Through the Woods

[You have slain (Adult Mountain Lion - Level 5) – You have gained bonus experience points for killing a creature above your level.]

[Congratulations! Your class (warrior) has reached level 1. All stat point has been allocated + 1 free point]

As Adam gazes at the lifeless body of the lion sprawled on the ground, a surge of energy rushes through his veins, leaving him feeling invigorated and strangely empowered. A renewed strength courses through his limbs as if the fight infuses him with newfound vitality. In this electrifying moment, he notices the missed system messages, their significance finally sinking in.

"That was one of the most satisfying fights I have had in a long time."

A surge of exhilaration courses through Adam's veins. Having emerged victorious from his first life-or-death battle unscathed, an unexpected sensation grips him—it's a craving, a hunger for more. Far from recoiling in fear or disgust, his body yearns for the adrenaline-pumping thrill of combat and the intoxicating rush of growth. In this curious twist, he discovers an insatiable drive to push his limits, to become stronger.

He approaches the body of the lion, being sure that it is dead. The mountain lion is definitely much bigger than what he has seen before the system. It is probably twice as big as an average pre-system mountain lion.

"Such a shame I can't skin this beast right now. I bet the hide could make a nice shirt or something. Never mind." As he walks past the lion, Adam muses and continues his journey through the wood.

As Adam trudges through the thick foliage of the woods, his mind becomes a whirlwind of thoughts about the day's extraordinary events and the newfound system. A mix of curiosity and concern fills his inner dialogue.

"So, let me get this straight," Adam contemplates aloud. "If everyone can level up by defeating enemies, does that mean we'll have people going around challenging each other to duels for experience points? It's like a twisted version of a street fight, with XP as the prize. Talk about a whole new level of 'fight club'!"

The implications of this newfound power don't escape Adam's imagination. The notion of evolving animals also crosses his mind, particularly that mountain lion he encountered earlier. "I mean, seriously, that mountain lion was no ordinary feline. It was like the Hulk of mountain lions! I wonder if it had a secret stash of protein shakes hidden somewhere."

A lighthearted chuckle escapes Adam's lips as he envisions his father's infamous paranoia about a zombie apocalypse. "Well, Dad's endless obsession with the undead might actually come in handy now. I wouldn't be surprised if he's built a secret bunker beneath the house, fully stocked with canned food and 'zombie survival guide' manuals. Hey, at least I'll have a place to crash if things really go downhill."

With a newfound sense of humor, Adam continues his trek through the woods, hoping his loved ones are safe and eagerly anticipating finding them. Little does he know that the real-life game has only just begun.

After a few hours of walking, Adam stumbles upon a hidden clearing. An ancient stone structure has emerged from the undergrowth within this serene space, partially covered in moss and ivy. It emanates a faint, mesmerizing glow that beckons him closer.

Adam cautiously approaches the structure and looks around to see if there are any hidden predators. The structure has an old look, and he can see hieroglyphic-like runes written all around the frame with an image of a big tree at the center of the structure.

"Wow, I am more than certain this is new. I mean, I have never been to this area, but I am sure I would have heard something about this."

Adam slowly approaches the structure and extends his right arm to feel the runes. However, he is surprised by the sudden system message.

[Congratulations! You have discovered the dungeon "The Hidden Grove" – Recommended level (10)]

[Achievement unlocked – Being the first person to discover a dungeon. Reward: A 48-hour period in which no one else except you or your party cannot enter the dungeon]

[Congratulations – You have gained the Title (Trailblazer)]

[Trailblazer (Title – Unique)

A Title earned by the first person on planet Earth who discovered a new dungeon. +50% luck in discovering new dungeons. +10% chance for Boss monsters to drop extra rewards.]

[Do you want to enter the "The Hidden Grove" dungeon?]

"So, now we've got dungeons too? Great, just what I needed! I guess I'll be the brave hero trekking up a mountain to slay dragons and save villagers, right? I might as well grab my wizard's robe and staff while at it. This is turning into a real-life Dungeons & Dragons campaign. Who needs a 9-to-5 job when you can live out your fantasy world dreams? Maybe I'll even find a +5 sword of sarcasm along the way. Time to level up and embrace this geeky adventure!"

"Also, how come nobody else has found a dungeon if they exist? It's been over two hours. Also, what do I do with a title? There is no reward for getting one." Adam continues to complain about his new reality mentally. However, he also thinks this would be an excellent opportunity to level up since he has already encountered a beast that almost sent him to the afterlife. He mentally confirms the last system message to enter the dungeon.

With a resolute nod, Adam confirms his decision, and in an instant, he is engulfed in a blinding flash of light. As the radiance subsides, he finds himself standing in a picturesque chamber within the depths of "The Hidden Grove." The sight that unfolds before him is nothing short of breathtaking.

The chamber is a lush oasis of nature's bounty, adorned with an array of vibrant flora and colorful flowers. Stone pillars, weathered by time and embraced by a soft coat of moss, stand tall, lending an ancient touch to the surroundings. Pale rays of sunlight pierce through small gaps in the ceiling, casting a warm and comforting glow upon the scene.

In the heart of the chamber, a sparkling fountain takes center stage. Its crystal-clear waters trickle and gurgle, creating a soothing symphony that permeates the air. The atmosphere exudes serene tranquility, inviting Adam to pause and take in the beauty of his surroundings.

Adam's gaze is drawn to the inviting fountain, its refreshing allure beckoning him closer.