resolve was unwavering: the lady would accompany them, whether she liked it or not. Frustration pushed the lady to the brink of despair. What drives this woman? she wondered. Is she mad? Why this obsession with dragging me along?


    Regret gnawed at her. Had I known, I would¡¯ve simply barred the door today.


    ...


    Guided by the lady¡¯s reluctant cooperation, Athena and her group soon arrived at the teleportation array. Situated in the plaza¡¯s center, it was marked by several towering stone pillars encircling an enormous teleportation stone. Guarded by four knights and surrounded by a defensive array, it was a fortress that few would dare challenge head-on.


    In earlier times, Athena might have considered brute force. But now¡­


    The lady, restored to her usual poised self, stood at their side. Her earlier injuries had been treated mid-journey by the elder in their group, only for Athena to force-feed her a pill soon after. The initial dose sent her body into spasms of dread, cold sweat pouring down her back as her heartbeat raced uncontrollably. A second pill alleviated her distress, but the warning was unmistakable: her life hung entirely by Athena¡¯s thread.


    She could never forget the chilling promise Athena had whispered: ¡°Stay with us, or the antidote won¡¯t matter. Your end will come regardless.¡±


    Steeling herself, the lady adopted her typical regal demeanor, striding confidently toward the knights guarding the teleportation array. Her every step radiated authority, her family¡¯s emblem pinned conspicuously to her chest, glinting in the sunlight. The mere sight of the emblem was enough to silence questions; those who knew her feared her reach and influence too much to interfere.


    Within moments, she had the array activated. No papers or official seals were necessary; her word was law. Athena confirmed the array¡¯s destination through her system before leading the group onto the platform. Though visibly reluctant, the lady stepped into the array with them, her resentment etched into every line of her face.


    Light enveloped the array as the teleportation sequence began. One by one, the group vanished into its glow. Unlike the seamless transfers facilitated by the system, this teleportation felt clunky and archaic to Athena. It stirred a sense of unease- was this crude inefficiency merely a flaw of the technology, or something intentional?


    [ Contest of Peaks ]


    Difficulty Level: LV4


    Proceed to the new battle zone.


    Penalty: Become a Wanderer.


    Reward: None.


    Time Limit: 3 Days.


    In the eerie silence of the forest, heavy breathing echoed unnervingly. A man adjusted his blood-smeared glasses, the lenses obscured by crimson streaks. While his improved constitution no longer required corrective lenses, the glasses had evolved into a critical piece of his toolkit.


    Wiping the grime away with his filthy sleeve, he revealed a tactical advantage- these glasses granted him a ten-meter omniscient view, displaying the layout of his surroundings and the precise movements of nearby life forms. Before him lay the colossal corpse of a creature, its threefold size dwarfing him. Its viscous black form pulsed unnervingly, blood still seeping from its monstrous remains.


    "Goodness," he muttered, clutching his side. Pain coursed through his body- a testament to his encounter with the creature. He and Athena had faced its wrath, though fate had spared him from the brunt of its fury. The creature, impervious to his attacks, had ignored him entirely. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Realizing his futility, he had retreated. But even now, in the desolation of the lands covered in darkness, survival was an uphill battle. These monstrosities grew increasingly active, their strength climbing with each encounter. His own reserves had dwindled to nothing.


    Finally afforded a moment''s respite, he opened his system interface and scanned his dwindling friend list. Most of the names had gone gray, denoting the dead or missing. A few were labeled as "Wanderers," stripped of their basic functions. His region''s population had dwindled to a mere hundred survivors.


    A unique mission greeted him upon logging in. Though he lacked Athena¡¯s raw power, his unique abilities had prompted the system to assign him a vital task:


    [Assemble]


    Objective: Seek out Wanderers lost across the lands and form a new team.


    Penalty: Become a Wanderer.Reward: None.Time Limit: 3 Days.


    The system¡¯s methods puzzled him. If losing their Shelters condemned players to the Wanderer status- deprived of essential system functions- why then assign such a laborious task? Surely, restoring those functions would expedite their survival.


    The Shelter acted as their anchor in this world. Without it, even the system struggled to locate them. To assemble the remnants, it had to designate specific players for the job. As the mission weighed heavily on his mind, he worked tirelessly to patch his wounds and send messages to any remaining survivors, hoping to rally even a few allies.


    [ World Chat ]


    075: "Most regions are either wiped out or reduced to Wanderers. The monsters are advancing fast."


    059: "Gather everything you can. High-value items- PM me!"


    062: "Can we abandon the shelter and run? I don¡¯t want to die here!"


    036: "Without a Sanctuary, you¡¯ll die faster. Trust me."


    053: "Anyone else see this? Our Sanctuary Shield¡¯s fully up, and there¡¯s¡­ a city across from us?"


    053: "What the hell! I¡¯m serious- a city! They¡¯re firing cannons at something. Are there other survivors in this world?"

 Chapter 167: Arrival at the Frontline

    Chapter 167: Arrival at the Frontline©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 167: Arrival at the Frontline


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    The town in the distance seemed like it belonged to an entirely different world. Though it shared the same expanse of land, it stood bathed in daylight¡¯s glory, a stark contrast to the murkiness that surrounded them.


    Its brilliance, magnified by the relentless barrage of cannon fire, painted an almost surreal tapestry. Yet, despite its dazzling appearance, their adversary across the way was no less than an invincible monstrosity.


    Athena had long since acquainted herself with the stark realities of this world. For most of the players, however, this was their first glimpse of the world''s true visage.


    The concept of Black Lands (black zones), White Lands (white zones), and battlefronts (war zones, battlezones)- they were encountering these for the first time. And for the first time, they were realizing that this world was not designed with them as its protagonists.


    Their eyes widened in collective astonishment as they gazed upon the town before them. It was a vision straight out of antiquity: towering walls stood resolute, imposing in their majesty, while its grand gates exuded an air of indomitable strength.


    This town radiated an aura of ancient mystique. Every stone, every tile bore the wear of countless years, embodying the passage of time in a way that had been invisible to them until now.


    So there were others alive in this world- living, breathing humans beyond their insular understanding. Their first reaction was shock, disbelief tinged with a profound sense of disillusionment.


    As these tumultuous emotions ebbed, a flicker of joy emerged. With the barriers lifted, they were free to leave their dreary confines.


    If there were survivors in that town, did it mean they could escape this nightmarish existence? Could they flee into the light, find sanctuary in other towns, and resume a normal life?


    This electrifying thought swept through them, stoking a fervent hope. They imagined a life unshackled from the need to fight monstrous abominations. Stronger city-states could fend off the terrors for them, sparing their fragile shelters from constant peril.


    ¡°Good heavens¡­ Is this real?¡± gasped a gaunt man with sallow skin, his eyes fixed on the scene across the expanse.


    Once an unremarkable, law-abiding citizen, he had struggled since arriving in this hellish reality. Despite his best efforts, he had failed to ascend the ranks of the players, perpetually languishing among the lowest echelons.


    Though his life had been fraught with hardship, he had clung stubbornly to survival. Now, as he beheld the ancient town in the distance, he felt the faint stirrings of hope- a glimmer of dawn piercing the suffocating darkness.


    His second-level shelter stood no chance against the relentless onslaught. Escape was his only option.


    His resolve was unwavering: flee the shelter, sever ties with the system¡¯s cursed missions and ever-mutating crises, and grasp at any semblance of salvation. Yet, he was no fool. Watching the ongoing battle- where titanic monsters clashed against relentless cannonades- he knew now was not the time to act.


    He would wait. Once the city-state defeated the creatures, he would make his move. He was prepared to sacrifice everything- his wealth, his pride- to secure asylum within its walls.


    But his hopes were dashed. In the eyes of countless desperate onlookers, the city-state that represented salvation proved incapable of repelling the horrors. Under the barrage of artillery fire, the monstrous beast- sporting only two pairs of wings- remained steadfast, an immovable force.


    Legions of foot soldiers poured from the city¡¯s gates, valiantly holding the line against the smaller, innumerable creatures below.


    Then, the behemoth roared- a guttural, deafening cry that reverberated across the battlefield. From its gaping maw surged a blinding ray of violet energy, streaking across the sky like a thunderbolt. The beam struck the city''s formidable barrier, its surface rippling under the impact.


    To everyone¡¯s horror, the once-impervious shield began to erode, a cavernous black void spreading outward. Within moments, the mighty barrier was reduced to a tattered remnant, teetering on the brink of collapse.


    With the defences breached, the monstrous colossus unleashed another searing violet beam. This time, it tore through the city¡¯s fortifications with merciless precision, obliterating everything in its path.


    As waves of creatures flooded into the city, a burst of radiant light flared from within the stronghold. But the light barely had time to surge before it was smothered by yet another purple ray.


    Within half an hour, even from a great distance, the devastation was palpable. Screams and chaos engulfed the once-proud city-state.


    The light was extinguished.


    ...


    Though there had been several disruptions among her group, Athena had swiftly subdued them with her usual unyielding force.


    She had, by now, gained a keen understanding of the peculiar individuals under her charge. Among them, five stood out as particularly notable.


    One, of course, was Carlit- an unwilling addition to her entourage, forcibly assigned to accompany her. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The second was an aged man with snowy white hair. A formidable physician, his skills inspired awe, but his expertise in toxins marked him as a figure to watch closely.


    Third was the bald man. Even without his warhammer- confiscated by Athena- his immense physical strength was undeniable. His resilience rendered him impervious to ordinary weapons, and he could, with his bare hands, carve out a crater in the earth.


    Fourth was a lithe woman who concealed her face behind a curtain of hair. Her allure was tempered by an unsettling reticence. It was only through watchful vigilance that her true nature- a sorceress adept in curses- had been revealed.


    Finally, there was the wiry man whom Athena had prevented from committing murder. While his physical strength was unremarkable, his agility and mastery of the blade were unparalleled. He wielded his dagger with an artistry that bordered on sorcery.


    These five were far from innocent. Their hands were stained with the blood of countless lives, both wicked and virtuous.


    As their journey progressed, Athena marvelled at the tangled web of power and wealth that bound them together. Kidnapping the noblewoman had proven a prudent decision.


    Her beauty, coupled with the emblem of the Babron family she carried, had smoothed their path in countless ways. Officials barely glanced at their documents; in one particularly chaotic town, they had even been granted immediate access to a teleportation array.


    Their travel time had been drastically reduced, and the few obstacles they encountered were swiftly ¡®negotiated¡¯ away.


    ...


    At the teleportation array¡¯s exit, a striking noblewoman emerged first, her face etched with fury. Two pets hovered protectively around her, their eyes gleaming with intelligence. Behind her trailed a contingent of soldiers and a ragtag group of prisoners, an odd yet compelling ensemble.


    Here, however, they were nothing extraordinary. After all, this was a warzone.


    The frontlines teemed with all manner of individuals- desperate fugitives, unruly outlaws, elite guards, and the strongest defence systems the world had to offer.


    Baroness Babron Firol¡¯s gaze burned with hatred as she glared at Athena. Along their journey, she had tried every trick in the book- force, threats, cajolery- but had failed to extract the antidote she so desperately sought.


    Athena ignored her piercing stare, her attention drawn instead to the atmosphere of the frontline. It was always heavy with tension, but today, it felt particularly oppressive. Something was amiss.

 Chapter 169: The Harbinger of Azure Flame

    Chapter 169: The Harbinger of Azure Flame©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 169: The Harbinger of Azure Flame


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    A towering figure astride a pitch-black warhorse emerged from the mist of chaos. Clad in a tattered black robe, a hood obscured his visage, casting a shadow that veiled his features.


    With deliberate poise, the figure raised a skeletal hand and pulled back the hood, revealing a polished skull devoid of flesh. Yet, within the empty sockets burned two radiant blue flames, their intensity so fierce they seemed to sear the very air, making it impossible for anyone to meet his gaze directly.


    The surrounding monsters instinctively recoiled from his presence, retreating to maintain a safe distance. However, Athena¡¯s onslaught showed no signs of abating.


    He had just remarked on the lack of higher-tier monsters when, as if summoned by his words, this formidable apparition materialized.


    As Athena¡¯s eyes settled on the skeletal rider, an overwhelming aura of oppression and dread radiated from the figure. It felt as though the very air froze, heavy and suffocating.


