Chapter 4: First Encounter

The stampede-like rumbling jolted Liam awake, and he quickly realized that the source of the noise was a massive wild boar charging toward their camp. The creature was much larger than any normal boar, with tusks that gleamed menacingly in the early morning light. Panic surged through the group, and they scrambled to their feet, trying to figure out what to do.

As Liam narrowly avoided the boar's initial charge, Kevin, driven by adrenaline, rushed forward and used his Brawler skill to deliver a powerful punch to the boar's side. The impact sent the boar staggering, but it quickly recovered and retaliated, its sharp tusks slicing into Kevin's shoulder. He cried out in pain and fell to the ground, clutching his wounded arm.

In that moment, the rest of the group seemed to vanish from Liam's sight. Fear and determination battled within him, as he realized that his survival depended on his own resourcefulness and quick thinking. He spotted a large stick nearby and, in a desperate attempt to distract the boar, picked up a rock and hurled it at the beast. The rock struck the boar's flank, drawing its attention to Liam. As the boar turned and charged towards him, Liam grabbed the stick, planting it firmly into the ground, and braced himself for the impact.

In that instant, Liam felt a surge of warmth and energy coursing through him, as he unlocked a new skill

{You have acquired "Weapon of Opportunity"}

Upon focusing on the skill, a system message appeared in his mind, providing a description of the newfound skill:

[Weapon of Opportunity: You can quickly adapt to your surroundings and create makeshift weapons from objects found in the environment. The effectiveness of these weapons depends on your creativity and the materials available.]

Liam focused his newfound power on the stick, making it stronger and more durable. The charging boar impaled itself on the stick, but the fight was far from over. With a strength born of desperation, Liam held onto the stick with all his might, gritting his teeth as the boar thrashed and struggled. His muscles ached, and his heart pounded in his chest, but he refused to give up.

As he clung to the stick, Liam felt a profound sense of loneliness and fear, yet he also felt a fierce determination to protect his newfound friends. He knew that he couldn't rely on anyone else in this moment – it was up to him to bring down the massive creature.

Finally, the boar's movements slowed, and it let out a final, pitiful groan before collapsing to the ground, lifeless. Suddenly, Liam's friends reappeared as if out of thin air. Confused and relieved, he later learned that Jake, the illusionist, had cast a quick illusion to hide them from the enraged boar during the entire ordeal. They stared at Liam with a mixture of shock and admiration, as he stood there, panting and trembling from the exhausting battle.

From that point on, the group worked together to harvest meat from the boar and began cooking it over the fire. Ava tended to Kevin's wounds with her Guardian powers, and they all realized the seriousness of the situation. Their world had suddenly become even more dangerous. Their faces were etched with worry and determination, realizing that they needed to be on high alert in this dangerous new world.

As they cooked the boar meat, the group discussed the need to make their base safer. They decided to build a makeshift wall in front of the cave to provide some protection from any other dangerous creatures that might roam the area. Liam, with his Fearless trait and Survivalist skills, took the lead in the construction of the wall. Maria, the biologist, decided to join Liam in gathering materials for the wall, albeit hesitantly. While the others set out to explore their surroundings, Liam and Maria ventured into the nearby woods to collect large branches and fallen logs.

During their journey, Liam noticed that he felt less tired and worn out, despite the demanding labor. As they walked, he mused to himself that it was likely due to his Endurance skill and overall increased level, which allowed him to push his body harder and for longer periods of time without feeling as exhausted.

As they worked together, Liam and Maria got to know each other better. Maria, who seemed timid initially, began to open up as they talked. She shared more about her life as a college student, studying biology and environmental science. She talked about her passion for the natural world and her dream of one day becoming a researcher or a professor. Liam found her enthusiasm contagious, and it reminded him of his twin sister, who was also driven by her passion for knowledge.

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While they collected the materials, Liam encouraged Maria to discuss different methods for building the wall. With a little coaxing, she gradually became more comfortable sharing her ideas. They eventually settled on creating a barrier of large branches and logs, which they would stack against each other and reinforce with smaller branches and twigs. They worked diligently, using Liam's Survivalist knowledge to help guide them in constructing a stable and secure wall.

Upon their return to the cave, Liam and Maria found Ava and Jake waiting for them. With the combined efforts of the group, they managed to construct a makeshift wall that would offer them some protection from the elements and potential threats. While it was far from perfect, it was a significant improvement to their shelter.

Next, they decided to explore their surroundings to gather more information about the area. They split into pairs: Liam and Maria ventured in one direction, while Ava and Jake went in the opposite direction. Kevin, still recovering from his injury, remained at the cave to keep the fire going and guard their temporary base.

The environment was harsh, with deep snow and biting cold winds. Despite the difficult conditions, Liam and Maria discovered a small stream nearby, which had not yet frozen over, providing a reliable water source. They also found several edible plants and berries that were able to survive in the cold climate, which they collected to supplement their food supply. Maria, having studied biology, was able to identify which plants were safe to eat.

When Liam and Maria returned to the cave, they were surprised to find a group of around 20 people approaching from a distance. The group appeared well-organized and disciplined, moving with purpose and caution. As they drew closer, it became clear that they were not a random assortment of survivors but rather a cohesive unit. Among them were men and women of various ages and backgrounds, all seemingly bound by a common goal.

At the head of the group was a tall, imposing figure. The man, named Victor, wore a set of armor that seemed to be fashioned from the materials available in this frozen world. His piercing gaze and stern expression were undoubtedly intimidating, giving him an air of authority and control. Despite this, Liam, with his Fearless trait, found himself unfazed by Victor's presence.

As the group came to a halt just outside the cave, the leader stepped forward and addressed Liam directly. "Greetings, I am Victor, the leader of this group," he said, his voice firm and commanding. "It appears that you and your friends have managed to survive in this harsh environment so far. Impressive."

As Victor approached Liam and his friends to discuss the possibility of joining forces, two other members of his group walked alongside him. Both were armed with makeshift weapons, and their attire suggested that they were skilled in the art of survival, much like Victor himself.

Victor was an imposing figure, standing over six feet tall, with a broad-shouldered build that gave him a powerful presence. His dark hair was cropped short, and his chiseled features were accentuated by a neatly trimmed beard. His eyes were a deep, intense blue, and they seemed to possess an unwavering focus that demanded attention. The armor he wore appeared to be crafted from the bones and hides of the creatures that inhabited the frozen wasteland, providing both protection and a clear testament to his adaptability and resourcefulness.

As Victor and his companions neared the cave, Liam couldn't help but notice the air of authority and competence that surrounded them. Their group seemed well-prepared and disciplined, and it was evident that they had been navigating the challenges of the harsh environment with considerable success.

Liam eyed Victor cautiously, but he couldn't deny that there was something intriguing about this new group. "Thank you," Liam replied, trying to gauge Victor's intentions. "We've been doing our best to adapt and learn. My name is Liam, and these are my friends: Ava, Kevin, Jake, and Maria."

Victor nodded in acknowledgment. "We've been traveling through this frozen wasteland, searching for others like us, those who are willing to band together and combine our skills for a better chance at survival. Our group consists of various classes and abilities, and we believe that by working together, we can overcome the challenges this new world presents."

He then looked Liam directly in the eyes, offering him a proposal. "I would like to extend an invitation for you and your friends to join our group. Together, we can be stronger and better equipped to face whatever dangers lie ahead. What do you say?”

Liam’s stats:

Level: 2

Race: Human

Class: Survivalist

Profession: N/A

Skills: Endurance, Weapon of Opportunity

Traits: Fearless