《Chef in the Apocalypse》


 Chapter 1: Prologue

    <h4>Chapter 1: Prologue</h4>


    In the midst of a world shrouded in darkness and gloom, perched upon a rugged mountain, six individuals gathered around a flickering campfire. An air of anxiety loomed over some, while others exhibited unwavering determination.


    Amidst the group, a man garbed in heavy armor sat upon a t stone, meticulously polishing his sword. His helmet had been removed, revealing a rugged face that had not seen a razor for the better part of a month.


    His eyes were clear and blue, with a hint of innocence behind them, a stark contrast to the domineering heavy armor he was wearing. Feeling the tense atmosphere, he spoke up, trying to lighten the mood.


    "Helen, what did you want to be when you grew up?"


    However, his question was met with a frosty gaze from a female ice mage, who sternly admonished him, reminding him that this was no time for such discussions.


    Archer, always the mediator, grinned mischievously at the ice mage. "Come on, Ice Queen, Jayce has got a point. We could use a goodugh before facing whatever''s out there."


    The ice mage red back, her icy demeanor undeterred. "First of all, it''s none of your business. And secondly, this is a dangerous mission, we can not afford to be distracted."


    Jayce, undeterred by the pretty woman''s words, persisted with a smile. "Ohe on, I''m sure it was something cool like wanting to be a model, or even an Idol."


    Helen rolled her eyes and turned her back to the fire, choosing to ignore the two men.


    "I guess I''ll start." Jayce said with a smile. Looking into the fire, his face turned a little serious, "I.. I always wanted to be a chef. Working my way up in the kitchen until I could own a Michelin star restaurant."


    A silence swept over the mountain after these words were said, causing Jayce to look up from the fire and investigate. He gazed at the faces of his battle party that had sweat and bled together over the years with a questioning look.


    After a few moments of silence, the team burst into uproariousughter, sending echoes throughout the mountainous range around them. Even Helen who had been attempting to ignore the chatter was holding her sides and giggling.


    Jayce blinked a few times before his face turned red in embarrassment. "W-What''s so funny!" he growled.


    A blond man finally managed topose himself, flipping the flowing hair out of his face before saying, "Jayce, thest time you cooked for us you almost burnt down our entire campsite. We had to find another beast to butcher otherwise we would have gone hungry!"


    The cohort burst intoughter once more, remembering the bumbling Jayce in front of the charred remains of their "dinner".


    Jayce sulked, puffing his cheeks at the reaction of his supposed teammates "Well, excuse me for not being a master chef like I had hoped!"


    Theughter subsided, and their leader, a towering figure armed with an enormous sword and shield, rose to his feet. He gestured for everyone to take their positions, their faces transforming into stern masks of battle-hardened warriors.


    Jayce, being part of the vanguard, took his ce at the front. But inwardly, he cursed himself for agreeing to this perilous expedition into the treacherous mountains. The mission was merely a scouting one, but doubt gnawed at his heart.


    Suddenly, the cohort''s attention shifted as they caught sight of a figure on the horizon. Eyes widened in wonder as the object gradually approached. After a moment of anticipation, they saw a pointed object, slowlying into view. As it got closer the cohort realized it was a sharp horn,ing into view was a colossal draconic beast, its scales gleaming with an otherworldly luminescence¡ªa sight both awe-inspiring and unsettling.


    Theicalughter that had resonated moments ago turned into hushed whispers, the lightness of the moment swallowed by a wave of trepidation. The air crackled with tension as the beast''s presence became palpable.


    Jayce''s instincts kicked in, his voice cutting through the uncertainty. "Be on guard, everyone. This is no ordinary creature. Prepare for battle!"


    As if in response to Jayce''s warning, the beast let out a thunderous roar, shaking the very foundation of the mountain. Its fiery eyes locked onto the cohort, radiating an aura of ferocity and power.


    Jason saw a blood red name hovering over the colossal draconic beasts head, making him pale deeply. No one had ever fought a beast with a red name and lived to tell the tale. He looked over at his friends and swallowed deeply.


    From the looks on their faces, they had also seen the boss''s name and knew that there was no escape.


    In an instant, the beast lunged forward, ws shing through the air with a blinding swiftness. Jayce''s words were swallowed by the chaos as hisrades sprang into action, their weapons shing against the beast''s scales in a desperate bid for survival.


    The sh between the cohort and the colossal draconic beast grew increasingly desperate. Despite their battle-hardened skills and unwavering resolve, their efforts seemed feeble against the overwhelming might of the creature. The beast''s scales proved impervious to their weapons, and its ferocious strength surpassed anything they had encountered before.


    One by one, hisrades fell, their valiant struggles extinguished like flickering candles in the wind. Jayce''s heart sank with each loss, his own resolve wavering as he witnessed the futility of their fight. Yet, he refused to surrender. He would stand his ground until the bitter end, even if it meant facing the crushing weight of despair.


    The beast moved with unearthly speed, its ws tearing through the air like razor-sharp scythes. Jayce dodged and parried, his movements fueled by a mixture of desperation and determination. But with each passing moment, the odds stacked against him. The beast''s ferocity was unmatched, its attacks precise and deadly.


    In a terrifying disy of power, the creature let out a deafening roar that shook the very mountainside. The ground quaked beneath Jayce''s feet as he desperately tried to hold his ground. But as the battle unfolded, his fate seemed sealed. The beast''s movements became a blur, an unstoppable force of destruction.


    Jayce''s vision blurred with exhaustion and despair. Through the haze, he caught a glimpse of the beast''s massive foot descending upon him. In that fleeting moment, he knew his end hade. He closed his eyes, bracing himself for the inevitable impact.


    A deafening crack filled the air, followed by a bone-chilling silence. Jayce''s consciousness faded as the world turned to darkness.

 Chapter 2: Another Chance

    <h4>Chapter 2: Another Chance</h4>


    Jayce''s eyes shot open, his body jolting upright in bed. His chest heaved with each rapid breath as he clutched at his pounding heart. Sweat trickled down his forehead, mingling with the remnants of a terror that gripped him. Thest moment of the harrowing fight against the colossal draconic beast still lingered in his mind.


    As he nced around the room, panic and confusion washed over him. The familiar surroundings registered in his mind¡ªhis old room from a decade ago, frozen in time. The posters of heroes and fantasyndscapes adorned the walls, triggering a wave of nostalgia.


    The reality of the situation crashed down upon him. How could this be? He vividly remembered the battle, the devastating defeat, and his imminent demise beneath the weight of the creature''s foot. Yet, here he was, back in the past, seemingly unscathed.


    His friends and allies, brutally disemboweled and defeated by the boss monster in the mountainous region. He quickly lifted up his shirt, searching for the massive scar that he had received early on, only to see his stomach without a blemish.


    The sudden vibration of his phone jolted him from his bewildered state. Instinctively, he reached for the device, unlocking it to reveal a news article. The words on the screen sent shivers down his spine¡ªthe new virtual reality game was being released in just an hour.


    Jayce''s mind whirled with confusion and disbelief. Trembling fingers hastily checked the date, his eyes widening as he read the ring numbers¡ª1st July 2050. A gasp escaped his lips, reverberating through the empty room. It was a revtion that struck shock into the depths of his soul¡ªhe had truly traveled back in time, a decade into the past.


    ***


    Jayce sat on his bed, his mind consumed by the weight of his current predicament. The knowledge of the impending apocalypse, set to ravage the world in a mere three months, weighed heavily on his shoulders. His gaze settled on his phone, its screen disying the name that had triggered this apocalyptic chain of events.


    "Cataclysm: World''s End," he muttered, his teeth clenched in frustration.


    The mere sight of those words sent a chill down his spine, dredging up memories he would rather forget. In the future he knew that the game''s world would merge with Earth, plunging the modern civilization into a maelstrom of chaos and despair. It would be a literal apocalypse.


    The first two years were the darkest for humanity. The merging of the game world with reality unleashed a catastrophic electromaic pulse, obliterating all technology known to mankind. In a single stroke, the modern world was hurled back into the abyss of the Dark Ages.


    Yet, that was not the cruelest blow of all.


    The true horror manifested in the form of monstrous creatures, unleashed upon the Earth in countless hordes, thirsty for blood and destruction. The wave of death and devastation that swept thend was unimaginable.


    There was something strange that urred during the merging of the two worlds¡ªthe introduction of the system. Those familiar with Cataclysm would recognize its striking resemnce to the user interface of the game.


    Every living human, regardless of age or gender, received the same enigmatic message: "Choose your ss."


    Numerous options awaited, frombat-oriented sses like Mage, Ranger, Monk, Guardian, and Swordsman, to nonbat roles such as cksmith and Alchemist.


    Jayce had been a Swordsman, risking his life on the frontlines against the abominations that invaded their world.


    Humanity, over time, managed to establish strongholds across thend, providing a semnce of safety. With governments fallen, the strongest yers formed guilds, offering refuge to nonbatant sses while utilizing their skills and talents to bolster their fighting forces.


    The guild Jayce had joined was called Avnche, a mid-sized guild on the Asian continent. Its leader''s true name was unknown, but he went by the alias Cloud, wielding a colossal greatsword that spanned the length of his towering frame.


    It was within this guild that Jayce had found hisrades, battling alongside them in countless encounters, gradually evolving into a formidable battle party.


    Theirtest mission had been to scout the fearsome boss residing in the western mountains and report back to the guild, enabling a full raid party to confront it. Little did they know it would mark their final mission together.


    Jayce''s grip tightened around his phone, a whirlwind of emotions raging within him. If he had truly traveled back ten years into the past, then all hope was not lost. He still had time to prepare for the impending catastrophe, armed with his knowledge of future events and honedbat experience.


    "Let''s do this," he dered, mustering the courage that burned within. Leaping off the bed, he strode toward his VR machine, ready to embark on a journey that would alter the course of his fate.

 Chapter 3: Entering the Game

    <h4>Chapter 3: Entering the Game</h4>


    Jayce stood before his VR gaming pod, his heart heavy with a profound sigh. The virtual world had once been his sanctuary, a realm where he could escape the burdens and hardships of reality.


    With no family left to rely on, he subsisted on histe father''s life insurance, channeling the funds toward his education, hoping to forge a path for himself. The weight of loneliness and the pressures of life often threatened to engulf him, plunging him into the depths of despair, tempting him to join his departed loved ones in the realm beyond.


    And then, he heard of VR¡ªthe newest sensation sweeping across the world. Rubix Corporation had unveiled the groundbreaking full-dive technology, a marvel that transported yers'' consciousness into an alternate realm. It promised an immersive experience, engaging all five senses. The allure of exploring a different world, an escape from his own deste reality, proved too irresistible for Jayce to resist.


    As he gazed upon the pod before him, a maelstrom of emotions swirled within him¡ªfear, apprehension, yearning, and a resolute determination. Slowly, he managed to steady his trembling breaths, mustering the courage needed to step forward and lower his body into the sleek, epassing chamber.


    In the stillness of that pivotal moment, Jayce contemted his next moves. He had a mere three months until the game would manifest in the real world, offering him just one chance to navigate the treacherous path thaty ahead.


    "Here goes nothing," he whispered, his voice filled with a blend of anticipation and uncertainty. With steady hands, he reached out and grasped the VR headset, flipping the switch to power it on.


    Jayce''s eyes fluttered open, only to be greeted by an expanse of imprable darkness. Above him, distant stars flickered, casting their feeble light upon the void. A monotone voice, one he immediately recognized as the system''s, filled the air, its words reverberating through his consciousness.


    [Initializing start-up...]


    [Scanning body parameters... Please standby]


    As if responding to the system''smand, a gentle warmth washed over Jayce, starting from his toes and gradually enveloping his entire being. It was the sensation of his body being meticulously scanned by the pod, every detail recorded with precision.


    After a few moments, a figure materialized before him¡ªa projection of a person. The figure possessed spiky short ck hair, its eyebrows resembling twin swords, and clear blue eyes that shone with a glimmer of life. The projection mirrored Jayce''s appearance, but it was unmistakably a younger version of himself, a reflection from a decade past.


    Gazing at the youthful projection before him, Jayce felt a wave of emotions surge within his chest. It was a mixture of astonishment, recognition, and a tinge of nostalgia. He had traveled back in time, finding himself face to face with the person he once was, a mere shadow of the experiences that awaited him.


    The projection stared back at him, devoid of animation or vitality, a hollow reflection of his former self. Jayce''s lips curled into a wistful smile as he marveled at the innocence and naivety that emanated from his younger visage. It was a reminder of the untainted dreams and aspirations he had carried in his heart before the world had changed.


    [Scanningplete. Choose your ss]


    A familiar list suddenly appeared in front of Jayce, detailing a list of sses.


    Swordsman: Masters of meleebat, wielding des with precision and skill. Their swift strikes and impable technique make them formidable opponents on the battlefield.


    Mage: Harnessers of arcane energies, capable of unleashing devastating spells upon their foes. Magesmand the elements, manipting fire, ice, lightning, and more to shape the oue of battles.


    Archer: Experts in long-range warfare, armed with bows and an uncanny uracy. Archers strike from a distance, delivering lethal arrows with deadly precision.


    Guardian: Towering defenders of justice, dedicated to shielding theirrades from harm. With immense strength and fortified armor, Guardians stand as unyielding walls against the forces of darkness.


    Monk: Practitioners of martial arts,bining physical prowess and spiritual enlightenment. Monks possess unparalleled agility and unleash powerful strikes imbued with their inner energy.


    Ranger: Masters of wilderness and stealth, attuned to the secrets of nature. Rangers are skilled trackers and marksmen, blending seamlessly with their surroundings while unleashing swift and deadly attacks.


    cksmith: Masters of metallurgy and craftsmanship, shaping weapons and armor with unmatched skill. cksmiths forge powerful equipment, enhancing the strength of their allies and themselves.


    Alchemist: Proficient in the art of potions and concoctions, manipting ingredients to create potent elixirs. Alchemists possess healing abilities and can brew potions that bolster their allies or unleash devastating effects on their enemies.


    Druid: Guardians of the natural world, attuned to the spirits of flora and fauna. Druidsmand nature''s forces, summoning animals, manipting nts, and wielding the power of life and renewal.


    Jayce looked at the list of main sses that were in front of him, however he didn''t need to think for long. Without any fanfare, he chose the ss that he was most familiar with.


    [You have chosen Swordsman. Are you sure you wish to enter Cataclysm as a Swordsman?]


    Acknowledging his choice, he was met with another prompt.


    [Please enter a name for your character]


    He was never good with names, so without any thought he just said his own. "Jayce"


    [Alias Taken]


    "Shit." he responded with annoyance.


    [Alias Taken]


    "No, wait what?"


    [Alias Taken]


    Jayce massaged his temples, feeling a headacheing on. When he had first created a character, he ended up with the name "Jace with a Y". Causing him no shortage of embarrassment.


    His eyes flickered for a moment before a smile crept onto his face. "Gordon Ramsay"


    [Alias Taken]


    ''Fu*k!'' this time he shouted internally, so as not to hear the monotonous voice of the system once again.


    Composing himself once more, he eventually decided on a name.


    "Let me Cook"


    [Name epted. Entering Cataclysm: World''s End]

 Chapter 4: Buying in-game Items

    <h4>Chapter 4: Buying in-game Items</h4>


    Jayce''s consciousness traversed through the digital realm, and when he opened his eyes, he found himself standing in the heart of the beginner vige. It was a quaint settlement nestled within a picturesque valley, surrounded by verdant forests and majestic mountains that reached up to touch the sky. The air carried a crisp freshness, tinged with a hint of anticipation.


    The vige exuded an aura of tranquility, yet it buzzed with activity. yers from all walks of life roamed the cobblestone streets, their names hovering above their heads in a luminescent white hue. The names served as a marker of their identity, allowing others to recognize them in this virtual world. Jayce observed the diverse array of yers, each adorned with distinctive armors, weapons, and attire, showcasing their chosen ss and individual style.


    Amidst the crowd, Jayce spotted fellow adventurers with names like "AegisKnight," "LunaMage," and "ShadowArcher." They formed parties, exchanging strategies sharing their excitement of starting the game. Some gathered around the town square, their weapons sheathed, engaging in friendly sparring matches to test out the game mechanics.


    NPCs, denoted by their names in a soothing green hue, mingled seamlessly with the yers. They yed various roles, from cksmiths hammering away at anvils, tailors stitching elegant garments, to innkeepers weing weary travelers seeking respite from their quests. Their movements were meticulously programmed, yet their interactions felt surprisingly lifelike.


    The architecture of the vige mirrored a fusion of medieval charm and fantastical design. Timber-framed buildings with thatched roofs stood alongside towering spires, adorned with intricate carvings and colorful banners that fluttered in the gentle breeze. The vige square showcased a grand fountain at its center, its waters sparkling and dancing in the sunlight. It served as a meeting point for yers to gather and share information or simply bask in the ambiance of the virtual world.


    Jayce looked around, his eyes filled with wonder. It had been 10 years since he''d entered the world of Cataclysm through the VR set. He''d forgotten how beautiful and scenic it could be.


    However, the next moment his eyes turned cold. Remembering the deste and bloodthirsty world that the game had turned his own world into, awaking him from his reverie.


    "It will be different this time." he said with determination, his clear blue eyes conveying his resolution.


    One''s level in the game had no effect on their abilities in the real world, This was a known fact throughout Jayce''s previous experience. However there were rumors that a person could open up additional sses after reaching max level in the game.


    This is what Jayce was aiming for.


    Although three months was not a long time, he believed it was possible to reach level 100 with the Swordsman ss before Cataclysm descended on Earth. After all, he had 10 years experience with its skills and abilities.


    One of the reasons he was so confident was thanks to the special items listed in the game shop. Like most popr games, they sold tangible items within the game for real life money. From EXP modifiers to potions and even cosmetic items.


    Jayce had mentally worked out how much he had avable to spend whilst still being able to pay all of his bills for 3 months. After the fall of civilization, government endorsed currency became useless. Therefore it was nonsensical to save his money.


    Opening up the Item shop in game, Jayce selected the EXP potion icon.


    [Will you purchase - 2 hour EXP potion x 99?]


    "Yes."


    [Will you purchase - 2 hour EXP potion x 99?]


    "Yes."


    [Will you purchase - 2 hour EXP potion x 99?]


    ¡­


    Eventually, Jayce had spent an astronomical amount of money on EXP potions. Next to his name that was floating above his head, an Icon that said "VIP15" shone gloriously.


    A few passerby''s looked over at him and sneered "Look at this Whale. Buying things with Daddy''s credit card are we?"


