Dian's New Chapter

As Dian stepped outside the hunter's guild, the weight of his recent encounter with the frog still lingered in his mind. He glanced down at the meager earnings from selling the demon hare's corpse and the other critters he had gathered during his journey. "Hmm, so a total haul of just 1 silver coin, huh?" he mused.

The realization that the demon hare, which had nearly cost him his life, was only worth 5 bronze coins - the same as the entrance fee to the elementary level Library - left a bitter taste in his mouth. He obtained the other 5 bronze coins from selling the demon fish and critters left in his inventory but Dian had hoped for a more substantial reward, Regardless; it seemed his first venture into the hunter's guild hadn't been as lucrative as he had envisioned.

Now, with both the backpack and a few leftover normal karyda fruits in his inventory. He had learned that he could request specific materials from his haul, such as the demon hare's meat or horns, but doing so would result in a reduced monetary compensation.

With no immediate objectives to pursue, Dian took a moment to observe the bustling streets as the sun sank lower in the sky. The scene before him was a vibrant tapestry of peculiar beings and extraordinary activities. Some individuals darted through the crowds with incredible speed, defying the limits of human capability. Others soared through the air or rode atop fantastical creatures and demons. It was a mesmerizing display of the diverse inhabitants and fantastical elements of this world.

As he watched, Dian contemplated his own path. Should he push himself further and venture into the forest, seeking to level up and acquire skill orbs or demon armaments? The thought crossed his mind, but he quickly dismissed it with a shake of his head.

It wasn't that he lacked the desire for growth and advancement. Dian's determination to become stronger burned within him. However, he was also acutely aware of his current limitations. The near-fatal encounter with a mere demon hare had served as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in this world. Without proper preparation and adequate equipment, he was vulnerable.

Dian recognized the worth of his own life and understood that venturing into battle without careful consideration could lead to disastrous consequences. This world held great potential, but it was equally treacherous. If he intended to take lives, he had to be prepared to face the possibility of losing his own.

As Dian strolled back towards the Clan's hall, his mind was filled with contemplation. The possibilities and challenges that lay ahead loomed large in his thoughts. One thing was clear to him: he needed to acquire strength and power, regardless of the path he chose. It was an essential requirement to confront the looming threat of the Grand Elder and to navigate the perilous encounters with the demons that roamed this unfamiliar world.

Although Dian was still uncertain about the inner workings of this realm, he held onto the belief that the answers and opportunities he sought would reveal themselves in due course. Tomorrow marked the beginning of his journey at the academy, a place that held the promise of knowledge, training, and the chance to shine.

The world around Dian seemed to transform as night descended, enveloping everything in an air of mystery. As the sun's rays gradually faded, the sky became a canvas for extraordinary sights. Gigantic and otherworldly creatures, their forms obscured by the distance, floated and moved against the backdrop of the setting sun. Dian could only catch glimpses of their imposing figures, their mere presence hinting at the vastness and danger that lurked beyond the safety of the clan.

In this moment, Dian felt the weight of his solitude. He realized that he would have to navigate this world alone, where survival was a merciless game that cared little for his existence. Memories of his past resurfaced, memories of the times when he had fought to survive in the face of adversity. Yet, this time, Dian didn't feel entirely consumed by fear.

Recollections of those who had shown him kindness and support played in his mind. Sura, who had gone to great lengths to assist and guide him, instilling within him a sense of trust and camaraderie. Nina, whose admiration and respect for him had been palpable, reminding him of the potential he held within. Even the frog, despite its seemingly indifferent demeanor, had leapt to his defense at the slightest hint of a mistake.

These memories served as a source of strength and reassurance. They reminded Dian that he was not entirely alone in this vast and treacherous world. Though the challenges ahead may be daunting, he carried with him the lessons and support of those who had touched his journey thus far. With their presence etched in his heart, Dian felt a newfound determination to face the unknown, to confront the brutal realities that awaited him beyond the clan's sheltering walls.

As night fully settled in and Dian approached the Clan's hall, his footsteps were filled with resolve. The world may be shrouded in mystery, but he was not without allies, unseen or otherwise. With a deep breath, he stepped forward, ready to embark on a new chapter and confront the trials that awaited him with a steadfast spirit… In the morning.

As Dian retired for the night, the grand elder had been secretly preparing.

In his dimly lit office, an air of anticipation hung heavy as the Grand Elder sat, poised and composed, in his high-backed chair. His eyes remained closed, seemingly lost in deep contemplation. The soft glow of a solitary candle provided the sole source of illumination, casting flickering shadows against the walls. The room was shrouded in an atmosphere of secrecy and seclusion, with the Elder having taken every precaution to ensure privacy, locking both door and window.