Ladies and gentlemen, as you witnessed, Anon has taken the lead in the race, and he shows no signs of slowing down. He races toward his objective, displaying no hint of fatigue or weariness," Seraphina spoke with unwavering determination, her voice carrying the weight of anticipation.
"Seraphina, I doubt Luna will accept defeat so easily. She will undoubtedly strive to reclaim her position in the race," Landon chuckled, his eyes gleaming with mischief.
"Well, we shall have to wait and see," Seraphina replied calmly, her gaze focused on the unfolding events.
"Damn it, I must take action," Seti muttered as she strode away from the noble students' section. Her mind raced with thoughts of vengeance and cunning strategies to derail Anon's unstoppable momentum.
"How can he jump so high? And an S-Rank skill? It's clear he's cheating. I thought they would back down after the food incident, but that bastard Anon... It's time to play my second card," Seti fumed with anger, her steps quickening as she navigated the school's corridors. Determined and fueled by her desire for victory, she sought to tip the scales in her favor.
Entering an empty room, Seti retrieved a small glass ball from her pocket, its surface shimmering with mystical energy. She held it tightly, her eyes narrowing with determination.
"Yes, ma'am?" a voice emanated from the ball, a loyal servant awaiting her command.
"Release them and ensure he doesn't make it past the next obstacle alive," Seti commanded, her voice laced with a chilling resolve.
"As you command, but what about the payment?" the voice inquired cautiously.
"You will receive payment once the job is done," Seti responded in a furious tone, her grip on the ball tightening.
"Y-Yes, ma'am."
Crack
Krrrr
The voice abruptly ceased, and the crystal ball shattered into countless fragments, a symbolic representation of Seti's unyielding determination to defeat anon.
"Utterly useless maggots," Seti muttered, her voice dripping with disdain, as she stepped out of the room, leaving behind the shattered remnants of her plan.
"As you can see, both our contestants are progressing toward the next hurdle, with Anon still in the lead, while Luna remains several kilometers behind him," Landon addressed the audience, his voice resonating with excitement.
"Seraphina, could you enlighten our viewers about the next hurdle in the race?" Landon inquired, his eyes fixated on Seraphina, awaiting her explanation.
"Of course! The next challenge is the 'Draven Nightshade Desert,'" Seraphina announced, her words infused with an air of mystery and danger.
[In the heart of this unforgiving kingdom lies the Draven Nightshade Desert, an arid expanse that defies mortal expectations and scoffs at the notion of life's fragility. This merciless wasteland stretches endlessly, its sandy dunes undulating like ancient serpents frozen in time. Here, sunlight suffocates beneath an eternal shroud of darkness, and the whispers of the wind carry tales of dread and despair.
At first glance, the Draven Nightshade Desert may appear desolate, but beware, for its true treachery lurks within the obsidian shadows that enshroud the land at nightfall. As twilight descends, the desert transforms into a realm of nightmares, a twisted theater of horrors orchestrated by the malevolent hand of the nocturnal realm. The once-hopeful stars become mere glimmers of false solace amidst the haunting abyss.
Within the inky blackness, the desert awakens with sinister life. Vicious creatures, born of darkness and solitude, emerge from their subterranean sanctuaries, their eyes gleaming with otherworldly malevolence. Predators lurk, their fangs poised to taste the essence of unsuspecting souls foolish enough to wander into this cursed domain. Beware the sand vipers, their scales shimmering like shards of midnight, waiting to strike with venomous precision. And behold the Draven Nightshade Scorpions, their pincers and stingers adorned with a venom that transforms life into a waking nightmare.
But it is not only the creatures that menace the unwary traveler. The very environment itself seems hell-bent on claiming souls. Shifting sands conceal treacherous sinkholes, ready to swallow the unsuspecting without a trace. Whirlwinds of razor-sharp grit assail all who dare venture forth, their relentless onslaught tearing at flesh and spirit alike. And as the temperature plummets, an icy chill seeps into the bones of those unfortunate enough to linger, freezing their hearts with unforgiving cold.]
"Woah, that sounds incredibly dangerous, Seraphina. It sends shivers down my spine," Landon commented, his eyes wide with awe.
"The cold in that desert at night is enough to claim lives, which is why only a few tribesmen dare to reside there. Will Anon be able to cross the desert? Or, more importantly, will he survive the ordeal?" Seraphina spoke, her voice laced with suspense, holding the audience captive.
"Oh, that's truly terrifying. Will both Anon and Luna overcome this perilous hurdle?" Landon asked, eager for Seraphina's insight.
"Luna possesses the advantage of being a werewolf, her blood running warmer than a human's. I believe she will navigate the desert with relative ease. As for Anon, the commoner, I remain uncertain," Jake chimed in, his voice brimming with curiosity.
"I've utilized a spell to analyze his body, and it appears that the commoner's mana is running low," Samantha interjected, her voice tinged with intrigue.
"I know that, Big Sis," Jake replied with confidence, his gaze fixed upon Anon.
"Whoa, you can do that?" Frank exclaimed in surprise, his eyes widening.
"Yes, witchcraft knows no limitations of distance. Haven't you heard?" Samantha replied, her voice carrying a hint of amusement.
"Well, I'm learning something new today, and it's absolutely fascinating. Can you use your powers to make him stumble right now?" Frank inquired eagerly, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.
"No, if a witch's spell fails, she faces twice the damage as a backlash," Jake interjected, his tone cautionary.
"Yes, my big brother is absolutely right. The commoner seems to possess a protective barrier that repels my spells. If I were to force my way through, I fear I would harm myself more than him," Samantha explained, her voice filled with a sense of caution.
"Wait, you call her big sister, and you call him big brother? Who among you is older?" Frank questioned, curiosity piqued.
"Neither of us is older. We were born on the same day, and we show mutual respect by using those titles," Jake clarified, a sense of pride in his voice.
"Yes, my big brother is correct," Samantha affirmed, a warm smile crossing her face.
"Thank you, Big Sis," Jake added gratefully.
'What an intriguing pair of siblings,' Frank mused, his thoughts filled with newfound respect.
"Who will be running next from our side?" Frank inquired, eager to know the next participant.
"I will take the chance." Samantha declared confidently, her eyes shining with determination.
"Another woman?" Frank exclaimed, his surprise evident.
"Pardon me?" Samantha turned around, a quizzical expression on her face.
'Oh, no, I forgot how much they value equality and respect,' Frank quickly realized his mistake.
"Hehe," Jake chuckled softly, finding amusement in the situation as he glanced at Frank.
"Haha, what I meant to say is, it's great to have another strong competitor representing our side. That's truly remarkable," Frank quickly corrected himself, his face reddening slightly.
"yeah, Forget about it then." Frank apoke in a mocking tone.
"What ?" Samantha asked in confusion.
"I was merely wishing you good luck for your turn and hoping you'll defeat him, Madam." Frank casually remarked.
"I require no luck to crush a Weak Commoner like him. I am the daughter of Witch Household." Samantha replied with unwavering confidence.
'Yeah, yeah, give it your best shot, you stupid blabbering girl. Even the king would struggle to take him down now and you, a dishwasher faced girl, believe you can triumph over such a monster. Quite amusing you stupid kid." Frank thought, a faint smile playing on his lips as he turned his attention back to the screen.
'But what will you do now, Anon? Your mana is running low, and I doubt there's a spell in the whole world that can replenish it rapidly." Frank contemplated as he observed anon running towards the desert.
[Critical Alert: Mana Remaining 10%, Mana Fatigue will initiate.]
A screen popped up in front of anon. The screen was shining crimson red, altering anon of his mana loss.
[Stamina Boost skill time over. Available again in 4:59 seconds.]
Another screen popped up in front of anon.
"Cease all current skills, i am using right now." Anon commanded.
In an instant, every skill he had been utilizing came to a halt, and the crimson red flames that enveloped his body extinguished in an instant.
Anon halted just a few steps shy of the desert's entrance and settled himself on the ground.
"Huh? What is this? Am I seeing this correctly?" Landon exclaimed in surprise.
"No, Landon, your eyesight is perfectly fine. This lad named Anon has stopped running. He's sitting on the ground near the desert's entrance. I'm not sure what's going through his mind, but something seems amiss," Seraphina explained.
"Why did he stop?"
"What's wrong with him? Why did he suddenly halt?"
"Has he run out of mana?"
"Perhaps he's out of stamina?"
Various conversations erupted within the crowd as everyone observed Anon, motionless on the ground, casting his gaze back at the path he had traversed.
'That Commoner leapt across the valley in a single bound. Just how strong is he? Am I truly so feeble? Can I accomplish the same feat? What are his limits? Can i defeat him in a 1v1 match ?' Luna pondered, her thoughts consumed by the enigma that was Anon.
"Huh? Is that...?" As Luna sprinted at full speed, hoping to catch up with Anon, she caught sight of a figure seated on the side of the road, looking at her coming towards him.
Closing the distance between them, her suspicions were confirmed as she passed by Anon without sparing him a second glance because her speed was too high to observe anything in the way.
"Why is he sitting there? Is something amiss? Has he depleted his mana? Or perhaps his stamina?" Luna's mind was filled with questions previously but now it overflowed with questions upon witnessing this sight.
