Chapter 20: Hero

Chapter 20: Hero

Vaelrith's expression hardened with determination. "I'm staying here. I never wanted to go back to my old world. That place was dull and unfulfilling, like a game without a clear ending. People were always judging you if you were too good at something or criticizing you if you weren't good enough. It was a world where mediocrity was the norm and ambition was often met with resentment. Here, in Eldoria, there's purpose, adventure, and a chance to make a real difference. This world is vibrant and full of life, and I can't imagine leaving it behind."

Eldoria was stunned to hear his answer, but she was also happy that Vaelrith chose to stay. "I am very glad you've decided to stay," she said warmly, waving her hand towards Eric. Immediately, Eric began to glow with a gentle light.

Feeling the warmth and comfort of Eldoria's gift, Eric instinctively checked his updated status window:

-----STATUS-----

[Name: Vaelrith]

[Title: Dragon Wolf Lord, The Hero]

[Job Class: Hero ]

[Race: Dragonwolf] [Lord]

[Level: 52/60] [Exp: 5,000/70,000]

[HP: 100%] [MP: 2,000/2,000]

[Strength: 150] [Defense: 130]

[Agility: 150] [Intelligence: 130]

[Vitality: 150] [Free Attributes: 0]

[Element Affinity: Lightning, Nature, Wind, Fire, Earth, Water,]

-----SKILLS-----

[Racial Skills: Pack Coordination, Heightened Senses, Terrifying Presence, Flight, Regeneration]

[Basic Skill: Charge, Stealth, Body Enhancement]

[Advanced Skills: Lightning Magic (Advance), Wind Magic (Advance), Nature Magic (Intermediate)]

[Job Skills: Weapon Mastery, Iron Will, Elemental Adaptation, Elemental Resistance, Elemental Affinity (Fire, Water, Earth, Wind, Lightning), Super Regeneration, Resilient Constitution.]

[Unique Skill: Devour, Nature's Blessing, Storm's Wrath, Leadership Aura]

-----END-----

New Skills:

1. Weapon Mastery: Advanced proficiency with various weapons, enhancing accuracy, damage, and versatility in combat.

2. Iron Will: Unshakable mental fortitude, resisting mental attacks, fear, and psychological manipulation.

3. Elemental Adaptation: Ability to adapt to elemental environments, enhancing resistance to fire, water, earth, air, and lightning.

4. Elemental Resistance: Passive protection against elemental damage, reducing the effectiveness of fire, water, earth, wind, and lightning attacks.

5. Elemental Affinity (Fire, Water, Earth, Wind, Lightning): Natural connection and enhanced abilities with fire, water, earth, wind, and lightning elements.

6. Super Regeneration: Accelerated healing ability, recovering from injuries and magical energy (mana).

7. Resilient Constitution: Enhanced resistance to various poisons, pain, fatigue and extreme environmental conditions, including hot and cold environments.

Job Class: Hero

The "Hero" job class is a rare and legendary role granted to individuals showing exceptional bravery, strength, and leadership. Chosen by gods or through extraordinary events, heroes protect realms with unmatched combat skills, powerful abilities, and strategic acumen. Additionally, heroes are uniquely qualified to become successors to gods, possessing the potential to inherit divine power and responsibilities.

-----

Eldoria's eyes sparkled with pride as she observed the changes in Eric, now Vaelrith. "The path ahead will be challenging, but I have faith in your strength and determination. You have the potential to unite Eldoria and bring peace to this world."

Eric, feeling the newfound power coursing through him, bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Eldoria. I won't let you down. I will protect this world and those I care about."

Eldoria smiled warmly. "Remember, Eric, you are never alone. The bonds you have formed with Elysia and your friends will be your greatest strength. Trust in them as much as they trust in you."

With a final nod, Eldoria waved her hand, and the golden light around Eric began to fade. In an instant, he found himself back in the dungeon. He quickly noticed a magic circle appearing in front of him. Vaelrith smiled and stepped into it, feeling the familiar tug of summoning magic.

-----

Back at the academy, Elysia felt a sudden, intense connection reestablish itself. She could sense Vaelrith once more. Without hesitation, she began the summoning ritual, her hands moving with practiced precision as she called out to him. A magic circle formed before her, glowing with a brilliant light. Moments later, Vaelrith appeared within it, now in his humanoid form.

Elysia's relief was palpable. She ran to Vaelrith, tears streaming down her face, and threw her arms around him, sobbing uncontrollably. Vaelrith stood stunned, not used to seeing this vulnerable side of her. He hesitated for a moment before gently wrapping his arms around her, offering silent comfort.

"Elysia," he said softly, his voice filled with gratitude and warmth. "I'm here. I'm not going anywhere."