    With a subtle nudge of his heels, the skeletal rider sent the warhorse bolting forward like an arrow loosed from a bowstring. A black blur streaked across the battlefield, the ground trembling beneath the beast¡¯s thunderous charge. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In an instant, the colossal steed bore down on Athena. Its muscular frame rippled with power, hooves pounding the earth with bone-rattling force. With a mighty snort, the horse reared, threatening to crush Athena beneath its ironclad hooves.


    But Athena evaded the strike effortlessly. The horse¡¯s hooves slammed down, obliterating two hapless monsters that had failed to escape, leaving Athena unscathed.


    The warhorse, standing nearly two meters tall at the shoulder, was an imposing sight. Paired with the skeletal harbinger¡¯s towering three-meter frame, the duo dominated the entire area with presence alone.


    Seeing his steed fail to trample its target, the skeletal harbinger cast a disdainful glance at Athena. His hollow eyes burned with icy contempt.


    With long, spindly fingers, he stroked the warhorse¡¯s mane, calming its labored breathing.


    Around them, the battlefield remained a frenzy of combat, the air thick with the stench of blood. Yet an eerie stillness enveloped the space between Athena and the skeletal harbinger, as if an unspoken pact had cleared the area.


    All eyes turned toward them, a mixture of dread and hope flickering in the gazes of the onlookers. Victory for Athena could shift the tides of battle, galvanizing their faltering morale.


    Even those deserters who had abandoned their posts earlier were now gradually rejoining the fray, driven by a fragile spark of hope.


    Athena inhaled deeply, her eyes sharpening with steely resolve. She tightened her grip on the Black Abyss Axe, its blade gleaming ominously. The skeletal harbinger regarded her as a mere insect, but Athena refused to bow to his arrogance.


    The harbinger growled, a guttural sound that reverberated through the battlefield. It was a low, menacing roar, a warning meant to cow his adversary.


    How dare such a feeble creature direct murderous intent at him? Unforgivable!


    The dignity of the skeletal harbinger was sacrosanct, and his wrath was absolute.


    The blue flames in his eye sockets blazed brighter, the oppressive aura he exuded growing so suffocating that even his warhorse began to tremble. It pawed at the ground nervously, as if seeking escape from the crushing pressure.


    But Athena stood her ground. She advanced steadily, each step imbued with unwavering determination. An intangible aura began to emanate from her, one that seemed to defy the skeletal harbinger¡¯s overwhelming presence.


    A confrontation so immensely strong and demanded everyone''s attention!


    The warhorse quaked between them, its once-powerful legs faltering under the strain of the two immense auras.


    Sensing the shift in momentum, the skeletal harbinger finally moved. From beneath his ragged cloak, he drew forth a massive sword with a single sweeping motion. His left hand gripped the reins tightly, while his right hand brandished the blade, ready to cut down his challenger.


    Athena dodged his strikes with nimble precision, her own attacks targeting the vulnerable joints of the warhorse¡¯s legs.


    If she could bring the beast down, the harbinger would lose his advantage in mobility.


    Her strikes landed true, eliciting pained roars from the warhorse. Yet it endured, its unyielding spirit surpassing her expectations.


    She quickly noted a pattern: while the harbinger¡¯s strength was formidable, his movements were slow, encumbered by his towering frame. Exploiting this weakness, she launched a relentless series of calculated strikes at the warhorse.


    The skeletal harbinger retaliated with sweeping arcs of his greatsword, forcing her to divide her focus between evading his attacks and crippling the steed.


    Finally, after a grueling exchange, Athena saw her chance. With a precise thrust, she drove her blade into the warhorse¡¯s knee joint. The beast buckled under its weight, its balance shattered.


    As the warhorse collapsed with a tortured neigh, the skeletal harbinger leapt clear, abandoning his mount without hesitation.


    Wasting no time, Athena delivered a series of brutal strikes with her axe, ensuring the warhorse would not rise again.


    The skeletal harbinger regarded the scene impassively, as though the loss of his steed meant nothing. To him, the horse was but a disposable tool.


    Athena smirked bitterly at his indifference. How typical of these creatures, she thought. Their arrogance was their undoing, a hubris born from the belief that they were the world¡¯s rightful rulers.


    She stepped onto the fallen horse¡¯s carcass, using it as a springboard to launch herself toward the harbinger, who stood watching with disdain.


    With a thunderous crack, their weapons clashed once more. Sparks flew as their respective auras collided in a violent dance of power.


    This time, Athena¡¯s strike forced the harbinger to take a step back. A shallow fissure marred the pristine surface of his ribcage.


    The blue flames in his eyes flickered momentarily before roaring back to life, fiercer than ever.


    The azure fire spread rapidly, engulfing his entire skeletal frame and flowing seamlessly into his greatsword. He stood ablaze, a ghastly figure emanating spectral light, like a harbinger from the depths of the underworld.


    Raising the flame-wreathed sword high, he charged at Athena with renewed ferocity. The air around them swirled violently, whipped into a frenzy by his movements.


    The azure flames licked at her axe as their weapons met again, and an unbearable searing pain coursed through her body- not physical, but deep within her soul.


    It was as though her very essence was being scorched by the unearthly fire.

 Chapter 170: The City Gates

    Chapter 170: The City Gates©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 170: The City Gates


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    As the eerie blue flames continued to spread rapidly over her body, Athena swiftly retreated.


    Watching her pull back, the harbinger exuded an air of excitement- as if it had already claimed victory.


    The battle could not afford to drag on for too long; any delay would only serve to the detriment of the human side, for behind the gate lay an endless horde of monsters.


    Athena wished to bypass the troublesome harbinger and seal the city gates, but judging by the harbinger¡¯s posture, it seemed unwilling to let her go.


    Though the blue flames could scorch one''s soul, they did not cause tangible harm. Yet the pain was real- intensified to a degree several times beyond what one would experience in normal circumstances.


    When the flames enveloped one¡¯s body, it was as if the excruciating agony would drown the individual in mere moments, potentially leading to a mental collapse. This, it seemed, was the true nature of the attack- a psychological onslaught.


    If one intended to fight, the blue flames would inevitably creep closer, ensuring that their foe''s efforts would be in vain.


    However, since it failed to inflict permanent physical damage, there was, in some ways, little to fear.


    Before the harbinger could fully revel in its perceived victory, Athena charged once more. Unafraid, the harbinger swung its greatsword, the blue flames dancing along its blade with fierce intensity.


    [ Tranquility ]


    Tranquility Lv10 allowed Athena to rapidly regain composure at any moment. While in battle, it provided resistance to all forms of mental affliction. Outside of combat, it increased various efficiencies by 45%, with a cooldown time of two hours and a duration of two hours.


    If avoiding the blue flames and the pain they inflicted was impossible, the solution was simple: ignore it, and press onward.


    Athena attacked again. Lifting her black abyss axe, she swung fiercely at the skeletal harbinger.


    As the greatsword collided with her black abyss axe, the blue flames, seemingly alive, crept through the gap and began to spread over her.


    In an instant, her body was consumed by the same blue flames as the harbinger¡¯s, quickly engulfing her entire form.


    The flames, wild and untamed like a burning inferno, surrounded her. A boundless pain surged through her- a mental anguish so intense that it could crush a person within moments. Yet, her gaze remained resolute, unshaken, her grip on the axe unwavering, as though she were untouched by the agony itself.


    The harbinger faltered for but a moment. It knew its own powers all too well.


    The blue flames that enveloped Athena seemed more like an ornate suit of armor than a source of pain. Strangely, she appeared unaffected- her expression unchanged.


    This, for the harbinger, was a shock. A fleeting moment of fear gripped it, for even the briefest lapse in focus on the battlefield could prove fatal.


    When Athena¡¯s eyes locked onto the skeletal harbinger, the pain within her transformed into something else.


    The black abyss axe arced through the air, a blinding and forceful strike.


    A shower of sparks erupted, but this time the blow did not land on the greatsword- it struck the harbinger¡¯s shoulder instead. While the strength of the harbinger¡¯s bones was formidable, it was only so strong. The bones at its shoulder shattered, crumbling into pieces. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The tremendous force of the blow sent shockwaves through the air. On one side stood the eerie, ominous skeletal harbinger; on the other, Athena, both engulfed in roaring blue flames, creating a chilling and bizarre image.


    Had the harbinger not reacted in time, stepping aside just slightly, the axe would have struck its neck rather than its shoulder.


    As the bones in its shoulder shattered, the blue flames began to weaken, retreating from Athena¡¯s body.


    ¡°Agh!¡±


    For the first time, the harbinger felt true fear. Its shoulder shattered, it twisted its body, trying to escape Athena¡¯s grasp, swinging its sword wildly.


    The harbinger dared not underestimate its opponent, for Athena¡¯s power was immense, each blow brimming with lethal intent.


    However, just as it prepared to face Athena again, it found itself staring at an empty space.


    Suddenly, Athena vanished from view, reappearing behind the harbinger.


    [ Hunter ]


    Hunter Lv10 amplified the strength in its legs, boosting speed by 50%. Every use came with a cooldown of 20 minutes.


    With her black abyss axe in hand, she swung horizontally with astonishing speed. The strike carried a chilling force, cutting through the air as if it would tear it apart.


    The bones here were tougher than expected. Although fissures appeared in the bone, the axe did not cleave through it.


    The harbinger howled in pain once more. At that moment, the monsters around them stirred, abandoning their fight with the humans, eager to converge on the scene.


    It seemed that the harbinger sought to use the monsters as a distraction to flee, desperate to escape.


    Athena, however, was relentless. She ignored the encroaching monsters, leaping from their backs with such force that some were crushed beneath her feet.


    One axe strike after another landed with devastating precision, relentlessly assaulting the harbinger.


    The harbinger dodged swiftly, but the black abyss axe moved too fast. In the blink of an eye, it was upon him once again.


    Only just able to raise his greatsword in defense, the harbinger¡¯s injuries left him vulnerable. The axe¡¯s force was overwhelming, and a gap opened at his neck.


    In that instant, the black abyss axe descended like a streak of black lightning, cutting through the harbinger¡¯s neck.


    Bones shattered, and the harbinger screamed in agony, feeling the searing pain spread through its body. Its vision darkened as its body fell uncontrollably. The blue light in its eyes faded.


    Athena¡¯s own last remnants of flame also dissipated.


    Pain¡­ intense pain. During the battle, she had intentionally suppressed it, but now, with her guard lowered, it was overwhelming. It felt as though she had come face to face with death itself.


    Although Tranquility had helped her resist the mental effects of the pain, it could not block the physical sensation entirely.


    Without the harbinger, the monsters around her began to stir in a frenzy. They quickly swarmed toward the fallen harbinger¡¯s body, eager to drag it away.


    Athena collected the harbinger''s remains into her system¡¯s storage bag, unbothered by the chaos around her, and moved steadily towards the city gates.


    The monsters posed no real threat as she pushed forward. After dealing with the few that obstructed her path, she reached the control center at the top of the city wall.


    There were no soldiers left, nor any command personnel who should have been stationed here. Only empty gun emplacements remained.


    Thanks to her previous experience in the Sun City of Sol Kingdom, she knew how to operate the machinery and close the gates.


    Unfortunately, the sheer number of monsters gathered at the gates made it impossible to fully shut them. Halfway through, the gates jammed, unable to move further. The people below, not foolish, quickly shifted tactics, launching attacks at the monsters near the gates.

 Chapter 171: Benevolent Lies

    Chapter 171: Benevolent Lies©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 171: Benevolent Lies sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


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    The chaos of the monsters, already in full swing, faltered for a brief moment under the relentless assault of the defenders.


    In the mere span of that fleeting second, the city gates slammed shut with a resounding boom, effectively sealing off the monstrous horde outside.


    Athena couldn''t help but feel a surge of relief; she had arrived just in time. Had she been even a little later, she would have found the city nothing more than a desolate, silent ruin.


    The creatures within the city were either dead or had already fled. This left Witty emboldened, firing cannons without restraint, shell after shell ripping through the air.


    What surprised Athena, however, were the prisoners who had accompanied her. She had expected them to realize they were being used, perhaps fleeing at the first opportunity, but instead, they fought valiantly on the front lines.


    With Athena¡¯s efforts, the gates were firmly closed, and the defensive mechanisms re-engaged successfully. Without hesitation, she turned the turrets, aiming every cannon at the throng of monsters surging beneath the gates.


    At her command, a torrential barrage of artillery exploded forth, sending countless shells hurtling towards the mass of creatures below.


    The sheer power of the blasts stirred up a tempest of blood and gore, as the monsters were torn apart in an instant.