    Jayce looked over and blinked a few times. They were actually partly correct, considering he had used a majority of his Dad''s life insurance to purchase the EXP potions. However that didn''t mean he would ept the insult lying down.


    He gracefully lifted his left hand and produced the middle finger and said in an even tone, "Jog on."


    The group scowled and decided to ignore him, whispering insults as they walked away.


    Jayce did not care, he had a mission toplete and he was on a strict schedule. Equipping a few of the EXP potions, he set off to go questing.


    ***


    Jayce''s eyes fluttered open, and as he sat up in bed, a sense of anticipation coursed through his veins. This was the fated day¡ªthe day when the cataclysm would descend upon the world. He stretched his weary limbs, feeling the strain of the past three months of constant gaming and neglecting his physical well-being.


    The consequences of his intense dedication were evident in his appearance. His once wiry frame looked even more emaciated, hisplexion pale and sallow. Neglecting proper nutrition and exercise had taken its toll, leaving his muscles weak and his body drained. But in his heart, he knew that his sacrifice had been necessary for his pursuit of power.


    As Jayce rose from the bed, he made a mental note to reinstate his workout regime once the game descended upon the real world. It was time to rebuild his physical strength, to regain the vitality that had been sacrificed for his virtual ambitions.


    After all, he would have to fight with his body in this world. If he could barely hold his sword, he would be as good as dead.


    With renewed determination, Jayce strode towards the familiar sight of his gaming pod. This would be his final entry into the world of Cataclysm, thest push to reach level 100 before the apocalypse brought about irreversible changes.


    Entering the pod, he closed his eyes and prepared himself for the immersion. The familiar hum of the technology enveloped him, and as he opened his eyes in the virtual world, he felt a surge of excitement. This was his moment, his chance to seize the power he sought.


    Honestly, he wasn''t even sure that he would receive an additional ss option if he reached level 100. But there was nothing he could do now, having put all of his eggs in this one basket.

 Chapter 5: New Class

    <h4>Chapter 5: New ss</h4>


    Jayce''s sword cleaved through the air, its sharp edge meeting the scaly hide of the giant lizard. The creature roared in fury, its massive body writhing in pain. With each strike, Jayce''s determination grew, his movements bing more fluid and precise.


    Sweat dripped down his brow as he pressed on, his muscles screaming in protest. He knew that this battle was crucial, the final step before reaching max level. The lizard''s ferocious attacks battered against his defenses, but Jayce stood firm, refusing to yield.


    With one final, decisive blow, Jayce brought down the towering reptile, its lifeless body crashing to the ground. The air was thick with tension as he stood amidst the aftermath of the battle, his heart pounding in his chest.


    And then, a surge of power coursed through his being. The familiar notification shed before his eyes, illuminating the virtual world.


    [Congrattions. You have reached level 100.]


    The monotonous words echoed in his mind, a testament to his unwavering determination.


    But before the announcement could fully register, an unexpected disturbance shook the very fabric of the game. Jayce felt a jolt, a disorienting sensation that tore him from the virtual reality. His eyes snapped open, and he found himself back in his pod, surrounded by the cold, sterile walls.


    Confusion washed over him as he listened to the chaotic symphony of sounds outside. An explosion reverberated through the building, followed by the crackling of electrical surges. Fear gripped his heart as he realized that the merging of worlds had started.


    Acting on instinct, Jayce swiftly unstrapped himself from the pod, his body protesting against the sudden movement after hours of inactivity. He stumbled out of the pod, his legs weak and unsteady.


    The next moment, an electromaic pulse assaulted the building, breaking all of his windows and throwing his frail body against the wall. The pod which he was just in began to crackle as the electricity surged within itsponents.


    It waspletely fried, never to be used again. Jayce waited a few moments, ready for the monotonous voice of the system to ring in his head once more.


    [Choose your ss]


    Jayce looked at the words floating in front of him. Hoping and praying that reaching the max level as a Swordsman would unlock a new and powerful ss.


    ''Come on. Give me Master Swordsman or something powerful'' he thought inwardly. His past 3 months of toil would be for nothing if there was not a new ss option.


    [ss: Chef has been chosen]


    [Initializing system¡­ Please stand-by]


    "W-Wait what? I didn''t even get a choice!"


    He stared at the loading bar in front of him with a stupefied expression on his face, not knowing whether tough or cry.


    "What the hell kind of ss is Chef?"


    In Cataclysm, there were subsses that yers could choose based on their preferences. If he remembered correctly, there was a subss called "Cook" which allowed yers to prepare food which healed and gave temporary stat boosts to those who consumed them.


    His confusion turned to despair and his heart sunk. "All that grinding, only to be relegated to a Chef. Is this some kind of sick joke?"


    "How am I going to fight monsters as a Chef?" Suddenly he imagined himself garbed in a chef jacket and donning a tall white hat, stabbing ferocious monsters with a kitchen knife.


    Momentster, the loading bar had finished, prompting the system''s voice to speak once more, its monotonous voice echoing inside of his mind.


    [Initialization Complete]


    Tiny sparks appeared around Jayce, blinding him for a moment, however he did not panic. He had experienced this phenomenon before, it was the starting equipment for his job ss being equipped by the system.


    All human''s received their starting gear after choosing their ss.


    Jayce''s eyes widened in disbelief as he nced down at his own body, now adorned with an unexpected attire. Instead of the battle-worn armor and weapons he had grown ustomed to, he found himself wearing something straight out of a busy restaurant''s kitchen.


    The outfit consisted of a pristine white double-breasted chef''s coat, adorned with intricate golden embroidery along the cuffs and cor. The fabric exuded an air of elegance, despite the chaotic circumstances that surrounded him. The coat wasplemented by a pair of tailored ck chef pants, their clean lines and sharp creases speaking of precision and attention to detail.


    On his feet, he wore polished ck leather shoes, theirces neatly tied. Each step he took was apanied by a soft squeak, as if the shoes themselves whispered of refinement and grace.


    Completing the ensemble was a traditional chef''s hat perched atop Jayce''s head, its pristine white fabric towering proudly. The hat was adorned with a golden emblem, shaped like a crossed knife and fork, symbolizing his culinary prowess.


    "What. The. F*ck"

 Chapter 6: Chef Class

    <h4>Chapter 6: Chef ss</h4>


    Jayce''s heart sank as despair washed over him like a tidal wave. The realization of his assigned ss, Chef, felt like a cruel joke. All those endless hours of grinding, pushing himself to the limits, all for naught. He had dreamt of acquiring a legendary ss, one that would grant him the power to carve a path through the impending apocalypse.


    In his mind''s eye, he had envisioned himself as a master swordsman, his de gleaming with an otherworldly light as he single-handedly felled hordes of monsters. He had imagined himself as a revered warrior, leading the charge against the forces of darkness, bing a beacon of hope for the remnants of humanity.


    But fate had dealt him a different hand, one that left him feeling helpless and lost. The title of a chef, once a cherished dream, now felt like a bitter reminder of a past life that had been shattered by the cataclysmic events that unfolded. The world he had known was no more, reced by a harsh and unforgiving reality.


    With a heavy sigh, Jayce mustered the strength to open his status screen, hoping against hope that there might be something positive amidst the ruins of his shattered aspirations. His eyes, still listless, scanned the screen for any glimmer of encouragement.


    Name: Jayce


    Title: N/A


    ss: Chef


    Subss: N/A


    Level: 1


    EXP: 0/100


    Health 100/100


    Mana: 50/50


    Strength: 2


    Dexterity: 2


    Intelligence: 1


    Vitality: 3


    Luck: 20


    Stat points: 0


    Jayce''s eyes narrowed with determination as he surveyed his meager stat allocation. The numbers before him, a mere total of 8, sent a surge of disgust coursing through his veins. Compared to his previous ss as a Swordsman, even at level 1, this Chef ss seemed pitifully weak. He could almost taste the bitterness of disappointment rising in his throat.


    The most significant changey in his Luck stat, standing at a total of 20. It was a peculiar twist of fate, yet Luck had always been an intangible attribute, its benefits elusive and uncertain.


    "Why must I be burdened with such a fate?" Jayce muttered, his voice tinged with frustration. This second chance at life was supposed to be an opportunity to forge a new path, to rise above the challenges of the new world. But now, it seemed as though the odds were stacked against him, leaving him the weakest individual on Earth.


    Refusing to sumb to despair, Jayce swiftly shifted his focus, hoping against hope that there might be a glimmer ofbat-rted skills that could salvage his situation. His gaze settled on the skills column, his heart yearning for a shred of hope.


    Skills:


    Basic Cooking (lvl. 1) - Allows the creation of simple dishes with minor beneficial effects.


    Ingredient Analysis (lvl. 1) - Ability to discern the properties and quality of ingredients.


    Taste Enhancement (lvl. 1) - Enhances the vor and nutritional value of prepared dishes.


    VIP15 (max) - Your luck is increased. Small chance of converting temporary stat boosts to permanent


    As he scanned the skills before him, the budding hope was swiftly extinguished. Each skill listed was centered around nonbat abilities, each one rted to the culinary arts. A deep sigh escaped Jayce''s lips, his disappointment palpable.


    "What is this... garbage?" he muttered, his voiceced with frustration and disbelief. He scrutinized the golden-colored VIP15 skill with a confused look.


    "Perhaps there''s a silver lining in this skill... but without anybat abilities, how can I hope to survive?" Jayce''s voice resonated with resolve, his mind steeling itself against the overwhelming odds. Ten years spent navigating the unforgivingndscape of the apocalypse had honed his mental fortitude. He knew that dwelling on the negatives could only spell his downfall.


    "I don''t have time to wallow in self-pity," Jayce dered, his frown deepening. The challenges thaty ahead demanded his attention and unwavering determination.


    The world around him plunged into an abyss of chaos, the air thick with impending danger. Jayce''s instincts screamed for him to find shelter, to seek refuge from the hordes of bloodthirsty monsters that now littered the once familiar streets.


    Memories flooded his mind, memories of the initial cmity that had turned the world upside down. In those terrifying early days, he had cowered in fear, desperately evading the clutches of merciless goblins that hunted the vulnerable survivors. It was only at the break of dawn that he stumbled upon an underground shelter, a beacon of hope in a sea of despair.


    With every ounce of determination, Jayce raced forward, his feet pounding against the pavement as he made his way toward the underground haven. His heart beat in sync with the rhythm of his footsteps, a resolute symphony of survival.


    Jayce''s heart raced as he sprinted through the chaotic streets, the symphony of screams and terror echoing in his ears. Desperation filled his voice as he tried to warn others, to guide them to safety, but his cries fell on deaf ears. The terror-stricken survivors, their faces etched with fear, rushed past him, their gazes locked in a haunting dance with the horrors that pursued them.


    With a heavy sigh of disappointment, Jayce shook his head, a profound sense of pity welling within him. Their panic had consumed them, rendering them blind to the voice of reason. Undeterred, he pressed forward, his determination unyielding, his eyes fixed on the sanctuary that beckoned him.


    The neglected muscles of his body protested vehemently, aching and protesting against the sudden exertion after months of neglect. But Jayce pushed through the pain, fueled by the urgency of the moment. Each step he took brought him closer to the shelter, his mind focused on reaching its rtive safety.


    As he raced forward, an unexpected sight caught his attention¡ªa woman huddled against a wall, her expression one of despair. She wore a flowing green robe, its fabric a stark contrast to the bleakness that surrounded them. A staffy on the ground before her, a symbol of her calling.


    Jayce''s eyes widened in surprise, a flicker of recognition igniting within him. In his previous life, he had witnessed this woman''s lifeless body lying in the streets, her fate sealed in the chaos that had consumed their world.


    Unbeknownst to him at the time, the green robes she wore signified her as a Cleric, a formidable healer and guardian of life. In the waning days before his own demise, there had been only five healers on the entire continent, their worth surpassing that of ten thousand swordsmen.


    His steps faltered, his body frozen in ce as he contemted his next move. The woman''s despair tugged at his heart, and a profound realization dawned upon him. In this ravaged world, the presence of a healer was a rare and invaluable gift.

 Chapter 7: First Fight

    <h4>Chapter 7: First Fight</h4>


    Before Jayce could reach out to offer aid, a monstrous goblin jumped down from a fallen building, and stared at him ferociously. Its emaciated figure stood at a mere four feet in height, its green skin mottled with filth and decay. Sharp grotesque teeth protruded from its twisted mouth, while its pointed ears twitched with an otherworldly malevolence. Its sinister green eyes glimmered with a feral hunger, mirroring the darkness that had consumed the world.


    Time seemed to slow as Jayce''s eyes widened in horror, his instincts screaming for action. He had killed plenty of Goblins in his previous life, however, now he felt weak. His body that was merely 18 years old with no training whatsoever, left him feeling less than confident in his abilities.


    Out of habit, he reached behind his back to retrieve his sword, only to grasp at nothing. The reality of his new ss hit him like a crushing blow. He was no longer a Swordsman, a ss he had honed and mastered through years of dedication. His proficiency with the de was now rendered useless in this desperate moment.


    With a curse that echoed in his mind, Jayce quickly essed his inventory, his hands trembling with urgency. His gaze scanned the list, searching desperately for any weapon that could aid him in this dire situation. And then he saw it¡ªa single word that offered a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos. "Chef''s Knife."


    Disregarding its description, he dismissed any doubts and summoned the weapon with a mere thought. As his hand extended, a sh of light enveloped it, materializing into a sleek and slender de. But to his surprise, what appeared in his grasp was not just any knife¡ªit was a Sashimi Knife.


    Jayce''s eyes widened in disbelief as he held the elegant de in his hand. Its polished surface glinted with a hint of danger, a gleaming invitation to seize control of his destiny. The exquisite craftsmanship of the de was evident, its keen edge promising precision and effectiveness. However, he couldn''t help but feel a mix of confusion and frustration. What use would a chef''s knife be in a battle against a monstrous goblin?


    ''Damn it. Here goes nothing.'' he cursed inwardly.


    With a resigned determination, he tightened his grip around the unconventional weapon, his mind racing for strategies to turn this situation to his advantage. He had to make every strike count, every movement precise and calcted.


    The goblin, sensing an opportunity, lunged forward with a guttural snarl. Its ws swiped through the air, hungering for Jayce''s flesh. In a desperate maneuver, he dodged to the side, narrowly evading the deadly assault. The speed and agility of his movements appalled him.


    His stats were so subpar that he had to use all of his strength just to dodge an attack of a goblin. He almost cried in despair as his muscles protested wildly against the unfamiliar movements.


    He slowly got to his feet, dead tired from his expenditure already. His eyes shed with determination, driving out the panic that was bubbling beneath the surface.


    Experience would be what would win him this fight, not his stats. Having fought hundreds of goblins before, he knew their attacking pattern like the back of his hand. Now that he knew his body''s capabilities, orck thereof, he could start his assault.


    Crouching slightly, Jayce prepared for the oing Goblin with a dangerous glint in his eyes. The Chef''s hat on his head swaying slowly in the breeze. As he predicted, the Goblin lunged with its right hand outstretched, its razor sharp ws threatening to disembowel him.


    Like a seasoned matador, baiting a charging bull, he sidestepped cleanly, kicking up some dust in the process and leaving the Goblin open to an attack.


    Seizing the opening, Jayce retaliated with a swift and precise strike, his Sashimi Knife arcing through the air. The de sliced cleanly through the goblin''s right arm with no resistance, eliciting a high-pitched screech of pain. Crimson blood sprayed, staining the already grimy surroundings.


    The goblin recoiled in agony, its emerald eyes burning with a newfound fury. It lunged once more, its movements fueled by a primitive rage. Once again Jayce performed the same move, his heart pounding in his chest as he danced with death.


    With each sh, the goblin''s grotesque figure became more disfigured, its emaciated frame trembling under the onught of Jayce''s precise counters. The Sashimi Knife, though an unconventional weapon, proved to be a deadly extension of his will, each stroke executed with the precision of a master chef.


    Sweat poured down Jayce''s brow as he continued to engage in this harrowing dance of life and death. His muscles strained and burned, but he pushed through the pain, fueled by a newfound determination. The echoes of his battle mingled with the screams and chaos that enveloped the city, their cacophony filling his ears.


    Before long, the disfigured Gobliny on the ground, bright red blood flowing from where its limbs used to be. However there was no fear in its eyes, showcasing the madness andck of intelligence that this type of monster had.


    Willing his sore muscles to move, he walked forward and stood over the grotesque monster, a look of disgust in his eyes. With one swift movement, he separated its head from its body, putting an end to its life.


    [You have in a Goblin]


    [100 EXP Gained]


    [Congrattions, you have leveled up!]

 Chapter 8: Lianna

    <h4>Chapter 8: Lianna</h4>


    Jayce half listened to the monotonous voice of the system which confirmed the death of the Goblin. Having no time to check his status window, he drew his attention to the woman who was still huddled in a ball, caught up in her own despair.


    "Oi! We can''t stay here any longer."


    Gingerly walking over, he tried to get her attention.


    The woman raised her head slightly, her pale face was fraught with fear and eyes wet with tears.


    "N-No, stay away!" she shouted. Picking up the staff in front of her and pointing it in his direction.


    Jayce sighed and shook his head. They didn''t have a lot of time until the whole street would be flooded with goblins and other monsters.


    "Look, I just saved you from this monster." he said, gesturing to the decapitated goblin on the ground next to him. "If we don''t hurry, there will be more of these monsters mbering in the streets."


    With a touch of urgency, he moved forward once more, grimacing from the pain in his muscles. He tried to act patiently and not scare the woman in front of him.


    Reaching out his hand slowly, he asked. "What''s your name?"


    The woman raised her head and looked in his eyes, fear and desperation painting her features. Now that he had gotten a closer look at her, Jayce could tell that she was young, possibly younger than his himself in this life.


    Her fairplexion held a hint of a rosy blush, entuating her delicate features. Long, lustrous locks cascaded down her back, flowing like a waterfall of ebony silk. Despite the weariness etched on her face, there was a certain purity and innocence that remained untarnished.


    She hesitated for a moment, her voice trembling as she whispered, "My name is Lianna."


    "Lianna, will youe with me to find shelter?" he asked softly. "I can exin the situation once we get there."


    Jayce''s voice carried a soothing tone, attempting to alleviate the woman''s fears. He understood the urgency of the situation, the imminent danger lurking in the shadows. The streets were no longer safe, teeming with goblins and other malevolent creatures hungry for blood.