Elysia's sobs gradually subsided as she clung to him, her grip tightening as if afraid he might disappear again. "I was so scared, Vaelrith," she whispered, her voice trembling. "I thought I'd lost you too."

Vaelrith gently stroked her hair, his heart aching at her distress. "I'm sorry for worrying you, Elysia. But I'm here now, and I won't leave your side."

The rest of the team watched silently, their expressions a mix of relief and understanding. Aric gave a small nod, his usual grin softened with empathy. Lyra wiped a tear from her eye, while Seraphina's serene smile conveyed her support.

After a few moments, Elysia pulled back, wiping her tears and regaining her composure. "Vaelrith, what happened? Where did you go?"

Vaelrith took a deep breath, preparing to explain, when Professor Elara, who had been observing from a distance, noticed a faintly glowing crest on Vaelrith's hand. Her eyes widened in shock, recognizing the symbol instantly.

"Vaelrith," Professor Elara interrupted, her voice urgent. "I need to speak with you in private. Now!"

Elysia looked confused and worried, but she nodded, understanding that it must be important. Vaelrith glanced at her reassuringly before following Professor Elara to her office.

Once inside, Elara closed the door and turned to Vaelrith, her expression serious. "That crest on your hand," she said, pointing to the glowing symbol. "It's the mark of the goddess, Eldoria. What happened to you?"

Vaelrith recounted his experience in the realm of the gods, meeting Eldoria, and the choice he made to protect the world. He carefully omitted any mention of his origin from another world, aware that this could cause more trouble, especially with another world invading Eldoria. Professor Elara listened intently, her face a mix of awe and concern.

"You've been chosen," she said quietly. "This changes everything. The goddess has marked you as her successor. The power and responsibility that come with this are immense. You must prepare for the trials ahead, Vaelrith."

Vaelrith nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I will do whatever it takes to protect this world and fulfill my destiny."

Professor Elara placed a hand on his shoulder, her expression softening. "You're not alone in this, Vaelrith. You have your friends and allies. Together, you can overcome any challenge. We'll support you every step of the way."

Then her expression turned grave. "However, you must not disclose this information to anyone. We suspect that demon spies have infiltrated the continent, and any knowledge of your status could put you and your friends in grave danger."

Vaelrith's eyes widened in concern. "Can I tell Elysia?" he asked. "She deserves to know, and I trust her completely."

Professor Elara thought for a moment, then nodded. "Yes, you can tell Elysia. But make sure she understands the gravity of the situation and the need for absolute secrecy."

Vaelrith left the office and returned to Elysia and the others, his expression serious yet determined. Elysia and the others gathered around him, their curiosity and concern evident.

"What did Professor Elara say?" Elysia asked, her eyes searching his face for answers.

"What did Professor Elara say?" Aric asked, his eyes searching Vaelrith's face for answers.

Vaelrith took a deep breath, choosing his words carefully. "She didn't have any definitive answers about what happened, but she assured me that we'll continue investigating. It's possible that the Supreme Dungeon's magic interfered in ways we didn't anticipate."

The group nodded, seemingly accepting his explanation, but Elysia's eyes narrowed. She knew Vaelrith too well; there was something he wasn't telling them.

As they made their way out of the academy, Elysia pulled Vaelrith aside. "Vaelrith, we need to talk," she said, her voice firm.

Vaelrith nodded, leading her to a quieter part of the courtyard. "What is it, Elysia?"

"Don't play coy with me," she said, crossing her arms. "I know you're not telling us everything. What really happened?"

Vaelrith sighed, realizing he couldn't hide the truth from her. "I met a beautiful goddess, called Eldoria. She explained a lot about the state of this world and the threat from the demon world. She offered me to become her successor, and I accepted. Now, I am a Hero."

Elysia's eyes widened in surprise. "You... you met a goddess? And now a hero?"

"Yes," Vaelrith confirmed, keeping it as brief as possible. "We also have to be careful because there are demon spies on the continent. That's why Professor Elara warned me not to disclose this information."

Elysia frowned, processing everything. "And you couldn't tell the others because of the demon spies?"

"Exactly," Vaelrith said. "I didn't want to put them at risk. But I trust you, Elysia. I need your help to keep this secret and protect our friends."

Elysia's anger began to dissipate, replaced by understanding and determination. "Alright, Vaelrith. I get it. But next time, don't lie to me or keep me in the dark. We're in this together."

Vaelrith nodded, grateful for her support. "I promise, Elysia. Thank you for understanding."

She sighed, shaking her head slightly. "You always manage to get yourself into the most incredible situations. But I guess that's why we're a team."

As they rejoined the group, Elysia's resolve was stronger than ever. They had a daunting journey ahead, but with Vaelrith's newfound purpose and their unwavering bond, they were ready to face whatever challenges awaited them in the Supreme Dungeon and beyond.