The challenge of collars
[Counting has started, the challenge will be two hours long, good luck everyone!]
I have no choice but to check the environment around me and see if I can get any information to help me.
I climbed a tree and decided to jump from tree to tree and thus get a better view of the things that happen below. Unfortunately I can't see the position of the sun because of the leaves, but it looks like from the shadows of some plants the sun is way up, so I can't get my bearings, plus the wind direction is not very reliable as this is not a real place, I'm going to go in any direction in a straight line for now.
But it wasn't long before I heard some noises of battles and rumblings coming from various places. Looks like the chase for the collars has already started, I'll be as cautious as possible.
My intention is to find the rest of my teammates to join us and think of a strategy, but for the time of the challenge it looks like I won't be able to do that. If I'm lucky I may find one of them, but until then I must act alone...
/Plants shaking!/
It didn't take me long to find someone too… there's someone there among the plants.
I stood on the branch watching who was going to leave, but…
- Fire arrow!
Damn, did that sound come from the left?
/Arrow flying!/
/Dodge!/
That was close! I managed to dodge the fire arrow, but now I had to land on the ground and the enemy already knows about me. Very smart...
- Whoever you are, I have no intention of fighting!
Luckily for me, in this kind of challenge sneak attacks don't work since to activate any skill you need to use your voice and as we are separated from our allies he has to speak so that I can hear, that is, the enemy is alone. But it was still very dangerous, his attack speed was very fast and I was distracted by the noise of those plants, but my reflexes managed to prevent it and now I know where the arrow came from.
- Looks like your silence says you won't let me go, right? But I already know where you are and you won't be able to hit me with your attacks!
It seems that the enemy is not in the mood for a truce, I can only act.
I advance towards the bush calmly and hold my sword with both hands. If he tries any close range attack I will try to counter attack and knock out the enemy…
What?
A potion vial? Where did it go… Wait! This is not right! The vial began to change the color of the contents from red to orange.
I jump back and go...
/BOOOMMM!!/
…
.
.
.
- Did it work?...
…
- He's not moving and the explosion got to him. Must have passed out! This fake healing potion trap is very useful for surprise attacks!
…
- Too bad he only has a red collar, but he seemed to be very dangerous...
When he got close with his hand on my neck I grabbed his arm and opened my eyes to see who I'm up against!...
- Thanks for telling me what color my collar is!... Wait... a dragon?! (Me)
- AAAHHH! Are you awake! But the explosion got you!
- That's definitely not enough to kill me.
- You are crazy? And by chance you pretended to pass out to ouch ouch ouch !
I squeezed his wrist a little tighter. Looks like he's not as strong as I expected.
- Are you a humanoid dragon by any chance?
From the voice it appears to be a boy.
- I don't have to say anything to you (¬_¬ )
- Playing tough, right? I think I will use you as bait to attract other players, what do you think?
- Wait, wait, wait just get my collar you don't need to do that!
- Hmmm , looks like someone is scared of what might happen! But what impresses me most is the cowardice of giving up so easily.
- Grrr ! Okay , I'll answer your question and we'll negotiate that truce from before again!
- No way, you blew me up and tricked me instead of wanting to talk, why should I make a deal with you now?
- So how about a temporary alliance? I help you get some collars and you give me another chance at a truce?
- And why would I trust you?
- What do you want from me then not to use me as bait? It wasn't my fault you got tricked by that trap!
- Who started wanting to fight was you instead of listening to me!
- ( `ε´ ) It's because we are in a challenge!
- Ah… arguing here only makes me waste more time than I have! Besides, your collar is also red, it won't make up for all the work you gave me. I'll give you this last chance to go and don't tease me anymore!
After lifting myself off the ground, I let go of the boy's arm and I continued walking in a straight line.
…
But...
- Wait!...
- What do you want?
- Actually I really need help… My name is Ryukki , and I'm a bronze draconage . ( Ryukki )
- Why this changing now? I said you can go, I have no time to waste with you!
- For some reason I feel that you are the right person who can help me. In my first attempt to take someone's collar I just failed and I'm sure other players won't be kind like you. I ask you to rethink the help, I am willing to return the favor!
- I do not think that…
- Please!
He tilted his head as a way of begging for the request.
- Ah… If we find someone with a golden collar then it's mine! And if you try anything against me I promise I'll make you regret it!
- Right! Thank you very much!
He looks happier than I expected.
***
PoV - Raild
Where did everyone go?
…
I look around.
I think I should be more concerned about myself, I don't know where I am or where to go. Also, I can't see what color my collar is. I don't think there's any way, I'm going to risk getting some collars stealthily, for the time of the challenge if I stay still too long I could end up risking much more than my collar and the team's score.
But where should I go first?
…
/Plants moving!/
What's this? Is someone coming towards me?
The noise is increasing more and more. Damn, they've already spotted me and they're heading straight for me. I couldn't even think of a plan!
I pick up my daggers and get into a defensive position.
Whoever it is must be someone quite confident to want to come face to face with me!
…
Wait… I think I'm hearing… a scream from…
It can not be!
It's not possible that this is actually happening!
There's only one idiot who rushes forward screaming without even thinking about what to do and he's coming right towards me!