    Yet, despite the ferocity of the assault, it was no match for the earlier onslaught. The limits of one person¡¯s strength became clear. Ultimately, it was the experienced taxi soldiers who would need to take control of the situation. And without the mages in the rear to provide support, there was only so much she could do.


    She couldn¡¯t allow the monsters to remain beneath the gates indefinitely, though. A solution had to be found. The fleeing taxi soldiers had to be recalled, and soon.


    The creatures struck by the cannonfire let out shrill, agonising cries as their bodies were shredded, their blood and flesh scattering in every direction.


    However, more monsters pressed on relentlessly, undeterred, their numbers seemingly endless.


    Each shell claimed a few lives, but the tide of beasts continued to swell, unyielding.


    The bombardment persisted, unrelenting.


    [ System Notification: Congratulations, Player! Mission 2: Eliminate 200 Monsters Complete! ]


    [ Challenge Level: Lv. 9 ]


    Objective: Defend the City


    Penalty: Become a Wanderer


    Reward: None


    [ Notice: All remaining missions will take place in a new battle zone. Players are strongly advised not to leave. Failure to comply will result in mission failure! ]


    Upon seeing the mission notification, Athena¡¯s heart sank. Though the monsters before the gates were troublesome, they were hardly insurmountable.


    The system''s transmission of this mission could only signify that something far worse was approaching.


    She had barely arrived at the frontlines and already faced this chaos. In an attempt to gain a better view of the situation ahead, she used her dark vision goggles.


    She had intended to resolve the battle with the monsters quickly, but as she descended to lend her aid, her eyes were drawn to several protective barriers in the distance.


    They weren¡¯t large, but they stood out, shining brilliantly, scattered around the area, stretching on without end.


    Athena instantly recognized them for what they were- system-provided sanctuary barriers.


    Throughout the war zone, there had always been fortified cities belonging to various nations, but she had typically traveled to these locations through teleportation via the World Stone.


    Now, with darkness steadily encroaching upon humanity''s territories, last bastion of light, the positions of the war zones were constantly shifting. The once-hidden protective barriers around cities had evaporated, like fog clearing away, revealing their true nature for all to see.


    Suppressing her unease, Athena descended into the city once more and rejoined the fight. With her efforts, the pressure on many of the defenders was greatly reduced.


    Without the continuous stream of incoming monsters, their numbers began to dwindle, though many had still perished in the struggle.


    After an extended period of unyielding combat, the fighting eventually ceased. Most had sustained injuries, some of them grave, yet only Athena seemed untouched by the bloodshed- though the crimson stains that covered her were not her own.


    Immediately, reconstruction began. Since they had chosen not to flee, it meant they had opted to stand with Athena.


    The first priority was to recall all the fleeing taxi soldiers. Simply asking them to return would be futile, so a more forceful approach was adopted. Some were captured and brought back by force, before being handed over to Babronflio for interrogation.


    They were then told that the Babron family had dispatched them to take control of this city-state. As for the documents, the trembling individuals did not dare to inspect them closely. However, they could not miss the golden seal stamped upon them.


    Given what they had witnessed with their own eyes- Athena¡¯s formidable strength- there was no room for doubt. They knew they had been spared from execution, and this leniency was seen as the greatest mercy.


    This small group of prisoners was tasked with finding the next batch of deserters, initiating a cycle that would eventually bring Athena face-to-face with the majority of the fleeing taxi soldiers.


    From among them, she selected a few of the more astute-looking individuals to inquire about the situation.


    It soon became clear that this city-state, much smaller than others, had once been an ordinary settlement.


    However, in recent days, something had changed. The nearby city-state had been obliterated, presumably by an enormous monster.


    In the wake of this catastrophe, the city¡¯s leadership and military personnel were dispatched to the front lines, though they were unable to halt the monster¡¯s advance, resulting in the death of all involved.


    Adding to their misfortune, several of the remaining leaders had fled, taking what little funds remained for the city¡¯s defense and vanishing to other regions.


    Some mercenaries, desperate and unpaid, had chosen to open the gates, leading to the chaos now unfolding.


    Fortuitously, the monster that had attacked the previous guardian city had refrained from continuing its assault, sparing them- for the moment.


    Thus, the scene Athena had arrived at today was set into motion.


    According to the timeline, the city had fallen late yesterday afternoon, and the rebellion had erupted early this morning.


    This ruled out the possibility that the Babron family had anticipated the event and sent her here beforehand. It could only be described as a fortuitous coincidence.


    Everyone had regarded them as the first wave of reinforcements, believing that Athena¡¯s arrival meant salvation. She did not correct them.


    For now, her attention was fixed on the protective barrier she had observed in the distance, yet she was careful not to lose focus on her current mission.


    She began to direct the defenders, urging them to return to their respective posts. Unexpectedly, the elderly medic was not only skilled in healing; he had once held a similar leadership role. With his help, the weight of responsibility on Athena¡¯s shoulders lightened considerably.

 Chapter 175: Victory?

    Chapter 175: Victory?©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©·?( ¡Þ )?©³©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    Chapter 175: Victory?


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    The opposition seemed unprepared for such an abrupt turn of events. As the mechanical dragon¡¯s claw sustained a grievous wound, the rate of its teleportation visibly accelerated, a clear sign of its distress.


    Its injured claw, propelled by a final surge of force, swiped fiercely through the air, attempting to swat away the pesky human attacking it. Yet, it grasped nothing but wind, unleashing a sharp gust that cut through the battlefield.


    In mere moments, Athena had rendered one of the dragon¡¯s claws completely useless. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Next emerged the metallic sheen of its head, a visage wrought with seething fury. Its eyes brimmed with an almost tangible hatred, a desperate thirst to obliterate Athena.


    Following its head came the upper half of its colossal body. Seizing the opportunity, Athena vaulted onto its form, aiming directly for its eyes.


    The dragon, infuriated beyond measure, lashed out with its remaining claw. How detestable was this human! Attacking while the dragon was still in the throes of teleportation? Such shameless audacity was beyond anything it had ever encountered.


    From its blazing eyes, Athena gleaned its turbulent emotions. she mused. It lacked the cunning required to orchestrate the chaos around them.


    And yet, where was the true orchestrator? The dragon''s back was bare- no visible signs of a controller. Scanning the battlefield yielded no answers, even as Witty sought in vain amid the chaos of thrashing enemies.


    The thought gnawed at her, but her hands never faltered. She danced across the dragon¡¯s massive frame, evading its relentless strikes while carving precise marks into its armored body like a madman. Each new wound became a testament to her effort to divert its attention.


    After all, the dragon¡¯s immense strength meant that even a single blow landing on the walls could result in catastrophic loss of life.


    However, it didn¡¯t take long for the dragon to discern her intent. It ceased its futile attempts to strike her, knowing well that her assaults, though injurious, were far from fatal to its heavily fortified body.


    Instead, its menacing gaze shifted toward the fortress walls.


    ¡°Activate Now!¡± Athena bellowed, sensing its change in focus. She launched herself skyward, twisting mid-air as her voice roared over the din below.


    Yet, none of the artillery on the wall seemed aimed at the dragon. No turrets were directed toward its advancing form.


    From behind the wall, a massive, spherical construct began to rise. Radiating an ethereal blue glow, it was encircled by two rotating metal rings.


    At its core stood a woman clad in prison garb, her long hair flowing as though alive. Her face, strikingly beautiful, was pale as porcelain, her figure lithe and graceful.


    She bore no semblance of a captive, let alone a mage. Instead, she seemed more akin to a celestial maiden descended from the heavens.


    As she murmured arcane words and performed intricate gestures, an unearthly power surged forth from her body. Initially invisible, the energy became a vivid violet upon merging with the massive sphere, rushing toward the mechanical dragon with unstoppable force.


    Encased in this otherworldly energy, the dragon found itself unable to carry out its destructive rampage.


    Though unease gripped its core, the dragon remained physically unharmed. Its frustration mounted as it realized it had been outmaneuvered by humans.


    Yet, an alarming development soon caught its attention. The wounds inflicted by Athena earlier had ceased healing. Worse, the injuries seemed to widen, pouring forth more of its lifeblood.


    Each gash now radiated an insidious aura, promising lethal consequences.


    Vathalia has activated the Curse of Misfortune!


    Skill amplified: Malice of the World!


    As long as Vathalia maintained her focus, the dragon¡¯s demise was inevitable. But her trembling body betrayed the toll such power was exacting. She couldn¡¯t hold on for long.


    It didn¡¯t matter. This was enough.


    Each subsequent strike from Athena, no matter how shallow, compounded the dragon¡¯s injuries exponentially. Minor scratches became gaping wounds.


    Even if the mastermind remained elusive, what did it matter? If all its soldiers and generals fell, the king would stand as nothing more than a lone piece on the board, powerless to resist.


    The mechanical dragon writhed in desperation. Every movement exacerbated its injuries, and an oppressive force seemed to crush down upon it, rejecting its very existence.


    Vathalia¡¯s ability was far more fearsome than Athena had anticipated. Seizing the moment, she unleashed a flurry of attacks on the dragon¡¯s weakened spots.


    Howling in pain, the dragon thrashed wildly, shockwaves upon shockwaves almost flattening everything around, its agony driving it to new heights of fury.


    But Vathalia¡¯s condition worsened. Her body convulsed violently, teetering on the brink of collapse.


    ¡°Hold on!¡± Athena shouted, her voice a rallying cry as she redoubled her efforts.


    Despite her relentless assault, the dragon clung to its monstrous vitality. Its rampage left the walls in disarray, scattering debris and claiming the lives of soldiers and steel monsters alike.


    ¡°Deploy the second attack!¡± Athena commanded, her voice resolute.


    Another spherical construct ascended, but unlike the first, this one exuded a feral, destructive aura. Within it, countless arcs of electricity coiled and sparked, converging into a singular, blinding flash.


    A thunderous bolt erupted from the sphere, striking the dragon squarely.


    With a final, deafening cry, the dragon collapsed, its enormous body slamming into the earth with a ground-shaking crash. Half the wall crumbled beneath its weight, leaving only its ruined, semi-mechanical corpse amidst the devastation.


    Even in death, its last act of defiance wrought havoc, annihilating soldiers and monsters in the vicinity.


    The scene was both awe-inspiring and devastating.


    Though the loss of defenses was severe, the dragon¡¯s demise also eliminated a significant portion of the enemy forces. A bittersweet victory, but a victory nonetheless.


    With newfound morale, the remaining troops surged forward, driven by the triumph over their towering foe. The belief that they only needed to dispatch the remaining steel monsters to secure victory pushed them to fight with unyielding determination.


    Under a relentless barrage of artillery, the enemy was finally subdued.


    As Athena and her comrades began the arduous task of cleanup, no further adversaries emerged.


    [ Congratulations, Player, on completing Quest 3: Defend the Fortress. ]


    [ Contest of Peaks ]


    [ Difficulty Level: LV ? ]


    [ Final Stage of the Contest of Peaks will unlock in three days! ]


    The absence of the mastermind left Athena uneasy. Its retreat was suspicious- was it truly gone, or merely biding its time?


    Her thoughts were interrupted by an unexpected arrival: other players.


    Their sanctuary barriers hadn¡¯t been breached- they had willingly deactivated them, summoned by the system to join the ultimate battle.


    [ Accept the new players to proceed to the final stage! ]

 Chapter 176 | Arrival of Players

    Chapter 176 | Arrival of PlayersBeneath the city walls, chaos reigned. The ground was strewn with the mangled remains of monstrous corpses, their grotesque metallic forms staining the earth crimson. A vile stench hung in the air, potent enough to churn even the strongest stomachs.


    Beyond the walls, the aftermath of relentless bombardment was unmistakable. The earth was scarred, cratered, and lifeless, the lingering smoke and the metallic tang of blood creating an oppressive, choking atmosphere.


    Half of the city wall lay in ruins, reduced to jagged rubble¡ªa silent testament to the battle¡¯s ferocity. Amidst the destruction sprawled the lifeless corpse of a colossal dragon. Even in death, its imposing presence dominated the scene, daring anyone to approach.


    Exhausted soldiers stood atop the surviving walls, their expressions a mixture of weariness and exhilaration. The reality of survival¡ªa rare luxury in such grim times¡ªslowly began to sink in. A wave of jubilant cheers erupted, spreading from one soldier to another. They had done it; they had achieved victory, their first true triumph.