"Oh, damn. Don't tell me he's mocking me? Is he trying to show the world that he can catch up to me, even when I'm hundreds of kilometers ahead oh him, whereas I failed to do the same when he left me behind? That must be the only reason he stopped. He wants to prove that I'm nothing more than a helpless puppy. I won't allow it. I must run faster if I want to win. How arrogant can a man be?" Luna mused, a whirlwind of thoughts swirling through her mind while Anon patiently waited for his skill cooldown to reset at the desert's starting point.
[Skill Cooldown: 10]
A screen showed the cooldown for his skill.
"Excellent," Anon remarked as he opened his inventory, retrieving an item from his inventory and revealing it to the audience.
A purple potion, stored within a golden bordered glass bottle.
"Is my eyesight deceiving me? Or Is that an actual Special Grade Mana Potion?" Landon exclaimed, astounded.
"What the...? A special grade potion?"
"Unbelievable! It must be a fake, I swear. It's a counterfeit, no doubt."
"Haha...he thinks he can fool us with these cheap tricks."
The crowd buzzed with discussions about the potion, if it was real or fake.
"No, Landon, have you lost your mind? A special grade mana potion is a rare find, even for the wealthiest traders in the kingdom. Do you honestly think a Commoner could possess one? I'm certain it's nothing more than a regular mana potion, dyed purple and stored inside a counterfeit, golden adorned bottle," Seraphina quickly retorted.
The audience returned to their normal state upon hearing Seraphina's words.
"Ha, she's right. How could a poor kid like him have something my own father doesn't? He's just putting on a show at this point.". A rich trader's son spoke.
"He thought he could deceive us, but little did he know that after consuming any potion, the same color emits from your body that the potion is originally made of. If it were a normal mana potion, his body would radiate a brilliant blue light," a teacher explained.
"Teacher, what if he tampered with that as well?" a noble child inquired.
"Son, that's the one thing that cannot be altered with, even for the greatest magic user in the world, it's a really hard task." the teacher replied.
"Sigh, you costed me a fortune, my friend. You'd better deliver what the shop manager promised me." Anon muttered as he scrutinized the purple potion before him.
Gulp
He removed the cork from the glass bottle's top and began consuming the potion.
Instantly, a purple aura enveloped Anon's body, and a message materialized before him.
[100% of your mana has been restored, mana fatigue debuff has been lifted successfully.]
"Damn, this tastes like gutter water. But it did its job. Now it's time for me to complete my job," Anon declared, rising from the ground as another message appeared in front of him.
[Skill reset complete!!! Skill
"Alright, let's start this." Anon declared as he rose from the roadside.
"Seraphina, did you witness that? His body just emanated a purple glow. It indicates that a Commoner has used a special grade mana potion, isn't it ?" Landon inquired.
"I-I can't fathom this. How can a Commoner like him acquire such an extraordinary potion?" Seraphina questioned, her voice tinged with confusion.
"That's a forgery, he's cheating. He tampered with the potion," a teacher accused, pointing at the screen.
"But sir, you explicitly stated that the potion couldn't be tampered with, didn't you?" a student challenged.
"That—" he fell silent, his shame evident as he lowered his gaze.
Anon activated his skill,
[Boundless Velocity] [Spearman Class Exclusive Skill] [C-Rank]
[In the realm of the extraordinary, where limits crumble beneath unwavering determination, resides a skill of unparalleled might:
With
[Mana: 300/hour]
'If I want to run continuously on this terrain without any stops, I must use this skill; otherwise, the friction of the sand will significantly decrease my speed,' Anon pondered as a faint red glow enveloped his body.
"Ladies and gentlemen, as you can see, Anon has risen once more and employed an unknown spell. Will he resume running, or is there another purpose to his actions?" Landon announced.
In an empty room within the academy...
"Do not release them, i repeat do not release them, you incompetent fools," Seti shouted at a crystal ball resembling the one she shattered before.
"But ma'am, we have already released them. We can't retrieve them now."
"Worthless imbeciles." She spoke as disappointment appeared clearly in her eyes.
Crack
Pfzzzt
Seti shattered yet another crystal ball, her eyes ablaze with anger.
"Anon Agreil, you will pay for this," Seti vowed as she exited the room.
Crimson flames immediately engulfed Anon's body as he resumed his sprint, leaving behind a scorching trail.
"Ladies and gentlemen, the Commoner named Anon has resumed his run and his flames have returned." Seraphina announced.
"Seraphina, what do you think? Will he be able to catch up with Luna now that she is running several kilometres ahead of him ?" Landon inquired.
"I can't say for certain, Landon, but what I can say is that he won't feel any cold in the desert because he is enveloped in those scorching flames," Seraphina replied.
"That's true. Wait, look over there," Landon pointed at the screen, where Luna was running through the desert.
"What is it?" Seraphina asked.
"I believe there's something beneath Luna's tracks. Look, the sand is shifting," Landon observed.
"Oh, yes, you're right. Could it be a desert viper or a scorpion? Is this the first monster of the tournament?" Seraphina's voice filled with suspense.
'What are these? I can't use any skills while using [Lightning Sprint]; I must avoid any fights for now,' Luna thought as she tried to predict the direction of the first attack from the unknown creature lurking beneath the sand.
'It's keeping pace with me? What kind of creature is this? I've never heard of a creature that can move this swiftly beneath the sand,' Luna contemplated as numerous monster scans flashed through her mind.
Suddenly, the movements beneath the sand multiplied, spreading from one location to several places surrounding Luna.
"Damn it, it has allies," Luna realized as she observed the creatures circling her with matching speed.
"Oh, shit!" Seraphina exclaimed, comprehension dawning upon her.
"What happened, Seraphina?" Landon asked as he understood that seraphina knows something about the creatures that are following luna.
"They are the poisonous golden frogs of Draven desert," Seraphina uttered.
"What? But they went extinct centuries ago. How can they be here?" Landon questioned.
"What poisonous golden frogs?"
"Damn it, Luna's in danger."
"I believe they're about to attack her."
The noble students started discussing the situation fervently.
[Poisonous Golden Frog] [AA Rank Desert Monster]
[Deep within the treacherous Draven Nightshade desert, a fearsome creature lurks—the Poisonous Golden Frog. Adorned in a vibrant golden hue, this monstrous entity evokes both awe and dread in the hearts of those who dare cross its path.
Under the veil of darkness, when the moon's glow casts an eerie light upon the desert, the Poisonous Golden Frog emerges from its hidden lair. With lightning speed, it navigates the treacherous terrain, propelled by muscular legs that allow it to surpass all other land creatures. Graceful yet deadly, it traverses the desert floor, leaving naught but ripples in its wake.
They went extinct 100 years ago due to being hunted for their skins, which were used to make cloth for noble women.]
"Come on, girl, at least dodge their attacks," Seti muttered in a low tone as she focused on the screen before her.
Letti, on the other side, regarded Seti with suspicion in her eyes.
Ribbit
A sudden sound emanated from behind Luna.
As she swiftly turned around, she encountered a colossal creature—frog-like in appearance, golden and adorned with black dots—twice her size, its gaping maw aiming to consume her from behind.
"Fuckkk..." she exclaimed, narrowly evading the attack by shifting her body to the right.
Ribbit.
The golden frog swiftly submerged into the sand as its failed attack and resumed pursuit of Luna with unyielding speed.
"Ladies and gentlemen, Luna is struggling against the golden frogs. These creatures went extinct a century ago, yet they have reappeared somehow. What will Luna do now? Will she fight or flee?" Landon inquired.
"Fuck, right? No, left," Luna declared, gracefully evading yet another attack from the golden frog on her left side.
"Luna Warwood showcases her exceptional dodging skills once again, but how long can she continue to elude the Golden Frog's relentless assault?" Landon commented.
Abruptly, the sand beneath Luna fell dead silent.
"Huh...? What's going on?" Luna wondered aloud, sensing an eerie stillness and the absence of movement around her.
"The golden frogs have vanished from Luna's path. Have they abandoned her?" Samantha questioned.
"No..." Jake responded.
Frank and Samantha glanced at Jake, noting his closed eyes and his hands clasped together in a cupped formation.
"Brother! Don't tell me. Are you using that spell?" Samantha asked, surprise evident in her expression.
"What spell?" Frank inquired.
"A forbidden tracking spell called 'Soul Tracer'," Samantha revealed.
"Why is it forbidden?" Frank pressed for an explanation.
"When you wish to closely track someone, you cast this spell. It divides your soul into two parts, allowing you to control the other part and monitor your target regardless of the distance. However, if the user's soul fragment is discovered or destroyed, the spellcaster will perish instantly," Samantha explained, fear appearing in her eyes.
"Whoa, that's one dangerous spell," Frank remarked, eyeing Jake intently.
"Yes, that's precisely why it's forbidden," Samantha affirmed.
"They are approaching her from the front," Jake announced.
"Brother, recall your soul before it becomes useless to you. I doubt your body can function properly with only half a soul," Samantha urged in tension that her brother will die at this rate.
Ribbit
Suddenly, a sound reached Luna's ears from the front.
"Fuck!" she exclaimed.
