The chilling sound of distant howls disrupts the serene quiet, signaling the encroaching nightfall. The sky darkens, casting shadows that seem to creep closer as the night seeps into the forest.

Jane remains close to me, her small frame pressed against mine for comfort. I struggle to find the right words to reassure her, so I simply allow her to rest her head on my lap. Her exhausted body soon finds a moment of solace, and she drifts into a fragile sleep.

My thoughts are in turmoil as I look down at the sleeping girl in my lap. While a part of me knows that escaping with her was the right choice, another part of me is consumed by guilt over abandoning Alex. The conflicting emotions tear at me, a inner battle between conflicting responsibilities.

The goblin's words echo in my mind, 'Keep them alive.' The realization that my brother may still be alive gives me a flicker of hope, even though my decision to leave him weighs heavily on my conscience. Despite the guilt, I hold onto that sliver of possibility, silently vowing to find him.

Sensing the subtle indication of notifications awaiting attention, I quickly summon my status.

You Have Defeated 2x Level 6 Goblin Ranger

You Have Defeated 1x Level 5 Wolf

You Have Defeated 3x Level 8 Goblin Warrior

You Have Defeated 6x Level 5 Goblin Warrior

Level Up 10–11

You Have 5 Free Stats

Quest Complete - Kill 10 Monsters

Reward - Forest Guardian Gloves

A flicker of intrigue washes over me as a disturbance in the air prompts the sudden arrival of a pair of gloves onto Jane’s slumbering head. The soft impact goes unnoticed by the girl, her exhaustion preventing her from stirring. I reach out to retrieve the gloves.

Forest Guardians Gloves - Uncommon - Light weight gloves, made to blend in with the surrounding forest. Set item. +5 Dexterity

The gloves are a similar hue of emerald green to my attire, their soft leather gleaming with intricate patterns of twining leaves etched onto their surface. A subtle hum seems to resonate from the material, an air of magic surrounding them.

With a sense of urgency, I slip on the gloves, feeling the supple leather envelope my hands. There’s an immediate sense of comfort, as if the gloves respond to my touch, molding to the shape of my fingers. A surge of energy thrums through my hands, tingling my fingers as I flex them, experimenting with the movement.

I somberly nod to myself, unable to find an ounce of joy within the information. The regret and self-doubt bubble within me, whispering thoughts of inadequacy. If only I were stronger, faster, perhaps I could have done more to aid Alex.

I meticulously weigh my options for allocating my free stat points. Dexterity has proven to be incredibly beneficial so far, granting me an edge in speed and agility. However, a flicker of ambition stirs within as I consider the potential of maximizing my mana circuit's potential. Increasing the duration and capacity of my mana circuit would not only enhance my dexterity but also amplify my overall strength.

As my mana courses through my being, I sense the untapped power that resides within it. A subtle but certain energy whispers of possibilities yet unexplored. To harness this potential fully, I recognize the need to delve deeper, to learn and master the secrets of mana manipulation.

With a deep breath, I make the decision, allocating my 5 points to mana. The shift in my core is immediately tangible; mana eagerly seeps into my being, expanding my mana pool with newfound greed. The sensation is peculiar yet exhilarating, like a thirst being slaked beyond measure.

A fire ignites within me, fueled by an intense desire for power. As I observe the flow of mana within my body, I am filled with certainty – this is the path to greater strength. My determination hardens, this is how I’ll find my brother. I just need more.

Recalling the formidable presence of the hulking goblin, I am met with the cold reality – my current strength is insufficient to face it head-on. The memory of its towering stature and imposing physique serves as a stark reminder of the gulf in power between us.

Determination flares within me once more, fuelled by a mixture of anger and hatred. The image of the hulking goblin, its imposing figure seared into my memory, serves as both motivation and a target for my growing strength. "I'll catch up, and when I do, I'll make you pay thrice over for the pain you've inflicted," I silently vow.

