In the heart of a lush medieval forest, a 20-year-old man with pale blue hair, dressed in a medieval black cloth shirt and pants, opens his golden eyes to a world he couldn’t remember.
“W-where am I?” As he slowly rose to his feet, attempting to make sense of his surroundings, a blue virtual pop-up materialized in front of him:
[Notification]
Welcome, those brought to this world must participate in Rebirth Royale, an exciting yet dangerous challenge. Here are the rules:
Rules:
1. *Eliminate or be Eliminated: Engage in combat with both monsters and rival players. Your survival depends on defeating adversaries and claiming their resources.
2. Gold coins: Accumulate coins by defeating opponents and monsters. Use these to unlock powerful abilities, weapons, and enhance your chances of survival.
3. Time Limits: Each Rebirth Royale lasts for a specific time. Survive until the end to reap greater rewards, but beware, as the challenges become more formidable as time progresses.
4. *Respawn Points: If eliminated, participants have a chance to respawn at designated locations. However, respawning consumes valuable resources, so strategic decisions are crucial.
5. Alliances: Form temporary alliances with other participants but trust cautiously. Betrayals and shifting allegiances are common in the Rebirth Royale.
6. Clan Bases: Purchase and defend landmarks to establish clan bases. These bases serve as strategic points for planning, socializing, and coordinating with allies.
7. Unique Worlds: Battle across distinct worlds with varying difficulty levels. Adapt your strategies to the environment, whether it's a serene forest or a chaotic urban landscape.
PLEASE INPUT NAME:________________
“M-my name?” He pondered for a moment before answering: “Tatsuya Ishikawa”
[May the odds be in your favor, and emerge victorious in the thrilling trials of Rebirth Royale!]
With that, the pop-up shattered into wisps of blue gleaming shards before vanishing completely. Without memories to guide him, he faced the daunting prospect of navigating the mysterious world and the perilous Rebirth Royale with little to no support. As he walked along the forest path, his pale blue hair softly blew in the wind. He cautiously looked around, trying to discern any signs of danger.
Without warning, a subtle rustling in a bush caught his attention. That’s when a small blue slime hopped out, blocking his path. It’s gooey body jiggling with a vibrant glow. It looked at the man with large shiny black eyes. The blue-haired man clenched his fists, preparing for his first encounter in the unforgiving trials of Rebirth Royale.
“Tssk, I don’t have any weapons, but a slime shouldn’t be too difficult to handle!” With determination, he charged towards the large blue slime, aiming to punch it head-on. However, as his fist made contact, the squishy body of the slime repelled him, causing him to land on his butt in the dirt.
The slime bounced back, seemingly unharmed. The young man quickly realized that challenges in Rebirth Royale were not to be underestimated. As he got back on his feet, he reassessed his approach, his gaze scanning the surroundings for any advantage. Spotting a large rock nearby, he swiftly made his way toward it. The monster unleashed water blasts from it’s mouth, narrowly missing him as he dodged with nimble movements. Gripping the rock tightly, he waited for the perfect moment.
With the slime preparing for another attack, he seized the opportunity and hurled the rock directly at it’s head. The projectile hit with precision, and the slime disintegrated into a burst of shimmering goo.
“Sigh, seems I beat my first enemy...but just how much stronger can they get if slimes are considered weak?” Tatsuya thought aloud as he watched a golden bar appear above his head, reading: “+5 EXP.” He noticed a tiny sack of coins sitting where the slime had been. Walking over, he slipped the coins into his pocket before continuing his exploration of the large green forest.
As he walked down the winding forest path, his attention was drawn to a peculiar sight—a brown chest with a golden light emanating from it. Intrigued, he approached and cautiously opened it, revealing a small one-handed steel sword inside.
Grasping the sword, he felt a newfound sense of empowerment. With this weapon in hand, he knew he was better equipped to face the challenges that lay ahead. The young man continued his journey, more eager to uncover the secrets and dangers hidden within the expanse of the forest.
While walking, he took a moment to examine his new weapon. The sword had a shiny steel blade, it’s edge gleaming in the sunlight filtering through the dense foliage. The bronze leather grip felt comfortable in his hand, providing a secure hold. Being a one-handed sword, it was surprisingly light, allowing for swift and precise movements. With each step, he grew more accustomed to the weight and balance of the weapon, ready to test it’s capabilities in the trials that awaited him.
As he continued, the forest path suddenly led him to a stop. Three short goblins with green skin, sharp teeth, wearing brown torn cloth as shorts were just up ahead, wielding wooden clubs and knives made of bones blocking his path.
