Chapter 17: The purge!
The surge of power from reaching Level 2 was intoxicating. It wasn't just the statistical increase reflected on his Nexus Interface; it was a tangible feeling, a deepening connection to the strange energies of the Astral Verge.
Fatigue melted away, replaced by a humming vitality. Daniel felt coiled, ready.
His Strength (57.1), Vitality (59), and Agility (92.3) were leagues beyond any baseline human, likely surpassing many C-grade Awakened already.
His SSS-Talent, [Soul Assimilation], pulsed with potential, its charge limit increased to a comfortable 15.
He remained concealed within the dense, shimmering foliage, allowing his enhanced senses, particularly the passive hum of [Aura Sense], to map the immediate surroundings.
He could feel the frantic, fearful energy signatures of other recruits moving through the jungle nearby.
Some were returning to designated rally points, battered and bruised, recounting harrowing encounters with Level 1 and 2 creatures.
Others were still pushing deeper, driven by the kill score competition or simple desperation.
As dusk began to paint the nebula-strewn sky in deeper shades of purple and indigo, Daniel watched a small group of recruits stumble back towards the general direction of the initial landing zone.
They were covered in grime and minor wounds, their F-grade gear torn. They passed near his hiding spot, voices hushed but carrying in the still air.
"...saw Vance earlier, just sitting there by those crystal trees. Didn't even look like he'd moved," one muttered, glancing nervously into the shadows.