I decide to check my status, now I’ve distributed my free points.

Status

Name: Balin Tellis

True Name: N/A

Trait: Mana Circuit

Class: Ranger

Level: 11

Stats:

Strength - 8

Dexterity - 35 + 10

Constitution - 16

Mana - 25

Skills:

Mana Infusion - Channel Mana into an object and infuse it with your power

Silent Movement - Move silently to avoid detection by enemies

Quest - Discover The Demi-Humans Plans (Unknown)

Quest - Kill 50 Monsters (Award - Gear)

With a click of the interface, I close my status and turn my attention inward, focusing on the energy flowing through me. Still vigilant for any potential threats, I start to experiment with my mana, seeking to understand its intricacies and potential.

The hours stretch silently into the night, and I remain steadfast on watch, my gaze vigilant for any signs of danger. Despite the fatigue that begins to creep in, I maintain my position, my body serving as a bulwark of protection. The small red-haired girl sleeps quietly, her head resting on my lap, a fragile innocence amidst the danger that surrounds us.

As the first golden rays of sunlight trickle through the trees, the night finally gives way to the new day. I notice the passage of time, realizing that I've spent the entire night awake, vigilant and alert for any signs of danger. The fatigue from the restless night begins to settle in, but I push through it, determination fueling my resolve.

Any thought of rest is quickly pushed aside as the realities of the situation at hand sink in. With the realization of the imminent dangers lurking among the trees, I can't allow myself to let down my guard. Exhaustion threatens to cloud my focus, but I push through, knowing I need to remain vigilant, ready for whatever may come.

As the first stirrings of consciousness rouse Jane, she slowly lifts her head from my lap, stretching her small body with a wide yawn. Her eyes flutter open, still heavy with sleep, and she blinks a few times, taking in the early morning surroundings.

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A pang of guilt and sympathy fills me as I watch Jane slowly awaken. The realization that she's lost everything, forced to place her trust in a near stranger in the heart of the forest, weighs heavily on my conscience. I silently promise myself to protect her, no matter what.

I break the silence, gently addressing Jane. "We should head back," I say, my voice barely above a whisper. "Let's look for any survivors."

As Jane nods silently, her eyes betraying her fear, I offer my reassurance. "It's okay," I assure her, my voice steady and confident. "I won't let anything hurt you as long as I'm here. I promise." The words come out more as a solemn vow than a mere statement.

She replies in a soft whisper, "Promise?" As she wraps her small arms around me in a tight embrace, I feel the warm dampness of her tears seeping through my tunic, a physical manifestation of her fear and vulnerability. I nod, silently reaffirming my vow to protect her.

We stealthily descend from our perch in the tree, our feet touching the forest floor among the sea of scattered red leaves. The vibrant colors stand out against the dark foliage, their contrast almost unnatural. The air is still and quiet, broken only by the soft crunch of leaves beneath Jane’s boots.

With practiced ease, I begin tracing our path back to the battlefield where the carnage of the battle unfolded. The return journey is marked by silent determination, my senses attuned to any signs of danger as we push through the foliage.

I pause suddenly, my hand raised as I catch the distant sound of howling wolves. I signal for Jane to stop, her wide eyes watching me intently. The wolves' calls carry through the trees, a sinister presence lurking in the surrounding forest.

Swiftly scooping Jane into my arms, I rush towards the nearest tree, seeking refuge in its branches. I climb with practiced ease, hauling ourselves up to a safe perch in the tree's upper boughs. Balancing on a sturdy limb, I scan the surroundings for any signs of approaching danger.

My gaze fixated on the three goblin riders that emerge into my line of sight, a surge of rage burns within me as memories of their attack flood my mind. The sight of their distorted features and their smug grins fuels my desire for revenge.

As if propelled by some primal force, I feel mana surging through me, like a storm gaining strength and speed. My mana circuit abruptly activates, and a rush of power cascades through my body, coursing through my veins like molten fire.

