Ratling

Unlike traditional games, Guardians of Valoria didn't hold players' hands. They were thrown into an unknown world without any clear objectives, forcing them to explore and discover the mechanics for themselves.

Like many other players in the village, Kaelen felt lost when he first arrived in the game. There was no tutorial quest or anything to guide him, so he had to explore the area on his own.

As Kaelen arrived at the border of the town, he noticed an old man gazing into the forest. The man had a weathered face and long white hair, and he carried a staff. His gaze was wise and powerful, as if he held ancient knowledge.

"Excuse me, sir," Kaelen said. "I couldn't help but wonder what's on your mind. If you have any problems, I can try to help you."

Upon hearing someone talk to him, the old man turned his head and took a good look at the newcomer. "Ah, welcome, young adventurer! I have a task that requires your help, if you're willing."

"Sure, what do you need help with?"

"My family has been the keepers of a powerful artifact for generations," the old man said with pride. He sighed and continued, "But it has been stolen by goblins who reside in a nearby cave. I am too old to retrieve it myself, and the artifact is too valuable to be left in the hands of those foul creatures."

"What kind of artifact is it?" Kaelen asked.

The old man hesitated before answering, "It is a powerful talisman that has the ability to enhance one's magical abilities. It has been passed down in my family for generations, and it is a symbol of our strength and resilience."

Forget about the quest. If he could get his hands on such a powerful artifact, won't he already become one of the most powerful player in the entire game?

"I'll do my best to retrieve it for you. Where can I find the cave?" Kaelen maintained a kind and natural expression on his face as he concealed his intention. After many years of practice, it has become like a second nature for him. Manipulating people was like playing a game of cards.

It's easier to win if you hold a kind face, but the true intention lies in the cards you hold, not the face you show.

"The cave is located to the north, just beyond the forest," the old man pointed in the direction of the cave before warning Kaelen. "Beware of the goblins, they are fierce and cunning creatures. But I have faith that you will be able to retrieve the artifact and bring it back to me."

"I'll bring it back as soon as I can."

"Excellent! I shall await your return. And remember, the artifact must not fall into the wrong hands. Good luck, young adventurer!"

[ You have received a new quest: The Lost Artifact

Quest Description: The elder has lost a precious family heirloom, a powerful artifact that has been passed down for generations. The artifact was stolen by goblins who reside in a nearby cave. The elder asks the player to retrieve the artifact and return it to him. ]

As Kaelen made his way towards the cave entrance, the forest enveloped him.

Towering trees created a canopy of light and shadow, and the sound of rustling leaves and bird calls filled the air. The scent of pine mingled with the musty aroma of damp earth. He had to watch his step on the uneven ground to avoid tripping over exposed roots and stones.

While he walked, Kaelen took the opportunity to glance at his skill panel. "It's empty... I don't have any skills at the moment." To make matters worse, he had no idea how to obtain them.

Usually, there would be a skill tree showing the player which competencies could be unlocked at specific levels. However, there was nothing like that in Guardians of Valoria.

'Right now, those streamers should be as puzzled as I am,' he thought. He couldn't help but imagine the confused faces of the game streamers and their viewers, with nobody knowing how to play the game.

'I guess I'll have to level up, and progress furthur into the game to see what happens...'

Since he had a unique class, Kaelen was eager to find out what unique skills he would have.

'But for now, I'll make do with my basic sword.' Kaelen cast his eyes towards the sword at his side and realized that he had become a true adventurer in another world. It was a dream come true, even if for the moment, he would have to make do with his basic weapon.

*thud, thud, thud*

In the distance, a girl was fleeing from a Ratling, a rat-like monster with sharp teeth and greasy fur. The creature was as big as a human and moved on all fours with remarkable speed.

Kaelen spotted the Ratling chasing the girl and knew he had to act quickly. Without a second thought, he unsheathed his sword and sprinted towards them.

As the girl noticed Kaelen, she changed direction and ran towards him. Kaelen braced himself, ready to confront the oncoming Ratling.

The monster charged towards them, snapping its jaws. Kaelen stood his ground and prepared to strike, but his inexperience and inadequate gear were no match for the Ratling's resilient hide.

"Crap!" Kaelen muttered as his sword bounced off the monster's skin.

The Ratling retaliated by hurling itself at Kaelen, throwing him to the ground and knocking the sword out of his hand. He struggled to catch his breath as he clambered to his feet, knowing he had to fight on to survive. "This game is way too realistic! That hurts!" he groaned.

Just then, the girl realized that Kaelen was outmatched and came to his aid, hitting the Ratling's body with her wooden staff while it was distracted.

Kaelen was stunned. "You're a mage! Why aren't you using magic? Staff weapons in MMORPGs hardly inflict any physical damage!"

Then, it dawned on him. 'Wait... this is too exaggerated! Don't tell me she's in the same predicament as me, with no skills...'

Kaelen felt like lodging a complaint with the game developers. 'For God's sake, she's just a mage! Give her at least one weak spell or something. How is she supposed to play the game by merely bashing monsters with a wooden staff?'