The blue-haired man tightened his grip on his newly acquired sword, bracing himself for the upcoming confrontation with these menacing creatures. “Sigh, 1st a slime now goblins, what’s next, ogres!?” he mumbled to himself, his gaze fixed on the trio of monsters ahead.
With determination in his eyes, he slowly approached the goblins, tightly wielding his blade. The three monsters, emitting sadistic high-pitched cries, charged right at him. In an abrupt move, Tatsuya dashed past one of the goblins, his blade piercing across it’s small abdomen. Green blood gushed from the creature's body as it collapsed face-down in the dirt, a testament to his agility and the sharpness of his newly acquired sword.
The remaining two goblins, momentarily stunned by their fallen comrade, faced a sudden turn of events. In a surge of fear, one of the goblins turned tail and fled into the depths of the forest, it’s shrill cries fading into the distance. The other, fueled by a mix of rage and desperation, angrily swung it’s club in a wild barrage, missing Ishikawa entirely.
Seizing the opportunity presented by the goblin's reckless attack, the young man countered with quick precision. With one cold strike, his blade met it’s mark, cutting the goblin down. The creature crumpled to the ground, it’s angry cries silenced. The forest fell silent once more, save for the rustling leaves. The novice swordsmen standing victorious amidst the fallen goblins.
[LEVEL 2 Achieved]
[Notification]
Leveling up will raise your stats such as: ATK, DEF, HP. Make sure to try and level up as much as possible, you never know when a higher-level enemy or hostile player will appear!]
[Battle Pass Unlocked]
A battle Pass allows you to obtain new rewards merely by leveling up! Every two weeks the available battle passes will change to allow you to acquire new: Clothing, weapons or abilities. Make sure to choose one of the three available battle passes to acquire extra items to aid in your survival]
A menu popped up that allowed him to choose between three battle passes, each one based around a specific fighting style:
[Choose A Battle Pass]
• Swordsmen Battle Pass
• Ninja Battle Pass
• Mage Battle Pass
After looking over the three options for a moment, he tapped “Swordsmen” as his battle pass option. “I already have a sword, I may as well work on my swordsmen fighting style” The blue menu burst into wisps of blue light as his clothing changed to a black kimono, the fabric flowing elegantly around him. The young warrior admired his new attire, allowing for ease of movement.
Excitement flickered in his eyes as he contemplated the possibilities. The forest around him seemed to shimmer with anticipation as he eagerly looked forward to the next battle. With newfound excitement, Tatsuya dashed through the forest, searching for his next opponent.
As he sprinted, the ground began trembling beneath his feet. Without warning, a large dark-green ogre landed in front of him, it’s sheer presence shaking the surrounding forest. Towering over him, the ogre brandished a massive tree log as a makeshift club. Sharp teeth protruded from it’s menacing grin, and eyes that glowed a crimson red.
A deep voice, resonant and powerful, echoed through the forest as the ogre spoke: “Foolish human, weaklings such as you have no place within these woods aside from being prey for those above you. Now, prepare to be crushed by my mighty power!” The man, undeterred by the formidable foe, tightened his grip on his blade, ready to face this unexpected foe, his blue hair blowing in the tense breeze.
With a menacing grin, the large green brute brought the massive log down, attempting to crush the swordsman beneath it’s weight. However, with swift reflexes, Ishikawa skillfully stepped out of harm's way just in time, narrowly avoiding the devastating impact. The ground quaked in a gust of fierce wind as the ogre's attack missed, leaving the young man poised and ready for a counterattack.
Seizing the opportunity, the blue-haired samurai leaped onto the log, running up the log with extraordinary speed, he delivered a fierce sword strike to the massive brute. The blade connected with precision, shattering one of the ogre's massive fangs. Before the enraged creature could retaliate, the samurai gracefully leaped out of reach, leaving the ogre roaring in pain and frustration.
“TSSSK! WHY YOU LITTLE PEBBLE! I’LL CRUSH YOU IF IT’S THE LAST THING I DO!”
Enraged, the monster lunged into the air, descending with a devastating punch to the ground. The impact unleashed a devastating shockwave across the entire forest, causing the young samurai to get sent staggering through the air. He collided with a large boulder, knocking the wind out of him. As the dust settled, the green brute spotted the injured man lying on the ground, struggling to catch his breath.
“Tsssk, w-what a pain” Using his sword as support, the young samurai slowly forced himself to his feet. In that vulnerable moment, the ogre picked up his large tree log, hurling it directly at him. With strong resolve, fueled by adrenaline and determination, he raised his blade. In one swift slash, he cleaved the incoming log in half, the split pieces falling harmlessly to the ground.