    Yet beneath the euphoria lurked an unspoken truth: this was a pyrrhic victory. Should another wave of monsters descend upon them, survival would be nothing but a fleeting illusion.


    Athena surveyed the scene with a furrowed brow, her thoughts clouded with unease. The mission¡¯s completion brought her no solace. Instead, it served as a grim reminder of the challenges ahead. The next task loomed, its parameters shrouded in mystery. And the unknown, as always, was the most fearsome foe.


    Far in the distance, the sanctuary¡¯s barrier had dimmed, its radiance lost. It stood as a haunting prelude to desolation, devoid of any signs of life. Yet faint silhouettes began to emerge, inching closer to the city.


    ¡®Players?¡¯


    Was this some machination of the system? Why were these individuals abandoning their shelters to converge here? And why weren¡¯t they classified as wandering players?


    Unanswered questions swirled in her mind, each more perplexing than the last. But immediate concerns took precedence: how to handle these newcomers and integrate them into the fragile balance of their operations.


    Jubilation gave way to somber reflection. The loss of friends and family, coupled with the gnawing uncertainty of the future, weighed heavily on everyone.


    Noxus, his weapon Black Friday now secured, approached Athena. Confusion flickered across his otherwise stoic face, a somber shadow etched into his features. Without a word, he handed her Black Friday. She inspected it briefly before returning it, silently acknowledging his indispensable contribution to their survival.


    Breaking the uneasy silence, Noxus finally spoke, his voice low but firm. ¡°Captain, I spotted a group of scattered figures approaching.¡±


    Given the circumstances, his concern was valid. Monsters had only just been repelled, and now another group was drawing near? The possibility that these were humanoid monsters couldn¡¯t be ignored. Their precarious state left them dangerously close to annihilation.


    Athena¡¯s eyes briefly widened in surprise, not at the information but at his choice of address. ¡°Captain?¡± That was a first.


    ¡°No need to worry,¡± she replied with practiced calm. ¡°They¡¯re from the Third World.¡±


    Her tone was deliberately nonchalant. For those entrenched in frontline operations, cooperation with the Third World was common knowledge. Yet for the average denizen of the city-state, such alliances were shrouded in secrecy. Among the prisoners she¡¯d brought here, most were likely aware.


    She glanced at Noxus¡¯s perplexed expression.


    ...Well, most.


    ¡°Perhaps you should ask that old man,¡± she suggested, gesturing toward an elder in their midst. She trusted the prisoners to weave their own explanations; it was human nature to fill gaps with speculation.


    But how to accommodate these players? The system had directed them here, implying their potential utility in future missions. Considering the city¡¯s battered defenses, any additional manpower was invaluable. She could only hope they wouldn¡¯t prove too troublesome. The antics she¡¯d observed in the world chat offered little reason for optimism.


    Meanwhile, Starshine Five was among the first to arrive. When he first saw the city, his heart surged with anticipation, tempered by the fear of being flagged as a wandering player¡ªa wanderer.


    The system¡¯s intervention was a stroke of fortune. A task had been issued, directing them to this very location. To Starshine, it felt like divine providence.


    The battle raging in the distance hadn¡¯t escaped his notice. The intensity of the bombardment illuminated the night sky, casting an ominous glow. He had waited until the chaos subsided, prioritizing caution over boldness. Yet as he surveyed the aftermath¡ªobliterated monsters and smoldering ruins¡ªhe shuddered. Had those creatures targeted him instead, the outcome would have been grim.


    Hesitation lingered until other players began to arrive. The presence of competitors spurred him into action. If this were anything like a game, there might be rewards for early arrival. A good position, favorable terms¡ªsuch advantages were too enticing to ignore.


    The city gates, however, remained shut. As they deliberated their next move, the massive doors groaned open. Tentatively, they stepped inside, only to be met with cold steel¡ªspears pointed directly at their throats.


    Encircling them were soldiers, their armor still slick with monster blood. The tension in the air was palpable, their sheer presence intimidating the newcomers. Not one dared move.


    At the forefront stood a woman clad in light armor, every inch of her stained with blood. She wielded a blackened axe, its edge glinting with malice. Her piercing gaze swept over them, cold and unyielding, exuding dominance.


    ¡°Welcome, reinforcements from the Third World,¡± she said, her voice unexpectedly soft, betraying no hostility.


    The players froze, utterly bewildered. What manner of monster greeted them with such cordiality?


    ...


    As the players trickled in, Athena wasted no time weaving a tapestry of half-truths and reassurances. With the old medic¡¯s support and Filio¡¯s persuasive charm, her narrative painted her as the linchpin of their collective survival. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The players, desperate for purpose and clarity, clung to her words. They believed her to be the pivotal figure in this unfolding mission, and her authority went unquestioned.


    Athena smirked inwardly. The details could be adjusted later. For now, the players were under her control. Should any dare challenge her, she would make them regret their insolence.


    But first came the most tedious task: rebuilding.

 Chapter 177 | A Warmth In The Cold

    Chapter 177 | A Warmth In The ColdThis victory did more than instill a sense of belonging in the people¡ªit filled them with newfound confidence, a belief that they could endure whatever wars lay ahead.


    With Filio¡¯s assistance, Athena had activated the teleportation array. Though the Imperial City was eager to learn the state of affairs, it would take time for any message to reach them. The array had been deactivated but remained under close surveillance.


    At the very least, this action had quelled any rash impulses among the populace. Their trust in Athena and her companions had solidified.


    While some chose to flee the growing tension, most stayed. This city, their home, held everything they cherished¡ªfamily, life, and memories. Leaving it behind was no easy decision.


    Moreover, there was now hope¡ªhope brought by Athena herself.


    Using the authority granted by her position, Athena succeeded in convening discussions with the craftsmen and specialists to negotiate the steps ahead.


    The first priority: bolstering their firepower systems, followed closely by reconstructing the city walls.


    As she studied the battle map, Athena noticed an unusual stillness in the surrounding area. If the system held any reliability, this silence could mean only one thing: an impending attack in three days.


    Three days. Such a brief span of time¡ªtoo tight, too narrow. Under normal circumstances, completing all these tasks within such a timeframe would have been sheer folly.


    But these were not normal circumstances. Athena did not expect perfection; even incremental improvements would suffice.


    With confidence, the artisans assured her they would work tirelessly to accomplish their tasks.


    At this point, all she could do was place her trust in them¡ªalong with the necessary funds, of course.


    And so, the rebuilding and reorganization began in earnest. As for the players who had arrived, Athena did not hesitate to assign those with special skills to the effort, effectively turning them into a pool of free labor.


    Over a hundred players had arrived, scattered in small groups. Each one was, effectively, worth the labor of three ordinary workers¡ªa timely arrival, indeed. Naturally, Athena kept a close eye on them, searching for those with unique abilities.


    What troubled her most, however, were not the new recruits but the surviving taxi soldiers¡ªthose who had been gravely wounded. The medical supplies at their disposal were woefully insufficient for the staggering number of injured.


    Despite having sent the elderly man to the infirmary for treatment, the urgent need for more medical care remained a pressing concern.


    The true horrors of war were not confined to the battlefield but lay in its aftermath¡ªin the infirmary. It was there, in that grim place, that the brutal truth of war became apparent.


    The wounded lay sprawled on the floor or seated in chairs. Some had lost limbs, others their sight or hearing. Many had been so grievously harmed they seemed unrecognizable.


    These soldiers bore terrible injuries, their bodies swathed in bloodstained bandages. The groans of pain were incessant¡ªheartbreaking in their unyielding nature.


    Their once-comfortable clothing clung to their wounds, as if fused with the very fabric of their flesh. Every attempt to remove it was an agonizing ordeal, a cruel reminder of their suffering.


    Yet these soldiers did not falter. They gritted their teeth and endured the endless pain, clinging to the faint hope of recovery and the dream of returning to the fight.


    Before entering, Athena had rehearsed countless words she might say. But as soon as she stepped into the room and met the soldiers'' eyes, she found herself at a loss for words.


    Some of them forced weak smiles, attempting to greet her with what little strength they had left.


    She was not a leader in the traditional sense. Yet, after this battle, these soldiers saw her as one. They had entrusted their lives to her, their command, and their trust. They believed she could lead them to happiness, to victory.


    Though she knew she had not given a single order that could be deemed wrong, and though the situation could have been far worse, the sight before her moved her.


    Athena had witnessed countless deaths, yet in this moment, seeing these wounded men stirred something deep¡ªa flicker of warmth within her cold heart.


    She couldn¡¯t help but wonder: if circumstances had been different, if her plans had been just a bit more flawless, perhaps fewer of them would lie here, suffering.


    Outside, the celebration of victory raged, yet inside, it felt like a hell where death itself passed judgment.


    As she looked over the wounded taxi soldiers, Athena knew they were brave, undaunted warriors.


    She stepped forward and placed her hand gently on one soldier¡¯s shoulder. ¡°You are all valiant warriors,¡± she said softly. ¡°Do not lose hope. We will do everything we can to help you recover.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve won this battle! And we will win the next one!¡±


    Though it was difficult for them to move, they summoned enough strength to respond to her, though none employed any special abilities in doing so.


    Athena retreated to a quiet corner to collect her thoughts, only to be interrupted by the unmistakable sound of Paopao barging in, a large chicken leg in hand, looking at her with a confused expression.


    ¡°Go on, eat. I¡¯ll be here a while longer,¡± she said with a soft smile.


    Without a word, Paopao turned and left, his footsteps echoing. Athena noticed two younger ones hesitating to enter behind him. She smiled warmly.


    ...


    [ World Chat Channel ]


    051: ¡°Wow, not only did we discover a city state, we entered it and triggered a mission! But honestly, I¡¯m exhausted. All we¡¯ve been doing is moving bricks!¡±


    051: ¡°We¡¯ve got the corpse of a giant dragon here! I can¡¯t even imagine¡­ I¡¯ve never seen anything like it before!¡±


    076: ¡°The city state here seems open to us too.¡±


    059: ¡°What the heck? Why isn¡¯t it available to us?¡±


    088: ¡°We¡¯re going to die! Our area¡¯s under attack!¡±


    ...


    A girl in a magic cloak struggled in the swamp, while a boy dressed in a similar cloak frantically tried to pull her out, to no avail.


    True Heart couldn¡¯t bear to watch any longer. He pulled out a potion, dropped two drops into the swamp, and finally managed to free her.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you use this earlier? I had to deal with all this myself!¡± Magic King grumbled as he dragged his sister out.


    As soon as Witch¡¯s Cloak was removed, she cast a purification spell on herself, feeling a sense of relief. She didn¡¯t stop her brother, but neither did she join in.


    Nearby, a person riding a massive black snake rolled his eyes. ¡°Idiots,¡± he muttered, patting the black phosphorous snake beneath him and signaling for it to hurry.


    True Heart adjusted his glasses, his expression tightening. He decided not to engage with the lunatic; he had no time for such nonsense¡ªhe needed to find more players.


    As others fled toward the battle¡¯s edge or the white zone, they found themselves being pushed further into the black zone, searching for other players along the way. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    No one knew what the system had in store for them.

 Chapter 178 | Trust, Attribute Enhancement And Maxed Skills

    Chapter 178 | Trust, Attribute Enhancement And Maxed SkillsIn the end, Athena attended the victory banquet. As the commander of the operation¡ªor "captain," as some referred to her¡ªit was essential for her to be present. Such occasions were vital for boosting morale.


    The atmosphere was jubilant, a stark contrast to the recent battle they had survived. Revelers drank excessively, their voices resonating with laughter and lively conversation. Starshine Five, who hadn¡¯t ceased talking since the event began, was moved to tears by the food. It was so delicious that it evoked memories of meals he hadn¡¯t had in years, the taste of proper sustenance that had long eluded him.


    Around him, many participants were visibly exhausted, their energy spent. Yet they too partook in the feast. A few, however, seemed distracted, their thoughts preoccupied with other matters.


    Athena, having been persistently approached with drinks and conversation, quietly withdrew from the banquet halfway through. The mechanical dragon¡¯s carcass, massive and imposing, was far too valuable to be left unattended. With skilled technicians on hand, breaking it down through conventional methods was out of the question; the potential loss of materials was too significant.


    Unconsciously, she found herself wandering to the dissection area. There, several burly men were measuring and analyzing the dragon¡¯s remains with tools whose purposes were unclear. As Athena approached, one of the men¡ªa middle-aged individual with a white cloth tied around his head¡ªimmediately strode towards her.


