Chapter 30: Training Ground
Ren scanned the diverse array of quests: some called for monster slaying, others for item retrieval, and a few hinted at mysterious occurrences in specific Tower floors. Von, beside him, studied the board with equal intensity.
"From the 1st floor to the 4th floor is a free-roam area, which means there are no specific quests for those floors. We can freely take on quests or kill monsters to level up," Von explained.
"So, what did you do before in your dream to get stronger?" Ren inquired.
"I was so inexperienced at that time. I just kept following my group and doing quests. Sooner or later, I realized I should have focused more on killing a mob of monsters," Von admitted.
"What do you mean? Isn't it the same? You do quests, gain experience, and then level up," Ren said.
"Gaining experience points from quests is good, but leveling up from killing mobs of monsters can help you get stronger due to the additional points for your attributes, and you level up faster at the same time," Von clarified.
Ren nodded, absorbing the insight. "So, it's not just about completing quests, but also about actively seeking out and engaging monsters for a more holistic progression."
Von grinned, "Exactly. It's a combination of both. Quests provide specific rewards and challenges while hunting monsters offers a broader range of experiences and opportunities for growth."
As they continued scanning the bulletin board, Von spotted a notice that caught his attention. "Look at this, this is what I'm talking about."
[Bulletin Board]
Quest:
Kill Venomspine Spider
Request:
Venom Sac 0/20
Silk Threads 0/15
Venomspine Fangs 0/15
Difficulty: Hard
Rewards:
Gold coin +3500
"Venomspine spider? The reward is okay, but the difficulty..." Ren said.
"The difficulty is hard because the drop rate for these materials is low, so we're not sure how many spiders we will slay. The most important part of accepting quests like this is the boss. If we find their hideout, we can slay the Spider Queen," Von explained.
"So that's why the difficulty is hard. I guess it makes sense. It's better to take on a harder quest for more experience points from killing monsters, plus a chance to defeat a boss, than doing an easy quest just to level up," Ren concluded.
"Yup, we can level up faster at the same time get stronger," Von said
They approached the quest counter, where a guild representative took note of their choice.
"That's unusual for an adventurer to take a quest like this. Good luck, and remember to stay vigilant," the guild representative advised, handing them a map of the 2nd floor up to the 4th floor.
They left the guild and got ready to climb the tower.
"Aren't they generous, giving a map for three floors?" Ren said.
"Well, they benefit from it. They can easily obtain materials without doing it, thanks to the awakeners," Von said.
"I guess this is the help they can offer so that the quest will be smooth," Ren said.
"Let's go to the training ground first. I wanna try something," Von said.
Ren and Von made their way to the designated training ground. The area was spacious, with various targets for practicing combat skills.
Ren unsheathed his newly acquired Ethereal Harmony Blade sword and took a few practice swings. The blade glimmered with a faint spiritual energy, resonating with Ren's connection to the spirit.
"Check this out, Von. The sword can attune itself to different elemental and spiritual affinities," Ren explained as he focused his thoughts on the blade.
"The sword fit suits you, I guess luck is also a skill," Von said
Von unsheathed his sword and with the new ring, he got from the gatcha, focused on his thoughts and the sword responded, shifting its glow from a serene blue to a vibrant flame-like hue.
Ren watched in amazement as the blade transformed, reflecting Von's connection to the fire element.
"I want to try fusing my shadows with the flame," Von said
Ren raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Fusing your shadow companion with fire? That sounds interesting. How do you plan to experiment with it?"
Von grinned, "I want to see if the shadow can take on the properties of fire, maybe enhance its offensive capabilities or create some unique effects. Imagine a fiery shadow slashing through enemies – that could be a game-changer."
Ren chuckled, "Well, let's see the fiery shadow in action then. Give it a go!"
Von closed his eyes, focusing on his shadow companion. As he did, the shadow began to dance and twist, its edges tinged with a flickering flame. When Von opened his eyes, the shadow now bore the essence of fire.
Von's shadow companion underwent a magical transformation, becoming a delightful blend of cuteness and strength. The once shapeless shadow now resembled a playful creature you might encounter in a fantasy world.