Though battered and out of breath, Ishikawa remained unyielding in the face of the ogre's relentless assault. Steeling himself with a resolute spirit, the blue-haired swordsman charged straight for the towering creature, his movements calculated and precise. He skillfully dodged the ogre's massive fists, displaying agility that disguised the exhaustion in his body.
In a decisive moment, the samurai closed the distance between them. He thrusted his blade forward, piercing through the ogre's thick green stomach. The massive brute roared in pain as it stumbled backward, it’s formidable strength waning. In a thunderous crash, the ogre hit the ground, defeated by the relentless prowess of the mere human.
[NOTIFICATION]
Congratulations, you’ve defeated the boss and therefore completed the tutorial! Be cautious moving forward from here, you will face more and more monsters as well as other participants of the royale, so trend carefully]
As the victorious samurai walked past the pop-up, the notification shattered like pieces of blue glass. Before him, a blue portal formed, beckoning him forward. He Stepped through the rift, finding himself in a small wooden room, furnished only with a small wooden bed and a simple wooden desk. The transition marked the beginning of a new chapter in the ongoing trials of Rebirth Royale.
CHAPTER 1 The Real Battle Begins
Collapsing onto the wooden chair by the desk, Tatsuya struggled to catch his breath, his body aching from the exertion of the mere tutorial. His Aqua blue hair fell across his face, a veil of exhaustion masking his features. He Leaned forward before resting his arms on his thigh, the weight of fatigue pulling him down. With each breath, he felt the weight of his recent trials pressing upon him, a reminder of the challenges that lay ahead in Rebirth Royale.
As a sigh escaped his lips, Tatsuya belatedly realized the toll the tutorial had taken on his stamina. Brushing aside strands of hair that had fallen across his eyes, he surveyed the small wooden bedroom around him. The floor consisted of your typical wooden flooring, while plain wooden walls and a simple ceiling enclosed the space, reminiscent of a modest cottage.
Despite it’s simplicity, the room felt empty and lacking in serenity, with sparse furnishings failing to fill the space. Tatsuya's gaze lingered, a sense of longing stirring within him for a place that felt more like home.
After a few minutes of silence, allowing himself to regain his strength, Tatsuya rose to his feet. "Alright, time to get back in the game. Though...what's the next step? And where can I use these gold coins I've earned?"
A radiant blue glow enveloped Tatsuya as a holographic pop-up materialized before him. The notification hovered in front of him, it’s presence pulsating with energy. In bold, luminous letters:
[Notification]
Menu Access Unlocked!
By uttering the word 'menu,' you now possess the power to access a branch of possibilities. Explore, strategize, and enhance your path in Rebirth Royale. May your path lead you to become #1"
With a sense of anticipation coursing through him, Tatsuya prepared to delve into the depths of this newfound interface, eager to unlock the secrets it held.
A slight smirk crept across Tatsuya's face as he uttered the word "menu" In an instant, the air crackled with energy in display of glowing blue hues that materialized before him. A vast interface teeming with possibilities spawned before him, each feature beckoned to him, promising untold power and opportunity within Rebirth Royale's realm. With a determined gleam in his eyes, Tatsuya eagerly delved into the interface, ready to chart his path to greatness.
[MENU]
• Character Status - Displays current level, stats, and progress.
• Inventory - manage items, equipment, and consumables.
• Skills - Shows acquired skills and abilities, with options to upgrade and customize.
• Quest Log - Tracks ongoing quests, objectives, and rewards.
• Battle Modes – Access all available modes such as royale, dungeons and more...
• Map - Provides a detailed map of the game world, including locations of interest and points of significance.
• Party Management - Enables Tatsuya to form parties, invite allies, and coordinate strategies.
• Shop - Accesses a virtual marketplace where Tatsuya can purchase items, equipment, and upgrades using in-game currency.
• Settings - Allows to customize game settings, controls, and preferences.
• Achievements - Displays achievements and milestones, with rewards for completion.
• Clan/Guild - Facilitates interaction with clans or guilds, including recruitment, communication, and collaboration.
Ishikawa’s gaze swept over the list of features displayed before him. With a decisive tap, he selected "Character Status" In an instant, the interface transformed, presenting a detailed screen with his avatar standing on the left. On the right side, his vital statistics were meticulously listed: HP, DEF, SPD, ATK, MP, AGI, INT, and more, each value representing a facet of his strength and capabilities within Rebirth Royale. With a focused expression, Tatsuya studied the information before him, keenly aware of the significance each stat held in his journey ahead.
Beside his level, Ishikawa’s attention was drawn to a critical detail: "Available Skill Points: 2" He scanned through the array of potential combinations, contemplating the impact of each allocation. With only two points to spare, his options were limited, yet the gravity of his decision was undeniable. He mused to himself, "Where should I invest these points?" The query hung in the air, underscoring the impact of his forthcoming choice and it’s repercussions on his journey through Rebirth Royale.
