Aryan sat under a large tree, catching his breath. The battle with the Shadow Wolf was short, but it taught him a very important lesson: he needed more speed. In this world, the slow are always the first to die.
"System, open my status window," Aryan commanded.
A glowing screen appeared:
[User Status]
Name: Aryan
Level: 1 (Exp: 20/100)
Strength: 5
Agility: 4
Stamina: 6
Available Soul Essence: 10
"I have 10 Soul Essence now," Aryan thought. "The system says I can use these to upgrade my own body, not just items."
He decided to focus on his speed. "System, spend 10 Soul Essence to upgrade my Agility."
Suddenly, a warm heat flowed through his legs. It felt like his muscles were being rebuilt. The feeling was slightly painful but also very refreshing.
[System Notification]
Enhancement Successful!
Agility: 4 -> 9
Bonus Skill Unlocked: [Quick Step (Level 1)]
Skill Effect: Increases movement speed by 20% for 10 seconds.
Aryan stood up and took a step. He felt light, almost like he was walking on air. He tried a small jump, and he went much higher than usual.
"This is amazing!" he laughed. "With this speed, those monsters won't be able to touch me."
But then, the system screen started flickering in red.
[Warning!]
New Quest Triggered: The Hunter and the Hunted.
Goal: Survive for 30 minutes.
Description: The smell of the Shadow Wolf's blood has attracted a pack.
Reward: Random Upgrade Stone.
Aryan's smile disappeared. From the bushes around him, he heard multiple growls. One wolf was easy, but a whole pack? That was a different story.
He gripped his Refined Steel Blade. The blade hummed as if it was excited for the next fight.
"Fine," Aryan said, his eyes glowing with determination. "Let's see if this [Quick Step] skill actually works."