    Lianna''s eyes darted between Jayce''s outstretched hand and the lifeless goblin at his feet. The turmoil in her expression revealed the internal struggle she was facing. Yet, something in Jayce''s demeanor instilled a flicker of trust within her.


    With a quivering breath, she cautiously extended her hand, her delicate fingers interlocking with Jayce''s. The connection felt warm and reassuring, like a lifeline amidst the chaos surrounding them.


    Together, they began their trek through the darkened streets, their footsteps hastened by a sense of urgency. Jayce''s muscles protested with every step, reminders of the arduous battle he had fought. But he pushed forward, fueled by determination and the responsibility he felt towards Lianna''s safety.


    Thankfully they had yet to meet any more goblins or other monsters that could pose them a threat, otherwise he wasn''t sure if they could survive in his current state.


    As they navigated thebyrinthine alleyways, Jayce stole asional nces at Lianna. Her presence was captivating, her ebony tresses swaying with each graceful movement. Her vulnerability tugged at his heart, urging him to protect and guide her through this treacherous world.


    "Ah, it''s in here." Jayce prompted, pointing to a set of stairs.


    Jayce stood before the set of stairs that led down into the depths of the underground building. With a determined expression, he prompted Lianna to follow him, taking her hand firmly in his. Together, they descended into the hidden refuge, their footsteps echoing through the dimly lit passageway.


    Reaching the bottom, Jayce rapped his knuckles against the heavy door, a plea for sanctuary. A hushed tension filled the air as they awaited a response, their lives hanging in the bnce. After what felt like an eternity, a smallpartment of the door opened, revealing a pair of green eyes scrutinizing them with cautious intent.


    "We''re humans, please let us in," Jayce spoke, his voice carrying the weight of desperation and hope.


    Without uttering a word, the door swung open, revealing a burly figure standing before them. His massive frame exuded an air of authority, his presencemanding respect. A kite shield restedfortably on his back, a silent testament to his role as protector.


    "Hurry and get in," the man''s voice resonated with urgency, his eyes scanning the staircase behind them. The imminent danger hanging in the air was palpable, urging them to quicken their pace.


    Jayce wasted no time, gently guiding Lianna through the open doorway and into the makeshift shelter. As they stepped inside, the scene that unfolded before them was one of both chaos and resilience. The underground space, once a vibrant club, had been transformed into a haven of survival.


    Approximately thirty individuals upied the room, their faces etched with varying degrees of fear and exhaustion. Some sat huddled together, nursing wounds, while others cast wary nces at the entrance, ever vignt for the encroaching threats of the outside world.


    Jayce''s eyes scanned the room, assessing the state of their newfound sanctuary. It was a fragile oasis, a refuge against the relentless storm that raged above. The smell of dampness mingled with the scent of determination, an amalgamation of hope and desperation that filled the air.


    In the dim light, makeshift beds and supplies were scattered throughout the space, serving as a testament to the resourcefulness of those who sought sce within these walls. Despite the hardships they faced, a sense of unity prevailed¡ªa collective will to defy the darkness that threatened to consume them.

 Chapter 9: You want me to Cook?

    <h4>Chapter 9: You want me to Cook?</h4>


    Jayce recognized some of the people from his previous life. The guardian who had answered the door was named Colin, he was the owner of the club and had single-handedly saved most of the people that were present in the club.


    He was the one who had found him after a harrowing night of survival on the streets and guided him to the makeshift sanctuary previously. Jayce gazed over at Colin with a look of gratitude, he never thought he would see this man once more.


    Unfortunately, he gave up his life to evacuate the survivors when¡­


    There was no point in thinking about that now, Jayce''s face lit up with determination. He would not let history repeat itself, losing a good man who did not deserve to die.


    As they settled into seats to catch their breath, a middle-aged woman approached them. Her gentle blue eyes and shoulder-length brown hair marked her as Jackie, Colin''s wife. She wore a flowing blue robe, signifying her ss as an Ice Mage. Jayce remembered her well¡ªkind-hearted and always ready to lend a helping hand.


    "Hi, I''m Jackie. Are you two okay?" Jackie''s voice carried genuine concern.


    Jayce nodded, his gaze filled with appreciation. "I''m Jayce, and this is Lianna. We''re alright. Thankfully, we only had to face one Goblin."


    Jackie''s face turned pale, her eyes widening in disbelief. "A Goblin? You fought one of those creatures?"


    Her voice carried enough volume to catch the attention of those nearby. Suddenly, all eyes were on Jayce, the weight of their scrutiny making him flush with embarrassment.


    Colin, drawn by his wife''s rmed tone, approached the group. Despite his imposing stature, Jayce knew him to be a man of kindness andpassion.


    With a deep voiceced with doubt, Colin asked, "You mentioned fighting a Goblin?"


    Before Jayce could respond, Lianna, who had been silent until now, found her voice. Her timid nature seemingly forgotten, she spoke up in Jayce''s defense. "Yes, he did. I saw it with my own eyes. Jayce slew a Goblin with a Sashimi knife."


    Gasps and whispers filled the room at Lianna''s revtion. While most had only heard of the Goblins'' might from Colin and others, few had witnessed the creatures firsthand.


    Jayce looked at Lianna with surprise, a smile of gratitude tugging at his lips. Her unexpected support bolstered his spirit. "It was luck. I''m truly not that strong," he humbly admitted.


    Colin shook his head, his expression filled with curiosity. "Luck alone would not be enough to kill one of those creatures. What is your ss?"


    A sour taste settled in Jayce''s mouth as he hesitated. The truth of his assigned ss left a bitter aftertaste. "Chef," he responded, his voice tinged with disappointment. "I didn''t get to choose my ss. It was assigned to me."


    The room fell into an ufortable silence, the air heavy with skepticism and confusion. Murmurs rippled through the survivors as they exchanged puzzled nces. Doubt hung in the air like a heavy fog.


    Colin cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "Ahem, that''s fine. It might even work in our favor. Would you be able to prepare a meal for everyone here?" he asked, his voice tinged with a glimmer of hope.


    Jayce''s eyes widened at the unexpected request, a mix of nervousness and determination settling within him. "Ah, sure, I can give it a try," he replied, his voiceced with newfound confidence.


    His mind raced with thoughts. Though his previous attempts at cooking had been less than sessful, he reminded himself that he was a chef by ss, and chefs knew how to cook. Taking a deep breath, he offered himself a self-assured pep talk.


    Gratitude shone in Colin''s eyes as he directed Jayce to the kitchen, leaving Jackie to attend to Lianna. Jayce stepped into the culinary domain, his gaze sweeping over the array of cooking apparatuses that greeted him. Some were unfamiliar, their purpose shrouded in mystery, and a sense of unease washed over him.


    "There is no electricity, so you''ll have to cook with gas. That shouldn''t be a problem, right?" Colin''s voice carried a hint of reassurance, echoing Jayce''s own silent relief.


    ''Ah, thank goodness,'' Jayce thought to himself, the absence of electricity simplifying his task. With a stove at his disposal, he felt a glimmer of confidence rekindle within him. Cooking on gas should be manageable... or so he hoped.


    "Let me know if you need anything else," Colin offered with a warm smile, his presence radiating support, before exiting the room.


    Before he started, he wanted to check out his status since gaining a level. With a thought he brought up his status window.


    Name: Jayce


    Title: N/A


    ss: Chef


    Subss: N/A


    Level: 2


    EXP: 0/200


    Health 70/120


    Mana: 60/60


    Strength: 3


    Dexterity: 3


    Intelligence: 2


    Vitality: 4


    Luck: 20


    Stat Points: 7


    ''Not too bad.'' he thought with a small smile. When he was a Swordsman, he would be given 5 additional stat points to assign per level, yet now he had 7!


    While this didn''t seem like much, it would add up over time. It may even be enough to bridge the gap in starting stats andck ofbat skills if he was prudent enough.

 Chapter 10: First Dish

    <h4>Chapter 10: First Dish</h4>


    Jayce decided to leave his unspent stat points for now, as he was unsure which stat would be most useful for his new ss.


    His eyes moved down to his skills, seeing if anything would help him out of his current predicament.


    Skills:


    Basic Cooking (lvl. 1) - Allows the creation of simple dishes with minor beneficial effects.


    Ingredient Analysis (lvl. 1) - Ability to discern the properties and quality of ingredients.


    Taste Enhancement (lvl. 1) - Enhances the vor and nutritional value of prepared dishes.


    VIP15 (max) - Your luck is increased. Small chance of converting temporary stat boosts to permanent


    Jayce stood in the kitchen, his brows furrowed in concentration. "Ingredient Analysis. How does that work?" he mumbled, casting his gaze around the room.


    Resting on the countertop was a whole chicken, its plucked and gutted form ready for cooking. Determined to activate his new skill, Jayce narrowed his eyes and reached out to touch the poultry, bracing himself for the unknown.


    To his surprise, a small window materialized before his eyes, revealing the insights of his Ingredient Analysis skill.


    [Chicken - High in protein, good nutritional value]


    Jayce let out a breath of relief. "Ah, so it''s activated by touch," he muttered, relieved that he wouldn''t be bombarded with status windows every time he looked at something edible. The inconvenience of touch activation was a small price to pay for the valuable information it provided.


    With his newfound understanding, Jayce continued his exploration of the kitchen. His eyesnded on a collection of vegetables nearby, beckoning him to uncover their secrets.


    [Carrot - Good nutritional value]


    [Onion - Good vor and nutrition, can make you cry]


    [Green Beans - Good nutritional value]


    He gathered these ingredients, their properties now revealed to him. Piling them onto the counter, Jayce took a step back, contemting his next move. While he was satisfied with his ability to analyze the ingredients, he faced a new challenge¡ªhe had little knowledge of cooking techniques or recipes to follow.


    As if in response to his dilemma, a prompt materialized before his eyes, offering a potential solution.


    [Possible dishes: Chicken Vegetable Soup +2 Vitality for 1 hour]


    His eyes widened in pleasant surprise. "Ah, excellent," he eximed, a glimmer of excitement igniting within him.


    In front of his eyes was a simple recipe with step by step procedures, causing him to let out a sigh of relief. If he had to wing it, he was afraid that he would destroy a perfectly good chicken, possibly causing a rebellion within the shelter.


    He grabbed a knife and began to chop the vegetables as instructed. To his surprise, his knife skills were decent, causing him some confusion.


    Jayce suddenly thought of a possibility, quickly essing his inventory.


    Chef Jacket:


    Stats: +5 Charisma


    Functionality: The Chef Jacket provides excellent protection against kitchen mishaps and minor physical hazards, reducing the chance of injury while preparing meals. Its high-quality fabric resists stains and heat, keeping the wearerfortable even in intense cooking situations.


    Chef Hat:


    Stats: +5 Focus, +5 knife skills


    Functionality: The Chef Hat amplifies the wearer''s mental acuity, enhancing their ability to analyze ingredients and recipes. It grants a bonus to intelligence, improving memory and enabling quick thinking during culinary tasks. The hat''s enchantments promote focus and concentration, allowing the chef to maintain precision and attention to detail while multitasking in the kitchen.


    Comfy Chef Shoes:


    Stats: +5 Stamina


    Functionality: The Comfy Chef Shoes prioritize the chef''s mobility and physical endurance. The shoes'' cushioned soles provide shock absorption, reducing fatigue and strain on the chef''s feet and legs during long hours of standing and movement. The bonus to stamina helps the chef maintain energy and endurance, enabling them to work efficiently without sumbing to exhaustion.


    Chef''s Knife:


    Stats: +15 Attack, +10 Precision


    Functionality: The Chef''s Knife is a versatile and formidable tool in the hands of a skilled chef. Its exceptional sharpness and bnce allow for precise cuts and efficient ingredient preparation. The knife''s increased attack stat grants bonus damage against ingredients and certain cooking-rted enemies encountered in the game. Its enchantments enhance precision, enabling the chef to execute intricate slicing techniques and achieve consistent results. The Chef''s Knife is an indispensablepanion for culinary mastery, ensuring the chef can create dishes with impable precision and presentation.


    Like he thought, his beginner gear was not good forbat. However it looked like it would definitely help him out in the kitchen.


    Shaking his head, he continued to chop the vegetables, making use of his newfound knife skills. After he was finished he put it in the pot and began to saute the ingredients.


    ***


    The captivating aroma of the Chicken Vegetable Soup permeated the shelter, luring its inhabitants with its mouthwatering fragrance. The scent drifted through the air like a seductive melody, reaching the nostrils of those seeking sce and nourishment.


    [Congrattions, you have prepared "Chicken Vegetable Soup"]


    Jayce wiped the perspiration from his brow, feeling a surge of aplishment wash over him. This meal, crafted with his own hands, was a testament to his culinary skills. It marked a significant milestone in his journey, a departure from the monotonous days of surviving on instant noodles. As his stomach growled in anticipation, he reveled in the joy of a genuine feast.


    Curiosity piqued, Lianna''s petite figure appeared at the kitchen doorway. Her adorable nose twitched, catching the alluring aroma of the Chicken Vegetable Soup.


    "Go fetch Colin, the food is ready," Jayce instructed with a beaming smile.


    In no time, a line of hungry souls formed outside the kitchen, each person clutching a bowl, eagerly awaiting their turn. With genuine care andpassion, Colin graciouslydled the nourishing soup into their empty vessels, embodying the spirit of a true guardian.


    Once every individual had received their portion, Colin presented Jayce with a sizable bowl, gratitude reflecting in his eyes. "Thanks for your hard work."


    Jayce epted the bowl with gratitude before dipping his spoon into the soup, savoring its divine essence. "Whoa, this is actually delicious!" he eximed, his pride swelling with each vorful spoonful.


    Colin arched an eyebrow, bemused by Jayce''s reaction. "Did you doubt its oue?" he inquired, his expression one of mild confusion.


    "N-No, of course not," Jayce stammered, attempting to conceal his initial uncertainty. "I knew it would turn out this way. Ha ha."


    Before further discussion could ensue, amotion erupted from the main room. Both Colin and Jayce hastened to investigate, their curiosity piqued. What they witnessed was a sea of satisfied faces, alive with joy and satiation.


    "Oh my god, this is delicious!"


    "It''s revitalizing my strength!"


    "Are we in the realm of the divine?"


    Expressions of contentment andpliments filled the room, as the meal had cast its enchantment on the shelter''s inhabitants.


    "Thank you, Chef!" One person raised his bowl in salute, gratitude emanating from his features.


    Jayce blushed, feeling a sense of embarrassment mingled with gratitude. This newfound ss of his had proven itself worthy. For the first time, he realized that being a chef in the midst of an apocalypse held unexpected value.


    A part of him that had long been suppressed had resurfaced, reigniting the me of his aspiration to be a renowned chef. Perhaps, even in this harsh world, his culinary skills could bring moments of sce and happiness to those in need.


    However, was there a use for someone like him? A Chef in an Apocalypse?

 Chapter 11: Rubick

    <h4>Chapter 11: Rubick</h4>


    Jayce, Lianna, Colin, and Jackie sat together in a rare moment of silence, savoring the vors of the vegetable soup that warmed their bodies. The rhythmic sound of slurping intermittently punctuated the tranquility surrounding them.


    As Jayce emptied his bowl, a sudden notification materialized before his eyes.


    [You have consumed Chicken Vegetable Soup. Vitality increased by +2 for 1 hour]


    [Your skill VIP15 has made this boost permanent]


    ...


    "Jackpot!" Jayce''s heart leapt with excitement. This was the moment he had been waiting for. The snickers and jeers from those who mocked him for using daddy''s credit card now seemed insignificant inparison.


    With an ear-to-ear grin adorning his face, Jayce couldn''t help but feel a surge of pride. However, he masked his tion with a modest smile when Colin raised an eyebrow inquisitively.


    "You seem quite pleased with yourself," Colin remarked, curiositycing his words.


    "Oh, it''s nothing," Jayce replied with a coy smile, downying the significance of his achievement.


    [Ahem, can you hear me? Testing, 1, 2.]


    Then, a voice resonated within Jayce''s mind, startling him to his feet. He scanned the room, searching for the source of the unexpectedmunication, his expression filled with astonishment. It felt reminiscent of the system''s monotonous voice, yet distinctively different¡ªlively and yful.


    "Jayce, what''s wrong?" Colin asked, his concern evident as he rose to his feet, gripping his sturdy kite shield with resolve.


    [Wee to Cmity: World''s End expansion]


    Jayce''s eyes widened in trepidation, his mind racing as he listened to the voice echoing in his head. Seeking reassurance, he turned to hispanions and asked, "Can you hear that voice too?"


    Confusion etched on their faces, Jackie and Lianna exchanged nces before shaking their heads in unison.


    Before he could figure out what was going on, the voice continued.


    [First of all, I''d like to thank those of you who have made this possible. Your support is greatly appreciated.]


    The voice sounded sincere, however there was a malicious undertone that could be heard beneath the flowery words. Jayce was shocked, this had not happened in his previous life, making him confused and disoriented.


    [Don''t worry, you''re not going crazy. Only our supporters can hear my voice right now, let''s call it a little perk for helping us out.]


    ''Supporter? How did I support this?''


    [We will put up a list of our supporters so you can see and even message each other should you be so inclined. However, please do not tell those around you of your status, otherwise I''m afraid we will have to¡­ Permanently ban your ount.]


    Jayce paled at the mention of a perma ban. Considering the game had merged with the real world, he could only assume that a permanent ban would mean getting killed.


    Suddenly a list materialized in front of Jayce, stunning him.


    Let Me Cook - ss: Chef


    Steel Heart - ss: Guardian


    Shadowstrike - ss: Shadow Assassin


    mecaster - ss: Inferno Mage


    Swift Arrow - ss: Ranger


    Stone Hammer - ss: Pdin


    Storm Caller - ss: Sorcerer


    Divine Healer - ss: Cleric


    Iron Fist - ss: Berserk Monk


    Life Warden - ss: Druid


    Arcane de - ss: Spellsword


    Songweaver - ss: Bard


    Voidwalker - ss: Warlock


    Blood Reaper - ss: sher


    Frost Whisper - ss: Cryomancer


    ''What in the world is going on?'' Jayce''s mind raced as he tried toprehend the situation. The list of sses had left him baffled and unnerved. The fact that he saw his own name, "Let me Cook," at the top of the list only added to his anxiety.


    The implications of beingbeled as the game''s number one supporter filled him with a sense of dread. What would it mean for him? What were the prerequisites for such a role? Questions swirled in his mind, causing him to tug at his hair in frustration.