- AAAAAAAAHHHHH! ( Adrick )
- Of so many people that you could go to attack, why am I destined to find you, you windhead?!
What?
Even seeing me he didn't stop advancing?!
/Ax slash!/
/Detour!/
- YOU FOOL! ARE YOU WANT TO KILL ME?! WE ARE THE SAME TEAM!
- Ah, it's the lazy boar! Hi!
/Punch to the head!/
- Don't come with that "Hi", you brainless gorilla!
It's not possible that the universe hates me that much.
- So the color of your collar is red... What's the color of mine? (Me)
- Golden. ( Adrick )
- I don't know if I should be happy or sad about it ( TヘTo )
- So you're earning points?... Hunf , I won't allow it! I'll get a lot of collars until you're last!!!
- It looks like you would…
Wait…
In the situation we are in, for having a golden collar, I will be persecuted a lot by others. Taking advantage of this dwarf to get other collars while protecting mine is the easiest way to survive this challenge!
- In fact, I'll get more collars than you until you run out of collars to get and lose in last!
- So it's a competition to see who gets the most collars?
- Exactly! Whoever loses pays for lunch for the other!
- THERE IS! I'm going to order all of the Padourant's dishes !
- Who said you'll win?!
/Bushes moving!/
A person appeared in the middle of the bushes and when he saw me and Adrick he started yelling at someone…
- Here! Chief Ludisck , I met the people who are arguing!
It seems that I and the dwarf were talking loudly... "^^)>
A few seconds were enough to show eight people and another guy who dresses in weird clothes that nobles usually wear, must be Ludisck .
- Hmm! Surrender to me, you insolent ones! In front of my presence you must kneel down and beg me to spare your lives and maybe I will end up turning you into my lackeys too?! HA HA HA HA HA HAAA ( Ludisck )
Great, it was the idiot we were needing to get some points!
- I will order all the desserts from the Padourant , I hope you have a lot of money saved! (Me)
I ran towards the enemy and it didn't take long for Adrick to run out to attack as well.
- Don't talk nonsense, you treacherous boar!! I will win! ( Adrick )
Great, I managed to get his attention to fight too. Looks like my bad luck just went away after I got here.
I will take this opportunity and make the best score I can with Adrick .
***
PoV - Lahri
I hope Lyunil and the others are close. This challenge doesn't seem right.
Anyway I got some collars with some weak players who tried to attack me. But I have to be careful with high ranked players , I will definitely be in a difficult situation.
From what I noticed my collar is red along with four more red collars that I got I have five stitches in total.
Interesting that when you pick up someone's collar the person is immediately transported and the collar is magically adjustable to fit any size. I decided to put the four collars on as a bracelet on my left arm.
/Weeds moving!/
Looks like one more came to try and get my collar. I pick up my sword and prepare to land the blow as soon as the enemy appears.
- Is it you, Lahri ?...
- Hmm? Are you there, master?!... Oh, it's you...
He appears walking calmly.
- That reaction of yours was a little painful to hear. I apologize for not being the person you expected. ( Kaule )
- No, it's nothing like that! I wasn't expecting Lyunil !!!
- Really? Did I think you and he had a closer relationship?
( 〃￣ω ￣〃ゞ( Kaule )
- OHN?! WHY DO YOU THINK THAT?! HE AND I JUST MADE A DEAL! Besides, he and I don't even match!!
- Serious? You've already slept on his shoulder, been carried several times by him, slept in the same room he was in and almost managed to kiss...
- KYAAAA!!! THAT'S NOT IT, YOU PERVERT!!!!
- Pervert?
- THE THINGS THAT HAVE HAPPENED SO FAR WAS NOT BECAUSE HE AND I HAVE A RELATIONSHIP OF THIS KIND!!!!!!
- Miss Lahri , I think you better reduce your voice a little or we will draw a lot of attention.
- But you need to understand that...
- I understand what you mean, but maybe you are not able to understand yourself.
- Which? What do you mean by that?
- The way your body reacts is different from what you try to say. Mainly your tail.
- (⁄ ⁄•⁄ω⁄•⁄ ⁄) i-it 's not what you're thinking…
- Rest assured, I didn't comment on anyone that day and also no one is judging you for being like that, but I think you could reflect a little more on yourself.
About me?
- We figured where the noise came from, boss! It's a weird leaf guy and a girl… fox? Or a cat?
They keep asking themselves that. One day I will find out the answer.
- Looks like we have to fight. I'm counting on your help, Miss Lahri ! ( Kaule )
- Right!...
I need to understand better what he meant by that and I think that working together will get more points than fighting alone.
***
PoV - Lyunil
We keep walking along any path waiting for an opportunity to get more collars.
- You said it's a draconage , what is it?
- You must have already heard about the Neromi race , right? Most Neromis are common humanoid animals . But there are some special Neromi bloodlines and the Draconages is one of them. But unlike ordinary Neromis , we Draconages don't have the same freedom...
- Freedom? Does this have to do with the bronze dragon?
- Yes… The common Neromis were born to protect the works of the great Primordial Titan of Earth, but we Draconages were born to serve our dragon lords according to our lineage. And as I said before, I am a bronze draconage and serve the great bronze dragon master.
