Chapter Three: The Lightning WithinFive years had passed since Taranis Storm first stepped into Bree, and in that time, he had transformed from an unsure outsider into a respected figure among the townsfolk. The days of wandering through the streets, wide-eyed and curious, were long gone. Now, he was known as a capable adventurer, always ready to lend a hand and tackle whatever challenges came his way.Taranis stood at the edge of Bree, gazing at the sprawling landscape beyond. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the fields. He flexed his fingers around the hilt of his sword, feeling the familiar weight in his hand—a reminder of the countless battles he had fought and the adventures he had undertaken.After years of hard work and numerous quests, he had reached level 10, a milestone he had celebrated in silence. The moment he unlocked the ability interface had filled him with a mix of excitement and trepidation. He recalled the thrill of discovering the mana stat—an entirely new aspect of his abilities.Name: Taranis Storm
Level: 10
Strength: 12
Agility: 10
Endurance: 11
Perception: 9
Luck: 6
Mana: 1
New Ability:
Lightning Sword: Infuses sword strikes with lightning (Once a month)Flame Shield: Creates a protective barrier of fire around the user (Once a month)He had been faced with a choice: Lightning Sword or Flame Shield. After considering both, he had opted for the former. The name Storm felt like a calling, and he couldn't resist the allure of wielding lightning in battle. Taranis had always preferred to attack rather than defend, and Lightning Sword felt like an extension of that philosophy.With each quest he completed, he had honed his skills, gathering rewards and earning the trust of the townsfolk. The ability to summon lightning with his sword became a powerful asset, and he often trained to improve his mana and explore the limits of his newfound powers—all while keeping his secret hidden from everyone."Level 10," he mused, a sense of pride swelling within him. He had fought bandits, rescued lost livestock, and dealt with various creatures threatening Bree. Each challenge had sharpened his skills, and each victory had filled him with purpose.As evening approached, Taranis headed into Bree, eager to catch up with the townsfolk. The market square was bustling with activity. Merchants called out their wares, children chased one another, and laughter echoed off the stone walls. It felt like home.A commotion caught his attention from the edge of the market. A group of people had gathered, their faces tight with concern. Taranis's curiosity piqued, and he quickly made his way over to see what was happening.A woman stood at the center of the crowd, her face pale and frantic. "They've taken my son!" she cried. "A band of goblins attacked our home! Please, someone help!"Taranis felt a surge of determination. This was a chance to help—and perhaps a moment to test his Lightning Sword. He stepped forward, drawing the attention of the crowd."I'll go," he said, his voice firm. "I'll find your son and bring him back."The woman's eyes filled with hope, but there was also fear. "You don't understand! They're dangerous!""I've faced worse," Taranis replied, confidence lacing his tone. "I can do this."With a few directions from the distressed mother, he set off toward the forest where the goblins were rumored to have made their lair. His heart raced as he ran, the adrenaline pumping through his veins. He couldn't shake the feeling of excitement at facing a real challenge.As he neared the forest's edge, he slowed his pace, scanning the trees for signs of movement. The light was fading, and shadows danced ominously. He gripped the hilt of his sword tightly, feeling the familiar rush of anticipation.Suddenly, a rustle came from the bushes nearby, and Taranis crouched low, ready for anything. He listened intently, the sounds of the forest fading away as he focused on the approaching threat.Then, out of the underbrush, three goblins sprang into view. Their eyes glinted with malice, and they snarled, brandishing crude weapons. Taranis stepped into a fighting stance, adrenaline flooding his system."Let's do this," he muttered, activating Lightning Sword. A bolt of energy surged through him, crackling at his fingertips. He felt a surge of power course through his body as his sword hummed in response, eager to channel the new ability.The first goblin swung its weapon, but Taranis was faster. He dodged, his sword glowing with electricity as he lunged forward. The blade met the goblin's chest with a sharp crack, and the creature convulsed, thrown back by the force of the lightning. It hit the ground, twitching.Taranis pivoted, eyes sharp. The second goblin rushed at him, but he was ready. With a quick slash, he unleashed a horizontal strike, electricity arcing from the blade and sending the creature sprawling. The last goblin hesitated, fear overtaking its bravado."Leave while you can!" Taranis shouted, his voice commanding. The goblin hesitated for a heartbeat before turning and fleeing into the forest, the sound of its footsteps echoing away.Panting, Taranis glanced down at his sword, still crackling with energy. The rush of power faded, leaving him breathless. He had done it; he had faced the goblins and saved the boy's life. But the mana used in the attack left him feeling drained, a stark reminder of the limits of his abilities.With determination renewed, he made his way deeper into the goblin lair. After a few tense moments, he found the boy, trembling but unharmed, hidden behind a stack of crates. "You're safe now," Taranis assured him, wrapping an arm around the child. Together, they made their way back to Bree, the boy's relief palpable.When they returned, the townspeople erupted in cheers. Taranis felt a sense of pride swell in his chest. He had done more than complete a quest; he had protected someone, and in doing so, he had solidified his place in this world.As he stood amidst the crowd, the little boy clinging to his side, Taranis Storm knew he was just beginning his journey. He had faced danger, gained a powerful ability, and discovered a sense of purpose. The lightning within him was just a taste of what was to come, and he was ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.