    As Jayce tried to make sense of his predicament, the list suddenly vanished, reced by a popup window. Before him appeared a mysterious figure, shrouded in an air of enigma. The humanoid figure donned a mask and arge tophat, its ck jacket seeming to be made of swirling shadows. The mask bore a chilling smile with sharp teeth, while glowing red eyes peered through the eye holes, emanating an eerie aura.


    The figure gracefully bowed, its long and slender form adding to its ghostly appearance. It introduced itself as Rubick, captivating Jayce''s attention with a mix of curiosity and unease.


    Rubick''s voice resonated with amusement as it delivered its message.


    [For your efforts and as a reward, starting tomorrow morning at 8am, we will have a littlepetition to make things interesting] Rubick announced, relishing its position of power.


    Jayce felt a shiver run down his spine, uncertain of what thispetition entailed. The unsettling humanoid figure bid them farewell, blowing a sinister kiss before vanishing from his sight.


    Feeling a headacheing on, Jayce massaged his temples. ''What is happening?''

 Chapter 12: What’s your class?

    <h4>Chapter 12: What''s your ss?</h4>


    Colin observed Jayce''s tumultuous emotions, unsure of what to make of the unfolding events. He turned to his wife, Jackie, and Lianna, motioning for them to remain calm and patient, knowing that more would be revealed in due time.


    As Jayce turned his attention towards the others, his face drained of color, reflecting the inner turmoil he was experiencing. He found himself grappling with several unsettling revtions, each more perplexing than thest. There was much to unpack.


    First and foremost, this new development waspletely unprecedented in his previous life''s experience. The sudden appearance of the enigmatic figure known as "Rubick" and the subsequent revtion of the list of "Supporters" with their unique sses left Jayce in a state of bewilderment. Questions flooded his mind, seeking answers that eluded him.


    The fact that he upied the position of the number one supporter ignited a sense of unease within Jayce. What had brought him to this position of prominence? And more importantly, what were the implications and consequences that apanied it? He couldn''t help but suspect that his previous extravagant expenditures within the game were somehow responsible.


    Moreover, among the names on the supporters'' list, Jayce recognized a few familiar ones, most notably mecaster. In his previous life, mecaster stood as the unrivaled mage, renowned across Asia and serving as the guild leader of Inferno.


    Did this mean that simr events had urred in his past life as well? It was a possibility that Jayce couldn''t dismiss. After all, his previous abstention from spending any money in the game would exin hisck of knowledge about the concept of supporters. The looming threat of a "permanent ban" that Rubick had mentioned only served to further bolster this conjecture.


    Colin, who had maintained his silence throughout the tumultuous events, firmly grasped Jayce''s shoulders and shook him gently, concern etched on his rugged face. "Jayce, snap out of it. Tell me what''s troubling you," he implored, his voiceced with care and worry.


    Jayce, finally roused from his thoughts, met the gaze of the tall and stalwart man, the grip on his shoulders grounding him in the present. "Ah, I apologize. My mind wandered for a moment," he replied after a brief pause.


    A furrow appeared on Colin''s brow, his expression growing more serious. "What upied your thoughts to elicit such intense emotions?" he pressed, his concern unwavering.


    Letting out a deep sigh, Jayce gestured for everyone to take a seat, signaling the beginning of his exnation. "Let me start from the beginning," he said, his voice steady yet burdened.


    As the group settled, Jayce embarked on his ount of Cataclysm''s descent upon Earth, meticulously recounting the profound changes it had wrought upon the world. He carefully omitted any mention of his own time-travel experiences, as well as the enigmatic Rubick and the list of supporters. Instead, he focused on conveying the magnitude of the situation at hand. Their future would never resemble the past, and all technological advancements reliant on electricity had been rendered obsolete.


    Ensuring his narrative remained grounded in reality, Jayce observed the faces of Jackie and Lianna pale, their expressions shifting with growing unease. In contrast, Colin''s features hardened, his rugged countenance resolute.


    "So, you''re saying this Cataclysm game has materialized in our world?" Jackie spoke slowly, herplexion draining of color, her voiceced with trepidation.


    Jayce nodded, his eyes reflecting the weight of the truth. "Yes, that is indeed the case. I don''t fullyprehend the mechanics behind it, but it''s an undeniable reality we now face. Has anyone else here yed this game before?"


    He hoped that at least one person among them had some familiarity with Cataclysm, as it would undoubtedly ease the process ofprehension and adaptation.


    Lianna, her face pale and fragile, raised her gaze to meet Jayce''s. "I... I have yed the game before. My friend had been persistently urging me to join," she replied softly, her voice carrying a tinge of vulnerability.


    Colin and Jackie shook their heads simultaneously, their unfamiliarity with the game noting as a surprise given their age and interests.


    "Alright, that''s a good start," Jayce acknowledged, his voice carrying a serious undertone.


    "If we want to survive in this new world, we need to discover everyone''s ss and ensure they are familiar with their skills and abilities," Jayce emphasized, making sure the trio understood the gravity of the situation.


    Colin nodded in agreement. "I''ll go and gather that information from everyone," he dered before making his way to the main room.


    Jackie spoke up, herplexion showing a hint of color returning. "I am a mage. My skills include Ice Lance, which allows me to hurl sharp icicles at enemies, and Chill Aura, which emits a chilling aura to slow down nearby foes." Her voice carried a mix of determination and apprehension.


    "Very good, You will need to practice these skills if you want to have any hope in battle."


    At the mention of battle, whatever color Jackie''s face had regained drained away once more.


    "How about you Lianna?" Jayce asked, even though he knew the answer already.


    "My ss is Cleric," Lianna responded, her voice soft but filled with determination. "I possess the healing abilities of Healing Light, which can mend wounds and restore vitality, and Blessing of Protection, which offers a shield of defense to our allies."


    Jayce smiled, admiration glimmering in his eyes. "Lianna, as a Cleric, you hold a crucial role in our group. Your healing prowess will be our lifeline in the midst of battles."


    It was as he expected, the woman he had seen dead in the streets in his previous life was actually a Cleric. Making it through the Apocalypse would be much easier with a healer like Lianna on his team.


    "Why don''t you try your Healing Light on me?" he said expectantly. His muscles were still sore from the earlier battle against the Goblin.

 Chapter 13: Next Steps

    <h4>Chapter 13: Next Steps</h4>


    Lianna hesitated for a moment before nodding her head. She walked over to Jayce and held out her hand, after a moment a golden light was released from her palm, bathing him in a warm glow.


    Jayce instantly felt rxed, afortable feeling spread through his body, easing his sore muscles and repairing the tears and bruises he had umted from the fight with the fierce goblin.


    [You have been healed - 50hp regenerated]


    "Good job!" Jayce shed a satisfied smile and a thumbs up for good measure.


    Seeing the chef''s hat flop around as if mirroring its wearers happy mood, Lianna held back a giggle and returned the thumbs up.


    Just then, Colin returned to the room, having gathered information from the others. He joined the conversation, sharing the sses and abilities of the other survivors.


    "We have a mix of sses among us," Colin announced. "Swordsmen and Mages make up most of our numbers, with a few archers, and only 2 other guardians besides myself."


    Jayce frowned a little, he wasn''t too surprised with the current mix of sses. It was the same as his previous life, as most people would choose either something cool or something familiar.


    A glint of determination flickered in his eyes. When he had been in the shelter in hisst life, Colin was forced to sacrifice himself to allow everyone to escape after this ce was discovered by the horde of Goblins.


    However this time would be different, he already knew it was possible to change the future in this life as he had already saved Lianna who would have likely been dead by now. Not to mention that he was no longer the same ss asst time.


    Remembering that he was no longer a swordsman, brought him a lot of exasperation. His 10 years of experience in the harsh world of Cataclysm would be useless to him.


    He wouldn''t be so dejected if his Chef ss was overpowered or held a significant advantage to his survival. However from what he could see, other than the 2 additional stat points he received for leveling up, everything else was just mediocre.


    The VIP15 skill was actually overpowered, but it had nothing to do with his new ss. He would have much rather had ess to that ability with his Swordsman ss, after all there would be plenty of things that could give him temporary stat boosts in the future.


    One advantage of having so much experience as a Swordsman was that he could train other Swordsmenfortably and confidently. It just so happened that it was one of the highest-picked sses in the world, well at least it was in his previous life.


    Shaking his head, he quickly recovered from his bout of depression. "Colin, can you separate the sses into groups? It''s time to start training." Jayce said firmly.


    Colin''s face showed a mix of emotions, "Uh, Jayce. These are just regr people, not warriors. I don''t think they''ll listen to you."


    "Ah." Jayce froze for a moment.


    These people had just experienced the beginning of the Apocalypse only a few hours beforehand. Perhaps some of them even thought that things would go back to normal in a few days, hell, some of them might not even know what has happened.


    He suddenly remembered what had been going through his brain on the first day of the Apocalypse all those years back. Even though he had picked the Swordsman ss, there was no point that he had utilized any of his skills while surviving his first night on the streets.


    His only thoughts were to run away and find shelter, away from the monsters that had suddenly appeared.


    Jayce thought for a moment before nodding. He would have to exin some things and set the mood so he could ensure these peoples survival. After all, if they stayed afraid and useless, Colin would once again sacrifice himself so they could escape.


    He sighed inwardly, it was time for him to perform. With a huge pping sound, Jayce brought both his hands up and pped both sides of his face, shocking the two girls who began to look at him weirdly. Without another word he walked into the main area and drew a few gazes.


    Jayce stood before the gathered survivors in the shelter, his eyes filled with determination and a sense of urgency. He took a deep breath, his voice resonating with conviction as he prepared to address them.


    "Listen, everyone," he began, his tonemanding their attention. "We are facing a crisis unlike anything we have ever known. The game Cataclysm: World''s End has descended upon our Earth, plunging us into a new reality where the world we once knew is no more. Our lives, our civilization, everything has changed... for the worse."

 Chapter 14: Impassioned Speech

    <h4>Chapter 14: Impassioned Speech</h4>


    He paused, letting his words sink in, the weight of the situation pressing upon their hearts. Faces stared back at him, filled with fear, confusion, and uncertainty. Jayce''s gaze swept across the room, searching for their reactions.


    "W-What is this nonsense you''re speaking about?" A middle-aged man called out, the fear evident in his voice.


    Jayce shook his head, not admonishing the man for his cowardice or confusion, but because he recognized the same emotion that he had once had all those years back. "I am speaking the truth. I can''t exin how or why this has happened, but this is now a fact."


    "I don''t expect you to ept this as a fact right at this moment, however you will soon see just what the world has be. What horrors are outside of these walls. What our Earth has now be." These words were said harshly.


    This paired with Jayce''s young face, should have been easy to dismiss as a joke or prank. However, the group could feel there was a grim and determined shadow beneath the youthful face.


    A few people shuddered, their fear rising from the pits of their stomachs. The things that they had only seen in movies and manga were reportedly happening to their own worlds.


    Before mass hysteria and panic could settle in, Jayce continued.


    "But let me tell you this," his voice rang with determination. "We cannot afford to sumb to despair. We must rise above the chaos and band together, for it is only through unity and cooperation that we stand a chance of surviving in this new world."


    A murmur spread through the crowd, the beginnings of understanding mingling with a glimmer of hope. Jayce pressed on, his words carrying the weight of his conviction.


    "Technology, as we know it, is useless now. Our reliance on it has been shattered. But we still possess something far more powerful¡ªour resilience, our ingenuity, and most importantly, our humanity. It is within us to adapt, to forge a new path in the face of adversity."


    He paced back and forth, his gestures emphasizing the gravity of their situation. "We must learn to rely on our own skills and strengths, to harness the sses and abilities bestowed upon us by the system. Each one of us has a role to y, a purpose that can contribute to our survival."


    Jayce''s voice swelled with passion, his words carrying an undeniable fervor. "No longer can we afford to be divided. We must cast aside our differences, our past grudges, and work together as one. We are all survivors in this new world, and it is through unity that we will find strength."


    He locked eyes with individuals in the crowd, his gaze filled with intensity. "We will face countless challenges, formidable enemies, and uncharted territories. But I believe in each and every one of you. We have the power to shape our own destiny, to carve a path through the chaos, and create a new future."


    Jayce''s words hung in the air, their impact resonating within the hearts of those who listened. A sense of determination and purpose began to fill the shelter, a spark of hope ignited in their eyes.


    "So I ask you, my fellow survivors," Jayce concluded, his voice ringing with unwavering resolve, "Will you stand with me? Will you fight alongside me, not just for our own survival, but for the rebuilding of a world we can be proud of? Together, we can conquer any challenge thates our way. Let us face this cataclysmic world head-on, hand in hand, and emerge victorious!"


    A wave of apuse erupted in the shelter, mingled with shouts of agreement and renewed determination. Jayce''s impassioned speech had struck a chord within their hearts, igniting a fire that would drive them forward.


    However Jayce did not hear them, his mind upied with something else.


    [Congrattions. You havepleted a Hidden Quest and received a skill]


    ''Huh? A hidden quest?''


    He opened the window, lost in thought and read the words.


    [Hidden Quest: Be the leader of a faction - Complete]


    Jayce frowned. He had never received a hidden quest before, only ever just normal quests that generally popped up when one came across a mob of monsters.


    Also when had he be the leader of a faction? ''Don''t tell me¡­'' he looked at the people in the room one at a time, noting the faces that were filled with reverence and respect towards him.


    He suddenly felt a headacheing on. He had never been the leader of anything, not even his own destiny. To be suddenly given such a responsibility felt like a heavy burden to shoulder.


    However when he looked at it objectively, with his knowledge and experience living in the apocalyptic world that Earth had be, it actually made sense. If he were to be leader, then he could steer these people in the right direction.


    Surprisingly, he had epted the position rather quickly, all things considered. Remembering the mention of a new skill acquisition, he quickly opened his status window and checked.


    Executive Chef (passive): As a faction leader, you are in charge of your kitchen and your staff. Your staff will share your temporary and permanent buffs, so long as they are within 100 meters of you.


    "Holy crap!"

 Chapter 15: Luck Stat

    <h4>Chapter 15: Luck Stat</h4>


    ''This maye in handy'' Jayce thought to himself briefly.


    Another thing that he had yet to consider, was if he could receive permanent stat boosts from the same item/power up or if it was limited to once. The only problem was, he didn''t even know the chances of his skill activating.


    The VIP15 skill''s description said there was a small chance of it activating, which was as vague as you could be. He had a suspicion that the chance of activation would also be linked to his luck value.


    Now that he thought about it, his Luck value was significantly higher in this life. There was not much known about this attribute in his previous life, at least general knowledge wise.


    Some believed it impacted the percentage of drops from monsters whereas others believed it was directly rted to one''s fate and karma.


    In Jayce''s experience, Luck was too fleeting and enigmatic to rely on. His other stats were more tangible, directly rting to his strength and therefore ability to survive.


    Not that it mattered that much, considering there was no way to increase the stat, at least through conventional means. There were rumors of yers obtaining items such as Ring of Luck and certain trinkets that could raise one''s Luck by a few points, however he had never seen these before.


    In an ideal world, he could increase his Luck stat with his stat points, using all of them to increase his chances of converting his temporary buffs into permanent ones. Not only would it greatly benefit himself, now that he had received the Executive Chef skill, any skill boosts or buffs he had, would be shared with his faction.


    Just imagining the infinite amount of boosts he could have, without even having to fight on the front lines caused him to grin widely. However, the next moment he shook his head. It was better not to fantasize about such things.


    But¡­ There were a few things that had changed since hisst life. He had reason to believe that there could be things that weren''t possible before but could be possible now.


    He brought up his status window, and narrowed his eyes.


    Name: Jayce


    Title: N/A


    ss: Chef


    Subss: N/A


    Level: 2


    EXP: 0/200


    Health 70/120


    Mana: 60/60


    Strength: 3


    Dexterity: 3


    Intelligence: 2


    Vitality: 4 (+2)


    Luck: 20


    Stat Points: 7


    ''Here goes nothing.'' With a thought, he willed the 7 avable stat points to be assigned to his luck stat.


    [...Luck stat increased]


    Health 70/120


    Mana: 60/60


    Strength: 3


    Dexterity: 3


    Intelligence: 2


    Vitality: 4 (+2)


    Luck: 27


    Stat Points: 0


    Jayce sucked in a sharp breath of air. ''Holy crap!''


    Not believing his eyes, he furiously rubbed them before taking a look once again. However, what greeted him was the same as before. After blinking a few times, he smiled with satisfaction.


    For the first time since he had been assigned the Chef ss, he actually felt optimistic. His VIP15 skill, paired with his upgradeable Luck attribute, and ability to produce foods that could give him stat boosts, he saw a path to the pinnacle of this world.


    Like a gamer who had found an exploit, Jayce''s body was filled with excitement. If he could steadily stack up attribute boosts, then he wouldn''t have to worry about his ss possessing anybat skills. After all, he could always acquire skill books down the line.


    Jayce finally snapped out of his reverie, feeling more than a few sets of eyes on him. He looked around the room, seeing the inhabitants of the shelter looking at him expectantly.


    ''Shit, I forgot I was about to instruct them.''


    Clearing his throat, he once again addressed the room, "Separate into your sses, we will be using your new skills to gain some familiarity." he said.


    The group nodded and began to split up as directed. As Colin had said, there seemed to be more than half that were swordsmen, with the next highest being mages.


    Jayce wasn''t sure if he was just imagining it, but it seemed that there was an invisible connection between him and these people. As if a thread of fate was tying them together.


    He raised his eyebrows in surprise, this was a simr feeling to his previous life when he had been a member of a party. Perhaps this was the faction function that the system had alluded to earlier.


    He instructed Jackie and Colin to take care of the Mages and Guardians, sending Lianna with Jackie as she was technically simr to a mage ss.


    Before he walked over to the swordsmen, he quickly addressed the Archers, giving them instructions of how to activate and train their starting abilities. Thankfully he was well versed in the main sses, due to his years of hunting as a party.

 Chapter 16: Swordsman Training

    <h4>Chapter 16: Swordsman Training</h4>


    Jayce stood before the gathering of swordsmen, his postureposed and his expression calm yet resolute. He saw a mix of gazes staring at him, some bore the same fanatical reverence that was leftover from his earlier impassioned speech.


    "Swordsmen" he began, his voice carrying a firm but measured cadence. "For whatever reason, you have chosen this ss. Whether you thought it sounded cool, or you resonate with the idea of being a warrior, it matters not."