    ¡°Commander Athena! Hahaha, in all my years, I¡¯ve never had the chance to dissect such a colossal beast. Today, I can truly say I¡¯ve learned something new!¡± he exclaimed, wiping his hands on his clothing as he drew nearer.


    ¡°Rest assured, we¡¯ll handle this swiftly. The dragon¡¯s body contains countless precious materials. Once we¡¯re finished, everything of value will be delivered to you,¡± he assured her.


    After a brief exchange, during which Athena was updated on the progress, she quietly returned to her quarters, the weight of exhaustion settling over her.


    The recent departure of the former leader had left the estate vacant. Athena, having earned universal respect through her accomplishments, was encouraged to reside there. She had no objections. The estate was vast, with many rooms to choose from, yet she opted for one of the rarely used guest rooms instead of the master suite. Traces of the former owner¡¯s life lingered faintly, remnants she planned to address later.


    The most excited inhabitants of the estate were Paopao and his companions. After their ¡°friendly exchanges,¡± they had, under Mikmik¡¯s leadership, claimed the largest and most luxurious master bedroom. The three little ones turned the room into chaos, rolling and tumbling within it.


    Athena reclined on her bed and opened her system panel. Despite the completion of several group-oriented tasks, she hadn¡¯t received immediate rewards. However, the missions had yielded valuable results. The monsters she had slain, though not entirely by her hand, still contributed to her experience thanks to her allies¡¯ efforts. The recent defeat of the Dark Minion¡¯s clone had also granted her a significant experience boost. Even the weaker monsters added enough experience to make a noticeable difference.


    [ Experience: 3453 ]


    With each close call and subsequent survival, Athena felt herself growing stronger, her ability to endure improving through every trial. She enhanced her attributes again and focused on upgrading her skills. Just as she prepared to level all her skills to ten, she realized she could only upgrade two.


    [ Skill Breakthrough lv10 requires 1000 experience ]


    After some consideration, Athena chose two skills: and .


    [ Skill Breakthrough in Progress... Combining player-related information... Skill changes successful! ]


    ...


    Name: Athena Ravencroft


    Experience: 513


    Title: Proactive Warrior


    Race: Human S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Gender: Female


    Attributes:


    Strength: 10 (Up by 2.7)


    Speed: 10 (Up by 2.7)


    Agility: 10 (Up by 2.4)


    Mental Power: 10 (Up by 1.6)


    Skills:


    lvmax: Attach strength to a weapon, adding 10 points of damage per attribute point. When mental power is infused, merge with the weapon, controlling it freely within a 50-meter radius.


    lvmax: Exceptional dynamic vision with advanced tracking and counter-tracking abilities. A natural hunter, instilling fear in prey. Based on a strength comparison, a successful judgment stuns the enemy for one second.


    lv10 (Up by 5): Greatly enhances body flexibility, enabling complex movements and subtle facial bone adjustments.


    lv10 (Up by 5): Instantly calm yourself, resisting mental negative effects in combat, and increasing efficiency by 45% in non-combat periods. Cooldown: 2 hours. Duration: 2 hours.


    : Cannot be upgraded. Grants teammates (exceeding three) +10 mental power and courage. When commanding an army of 500+, soldiers gain immunity to 50% of mental attacks, a courage buff, and +1 strength.


    [ Attribute points can no longer be increased through experience! ]


    ...


    This was the most significant enhancement Athena had experienced, yet it occurred without backlash. Unlike the usual agonizing transformation of bones or meridian awakening, this process felt almost mundane, leaving her with a warm, pleasant sensation and no discomfort.


    Curious, she picked up a silver cup without using any skills. With a light tap, two small holes appeared in the cup. Her newfound strength was evident, a combination of her intense combat experience and the high-quality food she had consumed.


    Over 500 experience points remained, yet she found no immediate use for them. ¡°Attributes can no longer be increased through experience¡±¡ªa statement she hadn¡¯t encountered since her attributes reached five points. Could the same limitation apply at ten? The possibility seemed likely. Previously, she had unlocked further progression with the golden card¡¯s challenge. But upon checking, that path was no longer available.


    She had intended to enter a simulation for combat practice to solidify her strength but realized she had only a handful of silver coins remaining, the rest entrusted to Grey as a deposit. Though she had collected many World Stones, only one remained, and she couldn¡¯t afford to waste it.


    Athena retrieved the from her bag. The mirror¡¯s surface gleamed brightly, its clarity undiminished. Yet as she stared into it, her eyes widened in shock. The reflection staring back was unmistakably hers¡ªbut her hair was now silver.

 Chapter 179 | Switching Factions

    Chapter 179 | Switching FactionsAthena felt her hand tighten involuntarily around the mirror. She stared at her reflection in disbelief.


    In the blink of an eye, the mirror reverted to showing her usual appearance. Yet she knew it wasn¡¯t a trick of the glass. Just moments ago, she had caught a glimpse of a streak of white in her hair.


    She had originally taken out the artifact Heart¡¯s Desire to consult it about her plans for improving her attribute points. Instead, it had delivered an earth-shattering revelation.


    Her body felt better than ever, with no signs of illness or weakness. But this inexplicable flash of white hair had unsettled her deeply. Whatever questions she had about her attributes could wait until tomorrow; she needed to address this anomaly now.


    Unfortunately, the mirror''s inscriptions swirled and shifted chaotically, resolving into nothing but smudged, indecipherable marks. At last, one faint word emerged:


    What could possibly be good about abruptly turning gray-haired overnight? Though her appearance had returned to normal, the fleeting change left her bewildered. Try as she might, she couldn¡¯t fathom how this was anything to celebrate.


    Athena¡¯s pragmatic side took hold. If worse came to worst, she could live with white hair. Such things didn¡¯t trouble her for long.


    She rummaged through her bag and took out a shimmering golden package, the last unopened one she had saved. Outwardly composed, her hand trembled slightly as she approached it, and her heart raced faster than during any battle she¡¯d fought against monsters.


    The golden package opened with deliberate slowness, revealing¡­ another box.


    This box was unlike any she had seen before, split evenly into stark black and pristine white, as if embodying two extremes of power. Its surface was adorned with intricate, mysterious carvings, not mere decorations but ancient runes. Further encasing the box were countless fine iron chains, their origin unknown, as if sealing the object within against the world.


    The sight exuded an aura of solemn mystery, stirring a powerful curiosity within her to unlock its secrets.


    It was uncannily reminiscent of the fabled Pandora¡¯s box.


    Just as the thought crossed her mind, she snapped to her senses, quickly tucking the item back into her system¡¯s inventory. Instantly, that peculiar compulsion dissipated.


    ...


    [ Congratulations, you have obtained: Whisper x1 ]


    Whisper


    Quality: ???Category: ???Description: The murmur of the world¡¯s oldest entities. Do not use it unless absolutely certain. Legend has it that merely coming into contact with these whispers grants boundless power, immense wealth, supreme authority¡ªor potentially death. You may even become the next Whisperer. Everything depends on your choices and the whims of fate.


    ...


    Black and white¡­ Two extremes, ancient and enigmatic. It could be nothing other than the celestial dichotomy unique to this world. Unlike the sun and moon of a normal realm, this world evoked only stark contrasts: day and unyielding darkness.


    Regardless of its association, Athena felt confident that this box was no benevolent artifact.


    Even in her system inventory, the box¡¯s chains writhed ceaselessly, though fortunately, it showed no signs of escaping.


    ...


    Ever since stealing the bald man¡¯s twin hammers, Athena hadn¡¯t considered returning them. To her surprise, the weapons resonated with her Black Abyss Axe, much like the colossal sword she had taken from a defeated skeleton.


    It was reminiscent of when her Moonlight Arrow had fused with another bow.


    Now, with all three weapons laid on the ground, she cautiously moved them closer to the Black Abyss Axe. Sure enough, the axe¡¯s shaft began to tremble faintly.


    ...


    [ Blue Flame Greatsword ] Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Quality: ExcellentCategory: Heavy WeaponDurability: 50/50 (Repairable, non-upgradable)


    ...


    [ Earthshatter Twin Hammers ]


    Quality: ExcellentCategory: Heavy WeaponDurability: 50/50 (Repairable, non-upgradable)


    ...


    [ Detected: Compatible weapons can merge with Black Abyss Axe. Proceed? ]


    "Yes"


    Under the system¡¯s influence, the twin hammers and greatsword slowly drifted toward the Black Abyss Axe. Despite their resistance, the weapons¡¯ struggles were futile. Over time, the repulsion between them lessened, and they drew closer until they touched.


    Gradually, the three weapons melted into a pool of black liquid, like molten metal imbued with life. The fluid pulsated, emitting an eerie glow, as if sentient. It flowed steadily into the Black Abyss Axe, fusing completely.


    When the process concluded, the axe erupted with unprecedented brilliance. Its blade gleamed with a frigid, razor-sharp light, exuding an aura of intimidation and irresistible dominance.


    ...


    [ Black Abyss Axe ]


    Quality: Extremely Rare (Unique)Category: Growth WeaponDurability: 50/50 (Repairable, upgradable)Skill: Devour¡ªWounds inflicted by the Black Abyss Axe cannot heal naturally. When injuries overlap excessively, the corrupted wounds spread, causing secondary damage until the enemy is consumed.


    ...


    Within the Guardian Fortress, there was no darkness. But beyond its walls lay endless night.


    Big Bear, trembling, nearly let out a cry when she stepped on a withered twig.


    The forest had long been overrun by treants of various sizes, but this group stood apart. Jet-black, their bark bore grotesque faces. Even in stillness, they radiated a chilling menace. Fortunately, they appeared dormant for unknown reason.


    The elderly man leading the way shot her a disapproving glare before continuing deeper into the forest. Occasionally, alert monsters glanced at them but made no move, sparing Big Bear despite her companion¡¯s presence.


    ¡°Are you sure about this, Elder One?¡± she whispered nervously.


    ...


    [Special Condition Detected. Hidden Trait Unlocked!]


    [Change Guardian Faction? Yes/No]

 Chapter 180 | The Players

    Chapter 180 | The PlayersThe Goblin Tribe was known as the renegades of darkness, but not all goblins embraced betrayal.


    Once, an elder known simply as Gambore had a name, and in his prime, he was the leader of the Goblin Tribe. However, his reign was marred by a lack of leadership skills. A single mistake plunged him into irredeemable ruin. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When the Goblin Tribe chose to defect and flee from darkness, Gambore stayed behind. He firmly believed he was in the right.


    What others perceived as the endless terror of darkness was, in his eyes, a brilliance far surpassing daylight.


    ¡°Elder Gambore? Elder Gambore!¡±


    A panicked and uneasy female voice snapped him back to reality.


    Big Bear could feel the oppressive atmosphere in this place. Every creature around her was far more powerful than she was, and the barely concealed pressure emanating from them filled her with dread, making her want to turn back.


    Her instincts screamed retreat. The shelters in her region had almost all been destroyed. For the first time, her abilities had failed her. That monstrous being, relentless and unstoppable, had targeted her shelter.


    Just as she believed all was lost, Gambore had appeared and whisked her away to safety.


    The brush with death left Big Bear breathless. No matter how many times she experienced it, the feeling of her life slipping away never became any less terrifying.


    To claim she was unafraid would be a lie.


    At that moment, Gambore asked her, ¡°Do you want to change the way you live?¡±


    ¡°Do you want to be on the winning side?¡±


    Shortly afterward, she received a strange special mission from the system. What was even more bizarre was that ever since accepting the mission, no monster had dared to attack her.


    Gambore had pressed on relentlessly, leading her to a peculiar place surrounded by towering black spires.


    The area teemed with all kinds of monsters. Finally, Big Bear realized what felt so off about this place¡ªit was a mirror image of a human city, but its inhabitants were not human. They were monsters.


    As she neared the base of the city walls, a system prompt flashed before her eyes:


    [Special Condition Detected. Hidden Trait Unlocked!]


    [Change Guardian Faction? Yes/No]


    Was this the so-called path to victory? If she refused, she would likely meet her end here.


    [Yes]


    [Warning! Warning!]


    [Player Big Bear''s Guardian Faction has been changed! Please note: Your selected Guardian Faction is¡ªDarkness!]


    [Guard your faction. Be loyal to your faction. Crush the opposing faction!]


    [Player Big Bear¡¯s Guardian Faction can no longer be changed! Your data is being erased¡­]


    ...


