They had gotten a lot of supplies, gold and weaponry by looting the town. They brought it back to their outpost before the night would fall and monsters would be omnipresent again. Although Butch and Cara were probably strong enough to kill them, it would still be quite a hassle.

As they arrived, they all headed towards their cabins to try and get some night rest. Not many of them were going to close an eye tonight though. 

Although they had gotten a lot of loot, the atmosphere was more than grim in the camp. The images they saw today had scarred them for life. This was something they'd have nightmares of for years to come.

For now, Steve had to share a cabin with another agent. He would get his own treehouse in a couple of days though.

"Rough day eh..." he said, "name's Tom, I arrived here 2 weeks ago."

"Steve. Guess I really got lucky joining yesterday..." Steve answered.

"Just try and get some night rest, that arm wound looks nasty! Better let it rest for a little bit," he said.

"Right... night Tom."

"Goodnight, Steve," he said.

---

The next morning, Steve got up and tried to get something to eat. He had gotten quite hungry. After all, he hadn't eaten last night. He didn't really have an appetite after seeing those scenes yesterday.

Most of the camp's infrastructure was on the ground level. They could safely stay there during the day and was way easier to build than something like a city in the trees.

"Ah, Steve! You arrived! Try to recuperate that arm quickly, so that you can join us for training next week!" Olivia said.

"Not next week, I'll join you right now," Steve said.

"Don't! You need to let your wounds heal properly!" she said in a serious way.

"It's just one arm. I can still use the other one, or use my legs to run around... I'm in very bad shape, I want to train already." he said with a determined face. 

He meant it. He really wanted to grow stronger, not only to be able to survive on his own... but also to protect others.

Olivia was amazed by his resolution. It looked like he was serious about training. She was glad they didn't get a lazy Earthling.

"Fine, but keep it minimal. Only train for 3 hours at max, don't overexert yourself, " she said before whispering something in his ear, "Use the other hours to try and discover your Earthling ability."

Steve obviously already knew what his ability was, he had gotten a system that gave him experience when killing monsters. He still thought it was a wise idea to hide that for now though, it was safer if no one knew. He could just say his ability was to get strong quickly by training. After all, if he spent his attribute points, he would really get stronger.

"You're right," he said with a stern expression, "I should try and find my ability."

'After all, I still need to discover how my system works exactly. When I crafted a sharp stick earlier, it showed me the stats. When I made a dagger, it didn't. I still need to find the limitations. I should try crafting stuff first,' he thought, unaware that a mage had helped him merge the dagger.

"I do have another question though, how did you guys not get discovered by other people living in Acrine? You're in the middle of a forest, someone was bound to find this someday, no?" he asked.

"You're living in a world of magic now silly, ever heard of formations? There are formations that cause things to turn invisible when you're outside of it. The formation's master can choose who sees and who doesn't see the camp. It'd take a real expert to find us! " she told him.

'Oh right, like those two boys, Dave & Frank, that I had met earlier. They had a formation their master had given them too. I wonder what happened to those guys...' he thought as he started feeling sad again.

"Ofcourse it's magic..." he said while feeling stupid for asking.

After having their breakfast, they went to train. Butch led a team of agents, helping them train with weapons. He also gave them exercises like a fitness coaches would have done back on Earth.

Steve would be running for 2 hours a day right now, with some pauses in between. After all, he didn't have the constitution to run 2 hours straight at the moment.

The other hour, he would spend practicing his weapon skills. He decided to use a sword for now.

After his first day of practice, he had already gotten 2 notifications on his Retina.

[Ding! Sword-mastery 1/100]

[Ding! Sword-mastery 2/100]

In the afternoon, he would 'try' to find his Earthling ability. He started by trying alchemy, he had always been interested in this profession.

First, he went around the forest to find some common herbs.

[Ding! Obtained Wild Clary!]

He remembered that was the herb needed for the mission in the Adventurer's Guild. It must be useful for something!

[Ding! Obtained Silk Hyssop!]

[Ding! Obtained Cliff Mint!]

... 

[Ding! Novice Herbalism 1/100]

'After an hour, I have only gained 1 experience point? This is even grindier than a Korean MMORPG... stupid System!' he thought.

...

After spending an hour or two in the forest, he had filled his basket full of herbs. He would try and mix them together, hoping to create some potions, medicinal paste or pills...

He made a fire by using the lighter he still had from Earth. When Butch saw this, he turned livid. 

"Fool, do you want to show everyone you're from Earth? Just throw all that crap away! We have firestones for this, you know!" he angrily whispered in Steve's ear.

'Right, I need to pay more attention to my old habits....' Steve told himself. 

He poured water in a cauldron which was used for alchemy. He put some herbs in it, and didn't really know what to do next. The MC's in the novels he read were always able to control the fire, allowing them to manipulate the herbs inside. He could only wait until it cooked out for now...

[Crafted Failed Product...]

[Crafted Failed Product...]

[Crafted Failed Product...]

...

[Ding!  Failure +1]

"..."

'This fucking system... it's laughing with me again...' Steve sobbed.

'Maybe I should just try and read some books about alchemy first...'

Steve went and asked  Care if they had some books about alchemy in the camp, but she quickly told him they had close to no books. If he wanted some, he would have to go to Acrine and get them.

Steve decided he'd make a trip to Acrine the next day... Not only to read about the various professions Elea had, but also to read up on the history and politics of Elea.

After Paul and Steve attended a festival on earth, they start encountering the strangest things. 

Who are the men with the strange faces, and what did they do to my brother?!

Follow MC Steve as we go on a trip to a different world, where magic is power & monsters run rampant.

When Steve arrives on Elea, he receives a system. Is he going to become OP like all those other MCs? He can only hope so, but the author has different plans for this MC.

This synopsis will evolve, just like MC.

The closer we got to Matebelmam more flying humanoids can be seen. Avian was the language Jodroun wanted Mark to learn. Could these be birdmen? Land of myths, so will I get to meet a harpy or other similar beings? Arriving at dock you can see about a third of the buildings are taller then the rest. Landings can be seen around these buildings making one think of aeries. A rope is pulled out of nowhere tying down the boat to dock. Inventory space something Mark would like to obtain somehow.

Jodroun suddenly shouts a few words to his clan, then turns to Mark. "We'll be settling in, then you and I will head out to buy a few books for you." Of course the fee will be added to your debt."

Great more debt, at this rate I should find some way to just join the clan. Based on the 25 copper per day fee, books are expensive here. Though if I am correct about this civilization then only the rich can read and write. I need to assimilate the latest book, but having a 2nd one while doing so will double my training.

"Since I am going further into debt can we look at new clothing and maybe gloves to prevent additional books from fading?"

Arriving at an inn just then, Jodroun turns "That actually sounds like a great idea!" Stepping inside to arrange rooms. Each room has a cost of 10 coppers for doubles while Jordoun's room costs 22 coppers. Must be equivalent to a suite in value. Looking around Mark realizes that 4 dwarfs stayed back at the boat. With 5 doubles apparently Mark gets to share a room with someone he can't communicate with sheesh. With no personal belongings doesn't take long to settle in and wait for Jodroun in the lobby.

"Ready to get materials to train with?" "I think we will get 4 books of 3 different languages. May place you in a position to help pay off your debt to me quicker."

"Yea debt, I would really like some way to communicate with other people then just you." "If I can read then I can write but what is the average literacy in this region?"

"Nobles and rich merchants usually can read and write their native tongue. Unless some special reason arises most others aren't very literate."

Frowning contemplatively Mark accompanies the dwarf to various shops. Most of the books cost 5 silver a few were more. Altogether he is now 1 gold further in debt. Though he has learned that 100 copper equals 1 silver and 100 silver equals 1 gold. Any additional currencies most likely follow that same process. Along with the books 2 sets of clothes and 3 pairs of gloves were also purchased increasing debt by 35 silver.

Back at the inn Mark takes his new belongings to his room. Taking his new gloves off and holding a random book. Upon entering his meditative state once again surrounded by a darkened region. As expected dwarfish was raised to 4 and once the headache fades avian is learned to 1. Checking time looks to be no decrease this time. Grabbing 2 more random books the night goes by. By morning Mark has realized that through meditation actual sleep is unnecessary.

????? soul level 1

Sojourn level 1
Clock - 1

Library level 1
Download Book - 1
Text translation – 1
Dwarfish – 4
Avian – 3
Harpy – 1
Cherubim - 1

Mapping level 1
Current location - 1

Chat level 1

Energy scanner level 1

"-Daily assimilation complete-"

The results as expected are double what a normal soul practitioner could accomplish. No improvement in meditation timing. If he could improve this to the 2 hours that Jodroun stated, even a slight increase in training speed would be worth while. That law of 5 needs further explaining as Text Translation didn't raise in level? Though maybe it is a multiple of 5 if so then my next meditation will result in an increase of level. Just as this thought occurs numbers begin to appear in similar position as the map and clock from before.

2*5=10

"AUG!! a calculator why is that a skill NO! NO! NO!" Mark shouts waking up not only the dwarf sharing his room but also those in adjoining rooms too. As they all come in to ready for battle and find nothing but a screaming human. Once things settle a dwarf pulls on Marks shirt pointing down stairs. Following the rest while calming down from his disappointment. Everyone gathers in the dinging area for breakfast. Along the way a bath section was pointed out.

As everyone finishes their meal up Jodroun asks. "So how close are you to being able to translate my avian books?"