Grand Primordial Titan of Earth? Is he talking about Brother Thyrus ?
- What does the earth titan have to do with dragons and Neromis ?
- You do not know anything? Where did you come from by any chance?
- I thought "earth titan" was just an amazing title. Would n't Brother Thyrus be some kind of super strong spirit capable of controlling the earth?
- THAT'S NOT IT! AND IT IS SOVEREIGN THYRUS!!!!
- Shhh , don't yell if you won't get a lot of attention!!!
- It's your fault for disrespecting our sovereign!!! Primordial Earth Titan participated in the creation of this world and it was he who created the Neromi race and the dragons!
- WHAAAAT?!
- Shhhh , you're screaming too loud!!
- You mean Thyrus created the dragons?
- It is sovereign Thyrus ! And not only that, he created the forests and all the irrational animals and creatures, plus some intelligent races too...
- Wooww this is amazing! I did not know that!
- Uhmm ! It's more than amazing! He is a true hero too, he fought the Titan of Destruction and his allies at the time of the great Titans War!
- What? War of the Titans?!
You mean brother Thyrus did all this?
- I'm surprised you didn't know anything about it!
- Hehe "^^)>
- ...but on the other hand I envy you for being an adventurer...
- What do you mean by that?
- ...because of my duties to my clan, I don't have the same freedom as other races have...
- But you are here now, participating in the challenges of the Tower!
- Yes… but not in the way I would like… My father allowed me to come so that I can improve my training with magic and achieve the desire he seeks so much.
- Was your father called by the Tower?
- It was not me.
- So it's you who should fulfill your wish!
- No, no, that's impossible! I must fulfill my duties as heir to the main bloodline of the bronze draconages ! My wish would only get in the way of my responsibilities!
/Blow to the head!/
- Ouch ! ( Ryukki )
- If you complain more I'll hit again!
- Why did you do that?
- Isn't that obvious?
- Hitting me won't change my situation!
- But it will change your mind!!
- …
- Thinking that way will only make your situation worse. Whoever was called by the Tower was you, so you can't give up on your dreams so easily!
- Are you telling me to disobey my father?
- Puhh … wrong!
I cross my arms in an "X" shape.
- I can't understand you!
- Tell me what your wish is?
- ...I want to be an adventurer...
- …
- Why did you keep quiet?
- HAHAHAHA!
- DON'T LAUGH AT ANYONE'S DESIRE, YOU IDIOT!
- You've already got your wish...
- That's not what I meant! I want to become an adventurer who doesn't have to worry about annoying ceremonies and duties that keep me at home every day! I want to explore the world and become a real hero like the Great Titan of Earth!!
- That's why you should keep fighting for what you dream and not give up without trying! As I was saying, you've already achieved your wish by starting your journey in this Tower, you just need to fight so that your dream doesn't get far from you!
- Which?
- Your heart already says that you are an adventurer, you just need to prove to yourself and others that this is true!
- But my father...
- Your father is not here now!
- Only in the future I…
- You haven't arrived in the future yet!
- …
- Stop making excuses to give up, how will you act when you take your father's place I don't know, it could be that you change everything in your family and cause a scandal, or that you run away without anyone knowing or that you find the solution to remain an adventurer while ruling your clan. But right now you're just an adventurer who wants to become a hero, show your real fight for your ambition with attitudes and not excuses!
He stared at me for a while, not knowing what to say.
Then he turned his face away quickly.
And he started rubbing his hands over his eyes.
- You are crying?
- No need to say it out loud!
- I think I said too much...
- Thanks!
- … Which?
- I think it's the first time I've heard someone say that I can run after my dream...
- "^^)>
- Why is the boy crying?
- I think it's because of the animation that… wait…
- Lyunil ! Watch out! An enemy!!!!
I look to the side and realize there's someone short.
- Stay away Lyunil , I'll hit him with a spell...
- BETUNEM!!
- LYUNIL!!!
- I can't believe I could find you, Betunem! I wondered what kind of situation you could be in, actually, how did you show up on my side without anyone noticing?
- It's just that I didn't want to disturb your moment… (Betunem)
- I understood. (Me)
- THAT DOESN'T EXPLAIN ANYTHING! AND WHY ARE YOU TALKING LIKE YOU'RE IN A SQUARE!? WE ARE IN THE MIDDLE OF A CHALLENGE!!! ( Ryukki )
- Shhh , you'll get the attention of other players!! (Me)
- No problem, the more people participate in the conversation the better! (Betunem)
- What's going on here ?? ( 〒﹏〒) ( Ryukki )
- Ryukki , this is Betunem, he and I met a little while ago (in the queue before starting the challenge) and we talked a little and I realized that he is a very amazing person!
- Well, don't say that, I'm just a simple music lover, I think Mr Lyunil is much more amazing than me! (Betunem)
- Surely you are the best Betunem! And that draconage is Ryukki met him a little while ago too and was telling him not to be a loser!
- Don't make fun of me!! ( Ryukki )
- It's a pleasure to meet you Ryukki ! (Betunem)
- Ahn … Oh… the pleasure is all mine! ( Ryukki )
- Now we can continue this challenge together!
