Chapter 2

Before John could continue his observation, a sudden bell rang out. The familiar hologram reappeared, shimmering into view with a sense of urgency.

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(2 Pending Notifications!)

1. Guide - [Unopened]

2. Gift - [Unopened]

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A dilemma occurred for John. How could he interact with the system? The suddenness of everything left him disoriented, and he couldn't even remember how to operate it.

In a moment of desperation, John raised his hand and attempted to touch the hologram, but to no avail. His hand passed through the shimmering figure as if it were merely an illusion, leaving him feeling more frustrated.

Then, a flicker of realization crossed his mind. When the hologram had first given him the choice to accept this second chance, he hadn't physically interacted with it. Instead, he had simply thought about his acceptance, and the hologram had responded.

With renewed determination, John focused his thoughts on the notifications. He envisioned selecting the first notification, willing the hologram to respond to his intentions. "Guide," he thought firmly, hoping that this time, the connection would work. As he concentrated, he felt a warmth radiate from the hologram, and he sensed a shift in the air around him.

Then, like opening an application on a computer, the first notification shimmered and expanded into view.

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GUIDE:

Welcome, User! Here are the basics of the Military System you have acquired:

1. Summoning Units: You can summon soldiers, equipment, and other resources by channeling your thoughts. Each summon requires a certain amount of pointd, which can be replenished through successful missions and defeating foes.

2. Managing Resources: Keep track of your available energy and summoned units. Monitor their health and morale, as these factors will influence their performance in battles.

3. Strategic Deployment: Think carefully about how to deploy your units. Different situations will require different strategies. Use terrain and tactics to your advantage in combat scenarios.

4. Upgrades and Enhancements: As you progress, you can earn points to upgrade your units and equipment. Focus on improving your strengths and addressing weaknesses to maximize your effectiveness.

5. Mission Objectives: Complete various missions to gain rewards, earn energy, and unlock new abilities. Pay attention to the goals set for each mission, as they will guide your actions.

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As the guide materialized, John felt a sense of clarity wash over him. The information provided a foundation upon which he could build his strategy. He realized that understanding how to wield this power was crucial to his success in saving this world.

John had played plenty of simulation and real-time strategy games in his life, such as Command and Conquer and Halo Wars. The knowledge from those experiences flooded back to him, creating a sense of familiarity in this new and strange reality.

He remembered the thrill of managing resources, devising tactics, and the importance of strategic planning in order to succeed against overwhelming odds.

With the guide fresh in his mind, he felt a surge of confidence. He could apply those skills here, in this new reality, where every decision could impact not just his fate, but the fate of an entire world.

Eager to see what the second notification held, he concentrated on the Gift, hoping for something that could bolster his abilities or provide a crucial edge as he began his mission.

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GIFT:

As a token of appreciation, you have been given the following:

1. One US Infantry Rifle Squad

2. 1000 Points

Do you want to claim?

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John grinned as he read the Gift Notification. His heart raced at the prospect of having a rifle squad at his disposal, a valuable asset in this unknown world. The points also intrigued him—an opportunity to enhance his abilities or upgrade his resources.

After a brief moment of contemplation, John thought, 'Yes, I want to claim it.'

The decision felt natural, and he could already envision how he might deploy the squad in the upcoming challenges.

As he confirmed his choice, he felt a surge of energy course through him, signifying the successful acquisition of the gift.

Light suddenly enveloped John, brilliant and blinding, filling the forest with a radiant glow. For a moment, he was surrounded by a warm luminescence that pulsed with energy. Then, as quickly as it had appeared, the light dimmed, revealing the US Infantry Rifle Squad that had been gifted to him.

The squad stood ready and disciplined, clad in tactical gear with their weapons at the ready. Their presence was reassuring, a tangible reminder that he was not alone in this fight. Each soldier exuded confidence and determination, their eyes scanning the environment as if they were already assessing potential threats.

John took a moment to absorb the scene. This was no longer just an abstract task; he had tangible allies by his side. With the squad at his command, he felt a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility.

The squad would provide him with the manpower needed to tackle whatever obstacles lay ahead. Now, with a solid foundation of support and resources, John felt ready to complete his task.

He could already envision the strategies he would employ as he prepared to confront the challenges of this world. The rifle squad's presence was more than just a tactical advantage; it was a reminder that he had allies who shared his goal of saving this realm from destruction.

Taking a deep breath, John felt a sense of clarity and determination wash over him. The weight of his mission had transformed from a burden into a call to action. He had been given a second chance, and he intended to make the most of it.

"Alright, team," he said, his voice steady and filled with resolve. "We need to move out. Our first priority is to scout the area for any signs of danger or potential allies. Once we've gathered intel, we will set up camp and secure our position."

The squad responded with sharp nods, a clear indication of their readiness. John felt a wave of reassurance wash over him as he observed their determination.

He continued, "Stay vigilant and maintain communication. We don't know what we might encounter out here. If you see anything suspicious, report back immediately."

He gestured toward the dense underbrush ahead. "Let's split into two teams. Alpha squad will head east, and Bravo squad will take the western path. We'll meet back here in an hour. Move quietly and stick to the shadows."

With a quick check of their gear, the squads fanned out, each member taking on their assigned role. As John watched them disappear into the trees, he felt a surge of confidence.

This was just the beginning of their mission, and he was determined to lead them through whatever challenges awaited them in this unfamiliar world.

He took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for the unknown. In this moment, he was not just a man given a second chance; he was a commander leading his squad into the fray, ready to forge a path toward salvation.