"If I am correct then I just one more session will do it. Though I noticed with the dwarfish that a few words still cause me trouble."

"That is fine, you will still be able to tell me enough to properly price them for sale. Also reduce the chance of these birds from cheating me." "Come to my room once you are ready, I have something I want to try."

Slowly returning to his room the disappointment not fully gone. Calculator! How is a calculator skill going to help me survive this world. How am I going to learn to communicate with others? I need to somehow learn fighting skills, how do I accomplish that? Well studying will be easy as I can learn to read and write multiple languages in days rather then years. Eventually his mind settles and he can meditate once more. This time there is no headache when the book fades from his hands. While the fading and changing of words is skipped. It would appear that things are settling around the increased training process.

????? soul level 1

Sojourn level 1
Clock – 1
Calculator - 1

Library level 1
Download Book - 1
Text translation – 2
Dwarfish – 4
Avian – 4
Harpy – 1
Cherubim - 1

Mapping level 1
Current location - 1

Chat level 1

Energy scanner level 1

"-Daily assimilation complete-"

Coming out of meditation still no reduction in time. Yes the translation level went up, so it is multiple of 5. That damn calculator took up a training space. Hmm 9 books have been absorbed does that mean next time Download level will go up? What will the result of that be I wonder? Well lets go see what Jodroun has for me other then translating those books.

Knocking on the door Mark enters once Jodroun speaks aloud. "Enter find a place to sit at the table." The voice coming from the other room . Sounds like he is moving things around. After a couple of minutes Jodroun appears with several soul stones in hand. Oh no what has he in mind, those things already caused me enough trouble that I haven't completely worked out.

Stepping closer to Mark "I want you to hold one of these and concentrate on the hunter's book flowing into it." Jodroun explains quickly. Reaching out trustingly Mark barely touches the soul stone when something strange happens. Words appear directly ahead where the original ones from day 1 appeared. What the?

"-Chat connection available-"

"-Add Jodroun Hillbrew as chat member?-"

"-Assimilate answer Yes / No-"

Though Mark is dumb founded this situation can only happen so many times before the speed of resolution improves. Thus after only 5 seconds max Mark concentrates on a yes answer. Jodroun has been helpful even if it can all be boiled down to business. Curious on how a chat function operates without the internet. While also pondering how many 'friends' he can add. Will this sub skill be equivalent to a magical social network? Excitement wells up in Mark as this is a soul skill that has close ties to life on earth. Of course not both parties appear to be happy.

"NO!!! I will not swear to any liege soul holder!!!" "How can you have a liege soul and scholar soul!"

"Calm down Jodroun, I don't know what a liege soul is but this function is merely the ability to communicate with each other from a distance." As Mark attempts to explain the chat function, he steps outside the door. However no matter how much he thinks about the way to use a chat room nothing happens. All the excitement from a skill representing home fades to dust. Entering the room once more "Well looks like there is yet another sub skill needed to communicate." Calming down from Mark's antics Jodroun realizes there was no vow request on his end.

After that Mark translates 3 books for the dwarf. The atmosphere between the two a little more tense then it has been. Remembering the process Jodroun did before to assimilate English Mark takes the soul stone with him. Another random book and Download skill should level up time to meditate.

????? soul level 1
Sojourn level 1
Clock – 1
Calculator - 1

Library level 1
Download Book - 2
Text translation – 2
Dwarfish – 4
Avian – 4
Harpy – 1
Cherubim - 2

Mapping level 1
Current location - 1

Chat level 1
Jodroun Hillbrew - 1

Energy scanner level 1
"-Daily assimilation complete-"

So the connection is there, but no chat function. O.K. Social networks back home required a friends request be made that must be the connection. So obviously there is another sub skill to be able to communicate. Looks like the download book skill went up a level, not sure what can be done with that right now. Lets take some time to really think about these prime skills and how to improve them.

Mark operates a online stream debunking many of the myths throughout the world. latest target the supposed vortices in Sedona Arizona. Yes great place to practice yoga but no portals to other dimensions here. RIGHT???

Little did he know that picking up a random rock would transport him to a land of myths dwarves, elves, goblins. All the things he does not believe in will become reality.

In order to prosper he must learn how to level up his soul practitioner skills.

Will entered the classroom silently neither trying to eye catching nor hidden and. yet almost instantly everyone's eyes gathered onto him.
"Yo, it seems the rain catcher prince decided to come to class today instead of playing hooky."
"I hope skill training gets canceled today or else we all will become drenched with the prince's uncontrollable skill."
"Dammit, I should've brought an umbrella. I don't wanna go home wet today."
Will ignored the mutterings and groans directed towards him and sat down in his designated seat his face clear of all signs of abuse from the previous day. He received a look of gratitude from his professor who then proceeded to quiet down the class. "Alright everyone, let's all settle down. Today's class will be a little different than usual."
"Weren't we supposed to do skill training today?" asked a student earning glares from his surroundings.
"Yes, we were," replied the professor with a light smile. "However, I decide that it wouldn't hurt a bit to have a change of pace once in a while."
Some of the students let out a shout of glee while others let out a sigh of relief before giving will a glance. It was obvious what most of them were thinking. 'The Prince won't be able to cause us an inconvenience today.'
"If we aren't going to be doing skill training, then what will we be doing professor?" the same student from earlier asked.
"I was just about to explain," said the professor before snapping her fingers. A small ball of flame  appeared in her palms and the professor addressed the class with a smirk. "I'm trusting that everyone knows how this ball of fire is floating in my hand? Please don't make your professor sad and answer me correctly otherwise I might have to consider quitting my job as an educator."
A student let out a laugh before chuckling, "I don't know about the rest of us but Prince William might not know because he skipped many of your classes."
As the student's joke earned a round of laughter from nearly everyone in the room, the professor frowned and reprimanded the student who had made the joke. "I don't appreciate that comment, Bob. Don't make fun of others in my classroom. As punishment, you must answer my question... How is there a ball of fire floating in my hand?"
Bob rolled his eyes before lazily answering the teachers question. "With magic of course."
"And how does one use magic?"
"One must have a talent for magic."
The professor nodded her head. "Yes indeed. From the moment you are born, you are given a device called a 'phone'. Through the phone, you will be able to observe your status and message people from afar. The phone requires mana in order to operate and will disappear when not in use. Now everyone, please raise your hand if you have a skill related to magic."
Will took out his phone and opened up his status screen.
-
[ William Rainn ]
100/100 HP          100/100 MP          100/100 ST
One who is Followed by Rain (F)     Flowing Water Sword Style (F)     Impenetrable Mind (A)     Basic Swordsmanship (F)
-
After seeing a few hands pop up in the air, the professor let out a smile. "Alright, as you can see, not a lot of us hold magic related skills. This is precisely why wizards are so valued within any kingdom. However, is it required for you to hold a magic skill in order to use magic? Does anyone have an answer?"
"People can use magic if they have an artifact."
The professor nodded her head. "Yes indeed, utilizing a Magical Artifact is the most common form of using magic. However, there is one more way to use magic without having a magic skill. Anyone else wanna guess?"
"Learning magic through Skill Books?"
"Wrong," said the professor with a tut. "You can't learn magic through skill books. Skill books are for physical skills. Anyone else?"
"Spirits?"
"Correct!" said the teacher with a snap. "With spirits, you don't even need to focus on casting magic. The spirit will cast it for you. Best of all, you don't need a skill in order to make a contract. All you need to do is catch the attention of a spirit and convince it to create a contract. Now does anyone have guess to what kind of lesson we will have today?"
A hesitant student raised her hand. "Learn about spirits?"
"Nope," said the teacher gleefully. "We will be contracting spirits. Currently, we are surrounded by multiple spirits of a variety of elements. The most abundant type should be Water, Light, Nature, Wind, and Earth. Now remember, a spirit will only show itself if it finds you to be interesting. When it does, do not lie to it for this will make it dislike you. If a spirit doesn't like you, then it will not contract with you. You can never force a spirit to contract you."
The teacher glanced down at her watch before smirking. "Ill give you seven hours. You can go and try to find and contract a spirit or you can laze around and do nothing. Time starts... now."
The students left the classroom one by one until the only people remaining in the class were Will and the professor. The professor gave a wry smile at Will who had taken out a book from his bag and was beginning to read. "Are you not gonna go and find a spirit?"
Will wet his finger with his spit before flipping a page in his book. "I do not particularly feel the desire to create a contract with a spirit."
"Oh come on," said the professor with a sigh. "I even spent so much time coming up with this lesson. I even had to receive permission from the principal. I promised that you would enjoy the lesson after all."
"And I promised to arrive on time." Said Will without looking up from his book. "You kept your promise while I kept mine. Besides, you said it yourself. Spirits only reveal themselves to people they find interesting. I am very well aware of my lack of personality and my abysmal ability to be entertaining."
"But to see the student who I prepared the lesson for not participate feels a bit... unsatisfactory."
Will didn't bother to respond and continued to read his book.
"Won't you please at least try to make a contract?" asked the professor hoping to illicit a response from Will. 
However, when the outside sky started to rumble with the hints of a small thunderstorm, the professor sighed. "Oh well. I did say you could do whatever you want. I'll be heading out first then. Enjoy yourself today."
"Goodbye professor."
"Tch. Now you answer me? Right when I am about to go?"
"My father taught me that it was rude to ignore an associate when they leave."
The teacher let out a defeated sigh before waving Will off and left the classroom. At some point of time, a light rain started to fall and started to quietly beat on the thin windows of the classroom. Losing himself in the random yet synchronous drumming of raindrops, Will became even more absorbed into his book until he felt something cold touch his face.
When he looked up, he saw a miniature girl as small as a fairy with sparkling sapphire eyes and flowing dark blue staring right back at him. After a moment of staring at each other, the doll-like  girl tilted her head.
"Are you the boy who the rain follows so sadly?"