"Shit! They're going to attack me head-on. I can't afford to stop now. I must use my claws or it will be game over for me." Luna thought, extending her sharp claws from her fingertips, preparing for the impending assault.
Ribbit
A golden frog leaped out of the sand directly in front of her with his mouth wide open, he was fully prepared to devour her in one attack.
"Fuck you, ugly frog!" Luna shouted, driving both sets of claws into the frog's abdomen, tearing it apart.
Ribbit.
The torn halves of the frog fell onto the sand, swiftly regenerating and giving rise to another frog from the other half.
Both frogs burrowed into the sand, resuming their pursuit of Luna.
"What? How did this happen, Seraphina? Anything you know about this ?" Landon queried, astonishment coloring his voice.
"These golden frogs are mutated," Seraphina responded gravely, her attention fixed on the screen.
"Can you provide further explanation, Seraphina?" Landon prodded.
"When a golden frog consumes the flesh of a sandworm, it undergoes mutation. These mutated golden frogs possess extraordinary regenerative abilities as their primary skill. They can regenerate from even a single body part. If you divide them into four parts, four golden frogs will emerge from the fragments," Seraphina elaborated.
Kia's class...
"Wow, that's frightening. But how can a frog of that size devour a sandworm? Aren't they much larger and residing deep within the sand? I heard they only emerge in the seventh month of the year," a student inquired.
"Not if someone feeds them intentionally." Kia responded.
"Why would someone... Oh, now I understand," the student realized, comprehending that it was a ploy by the nobles.
'Why would they release them against their own student ? Is it to deceive the audience? No, I don't believe it necessitates such an elaborate cover-up. So why?' Kia pondered, various thoughts racing through her mind.
"Fuck, my hands are burning," Luna exclaimed, inspecting her nails.
To her dismay, she noticed that a green liquid had dissolved her nails.
Swiftly, she vigorously shook off as much acid as possible, swinging her hands forcefully.
"Fuck! Double mutation! This was all planned..." Luna remarked, realizing that the golden frogs were strategizing another frontal attack.
When golden desert frogs mate with the acidic frogs found in the northern forests of Trantamom, they undergo a mutation wherein their internal skin becomes filled with a highly dangerous acid. This acid burns and liquifies bones, making it easier for the frogs to digest, akin to meat.
However, this mutation was a one-time experiment for research purposes and was never replicated due to the extinction of the golden frogs. Moreover, this mutation cannot occur naturally since the Draven Desert and the Trantamom Forest are at least 2000 kilometers apart.
Luna quickly comprehended that everything had been premeditated.
"That's why that bastard stopped at the beginning of the desert. Fuck," Luna muttered, continuing to evade the frogs' attacks. Yet, she noticed their numbers multiplying over time.
"Oh my god, Luna is surrounded by golden frogs from all sides. Dodging the next attack won't be easy. What are your thoughts, Seraphina?" Landon inquired.
"I believe this was a cunning trick, regardless of which side orchestrated it, i can't say if, they were nobles or the Commoners but good trick." Seraphina responded, contemplating from which direction the deception had originated, be it the nobles or the commoners.
Everyone became aware that the double-mutated golden frogs were not a natural occurrence but a premeditated scheme.
Yet, the question remained, 'Who was responsible?'
The nobles suspected the commoners, while the commoners pointed fingers at the nobles. However, one person entertained a different theory.
Clap-Clap
Seti suddenly began clapping.
"Wow, wow, wow. Ms. Letti, you've played a nasty trick this time, haven't you?" Seti remarked, a smile adorning her face.
"What do you mean?" Letti inquired, suspicion etched on her features.
"What do I mean? You unleashed those double-mutated golden frogs on my student because you believed you couldn't win this competition without cheating. You instructed your student to wait at the desert's starting point, allowing Luna to pass him so you could execute your deceitful plan and halt her progress, am I correct?
You even employed a fake mana potion to create the illusion that he had depleted his mana, diverting our attention from the race. You possess a cunning mind, Ms. Luna." Seti accused Letti, laying the blame squarely on her shoulders.
"What?"
"Are you serious? You think I'm the one who did that?" Letti asked, her voice filled with defiance.
"Yes, I believe you're the one responsible, and I have proof. What do you have to defend yourself?" Seti replied confidently.
"Oh, so you want proof, huh?" Letti retorted, a sly smile on her face as she reached into her handbag and retrieved a glass ball, infusing it with mana.
As the mana circulated within the crystal ball, images began to form inside it.
"You idiots, don't release them now," Seti exclaimed.
"But ma'am, we've already released them, and we can't retrieve them now."
"Useless idiots."
Seti's secret conversation echoed through the crystal ball, and everyone watched in surprise.
"You bitch, break that crystal now, or..." Seti started threatening Letti, but before she could finish, Letti interrupted her.
"One copy of this crystal ball has already been sent to Director Kale's office," Letti declared with a wide grin.
"A teacher or a cheater?" a commoner student chimed in.
"That's why they say, 'You need a mind to even cheat,'" another student added.
"Hahaha!"
"Hehehe, what a foolish teacher."
Laughter erupted among the commoner students.
"If you can't support us, at least try not to slow us down, idiot." a noble student remarked.
"What kind of teacher uses this sort of trick on their own student?"
"A foolish one."
"Why does she have to be so cunning? Now we'll lose just because of her."
The noble students began to voice their frustrations about Seti and started criticizing her.
"Seti, come to my office now!" Kale's voice boomed from his office.
"Fuck, I'll get you for this," Seti muttered, pointing at Letti.
"I think he'll get you first," Letti mocked, laughing.
Seti made her way to Kale's office with an annoyed look on her face.
'She thinks she's the only smart one. I didn't doubt her the first time, but going to the same empty room a second time seemed suspicious. That's when I followed her and obtained this solid proof,' Letti thought, a satisfied smile on her face.
"Ladies and gentlemen, as you can see, nearly 30 to 40 golden frogs have surrounded Luna, and their next move will come soon. What will Luna do?" Seraphina announced.
"I think she'll stop her skill now and try to kill them, what do you think brother ?" Samantha suggested as she asked jake about it.
"No, she's running low on mana, and if she uses another spell, she'll go unconscious due to mana fatigue," Jake replied.
"She's doomed. This is where she dies, the first death of the 'Kingdom's Night Run,'" Frank commented from behind with a neutral expression on his face.
Both Jake and Samantha glanced at Frank momentarily, then turned their attention back to the screen.
"Screw this, I have to stop or I'm going to die at this rate. This is my best chance to counterattack," Luna declared as she canceled the Lightning Sprint.
As soon as she stopped, numerous golden frogs leaped onto her from all sides.
Ribbit Ribbit Ribbit
"Aura Blast!" Luna unleashed her most powerful area of effect skill.
[Aura Blast] [S-Rank] [Martial Artist Exclusive Skill]
[Prepare to witness the sheer might of the martial artist as they tap into their inner energy. With unparalleled focus and intensity, they channel the very essence of their surroundings, drawing forth an extraordinary surge of ki. The atmosphere crackles with anticipation as this raw power converges at a single point, swirling and coalescing around the martial artist's body.
And then, in a spectacular display of controlled chaos, the martial artist unleashes the devastating technique known as 'Aura Blast.' With a thunderous roar that resonates through the air, the accumulated energy detonates, erupting outward in a cataclysmic wave of sheer force.
Within a five-meter radius surrounding the martial artist, the world seems to bend and yield beneath the unstoppable torrent of ki. The ground trembles, cracks spiderweb outwards, and the very air quivers with its might. Anyone unfortunate enough to stand within this battleground of unleashed energy finds themselves at the mercy of this explosive assault.]
[Mana: Consumes 5000 mana per use]
[Warning: The side effects of this skill can be very dangerous. If the body isn't immediately repaired with the help of ki after its use, the user may suffer from bone fractures, torn muscles, unconsciousness, and in worst cases, death.]
Suddenly, the air around Luna turned into a vacuum as her body absorbed everything within 0.5 seconds.
Boom
She unleashed a deadly wave of aura from her body, obliterating the golden frogs into countless pieces of golden meat.
"Ahhh..." Luna's head immediately started throbbing as she fell to her knees.
The golden frogs began regenerating, and this time, thousands of them swarmed towards Luna, intent on devouring her.
Seventh Ring, Martial House...
"Luna has exhausted her stamina and ki," an old werewolf sitting on a chair remarked. Despite his age, his body remained young, boasting eight-pack abs and gray fur all over.
"Sir, may I go and save her?" a butler standing nearby asked.
"No, our house has never cheated in any battle. If she dies today, it would mean she was weak," the man replied firmly as he formed a stop gesture with his right hand, towards the butler.
"Dear husband, please don't do this. Please save our child. She's our only child," a woman direwolf with black fur, Huge Boobs, ultra huge ass, and a cute face pleaded, stepping out from a corner of the room.
"I said 'NO.' Do you plan to go against my orders, woman?" the man shouted, his voice so loud that the woman immediately cowered and retreated to the same corner she had come from.
"Y-Yes, a-as you say, my dear h-husband," she said, her tone filled with fear as tears streamed down her face.
