*A Call to Arms: Shaping the Next Epic Fantasy*
Dear valued readers,
As I navigate the final stretch of our current story arc, I invite your expertise in recommending fantasy novels that embody the following essential elements:
*World-Building*: Rich, immersive, and meticulously crafted worlds that transport us to new realms.
*MC Abilities*: Well-defined, technically explained magical systems or abilities that empower our protagonists.
*Power Systems*: RPG-inspired progressions, including:
‣ Cultivation
‣ Magic
‣ Dungeon crawling
‣ Tower climbing
‣ Kingdom building
‣ Limited ability-based growth
When suggesting books, please ensure:
- You've read or have knowledge of the plot and growth direction
- Clear MC abilities and power growth
- Engaging fight scenes and domain expansion
- Well-executed storytelling
I welcome diverse genres, including:
- Yuri
- Harem
- Poor-to-death protagonists
- Gal game protagonists
- Evil-justified protagonists
- Gender-bender protagonists
However, clarity in the protagonist's abilities and combat dynamics is crucial.
*A Challenge: Samuel's Physical Appearance*
As a thought experiment, describe Samuel's physical features from chapters 1-10. What image formed in your mind while reading?
*A Word of Apology*
Regarding upcoming updates, I apologize for any temporary inconsistencies. Rest assured, official chapters will rectify any discrepancies within a day.
*Your Input Matters*
As a reader-turned-writer-still-a-reader, I value your insights. Your recommendations will shape our story's future.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Sincerely,
[Concept_Supreme]
*Join the Discussion*
Share your favorite fantasy novels that fit these specifications.
Recommend books with well-crafted worlds, clear MC abilities, and engaging power systems.
Let's forge an epic fantasy together!
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""''''''
Chapter 25
°
°
°
°
°
°
°
°
As he gazed into Young Master Ryker's piercing eyes, he sensed a malignant undertone, a malevolent intent that reveled in his perceived inferiority. Ryker's unwavering confidence in hitting the target dead center without even glancing at it reeked of arrogance.
A fierce determination ignited within him.
Inspired by the unyielding spirits of his favorite novel protagonists, he vowed to defy the odds.
"If I succeed in hitting the target bullseye ten times, as you decreed," he began, his voice steady and measured, "what rewards would I reap, aside from merely avoiding expulsion from these esteemed grounds?"
His words dripped with subtle defiance.
Ryker's smirk faltered, his eyes narrowing.
"Go on," Ryker said, intrigued.
"You're implying this isn't a fair contest," he pressed.
"Your tone suggests I've already lost. How does that align with the principles of honorable competition?"
Ryker's expression darkened, his face twisting into a cruel smile.
"Principles of honorable competition..." Ryker chuckled, the sound dripping with malice.
"Ha ha ha... You think I was bargaining with you? Merely being given the opportunity to prove yourself before me is an honor for an ant such as yourself."
The air thickened with tension.
Ryker's words cut deep, but he stood firm.
"I refuse to be intimidated," he declared.
"I'll take your condescension as a challenge.
And if I win, you'll pay me 10 silver coins for wasting my training time.
Name your stakes, Young Master.
Let's end this farce."
His words dripped with defiance and sarcasm.
Ryker's laughter ceased, his eyes flashing with anger.
"Very well," Ryker spat.
Ryker's words sliced through the air, laced with venomous intent.
"It seems I've been too kind lately," he hissed.
"You dare address me with such impertinence?
Ten silver coins, as if your time held any value?"
Ryker's eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing.
"Tell me, what makes you think you're worthy of such payment?"
His voice dropped to a menacing whisper.
"Is it your skills, barely sufficient to warrant notice?
Your lineage, tainted by whispers of mediocrity?
Or perhaps your audacity, a foolhardy bravery that will be your downfall?"
Ryker's smile twisted, a cold calculation in his eyes.
"I'll give you credit, though."
"You're bold, I'll grant you that."
"But boldness alone won't save you from the depths of defeat."
He took a step closer, his presence suffocating.
"You're playing with fire, and you'll soon find yourself burned."
The air thickened, heavy with tension.
Ryker's words hung like a challenge, a gauntlet thrown.
Would he retreat, or rise to the provocation?
The silence stretched, a palpable living thing.
Then, with a quiet confidence:
"I'll show you my worth," he said.
"Not with words, but with actions."
His eyes locked onto Ryker's.
"The archery contest will settle this."
"Ten silver coins, and your public acknowledgment."
"Are you prepared to put your pride on the line, Young Master?"
Ryker's eyes flashed with contempt.
"You dare make wagers with empty pockets?" he sneered.
"Yet, you expect me to pay as if your words held weight?
Your perceived value is nothing but a mirage."
He took a step closer, his voice dripping with malice.
"Since you're so keen on betting with worthless chips, I'll give you a value worthy of recognition."
Ryker's smile twisted.
"I'll reduce you to something of true value – a slave."
"A commodity to be bought and sold."
"Your worth will be measured by the highest bidder."
"You'll learn the true meaning of value, kneeling before those who'll purchase your services."
The words cut deep, a cruel reality.
"You'll address your new masters with the respect they deserve."
"And perhaps, in time, you'll understand the worth of true value."
Ryker's gaze seemed to strip him bare, leaving him vulnerable.
"The archery contest remains."
"But now, the stakes are higher."
"Your freedom hangs in the balance."
"Win, and you'll walk away with ten silver coins and my acknowledgment."
"Lose, and you'll wear the chains of servitude."
The air thickened, heavy with the weight of Ryker's words.
The wager had become a matter of freedom.
Would he emerge victorious, or succumb to the shackles of slavery?
Ryker's eyes seemed to gleam with anticipation.
"The game begins."
"May the value of your skills be proven worthy."
Or would he become nothing more than a prized possession?