The city was abuzz with chatter as Aryan and Rahul walked through the streets, heading back to Aryan's apartment. The morning's training had drawn attention, and whispers about the "Awakened duo" began to spread. Aryan's ears caught snippets of conversations as they passed by groups of people.
"Did you see those guys at the park? They were moving like superheroes!"
"Yeah, I heard they're part of the Awakened. Maybe they'll fight the monsters that have been appearing."
"Do you think they'll form a guild? We could use more protection around here."
Aryan kept his gaze forward, his expression unreadable. He had no intention of revealing his plans or his knowledge of the future, but the public's growing interest in the Awakened was something he had anticipated. It was only a matter of time before people started idolizing them as celebrities.
Once they reached the apartment, Aryan closed the door behind them and leaned against it, sighing. "The public's already watching us, Rahul. We need to be careful about how we train and where."
Rahul nodded, still buzzing with energy from their morning session. "I noticed that too. But we need to keep training. There's so much to learn."
Aryan smiled faintly. "And we will. But we'll have to be discreet. For now, let's focus on our next move."
He walked over to the small table in the corner and unfolded a map of Mumbai, placing it in front of Rahul. "The dungeons are going to start appearing soon. They'll be ranked, just like the monsters inside them. We need to find the lower-ranked ones first to build our strength."
Rahul traced a finger along the map, looking at the city layout. "How do we know where they'll appear?"
Aryan tapped his temple, a shadow of a smirk playing on his lips. "I remember. I know where they'll show up, at least the major ones. The first dungeon will be in this area," he said, pointing to a location near the outskirts of the city. "It'll be an E-rank dungeon, manageable for us to start with."
Rahul's eyes lit up with excitement. "An E-rank dungeon... what's inside it?"
"Mostly goblins," Aryan replied. "They're weak, but they can be tricky in groups. The dungeon boss will be a Hobgoblin, a rank higher than the others. Clearing the dungeon will give us resources, items, and more experience to level up."
Aryan paused, considering the implications. "And more importantly, we'll gather Aura Stones. They'll be crucial for various technological and magical advancements."
Rahul nodded, absorbing the information. "So, when do we go?"
"Tomorrow at dawn," Aryan said. "We'll prepare today, gather supplies, and rest. Once we clear this dungeon, we'll move on to the next. We need to stay ahead of the other Awakened who'll soon realize the value of these dungeons."
Rahul clenched his fists, determination blazing in his eyes. "I'm ready, Aryan. Let's do this."
Aryan's gaze softened. "I know you are. But remember, this is just the beginning. There are many challenges ahead, and we'll face them together."