- Which? ( Ryukki )
- Actually, I'm glad I found you Lyunil , I need to tell you something important. (Betunem)
***
PoV - Lahri
/ Tired breathing!/
We're finally done with them. They were quite annoying, but with Kaule's help we got five more red collars and a gold one, with Kaule's collar which is also gold we got 20 points in total.
- Are you all right, Lahri ?
- Yes… I'm fine… let's just rest a little before we continue looking for more people…
I sat on the floor and put my sword back in my inventory.
Kaule sat a little farther away and removed his mask.
Come to think of it, he keeps wearing this mask for what reason? Was that how he found out I was here at the time?
- A question came to me, how did you know it was me at that time?
- I usually hear the whisper of trees and plants, even if here is a place created by someone, it doesn't change the fact that they are plants and that I can hear them. That way I can find out if anyone is coming for us.
- That's a big help! I'm counting on you then...
He nodded while smiling slightly.
I think I will now be able to think about what he said before.
- Is… Mr. Kaule ?
- You can just call me Kaule .
- Hmm … right… Kaule , what did you mean about that? To reflect on myself...
- Hmmmm , it's not something I'm going to be able to tell you the answer you want, I just said it to be honest with yourself about how you feel about things.
- Are you talking about how I feel about Lyunil ?
- I didn't mention his name, but if he's the first person that came to your mind, there's no way.
- (⁄ ⁄•⁄ω⁄•⁄ ⁄) n-it 's not what you're thinking…
- Rest assured, I understand you well… sometimes we can't control what we feel…
- ...you look sad for saying that... did something happen?
- … Ah, I apologize for upsetting you with my sad expression!
- You do not need to say sorry…
- ^^)!
He gave a slight smile, but this time I could see he wasn't sincere. He must be sad because of what he said...
- Is there someone you love, Kaule ?
- Why the question?
- You looked pretty sad when you said that… I thought you'd be in trouble because of someone…
He was back with that sad expression.
- I'm sorry, I didn't want to talk about...
- It's all right. You're right about what you said… a long time ago there was a girl I loved and I was betrothed to her. I had been very happy to have met her and to learn from her about many things, but there came a day when she was taken away from me and I couldn't do anything... it's been 325 years and I've never had the opportunity to see her again. again… but I'm still wondering how she would be right now, if she's alright and if she still remembers me… sorry, for saying a story like that, I didn't mean to make you cry ^^)>
- Huh ?
What? I'm crying? I… didn't realize…
- I may have said a lot of confusing things to you before, but you don't have to care what I said, I said that because I wouldn't want to see someone going through the same situation as me...
- Kaule !
- ?
- Thank you!
- Why are you thanking me and... hugging me?...
I couldn't contain myself and I needed to hug him. It must have been too painful and it must have been too sad to remember such a moment...
- I hope from the bottom of my heart that you can meet her again!!!
- Thank you for your concern, but I prefer to leave it in the hands of those who operate our destinies, if it is possible for me to meet her again I will certainly never let her go again...
- But this is not your wish?
- Unfortunately not… there is something even worse that I need to fix…
- Even worst?
- Lahri , it seems that there are more people approaching us from the west, please get ready to fight.
***
PoV - Raild
- HA HA HA !!! ( Adrick )
- Be silent, you noisy idiot!
- I said I would get more collars than you!
He really did it, he advanced on enemies without thinking once, now he is full of bruises, but tore off all the collars of whoever he found in front of him. Only a rhinoceros like him could use such a brutal strategy.
Luckily we have eight red collars and two gold ones, a total of 18 points.
- Let's go towards where that noise of someone screaming came from!
- It's no use trying to get more people to pick up collars, in the end I'll get them all before you!!
- Don't be finding yourself just because of two more collars, you'll run out of energy before me doing attacks like that.
- Hum, that's what you think, you loser boar!
If I'm not mistaken the sound came in that direction then…
- Pay attention, airhead! First let's see how many enemies you have and then you run into them. If you arrive screaming like you always do you will scare them and they will run like zebras.
- Don't worry, I'm faster than a zebra!
- But catching one zebra is worse than catching several zebras!
- It makes sense…
- When I give the signal you go forward with everything!
- Right!
Now I just need to get a little closer without them realizing I'm here. I walk through the bushes and silently approach to see how many enemies there are…
It seems there are only three, if there is no one who has separated from the others...
Wait a minute…
- Lyunil ?!
I got up without thinking to see if it really was him!
- Raild ?! ( Lyunil )
- It's you! And who…
- AAAAAAHHHHH ( Adrick )
Damn it! I forgot that detail!
- Don't attack, you wild rhino! Can't you see it's...
/Butt Blow!/
Too late…
PoV - Lyunil
- Lyunil , are you okay? (Betunem)
- Lyunil ? ( Ryukki )
- There is! They can all come at once… Lyunil , is that you? ( Adrick )
I decided to stay a few seconds on the ground to regain my strength. That headbutt was a very painful low blow…
- Who are you? ( Raild )
- They are companions I met a short time ago, don't worry… ough …
- You'll be fine? ( Raild )
Raild approached me and held out his hand to help me up.
- I will, I just need to catch my breath...
I took his hand and slowly got up.