"My husband is doing the right thing. You should be proud that your daughter fought to survive until her last breath," another woman with white fur, red eyes, medium sized breasts, and a flat ass spoke up from another corner of the room.
"Shut up, seri, or you'll be next," the man warned the other woman.
"As you command, my husband," she replied, her tone dripping with flattery as she fell silent.
"You can't do a single thing, and you call yourself my right hand? You fucking imbecile," Kale sneered, his fingers tapping impatiently on the table, a show of his growing frustration.
"Sir, it was meant for Anon, not Luna—" Seti began, her voice trembling with fear.
"Oh, my apologies, Mrs. Seti. I must have mistaken it for Luna, given that she's the one about to meet her untimely demise on that damn screen," Kale retorted sarcastically, his tone dripping with disdain.
"Sir, I'm deeply sorry. Please grant me an opportunity to rectify my mistake," Seti pleaded, her voice filled with desperation.
"No, this cannot be corrected. Today, the leader of the Martial House will witness his beloved daughter's tragic end right before his very eyes. He'll uncover your deceitful little trick, and tomorrow, we'll all be doomed. And the worst part? The Martial House has the unwavering support of the Denver House of Justice..." Kale's voice grew eerily low, carrying a foreboding sense of dread.
Tension gripped Seti's face as her expression transformed from remorse to one of sheer desperation, silently begging for a chance at redemption.
"But sir, we can still utilize the teleportation portal to reach there and save her," Seti suggested, her voice filled with a glimmer of hope.
"No, the portal takes at least ten precious minutes to activate. Do you think we have enough skilled teachers at our disposal to combat that formidable army of fully-grown, double-mutated golden frogs?" Kale replied firmly, his voice laced with a hint of resignation.
"Sir, please save me. I've done something terribly wrong. I beg of you, save me," Seti pleaded, her grip tightening on Kale's legs as she dropped all pretense of dignity.
"I can't. Tomorrow, the leader of the Martial House will summon me to their family court session. His eldest son will be present, and he will demand to know who orchestrated such a cruel fate for his cherished daughter. I'll have no choice but to hand you over to them. If I were to lie, they would inevitably discover the truth within a day or two. No matter where you hide, they'll eventually find you, for they possess the means to unearth you from the very depths of hell itself. And then, not only would they realize that I deceived them, but they would deliver upon me a fate far worse than death. No, I cannot take that risk. Tomorrow morning, at the crack of dawn, you shall be handed over to the Martial House," Luke explained, his voice laden with an air of finality.
Listening to all this, Seti's face turned ashen, a cold shiver running down her spine as the gravity of her situation engulfed her entirely.
"Sir, I've always been an obedient servant, faithfully executing your every command. Please, I implore you, save me this one time. Each time you desired me to get naked for you and bend down in front of you, I complied without hesitation or inquiry. Are you truly prepared to abandon me now?" Seti pleaded, her voice trembling with a mix of fear and betrayal.
"I'm sorry, Seti, but there's only one person who can save you now," Kale replied, his voice tinged with a hint of sorrow.
"W-Who?" Seti asked, a flicker of hope igniting within her eyes.
'Who possesses more authority than Director Kale himself?' Seti's mind raced, seeking an answer.
"Anon Agreil," Kale declared, his voice firm and resolute.
"What?" Seti exclaimed, her surprise evident.
"Yes, in approximately forty seconds, those frogs will regenerate fully and commence devouring Luna's unconscious body. But Anon has the power to save her, as well as you. If he can reach her within the next thirty-five seconds, carrying her weight while running for at least ten minutes, only then can we establish a teleportation portal between this very spot and the Draven Forest, thus granting us a chance to rescue her," Kale explained, his voice brimming with urgency.
"But why would he help her?" Seti asked, her voice a mix of curiosity and skepticism.
"Every student is provided with a one-time-use communication crystal to forfeit a match if they desire. Anon must have obtained one from Letti. Now, go and grab Luna's legs if you wish to see the sun rise tomorrow. Hurry!" Kale commanded.
"Yes," Seti acknowledged, her determination renewed.
With thirty-two seconds left, Seti hurriedly made her way towards Letti.
"Letti, please give me the communication crystal connected to the one you gave Anon," Seti requested, a forced smile gracing her face.
"Well, guess what? It seems I've lost it, bitch," Letti responded, her voice dripping with venom.
"Shit! Ms. Letti has really nailed it!" a second-year common girl chimed in from the crowd.
"She always strikes when the iron is hot," another voice added.
"A freshly ruined reputation, served to Mrs. Seti."
Laughter erupted from the commoners as they wasted no time mocking Seti's misfortune.
"You! You can't talk to me like that! You're nothing but a common—"
"Mind your words, bitch. The fate of what unfolds on that screen now depends on the next words that escape your lips," Letti interrupted, exuding confidence. She had calculated every move, anticipated this precise moment, and now held the upper hand against Seti.
Suddenly, a look of dread washed over Seti's face as Kale's earlier warning echoed in her mind.
With twenty seconds remaining...
"Haha, my dear friend Letti, you've always been a loyal companion. Surely, you can find it in your heart to forgive me for any transgressions. Please, grant me the crystal. I beg of you," Seti's tone changed dramatically, adopting the utmost politeness.
"Nope," Letti replied curtly, enjoying the sudden reversal of power.
"What do you want, then?" Seti inquired, her voice resolute once more.
"Hmm... I'm having difficulty hearing you clearly. I think it's due to the change in your tone," Letti taunted, relishing the moment.
"Haha, what do you desire, my dear friend Letti? Name it, and I, your senior, shall make it happen. Gold, magic crystals, academy points—just say the word," Seti offered, desperately seeking a way out.
"Alright, I want a blank mana contract," Letti declared, a glint of mischief in her eyes.
A blank contract, akin to a blank check, except writing an amount greater than the giver's capacity would cause the check to bounce. A mana contract, however, bound the promise-maker to fulfill any request, no matter how immoral or illegal, under the penalty of instant death should they break their word, irrespective of their strength or authority.
"What nonsense? Why would I give you a blank—"
"Forget it, then. I believe there are about fourteen seconds left before the frogs feast upon Luna," Letti interrupted, her voice oozing with certainty.
"Fuck it, I'll give it to you right here!" Seti conjured a paper with an intricate magic circle imprinted upon it.
Chk
Seti bit her finger, drawing blood, and allowed a drop to fall onto the agreement.
The paper glowed, and the once-black magic circle transformed into a vibrant blue.
"Now, hand it over," seti demanded.
Reluctantly, letti retrieved a crystal ball from her bag and extended it toward seti. But, just as Seti reached for it, the crystal ball slipped from Letti's grasp and crashed to the ground.
The countdown continued, and time slipped away...
"W-What? W-Why would you do that?" Seti asked, her tone trembling with fear as she beheld her impending death before her.
"Oops," Letti mocked, a wicked smile playing on her lips.
Seti stared at Letti, instantly realizing that it was done intentionally.
'I am dead now.' The thought reverberated in Seti's mind, accepting the dire reality that awaited her.
"Anon is coming, look!" a student shouted from the behind of the Commoner's section.
All eyes turned toward the screen, anticipation hanging in the air.
"Everyone, as you can see, Anon has arrived at the scene. Let's see what happens next," Landon announced, his voice tinged with excitement.
"Please save her," Seti murmured under her breath, a desperate plea to the fates.
Anon sprinted at full speed in Luna's direction, his focus unwavering.
"Hmm...? Is that Luna?" Anon questioned himself, spotting the unconscious body of the werewolf girl amidst a sea of golden frogs.
'Why is she unconscious here?' Anon wondered, his mind racing to comprehend the situation.
"Sickles of Death..." Two sickles materialized in Anon's hands, their appearance accompanied by flames that engulfed Anon's body.
"Wait, Anon has summoned his weapons. What are those? A pair of sickles covered in flames ? Is he going to fight for Luna? Why would a competitor fight for another competitor?" Seraphina voiced her confusion, her face contorting into a mixture of amusement and bewilderment.
'A Commoner would never help a noble, even if he can. Why would he help luna ?' Seraphina thought in her mind.
"What are those sickles, they are emitting a mysterious aura ?" Samantha asked in confusion.
"They are no ordinary weapons; they possess a special grade. Crafted by a masterful blacksmith," Frank revealed, his knowledge surpassing the average observer because he has seen them before.
"What? A special grade weapon? I understand that he had a special grade mana potion earlier, but to possess a special grade weapon as well... Isn't that a bit peculiar?" Jake pondered, his mind swirling with questions.
"Haha, what's odd about having a special grade weapon? My family owns hundreds of them," Frank interjected hastily, attempting to divert attention from the topic, unwilling to reveal that he had divulged Anon's secret.
"No, we are from the seven noble houses. Having hundreds of them is no extraordinary matter for us. However, for a commoner like him, how?" Jake queried, his curiosity piqued.
"Look, brother, he's about to charge in. But how can he fight with sickles? I just can't comprehend this," Samantha expressed her confusion, her brows furrowed.
"Why can't he fight with sickles?" Frank challenged, seeking understanding.