In a family filled with sea serpents, he is a lowly rain catcher. His only ability is to summon rain. Due to his weird and useless skill, he was tortured and abused by everyone who saw him. However, he will rise above others and show them what it really means to be useless.

Seraphine kept staring at Desmond as she suddenly sighed "well it's not like I could stop you anyway with that kind of blind devotion to magic you'll fit right in with all those other magi if you ever make it that far that is. I'll get you that introduction into magic book set for you now. 

"Wait, I only wanted to know the prices of those books I don't have any Drachma on me to buy them at the moment". Desmond was saddened by how he was unable to buy those books right now but, he had to find his home first and get cleaned up so he could exchange those monster cores for money.

Seraphine looked straight at Desmond "judging from your armor you must have just come back from clover forest so you must have gotten some kind of magical plant or monster core out there you can just use that to change for the books".

Desmond's eyes grew wide in surprise "I can trade my monster cores her".

"A lot of stores don't except monster cores or herbs for trade because of price fluctuations but you can here. You also may wind up taking a loss if you trade your monster core directly to us or we will end up on the losing end of the deal and not make a prophet but me and my husband have been doing this for years so it's gonna be hard to try and scam us." she really does not want to let this sale go, she really is one hell of a salesperson.

I nod my head in agreement It's not like I could have used those monster cores to do anything with so trading them for Magic books is most definitely worth it to me.

"Alright just give me a second to get them" I get down on one knee open my bag and take out the 3 shining monster cores which I hand off to seraphine.

She takes the cores and inspects them "let's see two small blue cores there beginner apprentice grade and most likely drowner cores. Only worth about one mage stone for the both of them you need 40 for them to equal one magic crystal still it's more than enough to pay for that introduction into magic package. The second one Is advance apprentice grade it's in good condition I don't know from what creature, but about 50 magic crystals on the low end".

"Hubby, mind taking out that new appraisal device I just bought" she through my monster core at Ragnar who caught it with one hand.

"Alright just give me a second" from under the counter he pulled out a wide black slab that had white carvings on it the same kind that are on my gun and bullets. The carvings glowed when he placed the green sphere on it.

"It appears to be from a sleeping death plant its worth I would say around 100 magic crystals. How In the world did you manage to get a monster core like this? Sleeping deaths are quite hard to kill for creatures. below the level of rank 1 their one of the toughest even with a group.

They may have a weak defense but they always put everything around them to sleep and then trap their prey in an illusion that is hard to break out of without the right potions. Since potions are so expensive there is basically no profit when hunting these things which is why so few even bother to do it". Ragnar had a look of suspicion when he looked at me it made me feel uncomfortable.

Since it was not something I had to keep a secret any way I just told him so he would not think I stole the thing while leaving out the important details and changing some things around I even took out the gun and knife I used and showed It to him. 

"An enchanted flintlock with enchanted pullets the guns an old model worth about 300-400 magic crystals and the bullets about mage stones 10 each looks like even some of the runes are losing their power, but it does explain how someone as weak as you could defeat that thing so easily. The knife is about 100 to 150 magic crystals it only has one active not passive basic enchant making it sharper when you inject mana into it". To think you would get lucky enough to spot one of those things from a distance and shoot its stem before it could even spot you now aren't you lucky.

Ragnar handed me back my things as I asked him about the enchanted knife" This knife was gifted to me by an old friend but I have never used an enchanted blade before can you tell me how I inject my magic into it to activate the runes?". 

"You must really suck at using magic to not even know how to do that. Listen up since everyone has some amount of magic in them well most of the time that is there are still those rare chances someone's born without magic. Everyone unconsciously releases Magic in every action they do. People who train in magic can stop that flow of magic from leaking out.

That's why at times you can find traces of magic on some of the greatest artworks in history or even fined some on your food when you're eating at a restaurant even if the person is not a mage.

Injecting magic Into something is easier than people think since we're always doing it. It's just hard to switch it from passively releasing it to actively releasing magic.

So, what you need to do is simply focus by feeling the flow of magic inside your body and directing In a way that feels comfortable to you. It helps if you imagine your body as a vast lake and you have a channel going from that lake up to your arm to the weapon".

Ragnar took back the curved dagger he handed to me to demonstrate what he said. As he held the weapon in his hand it glowed a soft light. The light was very faint though only comparable to a wisp of smoke. He then took out a block of wood from under the counter placed it on the table and cut it in half as easy as cutting through a steak. So there was still some resistance but, he ended up cutting it fairly cleanly in half.

My eyes grew wide after seeing this "this enchant is amazing it's so powerful".

"No, it's not its one of the most basic ones there are a bunch of things out there you could never hope to harm with only something like this" Ragnar shook his head feeling as though that old man's chances of becoming a mage had just worsened.

Desmond thought that these people were very useful they kept telling him all kinds of things he needed to know for free. It was all general knowledge but it was still things he did not know so he thought about making the most out of their kindness.

"I remember you were reading a scroll when I first walked in. I happen to have a few scrolls given to me for my protection, but he forgot to tell me what any of them did so I can't use any of them until I know their effects can you please identify them for me".  Desmond then went into his bag and took out 5 rolled up scrolls and handed them to Ragnar.

He proceeded to unfurl the scroll place it on the table and turn it towards me while placing his finger on the top right corner. "You see these words up here it's modern Zedrick, not ancient Zedrick like how most spells are written or spoken in so you should be able to tell what the scrolls are yourself this one says, Earth Spike surge. 

It creates a wave of earth spikes in every direction from the ground in any location you want within 30 feet that shoots up and stabs your enemy.

You also have one that says magic needles a lower level spell compared to magic missiles, acid splash, low-grade invisibility, and firestorm, that one's not actually half bad. Except for firestorm which is an advanced apprentice spell the rest are at an intermediate apprentice grade.

Activation requires no magic there are three ways to activate the scroll even tear it up, speak to spell name, or read the incantation. just so you know no one does the last one it takes too much time". He told me what all the scroll's effects did and their effective range.

He then handed me back all my scrolls I put them away and right after that his wife seraphine walked up to me with a pile of books wrapped up in hand. " Your Introduction into magic book set is there anything else you need". She had a sweet smile on her face as she asked me that.

I looked at the books she brought me the were not that thick as I had expected that's when I noticed this book set did not come with some important ones that he needed to know about magic.

"Yes, this book set doesn't seem to come with a book on how to read ancient Frazik, or how to read runes. There is also no book on how to make a magic circle, cast spells or a book about magical plants or creatures".

"Those books are not included in the public book set. A book on how to read ancient Zedrick is only 10 magic crystals, the book on how to read runes is 30 magic crystals, the book on the basics of creating a magic circle is 40 magic crystals, the book of magical plants and creatures depending on the one you want around 20 magic crystals. spellbooks we are not allowed to sell anything beyond Beginner Apprentice Grade and depending on the kind of spellbook you want it'll be between 20 and 100 magic crystals each".  

I still did not know the value of magic crystals but if I treat every magic crystal I see like 100 dollar bills than I start to get a sense of how expensive everything is.

"I want the book on how to read ancient Zedrick, ancient runes, and one book with the most information about magical plants and creatures. I would also like a book about the history of Theotera, and a map of the world, a map of the clover forest and a map of the city". I've been lost and stupidly walking around for far too long I really need those maps.

"We don't have a map of Theotera but we do have a book with a map in it for 3 magic crystals. Those 2 other maps are only 200 drachma (or 2 Gold Mines). Will that be everything you wish to purchase". She said with a smile.

"Yes, that's all I would like to buy today. I may not know the true value magic crystals I can still feel the sting in my pocket. My piecing together everything I know about prices in this world currently it's no wonder that guard said Magi apprentices are broke.  She started to walk off to grab my books when I suddenly stopped her.

"Wait a moment, please I am a bit lost currently can you direct me toward the underground" I have been searching all around for where I lived yet no memories are surfacing so either I'm missing an obvious clue or this man used to live somewhere in that place they call the underground.

"Sure I can help you, see we're currently on the intersection between District D and C called morning road. If you want to reach the trains heading Underground you'll have to go towards the tall Bell Tower in the distance. You'll see it if you just look up the bell towers signifies the train depot in this area". She quickly answered my question before promptly leaving grabbing my books and handing them to me.

"That all comes out to 68 magic crystals and 200 drachma (or 2 Gold Mines) your change is 31 magic crystals and 19 and 3/4's of mage stones and since mortal money does not transfer well with the money magi use you have the option of 99 gold mine and 98 Drachma or you could buy more books". The lady was a splendid sale man as she told me this.

So, magi don't accept those bills I keep seeing as payment "can In open a tab here and put that money in it I plan on coming back there are still more books I need to buy. Just give me 800 Drachma (8 gold mine)." Carrying all those bills in my pocket would be annoying anyway. Magic Crystals are apparently a better form of payment anyways.