- Ryukki and Betunem, these are Raild and Adrick , they are my guild and journey companions…
- It's a pleasure to meet you two. (Betunem)
- H-hello !! ( Ryukki )
- No need to worry, they are reliable. What did you want to tell me, Betunem?
- It's about my collar, I would like to give it to you. (Betunem)
- Why you… A WHITE COLLAR?!!
- WHICH?! (x3)
- SHHH (Betunem)
- Why do you want to do this? I can't accept...
- Don't worry, I want you to accept! I have no interest in participating in this challenge, but I couldn't give this collar to just anyone and that's why I chose to give it to you, I know you will need it a lot more than I do and it serves as a thank you for being so kind to me! (Betunem)
- Bettun, but I don't even...
- I think it's my turn too! Now that you've found your mates you can better concentrate on getting more points, mine might be red, but it's better than nothing. ( Ryukki )
- But Ryukki , you said…
- I'm not interested in this challenge either and besides I'll be a hindrance for you since I can't use my spells right. ( Ryukki )
I took a deep breath…
- Thank you very much, I'll owe you a favor too!!
- I would be happy if you would just accept to hear me in a performance someday! Good luck in the challenge, my dear friend Lyunil ! (Betunem)
He removed his collar and handed it to me, then was transported immediately.
- When you can, I would like you to come to my guild to help me train to be a true adventurer! I also wish you luck in the challenge. ( Ryukki )
And so did Ryukki .
- Thank you so much!... You can be sure that I will reciprocate someday!
I cannot let their kindness and trust go in vain. I will continue and get the best score in this challenge.
- With that, Lyunil got 51 points… with his collar it's 52 points ( ￣￣|||) and he didn't even make any effort… ( Raild )
- Damn, I didn't know the kid was that good… I'm going to need a lot of collars to be able to beat him! ( ╯ _ ╰ ) ( Adrick )
- Why are you sad, these points will be useful for our guild!
It seems that when the collar is removed from someone, it is adjustable to any size…
I'll put the white collar on top of my collar and the other red collar on top of the white one, I think it will draw less attention this way.
- What do you intend to do now? ( Raild )
- Win this contest!
***
PoV - Vinna
So the Lyunil boy got the white collar? I think the correct phrase would be to say that the collar came to him.
This boy can really surprise anyone...
- Do you seem interested in one of the participants, Vinna ? ( Fearow )
- I'm just watching the direction the white collar is taking, Fearow !
- Is the boy who was ranked in rank 6 of power - dark orange? No need to keep monitoring him, division A of the monitoring group is taking care to observe all the participants from rank 5 upwards. ( Fearow )
- It means I can sleep relieved to know that.
- Hmm… your sarcasm is still sharp.
- But you never cared about it, did you?
- Exactly, haha . I think her thorny way lives up to her old title Little Rose.
- I appreciate your praise, but only the former king called me that. It's been a long time since I heard that title...
- I understand… for me it's still hard to believe that he's gone…
- If we had...
- Don't say anything else! Let's not dishonor his death...
I squeeze his hand tightly, but he's right, we can't dishonor his death.
- Just take the opportunity to see how the participants act and try to get some rest.
He turned away and walked towards the monitoring room of the sentinel file.
- Fearow ...
- Hmm? How unexpected.
He stopped as soon as I called him.
- Do you really think anyone is capable of being like the old king?
- Certainly not.
- Then why should we do this? I don't think anyone deserves his crown either!! Can't we just do it another way?
- We can't go back anymore, besides that was the former king's wish before he died.
- …
- But I promise you that I will not allow the honor of this crown to be tarnished by someone unworthy. Even if centuries pass, as long as I'm alive I will fulfill the master's wish perfectly.
He continued walking and retreated to the living room.
But he's right, even if it's painful to do this, we'll do it with as much dedication as possible. At least that way we can allow him to rest in peace.
I continued watching the screens that convey the challenge. But something seems strange… is the screen showing the magic concentration graph on the ground dirty?
It shows a map with blue spots in places that have the highest concentration of magic. And as expected, the places that show the five strongest players are with very large and dark blue spots, with Lyunil's discovery he is the sixth strongest, but where he is there is nothing but a little black dot...
Is it dirty?
- Could someone clean up that mess on the G27, please?
- Ms. Vinna , it's not a mess problem...
- Which?
- Ms. Vinna , we detected that this black dot in the G27 region is a condensed magic reading at the cosmic level!!
- It's not possible!
[Error! System hack! The magic energy limit has been exceeded! An unidentified new magic reading was taken! Invasion of the sentinel file!]
- Has someone invaded the challenge area? Who could be able to do that?... ( Vinna )
***
PoV - Lyunil
- Let's continue along the path towards...
What is it?
Suddenly, in the middle of the scene, something weird appeared. A black glowing sphere?
- Are you seeing this?
- What is it? ( Raild )
- What is going on? ( Adrick )
The sphere began to suck in the surrounding terrain... as if it were a small black hole?...
But it wasn't strong enough to pull us, comment on the leaves that were around, but then the sphere changed shape and became a huge oval mirror… with equal bright spots of a starry sky and captivating colors that held the attention in front of so much beauty…
What is happening?
Suddenly a person started to come out of that mirror!
So this thing is a portal?
