Chapter 12: Into the Wilderness
Chapter 12: Into the Wilderness
The decision to venture into the wilderness was not one I had made lightly. It wasn't just about gaining experience—it was about pushing my limits and stepping onto the true path of a warrior. But before that, I needed to make proper preparations.
Preparations for the Journey
The first thing I did was visit Mumbai's largest warrior marketplace, Titan's Arsenal, where countless warriors bought their supplies before heading out for hunts. With the recent surge of powerful mutated beasts, the demand for high-quality armor, weapons, and survival gear had skyrocketed, making this place a bustling hub of activity.
I first headed to the armor section. There were all kinds of protective gear available—light armor for agility-focused fighters, heavy armor for defensive warriors, and specialized armor for Psychic Masters. After discussing with the shopkeeper, I purchased a reinforced combat suit made of Grade-3 beast hide, which provided both flexibility and high durability.
Cost: 80 AstraCoins
Next, I needed a reliable weapon. My previous sword was barely sufficient for my current strength, so I picked up a high-frequency alloy sword. The blade vibrated at extreme speeds, allowing it to cut through the toughest hides with precision.
Cost: 120 AstraCoins
After that, I stocked up on compressed food packets and high-energy nutrition liquids, which were essential for long-term survival outside the city. These items would keep me well-fed and hydrated without adding too much weight to my load.
Cost: 50 AstraCoins
Lastly, I purchased a signal flare in case of emergencies and a beast-repelling spray to avoid unnecessary battles when resting.
Total Cost: 270 AstraCoins
As I prepared to leave, my father called me to his room. When I arrived, he silently handed me a black armor chest plate.
"This… is your old armor?" I asked, recognizing it immediately.
Arjun Verma nodded. "It saved my life many times. It's not as effective as the latest models, but it's still better than anything you can buy at the market."
I clenched my fists, touched by his gesture. "I'll make sure it serves me well, just like it did for you."
"Good," he said, placing a firm hand on my shoulder. "Stay sharp. The wilderness isn't like the controlled hunting zones. Out there, one mistake can cost you your life."
I nodded, fully understanding the risks.
Family and Friends' Reactions
The night before my departure, I sat with my family for dinner. My mother, Meera Verma, had been silently worried ever since I mentioned going to the wilderness, but she hadn't objected outright.
Finally, she spoke, "Veer, do you really have to go so soon? You just reached the Foundation Stage."
I sighed. "Mom, you know I have to. If I want to grow stronger, I can't just rely on training inside the city. The real battles are out there."
My father nodded in approval, but my mother still looked concerned. "At least promise me you'll be careful."
"I will," I reassured her.
Suddenly, a small figure jumped onto my lap—my three-year-old sister, Riya. She looked up at me with big, curious eyes. "Bhaiya, where are you going?"
I smiled and ruffled her hair. "Just outside the city for some training."
"Will you bring me a gift?" she asked, tilting her head.
I laughed. "Of course! I'll bring you something special."
Riya giggled happily, clapping her hands. My mother sighed but smiled slightly, seeing the bond between us.
Later that evening, I met Siya on the rooftop. She looked at me with her arms crossed. "So you're really doing this?"
"You know I am," I replied, leaning against the railing.
She sighed. "I know you're strong, Veer, but still… the wilderness is dangerous."
I smiled. "I have to take this step. Don't worry—I'll return stronger than ever."
Siya rolled her eyes. "You'd better. Or else I'll come looking for you myself."
Stepping into the Unknown
The next morning, after a final round of goodbyes, I set off toward the wilderness. The transition from the controlled borders of Mumbai to the untamed lands beyond was stark. Inside the city, everything was structured and well-maintained. Out here, nature had reclaimed its dominance—thick forests, overgrown ruins, and the ever-present feeling of being watched.
I spent the first day scouting the area, marking safe locations, and avoiding unnecessary fights.
By the second day, I started actively hunting. The first battle was against a mutated saber-tooth wolf, a Foundation Stage Level 1 beast. It lunged at me with terrifying speed, but my reaction time had improved drastically. I sidestepped and slashed with my high-frequency sword, cutting deep into its side.
The beast howled in pain and attempted a counterattack, but I finished it with a swift strike to the neck. As its body hit the ground, a familiar notification appeared.
[Lifespan Absorbed: 1 Year]
Encouraged by my success, I continued my hunt. Over the next three days, I battled and killed a total of 20 Foundation Stage Level 1 beasts, collecting 20 additional years of lifespan.
Now, my total lifespan stood at:
(225 previous) + (130 from breakthrough) + (20 new gains) = 375 years
Breaking Through
Finding a safe cave, I sat cross-legged and activated the Lifespan Devouring System.
20 years spent → Foundation Stage Level 2
30 years spent → Foundation Stage Level 3
40 years spent → Foundation Stage Level 4
50 years spent → Foundation Stage Level 5
I felt immense energy coursing through me as my body adapted to each breakthrough. The changes weren't just internal—I could feel my strength increasing exponentially.
After spending 140 years, my remaining lifespan stood at 375 - 140 = 235 years.
Clenching my fists, I smiled.
Now, at Foundation Stage Level 5, I was ready for even greater challenges.
(End of Chapter)
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225 years (before breakthrough)
+130 years (after breakthrough)
+20 years (from hunting)
Total: 375 years before spending lifespan for breakthroughs
After spending 140 years → 235 years remaining
This keeps everything accurate while maintaining the flow of the chapter. Let me know if liked the Chapter.....
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