After a brief moment of contemplation, Tatsuya's finger hovered over the options before decisively tapping on HP, followed by SPD. A smile crept across his face as he confirmed his choices. With a final press of the confirm button, the menu seamlessly folded back to it’s initial display, marking the completion of his stat allocation.
"Here's to being tougher and faster," Tatsuya murmured, a hint of excitement in his voice as he prepared to face the challenges that lay ahead within Rebirth Royale. With a smooth motion, Tatsuya's hand glided down to the "Shop" option, eager to explore the offerings available. As he selected it, a new screen materialized before him, presenting a comprehensive list of items neatly categorized for his perusal. The shop's interface displayed a list of categories on the left side, while rows of available items within the selected category adorned the right.
"Clothing, weapons, perks, mounts/companions, items, skills..." Tatsuya murmured as he scrolled through the various categories, each holding the promise of enhancing his abilities and outfitting him for the challenges ahead. With a focused gaze, he began to delve into the shop's inventory, ready to acquire whatever tools and gear would aid him.
As Tatsuya skimmed through the current categories, his eyes momentarily flickered down to his dull attire—a simple black cloth shirt and pants. They were functional, but hardly eye-catching, especially amidst the vibrant and diverse world. With a faint grimace, he realized the need to upgrade his wardrobe before anything else.
"Guess it's time to ditch the drab look," he muttered to himself, his voice carrying a tinge of exasperation. Resolved to make a change, Tatsuya redirected his focus to the Clothing category, determined to find an outfit that would better suit his status as a participant in this extraordinary world.
As Tatsuya perused the various attire options available to him, he found himself underwhelmed by many of the choices. Either they didn't quite match his taste, or they were priced far beyond his current budget of merely 1,000 gold coins. However, his eyes soon settled on a striking attire—a sleek black jacket with a white fur hood, adorned with golden accents such as a zipper and a sun emblem on the right sleeve.
It was also paired with a crisp white inner-shirt and stylish black jeans. It exuded an aura of both sophistication and practicality. To his relief, the outfit came with a price tag exactly matching his available funds.
Without hesitation, Tatsuya made the purchase and navigated to his inventory. With a decisive tap on "Equip," his current clothing was engulfed in a radiant white light that filled the room, momentarily dazzling his senses. As the light faded, his transformation was revealed—the dull attire replaced by the new, stylish ensemble that now adorned his form. A sense of satisfaction washed over him as he admired his updated appearance, ready to face the upcoming challenges with renewed confidence and style.
In a voice that exuded confidence and determination, Tatsuya proclaimed, "It's time to get back to leveling up and becoming strong enough to defend against any warrior or monster that comes my way" With a decisive gesture, he selected the "Battle Modes" feature, anticipation coursing through his veins.
As the menu materialized before him, offering only one accessible option:
[Battle modes]
• Survival
Map 01: The Endless Forest]
He let out a sigh, "Well, everyone starts somewhere" With a firm nod, he affirmed his decision. "Let's do this!" With that, he stepped forward confirming the selection as the interface shattered into blue wisps as a rift of blinding blue light manifested before him. He was ready to face the challenges of the forest and emerge stronger on the other side....
In the heart of the lush green forest, Tatsuya emerged from the rift, his aqua blue hair billowing gently in the soft breeze. As he stepped into the familiar clearing, a sense of déjà vu washed over him. Yet, this time, there was a newfound confidence in his demeanor, born from the trials he had faced during his initial journey.
With a steady gaze, he surveyed the surroundings, taking in the serene beauty of the forest. The towering trees swayed gently, their leaves rustling in harmony with the wind. The air was thick with the scent of earth and foliage, filling Tatsuya with a sense of calm determination.
As he breathed in deeply, he felt a surge of energy coursing through his veins. Tatsuya was ready to take on whatever awaited him in the endless expanse of the forest. With a resolute step forward, he embarked on his journey once more, ready to carve his path to greatness.
As Ishikawa strode down the dirt path weaving through the shaded forest, his senses on high alert, he soon caught wind of something stirring nearby. He halted abruptly, muscles tensing as he instinctively gripped the hilt of his blade at his side.
A sudden rustle, and before he could react, a small goblin clad in bronze armor leaped forth from the tree beside him with a shrill cry. The creature brandished a knife-sized steel sword, intent on striking down the unsuspecting warrior. With enhanced reflexes honed by his increased SPD, Ishikawa narrowly evaded the incoming attack, his movements swift and precise, barely missing the goblin's blade by mere inches.