    "The fact of the matter is, you now have no other choice but to be a fully fledged warrior. If you want to survive, that is." As he said these words, his heart began to throb.


    Jayce paced back and forth in front of the swordsmen,pounding his thoughts and finding the right words.


    "Truth be told, out of all the sses, swordsmen are the most difficult in the early stages. Going up against monsters that are stronger and faster than you, all while trying to keep yourself and your party alive."


    A few eyes flickered after his words, showing a sign of uncertainty. He didn''t me them, for he was in a simr position to them in hisst life. However, the difference was, he did not have someone as a mentor to learn from.


    "However, do not despair. With diligence and correct attribute scaling, upon reaching theter levels, your job will be much easier."


    While the words sounded pretty, some of the group still bore uneasy looks. Jayce would have been surprised if one sentence were to assuage their worries.


    He reached for his sword on his back, in order to teach them some moves. However, of course there was no longer a weapon situated there. Clearing his throat in embarrassment, he held out his hand and gestured for a sword from one of them.


    "Ahem. Your starting abilities are the building blocks of your prowess. Allow me to guide you through Sword sh and Parry, your two starting skills as a Swordsmen."


    Feeling the sword in his hands brought a wave of nostalgia. He measured the weight, and shed the air a couple of times to get used to it. Unfortunately, his starting stats were lower than he was used to, putting an unexpected burden on holding the sword.


    However, he had been a swordsman for 10 years, so he was able to adapt in no time.


    "Watch carefully. While I am not a swordsman and therefore do not have the same starting skills, I am proficient enough to guide you."


    Jayce demonstrated the Sword sh with controlled precision, his movements efficient and deliberate. At least, it looked so from an outsider''s perspective. ''Damn it.'' Jayce cursed internally, feeling his muscles cry out in protest from the foreign action.


    Straightening his body, and hiding any pain from his face, he continued, "Sword sh is a versatile offensive skill, delivering swift and precise strikes. It allows you to exploit openings in your opponent''s defense, targeting vital points with calcted efficiency. Remember, it is not the sheer force of the strike, but the uracy and timing that make it lethal."


    He then shifted into a defensive stance, demonstrating the Parry technique. "Parry, on the other hand, is the key defensive maneuver. It grants us the ability to deflect iing attacks and counter with a swift riposte. By observing our opponents'' movements and predicting their intentions, we can nullify their assaults while simultaneously seizing the opportunity tounch a counterattack."


    Jayce''s voice remainedposed, his words practical and focused. "As swordsmen, we rely on the following, in order of priority; Strength, Dexterity, and Vitality. Strength grants us power in our strikes, Dexterity enhances our agility and precision, while Vitality ensures our endurance to withstand the rigors of battle."


    He nced around, making eye contact with each swordsman, conveying a sense of shared purpose. "Your role as swordsmen is to stand at the forefront of the fight, shielding our allies and engaging enemies head-on. Alongside the Guardians, you provide a stalwart defense, ensuring the safety of ourrades as we carve a path through adversity."


    A sense of determination and confidence emanated from Jayce''s words. "Remember, the true measure of a swordsman lies not in grandiose ideals or shy techniques, but in discipline, adaptability, and the mastery of our fundamental skills."


    Jayce''s gaze turned solemn, his piercing eyes carrying a weight of experience and wisdom. The swordsmen in the room leaned in, their attention captured by his words. He addressed them with a voice thatmanded respect and conveyed the gravity of their situation.


    "Never underestimate an enemy, my fellow swordsmen," Jayce''s voice carried a somber tone, each word measured and deliberate. "No matter how small or how unformidable they may seem,cency can be our greatest downfall. One false move, one momentarypse in judgment, and everything we hold dear could be lost."


    A middle-aged man with a small goatee stood up, his eyes reflecting curiosity and a hint of skepticism. "Mr. Jayce, how is it that you possess such profound knowledge and understanding of Cataclysm?" he inquired, his voiceced with curiosity.


    Jayce''s expression remained enigmatic, a hint of mystery lingering in his eyes. He shook his head, a wry smile ying at the corner of his lips. "Let''s just say I''ve had my fair share of encounters with Cataclysm," he replied, purposefully avoiding a direct answer. The air of intrigue deepened, leaving the room buzzing with anticipation.


    Sensing the disappointment on some faces, Jayce swiftly redirected their focus. With a p of his hands, he reignited their energy and determination. "But enough about me. It''s time for action. Let us begin our training, my fellow swordsmen!" His voice regained its vigor, a surge of enthusiasm coursing through his words.


    Handing the sword back to its original owner, Jayce deftly paired the swordsmen, ensuring each had a sparring partner. Soon, the room echoed with the resounding sh of metal, the rhythmic dance ofbat filling the air.

 Chapter 17: Dish #2

    <h4>Chapter 17: Dish #2</h4>


    Jayce left the swordsman to continue their training after an hour or so, choosing to walk around the room and check up on the other sses.


    Colin was practicing with the two other Guardians, using theirrge kite shields to bash against one another. Jayce nodded with satisfaction, pleased to see how quickly they had picked up the skill. The Guardians'' dedication and progress reassured him, knowing they would serve as formidable protectors for the group.


    The mages, meanwhile, were engrossed in mana maniption training. Jayce knew that mastering this skill was crucial for all mages, as it would enhance their control over their other magical abilities. Due to the limited space in the shelter, he had instructed Jackie to focus solely on this foundational skill for now.


    As he surveyed the bustling training area, Jayce felt a sense of pride in his heart. Each member of the shelter was taking their survival seriously, determined to adapt to their new circumstances. He could sense the unity and camaraderie growing among them, and it filled him with hope.


    With the others immersed in their training, Jayce found some free time for himself. "I should probably do some training of my own," he thought with a wry smile. As a Chef, he had the advantage of honing his skills while preparing meals for everyone, a dual-purpose that would benefit them all.


    With a skip in his step, he made his way to the kitchen, ready to improve his culinary abilities. Standing in front of the bench, he reviewed the avable ingredients, pondering what to cook next. His VIP15 skill allowed him to gain free stats by consuming the meals he prepared, an advantageous trait that he was keen to exploit.


    "Should I make Chicken Vegetable Soup again?" he murmured, contemting the decision. However, he quickly dismissed the idea, realizing that the shelter''s inhabitants might eventually tire of the same meal. Jayce was determined to provide a variety of dishes, keeping morale high and stomachs satisfied.


    Checking the industrial fridge, he suddenly remembered that there was no electricity anymore. Jayce shook his head at his momentarypse, cursing himself for the oversight. Swiftly, he stored the perishable items in his inventory, grateful for the dimensional space it provided.


    The inventory was a precious resource, but it had its limits. Jayce knew he would need to manage it wisely, especially since there were items that would not fit and yers had a carrying capacity. He also remembered the existence of dimensional rings, coveted storage devices that he had never possessed in his previous life.


    As the foodstuff settled safely in his inventory, a pop-up notification appeared in the corner of his vision. Curious, he opened it.


    [Possible Dishes]


    Sashimi - Raw salmon and tuna +2 Vitality


    Spicy Ramen - Ramen noodles, sliced meat, spicy broth +1 Strength, +1 Dexterity


    Grilled Chicken Teriyaki - Tender chicken, teriyaki ze, steamed rice +1 Strength, +1 Vitality


    Herb-Infused Sd - Fresh greens, assorted herbs, light vinaigrette +1 Vitality, +1 Intelligence


    Miso Soup - Miso paste, tofu, seaweed, green onions +1 Vitality, +1 Intelligence


    Sweet and Sour Pork - Crispy pork, sweet and sour sauce, steamed vegetables +1 Strength, +1 Dexterity


    Beef Stir-Fry - Sliced beef, colorful bell peppers, savory sauce +1 Strength, +1 Dexterity


    Fruit Medley - Assorted fresh fruits, drizzled with honey +1 Vitality, +1 Intelligence


    Seafood Pae - Saffron-infused rice, shrimp, mussels, and squid +1 Strength, +1 Vitality


    Vegetable Tempura - Assorted vegetables, lightly battered and fried +1 Dexterity, +1 Intelligence


    Jayce grinned from ear to ear, his young face brimming with satisfaction, "That''s more like it."


    "I''ve already received 2 Vitality from lunch. I should probably round out my stats considering I have no idea what attributes the Chef ss uses."


    Jayce had a habit of speaking to himself, picked up from his few years as a vagabond before joining Avnche in his previous life. His cohort would often tease him about it, but it was all in good fun.


    After all, everyone had been through their own trials before getting to where they were. For Jayce, it was a way to keep his mind upied and drive away the loneliness.


    "Beef Stir-Fry it is!" he said in a chirpy voice.


    After he selected the option, the ingredients he needed appeared from his inventory, falling straight on the ground and bounced around a few times.


    Jayce stared at the mess he had made silently, "5-second rule!" he shouted, before picking them all up and plopping them on the bench. For some reason, he felt that his Michelen caliber restaurant was still so far away.


    He rolled up his sleeves, feeling a flood of joy pumping through his veins.


    "Let me cook."


    In a swift motion, he retrieved a wok and ced it on the stove, appreciating the simplicity of cooking with gas in this post-apocalyptic world. He reached for some oil, pouring just the right amount into the wok before letting it heat up.


    Next, he took out the beef, thinly sliced and tender, a perfect choice for a stir-fry. He seasoned it with a pinch of salt and pepper, enhancing its natural vors. As the beef sizzled in the hot wok, a mouth-watering aroma filled the kitchen.


    Jayce''s hands moved with practiced precision as he added sliced bell peppers, carrots, and green beans to the wok. The vegetables danced and cooked alongside the beef, creating a vibrant medley of colors and textures.


    Pouring the sauce into the wok, Jayce watched as it bubbled and thickened, coating the beef and vegetables in a tantalizing ze. The scent of the stir-fry grew even more alluring, beckoning everyone closer to the kitchen.


    With a final flourish, he sprinkled some chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top, adding the finishing touch to the masterpiece. Jayce scooped the beef stir-fry into arge serving dish, ready to share this delectable meal with his fellow survivors.


    As hepleted the dish, another pop-up window appeared, almost causing him to drop the freshly cooked meal.


    [Congrattions, you have sessfully prepared "Beef Stir-Fry"]


    Basic Cooking has increased to lvl. 2


    Ingredient Analysis has increased to lvl. 2


    Taste Enhancement has increased to lvl. 2

 Chapter 18: Scars aren’t always visible

    <h4>Chapter 18: Scars aren''t always visible</h4>


    Jayce''s eyes shot open, and his hand instinctively reached for his sword, a reflex honed through countless battles. Yet, as his fingers groped the empty space beside him, panic gripped his heart.


    His mind raced to catch up with reality, and he finally grasped his situation. He was no longer out in the wilderness, surrounded by enemies and monsters alike. Instead, he was in the nightclub that Colin had converted into a shelter . Old habits die hard, and even though he had traveled back into the past, his instincts of a seasoned warrior persisted.


    With a sigh of relief, Jayce calmed his racing heart. It had been three months since he was transported back in time to before the Cmity had started. Those months had been filled with moments like these¡ªwaking up with the persistent notion that danger lurked nearby, ready to pounce at any moment.


    In the beginning, the disorientation was disconcerting. He had grown ustomed to sleeping with his sword within arm''s reach, relying on it for protection and survival. The absence of that familiar weight had left him feeling vulnerable and exposed.


    In these three months, he had faced battles of a different kind¡ªbattles with his own demons and memories. The horrors of survival and the faces of fallenrades haunted his dreams, making sleep an elusivepanion. But even amidst the turmoil, Jayce found a sense of sce.


    Despite when he had first experienced the descending of Cmity, he now had much more knowledge at his disposal. His already honedbat experience, as well as a grasp on future events would make his life much easier.


    As Jayce steadied his breathing, the memories of his previous life as a swordsman lingered, reminding him of the path he had chosen, or what was chosen for him. Though he had been assigned the Chef ss, he couldn''t deny the call of his true nature. The sword had been his ally andpanion for too long to be easily discarded.


    As Jayce stepped into the main area of the shelter, he cast a weary gaze over the sleeping inhabitants. The dim light from a few flickering candles illuminated their peaceful faces, blind and na?ve to the horrors thaty outside.


    While he may have done his best to convey the current situation of the outside world to these people, hearing about it was one thing. It wouldn''t be until they witnessed it for themselves that they would truly understand what Cataclysm had done to their world.


    A sigh escaped Jayce''s lips as he couldn''t help but wonder how many of these people would survive the trials thaty ahead. The world outside was ruthless and unforgiving, and even in the shelter, safety was an illusion. He knew that danger coulde knocking at their door at any moment, and he feared that not all would emerge unscathed.


    Yet, amidst the uncertainty, Jayce shook his head and steeled his resolve. He couldn''t afford to be pessimistic. He had found a purpose in protecting these people, a purpose that gave him the strength to keep going despite the nightmares that gued his sleep.


    The weight of responsibility settled on his shoulders, but it was a burden he willingly embraced. He had seen enough suffering and death in his previous life to know the value of life. Each life in the shelter was precious, and he would do whatever it took to ensure their survival.


    Jayce knew he couldn''t protect them from every danger, but he vowed to try his best. He would train them in the art of self-defense and survival, equipping them with the skills needed to navigate the harsh world outside.


    Moreover, he understood that safety within the shelter was not enough. The people needed more than just protection; they needed hope and a sense of purpose. Jayce had seen firsthand how despair could consume a person''s soul, leaving them with nothing but a hollow existence.


    So, he resolved to be more than just a guardian. He would be a beacon of hope, a source of inspiration for those who had lost their way. He would show them that even in the darkest of times, there was still a glimmer of light to hold onto.


    If these people knew the thoughts and experiences that the young 18 year old man had, they would be shocked. Although they had subconsciously taken him as their leader, they still viewed him as a young, yet forthright man.


    Jayce was about to head over to see Colin when something stopped him in his tracks.


    [Good morning my dear supporters! I trust you enjoyed your first night in the new world]


    Rubick''s sonorous voice rang in Jayce''s head, forcing a grim expression onto his face. He had forgotten that he would be receiving a quest from the enigmatic¡­ thing this morning.


    [Please hold tight, I''d like to do this announcement in person.]


    "In person¡­ What?" Before Jayce had a chance to question things, he felt an invisible pull, drawing his consciousness out of his body.

 Chapter 19: Rubick’s Hammer

    <h4>Chapter 19: Rubick''s Hammer</h4>


    Jayce''s consciousness felt as if it were being pulled away from his body, a disorienting sensation that left him momentarily bewildered. When he finally regained his senses, he found himself in a strange and unfamiliar environment. The first thing his eyes fell upon was arge pane of ss in front of him, separating him from the unknown world beyond.


    His surroundings were like a booth, and he quickly took in the scene around him. The booth was small and confined, with a red buttonbeled "talk" situated in front of him. Beside the button were the words "#1 - Let Me Cook." Jayce couldn''t shake off the feeling of confusion that enveloped him as he tried to make sense of his situation.


    He looked around, hoping to find some clues or an exit, but his efforts were in vain. The space felt alien and surreal, unlike anything he had experienced before. Before he could gather his thoughts, therge pane of ss in front of him suddenly lit up, revealing a scene that took him by surprise.


    Beyond the ss was a vast room, like an auditorium with a stage at its center. The room was grand and majestic, with high ceilings adorned with intricate chandeliers casting a warm and inviting glow. However, the stage thaty before him was currently empty, devoid of any individuals.


    The walls were lined with shelves, filled with countless books and scrolls. Surrounding the stage was a multitude of booths, each likely simr to the one that he was stuck in, and in front of each booth, Jayce noticed a name and a number, but the upants themselves were obscured from view, hidden behind the opaque ss.


    As he observed the names on the booths adjacent to his, he recognized a few familiar ones ¨C "#2 - Steel Heart," "#3 - Shadow Strike," and "#4 - me Caster." These were undoubtedly the supporters from the list that Rubick had provided the day prior.


    Suddenly, as if conjured from the very shadows of the room, a figure emerged on the grand stage. Rubick, the enigmatic being, made his grand entrance, and the room seemed toe alive.


    The slender figure of Rubick was draped in an attire that seemed to be made entirely of shadows, giving him an air of mystery and intrigue. His long, flowing coat clung to his frame, billowing like dark smoke with every step he took. The material itself appeared to be alive, moving and shifting as if it had a mind of its own.


    His mask, a haunting sight, covered the majority of his face. With a wide, sharp-toothed grin, the mask sent shivers down the spines of those who dared to look upon it. It seemed to be a mixture of beauty and terror, an embodiment of both elegance and danger. Beneath the mask, blood-red eyes gleamed, peering out with a mesmerizing intensity.


    Rubick''s presence exuded an aura of power and charisma,manding the attention of all in the room. The atmosphere shifted as he took the stage, and the room was hushed in awe.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed supporters of Cataclysm: Worlds End!" His voice resonated with a melodious timbre, echoing through the vast space. "I wee you all to this momentous asion. Your unwavering dedication and support have allowed us to transcend the boundaries of worlds and bring this grand gathering into existence!"


    His words flowed with a theatrical ir, each syble carefully chosen for maximum impact. He moved gracefully on the stage, a dance of shadows and light as he addressed the gathering.


    Jayce shuddered, seeing the creepy figure of Rubick in person had much more of an impact than just through his system. The slender physique and the mboyant gestures paired with the creepy mask and shadowy coat painted a horrifying picture.


    "I, Rubick, am humbled by the convergence of such extraordinary beings from Earth. Your presence here marks the beginning of a new era, the next expansion of our beloved Cataclysm!" The grandiosity of his words matched his mboyant gestures.


    "I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you, for it is your passion and enthusiasm that fuel the heart of Cataclysm. Your unwavering support has allowed this convergence to take shape, and I stand before you as the curator of this grand spectacle."


    "I''m sure all of you have some questions." He said, looking around the room at all of the booths. "However, now is not the time"


    Before he could continue, a voice reverberated through the room. This voice had a filter on it, making the voice indistinguishable, were it not for the name that appeared on their windows. "#83 Oil Prince"


    "Hey, whatever your name is. I have a question, why the hell am I only ranked 83rd? I spent over $100,000 US dors on your shitty game." Despite the voice being masked, everyone could hear the usatory tone attached.


    Jayce''s ears perked up, although he had spent a lot of money on the game, it was nowhere near $100,000. That must mean that the supporters were ranked by some other unit of measurement.


    Rubick looked over to the booth, his red eye''s gleaming behind the creepy mask. "Ah, one moment please."


