Chapter 9: Strategic Growth!
The wind shrieked past Daniel's ears, a tangible force generated by the sheer velocity of his [Ghoststeps] enhanced escape.
He didn't dare look back, focusing solely on putting distance between himself and the Veridian Constrictor den. His [Aura Sense] painted a retreating picture of the large, cold-blooded signatures that had been converging on the clearing , drawn by the scent of blood, likely enraged by the deaths of their kin. He had pushed his luck, reaped a monumental reward, and gotten out just in time.
He ran for several minutes, the tripled agility granted by [Ghoststeps] allowing him to cover ground at a blinding pace, his feet barely seeming to connect with the springy azure turf.
Only when the subtle tingling of [Aura Sense] confirmed no large life forces were in his immediate vicinity did he finally allow himself to slow, the 10-second duration of the skill expiring, leaving a familiar, slightly deeper fatigue than the old [Adrenal Surge].
He found refuge in a thick grove of tall, crystal-like trees that reflected the soft light of the Verge sky in subtle colors.
Leaning against the cool, smooth surface of one, Daniel finally let out a ragged breath, his chest heaving. His standard-issue grey fatigues were torn in several places, stained dark with sweat and the viscous, dark green blood of the Constrictors.
Bruises were blooming across his arms and ribs where glancing blows had landed, painful reminders despite the invigorating surge of his recent level-up to Level 1.
But beneath the exhaustion and aches, a current of raw power thrummed through him. He felt fundamentally different, stronger, faster, more resilient than the average recruit who had stepped through the Gateway mere hours ago.
He pulled up his Nexus Interface, the cool black band a comforting weight on his forearm, and reviewed his status with a growing sense of awe.
[Daniel Vance - Level 1]
EXP: 51/300 (Next Level requires 300 EXP)