The small green gremlin struck the ground with a thud, sending dirt flying in all directions. As Ishikawa staggered back a few feet, he quickly regained his balance. He glanced down to see the dark-green creature struggling to retrieve it’s blade, now half-submerged in the soft earth.
A slight smirk played on Ishikawa's lips as he observed the creature's futile efforts. With a taunting edge to his voice, he couldn't help but jest, "Having a bit of trouble there, are we?" His words were laced with amusement, a subtle jab at the goblin's predicament as he prepared to make his next move.
Still with a confident smirk, Ishikawa took a decisive step forward before breaking into a sprint, his determination driving him forward. As the defenseless goblin continued to struggle with it’s embedded blade, Ishikawa seized the opportunity to deliver a swift and powerful kick to the monster's jaw.
The force of the impact sent the goblin hurtling through the air, it’s cries echoing through the forest as it soared like a green projectile. Ishikawa's voice resounded with a hint of taunt as he watched the goblin's trajectory, his words dripping with amusement. "I'd say that kick was worth at least three or five points," he remarked, a satisfied grin tugging at the corners of his lips. With a sense of satisfaction, Ishikawa continued on his path through the forest, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
As Ishikawa strolled through the verdant forest, soaking in the serene ambiance, his tranquil reverie was abruptly interrupted by the sudden appearance of a notification. It materialized before him in a burst of blue light, it’s words flashing ominously in bold red letters:
[Warning!]
Another Rebirth Hunter detected within 100 meters.
Exercise caution]
The urgency of the message sent a shiver down Ishikawa's spine, his senses instantly sharpening as he braced himself for the potential encounter. In the midst of the tranquil forest, the world of Rebirth Royale proved to be fraught with unseen perils, and Ishikawa knew better than to underestimate the danger that lurked nearby. With a wary glance around him, he pressed forward, every step guided by vigilance and the knowledge that he was not alone in this unforgiving world.
Ishikawa's hand trembled as he tightened his grip on the hilt of his blade, a wave of uncertainty washing over him. The prospect of facing another rebirth hunter filled him with an unfamiliar sense of unease. He had never confronted another human in battle before, let alone contemplated the idea of taking a human life.
The weight of the situation bore down on him, his mind grappling with the moral implications of combat. The thought of taking another's life churned his stomach, a knot of guilt and apprehension tightening within him. It was a notion he had never entertained until this moment, and the gravity of it weighed heavily on his conscience.
Yet, amidst the turmoil of his conflicting emotions, Ishikawa knew that he could ill afford to underestimate the danger that lay ahead. If he didn't take the threat seriously, he could very well find himself on the receiving end of a fatal blow. With a resolute exhale, he steeled himself for the imminent confrontation, his trembling hand steadying as he prepared to face the unknown threat.
Without warning, a cacophony of laughter pierced the air, heralding the sudden appearance of a figure cloaked in darkness. Ishikawa's instincts kicked into overdrive as he swiftly raised his blade, meeting the incoming assault head-on. The clash reverberated through the forest as his blade collided with a young man wielding a black kunai, adorned in a sleek black ninja uniform. His fiery red hair blazing in stark contrast to the shadows that enveloped him.
As their weapons clashed with resounding force, Ishikawa locked eyes with his assailant, noting the sadistic grin that twisted the ninja's features. The intensity of their confrontation crackled in the air, sparks erupting from the clash of steel against steel. In that moment, amidst the chaos of battle, Tatsuya braced himself for the relentless onslaught of the enemy before him.
As their blades clashed in a flurry of steel, the red-haired ninja's lips curled into a sadistic grin, his golden eyes alight with twisted amusement. His voice dripping in malice and arrogance, he taunted Ishikawa: "Well, well, what do we have here?" he sneered, his voice laced with a chilling edge. "Seems like we've stumbled upon a little lost lamb wandering into the wolf's den" Each syllable punctuated with a sinister undertone. "You're in for quite the rude awakening, my dear plaything. Prepare to taste the bitter sting of defeat at the hands of a true master of shadows"
With a mocking laugh, the shinobi abruptly vanished, leaving Ishikawa to scan his surroundings with wary eyes. As he darted his head left and right, searching for any sign of his elusive opponent, a sudden glint of steel caught his attention.
Without warning, a kunai came hurtling through the air with deadly precision, it’s trajectory aimed directly at Ishikawa's right eye. With lightning reflexes, Ishikawa managed to sidestep the projectile just in time, feeling a searing pain as it grazed his cheek, leaving a trail of blood in its wake. The forest echoed with the sound of his sharp intake of breath, his adrenaline surging as he assessed the gravity of the situation.
