Awakened

Lucas pushed through the persistent gaggle of reporters, their cameras flashing and microphones thrusting toward him like weapons.

Within 24 hours of the public release from the Dungeon of Ministry Affairs, the news had spread like wildfire—the first adventurer to awaken in two years was none other than Lucas Moore himself, son of James Moore the missing treasure collector.

The weight of the public's curiosity bore down upon him, their relentless pursuit threatening to engulf his every step.

As he approached the entrance of the Crimson Blades headquarters in downtown Metropolis City, the press pack surged forward, their questions and demands echoing through the air. "Lucas! Tell us about your awakening! How does it feel to be chosen as an adventurer? Are you searching for answers about your father?"

Lucas did his best to shield his eyes from the blinding camera flashes, his heart pounding with a mix of excitement and unease. He hadn't anticipated the onslaught of attention that would accompany his awakening as an adventurer.

In a moment of desperation. Lucas summoned his resolve and raised a hand, signalling a moment of quiet. The reporters reluctantly hushed, their gazes fixed upon him, hungry for any morsel of information he would provide.

"I appreciate your enthusiasm," Lucas began, his voice projecting a touch of nervousness. "Becoming an adventurer has been a lifelong dream of mine and many young boys around the world, and I am honoured to have this opportunity. However, I have to ask for your understanding and patience as I begin this new journey. There will be time for interviews and updates, but for now, I just want to get through the door first."

The press murmured with a mix of disappointment and begrudging respect. Reluctantly, they stepped back, creating a narrow path for Lucas to pass through.

With a final nod of gratitude, Lucas made his way through the automated sliding doors, trying his best to look confident. The noise of the press faded into the background as he entered the relatively calm sanctuary of the Crimson Blades headquarters.

Within the confines of the building, an atmosphere of eager anticipation permeated the air. Adventurers, administrative personnel, and treasure collectors congregated in the lobby, their presence driven by an insatiable curiosity to catch a glimpse of the newly awakened adventurer.

As Lucas stepped into the headquarters, all eyes turned towards him, a blend of inquisitiveness and envy reflected in their gazes. The collective gaze of the crowd fixed upon him, their interest piqued by the arrival of someone who held the promise of untapped potential.

Continuing his journey further into the establishment, the cacophony of the press and onlookers gradually faded into a distant murmur, as if the clamour itself recognized the significance of Lucas's presence and chose to respectfully recede into the background.

Amidst the bustling and crowded lobby of the Crimson Blades headquarters, Lux leaned casually against a polished marble pillar, her mischievous eyes darting around the room in search of Lucas. Spotting him near the entrance, she couldn't resist the urge to make her presence known.

With a seductive smile dancing upon her lips, Lux gracefully made her way towards him, her fingers lightly brushing against his chin before coming to rest on his chest. "Good morning, superstar," she purred, her voice laced with playful charm. "Are you prepared to embark on the thrilling path of an adventurer?"

Lucas, seemingly impervious to her magnetic charisma, remained unfazed. His response was tinged with a nervous undertone as he met her gaze. "As ready as I'll ever be," he replied, his eyes briefly scanning the lobby, taking in the curious onlookers. "What is the first step for me?"

His unaffected demeanor both unsettled and intrigued Lux, though she maintained her composure. She gestured towards a corridor leading to the medical examination rooms. "The Ministry for Dungeon Affairs awaits," she explained, her voice carrying a hint of authority. "They will conduct a pre-registration physical to ensure your physical fitness for the adventures that lie ahead."

Lucas walked in sync with Lux as they made their way through the busy hallway, gliding past occupied offices where inquisitive eyes followed their every step. Lux, unlike Lucas, revelled in the unyielding gazes of the onlookers, embracing the attention bestowed upon her with evident pleasure. She delighted in the spotlight, relishing the allure of her presence.

As they entered the medical exam room, a team of Ministry officials, clad in white lab coats, awaited their arrival.

A bald doctor with a thick moustache and a smouldering cigar scrutinized Lucas, his gaze assessing every inch of his being. "Time is of the essence. Step onto the scale and remove your shirt. We don't have all day," he barked, his tone brusque and no-nonsense.

Lucas complied without protest, following the doctor's instructions. He positioned himself at the centre of the compact examination room, shirt discarded, as the doctor meticulously measured his height, and weight, and recorded various vital statistics. Lux's eyes lingered on his scrawny physique.

The examination proceeded with the doctor diligently evaluating Lucas's blood pressure, reflexes, and conducting a range of tests to assess his overall well-being.

At a certain stage, electrodes were affixed to Lucas's body, and a mask was placed over his nose and mouth. He was instructed to run on a treadmill while the doctor keenly observed the displays and diligently jotted down notes on the clipboard.

While the assessment continued, Lucas couldn't shake off the weight of scrutiny that enveloped him. The doctor emitted peculiar grunts and noises, seemingly on a quest to uncover some minute flaw that would disqualify him from pursuing the path of an adventurer. Each subsequent test seemed to bring the doctor nothing but disappointment.

Perceiving Lucas's unease, the stern-faced doctor addressed him directly. "I can see you're feeling nervous, Mr. Lucas. Rest assured, this is a standard procedure. Venturing into a dungeon is no walk in the park. I must ensure you possess the mental and physical fortitude required," he explained, his tone matter-of-fact.

Subsequently, the doctor delved into a series of probing inquiries. They sought details about Lucas's combat experience, his knowledge of magical beasts, and his mental state, including any phobias he might have. Other than a fear of snakes, Lucas was not aware of any significant phobias that would hinder his adventuring prospects.

Lucas responded to their inquiries with the remaining ounce of confidence he possessed, yet he couldn't help but notice how the doctors exchanged cryptic looks between them.

After a brief moment of anticipation, the head official revealed the outcome of Lucas's medical assessment. "Mr. Moore, while your current physical condition may not be as impressive as desired, there is still room for improvement. Nevertheless, you have met the minimum standards required," he declared.

A sigh of relief escaped Lucas's lips, alleviating some of the tension that had built up within him. However, the official's next words injected a fresh wave of unease. "However," the official continued, his tone growing more serious, "there remains one final test you must successfully navigate."

Lucas's nerves heightened, evident in the slight tremor of his voice. "And what test would that be?" he inquired, his curiosity mixed with a touch of trepidation.

Adjusting his glasses with a deliberate motion, the lead official met Lucas's gaze. "You will be required to endure a challenge—survive for a full 60 seconds against an F-rank adventurer," he disclosed, the weight of the task hanging in the air.