After logging in the next day, Qin Sheng found Lia waiting near his stall. Her new bow gleamed, and her expression was filled with determination.
"Ready?" she asked, eyes bright.
Qin Sheng nodded, gesturing toward the forest. "We'll start by farming some mid-tier monsters. Should help you level up fast."
They ventured deep into the forest, with Qin Sheng leading the way. Lia struggled initially but adapted quickly with Qin Sheng's guidance. Her arrows flew straighter, landing critical hits on weaker monsters.
Suddenly, a System Announcement echoed:
[System Notification: A Limited-Time Event has begun! Hidden Treasure Chests have spawned across Novice Zones. Find them before time runs out!]
Lia gasped, "We should find one! The rewards could be amazing."
Qin Sheng hesitated but then agreed. "Fine, but stay close."
Together, they scoured the area. After a tense search, they found a shimmering chest guarded by a group of aggressive monsters. With Lia covering him from afar, Qin Sheng fought through the horde.
[Treasure Chest Unlocked: Reward – 100 Gold, Rare Weapon Shard, and Minor Experience Boost Token]
They split the rewards, Lia taking the Experience Boost while Qin Sheng pocketed the Weapon Shard.
As they rested under a large tree, Lia looked over at him. "Thanks for today. I've learned a lot."
Qin Sheng gave a rare smile. "You're improving fast. You'll survive this chaos yet."
Lia blushed slightly before logging out, leaving Qin Sheng alone with his thoughts. Looking at his minions, Gorath and Velnar, he felt the weight of responsibility but also the thrill of power.
Tomorrow would bring even greater challenges.