"These golden frogs are double-mutated. Once injured, they release a dangerous acid, and to eliminate them, hunters must maintain a safe distance. However, with sickles, that distance becomes significantly shorter," Jake elucidated, shedding light on the precarious nature of the situation.
The trio redirected their gaze to the screen, eager to witness Anon's next move.
"No, you idiot! Don't fight them; just pick up the girl and leave!" Seti shouted at the screen, her voice laced with desperation.
Everyone looked at her in confusion.
*Ribbit Ribbit Ribbit*
Thousands of frogs regenerated their bodies completely and swarmed Luna's motionless form, poised to devour her.
However, before they could reach her, a blazing sickle sliced through the horde, effortlessly cleaving them like a knife through butter.
Ten frogs fell to the ground, their bodies irreparably damaged. The sickles of death absorbed the green blood that spilled forth, resulting in the instant demise of the golden frogs.
"What? The golden frogs have ceased regenerating? Is that even possible, Seraphina?" Landon inquired, astonishment evident in his voice.
"I, too, am witnessing this phenomenon for the first time in my life, Landon," Seraphina confessed, her eyes widening in disbelief.
n𝗼𝑣𝗲(𝓁𝓫-1n
'I cannot waste any more time. There are too many of these frogs, yet I cannot abandon her. I want this girl in my collection, and no one but me shall touch the girl I desire,' Anon resolved, returning the sickles of death to his inventory.
'I didn't intend to resort to this, but there is no other choice now.'
[50% Mana Remaining]
"Fuck off!" Anon's voice thundered across the desert, his eyes shimmering a vibrant purple as his voice grew more commanding than ever.
Suddenly, all the golden frogs in Anon's vicinity froze momentarily before obediently walking away, as if compelled by his command.
"What? How in the hell is that possible? The frogs are departing, as if following Anon's every whim," Landon exclaimed, bewildered by the extraordinary display.
"Who is this boy, Landon?" Seraphina questioned, her gaze fixated on the screen before her, searching for answers.
Anon continued his sprint, cradling Luna in his arms, his determination unyielding to let go of her.
'Her fur is so soft.' Anon thought as a perverted smile appeared on his face and he slided his hand underneath luna's ass to feel the real softness.
Thud
Seti collapsed to her knees, her hands instinctively covering her mouth.
"She's safe," Seti uttered, tears of joy streaming down her face.
'Anon, you cunning bastard. I knew you would seize the opportunity to gain favor with the Martial House by rescuing their daughter. And I, too, secured a blank mana contract. It's a win-win for both of us.' Letti contemplated, a subtle smile playing on her lips as she observed Anon's actions.
"Phew, she's safe," Kale breathed a sigh of relief, the weight on his shoulders lifting.
"How did your brother do that, Gia?" a girl inquired, turning to Gia for answers.
"Yeah, does he possess the skill of monster taming?" another chimed in, their curiosity piqued.
"It's as if he hypnotized the frogs into obeying his commands. Do you know anything about it, Gia?" Yumi probed, seeking answers from Anon's sister.
"Nope, my brother never shares details about his skills. I know nothing about them," Gia responded with a neutral expression. However, beneath her composed facade, a surge of desire coursed through her at the memory of Anon's piercing purple eyes, recalling the intense moments they had shared intimately.
Her face flushed crimson, a single thought consuming her mind.
'Brother, dominate me once more. I want to be enslaved by those captivating purple eyes once more. Ravish me like a savage.'
Kia's mind drifted to equally carnal thoughts.
"Damn it, those eyes... Why are my panties becoming wet ? I just put them on today," she fretted, unconsciously rubbing her clit through her pink panda patterned panties.
"System, scan her body." Anon commanded, his heart pounding as he ran with Luna cradled in his arms.
[Scanning...]
[New DNA has been found.]
[DNA has been registered inside the 'Book Of Wisdom'.]
"Show me."
[Opening Book Of Wisdom]
[Werewolf (Female)] [Condition: Critical]
[14 bone fractures have been found.
117 muscle tissues have been torn apart.
10 brain tissues have been damaged.]
[Conclusion: Must be healed within the next 10 minutes or death will be the result.]
"Fuck, her body is in a critical situation. Can you repair it?" Anon asked, desperation seeping into his voice.
[25% mana will be consumed from the Host's body.]
"Fuck, take it," Anon granted permission to the system, his voice tinged with determination.
[Starting to repair the werewolf body]
[Injecting mana]
[Finding path to reach the tissues]
[Estimated time for repair: 8 minutes.]
[Warning: Separating the werewolf from the host's body now will result in instant death for the werewolf.]
Numerous windows popped up in front of Anon, a testament to the gravity of the situation.
Inside the portal room of the academy...
"Is the portal ready ?" Seti demanded, her voice laced with urgency.
"Ma'am, you just arrived a minute ago, and the portal will take at least 15 minutes to activate," the worker explained, his hands frantically manipulating a large metal ring in the center of the room.
"I don't have 15 minutes. I need to get to the location now," Seti snapped, her impatience palpable.
"Shit," the worker muttered under his breath.
"What happened?" Seti inquired, her eyes narrowing.
"The magic crystal that operates the portal is missing," the worker confessed, anxiety etched on his face.
"What? Where did it go?" Seti asked, surprise mingling with frustration.
"I don't know, ma'am. I just entered this room. It has been locked for many years because no one used this portal," the worker explained, his head constantly looking down in fear.
"Fuck, find it in the storage room. Here is the key," Seti commanded, tossing a bunch of keys towards the worker.
"Y-Yes, ma'am," the worker stammered, quickly grabbing the keys and hurrying out of the room.
"Shit, who the fuck separated the magic crystal from the portal?" Seti muttered to herself as she briskly left the room.
Seventh ring, Martial House...
"She is safe. My daughter is safe," tears streamed down the black werewolf milf's eyes, a mixture of relief and gratitude.
"That fucking bastard saved her. Who the fuck is that boy?" Seri thought, her frustration evident as she nervously chewed her nails.
"Who is that kid, Helix?" the family leader of the Martial House inquired, his voice commanding.
"He is Anon Agreil, sir. His father was killed by his stepmother, but she couldn't cover it up well. His stepmother planned to kill him as well, but failed. He has three stepsisters who have attended the same academy for the last two years.
He made quite a show on the first day of college entry. It was observed by students that he jumped off a three-eyed raven with his sister in his arms.
He set a world record in javelin throw during the first test and in the second test, he obliterated the immortal dummy into countless pieces of dust with a weapon he made himself," Helix reported, providing a comprehensive overview to the family leader.
"Hahaha, Helix, you are very good at collecting information. Do you know that?" the family leader chuckled, expressing his approval.
"Thank you for the compliment, sir," Helix replied, a hint of pride in his voice.
"No, you deserve it," the family leader commended him.
"Thank you, sir," Helix responded, placing his right hand over his chest and bowing respectfully before the family leader.
"Okay, I want that kid as my son-in-law and Luna's husband," the family leader declared boldly.
A sudden hush fell over the room, everyone taken aback by the unexpected announcement.
"B-But sir, what about Kang?" Helix asked, his expression filled with tension.
"Oh yeah, that idiot is still here, huh? Just make him marry my other daughter, Kila," the family leader stated matter-of-factly.
"B-But, my husband, this is not fair. I've already promised the House of Justice's third son to marry Kil-" Seri interjected, unable to contain her objections.
"You got a problem with my decision, my dear wife?" the family leader responded, his voice low and menacing. He extended his long claws and bared his sharp canine teeth, an aura of death emanating from his body.
"No, no, no, I will do as my husband says and never argue with you. Please forgive me, my husband," Seri pleaded, her voice filled with fear, as she hastily left the room.
"Good. I don't like noise when I am giving out orders," the family leader stated, returning to his usual demeanor.
"Get me that kid first thing in the morning. We will finalize the engagement tomorrow."
"Sir, that kid is a commoner. How can we marry the Martial House's daughter to a commoner?" Helix questioned, his voice tinged with concern.
"Don't forget the family motto, Helix. What is it?" the family leader demanded.
"Y-Yes, sir. 'A strong person never differentiates. A strong person only rules the weak,'" Helix replied, reciting the motto with conviction.
"Good. Now, I need that kid in the morning, and Luna too. Explain everything to her because I don't like noise when I am giving out orders," the family leader instructed, rising from his chair and striding out of the room.
"Helix, I want you to bring that kid to me before my dear husband does," the black werewolf milf commanded.
"Yes, Mrs. Cassandra," Helix acknowledged, bowing once more before Cassandra.
"That kid is the right choice for my daughter. My dear husband is never wrong about his choices, but I still wish to meet him once before all this. Don't tell him who I am when you bring him to me. Do you understand?" Cassandra requested, her voice filled with a mix of anticipation and caution.
"Crystal clear, ma'am," Helix replied with certainty.
"Goodnight, Helix," Cassandra bid him farewell, leaving the room.
"You too, ma'am. Have a pleasant sleep," Helix responded, beginning to collect the empty tea glasses from the table in front of him.
The night was filled with intrigue and anticipation as the pieces of fate continued to fall into place.
"Ladies and gentlemen, as you bear witness, Anon now carries his competitor Luna in his arms, sprinting without faltering in his speed. What a captivating sight," Seraphina exclaimed, her voice resonating with awe.