    "Ah!"


    A disheveled woman slammed her head onto her desk, her bloodshot eyes seething with hatred and frustration.


    Her desk was cluttered with countless files, documents, and a meticulously arranged schedule of tasks yet to be tackled.


    Ultimately, she let out a pained groan of anguish.


    Becoming a leader was far harder than Athena had ever imagined. And this time, she didn¡¯t even have competent aides by her side.


    The chaos engulfing the city presented countless challenges, far more than she had anticipated.


    Repairing the city walls wasn¡¯t merely a matter of stacking stones. These defensive structures required intricate craftsmanship and complex methods to restore.


    The three days allotted for the task were woefully insufficient. Despite their best efforts, they had only managed to produce a subpar replacement.


    She had spent the days inspecting progress in various departments, mediating minor disputes, mourning fallen soldiers, treating the wounded, and finding homes for players.


    Three days. Three relentless, spirit-crushing days. Even amidst this grueling schedule, she still carved out time to craft her explosive spheres.


    The city state¡¯s material reserves paled in comparison to the resources her loyal giant bees had once scavenged for her in the Black Forest.


    Even so, she managed to produce forty-seven explosive spheres. Her improving skills showed in the quality: thirty-one were of standard grade, while sixteen were of superior quality.


    With one hand propping up her weary face, she forced herself to relax. Once she felt marginally restored, she began methodically tidying up her appearance.


    Her hair, a disheveled mess resembling that of a madwoman, was the first thing she fixed.


    Today marked the third day. Tomorrow was the battle.


    For three days, she had tirelessly prepared, refining plans and strategies. Now, at last, it was time to test the results of her efforts.


    Taking a deep breath, she left her room.


    The resources had been replenished, and the troop strength bolstered. While the city walls couldn¡¯t compare to their former glory, they were functional enough to serve their purpose.


    Her deployments were in place. All she could do now was pray that everything went according to plan.


    As she approached the camp of wounded soldiers, an old man emerged, walking unsteadily. The intense workload of the past few days had left him on the verge of collapse.


    No one truly enjoyed work.


    Even as he moved, the elderly man pounded his aching back with a gnarled hand.


    Though Athena wasn¡¯t particularly close to him or the others, casual conversation with them wasn¡¯t a problem.


    His hair was snow-white. Athena had asked for his name several times, but the cunning old man always evaded the question. Since it wasn¡¯t an urgent matter, she hadn¡¯t pressed him further.


    ¡°Captain Athena,¡± he addressed her.


    Although she had been promoted in the city''s hierarchy, the group of prisoners who had followed her here still referred to her as Captain Athena.


    ¡°Are you really sure we can trust those people?¡±


    Though aged, his eyes remained sharp, scrutinizing her with unwavering intensity, as if trying to discern any hesitation.


    Athena raised an eyebrow. This was the fourth person to ask her that question in recent days.


    From the beginning, it seemed, ordinary residents were indifferent. But those privy to the truth harbored an ingrained distrust, even hatred, for the players¡ªthose third-world invaders.


    Human nature often reacted with fear and unease toward the uncontrollable and the unknown. But their aversion to the players went far beyond that. It was a resentment deeply rooted in something else.


    Some of these individuals had never encountered third-world players, while others had only heard rumors. Yet their reactions were strangely unified.


    To them, players were utterly untrustworthy and completely unusable.


    Athena wasn¡¯t a native of this world, and she couldn¡¯t understand their perspectives. Neither could she afford to speak carelessly.


    The mistrust toward players had been evident in the Sol Kingdom, and it persisted in this new nation.


    Even during her journey to the goblin lands, their hostility was apparent. It suggested one chilling possibility: she and her allies were not the first players to step into this world.


    So, where had the original players gone? Why had the world seemingly erased all traces of their existence?


    Just what exactly is the reason why she and others are transported in this world?

 Chapter 181 | The Masked Entity

    Chapter 181 | The Masked EntityAs Athena''s thoughts deepened, confusion and uncertainty grew like a labyrinth unraveling before her.


    ¡°I understand,¡± Athena replied, her voice unwavering as always. From the very beginning, their stances had diverged.


    Was she implying that she understood their untrustworthiness and would remain vigilant? Or that she understood his proposition, regardless of its intent? Either interpretation sufficed.


    The old man gave her a long, penetrating look, his brows furrowed deeply like a sagging character. Finally, he shook his head, sighed, and walked away.


    Athena was unsurprised by his reaction. It was exactly as expected.


    She instinctively opened the battlefield map again, hoping for any new developments. Though she held little hope in her heart, a faint thread of expectation lingered.


    Yet, the moment she activated the dynamic map, the displayed scene stunned her.


    The map¡ªa kaleidoscope of chaos¡ªshowed an area obscured by darkness where the terrain shifted relentlessly. Hills fractured and split open, giving birth to an unending flood of red dots pouring forth from the abyss below.


    The sheer scale dwarfed anything they had faced before. This was no ordinary swarm; it numbered not two thousand but possibly three thousand monsters. The figure was staggering¡ªtriple their last encounter.


    ...


    [Clash of Peaks]


    Difficulty Level: ??


    Final Phase: Clash of Peaks


    Mission Reward: All that was lost shall be reclaimed.


    Mission Penalty: None.


    Description: Victory cannot be achieved through mere defense and retreat. Defeat your foes and press forward. Take the offensive to turn the tide. Seize the mountain buried in darkness to claim victory!


    ...


    Athena stared at her system interface, momentarily speechless.


    The system had too much faith in her¡ªa mission with an incalculable difficulty level, dropped squarely in her lap. Conquering a mountain entrenched in darkness?


    Even with the vast resources currently concentrated within the stronghold, they were uncertain if they could even hold the city against such monstrous numbers. To think of mounting an offensive?


    For the players, venturing into the darkness without specialized tools was tantamount to suicide. Yet, despite the swelling anger coursing through her, Athena swiftly called over a taxi soldier, ordering him to alert all outposts and prepare for combat readiness.


    The players scattered throughout the city shared a collective expression of shock and confusion.


    ...


    [Faction Mission]


    Faction: White Grand Empire (Defend the Stronghold)


    Mission Rewards: Shelter Upgrade Kit x1, High-Quality Weapon x1, Gold Package x1, Silver Package x10, Silver Coins ??? (based on performance)


    Mission Penalty: Death


    Description: Do everything in your power to protect your faction. Do not desert your post. Follow orders. You are now soldiers, and soldiers obey commands!


    ...


    "Follow orders?" It meant defending the stronghold together. They weren¡¯t fazed by the penalty of death; after all, if the city fell, their chances of survival were slim anyway.


    What baffled them most was the unusually generous mission rewards. The rewards were absurdly enticing.


    Athena stood atop the city wall. Behind her, the empire¡¯s banner fluttered proudly in the wind. Soldiers moved with precision, each performing their assigned tasks with practiced efficiency.


    Though a faint undercurrent of tension lingered, it was largely replaced by calm determination.


    Turrets swiveled, aligning their barrels toward the distant horizon. The enemy was yet unseen, but the red dots on the map blotted out half the display.


    Beyond the visible 50/50 radius, darkness reigned, impenetrable and absolute.


    Despite her growing familiarity with the stark contrast between this world¡¯s daylight and darkness, the dichotomy still unsettled Athena. Two extremes¡ªlight and dark¡ªperpetually vying for dominance over the land.


    The monsters continued to amass but showed no immediate signs of attack. This lull did not ease their vigilance; instead, it heightened it.


    Three days had passed. Surely, someone had already sent word to the Imperial Capital about their plight. By now, the capital should have received the news. But what would their response be?


    Perhaps when the first stronghold was assaulted, someone had already set out as a messenger. Was that courier now racing toward them?


    The corpses of slain monsters were scavenged for their most valuable components. Anything else was destroyed¡ªreduced to ashes through the simplest, most brutal methods.


    Shards of broken armor and stones left behind were strewn across the outer walls, serving as obstacles to hinder enemy movements. Unfortunately, they still hadn¡¯t discovered a suitable replacement for earthworks. Once again, they would have to rely on the turrets¡¯ firepower to erect icy barriers.


    Seconds ticked by in an atmosphere so heavy it felt suffocating. Yet outside the walls, everything remained eerily calm, mirroring the previous two days. No new movements appeared on the map.


    Despite the system¡¯s issued orders, was it possible these monsters wouldn¡¯t act until the following day?


    Just as Athena pondered, her gaze fell upon a small shadow.


    It wasn¡¯t a shadow creeping out of the darkness; it had simply appeared. There was no warning, no prelude. It emerged abruptly at the boundary between light and dark.


    The area was imperceptible to ordinary eyes. But for Athena, equipped with dark-vision, it stood out starkly.


    The map revealed nothing of its presence. The system gave no alerts.


    Yet, the moment it appeared, Athena¡¯s instincts screamed!!!


    The figure bore a humanoid shape but exuded none of the traits of humanity.


    Layers of ragged, ill-fitting clothes covered its body, stained with dark splotches of blood¡ªa patchwork of scavenged remains from countless victims. Black gloves concealed its hands, and its face was hidden behind a grotesque wooden mask. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The mask¡¯s craftsmanship was crude, its features twisted into an unrecognizable caricature. The narrow slits for eyes formed an eerie, perpetual smile, sending shivers down her spine!


    The figure took a single step forward, its foot crushing the shards of stone beneath it into dust.


    From the moment she saw it, Athena¡¯s sense of unease heightened. This creature wasn¡¯t ordinary. It seemed to be surveying the stronghold¡ªa puppeteer controlling the chaos from behind the scenes.


    Though the distance wasn¡¯t far, it wasn¡¯t close either. Yet Athena¡¯s instincts flared with alarm.


    Without hesitation, she raised her Moonlight Bow and loosed an arrow straight toward the humanoid figure.


    Simultaneously, artillery fire zeroed in on its position. But as soon as the barrage struck, the figure vanished without a trace, as though it had never been there at all.

 Chapter 182 | Tower Defense Game! City Defense Against 3000 Monsters!

    Chapter 182 | Tower Defense Game! City Defense Against 3000 Monsters!As the fleeting figure vanished into the shadows, Athena felt her heart tighten.


    That brazen intruder¡ªso unreservedly exposing themselves here¡ªseemed utterly devoid of fear. Amid the high-strung atmosphere, the battlefield map in Athena¡¯s hand showed the ominous red tide advancing like waves, surging steadily in their direction.


    Noxus still gripped Athena¡¯s , a weapon that had proven to be a devastating asset. In his hands, its full potential could be unleashed.


    ¡°They¡¯re coming,¡± Athena¡¯s voice was low and resolute, yet her eyes betrayed a weight she could not conceal.


    The soldiers at her side hung on her every movement. A taxi soldier nearby turned immediately, relaying the message to the others, his face etched with worry and unease.


    Athena¡¯s gaze pierced the darkness, locked on the encroaching threat. Taking a deep breath, she turned to the assembled troops.


    Over 3,000 monsters were bearing down on them¡ªa crushing pressure for anyone. Just three days ago, they had endured an unprecedented battle, yet here they stood again.


    Orders were issued, and the soldiers moved swiftly, snapping into battle-ready positions. Each soldier clutched their weapons tightly, their faces marked with determination and courage.


    Standing behind the gunners, Athena exuded a presence that brought a measure of reassurance to her troops. It wasn¡¯t merely her commands or her formidable War Queen skill but her very charisma that inspired them.


    As time dragged on, the tension grew palpable. Only Athena¡¯s battlefield map revealed the advancing horde, leaving the others to wait anxiously in uneasy silence.


    At last, a faint sound stirred in the distance. Something was approaching. The players gripped their weapons, silent prayers echoing in their hearts.


    Compared to regular taxi soldiers, every player was an elite. Not because of superior training or remarkable skills, but due to their peculiar abilities and the myriad unique items they carried. If a vanguard was needed, players were always the first choice. Athena had made no exception.


    Among the players, a few couldn¡¯t hold their tongues after a few drinks, spilling their tasks with unabashed honesty. Despite the difficulty of her own mission, Athena knew the players¡¯ lot was no less harsh.


    Pushing their limits to defend the city, the players were essential to her strategy. Athena meticulously prepared volatile Fireburst Orbs, compressing them to their limits for maximum destructiveness¡ªa perilous 150% of their normal power.


