Chapter 8
Chapter 8: Proving Grounds
Shadowblade as he was known in Eternal Horizon, stood before the Battle Instructor Marak, ready for his first challenge. Marak's stern gaze bore into him, evaluating his worth.
"Your first task," Marak began, "is to hunt down Steer, an elite named monster. Steer is a giant beetle that can use magic to attack its enemies. It is often seen in the company of other Giant Beetles. This will test your abilities and show whether you are truly worthy of the elder's recommendation."
Shadowblade nodded, gripping his Damascus Blade tightly in his right hand and his basic blade in his left. He knew this would be a tough battle, but he felt a surge of determination. He had faced challenges before and emerged victorious; this would be no different.
Setting out from Pelis Outpost, Shadowblade made his way to the Beetle Nest, a treacherous area swarming with giant beetles. The air buzzed with the sound of their wings, and the ground was littered with their discarded shells.
His first encounter came quickly. A pair of Giant Beetles scuttled towards him, their mandibles clicking menacingly.
Shadowblade leapt into action, his blades flashing in the sunlight. His Damascus Blade sliced through the first beetle's carapace with ease, while his basic blade held its own against the second beetle.
-15 HP
+10 Experience
He continued to fight his way through the swarm, gaining valuable experience with each victory. The beetles were relentless, but Shadowblade's skill and determination carried him forward.
-18 HP
+10 Experience
After a grueling series of battles, Shadowblade finally came face to face with Steer. The named elite monster was even more intimidating in person, its massive body covered in thick, chitinous armor, and its mandibles glowing with magical energy.
**Steer (Named Elite Monster)**
- Level: 8
- HP: 5000
- Attack: 150
- Defense: 100
- Skills: Magic Missile, Harden Shell, Summon Beetles
Shadowblade knew this would be a true test of his abilities. He tightened his grip on his blades, his heart pounding in his chest. He had to approach this battle strategically if he hoped to succeed.
Steer unleashed a barrage of Magic Missiles, forcing Shadowblade to dodge and weave to avoid the deadly projectiles. His Damascus Blade flashed as he counterattacked, the enchanted weapon slicing through Steer's defenses and causing significant damage.
-20 HP (Critical)
HP: -3/50
+10 Experience
Despite the damage he inflicted, Steer proved to be a formidable opponent. The giant beetle summoned additional minions to aid in the fight, and its Harden Shell ability made it even more difficult to penetrate its defenses.
Shadowblade used his Double Slash and Triple Slash abilities, aiming for Steer's weak points and causing the monster to bleed. The bleeding effect dealt damage over time, slowly wearing down Steer's health.
The battle raged on, each strike and counterstrike pushing Shadowblade to his limits. His experience fighting named monsters proved invaluable, allowing him to anticipate Steer's moves and exploit its weaknesses.
Finally, with one last powerful slash from his Damascus Blade, Shadowblade defeated Steer. The giant beetle collapsed to the ground, its body disintegrating into a shower of loot and experience points.
Ding!
You have defeated Steer!
+500 Experience
+50 Gold
Loot: Beetle Carapace
Shadowblade took a moment to catch his breath, feeling a rush of satisfaction and relief. He had proven his worth to Marak and earned valuable rewards in the process.
Returning to Pelis Outpost, he approached the Battle Instructor with the proof of his victory. Marak raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed.
"You have done well, Shadowblade," Marak said. "You have proven your potential. Here is your reward."
New Skill Book: Death Cross
Death Cross: A powerful dual-wield attack.
- Damage: 250% of weapon attack
- Effect: Causes severe bleeding, dealing 50 damage per second for 10 seconds.**
Shadowblade accepted the skill book, feeling a surge of excitement. He had earned a powerful new ability and gained Marak's approval.
Marak continued, "I see great potential in you, Shadowblade. Your next task will be even more challenging, but it will also unlock a higher tier for your class."
Ding!
A quest has been generated.
Quest: Battle Style Scorching One
Objective: Prove your mastery of the blade by defeating three powerful enemies: Flame Elemental, Red Snake, and Mummy Blader.
Rewards: 500 Experience, 100 Gold, Skill Book: Fire Blade, Class Upgrade to Force Blader.
Shadowblade's eyes widened at the prospect of a class upgrade. A hidden class, Force Blader, would give him access to unique abilities and enhance his combat prowess significantly.
Marak nodded. "The Scorching One quest will test your limits. It is not for the faint-hearted, but I believe you have the strength and determination to succeed. Complete this quest, and you will become a Force Blader, a warrior of unparalleled skill."
Shadowblade accepted the quest with a sense of purpose. He had come a long way since he first started playing Eternal Horizon, and he was determined to continue his journey to greatness.
As he left Marak's training ground, Shadowblade felt a renewed sense of confidence. He had proven himself in battle and earned the respect of a seasoned warrior. Now, it was time to take on even greater challenges and unlock his full potential.
With the Death Cross skill added to his arsenal, Shadowblade was ready to face whatever came next. He knew the road ahead would be difficult, but he was prepared to fight with everything he had.
The Scorching One quest awaited, and with it, the promise of a new class and even greater power. Shadowblade set his sights on his next destination, his heart filled with determination and a burning desire to prove himself once again.
In the back of his mind, he thought of his mother, knowing that she would be proud of how far he had come. He had found his path and was ready to forge ahead, no matter the challenges that lay ahead.