Reason gives way to the powerful surge of emotions coursing through me. The image of my brother, bloodied and injured, replays in my mind, fueling a burning desire for vengeance. Even with Jane in my arms, caution is drowned out by the primal urge to confront the goblins below.

I set Jane down, balancing her on a branch, her small frame dwarfed by the sturdy limb. She looks at me, her wide eyes reflecting a mixture of fear and fascination. However, as our gazes meet, I notice her recoil slightly, a flicker of shock crossing her face. I'm lost in my anger.

With a silent grace, I descend from the tree, landing on the forest floor with the quiet precision. My footsteps make no sound on the carpet of leaves as I slowly approach the goblin riders.

My hand twitches towards my bow, a fleeting impulse in my rage-fueled state. But my anger takes over, driving me to draw my sword instead. The weapon slides from its sheath with a metallic whisper, gleaming in the dappled sunlight that filters through the foliage.

Every fiber of my being screams for the satisfaction of close combat, to feel the life drain from these goblins with my own hands. I push forward, my steps quickening as the desire for revenge compels me closer to the goblin riders.

The growling of one of the wolves breaks the silence of the forest, its keen senses catching my scent. Its head turns towards me, nostrils flared and teeth bared. The reaction sets my rage on fire, the realization that my presence has been detected only fueling my determination to confront the riders.

With a surge of power from my activated mana circuit, my body feels alive, energized with the flow of mana. My dexterity soars through me, like a coiled spring ready to release its tension. In that moment, I explode into action, my movements a blur of fluid grace and unleashed rage.

My sword sinks into the flesh of the wolf, but it doesn’t sever its head as intended. However, the wound is deep enough to send the animal into a frenzy of pain and rage.

The goblin rider, struggling to control his wounded wolf, swings his weapon at me in a wild and uncontrolled manner. I barely manage to dodge, my reflexes heightened by my mana-infused state.

My sword darts forward with deadly accuracy, narrowly blocked by the goblin's makeshift defense, but the sheer force of my attack is enough to send the rider toppling off his wounded mount.

The enraged wolf lunges at me, teeth bared and ready to bite. But my blade slips under its jaw before it can make contact, surging upward and cleaving through its skull. The impact nearly rips the sword from my grasp.

The impact of the falling wolf sends me toppling to the ground, its weight knocking me off balance. I land hard on the forest floor, the air momentarily knocked out of my lungs.

The remaining goblin riders react quickly, redirecting their wolves towards me. The massive animals charge forward, their eyes filled with anger and hunger.

I tear my sword from the fallen wolf's body, regaining my footing as a fresh surge of mana courses through me. With sword in hand, I stand my ground, waiting for the charging wolves and their riders to approach.

They attack simultaneously, the wolves lunging forward, teeth bared and ready to tear into me. But I move with uncanny agility, sliding beneath their attacks and lashing out with my blade as I pass by.

My sword cleaves through flesh and bone, shearing off the wolf's back paw in a single brutal blow. The wolf yelps in pain, its howl echoing through the air as it stumbles and falls.

The first goblin suddenly appears before me, its blade arcing down towards me with alarming speed. My reflexes and skill kick in just in time, my own blade rising to parry the attack, narrowly blocking the deadly blow.

As I roll back to my feet, I find myself facing another charging wolf. Its snarling jaws and snapping teeth are mere feet from my face.

I raise my blade to block the wolf's biting jaws, but the sheer force of the animal's charge sends me flying backward. I crash to the ground, the impact knocking the breath from my lungs.

As I rise to my feet, I survey the scene. Two of the goblins are on the ground, their mounts either dead or injured. One goblin is still in the saddle, while the wolf with the severed leg lumbers towards me, trying to get within striking distance.

I charge towards the injured wolf, determined to end its suffering. However, its movement is sluggish and slow due to its grievous wound. As it lunges at me, I easily dodge to the side, avoiding its weakened attack.