"Of course you can, may I have your name please"

"My name is Desmond Gillies" She had taken my name down and hands me my money in a leather pouch. The magic crystals were the length and width of my finger making them annoying to carry. They were light blue and looked like they had a rainbow inside of them. The drachma was in paper form like dollar bills just silver and had pictures of mages on them. They ranged from they came in the form of 1, 10, 20, 50, and 100 bills.

"They're even able to put pictures of themselves on their money magi really are full of themselves, I can't wait to become one".

After that, I leave the store with all my books in tow heading toward that train depot to find my home while looking towards a bright future.

What is the truth? What is reality? Could the end actually be the beginning? In a world were ancient beings walk beside you, guard people against the uniqueness of the world and powerful creatures around them. While trying to obtain the truth of everything and reach the pinnacle of magic. They face new contenders that make there already harrowing world that much difficult and strange. Resulted from a battle of immense proportions against beings incomprehensible, as they clash the void shatters cracks are left all over souls from all across different worlds and dimensions are free once more. This is were our story beings this is the journey of a man who leads to the spread of uncertainty.

Disclaimer: I don't own the image provided.

"Ding...Loading Completed"

"Welcome to Immortal System!"

As the saying goes, happiness appears when one least expect it. 

Tian Feng had long forgotten the idea of getting a system. But suddenly, he received one today and he didn't know how to feel about this.

There was an interface appearing in front of him with many menus but most of them have a lock icon on its name and greyed out.

Menu
Character
Inventory
Shop
Skills (Locked)
Mission (Locked)
Friends (Locked)
Party (Locked)
Maps (Locked)
...

He can see his status and the current clothes that he's wearing showing in the system as well. This is similar to the interface of a game that he used to play long ago.

Status
Name: Tian Feng
Age: 2

Cultivation: None
Strength: 0.01
Agility: 0.01

Race: Human

There's also an inventory icon. He raised his hand to touch it but his hand went through the interface screen. He tried saying "Inventory" but nothing happened either. Finally, he tried to open it using his thought and it worked.

Tian Feng was just like an excited kid unboxing his first toy car. Well, he was a kid after all.

There's nothing except one skill book [Steel Body] and a beginner gift box. Focusing his mind on the skill book, there's a dialogue appeared.

Item Details
Name: Steel Body Manual
Tier: Bronze

Effects: Practitioner's skin will be more hardened with each increase in level. Practice to the maximum will grant the practitioner a body as hard as steel.

Side-Effects: 100 points to view.

Below there are two buttons, "Learn" and "Discard"

Intuitively when he wanted to know his point, he looked at the top screen. He then saw his point as expected which is zero. He didn't worry since there's a point system, there are bounded to be ways to earn points.

The physical skill book in his hand had long disappeared. An idea comes to his mind, he tried touching another book to test if it'd only work on skill books. Tian Feng glanced around and decided to pick a history book which he has finished reading.

In any case, he has already read that book. Even if it's disappeared, there won't be a problem.

The book stayed in his hand for a short moment before disappeared. [It seems I can control whether or not I want to put it in the inventory.]

With a thought, the book disappeared from his hand and reappeared in his inventory. Focusing on it, a new dialogue showed up.

Item Details
Name: A Brief History of Sun Clan
Description: Sun Liang wrote this book in the year 918 describing the affairs of the Sun Clan from his personal experiences. 10 point to read more.

Below there's only one button "Discard"

[There is a difference between a skill book and a normal book after all.]

He closed the dialogue and return back to the main screen. Tian Feng continued browsing around for a while. He was a programmer, someone from a world of technology. Facing this new interface, it was like a fish got into the water.

Tian Feng immersed himself with the system interface. Fifteen minutes later, he finally let out a sigh.

"This system is way too expensive...It should be named 'Rich Kids' system instead."

His new system has many functions which make him exhilarated even if most of them are still locked right now. 

There's even a function that'll give him various psychic abilities. The Maps is still unusable. The mission is locked so he couldn't check it. The shop, friend and party, he knows about it even without checking. Most of them are similar to a typical MMORPG.

Tian Feng didn't have an excited expression on his face anymore. He looked rather solemn. Like someone who's deeply thinking about something.

The reason that made him looked like this now is because of the PRICE. Each of those functions either required points to open or use. He didn't even have a single point right now. It's like having a roasted chicken in front of him, but he's only allowed to stare.

To open a skill fusion menu, he needs around 30000 points. To unlock the one seemingly cheapest psychic ability required around 80000 points. The price of the items in the shop is astronomical.

Recalling the gift box inside the inventory, he decided to open it. Some items popped into the inventory slots and there are 10 points to his previously 0 points.

Although he had 10 points now but compared to those prices, this is still nothing. It's like comparing a firefly to a bright moon in the sky.

What can he do with these 10 points?

[I need to earn more points... just that I don't know how to earn those point at all. What should I do?]

Tian Feng had search almost every crook and cranny inside the system to find a way to earn points. However, he didn't find anything useful. He speculated that if he completed missions and the such, it should reward point. But he didn't have enough points to unlock the mission so he could only shake away this thought.

Tian Feng turned from the points to look at the items in the inventory. There's something else from the gift box. It's a book. [The system manual book?]

Focusing on it, it's really a manual book of the system. The book seemed to be different from the normal book as there's another button beside the 'Discard' button. 

'Absorb' 'Discard'

He quickly tried to absorb it, but there's also a price for the absorption. It's exactly 10 points. 

He wanted to take the book out to read but it cannot be taken out. Thus he decided to absorb it. It's only natural that the system's property shouldn't be taken out lightly. Tian Feng understands this because of the knowledge of many novels he read on Earth.

"Such a stingy system! Give me 10 points just to spend with you."

Information started rushing into his mind at a fast speed. Tian Feng felt paralyzed for like a second. He wasn't sure whether it was caused by the system. 

He didn't think more into this matter since he doesn't have any points to try it again anyway. As a lazy person, he wouldn't do something repeatedly or something useless.

It didn't take long before the knowledge got assimilated and he can access it as he had read about it. They are only knowledge about how to use the system. Most of which, he had already known while exploring the system earlier. 

The book has disappeared from the inventory as expected. He closed the interface and walk toward his new cultivation books. 

---

Somewhere in the dark, a female's laughter could be heard. She was giggling as if a cute girl watching something funny. "It took me a lot of effort to build this thing that you want. So, you will have to work harder."

---

Tian Feng picked up one of the cultivation books that his mom bought for him and started to read. Barely after skimming through for a while, his expression turned to look like a depressed baby. 

Those cultivation books don't teach any techniques at all. 

With a gloomy face, he kept those book into his inventory and then went to sleep. The books weren't worth securing but he just wants something to fill those empty slots in the inventory.

In the next day, he awoke even before his mom come to wake him up. He looked deep in thought while lying on his bed. Nobody knows what he's thinking about. 

Tian Feng had been browsing through the system shop since he woke up this morning. If there's really no technique in any of the cultivation books, this system 'learn' function might be his only hope.

Tian Feng grinned as he stared at an item in the system shop. [I found it!]

He found the cultivation book that he could practice in the system shop. It is 10000 points so he still needs to find a way to earn more points.

---

In front of the city gate...

A group of people was seen discussing something. They exuded a righteous aura surrounding them. 

All of them were wearing the same style of robe in different colours. With just a look, one could tell that they are anything but ordinary people. After entering the city, they had been walking in the direction of Tian Lang's restaurant.

"Big Brother! There's a restaurant over there." said one of them.

"Let's go there!"

When the group of five entered the restaurant, a waiter welcomed them respectfully. While the waiter might not know of their identities, just by merely looking at the robe coupled with the aura coming from them is enough of a reason to respect them.

The waiter swiftly led them to a table and waited on them.

Tian Feng was reading his book as usual when he suddenly heard a system notification.

"Ding...Detected presences of celestial beasts."

Being caught off guard while he was focusing on reading, he startled [Celestial Beasts...? What's that?] 

Without waiting for the reply, he scanned his surrounding. [Where's it? Why didn't I see any beast? Not even a cat.]

However, it's hard to ignore the system notification. If the system had to warn him about it, those beasts must have had a bad intention.

According to the system manual, the system would protect him from harm until he had gained a certain level of strength to protect himself.

Recalling the system, he remembers that gaining new knowledge is also gaining points. Besides, there are still many activities that he can complete to earn points.

According to the system manual, the methods to earn points will be updated according to his age and power.

Activities
Walk 1000 steps. (127/1000) 100 points
Run 50 meters. (0/50) 50 points
Jump 3 times. (0/3) 15 points
Read 1 book. (0/1) 100 points
.
.
.

It was said that the task will upgrade when it's completed and the reward will update accordingly.

What Tian Feng didn't know was that as soon as the notification rang, an inviolable aura was exuded from his body.

The eyebrow of the man who led the group here shot up in alarm. He turned to the one next to him slowly and said in a low voice, "It seems we'll have to find another location."

The others also noticed the aura and nodded fully understanding the complications of the matter. They act normally and finished their meal before leaving silently.

Tian Lang also sensed the aura but he thought it to be from someone in the restaurant so he didn't pay much heed. He only called in the waiter and told them to be careful.

As Tian Feng didn't have any cultivation yet, he wasn't able to sense the aura as everyone else. Oblivious to everything, he simply gave up on finding the celestial beasts and continued reading.

He gauged that the system should have differed them from any actions.

3 year later...

Tian Feng finally got enough point to buy a cultivation skill.

While the activities to earn the point may seem simple, it was easier said than done. His body is too weak and he can't even complete 1000 steps on that day three years ago. 