Despite the pain throbbing in his cheek, Ishikawa remained undeterred, his resolve unwavering in the face of danger. With a steely gaze, he braced himself for the next onslaught, his senses honed and ready to respond with swift and decisive action. In the heart of the forest, amidst the dance of shadows and steel, the battle between samurai and shinobi raged on, each combatant fighting tooth and nail to emerge victorious.
With a pained groan, Ishikawa muttered to himself, his words tinged with frustration and disbelief. "What a lunatic...going straight for the eye instead of aiming for my arms or legs, or even my abdomen!?" The absurdity of the shinobi's tactics struck him as reckless and irrational, a testament to the unpredictable nature of their adversary.
Despite the pain throbbing in his cheek and the blood trickling down his face, Ishikawa's determination remained steadfast. He knew that he couldn't afford to let his guard down for even a moment, not against an opponent who showed no hesitation in resorting to such ruthless tactics. With a grim resolve, he readied himself for the next onslaught, his mind focused and his senses keenly attuned to the shadows that lurked around him. In the midst of the chaotic fray, the swordsmen remained determined to emerge victorious, no matter the cost.
With a fierce battle cry erupting from his lips, Ishikawa tightened his grip on his blade, his muscles coiling with will power as a barrage of kunai came hurtling through the air, aimed squarely at him. In a flurry of motion, he swung his sword with all his might, deflecting each projectile with precise strikes, the clash of steel echoing through the forest.
His aqua-blue hair billowed behind him in the wake of his speed, a testament to the ferocity of his movements. Beads of sweat trickled down the side of his face, mingling with the blood that stained his cheek. Despite the physical exertion and the relentless assault, Ishikawa refused to yield, his resolve unyielding in the face of adversity.
Each deflected kunai sparked against his blade, the sheer force of the onslaught driving him back step by step. But with unwavering determination burning in his golden eyes, Ishikawa stood his ground, his spirit unbroken amidst the chaos of battle.
As the barrage of projectiles finally came to a halt, Tatsuya found himself surrounded by dozens of kunai littering the ground at his feet. Gasping for air, he could feel the strain in his muscles, his arm growing sore from the exertion of deflecting the relentless assault. But even amidst his exhaustion, he remained vigilant, his senses keenly attuned to the slightest sound or movement in the forest around him.
Suddenly, the snap of a twig echoed through the air behind him, sending a jolt of adrenaline coursing through his veins. With split-second reflexes, Ishikawa spun around, his instincts guiding him as he launched his sword like a spear with all his strength. The blade sliced through the air with deadly precision, finding it’s mark with a sickening gush.
A gasp of pain tore through the silence as the invisible assailant materialized before him, the blade piercing through his abdomen with brutal force. Ishikawa's breath caught in his throat as he watched the figure stagger backward, his black clothing stained crimson with blood. In that moment, Tatsuya held back the urge to puke at the sight of another human fatally wounded by his hand.
As Ishikawa stared at the figure before him, his mind raced with a torrent of racing thoughts, echoing with turmoil and uncertainty. (W-what have I done...?) he thought, the weight of his actions settling heavily on his conscience. A wave of nausea washed over him as he grappled with the reality, the sight of his opponent's blood staining the forest floor sending a shiver down his spine.
In that moment of grim realization, he felt sickened by the violence he had unleashed, the stark reality of taking another's life weighing heavily on his soul. But amidst the turmoil and doubt, a fierce urge for survival burned within him, a reminder that in these unforgiving trials, it was either him or death. With a heavy heart and a steely resolve, Ishikawa steeled himself, knowing survival was the only option.
As the shinobi quivered in agony, the intensity of his pain etched across his features, he pulled out the blade before falling to his hands and knees. His body wracked with the searing torment of his wounds. With a grimace of agony, he spat out a mouthful of blood, the metallic taste staining his lips as he struggled to maintain his composure.
In a cruel twist of fate, the shinobi's sadistic laughter rang out through the forest, his voice laced with venom and resentment as he raised his head to meet Tatsuya's gaze. Through gritted teeth, he cursed at his combatant, his words dripping with malice and defiance. "Go to hell, you damn bastard!" he spat, his voice trembling with the last vestiges of his strength.
With a final, defiant gesture, the shinobi collapsed to the forest floor, his body motionless amidst a pool of blood. In that fleeting moment of defiance, he embodied the relentless spirit of a warrior, refusing to yield even in the face of death. And as Ishikawa looked upon the fallen foe, a somber silence descended upon the forest, a grim reminder of the harsh realities of Rebirth Royale.
