The victory over the Goblin King spread like wildfire. News of Aryan Sharma and Rahul Patel's triumph reached the ears of many, sparking conversations in markets, homes, and even government halls. Aryan and Rahul, however, remained focused on their journey, aware that this victory was just the beginning.
As they walked through the small town near the dungeon, the townspeople whispered and pointed, their faces a mix of awe and curiosity.
"That's Aryan Sharma," a shopkeeper murmured. "He took down the Goblin King."
"And the young man with him, Rahul," added another. "They're the rising stars among the Awakened."
Aryan noticed the attention but kept his focus. "We need supplies and information about the next dungeon," he said to Rahul. "Let's find a place to rest and plan our next move."
They entered a modest inn, where the innkeeper greeted them warmly. "Welcome, heroes! Your deeds have inspired many. Please, rest here for the night. It's on the house."
Aryan inclined his head in gratitude. "Thank you. We appreciate your kindness."
Once in their room, they reviewed their status windows, allocating their newly earned stat points.
Status Window - Aryan Sharma (24)Title: None
Affiliation: None
Rank: E
Level: 4
Class: Warrior
Stats:
Strength: 20
Agility: 17
Aura: 14
Intelligence: 11
Unallocated Stats: 10
Skills:
Basic Swordsmanship (E)
"I'll increase my strength and agility," Aryan decided. "We need more power and speed to handle stronger foes."
Status Window - Aryan Sharma (24)
Title: None
Affiliation: None
Rank: E
Level: 4
Class: Warrior
Stats:
Strength: 24
Agility: 20
Aura: 14
Intelligence: 11
Unallocated Stats: 0
Skills:
Basic Swordsmanship (E)
Rahul nodded, following Aryan's lead. "I'll focus on strength and aura. We need to balance our approach."
Status Window - Rahul Patel (22)
Title: None
Affiliation: None
Rank: E
Level: 3
Class: Warrior
Stats:
Strength: 21
Agility: 16
Aura: 16
Intelligence: 11
Unallocated Stats: 0
Skills:
Basic Swordsmanship (E)
As they finalized their allocations, there was a knock on the door. Aryan stood, opening it cautiously. A young woman with short, dark hair and a confident stance stood there.
"Aryan Sharma and Rahul Patel?" she asked. "My name is Priya Nair. I'm an Awakened warrior, and I've been following your progress. I believe we can help each other."
Aryan studied her, his instincts sharp. "What do you have in mind, Priya?"
"There's a dungeon not far from here," she explained. "It's a higher rank, and I've been gathering information. Alone, it's too risky, but together, we could clear it and share the rewards."
Rahul glanced at Aryan, who nodded. "We're listening," Aryan said. "Tell us everything you know."
Priya stepped into the room, unfolding a map. "The dungeon is ranked D," she began. "It's filled with Lizardmen, and at the core, there's a Lizardman Chief. We can expect significant resistance, but also greater rewards—including Aura Stones and rare items."
Aryan's eyes narrowed. "A D-rank dungeon is a serious challenge. Why approach us?"
Priya smiled. "I've seen your skills, and I need allies I can trust. You've proven yourselves. With our combined strengths, we can conquer it."
Rahul leaned in. "What do you gain from this, besides the loot?"
"Reputation," Priya admitted. "Clearing a higher-rank dungeon will elevate my status among the Awakened. It's mutually beneficial."
Aryan considered her words, then extended his hand. "Alright, Priya. Let's form an alliance. But remember, trust is earned."
Priya shook his hand firmly. "Agreed. Let's prepare and move at dawn."
As they finalized their plans, Aryan's thoughts drifted to the future. This alliance was a step toward rebuilding his strength and network, crucial for the challenges ahead.
With Priya now on their team, the path to conquering the Eternal Tower and the mysteries it held seemed a little clearer.