The person who came out of that portal looked around, not saying a word. His expression is extremely serious but calm.
Then he looked at me and started walking towards me.
- Who are you? ( Raild )
Raild asked, but he didn't answer anything. In fact he must have ignored Raild's existence , his behavior was like there was no one and he kept walking towards me...
From what I understand it's a human, with bright light blue hair and fair skin. He is very tall and wears a weird but elegant outfit equal to or even prettier than a formal dress, all black and with bright dots, a vision equal to the portal that had come out.
Who is this guy?
In his footprints it seems that there was some kind of sparkling dust that soon disappeared when he took another step. It was as if he was bathed in the cosmos...
But he kept approaching me. I started to pull away a little.
He started watching me as if he was looking for something...
- Did you come after Sacri ?
But he didn't respond.
Adrick and Raild decided to attack this mysterious man together. But there's something wrong with him...
- Adrick , Raild , don't do this!
But they didn't listen to me.
Damn, the mysterious guy made a face of dissatisfaction on his face. He… intends to kill them both in one blow!
I can't hold back now, I need to use all the power I have!
In a rush I run towards Raild and Adrick and remove their collars before that guy lands a blow on both of them. Even so, his attack was very fast and ended up hitting me and even though I was able to defend myself with my arms crossed, I received very painful wounds in both arms, but I still manage to fight.
I pulled away from him in the opposite direction from which I was.
- What are you doing here? Who are you?
- Ah… / Sigh /
He sighed carelessly.
- Give me to Jadi , please!
- Which? My sword? Why do you want her?
- Give me the sword! Please!
He started looking at me with an angry, intimidating expression. I can say with certainty that this guy is strong… much stronger than I can handle…
- I can't deliver the sword to strangers like you. At least say who you are!
As soon as he lets his guard down I run as fast as possible.
- Ah… / Sigh / I have no choice but to kill you and take the sword by force.
Damn it, he won't let me get away.
I turn quickly to escape… What? How did he get in front of me so quickly?!
Urgh !!
He reached out and lifted me off the ground while hanging me...
I try to thrash around and punch his arm or kick him, but he goes still and tightens his grip on my neck harder and harder.
- If you give me the sword, I'll let you breathe again.
Damn it! I really can't breathe anymore.
He's not interested in collars, he just wants my sword, but…
ARGH!!
I have no choice, this way I really will die and I won't be able to fulfill the promises I made, nor return the favor of Betunem and Ryukki .
I take the sword from its scabbard and hand it to the mysterious guy. He takes the sword and drops me to the ground...
I breathe quickly and become more aware again. / Cough ! Cough !/
This guy is a monster…
- Now I'll take you and pick up your brothers, Jadi .
Has he started talking to the sword?
But there's something wrong with the sword. She started to expel an intense red aura… what's wrong with her?
- Don't be stubborn, it's no use staying stuck here...
Suddenly the sword jumped out of his hand and landed next to me. And he jerked his hand away. It's as if the sword had repelled his hand...
- I can't believe you'd rather trust this kid than me!
They keep talking.
- I understand… you're right…
What? Is the sword convincing him? What is going on?!
- But this may be the last chance you can come with me! The others already know I'm here and will look for me quickly.
- You are talking…
- Silence!
He stared at me seriously and without thinking twice I didn't say anything else.
- OK I will do it…
He turned his back to me and opened another portal to leave. But before he left he stopped and spoke to me.
- Hey, insignificant brat, I'll just say this once and I hope I listen carefully. The Jadi trust you, but I do not, if I happen to notice any suspicious attitude on the slightest that is coming from you, I come again to personally put you in your place. Did you understand?
- I understand… can I at least know the name of who is trying to kill me?
…
He hesitated for a moment, but it ended up revealing.
- ... Keinf . ( Keinf )
And he walked in without saying anything else and not even looking back.
What was it that just happened?
I felt death so close to me...
I started rubbing my hand on my neck and felt something wrong…
Where are the collars?
When he hanged me, did he take the collars? But why am I still here? Shouldn't I be transported?
I looked around and breathed a sigh of relief! Everyone's collars had just fallen off farther, but it's actually pretty weird that he managed to pull my collars off like that and I'm still here.
I need to be more careful from now on, inside this Tower there is no safe place...
- Hm? Looks like there are several collars here!
Damn, someone else showed up, but this time it's definitely a player.
- These collars already have an owner, and they are all mine, I will not allow you to take any!
I was almost killed a few seconds ago and I have to fight again... and this state I'm in just shows that I need to get even stronger, or I won't be able to continue my mission here in the Tower...
- How is this possible? You're off a leash and still here? Tsk , these idiot supervisors really can't do a job right.
After getting up and picking up my sword I got a better look at who the person I'm about to face is.
It's another guy, certainly less flashy and weaker than the Keinf who just left. Spiky black hair and a bored expression on his face, several scars on various parts of his body and wearing a very simple outfit with no protection whatsoever.
He ignored my presence and started grabbing the collars in front of me.
Now he made me mad.
I advanced towards him and used my sword to land a blow on him, he didn't even move, but before the blow hit him, he just raised his arm and… defended from my blow?
...
He continued putting the collars in the bag tied around his waist as if nothing had happened!