With a solemn gaze, Ishikawa looked down at the fallen shinobi, his features softened by the cold breeze that swept through the forest. Taking a deep breath, he slowly approached the pool of blood, his blood-soaked sword glinting in the faint light filtering through the trees. Without a word, he stoically retrieved his weapon, the weight of his actions weighing heavily on his conscience.
With measured steps, the young man walked past his fallen adversary, the echo of his footsteps mingling with the solemn silence of the forest. Though his heart weighed heavy with the burden of his deed, he knew there was little room for sentimentality. With resolve hardening in his gaze, he pressed onward...
[LEVEL 5 ACHIEVED]
Skill Obtained:
Counter Stance – Outlines the user’s body in a blue aura for a brief moment. Any landed attacks are instantly countered.
Passive Skill Obtained:
Heightened Awareness - Heightened Awareness: Enhances perception, allowing the user to detect nearby enemies and traps more easily.
Item Acquired:
Basic Katana – A great weapon for beginner Samurai]
Tatsuya's eyes scanned through the notification, a mix of surprise and satisfaction flickering across his features. He hadn't expected such significant rewards upon reaching level five of the battle pass. The newly acquired skills and item were promising signs of his progress, he knew it was time to put these newfound abilities to the test and continue his journey towards becoming a formidable samurai.
The gentle breeze whispered through the dense forest as Tatsuya continued into the endless trail of trees. Hoping for a moment's respite, his thoughts were interrupted by the sharp twang of a bowstring. In an instant, a wooden arrow hurtled towards his head. Reacting swiftly, Tatsuya conjured his steel katana with a burst of azure light, effortlessly deflecting the projectile as it snapped upon impact.
With frustration evident in his voice, Tatsuya groaned in exasperation, "Who's attacking now?" His tone was a blend of curiosity and annoyance as he stood firm, his newly acquired blade gleaming in the sunlight within his right hand.
The sound of a bowstring being drawn caught his attention, causing him to grip the tsuka of his katana. Ishikawa steadied himself, a surge of adrenaline coursing through him. "Skill...counter stance," he declared in a stern voice, his words resolute as he prepared to face the imminent threat.
Once more, the echo of a launched arrow pierced the air. In a flash of movement, Tatsuya's katana intercepted the projectile with a resounding cut. His muscles moved with precision, as if guided by pure instinct. The arrow met the grass, split cleanly in two by the force of his deflection. Ishikawa’s gaze scanned the surrounding foliage for the source of the attack, his will unyielding in the face of danger.
The elf descended from the tree with a graceful leap, landing softly in the grass. His emerald, green hair swayed gently in the breeze as he straightened his posture, his gleaming pink eyes widening in surprise. He raised his eyebrow in surprise. "Another rebirth hunter? I thought this area was clear of novice like you," he remarked, his tone a mixture of surprise and superiority. "Well then...prepare yourself, for you face Zerith Deerheart"
Tatsuya's voice, infused with slight apprehension, responded: "Is there any way we can settle this aside from a fight to the death?" he inquired, his words reflecting both his reluctance to engage in unnecessary violence against yet another fellow hunter.
In contrast, Zenith answered in a condescending tone, his voice dripping with disdain. "To even suggest such a thing is a sign of weakness," he retorted, his words cutting through the tension. "Sympathy is a luxury we cannot afford in this ruthless world. It's the quickest way to get yourself killed"
Tatsuya's unease grew as he faced Zenith's dismissive attitude, realizing the harsh reality of their predicament. Zenith looked down on him, his eyes filled with a cold, unwavering glare as he spoke with a stern voice. "If you refuse to fight back, then prepare to be struck down” he declared, his words devoid of any hint of mercy or compassion.
Tatsuya’s aqua blue hair fell across his face, his expression becoming a serious glare in the face of Zenith's warning. “Hmph, I hate the thought of killing another human, the very thought sickens me to the core. But if you refuse to listen to reason, I'll just have to force you to submit” The rebirth hunter declared, aiming his blade in the elf’s direction.
Zenith's composed facade cracked slightly, his jaw tightening as he struggled to maintain his calm demeanor. He then issued a stern warning, his voice laced with an underlying threat. "Tsssk, remain silent, I've no time for further debate!" He commanded, his tone brooking no argument.
The tension in the air thickened, the forest seeming to hold it’s breath as the two hunters stared one another down, their conflicting emotions swirling in the silent exchange.
Tatsuya's voice, firm and resolute, spoke up once more, "Enough games Zenith, if I defat you here...you will submit and join my party” he challenged, his voice carrying an undeniable intensity. Zenith's anger erupted like a violent storm, his voice laced with frustration and fury. "Silence, fool!" his voice reverberating through the forest. "You honestly think you have what it takes to beat me alone!? That’s blasphemous!" His eyes burned with utter emotion. "Prepare to suffer the consequences of your insolence!"