However, a wave of disapproval rippled through some of the nobles.
"How can a mere commoner lay hands on a noble girl of seven-star status?"
"What kind of commentator would describe this as 'a lovely view'?"
"What in the world is wrong with these commentators?"
The noble students began to voice their discontent, criticizing the commentators one by one.
"Landon, as you can see, Anon approaches the final hurdle of our Kingdom's Night Run: Stormborn Sea. Could you enlighten everyone and share your insights on how he will overcome this challenge while carrying Luna?" Seraphina inquired, her eyes fixed on Landon.
"Absolutely, my dear. Ladies and gentlemen, behold the last and ultimate hurdle of our kingdom—the dreaded Stormborn Sea. Legends speak of its treacherous waters, where only the most valiant souls dare to venture. This unforgiving expanse commands both awe and terror, its very name whispered in hushed tones across distant lands.
By day, the Stormborn Sea disguises itself as a picturesque expanse, its azure depths shimmering beneath the radiant sun. But as twilight descends, a sinister transformation takes hold. From the darkest abyssal depths, creatures of unimaginable might and ferocity awaken, drawn by the haunting call of the moon. These behemoths, defying the realm of the known, rise like nightmares given corporeal form.
Yet, it is during the night when the true horrors of the Stormborn Sea reveal themselves. The moon's silver glow casts an eerie luminescence upon the waters, illuminating ghastly sea serpents with scales that gleam like cursed gems. Sirens, with voices both enchanting and deadly, entice unsuspecting sailors to their doom, their haunting melodies echoing through the salt-kissed air."
"Intriguing! We have a formidable hurdle indeed. But the real question remains: how will Anon navigate it while carrying a fair maiden in his arms?" Seraphina interjected, her gaze shifting between Anon and Luna.
[Recovery complete.]n-/𝐨-)𝗏--𝑬.-𝗅.-𝗯.-I-.n
[The werewolf has been successfully healed.]
"Hmm...? Where am I?" Luna gradually opened her eyes, feeling the gentle breeze on her skin.
"Rise and shine, princess," a voice called from nearby, its tone somewhat familiar but elusive.
"Hmm...? You are..." Luna's words caught in her throat as she laid her eyes upon the face before her.
It was Anon, aflame with intensity and standing so close.
"Y-You, why are you carrying me like this?" She stammered, her face flushing with shyness.
"Well, you were unconscious amidst a sea of golden frogs. I thought it would be a good idea to assist an unconscious girl, and look where my act of kindness has taken me. Not even a simple thank you from the person I saved," Anon teased, a mischievous grin playing on his lips.
"W-Well, you didn't need to save me. I am a warrior, and I live and die with my honor and dignity. I don't like being rescued by others, and I'd rather perish than be saved by my competitor in a competition," Luna replied, crossing her arms and pouting.
"Seems like I won't be receiving any gratitude from you, huh?" Anon continued his playful banter, his eyes sparkling with amusement.
"T-T-Thank you," Luna muttered, her face growing even redder.
"Oh my, what have I just heard? A noble thanking a commoner? That's certainly new," Anon teased once more.
"You! What do you want?" Luna inquired, her voice a mix of curiosity and exasperation.
"I'm merely teasing you."
"Put me down now," Luna demanded.
"A martial artist should always know her limits. You have zero ki left in your body, and if I were to release you right now, you wouldn't be able to move an inch. Forget about walking back to the academy; if I were to drop you here, you wouldn't even be able to stand up from the ground. You'd be like a paralyzed body."
'Every single word he just said felt like a needle piercing my ears, but annoyingly, he's one hundred percent correct. Here I am, a powerful woman at the mercy of a commoner like him. Tch, this is the most frustrating moment of my life,' Luna thought, turning her gaze away.
"Just gather your ki. Once you have enough, I'll set you free, and then you can regain your independence and forget about this frustrating moment of your life," Anon said, his smile unwavering.
"H-How did you know?" Luna asked, surprised.
"I can read the minds of beautiful girls, especially those who have a crush on me," Anon remarked with a naughty smile on his face.
"Y-You, do you really think I like you?" Luna questioned, her face blushing red with innocence.
"Nope," Anon replied nonchalantly.
Luna let out a sigh of relief.
"Then why did—" Luna began, but Anon interrupted her.
"You love me." Anon immediately gave her another shock before she could have recovered from the previous one.
Suddenly, Luna felt a surge of heat engulf her entire being, her face turning a deeper shade of crimson.
'Why do i feel like this ? This not even the mating season for us.' luna felt something in her heart that she never felt before.
But what she didn't knew is that the fruit she is tasting is not the love fruit but the fruit of the devil himself.
"Y-You pervert!" Luna quickly averted her gaze.
However, as she looked forward again, her enhanced vision caught sight of something.
"Stop! There's water ahead. It's the Stormborn Sea. You can't swim with me in your arms. Leave me here, and someone will come to retrieve me within minutes," Luna suggested.
"I don't think anyone is coming. I've been running with you for fifteen minutes, and if help were on its way, they would have arrived by now. It seems no one will come to save you, and if I leave you here, you'll become fish food within seconds. Is that what you want?" Anon countered.
"B-But how will you swim with me in your arms?"
"Who said I'm going to swim?"
"What?"
"Ladies and gentlemen, as all of you can see, Anon is about to enter the Stormborn Sea, and I don't think he plans on slowing down even a bit," Seraphina spoke, her voice filled with intrigue. "I can say for sure that you can't jump over a sea, can you? I am very curious to see what Anon will do now."
"He is not dropping Luna down. What is going through his mind?" Samantha asked, her confusion evident.
"I can't tell. He is just unpredictable," Jake spoke with a perplexed expression as he fixed his gaze on the screen in front of him.
'What do you plan to do this time, Anon?' Frank wondered, his thoughts racing.
"Both of us will drown to death if you don't put me down here!" Luna shouted, panic creeping into her voice as she realized the sea was near, and Anon showed no signs of slowing down.
"Close your eyes, or the water will get into them," Anon warned Luna.
"Fuck." Luna immediately shut her eyes tightly and took a deep breath, preparing to hold it underwater.
Splash
Water splattered all over Luna's face, but instead of feeling like she was drowning, a cool breeze gently caressed her cheeks. She hesitantly opened her eyes, astonished by what she saw.
Anon was running on the surface of the water, defying the laws of nature.
"H-How is this even possible?" Luna exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder and disbelief.
Inside the academy, whispers of amazement filled the air.
"Woah, how is he doing that?"
"Is that even possible?"
"Is that a spell or a skill?"
"Wow, that's so cool."
Everyone began buzzing with excitement, discussing Anon's extraordinary feat.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I can't believe this. Anon is running on water. I've never heard of a skill or spell that can allow you to do that," Landon announced, rising from his chair to observe Anon more closely.
"How is he doing that, brother?" Samantha asked Jake.
"Maybe it's a spell," Jake replied.
"No, I am observing him very carefully, and he didn't activate any spell," Samantha countered, her brow furrowing in deep thought.
"I-I don't know. He is really unpredictable," Jake replied, his face filled with a mix of intrigue and concern.
'Who are you, Anon?' Jake wondered, his gaze fixed on the screen before him.
"How? How in the hell are you doing this?" Luna questioned, her voice tinged with tension.
"It's basic physics, darling," Anon answered, a mischievous smile playing on his lips.
'This is cool when done, rather than thinking,' Anon thought to himself, his smile widening.
"Basic what?" Luna asked, still bewildered.
"Nothing much. I'm simply placing my second step on the water before my first step sinks, and my third step before my second step sinks. That's how I'm running on water. You understand, luv?" Anon explained, his tone light.
"Don't call me luv, and I still don't understand how you're doing this," Luna retorted.
'If I can run faster than 30 meters per second, then I can easily run on water. And my current speed is over 60 meters per second. Walking on water is easier than making bread in this world. Every single theory of Earth is true here. This world is so good,' Anon thought, reveling in his newfound ability.
[15% mana left.]
Suddenly, a window popped up in front of him.
"Shit. Why now?" Anon muttered under his breath, frustration creeping into his voice.
Kale's office...
Boom
"Look, is there any explanation for this? He is running on water, and he didn't activate any skill or spell beforehand. Just look at him!" Kale exclaimed, his fists pounding against a red punching bag as he turned to Seti for answers.
"Sir, I can't explain this. Maybe he has a contract with a water spirit?" Seti suggested tentatively.
"You stupid woman! Over the Stormborn Sea, no spirit is permitted. Don't give me foolish explanations!" Kale erupted in anger, his voice laced with frustration.
"I-I'm sorry, sir," Seti stammered, quickly apologizing.
"Why are you still here? What happened to the teleportation portal?" Kale demanded, his expression returning to normal.
"Yes, sir. There is one problem with that. The crystal used to operate it is missing, but the workers are searching for it in the storeroom," Seti explained.
As soon as Kale heard this, his face turned pale.
"The workers are searching where?" Kale questioned Seti, his eyes filled with concern.
"I-In the storeroom, sir," Seti replied, her voice trembling.
"You fucking piece of shit! What did I tell you when I gave you the keys to the fucking storeroom?" Kale's anger intensified as he unleashed his frustration on Seti.
