Orientation

Arsen made slight adjustments to his physique and appearance, aiming to maintain a low profile. Additionally, before embarking on their Breakthrough Online journey, players were required to visit Kalin, the NPC who provided guidance on the game's intricacies. However, Kalin could only assist a limited number of players, while other NPCs took charge of the remaining players. As of now, millions of players were playing Breakthrough Online, making it impossible for a single NPC to handle such a vast number of players.

_

Arsen materialized in a sprawling area filled with players, all clad in distinct brown robes and equipped with weapons that suited their chosen classes.

As he opened the function screen with the intention to add Jack to the game and chat with him, Arsen was disappointed to discover that the option to add players was not yet available. "I suppose we won't be able to meet in-game after all," he thought to himself.

As he observed the scene, Arsen's attention was captivated by the sight of a middle-aged man making his way towards the platform, drawing the gaze of numerous players. It was none other than Kalin, recognizable by his golden-brown hair, blue and red-plated armor, and a flowing white cape. There was an undeniable aura of danger emanating from him that commanded attention.

A heavy silence descended upon the room, stifling any conversation as the players held their breath. The NPC cleared his throat, breaking the stillness, and finally addressed the gathered players.

"Welcome, Immortals, to this extraordinary world!" Kalin's voice reverberated throughout the room, capturing everyone's attention. "I am here to guide and enlighten you on the wonders of this realm. Without further delay, let us embark on our journey together!"

The world sprawled out before them, stretching across vast continents that housed diverse races and factions, each with their own territories and dominions.

To become more powerful, immortals had to embark on quests and vanquish formidable monsters. By successfully completing quests, immortals would be rewarded with valuable items, experience points, and other benefits. The difficulty of quests varied and was classified into five categories: Common, Uncommon, Rare, Special, and Epic. Common quests were relatively straightforward and accessible to all players. Uncommon quests posed a slightly greater challenge, requiring more skill and preparation. Rare quests were even more challenging, testing the mettle of experienced players. Special quests were exceptionally difficult and required a high level of skill, strategy, and teamwork to overcome. Finally, Epic quests were the most daunting trials, reserved for the bravest and most powerful immortals. The chance of encountering an Epic quest was incredibly rare, making it a truly legendary feat for those who succeeded.

Defeating monsters played a vital role in the game, as it enabled immortals to earn experience points and level up their characters. Additionally, monsters dropped valuable items, including monster cores. These monster cores could be converted into various currencies within the game's economy. The basic currency was Bronze, followed by Silver, Gold, and the highest tier, Platinum. Each currency held different values and could be used for various purposes, such as purchasing equipment, consumables, and other in-game resources. Collecting monster cores and efficiently managing one's currency became essential strategies for immortals seeking to enhance their characters and progress in the game.

100 Bronze coins= 1 gold coin

100 Gold coins= 1 Silver coin

100 Silver coins= 1 Platinum coin.

In the world of Breakthrough Online, the value of currency was not solely determined by its material composition or scarcity, but also by its practical applications within the game's economy. While Gold coins held a higher value in terms of rarity and overall worth, Silver coins held a special significance due to their use in crafting magical weapons and equipment. The intricate enchantments and magical properties imbued in Silver and Platinum made them sought-after materials among skilled craftsmen and enchanters. The demand for Silver coins for crafting purposes drove their value higher than that of Gold coins, as their scarcity and usefulness in creating powerful gear made them essential commodities for players looking to enhance their characters' capabilities.

Indeed, the prospect of earning real-world currency through in-game activities was a major attraction for players in Breakthrough Online. The game's innovative integration of a virtual economy with real-world financial benefits created a unique opportunity for players to monetize their gaming skills and efforts. By accumulating valuable in-game assets, such as rare items, high-level equipment, or sought-after monster cores, players could sell them on external marketplaces or trade them with other players for real-world money. This feature not only added a new level of motivation and excitement to the gameplay experience but also provided players with a potential source of income. It blurred the boundaries between gaming and work, as players could effectively turn their passion for gaming into a profitable endeavor.

"How many coins I could get after killing a monster?" One of the players asked.

Kalin shifted his gaze in the direction from which the voice had emanated. "It all boils down to the type of monster you've slain," he remarked, his voice resonating with a deep timbre. "Currently, defeating two Ordinary monsters will earn you a solitary bronze coin." He paused momentarily before continuing, "However, please keep in mind that the exchange rate is not set in stone and is subject to fluctuation. It could be a one-to-one or even a one-to-three ratio in the future. And naturally, high-tier monsters hold much greater value."

Within this game, monsters were categorized into distinct tiers, starting with the Ordinary classification for creatures of levels 6-10 and Chief levels 11-15. This was followed by the Primitive and Mutated Monster categories, with Lord Monsters being just one tier higher. However, it is important to note that the Lord rank is not the highest echelon within the game's monster hierarchy.

At this juncture, a cacophony of excited chatter erupted as individuals eagerly discussed their intentions to gather monster cores, oblivious to the perilous nature of their quarry. However, Kalin quickly silenced the commotion, as he had yet to impart vital information to the group.