The accumulation over the years is not a small amount. Besides, as he grew older and stronger, the points he could earn in a single day is more than before.

One day, he had enough points to learn the 'Steel Body' but, 

"Host is required to have a cultivation of at least level 1 to learn this skill."

As he garnered more and more points, he didn't want to buy that 10000 points book anymore. He wanted the best cultivation book for himself so he set his goal for a Heaven Tier cultivation book which costs 90000 points.

He had read many books over the three years and thus he had learnt a lot of things about cultivation in this world as well as cultivators.

While the previous book was cheap and not bad, it wasn't good enough. Practising that would only waste his time. 

He had already wasted 3 years doing nothing but waiting for a cultivation technique so he didn't want to waste any more time.

Status
Name: Tian Feng
Age: 5

Cultivation: None
Strength: 0.3
Agility: 0.4

Race: Human

His strength and agility increased quite a bit. From the manual, he knows that 1 point of the attribute is equal to an average healthy adult. 

Consider that a 5 years old kid possessing around one-third of an adult's strength, it's pretty astounding.

Because he executed all the activities suggested by the system, Tian Feng had become stronger than most kids around his age even when he didn't have any cultivation.

In the restaurant, two kids were seen playing the Run And Catch with each other happily. They were Tian Feng and Da Jing. For the past 3 years, this restaurant is almost the only place that Tian Feng hang out.

He never saw his grandparents. He never saw any relatives. Every new year, his family would spend time together, just the three of them.

Tian Feng knew that his parents from the previous world were orphanages but at least they still have relatives. He didn't feel upset or lonely because of this. 

Tian Feng is not the kind of person who would accept friend readily. He could take a long time before he accept anyone into his life. But in order to earn the system points, he forced himself to play with a kid.

As time passed, he had come to really enjoyed it. Sometimes he even forgets that he's an adult. His family could be said to be one of the happiest families in the world. 

Just that something is different from Earth. If everything related to him is still the same, his sister should have been born when he was three years old. 

However, she's nowhere to be seen. Thinking about it, he really missed her. Although he almost always argues with her he still loves her.

"Xiao Jing! I'm going home." Tian Feng shouted.

"Er..." Da Jing shouted back.

Da Jing is the son of a new waiter, Da Fang. He's one year younger than Tian Feng. His father, Tian Lang thought that his son is always alone and won't go play with those children on the street so he allowed Da Fang to bring Da Jing to work.

Of course, he knew that he's actually a young man but seeing his small body, who would care so much about that story.

"Ding...Talking with a friend for 100 sentences completed. Obtained 100 points."

On the motorbike, Tian Feng sat in the front seat. He still likes that seat regardless of his age. His head had already become tall enough to block his dad's vision. While they're riding back home, Tian Feng was excited about his first cultivation book. 

Opening his system interface, he saw his total points of 90254. He felt quite happy with this. Turn to the shop menu, he opened it.[Finally, I'll be able to cultivate.]

The book that he wants to buy is "Celestial Immortal Art: Qi Condensation".

"Host obtained 'Celestial Immortal Art: Qi Condensation'"

"Obtained 9000 points and 10% discount badge (1) for making the first purchase."

He was excited for getting 9000 points but he paid it no heed. Tian Feng hurriedly switched to the inventory to see his new book.

Item Details
Name: Celestial Immortal Art
Tier: High Heaven

Effects: Practitioner's Qi absorption speed will be increased with each increased in level. Practitioner's Qi will become purer and thicker.

Practice to the max level will enable Qi to circulate around all 108 acupuncture. The practitioner will be able to absorb Celestial Qi.

Side-Effects: 1000 points to read more.

"Learn" or "Discard"

Tian Feng immediately chose 'Learn' without any hesitation. He did have a thought of taking it out to read but he afraid that it might not work and end up losing the book. Besides he was too excited to start cultivating.

Instantly, three options appear, "Memorize 100 points", "Learn 1000 points" and "Quick Learn 10000 points"

"Hais... fortunately system gifted back 9000 points otherwise I would have to wait a few days before I can start." 

Tian Feng was speechless. This system is just expensive. Everything requires points. He remembered those systems from the novels that don't require MC to pay anything. 

Does this system eat points or something?

Waking up in a new world, Tian Feng finds himself become a 1-year-old child once again. Along with this weird phenomenon, a seemingly omnipotent system awaken within him. 

To become the most potent being, to live without regret; Possessing this OP system, he thought it would be smooth sailing. Little did he know that it couldn’t be further from the truth.

This is a melancholy story of a man and his companions, adventuring from one world to another; Discovering the meaning of life and regret.

There's nothing to write about at the end. The protagonist Chen Jin has become invincible. No matter what villain appears, the protagonist can easily get things under control.
If I continue to muddle along, that would be cheating your money. This book should have been over a long time ago.
I apologize to all readers for letting you down.
As early as the beginning of the book, I had a strong premonition that the book would collapse towards the end. It was not bad that I maintained the chapters until the word count reached the millions. This is the common problem of stories with an invincible protagonist. The story is invigorating and pleasant in the beginning, and the readers like it, but later on, the aesthetics of the story become exhausting, and the author can't spin the story anymore. It could only end hastily.
Of course, I also have some gains and insights.
First of all, after writing the book "A Simulated Life In The City," the pace at which I had written the other books that followed had been fast. Perhaps its because I've become more practiced at writing outlines in an endless stream and that my brain circuit has become "fixed." Time passes very quickly, resulting in a lack of details in which only the main framework has no details. The ups and downs, the twists and turns were not large, and the collapse came faster.
This is my flaw, a flaw that must be overcome, I need to walk out from the habit of writing outlines at a rapid pace continuously. Otherwise, my books will fail, one by one.
I haven't coded much in the past few months. I've been watching animation and reading novels most of the time.
I've watched at least 100 animation series and read 400 or 500 novels. Of course, the animation series were viewed at double the speed and the novels were speed read. This was just to speed up efficiency and to learn more useful things.
This is probably also a kind of learning.
But could this kind of learning allowed me to break through the bottleneck and enter a whole new level? There is no guarantee. After all, it's difficult to change a mindset. I've also started on two new books, but I always feel that whatever I type, it's trash; that I haven't improved.
Maybe I have to accumulate and absorb more things
Second, there are gains too.
With this book, I've made money for the down payment of the house (in the range of 100,000). The financial strain has eased a little. My "writer level" has reached LV5. This is something that I have never dared to imagine. It seems that I'm not too far away from being a great writer. Even if I do know that I can't even be considered as a middling writer. I'm at best, an old failure.
Also, this book has spurred a wave of "I've found (something)" and led a wave of popularity. There are at least two or three author friends around me who want to use the pattern of the title of this book and start with "I Found A" in the opening. There are even more imitations. In the end, I "laid myself out as a failure" and generated some results, which was unexpected.
I even feel a little surreal.
Of course, I also know that I've received a torrent of curses in some forums, which reminded me to be clear to myself about my real capabilities and not overestimate myself. There is still room for improvement.
The last is about my new book.
The new book is in progress! The outline is done, and I have a rough story in my heart.
Also, this time I want to break through my standards and overcome weaknesses in character description (in other words, I want to make progress in this area).
Therefore, I want to create a group of exciting characters in my new book, using the characters as the framework. The characters will be the center, and stories will develop around each character. There will no longer be cliched, unrealistic and illogical plotlines
Moreover, the "cheat codes" given to the protagonist will not be too powerful, the protagonist will not be invincible in the early stages. He would slowly grow and rise in power, encountering many setbacks and difficulties along the way. The road will not be smooth.
I am well aware of the situation, this attempt to transform my style has a 70% probability of failing.
Whether the editors will give me a chance, whether the novel will make it to the shelves, whether its a done deal or not, I can only put a bold face on and try.
I hope everyone will support my new book and vote for it after it is released on July 1st.
At this point, I don't know if the reader will be angry at me or scold me, but I still hope that you can support my new book, take a look at my story, and give a little encouragement.
The finale of all finales.
I recommend a few books written by my friends.
One is "I Duplicated an Earth," by Qin Geng Shan Shui, which was written by a fan in my book group. He has also now joined the ranks of the writers because of his hobby. His previous attempt, a book titled, "I Found An Immortal Realm" failed, but the improvements in this book are amazing. 100 points for creativity! Even I am chasing this book, I recommend it, I have a hunch, even if he does not become some great writer in the future, he will at least be a middling writer no worse than me. I hope everyone will add this book to their collection and support it!
There is another book, "I'm Really Not A Pop Star," by Master Sun's Words Become Poems. He is an old friend of mine, and he'd tried to transform his style in his last book. His first order called for more than 1,300 copies. I feel this is a pretty good result, if he maintains this result and keeps the plot from collapsing, it could finish off as a perfect work. But he's still not satisfied, and then he started this new book. I can only sigh. We all need to support our families, and we all have pressure. So, I hope that everyone will also collect this book. Give him the occasional vote and contributions. I give you my thanks!
And I want to repeat this, my new book will be making its debut on July 1st. For those who support me, I hope that you will give me a little support and encouragement. I can't say that everyone will be satisfied, but at the very least, some supporters will see a different story and feel a little anticipation.
I hope that everyone will look forward to my new book on July 1st. We'll meet again in the new book.


Through a mysterious portal, Chen Jin arrived at this strange place - a post-apocalyptic world where civilization had been destroyed. 