The enraged elf fired an arrow straight for Ishikawa, piercing his shoulder. Blood began to stain the soil at his feet, but instead of submitting, the young warrior gripped his katana, filled with an unbreakable will. Without warning he lunged straight for the archer at immense speed, his hair blowing friskly in the wind.
Zenith quickly drew his sword, his voice echoing with indignation. "Such a troublesome fool!" he bellowed. "If you really believe you can win...then prove it wasn’t mere bluff!"
With a furious roar, the elf charged forward, his blade aimed straight for the injured samurai. Tatsuya met the attack head-on, his katana intercepting the strike with precision. The clash of steel echoed through the forest, sparks dancing around them like fireflies in the night.
A slight smirk tugged at Deerheart’s lips as he taunted, questioning if Tatsuya was finally ready to take the fight seriously. Meeting his opponent's gaze, Ishikawa's expression remained serious, a silent declaration of his acceptance. With a swift motion, he leaped back from their clash, readying himself for the next exchange.
The hostile hunter advanced towards Ishikawa, his movements aggressive and relentless, as he unleashed a barrage of sword strikes aimed at the young samurai. However, Ishikawa met each strike with fluid precision, countering them with skillful movements as if he could anticipate his opponent's every move. With each clash, the ground shook beneath them, the force of their exchanges echoing through the forest.
Despite the intensity of their duel, the pair locked eyes, their gazes unwavering with the pair focused on their opponent's next move. In a sudden and decisive maneuver, Tatsuya launched a powerful kick, knocking the blade out of Deerheart's grasp. The weapon soared through the air before embedding itself into the ground several meters away.
The archer’s expression shifted to one of pure disbelief as Tatsuya pierced his blade through the air, stopping mere inches from the archer's throat. With unwavering resolve, Tatsuya locked eyes with his opponent, a bead of sweat trickling down Deerheart's face the moment he realized the imminent defeat. Unable to meet Tatsuya's gaze any longer, Zenith lowered his head in submission.
With a scoff, he muttered, "Tssk, to think I could be defeated by a mere novice, what a joke" Tatsuya smirked taking a step back, slowly sheathing his blade. "Don't blame me; you're the archer who challenged a samurai to a sword duel. Most could see that as a stupid decision. Anyway, you lost... that means you have to join my party so we can work together to survive Rebirth Royale"
Zeinth twitched with anger, emitting a series of irritated noises before glaring at Tatsuya with his pink eyes. "Hmph, you're annoying but strong. I suppose I should count myself lucky to join forces with a hunter with potential at least. But don't expect this means I'll be nice to you now. I still can't stand the sight of you, but I'll acknowledge when I'm defeated"
Tatsuya opened his menu, navigating to the "social" section. With a few taps, he sent the frustrated elf a friend request and a party invitation. Zenith huffed, eventually accepting both, prompting a notification to pop up in front of Tatsuya.
[NOTIFICATION]
Zenith Deerheart has joined your party]
[LEVEL 7 ACHIEVED]
Skill Obtained:
Crimson Strike – Imbue user’s blade in a flaming aura before releasing a fierce slash of flames.
Stat Available points: 4
New Feature Available:
Rebirth Adventure – Explore the vast world of Rebirth Royale as one massive world, rather than separate restricted maps!]
"Wow, leveling up twice and unlocking this 'rebirth adventure' feature!?" Tatsuya mused, excitement lacing his words as he glanced at the notification. His attention shifted to the archer, who retrieved his blade still buried in the dirt with a groan.
"Very well," Zenith retorted with a mixture of sophistication and irritation, his voice still laced with an air of superiority. "I suppose joining forces may do us both some good. However, let it be known that my tolerance for your presence is as limited as your own capabilities"
Tatsuya chuckled lightly, a hint of mischief in his voice as he retorted, "Limited capabilities, huh? And yet, here you are, defeated by a mere novice" His tone took on a taunting edge as he emphasized his point. "So, let's see if your 'superiority' holds up in the face of real strength"
The green-haired elf's response was a disdainful scoff, his arms crossing over his chest in a display of frustration. With a sharp snap in his tone, he responded, "Enough with your banter, we have no time to waste on idle chatter. Let's move quickly and find the rift before more trouble finds us," he stated firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Tatsuya's words dripped with playful sarcasm as he retorted, "Very well, oh 'superior one'," his tone tinged with a touch of mockery. "The rift shouldn't be too far from here. If we stick to the usual path, it should lead us straight to it," he remarked, his voice shifting to a more serious tone as he turned his attention to the task ahead.