He went on to elaborate on the dungeon system, which consisted of 5-man, 10-man, 20-man, and other variations, allowing players to choose their preferred level of difficulty. The difficulty levels were categorized into four distinct tiers: Ordinary, Uncommon, Hard, and Inferno, each presenting a unique set of challenges. Kalin emphasized that the disparity between the Hard and Inferno difficulties was like night and day.

As Kalin drew his address to a close, he added some parting words. "It is worth noting that each of you will be transported to different kingdoms and continents, expanding the scope of your adventure. Additionally, we have provided each of you with items that will aid you on your journey. Make sure to inspect your inventory to see what you have received."

10 pieces of bread (Common-rank)

- Upon consuming the food, players could recover 12% of their health power every 5 seconds, and lasted for 30 seconds.

Restriction(s): The player should sit while consuming the food or not be attacked by the monster. Otherwise, the healing effect would be wasted.

Orange Juice (Common rank)-

- The player will be relaxed after drinking the orange juice that could regenerate their mana and stamina by 12% every five seconds, and last for 30 seconds.

Return Scroll

- it can be used to teleport the player to a safe location immediately.

Restriction(s): it can't be used while getting attacked and inside within the ten meters radius where the monster is potentially roaming around.

Kalin was on the verge of transporting all the immortals to their assigned locations when a player raised their hand and interjected. The individual in question was none other than Arsen, who had concealed his face beneath a nondescript brown robe.

"What will happen to us if we die?"

Silence once again descended upon the gathering, as everyone was eagerly anticipating the opportunity to explore the game world and collect monster cores. The question posed by Arsen had not occurred to anyone, so they listened intently to what he had to say.

Kalin's face contorted into a malicious grin as he responded to Arsen's query. "As you are all immortals, death is but a temporary setback, and you will revive once again. However, be warned that there is a penalty for dying. Any player who falls in battle will suffer a loss of one level and will be required to pay a significant amount of monster cores as a consequence."

Indeed, such a penalty was a reasonable measure to discourage players from recklessly throwing themselves into battle. With the risk of losing a level and the added burden of paying monster cores, players would have to think twice before engaging in combat without proper preparation or strategy.

Arsen seemed to comprehend the situation, but there was still one question lingering in his mind. "One last thing," he began. "Could you explain to me the purpose of the body type?"

Kalin let out a chuckle before answering Arsen's question about the body type. "Ah, that," he said. "The body type is simply a means of cultivating and strengthening your physical body, including your bones, limbs, and mind. As you were all summoned to this world, it would be best to focus on cultivating your body in the world where you originated from, rather than in this virtual world."

Yes, that was the main idea. While the game could provide a means for players to improve their skills and abilities, it was still essential to prioritize strengthening their physical body in the real world. After all, the game was only a simulation, and it could not replace the benefits of real-life physical training and conditioning.

Kalin looked around and saw that many of the players were raising their hands, eager to ask him questions. However, to his surprise, their queries were not related to the game but rather personal in nature.

I can really become rich with this game?

How I could attract more women?

It's possible to have children in this game?

Kalin furrowed his brow and emanated a terrifying aura that engulfed everyone. Suddenly, the air became heavy and oppressive, making it difficult for them to breathe and stand upright.

What's going on?

Is he mad?

You should not run your mouth!

Luckily, a woman wearing a black robe appeared behind Kalin and whispered something to him, causing him to calm down. Without her intervention, the sea of players might have perished.

Kalin composed himself and issued a stern warning to the assembled players. "This world offers boundless opportunities for wealth, power, and status. But make no mistake: crossing the likes of me or others could lead to a swift and brutal demise!!!"

Flick!

After hearing Kalin's roar, some players were so terrified that they even wet their pants. The intensity of his voice was enough to rupture their eardrums, and they feared for their lives if they stayed any longer. Luckily, Kalin waved his hand, and all of them disappeared from the orientation area, transported to different continents across the world.

Moreover, a woman in a black robe confronted him. "You should not do that, Kalin."

"They are being respectful. If you are not here, I will kill them without thinking twice." Kalin responded, then started to circulate his index finger in a specific location. A red-orange portal appeared in front of him. "Our business here is finished. Let's leave we have an important matter."

---

System: Welcome to the Riverside Town!

Arsen looked at the blue screen in front of him, which introduced the place where he was standing right now. However, he quickly removed the notification and took a look around him. He saw a bustling town filled with houses, stores, and NPCs going about their business. Arsen was impressed by the level of detail in this virtual world; the NPCs looked like real people.

Aside from that, there were some guards wearing full silver-plated armor and armed with spears roaming around. These guards were responsible for keeping this town in peace.

Guard Level 50 Rank 2-Special Lancer

HP:??

Tough...

Arsen was well savvied that the only reason why he can't see the Guard's other information was because of the fact the huge difference in their levels. Moreover, he did not focus on them for too long as he immediately contacted Jack.

"Hey, Jack! Where are you right now?" Arsen asked him after Jack picked up the call.

"I'm at the Stone Town. How about you?"

"I'm at the Riverside Town." He replied.

And all of a sudden, Jack's voice yelling went to his ears. "We have a problem!!! Look at your map!"

"Fuck..." Arsen cursed.