Consequently, he found -

A piece of metal scrap
A robot trash collector
A battleground
A city
A ton and more of gold
A copy of high-tech documents
A...
In short, Chen Jin found a planet.

"Here read this!" Sai handed over a book with the title 'Wind whisper', and motioning for her to sit beside him. Which the onlookers stared with envy.

Izen took the book and started reading.

[System: You have awakened a skill.]
[Skill: Detection lvl. 0
-Detect enemy and allies in a range of 50 meters. MP: 10MP.]

Five minutes haven't even passed when she sent this message to Sai, while everyone was trying to acquire as many spells they can to be valuable in their future adventure. A message note from the team chat, that reads: "Anyone have this skill <Detection>?"

"I Do! Shapeless and GurinBare raised.

"Why? Did you finally obtain it?" VerBoss

"She did!" Sai said, pointing the Miko beside him. 

"You know, I wasn't going to say this, but are you going to introduce us or something?" AleyaNala sent this in the team chat while staring straight at Sai. She was the only female in the group, and yet she voiced out what everyone else was thinking.

"Oh... Haha... Guys this is my good friend Mizarin. An Oracle class. And currently on her Alchemist quest that I interrupted." Sai said this sheepishly, adding some personal and unnecessary information just to have a topic of conversation.

"The lady is AleyaNala, VerBoss the strange Guy, GurinBare the toughest one, and Shapeless the quiet one... We're all druids, I met them during my initiation quest in the Druid's encampment." Introduced Sai.

"Nice to meet you, I thank you for being patient to this thoughtless person right here. I am Mizarin." Izen said.

[Party Invite From AleyaNala.
<Accept><Decline>]

"It's hard to be speaking out loud here, let's talk in private," AleyaNala said with a bright smile.

"Ohh... Sure... Accept." Izen spoke.

"SayaShin said that you gained the Detection skill?.... is it from the book your reading or somewhere else?" -VerBoss

"Ah... Yeah it's from this book,"- Mizarin

"How did you do that?... it was less than 5 minutes when you arrived when Saya linked us... it took me at least 20 minutes to learn it."-GurinBare

"Umm... I just read what I was interested in. I mean, I'm used to reading novels and this is all written in technical definitions, so it is going to be hards if you read it cover to cover."- Izen said.

"Ohh... so that's how it's done? I thought we should read the book to gain as many skills we can from it." GurinBare said.

His companions looked at him as if they are being insulted, in-fact compared to others he gained more skills than the others, but only the skills that he understood at a theoretical level, unlike the others that gained the more practical skills.

"So how is the alchemist apprenticeship quest?"- SayaShin asked Mizarin.

"See for your self,<Attachment>"- Mizarin

[Quest: The Alchemists Request
- To become an alchemist apprentice you must bring the highest quality material you find.
Diamond (0/1)
Pearls (0/10)
Herbs (0/100)
Gold (0/1)
Firewood (0/10)
Time limit:  4 Days 21:30 Hours
Reward: Alchemist Gift (Depends on the Quality of the materials), Random Alchemical Skill Book, Alchemists Ring, Gold 10, EXP 500]

"What does it mean the highest quality material?" -SayaShin

"It should have something to rarity, and the energy content."- AleyaNala

"Do explain."- Shapeless

"Based on the book on compounding, refining, herbs, minerals, appraisal, beast information, legendary weapons. Material with aura is the highest quality material, but that is only limited to its rarity, for example, you have two materials of the same kind, and has a rarity of epic, now one is with aura and the other does not, then you can qualify the one with aura as a higher quality over the one without." -AleyaNala

"Ohh... so that's how it is... good thing I didn't finish the quest with these materials that I bought."- Mizarin 

"You had the time to collect materials before you got here?... for a class with baby legs, your quit fast!" - Shapeless 

"The team that I came across, heading towards the main city said the same. They were kind enough to give away a basic healing and haste spell. So I had to accompany them to the city gates."- Mizarin

"I don't get what you meant about accompanying them to the gate?" VerBoss 

"I think what she means is that being below lvl 10 she is protected by the system, so any monsters higher than the highest level in her party will not approach. So she moved fast because of the haste spell and people helping her defeat monster."-SayaShin

"Didn't you guys have trouble getting here?"-Mizarin 

"We didn't walk to get here.<Portal Orb>"- AleyaNala 

[Portal Orb
Skill
Transfer (Active)
-Teleport yourself to the set coordinates:
Magic Academy (MA, 500,9870)
Royal Training Grounds (TG, 6898,599)
Land of Faith (HL, 7876,5867)
Dark Forest (DF, 875,6933)
Deep Forest (DG, 500,8190)

Group Transfer(Active)
-Only available when three or more Portal Orb is activated within 10 meters of each other and the exact same destination.
-Mana consumption is halved, and reduce 5% for every extra Orb.]

"Wow... where did you get such a convenient item."-Mizarin 

"We happened to activate a hidden exchange interface with the herbalist. Let's try if there is one in the magician or the alchemist if there is none we can just get one from the herbalist."-SayaShin

While others were leaving, or searching the bookshelves for lost books.the group continues the book worming activity for another 8 hours, when suddenly a notification rung on their ears.

[System: You have obtained more than 15 skills, in one sitting, from the Magicians Library. The magician, Minue, had gained an interest in your dedication and wishes to speak with you.] 

After the sound of notification rang thrice. A sound of knocking on the table was heard in the entire dome.

"Tok! Tok! Tok!" The sound of knuckles taping the table, where a group of druids and an oracle, attracted their attention whispering to each other.

"What?... How dis they get the librarian to walk-up to them?!"

"Why did the Librarian leave his station?!"

"What quest are they doing?!"

"Is this a hidden quest?!"

It's only been a week since the game was launched, but no one has ever seen Minue leave the counter. For those that had seen the group since the arrival of the Miko, they have already assumed that the group had chanced upon a hidden quest with very strict requirements, they have left and returned, yet the group is still up to something as if they live in another world.

"Young Scholars, may I interrupt your dedication?" Minue

"How may we help thee, esteemed guardian." -Mizarin 

"I have observed that the books you have gathered, and devoured are of high quality, be it the introduction or informative books. I as the librarian can not leave my post, thus I wish to implore you, young ones, to assist me in search of the misplaced book titled: 'Special Enchantments', within this library. Would you be willing to assist?"- Minue

[System: Will you accept the Librarians request?<Accept><Decline>]

[Quest: 'Special Enchantments' (Special, Hidden Quest)
-Book(s) of Enchantments is lost within this library, assist the Librarian in Locating and Retrieving the book(s).
Reward: Unknown.]

"Yes, we shall accept your request." The leader AleyaNala spoke.

"A group Quest!"-VerBoss

"Not to mention a Special Quest." - Shapeless 

The requirement for the quest was indeed very steep for anyone to attain. The First requirement was, for a group of 6, no more no less, must be in a party. Second, the party must be above level three. Lastly, the party must obtain notable skills in the library, within 24 hours of the NPC timer. If any of these are not met, then the quest will not be activated.

"What's with this 'Book(s)' on the description. Is there one or more books of the same name?" - GurinBare

"Let us start searching first!"-SayaShin

Hearing this, the group immediately used their searching spell.

[Wind Search] A torrent of cold and warm wind blows harmlessly, its origins; VerBoss.

[Aura Search] An Ephemeral atmosphere like a forest filled with fireflies, pervaded the entire dome, its epicenter; SayaShin.

[Books Whisper] A musical cacophony sang enchanting whispers, its orchestrator; GurinBare.

[Danger Sense] Black smoke emanating from some shelves beamed converging, its destination; Shapeless.

[Strange Material Search] Strange stream of color drifted spiraling like a storm, its eye; AleyaNala.

[Spirits Aid] Orbs of different colors dashed from one shelf to another and finally retreating, it's master; Mizarin.

Each spell has different names and different characteristics, but all these spells came from a single book, 'Winds Whisper', unlike spells from skill books that are set like stone, grimoire reflects its reader's thoughts and characteristics. It was later found out that there is one out of a hundred chance that readers will obtain the exact same spell with exactly the same characteristics.

The group moved like some pack of wolves, quick and organized, clearing the blinking spots on their maps, some converging over each other. In less than fifteen minutes, the group's Library Map was filled with different colors, over a hundred locations we're marked, captioned with the name of the spell Book they obtained from the location.

"I found a book called 'Special Enchantments For Tailors', what do you think?"-VerBoss

"I found 'Special Enchantments For Antidotes And Poisons', anyone else?"-Shapeless

"I got 'Special Enchantments for Material Refining.'"- SayaShin

"Mine is 'Special Enchantments for Binding.'"-GurinBare

"Haha... 'Special Enchantments For Unbinding'" - AleyaNala

"look, 'Special Enchantments For Blessings', this one is strange: Pure and Impure(Special Enchantments), Spirits Blessings(Special Enchantments)"-Mizarin

"So, which one is our target, really?"- VerBoss

"I believe it's both!" -GurinBare

"..." 

"Think about it, In the description 'Book(s)' a single or multiple books, and it doesn't say the book should contain special enchantments or the book should be about special enchantments, right?... Besides, the reward is unknown, let's just collect everything we can find and get this library work over with." -GurinBare

"I found Material Enhancement(Special Enchantments), Teleportation Array (Special Enchantments), and Hammers Fall (Special Enchantments)"-SayaShin

"Energy Refining (Special Enchantments) and Material Substitution Magic Array (Special Enchantments)."-AleyaNala

"Curses and Blessings (Special Enchantments) and Librarians Secrets (Special Enchantments)."-Shapeless

"Forging Methods (Special Enchantments) and Archaic Spells (Special Enchantments)."-GurinBare

"Material's skill (Special Enchantments) and Growth Enhancement (Special Enchantments), and Awakening (Special Enchantments)."-VerBoss

Everyone enumerated their find while heading to other bookshelves that their markers we're located.

