More Ruthless

The day dawned over the Velarion Realm like a freshly painted canvas, the colors spilling across the sky in enchanting hues. But for Ethan Carter, it was more than just a new day; it symbolized an opportunity to further solidify his place atop the leaderboard. With the revelation of his current standing fueling his resolve, he needed more than just temporary glory—he needed permanence in power.

Ethan trotted away from the military base, the jubilant voices of soldiers fading in the background. He had given them a glimpse of his potential, but he recognized what lay ahead—this world was unforgiving, and new challengers would soon emerge to stake their claim. To remain at the forefront, gaining levels and powerful skills was paramount.

As he ventured through the lush forest, he felt the familiar pulse of energy crackling within him, the awareness that something remarkable was brewing in the undercurrents of the realm.

**[New Skill Unlock: XP Multiplier - Passive Ability Unlocked: +600% Experience Gain from Defeating Enemies!]**

A surge of power rushed through him, and he felt the thrill vibrate across his entire being. The skill was permanent—a boon bestowed by the system that would amplify every creature he defeated, every challenge he faced.

**[New Rewards Unlocked Due to Skill: ]**

- **10 Talent Points** to allocate between skills.

- **Additional Access to Hidden Quests** across the Velarion Realm.

- **Enhanced Mana Capacity: +50 Mana**.

Ethan's heart raced in exhilaration. The elevated experience multiplier would allow him to evolve much faster than his contemporaries, and the rewards only empowered his ambitions for growth. With newfound determination, he adjusted his path towards the darker corners of the forest, where whispers of monstrous creatures lingered among the trees.

The thrill of the hunt surged within him, igniting an adventurous spirit he hadn't felt before. This realm teemed with threats and opportunities—perfect for honing his skills and capturing a solid place within the ranks.

He navigated deeper into the thickets, resolve guiding his actions, the tendrils of fear replaced by anticipation. Within moments, he stumbled upon an area where the air felt thick—with the scent of danger, anger, and a hint of rot from the carcasses sprawled across the leaf-strewn ground.

**[Enemy Detected: "Gloom Stalker" - Level 2]**

**[Estimated Threat Level: Moderate]**

**[Recommended Action: Engage.]**

The creature emerged from the shadows—its body sleek, darkened fur gleaming ominously against the encroaching shadows, piercing red eyes locking onto Ethan as it prowled menacingly. He could sense the chill of its predatory instincts, and his instincts fired up in response.

This was the moment he needed to seize.

With the Gloom Stalker closing in, Ethan summoned the flames that had already become second nature to him.

**[Skill Activated: Fireball - Cost: 20 Mana]**

He released the burning orb, sending it hurtling toward the creature. It hit its target squarely in the side, an explosion of light and heat erupting as the Gloom Stalker let out a fierce snarl of pain.

**[XP Gained: 100]**

**[100% Damage Bonus Activated: XP Multiplier in effect!]**

**[Total XP Gained: 600!]**

Without waiting for the creature to recover, Ethan followed up with his **Chain Lightning** ability, allowing the bright arcs of electricity to jump between the Gloom Stalker and nearby trees, crackling with energy.

**[Skill Activated: Chain Lightning - Cost: 30 Mana]**

**[XP Gained: 200]**

**[200% Damage Bonus Activated: XP Multiplier in effect!]**

**[Total XP Gained: 1200!]**

The Gloom Stalker convulsed, its body writhing in the aftermath of both spells. The fusion of fire and electricity left it disoriented and vulnerable. Using the moment to his advantage, Ethan charged forward, adrenaline surging.

With a swift maneuver, he engaged his **Frenzied Assault** skill, feeling a surge of enhanced strength coursing through him as he connected with a powerful strike to the creature's form.

**[Skill Activated: Frenzied Assault - Cost: 15 Mana]**

**[XP Gained: 400]**

**[400% Damage Bonus Activated: XP Multiplier in effect!]**

**[Total XP Gained: 2400!]**

With a final, desperate growl, the Gloom Stalker fell to the forest floor, limp and lifeless. Ethan stood over it, chest heaving with the exertion, feeling the exhilaration of victory pulse through him. He had done it; he had claimed another notch in his ascent toward being a true powerhouse in the Velarion Realm.

**[Enemy Defeated: Gloom Stalker - Experience Gained: 2400!]**

**[You have leveled up to Level 4!]**

**[New Skills Unlocked:]**

- **Gloom Hunter**: Increased awareness and resistance against Gloom-type monsters.

- **Skill Points: 5 Talent Points available to allocate.**

Ethan's eyes brightened, and a smug grin crept across his face. He was well on his way not only to climb the leaderboard but also to craft a reputation that would echo throughout the realm.

Every monster he took down meant more experience, more skills, more strength. With each victory, he could feel the distance between him and the darkness that threatened the Velarion Realm beginning to close.

With newfound energy surging in him, Ethan turned towards the deeper shadows of the forest, scouting for his next target. The thrill of hunting surged through him, each pulse of danger felt more like a challenge than a threat.

He had discovered the path of the hunter, the fearless adventurer ready to carve his legacy in the world of the Velarion Realm. The leaderboard would not just remember him; it would reflect his relentless rise, his pursuit of power, and his resolve to unearth all that this world had to offer.

He felt unstoppable, and he was just getting started.