"T-That I should never give it to anyone," Seti answered, her face growing paler by the second.
"Where are the keys, Seti?" Kale demanded, his voice filled with fury.
"S-Sir..."
"Where are the damn keys, you bitch?" Kale's shout echoed through the room.
"I-I gave them to the worker who was working on the portal," Seti replied, her voice barely a whisper.
"You fucking... *Slap*!" Kale's hand struck Seti's face with brutal force, causing her to crumple to the ground.
"I-I'm sorry, sir," Seti apologized, blood trickling from her lips. But before she could regain her composure, Kale seized her by the neck, his grip tightening.
"You, sometimes I wonder why I even fucked a bitch like you. You are the most useless and careless person in my whole fucking life. You can't take care of one responsibility I gave you. How can someone be this irresponsible?" Kale seethed, his eyes turning red as his hand emitted an intense heat.
"S-Sir, I-I am dy...ing," Seti gasped, struggling to speak as tears and saliva streamed down her face.
"Yeah, that's what a useless thing like you should do. Just die," Kale sneered, tightening his grip around Seti's throat.
Desperate, Seti began flailing her hands, slapping the ground, and fighting for breath. She felt utterly helpless, her vision clouded by blood.
"P-P...please," she managed to choke out, blood seeping into her eyes.
Kale released his grip and stood up, leaving Seti sprawled on the floor.
"This is your last chance. Now stand up and come with me," Kale warned, his voice filled with menace.
Kale strode out of his office, making his way toward the storeroom, his steps filled with purpose.
"Cough-cough, Yes," Seti replied weakly, following behind without question.
Stormborn Sea...
"Do you know how to count stars?" Anon asked Luna, a hint of mystery in his voice.
"What?" Luna's confusion deepened as she tried to comprehend his question.
Click.
Creak.
A man dressed in a grey robe unlocked the door to a dusty room. As he swung it open, a cloud of dust billowed out, causing him to cough.
"Damn it. How long has it been since they last entered this place?" muttered the worker who had been entrusted with the keys to the storeroom by Seti.
The room was dimly lit, filled with a vast array of magical artifacts: wands, tarot cards, crystal globes, and swords.
"Where the hell am I supposed to find a teleportation portal crystal in this mess? Why couldn't they send someone to organize this place?" grumbled the worker, his frustration evident.
Without wasting another moment, he began rummaging through the clutter, determined to find the crystals he had come for.
"If it were to be unleashed today, it would spell disaster for all of us," Kale said, summoning his magic wand wrapped in a cloth adorned with white runes.
Seti watched in awe, her face filled with surprise.
"The Wand of Luminara? What could be so significant in that storeroom that Director Kale needs this wand's assistance?" wondered Seti.
[Wand Of Luminara] [Behold the Wand of Luminara, an artifact of unparalleled power and ancient wisdom. Crafted by the most skilled artisans of the magical realm, this majestic staff bears the essence of the Magic Academy's illustrious founder. A symbol of authority and responsibility, it can only be summoned in the direst of circumstances by a selected few, entrusted with the highest positions of leadership within the academy's ranks—be it the revered Director Kale, the venerable Headmaster, or the esteemed Principal.
The Wand of Luminara emanates an aura of brilliance, its slender form crafted from the finest ethereal wood, shimmering with an iridescent glow. Adorned with intricate engravings that tell the tales of the academy's storied history, it becomes a conduit between the mortal realm and the vast wellspring of magical energy that flows through the very fabric of existence.]
"Why have you summoned me, Kale?" spoke the wand.
"I require your power," Kale responded with seriousness in his voice.
"I do not simply follow orders. Tell me the circumstances, and then I shall decide whether I shall lend my aid," the wand replied.
"A man has entered the enchanted room—the room that houses 'The Mirror of Enigma,'" explained Kale.
"What? A man inside the same room as 'The Mirror of Enigma'? Have you lost your mind? She entrusted you with one task, and you couldn't accomplish it?" the wand questioned in disbelief.
Kale glared at Seti with intense, red eyes.
"Hii—" Seti felt a chill run down her spine, quickly averting her gaze toward the ground.
"We still have time. If we can remove him from the room, we might be able to save him, right?" Kale asked.
"No, she must have already ensnared him with her sweet words. We must hurry and prevent her from escaping the room," commanded the wand.
"Yes."
'Who is she? What are they talking about?' wondered Seti, keeping her head lowered in fear.
In the Stormborn Sea...
"Do you know how to count stars?" Anon asked.
"What?" Luna questioned, perplexed by Anon's unusual inquiry.
"Okay, here we go..." Anon said, tightening his grip around Luna's waist.
"Hey, what are you planning?" Luna blushed, her face turning crimson.
"Hup..." Anon made a sound with his mouth as he flung Luna high into the air.
"Ahhhhhhhhhh...." Luna screamed as she realized she couldn't move, thrown into the air above the raging Stormborn Sea.
"Ouch, why are you screaming?" Anon murmured, swiftly retrieving a special-grade mana potion from his inventory. He unscrewed the glass bottle's cap with his teeth and caught Luna as she descended back into his hands.
All of this happened in just three seconds.
"Hah, you damn fool. What would have happened if I had fallen into the sea?" Luna shouted.
Suddenly, Luna noticed that Anon held a purple liquid-filled mana potion in his mouth.
"Is that a special-grade mana potion?" Luna asked, her expression filled with surprise.
Anon looked at Luna and, lifting his face, turned the bottle upside down in his mouth.
"Bowsam puf (Bottoms up)," Anon declared.
In a mere two seconds, Anon guzzled down the entire bottle of special-grade mana potion, then tossed the empty bottle aside.
[Mana has been restored to 100%.]
"What were you saying, my dear?" Anon asked.
"Was that a special-grade mana potion?" Luna inquired once more.
"Yes, it was," Anon replied nonchalantly.
"What the...? How can a commoner like you have a special-grade mana potion?" Luna questioned.
"Well, why wouldn't I have one?" Anon countered.
"These potions are incredibly expensive and rare. Not because of the cost of their ingredients, but because only one or two special-grade mana potions are produced out of every ten thousand high-grade ones," Luna explained.
"Correct, but it seems I've stumbled upon them, and I happen to be quite wealthy as well," Anon teased.
"Forget it, I won't inquire about how you obtained the potion. Just give me one, and I'll pay any price you ask," Luna proposed.
"I won't. I already wasted an extra potion saving you from those frogs, and now I have limited potions for this race," Anon stated firmly.
"Well, saving me from the frogs that you planted to kill me... I don't understand your strategy. What do you really want?" Luna asked.
"What the hell are you talking about? Why would I plant frogs to kill you and then save you?" Anon responded.
"Are you saying you didn't do it? Or someone from the commoners' side?" Luna asked, her expression suspicious.
"Nope, I don't need some flashy frogs to kill you when I can do it with a single slap," Anon declared.
"What? Are you telling the truth?" Luna asked, astonishment on her face.
"Yes, I can kill you with a single slap. Why would I need frogs to do it for me?" Anon reiterated.
"Then why did you stop at the starting point of the desert?" Luna inquired.
"To replenish my mana," Anon answered.
"Who could do this to me?" Luna whispered.
[Skill
A semi-transparent screen materialized in front of Anon.
"Damn it, we have to stop," Anon exclaimed.
"What?" Luna asked, her expression filled with surprise.
Inside the academy's storeroom...
"Fucking hell, this isn't the power crystal either. Where the fuck is it?" The frustrated worker muttered to himself, his voice laced with irritation and determination.
Swish
A sudden rush of air swept through the room as the main door swung open, creating a sense of anticipation and mystery.
The worker's senses tingled, sensing something amiss at the far end of the storeroom. His instincts urged him to investigate.
"Is someone there?" he called out, his gaze fixed on the darkened corner, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and caution.
The room remained shrouded in darkness, heightening the tension in the air.
"I must be losing my mind. How could someone be in this room? It was just opened today after years of neglect," the worker reasoned, shaking off his unease and resuming his search for the crystal. His determination burned brightly, refusing to be quelled by the mysterious atmosphere.
Sob-Sob
But then, a faint sound of sobbing echoed from the depths of the room, causing a shiver to run down the worker's spine. The sobbing was filled with sorrow and longing, tugging at his heartstrings.
"Hmm...?" The worker turned his attention to the source of the sound, his curiosity piqued. There was a glimmer of empathy in his eyes, as he felt a connection to the unseen weeper.
"I ask again, who's there?" he demanded, cautiously advancing toward the sobbing. His voice had a touch of both authority and concern, his bravery shining through the uncertainty.
Sob-Sob
"I'm trapped inside this mirror. Can you remove the cloth covering it?" a sweet voice pleaded, captivating the worker's every thought. There was a vulnerability to her voice, like a fragile bird trapped in a cage.
"A-Are you a ghost?" fear crept into the worker's voice as he realized the voice had no discernible origin. His mind raced with thoughts of the supernatural, unsure of what lay hidden within the shadows.
"No, sir. I'm just a beautiful girl trapped within this mirror. Can you help me?" The girl's voice carried an irresistible sweetness, dissolving the worker's lingering apprehension. He felt an unexplainable urge to assist her, to be her savior.