"Everyone if you have collected your books, gather at the same place, and let's start digesting these books." -AleyaNala

"Roger." everyone Bemused. 

It was indeed a possible mode of action, reading and acquiring as many skills as possible in the early stage of the game, would let them grow the skills, rather than later when skill information and priority would take place.

When everyone gathered at the reading table they sat before accepting the quest, books we're piled up almost covering the group's faces.

[Skill: Mineral Quality Appraisal Skill
-A qualitative judgment of Ores and Elemental cores.]

[Skill: Material Strengthening (Sealed)
-You have gained the knowledge of the art of material strengthening, but you have yet to acquire the talent.]

[Skill: Material Skill Awakening
Requirement: Aura Manipulation
-Awaken the talent speaking within an Item or Equipment.]

[Skill: Unearth 
-Detect and collect raw materials from underneath the ground.]

[Skill: Secret Material Synthesis
-Combine similar materials to obtain a higher quality material or raise its rank.]

[Skill: Hiden Magic(Sealed)
-You have gained the knowledge to Engrave or Embroid Magic circles on items or raw material.
Requirement: Magician]

One after another skills were acquired by the team sharing and compiling the different skills they acquire from the books. 

[Skill: Transcendent Eyes (level 0)
- A skill for those who see what is hidden. Only the gods can evade your sight.]

[Skill: No Secrets
- Discern the Characteristics of things.]

Strange skills keep on emerging from the books, most of which are the same for everyone. Ultimately the group obtained a multitude of skills, but not offensive or defensive skills. They collected life style skills, soft skills, travel skills, and strange techniques. Learning magic arrays, ranging from one tribute to multiple attributed magic array.

When they finally finished reading the books, obtaining skills they deem to be useful, waiting for each other to finish the entire collection, some of them started appraising items that they held.

SayaShin, in particular, was engrossed the appraisal of the items that he had stuck in his inventory. He was unable to identify the items not because he didn't try, but because he couldn't. Every time he tried to examine the items, he was treated with the system prompt [Apraisal skill insufficient; material Quality High], but now that he had the skill [Transcendent Eyes] he was able to glean information from the items.

[Spirit Beast Fur(Legendary)
-A remnant of a Druid Spirit Beast]

[Skill Book of Unsealing(Unique)
-A book that contains the array of Unsealing Magic.
-(Two-Time-Use)]

[Spirit Core (Legendary)
A remnant of a Druids Spirit Beast.]

[Strange Book (Oracle's Belt Design)
- Contain the knowledge of crafting a belt(Special)]

While Saya shin was examining the items on his bag, Mizarin who everyone was waiting for to finish her study, shortly closed the book and said: "Okay!... Let's submit our quests."
 
With her exclamation, the group stood and went to the reception desk.

What is it that keeps you alive?

What is it that wakes you up in the morning?

Why do you get out of bed?

Existential question’s that only a few can answer in the length of a breath.
-----------------------------------------------

It has been 200 years since the greatest change in society. A change from education inside classrooms into virtual reality. It is now a transition to a world where anyone can learn anything, and obtain any skill that would usually cost you more than an electric bill.

A pair of childhood friends; Sai Sherman And Izen Miray, both scholarly adulting individuals are about to venture into the new world through a game called CELESTIAL. They try their best to prepare to survive the challenges that the world will bring, adventuring in the virtual reality world they search their calling, cultivate their talents, and meet people good and bad along the way. 

What changes will this life of searching bring these two hatchlings that yearn to fly out of their nest’s, and longing to see the world beyond? How will these two answer these questions of life? When will they truly be prepared? What keeps them living?

Join them in their search for the meaning of life...
-----------------------------------------------

How about you?

Have you asked yourself: What is “My Life Support?”

"Filverel, are you- My fellow disciple, going to support me on my cause? Are you going to make this world great again?" I rose from my seat and asked Filverel with flames in my eyes.
"I am! I am going to help you build this dream. I am going to be there whenever you need me!" Filverel also rose from his seat and was drank with zeal.
"Good, Filverel. I knew you would as soon as I heard the Master's praises about you. So, I considered you when I was planning." I said with a nod. As soon as I mentioned Master's praises, Filverel turned into a little girl praised by their crush.
"These are for you," I said, taking out two notebooks from my storage. I passed one first, "This is mine. On that notebook are the alchemical experiences I had when I was studying all around the world. When I showed them to Master, he accepted them to be unique and might be the cause for my swift rise. He is going to study them further to implement them in outer space, so they are extremely precious." I lied through my teeth and passed the notebook. I noted them down according to the memories I acquired. But they were indeed unique to Witch Queen.
"Than- Thank you, Miles." Filverel's hands were shaking when he accepted the notebook. He was dying to take a peek, but I was holding another notebook so, he had to listen to me more.
"As you know, Filverel, the exchange has to be made with information. I gave you my lifetime experiences, and in return, you have to share something with some value." I said and looked out of the window. "There is no useless information, and information is not gold. Yet information has grades. What I gave you is key to the success of alchemical breakthrough, and in return, information with the same value should be traded."
"Yes, yes, of course. Please forgive my rudeness. I just dazzled by the grace you have shown. Is there anything, in particular, you want to know. As the Master of the Association, I have access to much unique information." Filverel said, still holding the notebook like a priceless artifact.
"My Master and I have something in common, to be honest. It was another reason why Master took a fancy on me." I said as I was speaking something trivial. "I am longing to discover the secrets of cultivation and studying different breakthroughs from Level 10 to Level 11. Do you think you can fulfill my wishes?"
"Of course, as a Level 32 being, I had studied on the subject when I was younger. I have tons of books about it." Filverel said and took out a ring from a safe hidden behind the library. "These are all the information I have on breaking through from 10 to 11 and 20 to 21."
I took the ring without reservation and looked inside it. There were close to 100 books inside. Jackpot! 
"Good. I see you are honest when it comes to trade, Filverel. Master wasn't wrong about you." I said as I rose from my seat and passed the second notebook, "This is from Master and has pill formulas and way to reduce timing on commonly known pill making. Since you gave me close to 100 books and My Master's and my dream are related, I will accept the trade, in exchange for two notebooks."
"Thank you, Miles. And please convey my thanks to Master Altair." Filverel also rose from his seat to see me to door. He walked with me all the way to the entrance of the Association, and it gave me another boost in fame.
"Alright then, Filverel. I will see you at the auction tomorrow night." I said without keeping my voice down. Everyone around us heard how I called the Master of the Alchemy Association. 
"Right, take care of yourself, Miles." Filverel, oblivious to the eyes around us because of two notebooks lying on his desk, responded absentmindedly.
I left the street and found an alley to disappear, then found my way home. When I arrived home through a secret tunnel, I hastily removed the books Filverel handed over to me.
"Secret of cultivation is as old as the universe we are living in. When the first sentient beings discovered the cores and the elements, animals, and beast were cultivating instinctively. But how could these beasts were leveling up without the requirement of developing the elements?
Beast and animals are put under constant surveillance and studied. And it is discovered that the key to passing the first hurdle is being one with the universe and creating something hand to hand.
To key to leveling up to 11 from 10 is, drawing a new element from the universe and merging it with the existing element."
I read the first book with my mouths agape. There were many things I didn't know of before leaving the Temple. Because of its closed borders, there were only little could be learned there. I quickly read others and learned all the information in the books.
"What about innate double element users. They are born with two elements and have the combo element need to breakthrough. How should they level up from 10 to 11?" After reading more than 50 books, this question formed in my mind. 
"There are exceptions to everything. All beings are born with one element, but rarely, there are some born with two elements." I finally found a book about the question formed in my mind when I was reading the last few. 
"These are occasions can be two-elements awakening or Combo Element awakening.
Two-elements awakening is not a problem, per se. Because being awakened two elements can choose one to mix with the one drove from the universe. 
But Combo Element is another issue. For a long time, those who awakened Combo Elements seen as cursed. Because awakened elements merged and created one already, so it was impossible for them to draw a new one to mix with their element."

What is destiny, you may ask? Well, destiny is an automated program I've created, randomly assigned to the baby born from Mother's and Father's DNA. But sometimes, to enjoy myself, I change the destiny of suppose to be hotshot characters and make their life miserable. I did it, and my Karma got soooo negative, I had to fix it somehow. 'Who am I?' you are asking. I am the one, yes, that one.

