Chapter 4: Clarity Amid Ambiguity

"I'm back, and it's just my luck that even the novice tutorial chips away at my lifespan," Gu Shanhai muttered, his expression sour. Losing two days of life due to his status as a temporary worker was an unexpected expense.

The initial dungeon and novice tutorial were part of the projected world of "First Era," akin to welfare benefits provided by the system. While the initial dungeon deducted two days of life, completing tasks in higher-level areas could eventually waive such fees.

For Gu Shanhai, a temporary worker, this arrangement wasn't overly burdensome. With three to five worlds under his belt, lifespan concerns would dissipate. Plus, task rewards typically outweighed the cost.

"The initial dungeon shaves off two days, the mid-level area lasts two months, and the high-level world spans two years," he reflected, eyeing the options presented on the wall. Currently, only the primary copy was accessible, with the others inactive.

The initial copy confined players to specific locations, limiting their exploration. Conversely, the mid-level area expanded upon the primary copy's setting, offering extended gameplay ranging from hours to months. The high-level world afforded players unparalleled freedom, sans time constraints.

Accessing the mid-level area required invitation letters and evaluation points, obtainable from settlement treasure chests. While Gu Shanhai's F-grade evaluation limited his options, completing tasks in the initial dungeon promised settlement points—a gateway to higher-tier experiences.

For every 10 settlement points earned, Gu Shanhai could secure an invitation letter, allowing entry into the mid-level area. This mutually beneficial arrangement rewarded both players and invitation letter holders.

Settlement points were hard-earned, with A-level evaluations garnering a single point and higher-tier evaluations reaping more substantial rewards. Gu Shanhai's past mastery ensured consistent success, positioning him favorably in the system.

Assessing his gains, Gu Shanhai lamented the lack of furnishings in the empty room, finding solace only in the potted plant and the unnamed book.

"Fortunately, my rebirth endowed me with language and comprehension skills," he mused, acknowledging his innate abilities. Unlike official players with access to translations, Gu Shanhai relied on his own faculties to decipher the book's contents.

His rebirth bestowed upon him not only linguistic prowess but also a rudimentary understanding of martial arts and Taoism, essential for his survival and development.

With a blend of true spirit and acquired knowledge, Gu Shanhai navigated the complexities of "First Era," leveraging his skills to adapt and thrive in a world teeming with possibilities.

(End of Chapter)