My blade sinks deep into the wolf's hide, eliciting a painful howl from the animal. Without hesitation, I pull my blade free, blood splattering across my body as the wolf slumps to the ground, lifeless.

The two goblins on foot, armed with their improvised weapons, attack me simultaneously. Despite their primitive weaponry, they press the assault with determination.

I manage to deflect one of the goblin's attacks, but the other connects with its heavy mace. The impact jars me, the pain radiating down my arm.

I shake off the shock of the blow, pain searing through my injured limb. I struggle to use my left arm, it hangs limply at my side. The goblins continue their assault, sensing my injury.

With my grip on my sword firm and my injured arm hanging uselessly, I manage to lash out, my enhanced body moving quicker than the goblins can react. My sword glides through the air, cleaving across the nearest goblin's stomach.

The goblin stumbles, the wound in its stomach gushing blood. Its makeshift weapon falls from its hands as it collapses to the forest floor, bleeding out.

In a split second, the wolf seizes the opportunity, lunging at me while I'm distracted by the fallen goblin. Its sharp teeth sink into my left shoulder, pain shoots through me as it latches on.

With the wolf's jaws locked around me, the rider swings its corroded sword, its intent to end my life clear in its twisted expression.

A primal rage surges through me, fueled by adrenalin and determination. With a raw strength born of desperation, I tear my injured arm free from the wolf's jaws, the action causing new, deep gouges in my shoulder.

I dart to the side, my reflexes heightened by the pain and fury coursing through me, evading the goblin's blow by mere inches.

I swing my sword at the wolf, but my wounded shoulder restricts my movement, and the blow doesn’t connect with enough force to do serious damage.

A surge of mana courses through me, matching the beat of my frantic heart, and I channel the energy into my sword. The blade begins to glow softly, pulsing with blue light as mana flows into it, amplifying its power.

The last goblin on the ground lunges forward, its crude weapon poised to strike me.

My sword rises to defend against the goblin's attack, meeting the crude weapon in a clash of steel. But the force behind my strike is immense, powered by the rush of mana and my own determination. My blade cleaves through the goblin's weapon and keeps going, slicing the goblin in half, leaving it lifeless on the forest floor.

I feel the power surging through my sword as it glows and hums with energy, but I sense my mana beginning to diminish. I know I need to act quickly to end this fight before my reserves run dry.

The final wolf and rider circle me, their movements cautious as they size me up. The wolf's growls reverberate through the forest, its guttural noises adding to the tension in the air.

We move together, the wolf lunging forward in a swift and calculated attack. I react with lightning-fast speed, sliding under its charge and driving my sword upward into its soft underbelly. Blood rains down over me as my blade finds its mark, slicing through its flesh.

The rider tumbles from the wolf, landing in a heap on the ground. I rise to my feet and face him, my body tense and ready for the final confrontation.

The goblin rider charges at me, its weapon raised and determination in its eyes. I stand my ground, my own sword at the ready, my injured left arm hanging limp and bleeding.

The rider swings its crude weapon, but my mana-enhanced senses make its movements seem comically slow. I effortlessly dodge the blow, sidestepping the attack with a grace that belies my injured state.

I feel my mana reserves depleting and the strain on my body begins to tell. Realizing it's time to end this, I gather my remaining strength.

The goblin attempts another attack but I move with lightning speed, my blade lashing out in a precise strike that decapitates the creature. Its lifeless body crumples to the ground, joining the fallen bodies of its comrades.

I stand there, surrounded by the carnage of the battle. My body is splattered with blood - some of it mine, most of it from the fallen enemies. The air is thick with the scent of death and the acrid odour of guts and blood.

As the adrenaline and anger fades, I stand there, my breathing slowing as the reality of the fight sets in. The forest is eerily quiet now, the only sound being my own ragged breaths.

A small voice interrupts the silence, breaking through the aftermath of the battle.

"Can you help me down now?"