Lucian stared at the [Lens of True Sight] in his hands, his thoughts racing.
"First, I think I need an appraisal skill, and then, this thing shows up."
A grin spread across his face as an idea struck him. "Maybe I should start wishing for a beautiful immortal wife next?"
Of course, beauty wasn't the priority, Lucian's main focus was on combat prowess. He shook his head, amused by his thoughts, and equipped the Lens of True Sight. Then, he retrieved the newly acquired skill book: [Eight Trigrams Fist].
[Eight Trigrams Fist]
Quality: White
Description: Unlocks the martial art, Eight Trigrams Fist, upon learning.
"It's basic, but it'll do for now," Lucian mused.
In this era of countless power systems, traditional martial arts were merely a drop in the ocean. However, as a transitional skill in the early stages, it was still a valuable tool.
Yet Lucian hesitated. "It's not suited for someone like me."
The Eight Trigrams Fist was aggressive and explosive, ill-suited for his less-than-imposing demeanor. On the other hand, Lin Daiyu's absurd physical strength made her a perfect candidate.
The thought of Lin Daiyu delivering a devastating punch with her dainty fists was enough to bring a strange smile to Lucian's face. Without further delay, he made his way to find her.
Lin Daiyu was resting in the hut when Lucian entered. Upon hearing his intentions, her delicate face was filled with astonishment.
"Master, this skill book… it must be a treasure. Shouldn't you keep it for yourself?"
Her cheeks flushed faintly as she hesitated, clearly reluctant to accept something so valuable.
Lucian chuckled. "I'd only be wasting it. This technique was made for someone like you, not me."
Her eyes softened, touched by his sincerity. "If Master insists… I'll do my best."
With some hesitation, Lin Daiyu took the book. As she opened it, the skill book dissolved into a stream of light that flowed into her body.
Moments later, her eyes snapped shut as she processed the knowledge now imprinted in her mind.
When she reopened them, there was a newfound sharpness in her gaze. "So, this is the Eight Trigrams Fist…"
Lucian quickly pulled up her status screen.
[Lin Daiyu]
Skills: Eight Trigrams Fist (Level 1).
[Eight Trigrams Fist]
Level: 1 (0/100).
Quality: White.
Damage: 5 + 10% Physique / 10 + 15% Physique / 15 + 20% Physique… up to 40 + 45% Physique.
Description: A devastating martial art built on explosive power and relentless aggression.
The Eight Trigrams Fist consisted of eight moves, each increasing in damage and ferocity.
Lucian nodded in approval. "This skill is perfect for you, Daiyu. With your strength, its potential will be terrifying."
He wasn't exaggerating. With Lin Daiyu's Physique stat of 200, her punches could easily rival heavy artillery. In contrast, Lucian's attempts at using the skill would barely surpass the damage of a water gun.
Lin Daiyu smiled, her expression brightening. "Now I can better protect Master."
Her delicate features hardened with a faint trace of battle intent, and she clenched her small fists tightly, eager to test her newfound strength.
Lucian, fearing for the structural integrity of the hut, quickly intervened. "We'll test it tomorrow during the monster wave, alright?"
Lin Daiyu tilted her head slightly, reading his thoughts with a knowing smile. "As Master wishes."
The Fourth Day
By mid-afternoon, Lucian was busy organizing his resources.
As a former humanities student, he prided himself on his ability to efficiently allocate resources. With a healthy stock of Void Crystals and Void Origin Stones, he felt more secure than ever.
"Keep your resources ready, and you'll never have to panic," he muttered to himself.
Just as he finished tallying his inventory, there was a knock at the door.
"Master," Lin Daiyu's voice called softly from outside, "the monsters are here."
Lucian immediately stepped outside, Lin Daiyu gesturing toward three directions beyond the fence.
Through the gray mist, dark shapes began to emerge.
"Three directions at once?" Lucian frowned. "The numbers are increasing, and the defense towers can't cover every angle perfectly anymore."
Despite the challenge, Lucian remained calm. He adjusted his [Lens of True Sight] and activated the appraisal skill as one of the monsters stepped into view.
[Appraisal Successful!]
[Elite Dark Hunter]
Species: Demon / Void.
Level: 5.
Attributes:
Physique: 17.
Spirit: 4.
Skills: Quick Strike, Spear Throw.
Description: Survivors of a world consumed by darkness, these hunters now serve as pawns of the Void.
Lucian's eyes widened. "Elite monsters?"
Compared to the regular Dark Hunters from earlier waves, these were clearly on another level.
"Looks like things are starting to heat up," he muttered, turning to Lin Daiyu. "Get ready."
Lin Daiyu's expression didn't falter. Her serene gaze carried a hint of excitement as she flexed her hands, the power of the Eight Trigrams Fist flowing through her veins.
"Leave it to me, Master," she said softly.
Lucian nodded, determination settling in his chest. The fourth wave was here, and it was time to prove that his growing domain could weather any storm.