    These orbs, buried strategically outside the city, were coupled with barrels of gunpowder and incendiary agents beneath the earth, forming a deadly network in the darkness. Dozens of players with stealth and survival skills were stationed nearby to operate in the shadowy terrain.


    With a visibility range of only 50 meters, detonating such explosives carried risks. The walls they had painstakingly repaired could be caught in the blasts. Thus, the task fell to the players.


    Suddenly, a shadow darted through the gloom, followed by more, emerging like phantoms. They charged toward Athena¡¯s forces with terrifying speed.


    Starshine Five¡¯s eyes widened, a fierce resolve surging within him. He raised his weapon high, roaring, ¡°For victory! Charge!¡±


    Before anyone could echo his rallying cry, several players mounted their steeds and dashed off, dividing into three teams and heading in different directions. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena observed their movements closely. The horde, once fixated on her forces, splintered as the teams drew them away, lured into pursuit by these brave provocateurs.


    Adrenaline surged through Starshine Five as he sprinted, his body burning with heat. Each player carried city-provided protective mechanisms, but they all knew their survival hinged on running as far as possible.


    Reaching a safe distance, Starshine Five turned, pulling an object from his pouch and hurling it backward with all his might. Simultaneously, similar actions played out across the three teams. Almost as if choreographed, the explosives were triggered in unison.


    The resulting explosions were cataclysmic. The earth quaked as if the apocalypse had arrived. Fire erupted into the sky, illuminating the heavens in crimson and orange. Towering columns of smoke billowed upwards, forming massive black mushroom clouds that consumed the horizon. The air grew searing, suffocatingly hot.


    Within the blast radius, the monsters were obliterated, their bodies reduced to fragments. Flesh and blood rained down, accompanied by the nauseating stench of charred remains. Creatures once terrifying in their might were annihilated by the raw, unfathomable power.


    In the aftermath, silence reigned. The battlefield lay in eerie stillness, as if life itself had been erased. Yet, the next wave of monsters was already advancing, unrelenting. The scarred land bore three colossal craters, a grim testament to the devastation.


    Though the players had underestimated the magnitude of the blasts, they managed to escape unscathed. Athena, ensuring their survival, had equipped them with the best tools available.


    Back in the city, the players returned safely, shaken but alive. The craters, now gaping barriers, trapped and severed the advancing horde, forcing them to funnel into narrower pathways.


    The explosions had achieved their purpose. The monsters¡¯ forces were fragmented, their advance slowed. Even from afar, Athena and her troops felt the tremors and heat. The first phase of the battle plan had succeeded brilliantly.


    The lead wave of monsters, those who had trailed the fleeing players, now emerged into sight.


    ¡°Fire!¡± Athena commanded.


    The response was immediate. Taxi soldiers unleashed a relentless barrage of cannonfire.

 Chapter 183 | Unfair Strategies

    Chapter 183 | Unfair StrategiesThe sky blazed crimson under the unrelenting bombardment, as countless shells descended with overwhelming force. Beneath this fiery onslaught stood the focus of today¡¯s battle¡ªthe Dark Elves.


    To those who had encountered them, the Dark Elves were grotesque beings cloaked in darkness. Their charcoal-black skin was cracked and arid, resembling scorched earth. Slender, wiry limbs supported their diminutive frames. Their faces lacked refinement, featuring downward-slanted eyes and gaping mouths that oozed a sickly green saliva. Each held a crude wooden staff, exuding an aura of repulsion.


    The sight of them was enough to evoke instinctive disgust.


    But something felt off. Noticing this, Athena, the commanding officer, placed a firm hand on the shoulder of a nearby soldier.


    ¡°What are you seeing?¡± she asked, her tone laced with authority.


    The soldier, jolted back to awareness by her touch, shook his head vigorously before describing what he¡¯d witnessed.


    ¡°She¡­ she was exquisite,¡± he stammered, his eyes glazed as if caught in a lingering trance.


    The soldier¡¯s voice trembled as he painted an enchanting picture: skin of deep amethyst, hair cascading like a luminous waterfall down her back, glimmering with a subtle violet sheen. Her eyes, enigmatic and fathomless, seemed to hold the cosmos. Clad in an elegant black robe that billowed like butterfly wings in the wind, she wielded a slender wand adorned with a radiant gemstone, pulsating with potent magical energy. Her presence was magnetic, commanding attention and reverence.


    Yet the image was a lie.


    The Dark Elves lacked the elegance and allure of true elves. What they possessed was an illusionary ability to project such beauty. Their real strength lay not in formidable defense like the metallic monstrosities from the previous assault but in their agility and speed, coupled with a mastery of minor spells and potent illusions.


    Below the city walls, an ethereal figure appeared¡ªa vision of unparalleled beauty, tears streaming delicately down her face as she pleaded, her sorrow palpable.


    Under the continuous barrage of cannon fire, she crumbled, shattering like a fragile jade figurine. Yet, even as her figure fell, another arose in her place. The visage was identical, a hauntingly beautiful apparition beseeching mercy under divine radiance. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Some soldiers faltered, trapped in the illusions. Guilt seeped into their hearts, gnawing at their resolve.


    ¡°Why are we doing this?¡± whispered one. ¡°Why must we kill them? Are we truly justified?¡±


    Their determination wavered. Thoughts spiraled, questioning why they deserved to live while these exquisite beings perished. The darkness in their hearts festered, urging them to lower their weapons and shut down the artillery.


    Only the players remained immune, a grimace of revulsion on their faces.


    ¡°The prettier the illusion, the uglier the truth,¡± muttered one.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look!¡± Athena¡¯s voice boomed, augmented by a skill that made it irresistibly commanding.


    Her words sliced through the illusion¡¯s fog. Even those captivated found themselves instinctively obeying, clamping their eyes shut despite their lingering reluctance.


    With their eyes closed, the soldiers continued firing. The Dark Elves were too numerous to miss. Yet, even as the illusions dissolved, cold sweat beaded on their foreheads. The temporary reprieve brought clarity, but the root problem persisted.


    The illusion would seize them again the moment their eyes reopened.


    ¡°The only solution is to kill them,¡± Athena muttered grimly.


    This ability was insidious. No matter how steely one¡¯s will or robust one¡¯s mental fortitude, the illusion targeted the core of human emotions. It didn¡¯t simply seduce; it presented an irresistible reality, leaving the rest to human weakness.


    The situation was dire. Athena devised a desperate strategy: soldiers would open their eyes for only three seconds to aim and fire before cycling to the next group. Any soldier ensnared by the illusion would be shaken awake by the players.


    As the artillery barrage continued, Athena observed the battlefield. Though the Dark Elves¡¯ physical frailty made them vulnerable to explosions, they compensated with their relentless numbers. Each shell claimed dozens, but more emerged, spilling forth like a tide. Their hypnotic illusions remained a thorn in her side, but the army was managing¡ªfor now.


    After nearly an hour of combat, Athena began to feel a glimmer of hope. The defense was holding better than expected. She reasoned this wave might be deliberately weaker, preparing them for an even greater challenge ahead.


    Then, the ground shifted. Her optimism shattered as she noticed something alarming.


    The number of Dark Elves was increasing.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± she muttered, quickly activating the tactical map. The previously obstructed pathways hadn¡¯t been cleared. Instead, the creatures had begun to fill the trenches with the bodies of their fallen comrades, creating makeshift bridges of flesh and bone.


    ¡°They¡­ they¡¯re using their own dead?¡± she exclaimed, a chill running down her spine.


    Indeed, this wasn''t tower defense game anymore but one without rules, and nastiest strategies reigns supreme!


    As the pathways filled, the trickle of enemies grew into a deluge. The Dark Elves¡¯ numbers surged, doubling the pressure on the defenders. Meanwhile, their illusions continued to hinder the soldiers, and the scales of battle tipped precariously.


    To worsen matters, the Dark Elves began to wield their staves in earnest. What had seemed like decorative props now unleashed devastating power. They moved in unison, their motions weaving intricate patterns as they channeled energy. Small, pitch-black fireballs erupted from their staves, striking the ground with explosive force. Though diminutive in size, these projectiles left charred craters where they landed.


    One, then two, and soon an unrelenting hail of fireballs bombarded the walls. The air grew thick with acrid smoke, and the earth beneath the defenders turned to scorched wasteland.

 Chapter 184 | The Scales of War!

    Chapter 184 | The Scales of War!The dark elves lacked the climbing prowess and immense strength of the metallic monsters. Scaling the walls was beyond their capability. Their most viable strategy was to breach the walls or force the gates open. If their relentless bombardment with those sinister black spheres continued, it was only a matter of time before they pinpointed the wall¡¯s weakest spot¡ªthe hastily repaired section from the last battle.


    The sheer number of monsters surging forward seemed endless. Athena knew the walls must not be breached at any cost. Should they close the distance, disaster would be inevitable.


    Behind the monstrous horde, the dark elves advanced in a dense, unbroken wave. Though they lacked the overwhelming menace of the monsters, their endless numbers invoked a bone-deep dread¡ªa grim reminder of hopelessness, stretching as far as the eye could see.


    Their magical black spheres corroded whatever they touched. The walls blackened instantly upon impact, the surface scorched and pockmarked. If not for the wall¡¯s unique composition, it might have already crumbled under the relentless assault.


    Despite fierce artillery fire from Athena¡¯s forces, the advancing monsters¡¯ proximity rendered cannons less effective. Arrows and boulders became the primary weapons, but obstructed sightlines hindered precision, slowing the kill rate. The defenders couldn¡¯t keep up with the monsters¡¯ relentless advance.


    Moreover, the accumulation of firepower heightened the fire element¡¯s activity, strengthening the magical attacks of the dark elves. The scales of battle were tipping.


    Suddenly, amidst the chaotic barrage, the battlefield fell silent. Cannon fire ceased, and an eerie stillness enveloped the scene.


    The monsters, still charging under heavy artillery moments earlier, hesitated. Confusion flickered across their grotesque faces. The abrupt cessation of cannon fire was unsettling. Yet the pause fueled a dangerous assumption: the humans had exhausted their munitions. Greedy and malicious glints ignited in the monsters¡¯ eyes. Their assault grew frenzied, driven by the tantalizing prospect of victory. They surged forward, convinced the walls would soon fall.


    In their excitement, the illusions cast by the dark elves faltered. For a fleeting moment, the enchanting beauty masking their true forms dissipated, revealing grotesque visages. This brief glimpse of hideousness planted seeds of doubt in the hearts of the bespelled soldiers. The once-entranced defenders now regarded the dark elves with suspicion and unease.


    Amid the monsters¡¯ intensified assault, the defenders¡¯ cannons began to turn, their movements deliberate and measured. The pause had not signaled a lack of ammunition; on the contrary, it heralded the debut of a devastating new weapon.


    Soldiers opened a pristine crate and carefully loaded a shell into the cannon. The projectile hummed ominously as it slid into place. For a tense moment, it seemed as though the cannon might burst from the sheer energy coursing through it. Then, with a thunderous roar, it fired.


    The shell detonated amidst the monsters, unleashing a series of explosions. Sharp iron fragments, forged from the remains of defeated iron golems, shredded through the enemy ranks with the force of bullets. Even those lurking at the wall¡¯s base, previously safe from cannon fire, fell victim to the deadly shrapnel.


    Shells were loaded and fired in rapid succession. The defenders spared no effort, their relentless assault thinning the enemy ranks. For a fleeting moment, Athena entertained a wry thought: the ammunition division deserved a feast for their sleepless dedication. She quickly refocused, steeling her mind for the battle.


    Although the city lacked traditional mages, Athena had conscripted any player with even a trace of magical affinity. The pause in artillery fire had allowed the monsters to regroup, but the defenders¡¯ initial barrage had bought precious time, reducing the enemy¡¯s numbers and easing the pressure for the next phase.


    Athena knew the repaired barriers wouldn¡¯t hold indefinitely. The second wave of the monsters¡¯ assault would be even more ferocious. But she was ready to unleash her trump card¡ªa newly developed explosive weapon.


    ¡°Mage squad, prepare your spells!¡± she commanded.


    The mages responded in unison, chanting incantations that filled the air with vibrant, crackling energy. Flames, frost, and lightning surged forth, devastating the enemy lines. Ice walls rose to create a labyrinthine prison, funneling the monsters toward a single vulnerable point. However, the effort strained the mages, many of whom struggled to maintain the spells¡¯ potency.