I kept trying to attack him, but the same thing happened every time, he defended with his own hands and arms without even looking at me and nothing happened to him!
- Hmm? A white collar?
- NOT! I WON'T LET YOU TAKE IT!
I got the collar before him.
- Hmm?
- These collars are mine, they were entrusted to me, so I won't let you take them!
- So you want to fight for them?
- Yes, that's what I…
What?
/Punch! Punch!/
Before I could finish the sentence, he punched me in the stomach area, I defended with my injured arms and even then I felt the pain as if it had hit my stomach. It was so strong that I could feel my feet lifting off the ground for a few seconds and before I could feel my feet on the ground again he punched me in the face without my being able to defend myself and I flew away!...
Argh , my body doesn't want to move...
/ Cough ! Cof !/
I could feel the blood coming out of my mouth…
However, he approached me and took the white collar.
He put it in the bag and continued walking down another path.
- Wait…
He stopped and looked at me.
- I'm still alive… / Cough ! Cough !/ give me back the collars…
- If you want them, just take them.
And kept walking.
I could feel my body screaming in pain and my head begging me to stay lying down, but I didn't care and got up.
I picked up my sword and concentrated my remaining strength on this blow.
- Hmm? Want to use a last resort?
My sword began to glow brightly.
- RADIANT…
- Let's see what you're capable of, boy.
He turned towards me and stood there waiting to take the blow with a smile on his face.
I didn't hesitate and went with everything I had.
- ...CUT!
And I landed the blow directly across his chest.
The force of the blow was so strong that even some trees and plants around were cut down and started to burn because of the skill's effect, a dust smoke invaded the place because of the earth from the ground that was blown with the blow.
I started breathing heavily, but it must have worked, he was too confident and didn't expect me to use a blow like that...
- HA, that was very interesting! What's your name, boy?
What?
He is still alive?...
- I asked your name! Don't you remember?
- L- Lyunil …
- Right! This little scar you left on me will be remembered, Lyunil !
He showed me a small thin line on his chest the same length as my thumb. Is that what I did to him?
And he didn't even use an ability to defend himself?
I mean that all the bigger scars he has on his body...
It's not possible…
No… it can't be true…
But I'm at level 100! Wasn't it supposed to be the highest level?
…
Me…
Am I that weak?
PoV - Vinna
I had no choice but to fix the problem myself, so I moved into the sentinel file. But I arrived too late to catch the intruder.
Because of the intruder, it interfered with the sentinel file system… that's why Lyunil is still here, but I decided to give him a chance to continue the challenge.
However, the opponent he ended up meeting was really a misfortune.
But it's already over, all that's left is to admit defeat and I'll take him back to the kingdom.
- My name is Brody, I hope I can face you again in the future when you become even stronger! (Brody)
Brody continued on his way and Lyunil stood there with a terrified expression, it was a little humiliating for him to see him in this state, but he is finally understanding what the Tower really is...
- WAIT!!! ( Lyunil )
What is he doing?
- I said I won't let you take the collars...
What is happening? Has his hair started to change color? And it turned black?!
It wasn't just his hair color that changed… his strength and power is increasing as well…
- Impressive! Do you have any more tricks in store? This time I'm going to take you a little more seriously. (Brody)
Lyunil's strength may have increased, but Brody must still be stronger than he...
/Punch!/
WHAT?
Did he throw a punch that made Brody move? How strong did this boy get?
…
They began to fight more and more seriously, both hitting each other with just their fists and feet. The vegetation around starts to disappear more and more and the fire to spread.
This is not going to end well…
/ Zim Zim !/
Is anyone wanting to talk to me?
I turn on my Skylet and see it's Fearow …
[" Vinna , you should end the problem immediately, the limit the sentry file can handle is almost reached, the damage the intruder caused with the system distortion was too great, and two rank 6 fighting could end up making the situation worse. !"]
- Okay, I'll take care of it right now...
I have no choice.
I come out of my hiding place and head towards Lyunil . I use my wires to speed up my movement and I'm just going to have this chance to pass the kid out. I'm going to enjoy the distraction of fighting Brody. I place the wires in this direction and height. Here, here, here… I speed up my movement even more between the remaining plants and prepare several wires capable of cutting him, but I know this won't be enough to catch him, but I know exactly where he will end up.
I shoot a tranquilizer dart in the distance and separate the two, they both throw themselves backwards, but behind Lyunil is the wires I prepared, he manages to dodge each one, but as expected, when he dodges the last wire he stops in position that I wait and hit a tranquilizer dart with my own hand slicing the back of his neck.
He resisted a little, but in the end he ended up falling...
One more plan successfully executed.
- Vinna ? Do not mess with my duel! (Brody)
- From here I'll take care of him, you'll have the right opportunity to fight him, but for now he lost the challenge for not having a collar.
- Hunf , you guys like to piss things off. (Brody)
- NOT! I CAN'T… I… Please… ( Lyunil )
Lyunil continued to resist, even with a strong sedative like this he doesn't seem to want to surrender… he really wants to maintain the trust that was given to him when the collars were handed over…
But unfortunately the challenge is over for you, Lyunil .
I took another blow to his neck and this time he actually passed out, with a sad expression on his face and tears in his eyes.