    Rubick suddenly removed his top hat in a sweeping gesture, revealing a bald head underneath. He extended his slender fingers into the depths of the hat, like a masterful magician pulling off a grand illusion. But instead of a rabbit, his hand emerged holding a massive hammer with the ominous word "Ban" written on it.


    The room fell silent as all eyes turned to booth #83. There, the yer who had ignored Rubick and spoken out of turn froze. His face turned pale as he realized the gravity of the situation.


    "Ah, P-Please don''t."


    Without uttering a single word, Rubick swung the mighty hammer down with uncanny speed and precision. The force of the strike was deafening, creating a resounding boom that reverberated through the room like a thunderp.


    In an instant, the booth crumbled and disintegrated into a cloud of particles, his existence erased in an instant.


    Rubick''s expression remained inscrutable, as if he were merely fulfilling a duty, a force of nature carrying out its will. His eyes glowed ominously, causing the others in attendance to feel shock and trepidation.


    "Ahem. Apologies for that, my esteemed guests. Some people just can''t follow rules you know."

 Chapter 20: World Quest

    <h4>Chapter 20: World Quest</h4>


    The aftermath of Rubick''s swift judgment was nothing short of chilling. As the dust settled from the destruction of booth #83, the yers stood in stunned silence. The eerie atmosphere seemed to thicken as Rubick nonchntly continued speaking, as though taking a human life was merely routine.


    "There''s no time to dwell on such matters," Rubick spoke, his voice carrying an unsettling tone that sent shivers down the spines of the listeners. "Instead, let us focus on the celebration andpetition ahead!"


    Jayce couldn''t shake off the feeling of unease that enveloped him. Rubick''s demeanor, the way he seemed detached from the gravity of his actions, made him appear like an otherworldly being. A puppet master pulling the strings of fate with an almost sadistic delight.


    "Now, my dear supporters, it is time for the inaugural quest!" Rubick announced, and the room was filled with a mix of anticipation and trepidation.


    "Our top 100 supporters shallpete for a grand prize!"


    These words gave rise to many questions, however after remembering Oil Prince''s harrowing fate for speaking out of turn, no one had the courage to ask. Jayce shuffled ufortably in his chair, having a bad feeling about the situation.


    Rubick looked around the room a couple of times, and ced his hands on his hips. He let out a harrumph, puffing his cheeks slightly in irritation "Hmph. Well I thought you''d all be a bit more excited."


    Of course, his attempt to act cute was lost on the room''s upants. Not only did they just see Rubick brutally murder one of them, his face was also hidden behind a creepy mask that caused those who looked at it to feel fear.


    "Ahem. Anyway, let''s get onto thepetition!" He pped his hands together, producing a loud noise and sending smoke billowing out simr to a smoke grenade.


    Jayce saw his screen begin to turn opaque due to the smoke. He panicked for a moment, worried that he may suffocate if the smoke made its way into his booth. However, he did not have to worry for too long.


    The screen in front of him glitched for a moment before a two dimensional figure appeared on the center of his screen. He blinked a few times, dumbfounded by the sight in front of him.


    "Hiya everyone! Can you see meee?"


    ''What the hell is this?'' Jayce recoiled.


    A chibi version of Rubick was dancing around his screen. It reminded him of the cute drawings in the author''s words section of some of his favorite manga. However this was much creepier.


    Rubick seemed to be enjoying his new look as he jumped around, making noises in a high pitched tone. A window appeared on the screen with the title "First Cataclysm Competition [World Quest]" with a list of conditions underneath.


    Wee to the First Cataclysm Competition, intended for sponsors only.


    In recognition of your unwavering faith and contribution, we invite you to partake in the First Cataclysm Competition. This momentous event serves as an opportunity for humanity to stand united and forge a path towards survival.


    We hope you take this chance seriously, as failure toplete the task will immediately result in ultimate extinction for the human race.


    Objectives:


    Create a Faction (minimum 20 yers)


    Faction members reach an average level of 10


    Kill 50 Goblins


    Kill 50 Bloodfang Wolves


    Reward:


    1st ce: Unique Skill


    2nd ce: Epic Skill


    3rd ce: Rare Skill


    Jayce''s face paled immediately, seeing the words written in front of him. Extinction of the human race was particrly concerning to him. Was this also what happened in his previous life?


    He frowned deeply, he had never heard of anything like this in the past. However he had never been a supporter, just an ordinary swordsman who had managed to survive for 10 years.


    Thinking back to the list of supporters he had been shown, he recognized quite a few that were leaders of guilds and factions in his past life. Things started to fall into ce, piece by piece.


    If the guild and faction leaders were all supporters in his previous life, it would make sense why no one else would know of these quests, due to the threat of being "permanently banned." It also exined why there were never any outright wars between factions.


    Faced with the extinction of the human race, the guild and faction leaders were fighting their own battle to ensure that man would not cease to exist.


    Jayce had always wondered why the big guilds would dare to challenge high level bosses for gear and item drops. It never made sense to him. After all, if all you were trying to do was survive, it would be more prudent to just bunker down and be defensive.


    However, now that he knew about the yearly [World Quest] that was provided by Rubick, and the result of failure, everything began to be clearer.

 Chapter 21: Q & A

    <h4>Chapter 21: Q & A</h4>


    After a few minutes, Rubick cleared his throat and gathered everyone''s attention while still in his chibi 2d form on the screen. "If you have any questions, now is the time my dear supporters. Just press the red button in front of you."


    Jayce pondered for a moment, he did not have any burning questions due to the knowledge of his previous life. Now that he had been exposed to Rubick and the supporters, everything was beginning to be clear.


    The next moment, a few names popped up in the bottom corner, shing. Rubick waddled over to the corner of the screen and tapped on the first one, "#4 - me Caster".


    As soon as he did, a noticeably deep and robotic voice entered their ears, "May I ask how we create a faction? Does it work simr to how it did in Cataclysm: World''s End?"


    A sound of surprise escaped Jayce''s mouth. He had been so focused on therger picture that he did not even consider this question. Feeling a shiver run down his back, he shook his head and pped his cheeks with both of his hands.


    It looked like he would need to change his mindset. After all, what good would knowing the future be if he could not analyze and take advantage of the things that were in front of him at this moment. If me Caster had not asked this question, he likely could have missed out on the opportunity to attain the rewards of the World Quest.


    He surmised that in his previous life, the supporters hadpleted the World Quests at least 10 times, saving humanity each year. However, the past had already changed now that he arrived. Perhaps he could have knocked out the best supporter by entering their ranks this time.


    After all, there were only 100 supporters that had ess to the World Quest, no more, no less. His mind ran wild and fear gripped his heart, a sudden feeling of helplessness washed over him in this moment.


    His episode was interrupted by Rubick''s cheery voice, "Yes! You will have ess to the Faction function in your system when you return. All you need to do is have 10 founding members to start one."


    Moving on, Rubick pressed the next name, #14 - Blood Reaper. The same voice as the previous person entered everyone''s ears, "Are there any penalties for killing another yer?"


    Jayce''s eyes widened, sucking in a deep breath. What the hell was wrong with this guy? He quickly made a mental note to not involve himself with the obviously psychotic Blood Reaper.


    Rubickid his head back and cackled, theugh sounded eerie and grating to his ears. After a few moments, he managed topose himself enough to answer. "Hehe, you ask a great question number 14¡­ Unfortunately, if you kill another human, you will receive a penalty."


    ''A penalty?'' Tilting his head, Jayce was suddenly stunned. There were no such restrictions in his previous life, filling him with unease. ''Has the past changed so much already?''


    Jayce himself had killed a few humans during his 10 years of survival. The world had turned into a harsh ce, and not every human was of sound mind. Some took advantage of thewlessness, treating others as ves andmitting unspeakable acts.


    However, things were cleared up a momentter.


    Rubick paused for a moment, adjusting his tophat, "However, this only applies to all of you, my dear supporters. We can''t have the "Heroes of Humanity" killing their own kind now can we?"


    "And before you ask about the penalty¡­" He lifted his finger to his mouth in a shushing motion, "...It''s a secret. Hehehe"


    "Penalty¡­" Jayce muttered, a frown forming on his face. The revtion would make things trickier in the future, particrly if he was left with no other choice. He did not enjoy killing people, however he was a pragmatic person. If the alternative was dying, he would not hesitate to take a life.


    He pondered a moment before pressing the red button in front of him and speaking. "What is the time limit forpleting the World Quest, and will the rewards be ss-specific skills?"


    Sitting back, he waited for Rubick to get to his question. After a few more questions that he already knew the answers to appeared, Rubick finally got to his name. Before pressing the notification on the screen, the small chibi looked directly at him and winked, startling Jayce.


    "There he is, my number 1 supporter! Thank you for your patronage. I hope you are loving your special ss that we assigned you, I picked it out myself after rummaging through your memories."


    "M-My memories?" Jayce muttered, dumbstruck. ''What the hell is this guy going on about?? Why couldn''t he have made me into a supreme swordsman!'' he screamed in his heart, bitterness overflowing.

 Chapter 22: Questions lead to more Questions

    <h4>Chapter 22: Questions lead to more Questions</h4>


    "Rummaged through my memories?" Jayce''s mind raced, feeling a wave of unease wash over him. How did they ess his memories? How much did Rubick know?


    These answers to those questions held the possibility of dire consequences. For instance, if Rubick was somehow aware of his previous life and therefore regarded him as a threat to Cataclysm, it could very well be the end of him.


    ''Is that why he gave me the chef ss? Knowing that I was such a proficient swordsman in my previous life?'' Jayce thought, his sword-shaped eyebrows knitted together in stress.


    However, in the next moment he shook his head, dismissing this theory. While it was true that he had been a swordsman in his previous life for over 10 years, he was far from elite. He was actually mediocre at best, behind a slew of others.


    The only thing that he was particrly good at was survival, having been solo for long periods at a time before settling down in Avnche with his old cohort. Therefore there was not enough evidence to suggest that Rubick had ess to the memories of his previous life.


    Putting that aside, the next ring question was how they had essed his memories. However, this was probably the easiest to answer.


    The VR capsule was the most likely culprit. Due to the need to ess his neural pathways in order to transport his consciousness into the game world, it was likely that it also had the ability to explore the recesses of one''s memory.


    Which also brought up an even more frightening question. Just who was Rubick, and what ties did he have to the manufacturer of the VR capsule?


    "Wait a minute. Rubick... Rubix Corporation¡­" Jayce fell back in his chair, his mind spinning like crazy. He felt as if he had been pounded over the head with a frying pan.


    He looked at the chibi figure on his screen with clouded eyes, not knowing what to say or even think. He had learned more about the Apocalypse in 1 day than he had in his 10 years during his previous life.


    It was safe to say that he had a lot to think about. Now was not the time to ask any stupid questions and risk Rubick catching on that he knew more than he should, jeopardizing his life.


    "Mr. Let Me Cook?" The chibi figure of Rubick tilted his head in question.


    Jayce was startled for a moment, having his pseudonym called out all of a sudden. He leant forward and pressed the red button "Um, Yes?" he responded.


    A few question marks appeared above Rubick''s head on the screen, as if he were puzzled by the response. He answered in a funny tone, "It looks like our #1 supporter is a little tired."


    He shrugged his shoulders and let out an exaggerated sigh, "Let''s call an end to this gathering my dear supporters. You can ess the World Quest through your system, as well as the questions and answers that were discussed in our meeting."


    Rubick grabbed a squeegee from out of nowhere and began to clear the screen in front of him, painting a slightlyical picture, were it not for the atmosphere. As thest bit was cleaned away, Jayce felt his vision go dark, before losing consciousness.


    ***


    Jayce''s eyes fluttered open, his consciousness slowly returning to him. He found himself surrounded by Jackie and Lianna, their faces etched with concern. He rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the disorientation. "What happened?" he mumbled.


    Jackie''s voice quivered slightly as she replied, "You fainted, Jayce. We tried waking you up, but you wouldn''t respond, even after Lianna used her healing skills."


    Jayce sat up slowly, the memories of the supporters gathering flooding back. He could still feel the eerie atmosphere lingering in his mind. It was a relief to be back in the familiar presence of the shelter, but he couldn''t help feeling a sense of urgency and responsibility.


    "You''ve been working non-stop, Jayce," Lianna added softly. "You must have overexerted yourself." She gave him a worried look, making his heart flutter.


    Behind the longshes, her pretty emerald eyes held a look of care, something he was seldom exposed to. Now that he took a good look at her, he realized just how dazzling she really was. He had heard of beauties that could topple kingdoms in light novels and manga before, yet only now could he picture it.


    Her beautiful long ebony hair cascaded down her back in waves, shimmering in the candlelight as if infused with stardust. Each strand seemed to possess a life of its own, dancing gracefully around her like a halo of midnight silk. The way it framed her delicate features only added to her allure.


    Her high cheeks were cute and rosy, as if they had been gently brushed by the painter''s finest strokes. They carried a natural blush that entuated her charm, making her seem like a celestial being that had descended from the heavens.


    Her slender nose gracefully tapered towards her slightly parted lips, which carried a soft and enchanting smile. The curve of her lips held an innate warmth that could light up the darkest corners of one''s heart. It was a smile that held a thousand stories, each waiting to be unraveled.


    Jayce''s face flushed beet red, his fragile 18 year old body began to heat up from embarrassment. ''Damn it, now is not the time to get a crush you idiot!'' he admonished himself in exasperation.


    Jackie handed him a bowl of porridge with a small smile. "Here, have some of this. It''s not as good as your cooking, but I did my best."


    Jayce epted the bowl in earnest, thankful for the interruption. He quickly wolfed down the food in order to take his pubescent mind off of the striking beauty in front of him.


    After a few moments, he managed to calm down and smiled meekly "Thank you, Jackie. It''s delicious, really."


    Lianna''s eyes softened with relief, and she patted his hand gently. "Just make sure to take care of yourself, Jayce. We need you in top condition if we''re going to survive in this world."


    Once again Jayce''s face flushed red, threatening to overheat.

 Chapter 23: Faction

    <h4>Chapter 23: Faction</h4>


    Colin entered the room, and his face lit up at the sight of Jayce awake. Yet, as his eyes fell upon Lianna''sforting gesture towards Jayce, a sense of awkwardness enveloped him. He almost turned on his heels, contemting a swift retreat from the room.


    In response to Colin''s entrance, Jayce looked over with a pleading expression, silently imploring for aid. However, his plea only provoked a hearty chuckle from the big man, who promptly departed, a dazzling smile adorning his face.


    Left feeling abandoned, Jayce simmered with indignation. ''I won''t forget this, you big oaf,'' he vowed inwardly.


    Clearing his throat, he discreetly withdrew his hand from Lianna''s grasp, reiming some of hisposure after being ensnared by his own emotions.


    "Thank you, Lianna. I''ll be more cautious in the future," he uttered, taking a moment to straighten his attire. "We still have much to attend to. How long was I unconscious?"


    Jackie frowned, "Didn''t we just tell you to rest?"


    Jayce shook his head, a touch exasperated. The absence of parental figures for so long had rendered him unustomed to such questioning or being spoken to as a child.


    "Sadly, there''s no time for rest. There''s still so much to be done, and our supplies won''tst indefinitely," he stated matter-of-factly.


    Jackie faltered, rendered speechless. Why did it seem like this teenager was the mature adult in this situation? She pondered, realizing Jayce''s seemingly unppable demeanor and his ability to effortlessly inspire and guide the shelter''s inhabitants in honing their skills.


    Contemting Jayce''s knowledge of the outside world, she furrowed her brow, uncertain of how toprehend him. Nheless, one thing was evident¡ªhe emanated trustworthiness and kindness, as attested by both her own observations and Lianna''s ount of her rescue.


    Unaware of the thoughts swirling in Jackie''s mind, Jayce stepped into the main room of the makeshift shelter, where most of the inhabitants had gathered. Originally a nightclub, the hard and sticky floor bore remnants of spilled beverages.


    Beneath the ground, concealed from the monstrous threats that lurked outside, the nightclub''s interior remained perpetually veiled in darkness. Though candles and torches could manage the shadows, these resources were scarce in a world bereft of electricity since the cataclysm had befallen the Earth.


    Humans were not creatures of the night, and prolonged exposure to darkness wrought a certain impact upon one''s psyche. Jayce couldn''t help but shiver at the thought, for it conjured haunting memories from his past life.


    Refusing to dwell on those recollections, he strode to the room''s center, which once served as the dancefloor, gathering the attention of all present. Although not particrly extroverted, he knew time was of the essence, and preparations must begin promptly.


    Perhaps other supporters had already formed their Factions and embarked on hunting monsters, and he must be swift if he hoped to contend for the World Quest prizes.


    In this apocalyptic realm, skills and abilities were tantamount to survival. One could never have enough, especially when lives hung in the bnce, and the fate of humankind was at stake.


    With such thoughts set aside, Jayce spoke calmly, "Fellowrades, I express my gratitude for heeding my words earlier. I understand they may have seemed bizarre and imusible, but they are truth."


    Scanning the room, he made eye contact with several individuals, gauging their expressions before continuing, "I have learned that we have ess to the Faction function within the system, granting us the opportunity to create our own Faction."


    A few puzzled looks surfaced, while others nodded inprehension. The elder members were unfamiliar with the term "Faction" and required rification.


    "To be precise, we can form a recognized group within the system, fostering mutual support, and growth as a team," Jayce exined, ensuring everyone shared amon understanding.


    "Will this mean we must engage inbat?" a man in histe forties questioned, steadying himself on a cane, bearing signs of a past injury that appeared to be quite incapacitating.


    Without hesitation, Jayce responded, "Indeed. We shall all have to fight."


    Disapproval emanated from several people, displeased by the deration. An older woman stood, her bob cut bouncing with indignation. "How could you expect this man to fight?"


    She gestured toward others in the room. "We have elderly and even children here. Have you no shame? Nopassion?"


    Remaining steadfast, Jayce observed the tide turning against him, yet his countenance betrayed no fear. He had anticipated some resistance regarding his next point.


    Waiting for the Karen to finish her outburst, he retorted evenly, "Compassion? Do you believe the monsters outside will care if you are old, young, or infirm?"


    Without waiting for an answer, he pressed on, "I assure you they will not. They shall not even blink before rending you limb from limb. This world we once knew no longer exists. Equality andpassion are absent. Only the survival of the fittest prevails."


    His words lingered in the still air, as a sense of dread and oppression seized the room, lowering its temperature by a few degrees.


    Jayce allowed them to stew in their disheartening realization for a few moments. They needed toprehend the severity of their circumstances, no matter how harrowing. The sooner they realized, the higher their chance of survival.