"Yes, I will help you," the worker replied, succumbing to the enchantment and uncovering the mirror. As he peeled away the cloth, a soft glow emanated from within, casting an ethereal light across the room.
As the cloth was lifted, an ethereal beauty emerged from within—a woman with captivating blue eyes, flowing blue hair, and a flawless figure, completely nude. Her radiant presence filled the room, and for a moment, time stood still.
"Hello, mister," she greeted, waving her hand at the worker, her voice like a melodious symphony that resonated deep within his soul. Her confidence was palpable, a testament to her allure and mysterious power.
Entranced, he returned the gesture, lost in her bewitching presence. His eyes traced the contours of her body, appreciating her every curve, but his gaze held a glimmer of respect, recognizing her as more than just a mere object of desire.
"What's your name?" the girl inquired, her voice like honey, sweetening the air around them. Her curiosity matched his own, their connection growing stronger with each passing moment.
Bob tore his gaze away from her naked form for a moment, regaining his composure. "I'm Bob," he managed to say, his voice a touch breathless, but filled with a newfound sense of purpose.
"Oh, Mister Bob, that's a fine name. I am Vespera," she introduced herself, her name rolling off her tongue with an enchanting grace.
"Mister Bob, can you help me escape this confinement?" Vespera implored, her voice tinged with a plea for liberation. Her captivating eyes held a mixture of desire and vulnerability, forging an unbreakable bond between them.
Beneath the spell of her words, Bob's mind blurred, consumed by desire and fantasies that drowned out his rational thoughts. He imagined the possibilities, the intoxicating power that lay within his grasp.
"Can i do anything to you ?" Bob asked.
"Yes, anything. You can dominate me like a cheap whore, treat me as a mere vessel of pleasure, and I shall be your devoted slave for life," Vespera whispered, adopting seductive poses that ignited a primal fire within Bob's core.
Overwhelmed by lust and temptation, Bob feverishly scoured the storeroom, his eyes darting from object to object, searching for a means to break the mirror and set Vespera free.
Finally, amidst the chaos of his desire, his eyes fell upon a sturdy wooden chair, an instrument of liberation. Determined, he seized it and hurled it toward the mirror.
Dumm
The chair collided with the glass, but to Bob's dismay, it failed to make a dent. Frustration clawed at him, threatening to erode his resolve.
Confounded, he questioned the strength of his efforts, but before his thoughts could regain clarity, Vespera bent down, her fingers parting her glistening pussy lips, showcasing her enticing form, and spoke in a playful tone.
"Don't you desire this, Mister Bob?"
"Y-Yes, I want it," Bob answered, his voice laced with longing, his mind clouded by insatiable cravings.
"Then release me," Vespera purred, swaying her hips seductively.
"Yes, I will release you. Just wait," he vowed, his determination reignited. His gaze wandered around the storeroom, searching for something sturdier, something that could shatter the mirror's hold on Vespera.
Minutes stretched into an eternity as Bob's frantic search led him to a forgotten metal rod, hidden in a corner. With newfound determination, he grasped the rod and assaulted the mirror with unyielding blows.
With each strike, the mirror cracked, and a surge of anticipation coursed through Bob's veins. The barrier between them weakened, fueling his desire to claim what he believed was rightfully his.
"Yes, yes, break!" he shouted, pouring his very essence into the final blow.
Krrrr
In a cacophony of shattered glass, the mirror collapsed, releasing Vespera from her ethereal prison. The fragments fell to the ground, a testament to Bob's liberation and the birth of a profound connection.
But as the mirror shattered, Kale and Seti burst into the room, their arrival signaling an unforeseen interruption.
"Nooooooo..." Kale's cry of despair echoed through the chamber, shattering the intoxicating spell that had ensnared Bob.
Reality crashed down upon him.
[The
A translucent screen materialized in front of Anon.
"Fuck, we have to find a island or something to stop." Anon exclaimed, scanning the surroundings for any sign of land or an island.
"What? How do you propose we stop in the middle of the goddamn sea? Have you gone insane ?" Luna asked, her face filled with surprise.
"My skill is going on cooldown soon. Either you come up with a useful idea, or we'll both end up drowning," Anon stated firmly.
"But I... I don't know," Luna replied, her expression reflecting her confusion.
"Oh, sailor, sailor, lend an ear to my tune. I'll guide you to a realm where love grants immunity. A paradise beneath, where dreams and desires bloom. Oh, sailor, sailor, surrender to the sea," a melodious voice suddenly enveloped the entire expanse of the sea. Making the fishes dance in a trance beneath the water.
The voice resonated like silvery waves crashing upon the shore, weaving tales of passion and promising eternity. It was a symphony of enchantment, a sweet melody that captivated sailors, making their hearts skip a beat.
"Oh, shit. Is that what I think it is, Seraphina?" Landon asked, recognizing the song, almost immediately.
"Yes, it's the song of the sirens. Those creatures are vicious. I wonder how Anon plans on escaping them ?" Seraphina replied as she observed the screen in front of her carefully.
[Mind Control Effects have been Nullified due to the
[Skill
A notification appeared before Anon, eliciting a small smile from him.
"What's that sound?" Anon inquired even though he knew what
it was.
"Damn it, the sirens have spotted us," Luna exclaimed, covering her ears with both of her hands.
"Sirens? You mean mermaids and shit, right ?" Anon asked nonchalantly. An expression of curiosity forming on his face.
[Sirens]
In the depths of the mystical seas, where legends intertwine with the whispers of waves, dwell the ethereal beings known as sirens. These enchanting creatures embody a mesmerizing fusion of beauty and danger, their allure unmatched in the realm of fantasy.
Sirens possess an otherworldly elegance, their lithe and graceful forms reminiscent of celestial beings. Adorned with shimmering scales that cascade in iridescent hues, their slender bodies reflect light like precious gemstones. Their skin, porcelain-smooth and lustrous, bears a faint pearlescent sheen, a testament to their origin from the depths of the sea.
However, it is their voices that truly set sirens apart. When they sing, reality itself seems to tremble. Their melodic tones possess an otherworldly power, capable of entrancing even the most steadfast hearts. It is said that their songs weave tales of love, desire, and temptation, drawing unsuspecting souls closer to their embrace, luring them into the depths of the sea.
"Whatever you do, don't listen to their song. Just keep running forward, or we'll end up as their dinner tonight," Luna warned Anon.
"Do they perch on rocks while singing ?" Anon asked with curiosity.
"What?" Luna questioned, not understanding Anon's line of thought.
"If they're constantly singing, it means they're out of water. And if they're out of water, they must be sitting on a rock or something to lure us in, right ?" Anon explained.
"Are you mad? Are you actually considering getting closer to them?" Luna asked in disbelief.
"It's better than drowning," Anon replied, abruptly changing direction toward the source of the song.
"Oh my God, did Anon just turn toward the direction of the song?" Landon exclaimed, astounded.
"Landon, this kid is crazy. Usually, danger comes to you, but this kid always runs straight into danger. It's sheer madness," Seraphina exclaimed, bewildered.
"Sirens are formidable and intelligent creatures. What is he planning to do ? They will kill both of them without waiting another second." Samantha wondered, taken aback.
"I can't say what he'll do next, but i don't think he will die that easily." Jake commented, carefully observing Anon.
'Heh, do you really think that some mere sirens can touch him? A counsellor? They're nothing but toys in front of Anon. The moment they started singing, their countdown to death began ticking,' Frank thought, sporting a smirk on his face.
"No, no, no! We'll die if we go there!" Luna shouted desperately, but her warnings fell on deaf ears as Anon paid no heed and continued running toward the source of the song.
'Damn it, I think they've taken control of his mind. But why isn't their song affecting me?' Luna wondered, her gaze fixed on the direction Anon was leading them.
After sprinting for several seconds, a massive rock came to the sight in the middle of the sea.
The rock, resembling the tip of a mountain, had six or seven mermaids perched upon it.
"Anon, this is a terrible idea. Let's turn back. I can give you a mana potion, and we can swim across the sea," Luna suggested.
"Nope, I already told you I won't give you any potion. Now, just be quiet for a moment," Anon retorted firmly.
[30 seconds remaining until the Stamina Boost skill goes on cooldown]
Anon increased his speed, closing the distance between himself and the singing sirens.
"The human has arrived, sister," one of the sirens informed the one seated atop the rock.
"Let them rest on the rock, then slowly crush their minds. I don't want them to be afraid; frightened prey tastes awful," the Siren Queen commanded.
"As you wish, sister," the other siren replied, descending while the queen siren resumed her song.
[10 seconds remaining until the Stamina Boost skill goes on cooldown]
10... 9... 8... 7... 6... 5... 4...
Thud
Anon landed on the rock just as his skill went on cooldown.
[The Stamina Boost skill will be ready to use again in 4 minutes and 59 seconds]
"Ladies and gentlemen, as you can see, Anon has ventured into the sirens' domain. What lies ahead? Will he survive and continue the race? Will Luna remain unharmed? Will they escape or succumb to becoming the sirens' dinner?" Landon's voice resonated, building and suspense.