    Some spells faltered, transforming into weak, watery orbs that barely hindered the enemy. Yet even imperfect spells had their uses. Drawing upon the city¡¯s wells and underground reservoirs, the mages redirected vast amounts of water, merging their magic to form a colossal tidal wave.


    ¡°Focus the water flow!¡± Athena ordered. The mages combined their efforts, summoning a torrent that surged forward like a mighty dragon. The wave crashed into the monsters, drowning many and scattering the rest. The defenders seized the opportunity.


    ¡°Attack!¡± Athena shouted.


    With renewed vigor, the soldiers launched their counteroffensive. Cannon fire resumed, magical spells illuminated the battlefield, and arrows rained down like deadly hail. The battlefield¡¯s tide began to shift, and the scales of war, once heavily weighted against them, now hung in tenuous balance.


    Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 185 | A City of Monster Nests

    Chapter 185 | A City of Monster NestsA colossal deluge surged forward from the horizon, akin to a tsunami in its scale and ferocity. The torrent, carrying an aura of unstoppable destruction, seemed intent on consuming everything in its path.


    This overwhelming scene resembled a legendary flood, a catastrophe of mythic proportions. But amidst the roaring waters churned countless monstrous forms, grotesque and nightmarish.


    These creatures were a patchwork of horror: some had limbs twisted into unnatural shapes, while others bore deep gashes from blades. They tumbled and flailed in the waters, struggling against the torrent''s force, but escape was futile. Their anguished screams mingled with the thunderous roar of the flood, creating a cacophony of despair. The illusions they once projected had shattered, revealing their true, hideous selves to all.


    Chaos reigned. Even the most seasoned mercenary troops, hardened by countless battles, wore grim expressions as they faced this surreal spectacle. The hideousness of the creatures defied description¡ªan ugliness so profound that it made one wish to look away, not out of fear but revulsion.


    Yet, at the command of Athena, the soldiers'' resolve did not falter. Their steel-eyed determination cut through the repulsion.


    The metallic missiles previously loaded into their turrets were swiftly swapped for ice-infused ammunition. With precision, the frost-laden shells erupted in a volley, each projectile streaking through the air like bolts of wrath. They raced toward the encroaching waters, striking with unerring accuracy.


    Upon contact, the furious floodwaters froze solid in an instant. The rolling waves transformed into glistening sheets of ice, halting their advance entirely. Struggling monsters within the waters were caught mid-motion, their writhing forms rendered immobile, encased in ice as if petrified in time.


    The ice spread relentlessly, creeping outward with an insatiable hunger. It devoured every drop of water it touched, crackling and snapping as it grew. The frozen tide fused with the surrounding icebergs, forging a seamless glacial expanse. What had been a maelstrom of chaos now lay silent, a frigid wasteland.


    The icy plain sparkled like a massive mirror, reflecting a blinding brilliance under the sun. Beneath this glacial veneer lay the grotesque forms of countless monsters, their bodies frozen in their most pitiful states.


    From high above, Athena and her troops looked down, stunned by the sheer magnitude of what they had achieved. It was an unprecedented feat, the kind of phenomenon that could only occur in this extraordinary world.


    The dark elves, stripped of their illusions and numerical superiority, now posed no significant threat. Without waiting for further orders, the artillery crews reloaded their weapons, their efficiency honed by the urgency of war.


    The battle was no longer an act of survival but one of inevitability. Time alone would finish what they had started.


    As the artillery fire once again lit up the skies, the scene took on an almost surreal beauty. The vibrant explosions painted the heavens in fiery hues, evoking the image of a celebratory fireworks display rather than a desperate struggle.


    The battlefield lacked the presence of a boss-level entity; the only anomaly had been the masked creature glimpsed at the beginning. Yet, that enigmatic figure had vanished without a trace, leaving behind a foreboding sense of unfinished business. This battle was not the climax but merely the prelude to a far greater conflict.


    When the fighting finally subsided, silence descended like a shroud over the field. The only evidence of the ferocious struggle lay in the battered city walls, riddled with bullet holes and stained with blood, and the scorched earth outside the gates, left ravaged by relentless bombardment.


    The air was thick with the acrid stench of gunpowder, a suffocating reminder of the carnage that had unfolded. Victory, though achieved, felt heavy. The jubilance of triumph was tempered by an undercurrent of unease.


    The city, once a secondary outpost, had now become the nation''s first line of defense. This newfound responsibility meant that battles like this one would only grow in frequency and intensity. The monsters would come in greater numbers, with higher ranks, and with new, unpredictable dangers.


    For the soldiers, this victory lacked the exuberant joy of their first triumph. Instead, it carried the weight of grim determination. They had succeeded today, but the war was far from over. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Athena silently tallied the gains. If she survived the final stages of her current mission, the shelter''s upgrade to Tier 5 would no longer be a dream. The corpses of high-level monsters collected during the last round of fighting had already exceeded the required quota. Adding today¡¯s harvest, the total would be astronomical.


    But the limited capacity of her inventory forced her to make tough decisions. Some lower-grade items would have to be discarded to make room.


    When her shelter was rebuilt, it would stand as a monument to unparalleled achievement. Yet, a pang of regret gnawed at her. If she had managed to secure the dark servant sigil during her earlier encounter, her gains would have been even more staggering. But survival had been her priority then, and preserving her life had been victory enough.


    The upcoming repairs to the city would require a massive effort. The one small consolation was that their next battlefield lay beyond these beleaguered walls. At least the already crumbling defenses would be spared further devastation.


    Yet, the task ahead was daunting. They would have to assault the monsters¡¯ stronghold directly.


    ...


    [Clash of Peaks]


    Difficulty Level: ??


    Final Phase: Clash of Peaks


    Mission Reward: All that was lost shall be reclaimed.


    Mission Penalty: None.


    Description:


    Seize the mountain buried in darkness. Capture it, and victory shall be yours! What lies beneath the peak that has summoned such hordes of monsters? Claim it, and all shall be revealed. The darkness will once again yield to the light.


    [ Prepare well. The mission will commence in three days! ]


    ...


    As Athena retreated from the battlefield, the system¡¯s quest panel updated. The map revealed the towering mountain that had birthed countless dark elves. Remarkably, the peak now appeared unscathed, as if its earlier fractures had never existed.


    But beneath the mountain loomed an unsettling revelation: a city, once vibrant with monstrous activity, now eerily desolate. Its emptiness exuded a quiet dread.


    The city was not filled with traditional buildings but sprawling nests. The largest, carved from wood, stood at its center, serving as a base.


    As the masked creature entered, a shadowy figure emerged beside it. A single tentacle, twisted and imbued with malevolent intent, coalesced into a humanoid form amidst a swirl of black smoke.


    "Ah, our defeated stray returns. Ross, your subordinates have all been annihilated, haven¡¯t they?" The figure¡¯s voice dripped with derision, its words a dagger of mockery.


    The masked creature, Ross, turned sharply. With a swift motion, he grasped the tentacle and crushed it, erasing its existence in an instant.


    Yet, as the tentacle dissipated, its master¡¯s voice lingered, taunting. "Don¡¯t forget the main event. Plenty of new recruits have joined lately. Who knows? You might be replaced."

 Chapter 186 | The Puppet

    Chapter 186 | The PuppetThe tendril grasped in his hand disintegrated, dissolving into wisps of black smoke that seeped through his clenched fist. The masked figure''s grip did not waver. Instead, it tightened further, knuckles whitening under the strain before he slammed his fist violently against the wall beside him.


    "Those despicable leeches! How dare they think they can replace me!" he snarled, his voice a guttural rasp, dark and oppressive.


    This muttered declaration seemed to rekindle his resolve. After all, they were merely subordinates. Replaceable. Expendable. One batch gone meant another could be summoned¡ªonly a matter of time. It was nothing worth fretting over.


    He moved cautiously to a wooden table nearby and picked up a small carving knife. The mask concealed any expression, but his eyes gleamed with an unusual intensity. Lowering his head, he fixed his gaze on a half-finished wooden puppet lying on the table, devoting his full attention to the work.


    With precision, he gripped the knife tightly and let its sharp tip skim the puppet¡¯s surface. Each stroke reshaped the wood, refining its contours and intricate details. Gradually, the puppet took form under his skilled hands, its lifelike appearance emerging as time wore on.


    His movements became more fluid, a rhythmic dance between blade and wood. The fervor in his eyes hinted at obsession, an all-consuming passion as though he were creating a new version of himself.


    After painstaking labor, the puppet¡¯s form became unmistakable. Its features were sharp and humanlike, its silhouette complete. The final step awaited: carving a mask identical to his own. This would be the most critical and defining touch.


    When the mask was finished, the puppet¡¯s eyes suddenly snapped open. It stirred, lifelike yet lifeless, its gaze empty. Despite its animated appearance, there was nothing behind those eyes¡ªno soul, no will.


    The masked figure regarded his creation with a blend of rapture and mania. Slowly, he removed his own mask, revealing a swirling void where his face should have been. Reaching up with deliberate movements, he inserted his hand into his eye socket. His fingers found a soft, yielding orb, which he gripped firmly and pulled free. The eye detached with a soft "pop," accompanied by a faint squelch and the sound of fluid trickling.


    There was no pain in his expressionless visage, as though this act of self-mutilation were trivial. Blood streamed down his face, painting his maskless countenance crimson, but he remained unmoved, indifferent to the gruesome scene.


    Holding the still-warm eye, he placed it before the puppet. Miraculously, the eye shrank and melded into one of the puppet¡¯s sockets, fusing seamlessly. The puppet now possessed two eyes: one authentic, the other artificial. Yet, there was no discernible difference between the two.


    For the first time, the puppet came alive.


    Its form began to expand, its body reshaping to mirror the masked man¡¯s stature. It parted its lips and, after testing several syllables, uttered its first words:


    "M-Master, what are your orders?"


    The masked man¡¯s manic fervor cooled slightly. A half-finished product, he thought. The puppet lacked autonomy, incapable of independent thought. Still, it would serve its purpose.


    "Guard this place," he ordered. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The command, though simple, was treated by the puppet as sacred. It stood rigid, awaiting further directives. The masked man paid it no additional heed. Among the remnants of the dissipated tendril, a ring lay on the ground. He retrieved it, slipping it onto his finger. With three taps on the ring¡¯s diamond, a portal materialized before him. Without hesitation, he stepped through.


    The puppet possessed only a third of the masked man¡¯s power, but it would suffice as a temporary guardian. If the masked man faced any misfortune, he could still return through the puppet.


    ...


    Hope Medallion


    Category: Medallion


    Attributes: Guardian, Daylight


    Quality: ???


    Description: A relic of a lost kingdom, still remembered by those who refuse to forget. Hailing from the Kingdom of Sol, the final guardian¡ªunbowed by darkness. In times of shadow, it shields against encroaching darkness.


    ...


    This ornate medallion, while beautiful, was once little more than a sentimental token commemorating the departed. When Athena received it from Alfred, it triggered no system prompt, nor did it display any significant properties. She assumed it was an ordinary keepsake.


    Until today.


    As her mission unfolded, the medallion stored in her system backpack began to change. It emitted a faint glow, akin to fireflies.


    Athena held the medallion in her palm, her fingers brushing over its surface repeatedly. Even without its transformation, she would have found another way to venture into the darkness, but its newfound properties solved one problem while presenting others.


    The first challenge lay with the mountain central to her mission. Other than it being the origin of the monsters, little was known about it. Its ability to divide and house creatures marked it as both extraordinary and dangerous.


    Her exploration team would likely face significant reductions. For the locals, entering the darkness was unthinkable, ingrained in them since childhood. They lacked the means and power to survive it.


    Among the players, a few could temporarily venture into the darkness, but most were ill-suited for prolonged operations. With three days remaining before the mandatory mission activation, these preparatory days were crucial.


    Scouting could begin early, possibly even triggering the mission ahead of schedule if conditions allowed. Vit might be suitable for recon, but unexpected events could occur. The subsequent assault, however, remained the focal point.


    As she weighed her options, Athena realized the optimal solution was her going alone.


    Among those capable of entering the darkness, her strength far surpassed the rest, making her the most likely to survive and escape danger. Yet her unique identity complicated matters. The players were fickle. The prisoners she brought were equally unreliable. As for the soldiers¡­


    Their loyalty remained uncertain.


    If Athena chose to leave the city to investigate, she would need to prepare for every contingency.

 Announcement At The End of Volume 3

Announcement At The End of Volume 3This chapter is missing , we are fix soon !


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