    Breaking the silence, he activated his Executive Chef skill, infusing all present with a surge of vitality. "Together, we shall grow stronger. We can survive and thrive amidst this apocalypse. Join me, and together, let us carve our ce in this forsaken world."


    A revitalizing warmth surged through the shelter''s inhabitants, lifting their spirits. Though the vitality boost was merely 2 points, it greatly bolstered them at their low levels.


    Renewed vigor and zeal glimmered in their eyes as they looked to Jayce. Wasting no time, he sent out a mass faction invitation to all those present.


    [You have been invited to Hell''s Kitchen by Let Me Cook - Will you ept?] [Y/N]

 Chapter 24: Shield

    <h4>Chapter 24: Shield</h4>


    [Congrattions on creating a Faction]


    [Your quest has been updated]


    Objectives:


    Create a Faction (minimum 20 yers) [?]


    Faction members reach an average level of 10


    Kill 50 Goblins


    Kill 50 Bloodfang Wolves


    Jayce couldn''t help but feel relieved as he exhaled deeply, the tension finally dissipating. The sess of his suggestion had hinged on the supporters'' cooperation, and he was grateful that they had embraced the idea.


    The man in histe forties approached Jayce with newfound vigor, his eyes shining with enthusiasm. "Excuse me, Mr. Jayce. I feel much lighter suddenly. Is this because I joined your faction?"


    Jayce pondered for a moment before nodding, "Yes, to some extent. I possess a skill that allows me to share my attribute bonuses with members of my faction."


    As he said this, Jayce realized he was able to use the Executive Chef skill on these individuals even before the formation of Hell''s Kitchen. Curiosity led him to check the skill description once more.


    Executive Chef (Passive): As a faction leader, you are in charge of your kitchen and your staff. Your staff will share your temporary and permanent buffs, so long as they are within 100 meters of you.


    His eyes widened as he focused on the key phrase "As a faction leader..." It dawned on him that he hadpleted a hidden quest after his rousing speech, making him the leader of a faction even before the system officially recognized it.


    "Woah, I got pretty lucky," he mused inwardly. Had he notpleted the hidden quest before the gathering of supporters and the activation of the faction function, he would have missed out on the incredible Executive Chef skill.


    Seeing Jayce''s absent look, the man in front was at a loss. "Uh, Mr. Jayce, does this mean my body will improve as I gain additional stats?"


    Jayce was woken from his train of thought and looked at the man with confusion and said nonchntly "I thought that was obvious?"


    The man frowned for a moment and retorted in exasperation, "What about any of this is obvious?"


    "Ah. Sorry, I misspoke." Seeing the obvious irritation from the crippled man, he remembered that Cmity had only just descended 24 hours beforehand. Judging by the man''s age, he also likely did not have experience with RPG games and systems.


    Addressing the room once more, Jayce spoke up in question, "Who here has experience with RPG games, or even the VR game Cmity?"


    Looking around the room, he saw a few hands raised, around 50% of the entire shelter in fact. Nodding, he continued, "Very good. Those of you who have no game experience, please talk to these people with their hands raised. You will need to get familiar with how they work, this is valuable information that may save your life one day."


    With that, Jayce departed from the room, his stomach growling in hunger. The flurry of conversations had tickled his appetite, and he was eager to prepare something delicious for himself. As he entered the kitchen, a massive figure blocked his path. Looking up, he saw Colin with a dazzling grin still stered on his face.


    "Um, can I get into the kitchen?" Jayce asked politely, his neck feeling strained from gazing up at Colin''s towering presence.


    Colin, not only tall but also broad with burly muscles hidden beneath his shirt, exuded a powerful aura. Jayce suspected that if starting stats weren''t capped across all sses, Colin would have started with over 15 vitality and strength. However, that wasn''t the case, for better or worse.


    "Jayce, you really are a good guy," Colin said, pulling Jayce into a bone-crushing embrace that almostpletely squashed him. The air was forcefully squeezed out of Jayce''s lungs, and he quickly tapped on Colin''s back, just like he had seen in mixed martial arts tournaments. s, there was no referee to intervene and save him, so he had to tap furiously until the giant finally let go.


    After what felt like an eternity, Colin released his grip and stepped back, allowing Jayce to breathe once more. Before Jayce could scold the big doofus for nearly crushing him, he noticed Colin reaching up to wipe away a few tears from his eyes.


    ''Huh? Why is he crying?'' Jayce''s words caught in his throat, leaving him utterly perplexed.


    "Thank you for looking after us. Not everyone would willingly take on the responsibility of caring for others, especially in a world like you described," the big man said with a warm smile.


    Suddenly the two figures of Colin ovepped in his mind. The one that sacrificed himself to buy enough time for the shelter''s inhabitants to flee the oing monsters in his previous life, and the emotional man in front of him.


    Remembering the broad shoulders that seemed like they could hold up the world, he felt a hint of mncholy rise up inside of him. This time would be different, he couldn''t bear losing such a man like Colin.


    Jayce shook his head andughed, squeezing past the big guy and patting him on the arm. "I''ll make us all some food, before we discuss what to do next."


    Colinughed and retorted, "Yes Chef!" before walking out of the room.


    As Jayce watched him walk away, a notification popped up in front of him.


    [Divine Shield has joined your Faction]

 Chapter 25: Player ID’s

    <h4>Chapter 25: yer ID''s</h4>


    "Divine Shield?" Jayce mumbled to himself, surprised at the notification.


    If a person had not yed Cataclysm: World''s End before, then they would not have a name or yer ID. Therefore there were a bunch of people that were assigned names from the system.


    He had seen many names in his previous life, and it was often easy enough to differentiate whether they were assigned a name or chose one themselves. This was because the system tended to give out simple names, whereas people would choose cool sounding or even silly names.


    Take Jayce for example, because he had yed the game, therefore he kept his yer ID: Let Me Cook. As Colin had said that he''d never yed Cataclysm before, that would mean he was assigned the name Divine Shield.


    He knew of some Guardians in his previous life which were named Bronze shield 1 and Broken Shield 4. Much like in-game, no one could share the same ID, which made a system generated name without a number at the end extremely rare. Even if it was the first iteration of the name, it always had a number.


    This was also the first time he had seen a name with the prefix Divine, raising further questions. Was the name Divine linked to Colin''s potential? If so, what were the odds of him living so close to Jayce. When he also thought about how he met the rare Cleric Lianna in the streets, he began to ponder deeply.


    "Were they like this in my previous life? Or is it because I went back in time?" Thinking about what he remembered of them in hisst life, he was leaning towards the former.


    While he wasn''t close with Colin in his first time around, he could still feel the same air of righteousness in this life. Lianna, on the other hand, was already dead by the time he reached her. However she was still wearing the green robe of a Cleric, backing up his theory.


    "Is it because of my Luck?" He pulled up his stats out of habit, focusing on the mysterious Luck stat.


    Name: Jayce (Let Me Cook)


    Title: N/A


    ss: Chef


    Subss: N/A


    Level: 2


    EXP: 0/200


    Health 120/120


    Mana: 60/60


    Strength: 3


    Dexterity: 3


    Intelligence: 2


    Vitality: 4 (+2)


    Luck: 27


    Stat Points: 0


    After zoning out a little in deep thought, he decided to open up the new Faction partition in the system.


    Faction: Hell''s Kitchen


    Leader: Let Me Cook


    Vice Leader: Vacant


    Faction Level: 1


    Members: 28/50


    yers:


    Divine Shield


    Frost Mage13


    Nurse Joy


    Crippled Swordsman5


    Rough Swordsman42


    Tough Shield8


    ¡­


    The first thing that struck him was that he had 28 members including himself, which meant that everyone in the shelter had epted his Faction invitation. He let out a sigh of relief, then looked at the list of yers.


    Divine Shield was Colin, and Frost Mage13 should be Jackie. Did that mean Nurse Joy was Lianna? If he remembered correctly, Nurse Joy was from Pokemon, an old game that originated on the handheld consoles a very long time ago.


    Thankfully, the handheld consoles had improved and breathed new life into the game, bing popr amongst children and adults alike once again. He himself had yed throughout middle school with his friends, until he lost his parents.


    Foraging the recesses of his memories, he suddenly recalled thedy that he would talk to at the Pokecenter who wore a short pink dress and a white apron. Well, the word "talk" wasn''t really urate, as he would just mash the A button until his pokemon were healed.


    His thoughts wondered again, suddenly imagining what Lianna would look like in a Nurse Joy outfit. He let out a curse, feeling his body flush in response.


    Now was not the time to have such fantasies, they could wait forter. No wait, what did he meanter? Feeling flustered, he tried to take his mind off of the image.


    "Food, I came in here to make some food." Jayce murmured, bringing up his menu.


    In the next moment, a grin spread across Jayce''s face. "It looks like my level increase in Basic Cooking has produced some nice results."


    ncing at the list before him, he noticed that the temporary stat boosts for all his dishes had increased from 2 to 3, effectively enhancing their power by 50%. His eyes gleamed with excitement as he decided to prepare some Miso Soup for his new faction members.


    The stat boost for Miso Soup had now be +2 Vitality and +1 Intelligence, meaning that if his VIP15 skill activated, everyone in the shelter would receive this additional benefit. After surviving for so many years, Jayce understood the importance of Vitality. It not only bolstered one''s body but also helped fight against illnesses and malnutrition. In his days as a medium-level swordsman, he could easily endure a week without food thanks to his decent Vitality stat.


    Without hesitation, Jayce immersed himself in the process of making the miso soup with meticulous precision. He measured the ingredients¡ªmiso paste, dashi broth, and tofu cubes¡ªcarefully, ensuring a perfect bnce of vors. As he stirred the pot, the ingredients blended harmoniously, releasing a tantalizing aroma that permeated the entire kitchen.


    [Congrattions, you have prepared "Miso Soup"]


    Stepping back, Jayce admired his culinary creation with a sense of fulfillment. The starting gear he wore seemed to make cooking a breeze, eradicating the days of almost burning down their camp.


    However, a tinge of bitterness crossed his face as he reminisced about his former questing group. "I wonder what they''re doing now?" he mumbled, a wave of mncholy washing over him.


    Shaking off the mncholy, he called for Colin. With the generous amount of Miso Soup he had prepared, it would be more efficient if everyone lined up to receive their share. Soon enough, the shelter''s inhabitants formed an orderly queue, their faces brimming with excitement.


    "It''s time for Leader''s cooking! I can''t wait."


    "I always feel invigorated when I eat his food."


    Jayce overheard the excited chatter and praise throughout the room, filling him with warmth. These people were now part of his faction, and it was his responsibility to ensure their survival.


    Once everyone received their share, Colin handed Jayce a bowl with a yful smile. "Eat up, Leader. Or should I call you Boss? Maybe Chef?"


    "Jayce is fine," he replied with a t tone, brushing off the yful banter. Taking a sip of the still-steaming soup, he sighed in satisfaction. No matter how many times he tasted his own cooking, it never failed to refresh him.


    The moment he finished thest spoonful, a notification appeared in his system. Holding his breath, he willed it to open, eager to see what awaited him.


    [You have consumed Miso Soup. Vitality increased by +2 - Intelligence increased by +1 for 1 hour]


    [Your skill VIP15 has made this boost permanent]


    "Lucky~" Jayce smiled in satisfaction.

 Chapter 26: Dessert

    <h4>Chapter 26: Dessert</h4>


    Feeling content after his meal, Jayce strolled back into the main area of the shelter. The atmosphere was uplifting; everyone had enjoyed their fill and was in high spirits, not only due to the temporary stat boosts but also because of the delectable food he had prepared.


    "I hope you''ve enjoyed your meal," Jayce announced, standing in the middle of the room and carefully navigating the sticky dance floor with his Comfy Chef''s Shoes. The shoes seemed to glide effortlessly over the surface, sparing him any embarrassing slips.


    Laughter and shouts of agreement echoed around the room. "Leader''s cooking is the best!"


    Trying to maintain aposed demeanor, Jayce attempted to hush the group. "Okay, okay. Well, now that dinner is over, it''s time for somebat training." Despite his efforts to remain serious, the praise from the group caused his cheeks to flush with a hint of pink, an involuntary reaction.


    The seasoned members exchanged knowing looks, chuckling among themselves. They could see beyond Jayce''s tough exterior and recognized his genuine care and concern for them.


    Colin, sensing the moment, stepped forward to keep everyone on track. "What do you need us to do?"


    Grateful for the support, Jayce took a moment to address the crowd. "We''ve been focusing on ss-specific training to help you get acquainted with your skills. Now, we''ll divide into parties of 6 and practice various battle tactics."


    Surprisingly, his words were met with eptance. Jayce was taken aback by the response, half expecting some objections. He even locked eyes with Karen, who had been critical earlier, but now she wore a warm smile.


    ''Hmm, is it because I''m the Faction leader? Or is it the Executive Chef skill?'' he pondered. If the skill''s description was to be taken literally, then the phrase "You are in charge of your kitchen and your staff" might imply arger influence over his faction members.


    With the lingering thoughts pushed aside, Jayce instructed everyone present to form groups of 5, consisting of 3 swordsmen and 2 mages. A few people were left over, including the 2 guardians, 3 archers, and 1 swordsman, not counting himself and Lianna, who were special sses.


    "These will be the core of our parties, so take the time to get to know each other if you haven''t already," Jayce advised. As soon as everyone had grouped up, he gathered the first team and proceeded to demonstrate various positioning and tactics.


    "Keep a vignt eye on your party members at all times. Swordsmen, your main task is to protect the backline, which will be the primary source of damage. Mages, pay attention to the movements of those at the front, as it could be disastrous if you identally hit them with your skills."


    He went overmon battle tactics with each team, making sure they understood the formations and their roles. Jayce was particrly impressed with a young boy who appeared to be in his early teens. Despite looking a bit awkward with a sword, the boy''s determination softened Jayce''s expression. He walked over and affectionately ruffled the boy''s hair.


    "Great job, Parker. Keep up the good work," Jayce encouraged him.


    Parker beamed with pride, "Thank you, Leader! I''ll do my best."


    Jayce smiled, then addressed the room, "We''ll be doing round robin sparring, with each team sparring each other twice. Treat this as a real battle, but do not use skills. Swordsmen, focus on attacking and defending, and mages, practice your mana maniption and find openings to attack."


    "If you identally hit your own team member, or if I determine that you''ve taken a lethal blow, you''ll be considered eliminated. The first team to eliminate the mages from the opposing side will be dered the winner."


    Colin raised his hand, hisrge frame almost touching the ceiling due to his extraordinary height. "Uh, Leader, what do we do?"


    "You''ll be joining the opposite teams with our other Guardian," Jayce replied, smiling and gesturing for the other guardian to join them.


    "Excellent! Let''s have some fun, everyone!" Colin cheered, patting a shorter man beside him who also carried arge kite shield, before making his way to Team A.


    Jayce pondered for a moment before adding, "Ah, before you begin, the winning team will be treated to a delicious dessert."


    Though the stakes were not high, Jayce decided to offer a small prize to encourage a bit of healthypetition among the teams. As the Shelter inhabitants were training based on his guidance, the idea of a reward might motivate them further.


    At Jayce''s words, the atmosphere in the room shifted. yfulness vanished, and the air grew tense, as if the previous camaraderie had never existed. Team A huddled together, whispering among themselves, the promise of a dessert seemingly igniting their determination.


    "Leader''s dessert¡­"


    A swordsman licked his lips in anticipation, "I-I can''t imagine how delicious it will be."


    "We have to win!"


    Team A along with Colin raised their fists and yelled, "Victory! Leader''s Dessert!"


    Jayce blinked a few times, dumbfounded. "Huh?"

 Chapter 27: Scouting the Area

    <h4>Chapter 27: Scouting the Area</h4>


    Amidst the heavenly aroma of freshly conjured cream puffs, Jayce found an inexplicable sense of peace while working on his culinary arts. It was as if, when he was cooking, all other thoughts dissolved, leaving his mind as clear as a pristineke, allowing him to savor every moment of the process.


    The sparring session had been a resounding sess, surpassing Jayce''s wildest expectations. The teams fought with unbridled fervor, wielding the formations and tactics he had taught them as if they were experienced fighers. If he didn''t know better, he''d have thought they had battled together for lifetimes.


    Team A, led by the indomitable Colin, emerged victorious, their victories only marred by one asion when a mage''s mana arrow found its way to the back of Colin''s head.


    "Haha, serves you right, you big oaf," Jayce chuckled, his face lighting up at the memory of Colin''s bewildered expression after being struck.


    But as theughter subsided, a serious look washed over Jayce''s features. Tomorrow would be the true test, when the teams would venture out to face real monsters. Sparring was one thing, but the new world was an entirely different battlefield.


    Jayce''s eyes fell on the cream puffs before him, their tantalizing allure a fleeting distraction from his thoughts. "No point in worrying now," he muttered, a mix of determination and concern on his face. Survival in the Apocalypse required strength and vignce.


    With a resolute shake of his head, Jayce lifted the tray of desserts, ready to share them with the winning team. "Dessert is ready!" he called out, hearing some cheers in response.


    ***


    The door of the shelter creaked as Jayce pushed it open, revealing a world that hadn''t been seen for two days. The air outside felt heavy and still, carrying an eerie silence that hung over the deste city. The sun was just beginning to peak over the horizon, casting a faint golden glow on the abandoned streets. What used to be bustling with life and activity was now a hauntingly emptyndscape.


    Jayce stepped out cautiously, apanied by the archers who could see farther than any other ss. Their keen eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for any signs of danger. The city looked like a ghost town, with windows boarded up and doors closed tightly. It was as if the residents had vanished into thin air, leaving behind an empty shell of what was once a livelymunity.


    The Archer''s whispered their observations to Jayce, pointing out possible locations for monsters or potential dangers. Jayce nodded, grateful for their sharp senses, and decided to scout around a bit to get a bettery of thend.


    As they moved through the streets, the destion became more apparent. Piles of rubble and debris littered the ground, evidence of the cataclysmic events that had taken ce. Nature had not yet started reiming the urbanndscape, as it had only been two days since the apocalypse began. The buildings still stood tall and intact, but the silence and emptiness were overwhelming.


    Despite the stillness, there was an underlying feeling of danger in the air. Jayce''s heart pounded in his chest as he led the Archer''s further into the city. He knew that they were treading on dangerous ground, and the need to stay vignt was paramount.


