The silence of the forest was broken by the leader of the assassins' mocking laughter. "Still breathing? It doesn't matter! It's easier to bury a man who's already standing by his grave." He raised his jagged blade, lunging toward Arlan with lethal intent.
But Arlan stood still. In his mind, a cold, mechanical voice resonated:
[Warning: Fatal attack detected!]
[Activating Passive Skill: Instant Reflexes!]
Suddenly, everything around Arlan seemed to slow down. As the blade drew inches from his neck, he shifted his body with impossible grace. The assassin's eyes widened in shock—he couldn't believe this "weak boy" had just dodged his killing blow.
"Your time is up," Arlan said, his voice cold and hollow, sounding like a demon rising from the abyss.
[Quest Update: Defeat the Assassins (0/3)]
[Temporary Stat Boost: Strength +10, Agility +15]
Arlan felt a surge of fire coursing through his veins. Before the leader could recover, Arlan stepped forward and buried his fist deep into the man's chest.
CRACK!
The sound of shattering ribs echoed through the trees. The assassin was sent flying, crashing against a thick oak tree before coughing up a mouthful of blood.
The remaining two assassins stepped back, their faces pale with terror. "What... what is he? A monster?" one of them stammered, his sword shaking.
Arlan extended his hand. A dark purple aura began to swirl around his palm.
[Skill Unlocked: Soul Crush (Rank: F)]
[Requirement: Touch the enemy's chest.]
In a blur of motion, Arlan appeared in front of them. They didn't even have time to swing their weapons. Within seconds, three lifeless bodies lay on the forest floor. Arlan's body was drenched in sweat, but his eyes burned with a newfound fire of vengeance.
[Quest Completed!]
[Rewards: 100 Exp, Low-Grade Healing Potion, and 'Shadow Dagger' (Rank: E)]
[Level Up! Current Level: 2]
A cloud of black smoke materialized in front of him, revealing a sleek, dark dagger. It was his first weapon. As soon as he gripped the hilt, a strange, chilling power flowed into him.
"System..." Arlan smirked. "The game has just begun. Everyone who wanted me dead... will pay the price, one by one."