Now that I changed the destiny of a supposed to be a successful man, Desmond, I had to give him another chance at life. To null my negative Karma, I gave him some extras, such as a system and stuff. I don't know, it is too complicated. Anyway, I will watch this boy once again, because he always brings surprises. Wanna watch it with me? Bring your own beer, and pay with power stones.


https://discord.gg/cyUphKf

First steps in Chaos
[Personal quest complete: Road to birth
Rewards:
New avatar created
Living world unlocked
100 EXP received
10G received
Exotic weapon blueprint received
new personal quests unlocked]
[Personal quest added: Identity prologue
You have been born into the world of living, born as the child of a prestigious family, you carry the name of 'Shire'. The family is known as one of the forefront families who spread knowledge in Damanik. As their child, you must learn the knowledge by heart so that you may as well spread it.
Objective: Choose>Learn the code of light or the code of life or the code of script.
Reward: 100 EXP, 10S, inner skill unlock]
Looking at the quest added, I sighed. Players are gonna complain that they are not given any clue about what to do to complete the quest.
"pfft.."
Not that we will feed everything by ourselves, go find out! haha, will be fun watching some people be headless chickens hehe. Now then, I am probably in my own room so need to find the useful stuff first. Let's see, what are my clothes?
[Vest of Amar'khan
GS: 30
P.DEF: 150
M.DEF: 200
S.DEF: 25
Light's curtain: Reflect 10% of damage received on any attack up to the maximum of 30% of it's value]
[Pants of Amar'khan
GS: 25
P.DEF: 100
M.DEF: 150
S.DEF: 15
Breeze: Increase movement speed by 5%]
[Boots of Amar'khan
GS: 25
P.DEF: 100
M.DEF: 150
S.DEF: 15
Falling leaves: Decrease falling speed and damage by 5%]
Not bad, let's check my room and see if there's anything useful.
I found this room for my liking. Not too much decoration, but more of useful stuff. I found a bookshelf opposite of my bed, beside which  study desk is there. Although calling it a 'bookshelf' is not correct, since in this civilization, digitization is achieved a long time ago. All the bookshelf has is numbers and selecting that number will allow me to see the content of the book on my HUD. Reading the books allow me to increase my wisdom, even if I don't actually read it. This way to gaining stat point was popular since last century and we used that here as well but if anyone wants to read the books, they can do so without any inconvenience.
I gained a total of 15 points on my wisdom from the books I found here, if someone goes to a library in any civilization, they will gain access to many stat points and skills, given they have the social standing to do so. Not everyone will have good social standing and as such, they will have to earn it by accepting various requests and aiding the natives of the land. Once they have enough reputation among the natives, they will be given a title, like citizenship, which will later upgrade through nobility  which also has different standing and as such. We made sure the procedure will be similar to reality, which it should be, but it also depends on the culture and all, so not all players will face the same difficulty to gain acceptance from the natives.
Looking around I couldn't find too much of useful items, which is quite easily understandable for this family, if it was other big family, a child of their might have some good skill or powerful item or even some evidence of black deeds but for this family, they don't give their children too much strong stuff other than knowledge. I need to go to the family library and use certain books to unlock useful skills myself here. But before that, need to find the inner skill.
*Knock knock*
"Young master, are you up?"
Seems someone came to check up on me.
"Yes, come in."
An old man wearing a tunic robe came inside my room. This kind of robe colored in black and white are robes worn by the servants of this family. Also, the simple the decorations are in the robe, the higher the servant's rank. No one will look down on these servants, each one of them are chosen under careful consideration and are evaluated under different circumstances. Some of them are much more powerful and wise than some actual family members, of course the said members are few of those lazy people who don't love studying. However, one thing is true about this family, not a single member are weaklings or have too high sin. The family's education system and growth plan made them as such.
"Young master, master asked you to join him on his study."
This old man, who's name was Sankha as identified by the HUD, spoke to me. The HUD not being able to show any other details credits to two factors. One is that this person is leagues above me in strength and karma, also that I don't possess any identification skill.
"I will be going then grandpa Sankha."
Him and several other older people in the servant ranks are all head butlers and have served the family for a very long time, so the younger generation calls them grandpa and as such. However once we take any official post, we will address them as their post rank as well, as they will for us.
Many of these information are already posted on our main website's encyclopedia about this game, I really hope people actually read that, otherwise they have a very bad time coming ahead.
[Personal quest update: The house head wish to speak to you, as this is the first time you navigate through unexplored zone, your map will be refreshed with the full map of zone: Shire's compound. In future either you will have to explore the entire zone or find ways or skills to aid you in that.]
With that my map showed the place where I am at. The map is designed to be a 3 dimensional one, so it is easier for a player to navigate through the zones, although they are termed as zones by us so that we can divide the map, the entire world is one and you can go anywhere unless you get stuck by any natural or artificial restrictions. I will also need to check the library if we have some scouting skills, map is very much needed for players as they show the hostile presence and without it, getting killed outside is very likely.
I went through the manor with the help of my map and went to the room titled personal study of the head. These rooms can be called mini zones because of the owner, my father here has transcended a certain level of power and can control the area around him easily for certain distance.
Knocking on the door, I entered it as it opened by itself and then closed, part of the automated system that works in the manor. If there is one thing quite fun in here, it is that the face of the sons quite match the father, while the daughter's face match the mother, with exceptions but that is rare. So, my father is like how my avatar will look after like a couple of decades, given that people age here slowly due to the powers and all, but it will be matched with our real world time, since the time here is accelerated.
"You called for my presence, father?"
"Yes, actually, I wanted to call you about this earlier, but your mother wanted to keep you for a few more days. You know that our children have to venture the world and learn from nature itself while also educating those who are in need. You finished your general studies already, so I think it is time for your rite of passage."
"Understood father."
"Don't worry, it's not like you have to go too far right now, as you are not yet that strong, so you should start from our city, aid those in need here and when you are strong enough, fate will present you with the opportunity."
This is something the big families had, and even the families that do not, players who are born there will face situations which will allow them to be independent, after all, which player will just stay at their home here and don't go and explore the world.
"Before going out though, you will require to learn one of our family's 3 inner skills, each of these 3 are derived from the forces of nature and contain the seed of natural force, which will grow with you and allow you to gain insight from nature. Take a look and see which one of them will suit you."
Father took out 3 cases, each of them are quite simple, however, inside of them are century old books. In fact, no one can tell when these books were written because it's been a very long time since they were first handed down. For general skills and such, digitization will allow you to understand them, as you see masters to perform the moves and understand their intent. Inner skills or skills with high rarity however, can't be digitized, or the intent in the very book will be lost and it will no longer be an inner skill.
[Code of light: Born from the understanding of the yang of nature.
Skill: Harnessing glow]
[Code of life: Born from the understanding of life of nature.
Skill: Caressing bud]
[Code of script: Born from the understanding of natural thought.
Skill: Absorbing intent]
"These are the 3 inner skills available in the family which all family members and under circumstances the servants also learn. you can only have one inner skill learnt and wanting to learn another is impossible unless you abolish your cultivation and start new. inner skills don't have grades, as they are inner skills because they are directly derived from the intent of the nature and aid you to understand it and communicate with it, so regardless of which you choose, you will end at the same point. It's only which path you take, as every path takes you to the pinnacle, only one is more suitable to you than the other."
[Personal Quest update:
Choosing any one of the inner skill will be precursor of your class, please choose which type of class you wish to take.
Code of light: Yang nature, aggressive type, choice for main damage dealer.
Code of life: Support type choice, main healer type.
Code of script: Manipulator type choice, main crowd control type support, secondary type for any role.
Weapon of choice do not matter for either of the 3.]
I already had my choice, so I took the code of script. Opening the book, the pages were filled with words, however the intent behind them drag me in an illusion of a world filled with words. Word being spoken and actions being taken, I couldn't hear them but could feel them. These illusions are the highest grade of the respective inner skill, they show you what you can become, for me, my words manipulate reality.
[Personal quest complete: You have received your inner skill, now it is up to you to explore the wonders of nature.
Received: 100 EXP, 10S, inner skill: Absorbing intent]
[Absorbing intent: Listen to the sounds of nature, it is the intention of nature as it tells what it will do, only, not everyone understands it.
Passive generation of inner skill by 10%(+/-10% depending upon location) per hour.
Listening to the voice: Actively listening to the words of the nature grants generation of skill progress.
Word: Words of powers can be learnt by listening and comprehending the intent behind the words of nature. Current word count: 0.
Voice: Words spoken will have influence upon all substances.
Skill level: 1
Progress: 0]
Most of the inner skills have passive generation unless they belong to a special type of intent that can't be found in normal places, which will weaken or strengthen depending upon my location, the closer I am to my element, the more the generation will be.
"Son, it is time for you to meditate upon the intent and prepare for your rite. You will generally not get any aid from us unless it is something you can't handle at all, which should not happen, but just in case. Go now and prepare, you can take the necessities from our home during this time, but places like the library will be closed to you unless you have given enough contribution or have passed the rite. go."
"Yes father, have a good day."
Now is the preparation phase, I can access most of the facilities now before I leave, so I'll take this chance to learn some useful skills, it'll be a while since I will be able to get in the library after all.

Chaos is the name of the new MMO in town, one that is based on VR. The developers have worked hard to replicate the reality onto an MMO environment. Humanity hopes to learn of unknown through the help of this game to save earth from dying and advance themselves from an insignificant race to the rulers. The Dev team has prepared a team of competent members to venture in the game to contribute to the cause, we follow the story of such a member!
Throughout the story, I will take the opinion of the readers and should I find any suggestion great and interesting, I will figure out a way to include it in the story.
All the names of person and character are fictional and have no relation with their real counterparts should they exist.
Any reference from existing copyright material will be purely a reference and under no circumstance is meant for violation.

100 books everyone should read

Books I Have Read

Of Monsters & Magic

Myth Buster in a Fantasy World

Go find the other version

Unusual world

Immortal System

I Found A Planet

My Life Support

Moral System of Harem King!

VRMMO: Chaos

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