The shadow had taken on a sleek form with a mischievous charm, and it glowed with warm, flickering hues reminiscent of a gentle flame. Animated sparks, like tiny stars, adorned its edges, adding a whimsical touch to its overall look.
Despite its adorable appearance, there was an unmistakable strength emanating from the fiery shadow. The flames, though soft, hinted at a powerful force ready to be unleashed. It stood by Von's side like a small yet mighty guardian, prepared to protect him with its newfound fiery essence.
As Von moved, the fiery shadow mimicked his actions, leaping and twirling in a playful dance. The combination of its cute exterior and potent fiery energy made it a one-of-a-kind companion, poised to face the challenges of the Tower with charm and strength.
"Whoa, that's impressive! A shadow on fire – never thought I'd see the day," Ren exclaimed.
Von smirked, "I guess my proficiency in dark magic has improved. Now, I can summon six shadows."
"I should call out Bell too to meet them," Ren said as he summoned Bell, his spirit.
Ren called out to the spirit realm, and with a radiant shimmer of light, Bell appeared beside him. Bell's presence brought a tranquil melody to the air, creating a serene atmosphere.
"Hey, Bell! Check out our fiery friends here," Ren said, pointing to Von's playful yet powerful fiery shadow companions.
Bell, a graceful spirit glowing with a translucent aura, acknowledged with a subtle inclination. The spirit's essence interacted harmoniously with the fiery shadow, forming a unique connection between the two mystical beings.
Von grinned, "Looks like they're hitting it off. It's fascinating how spirits and shadows can get along so well."
Ren felt a surge of excitement. "Okay, let's see what this fiery shadow can do in action, Von. Give it a shot!"
Von nodded, directing his focus to his shadow companion. The fiery shadow responded with heightened energy, its form now infused with the essence of fire. Von issued a series of commands, and the shadow moved with newfound agility, leaving behind trails of flickering flames.
The fiery shadow gracefully slashed through training dummies, its movements fluid and mesmerizing. The introduction of the fire element not only boosted its offensive capabilities but also created dazzling visual effects. Sparks danced in the air as the shadow moved, presenting a captivating display of magic.
Ren observed with keen interest, "Impressive! The fusion of shadow and fire brings an entirely new dimension to your abilities, Von."
Von grinned, clearly pleased with the outcome. "It's even better than I imagined. The fire element adds a dynamic touch to the shadow's attacks. This combo could be quite effective against certain types of enemies in the Tower."
Bell, the spirit, seemed to appreciate the fiery spectacle, its essence resonating with the magical display. The combined forces of Von's shadows and Ren's spirit created a unique team dynamic, promising versatility in facing upcoming challenges.
Turning to Von, Ren commended, "Well done! It seems our training ground is about to become much more exciting with these enhanced abilities. Now, let's head to the second floor and put them to the test against real challenges."
As they walked toward the entrance of the second floor, a crowd of people had gathered, blocking the way to the entrance.
"What's going on? Why are people gathering over there?" Ren said, looking serious as he observed the commotion.
"I guess it started," Von said, suddenly serious.
"Started what?" Ren asked.
"See those people lying down? Someone killed them," Von explained.
"What? Is that what I think it is?" Ren said, his expression turning grim.
"Yeah, people are starting to kill each other," Von confirmed.
"What? What can they achieve with that?" Ren questioned.
"Loots, items, player gold, and they can also gain experience from killing another awakener," Von clarified.
"What? How is that possible?" Ren exclaimed.
"I don't know if the reality is the same as my dream regarding that, but that's how it is," Von admitted.
"I can't believe it. I guess humans are much scarier than monsters. You know, I kept asking you about your dream before when everything was still normal, but you brushed me off every time I asked you. I'm curious why you're alone climbing the tower. Where was I?" Ren inquired.
Von paused for a moment, contemplating Ren's question. He took a deep breath before responding.
"Let's first climb to the 2nd floor, find a place to camp, and then I'll give you the answer to your question," Von said.