...what kind of person are you, Lyunil ?
Brody continued on his way and the patrol team came to help me get the boy and fix the damage that had happened.
***
PoV - Lyunil
- Lyunil ?... Lyunil ?...
- Master?! What happened to you?
- Wake up, kid!
- Lyunil ?!
I open my eyes slowly, feel my body totally aching.
- Ouch , ouch , ouch … what happened? What are you doing here?
I see Lahri , Kaule , Raild and Adrick watching me.
How did everyone find me?
- We heard what happened to you… ( Kaule )
- You tried too hard! Look at the state you were in! ( Lahri )
- You should have let me fight you against that brilliant man!! ( Adrick )
- You're really an idiot, I didn't expect you to take off our collars. ( Raild )
- What happened to the challenge?
- It's over! Didn't realize where you are? ( Vina )
- Lady Vinna ? What are you doing here? Ouch , ouch ...
- Don't try too hard yet, what happened to you couldn't be supported by anyone. ( Vina )
I look around and realize that we are in the royal square, the same place where the level mission announcement was made. But the sun is already setting… I must have been unconscious for a while.
- What happened to the result of the challenge?...
…
- If you want to know if you lost the collars, then yes you did, but your group got 20 points, enough to get the least benefit for guilds. So don't feel totally defeated. ( Vina )
- You… ( Raild )
- It's okay, Raild ! This is the reality.
- What are you doing here? Make fun of us for it? ( Raild )
- Don't be irritated by such stupid reasons. I just came to see Lyunil State and apologize on behalf of the organizers of this event for the problem that occurred today due to someone invading during the challenge. You were the main ones affected and this is the least I can do. Our sincere apologies! ( Vina )
She bowed in respect.
- No need to apologize like that.
- It means that… ( Raild )
- We will not change the result of the challenge… ( Vinna )
Looks like she read Raild's mind .
- But I promise that we will compensate in another way, so I ask you to be patient. ( Vina )
As good as it is, and Raild's face let out a happy sign to hear it, I still can't accept the situation.
Today's challenge only made me realize one thing...
How weak I still am and couldn't do anything!
How do I intend to get to the top like this, fulfilling everything I said?
How can I protect my friends like this?
I'm just an idiot who only knows how to say empty words...
- And I want to apologize on my behalf to you, Lyunil … ( Vinna )
- Which?...
- Know that what happened today was not your fault and who messed up your fight with Brody was me. So please don't blame yourself for what happened... That's all I needed to say, excuse me ( Vinna )
She started walking towards the castle.
- Thanks!
She stopped for a moment and was silent, as if she had remembered something.
…
- Don't thank someone who just hurt you. ( Vina )
After saying this coldly, she moved on without looking back.
Adrick and Kaule helped me to my feet. At least my sword and Sacri are still with me.
- Are you all right, master? ( Lahri )
- Yes… let's go home…
***
On the way back I asked how the rewards for the challenge were distributed.
- It was like a store. But could only buy the benefits with points obtained from collars. The lowest value in the store was 2 points from a "starter kit". ( Raild )
So everyone who didn't get at least one collar from someone else didn't get any benefit, so they were really looking at mostly people who have attitude and initiative.
- But there was an exclusive option for guild benefits, they are called "guild pass". But for the amount we had we only got the guild pass I, which is worth 20 points. ( Kaule )
- And what is this pass for?
- It was explained that it serves to give advantages in some future challenges, with exclusive rights to resources and circumstances according to the level of the pass, but since ours is the smallest one, I don't think we can expect much. ( Lahri )
- I understood…
…
- Don't get that sad face boy! We still have a lot to do and it's better than nothing! ( Adrick )
He gave me a few slaps on my back.
- Ouch , ouch …
- Oops … sorry! "^^)> ( Adrick )
- You're right, we can't be discouraged yet! We have many challenges that we still need to overcome! But I want to start by apologizing for losing our points and acting like that... my sincere apologies to all of you (- /\ -)
I leaned in apologetic, a little pained but sincerely.
- No need to apologize, boy! ( Adrick )
- As the short one said before, it wasn't your fault, besides that we also act recklessly. ( Raild )
- I think you should worry more about yourself now, you've got us all worried ( Kaule )
- Mainly Lahri , she was very worried that she wanted to take you to some hospital even after being treated! Hihihi ( Raild )
- Hh-he was in a very complicated situation, I just wanted to prevent the worst from happening!!! ( Lahri )
…
I really am so grateful to have you here with me!
- Master? ( Lahri )
- Thank you so much guys!!
I couldn't help but let out a smile, a smile of relief…
Raild and Lahri were embarrassed, Kaule and Adrick were pleased.
I think when we get home I will try to prepare some special food for all of us.
But…
I feel like I'm forgetting something important...
- You look confused, Lyunil , did something happen? ( Kaule )
- I feel like I forgot something important, but I can't think what it could be… I'll remember eventually.
.
.
.
Wait… is there someone in a hood right in front of our path?
Oh, I remembered…
- You are the bearer of the Earth's blessing, aren't you?
Suddenly, we were surrounded by several hooded people on all sides.
- I ask you to come with us!
So these are our stalkers...