    After thoroughly scouting the area and finding no immediate threats, Jayce gave the all-clear signal, ushering the first group, Team A, to follow. Colin, Jackie, an additional mage, and three swordsmen formed the team, with Lianna joining as the only healer.


    "Alright, everyone, stick together and keep your eyes peeled," Jayce instructed, his voice carrying a sense of urgency. "We''re looking for monsters in small groups. If you see more than five monsters together, it''s time to run. Safetyes first."


    The group nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. Each of them was equipped with their starting gear and weapons, ready to defend themselves against any potential threats.


    As they moved through the city, they maintained a heightened sense of awareness. Every alleyway and building was carefully inspected, and they avoided making unnecessary noise. The once-bustling streets now felt like abyrinth of shadows, and they treaded carefully to avoid attracting any unwanted attention.


    Jayce reminded them, "If youe across anyone alive, do not approach. Stay vignt and be prepared for the unexpected. This world isn''t what it once was, and we can''t take any chances."


    As Team A cautiously moved through the deste city, they suddenly stumbled upon a scene that left some members of the group frozen in fear. Peering from behind the wreckage, they saw a pack of grotesque creatures with hunched figures, gnarled ws, and beady, malevolent eyes. The sight was unlike anything they had encountered before.


    Jayce signaled the team to halt, and they all huddled together, concealing themselves behind a half-copsed building. The sight before them was unsettling, and the stench of decay mixed with the goblins'' foul odor filled the air. These creatures were vile and aggressive, known for their cunning and tendency to attack in groups.


    Jayce noticed the fear in some of their eyes and immediately understood the gravity of the situation. He gestured for everyone to stay low and quiet, urging them to control their breathing. This was their first encounter with real monsters, and their minds were grappling with the horrors of the new world.

 Chapter 28: First Taste of Battle

    <h4>Chapter 28: First Taste of Battle</h4>


    Jayce looked behind him, grabbing their attention and whispered, "Archers, get ready to loose your arrows. Colin, after they shoot I need you to take the vanguard with the swordsmen in tow, just like we practiced."


    Colin and the few swordsmen nodded, everyone looked nervous apart from Colin who was wearing a resolute expression. It looked like therge man was not only determined, but also confident in his ability to protect the party.


    One of the archers, a young man named Ethan, trembled slightly as he struggled to keep hisposure. His hands shook, making it challenging for him to nock an arrow. Beside him, a mage named Lily clutched her staff tightly, her knuckles turning white from the strain.


    Jayce saw this and quietly approached Ethan cing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Stay calm, Ethan. Remember your training. We''ve prepared for this. Breathe slowly, and when you''re ready, take aim."


    Ethan nodded, trying to steady his breathing and regain control of his nerves. Slowly, he followed Jayce''s instructions, taking a deep breath and steadying his hands. With newfound determination, he nocked an arrow and drew his bow, ready to fire.


    Lily still seemed frozen, seeing the Goblins in person seemed to affect her psyche the most out of everyone. This time it was Lianna who moved to calm the nervous mage down, her trust in Jayce had allowed her to rx in the face of danger.


    It seemed to work, as Lily finally stopped shaking. Jayce happened to look back and see Lianna smiling back at him and giving him a thumbs up. He nodded briefly and tried to hide the red blush of his cheeks.


    "Archers, Mages, be ready. On the count of 3, we''ll send the first volley and move into our melee formation. If you miss, don''t panic." Jayce said in a low voice, not waiting for confirmation from the team.


    1


    2


    3


    The two Archers let loose their arrows, the sound of rushing air flew past Jayce''s ears and towards the unaware Goblins.


    The anticipation in the air was palpable as the arrows soared towards their targets. However, to Jayce''s dismay, both Archers missed their shots. Panic flickered in their eyes as they realized the dire situation they were in.


    Thinking quickly, Jayce barked out orders, "Mages, follow up! Jackie, Lily, focus your attacks on the Goblin to the left. Amber, hit the one on the right with your fire spell!"


    The mages nodded, their confidence bolstered by Jayce''smanding presence. Jackie, the frost mage, unleashed a powerful Ice Lance that struck the left Goblin, encasing it in ice and rendering it immobile for a while. Amber, the fire mage, conjured a zing Fireball that hit the other Goblin, scorching its skin and causing it to howl in pain.


    But even as the mages seeded, the situation was far from ideal. The Goblins had now spotted the intruders and were advancing with malicious intent. Jayce''s heart raced as he realized they needed to reorganize quickly.


    "Colin, with me at the front! Swordsmen, form up on our nks. Archers, focus on providing support fire from a distance! Mages, continue with your spells!" Jayce''s voice rang out with authority, guiding his team into position.


    Colin, ever the dependable Guardian, moved to the front of the formation, his massive kite shield held firmly in hand. Jayce stood beside him, his Sashimi knife held tight. The three swordsmen spread out, creating a protective barrier around the mages and archers.


    As the Goblins closed in, Colin executed a taunt, drawing the attention of the enraged creatures. The Goblins rushed towards him, their sharp ws poised and ready to strike.


    "Now, swordsmen, focus on one Goblin at a time! Take them down swiftly and efficiently!" Jaycemanded, his eyes sharp and focused.


    With their leader''s direction, the swordsmen coordinated their attacks, striking with precision and skill. After some persistence they managed to fell one of the Goblins, decapitating it with a final strike.


    However, Jayce noticed that the mages and archers were a bit slow in reacting to the changing dynamics of the battle. Lily''s hands trembled, making it difficult for her to cast her spells urately. Thankfully, Jackie seemed to be urate enough to make up for her mistakes.


    Jayce was in the middle of the vanguard, overseeing the battlefield. Colin seemed to live up to the name "Divine Shield" that the system had given him. Despite having 3 Goblins all focusing their attention on him, it seemed that none of their attacks would get through.


    The big frame andrge kite shield he wielded was like an indomitable castle wall that could never be breached, knocking back the foul creatures and keeping them at bay. While this was great for their formation, guardians were generally incapable of dealingrge amounts of damage.


    If things were to keep up as they were, Colin may get too exhausted to hang on. Jayce turned around, seeing that their backline seemed to be in disarray. Frowning, he called out, "Mages, archers, get into position and attack from a distance! We need your support!"


    Jackie quickly grabbed Lily who was still struggling to get over her fear, and adjusted their positions, finding better angles to target the remaining Goblins. A loud p resounded through the battlefield, however it was quickly drowned out by the sound of ws and swords colliding.


    Arrows and spells flew over the heads of the swordsmen, piercing the remaining Goblins and knocking them back. Howls of pain and blood curdling screams rang out as the Goblins writhed in pain. "Swordsmen!" Jayce yelled, prompting them to run in and finish the job.

 Chapter 29: Spoils

    <h4>Chapter 29: Spoils</h4>


    The sh against the Goblins raged on for a few more intense minutes, the swordsmen finally joining the fray. It was a chaotic skirmish, limbs iling, weapons shing, and spells crackling through the air. Yet, in the midst of the chaos, the party demonstrated remarkable coordination, swiftly dismantling the Goblin threat without sumbing to any grave injuries.


    In the heart of the battle, one figure stood out as a true cornerstone of their victory ¨C Colin. The towering man moved with a surprising grace, skillfully manipting the flow ofbat. He acted as an impregnable bulwark, shielding hispanions from harm and creating strategic openings for their counterattacks. In every sense, Colin embodied the role of a Guardian, as if he had been honing hisbat prowess for years rather than mere days.


    Jayce marveled at Colin''s prowess, momentarily questioning whether this was truly the man''s first taste of battle. Colin''s contribution had been so significant that Jayce found himself relegated to the role of a tactician, issuing orders and orchestrating the battle from the rear. The realization of Colin''s natural aptitude filled Jayce with both wonder and relief, allowing him to focus on guiding their efforts.


    As thest Goblin fell beneath theirbined onught, the group''s spirits soared. Colin, who had yed a pivotal role in their triumph, now leaned on his massive kite shield, engaging in a lively conversation with his wife. The broad grin on his face and his animated gestures conveyed a sense of aplishment, as if he had just achieved a monumental victory.


    Shaking his head with a chuckle, Jayce shifted his attention to the Goblin carcasses strewn about. In this new world, the mechanics of item drops bore simrities to games, yet had a few differences. in monsters left behind tangible remains that could be harvested for raw materials, something not possible in games.


    However, the same could not be said about weapons or essories, which inexplicably disappeared upon death. Jayce hypothesized that these items were intricately bound to the monsters'' souls, dissolving with them upon death.


    Beside raw materials, there was the tantalizing prospect of items and equipment drops. The Goblins, for instance, carried the possibility of dropping health potions and other useful supplies. Even after a decade of navigating the new world, Jayce remained uncertain of the exact variables that influenced drop rates.


    The only thing that was agreed upon by the yers in his past life, was that whenever a boss monster was in for the first time, they would drop at least an epic ranked item. Which was why Factions would do their all to discover these monsters first.


    Gathering around the Goblin remains, the party disyed a mixture of relief and tion. But Jayce swiftly put a stop to anycency with his reminder, his words cutting through the air like a hot knife. "Stay vignt, everyone. We are not safe until we arrive back at the shelter."


    Addressing the archers, Jayce issued his next order, his voiceden with authority. "Archers, maintain your watch for any signs of movement."


    With solemn nods, the two archers positioned themselves at opposite ends of the alleyway, their keen eyes scanning the surroundings for any potential threats.


    Jayce''s gaze then swept over hisrades, his voice an unwaveringmand. "Check your statuses. Ensure your mana and health reserves are sufficient in case we face another confrontation. If you''ve gained a level, allocate your stat points ording to our earlier discussions, aligning with the strengths of your respective sses."


    Their prior conversations had emphasized the importance of strategic stat distribution, a fundamental principle that Jayce sought to instill within the minds of his faction members. The prospect of a mage without Intelligence or a swordsmancking in strength was unthinkable.


    As for Jayce, he harbored intentions of enhancing his Luck attribute, capitalizing on the benefits of the VIP15 skill. The skill''s capacity to permanently amplify his own attributes and those of his faction members was an opportunity too invaluable to overlook.


    Jayce wasn''t sure what main stats his Chef ss used, but he had been nning on increasing his Luck attribute to take advantage of the VIP15 skill. Not only could he permanently boost his own stats, he could also bolster his own faction, which was too good not to invest in.


    The only issue was that experience gain was not a static thing. Distribution was not even across all party members like in some games, which had its good and bad points.


    The system handed out experience based on a few factors, some were known and some were unknown. What Jayce knew was that delivering the final blow to an enemy would grant bonus experience, while doing the most damage would also give a bonus. There were also less intuitive factors such as participation and tactical bonuses.


    All in all, the system had its own judgment of experience distribution, and there was not much that he or anyone else could do to manipte it. Unless they wanted to hunt solo and monopolize the experience for themselves.


    From Jayce''s assessment of their first fight, Colin would have taken the lion''s share, followed by Jackie and the swordsmen.


    Jayce bent down and collected the drops from the Goblins which happened to be a few health potions and consumables. His eyes twinkled as he saw the green consumable potion, which would give temporary stat boosts, simr to the meals he made.


    However a distant memory suddenly surged into his mind, as if it had been purposefully buried for a long time. He looked down at the ss vial that held the green substance and shuddered, remembering the god-awful taste.


    [Goblin''s Tonic +1 Strength for 1 hour]


    Description: Home brewed strength potion, made by a Goblin Shaman. Despite its foul taste, it is not toxic. Rmended to consume on an empty stomach.


    "Leader!" a tremulous cry echoed through the air, causing Jayce''s lootden hands to nearly falter their grasp.


    Startled, he swiftly regained hisposure and responded, "What is it?" His voice resonated with the calm of a seasoned veteran.


    The archer''s voice quivered as he stammered out his words, "F-Five Goblins are advancing this way."


    The disquiet quickly rippled through the party like a silent tide, each member tensing in readiness as their eyes darted around the vicinity, seeking out the iing threat.


    Jayce''s gaze swept the surroundings, assessing their situation. Even without the advantage of ambush, they could still hold their ground and engage, provided it was just 5 Goblins. "Take your positions, mages behind me," Jaycemanded, his voice resonating with certainty.


    Orders rang out, the group falling into the familiar choreography of battle formations. Yet, in the midst of the tactical adjustments, an archer stationed at the rear called out. "Leader, another Goblin is headed our way."


    Jayce''s brows knitted in a deep frown, a heavy weight of unease settling upon him. Goblins were rarely solitary creatures, their predilection for pack behavior well-known in hisst life. His previous engagement with a single Goblin had likely urred due to the nascent stages of the game''s descent, perhaps temporarily separating the lone creature from its pack.


    His voice edged with concern, he inquired, "What is the Goblin wearing?"


    Confusion momentarily clouded the archer''s expression before he cast another nce at the approaching figure and reported, "It''s draped in a rough hessian robe, clutching a crude staff."


    Jayce''s face fell, looking grave. "Shit¡­ A Goblin Shaman"

 Chapter 30: Goblin Shaman (1)

    <h4>Chapter 30: Goblin Shaman (1)</h4>


    Lianna''s concerned gaze locked onto Jayce''s eyes, her voice breaking through the turmoil in his mind. "Jayce, what is a Goblin Shaman?"


    But he barely registered her question, consumed by the tumult of his thoughts as he wrestled with the cruel calculus of survival. The archer''s voice pierced the haze of his contemtion once more with a sense of urgency. "They''re nearly upon us, Leader."


    The weight of hispanions'' expectations bore down on him, their eyes fixed upon him, awaiting his strategy. A suffocating pressure seemed to envelop him, their very lives hanging in the bnce of his decisions.


    As the weight of his thoughts threatened to crush him entirely, a hard p on his back sent shockwaves through Jayce''s frame. Colin''s powerful hand had struck him with unexpected force, jolting him from his mental paralysis. The impact was enough to send him stumbling, his bnce teetering on the brink of copse. But the p also ignited a flicker of resolve within him, a spark of determination to act in the face of adversity.


    For a moment, Jayce''s eyes met Colin''s, the unspoken trust between them an unbreakable bond. With a firm nod and a thumbs up, Colin wordlessly conveyed his readiness to take on the imminent threat.


    Suddenly, rity surged through Jayce''s mind like a torrent, carving a decisive path through the chaos. With a resolute voice, he barked out his orders, his words crisp and unwavering. "Colin, hold off those five Goblins on your own! The rest of you, with me. Our priority is the Shaman." His tone resonated with authority, carrying the weight of their dire circumstances.


    Colin shed a confident thumbs up, his unwavering determination mirrored in his expression. As the tension loomed, Jackie pressed a brief kiss on Colin''s lips, whispering, "Stay safe."


    With an urgency that mirrored their imminent peril, Jayce urged his party forward, each step driven by a fierce determination to confront the Goblin Shaman head-on. His mind raced, piecing together the information he knew about these creatures.


    If they allowed the Shaman to remain unscathed, its dark magic could amplify the strength of the other Goblins, putting the party in a perilous situation. This was something that he could not allow to happen.


    The party surged forward with determination, closing in on the menacing figure of the Goblin Shaman. The creature''s long, pointy ears twitched, its wrinkled face contorting with malicious glee as it raised its crude wooden staff high, beginning a guttural incantation that reverberated through the air. Its matted grey hair framed its gnarled features, and unlike the regr Goblins, the shaman''s eyes held hints of intelligence, a disturbing glint that spoke of malevolent knowledge.


    Jayce''s voice cut through the charged atmosphere like a de. "Archers, mages, now! Interrupt that spell!"


    The archers and mages quickly readied their attacks, drawing back bows and charging spells with hurried fervor. But in the critical moment, whether due to nerves or inexperience, the arrows went astray, and the mages'' incantations were too sluggish to manifest in time.


    The Goblin Shaman''s incantation reached its crescendo, marked by a ferocious growl that sent a shiver down Jayce''s spine. In an instant, a fiery orb erupted from the tip of the shaman''s staff, hurtling towards the party with deadly intent. The impact was devastating; the force of the explosion sent the swordsmen hurtling backward, the shockwave battering against their defenses.


    Jayce''s instincts kicked in, his body moving with fluid precision as he narrowly evaded the fiery onught. The scorching heat grazed his skin, the intensity of the mes singeing his senses. Without hesitation, he charged forward, summoning his chef''s knife from his inventory, his fingers dancing over the hilt with practiced finesse.


    There was no time to look back at the fallen swordsmen; the urgency of the moment spurred him forward. A sudden warmth enveloped him, a protective aura that wrapped around his form like a shield. Lianna''s Blessing of Protection hade just in time, a silent gesture of support that he inwardly thanked her for.


    With unyielding resolve, Jayce closed the distance, his de arcing towards the Goblin Shaman''s twisted grin. But the creature''s gnarled staff shot up with astonishing speed, meeting the sashimi knife in a sh of sparks that echoed through the alley. Jayce''s muscles strained against the force of the impact, his determination etched into every fiber of his being.


    Locked in this intense struggle, their eyes locked, and for a fleeting moment, Jayce glimpsed the twisted intelligence that flickered within the Goblin Shaman''s gaze. It was a battle of wills as much as it was a sh of weapons, a test of resolve that would determine the fate of this encounter.


    As they remained locked in the impasse, Jayce shouted through gritted teeth, "Mages!" He did not know how long he could hold on before he was overpowered, especially since his starting stats were so lowpared to everyone.


    Thankfully in the next moment an Icence flew past his side and entered the stomach of the Goblin Shaman which forced it back enough for Jayce to move into a more favorable position. Unfortunately, the damage taken was only miniscule.


    His body once again felt a familiar warm sensation, followed by a notification.


    [You have been healed - 50HP regenerated]


    Jayce was confused for a moment, he had not been struck and should be at full HP, why was Lianna healing him? However in the next moment he understood. With his Executive Chef skill, whatever abilities or buffs that were used on him were transmitted to his faction, as long as they were within 100m of each other.


    If he wasn''t so preupied, he would have turned around and given Lianna a massive thumbs up. It was clear that this woman was as intelligent as she was pretty.

 Chapter 31 Goblin Shaman (2)

    31 Goblin Shaman (2)


    The sh between Jayce and the Goblin Shaman intensified, their weapons colliding with a resounding ng that echoed through the alley. But the Goblin Shaman''s cunning was apparent as it abruptly struck the ground with its staff, a shockwave rippling outward. Jayce was sent tumbling backward, his bnce shattered by the force of the blow. His body collided with the ground, a dull ache radiating through his bones.


    Regaining his footing, Jayce''s gaze snapped back to the Goblin Shaman, his heart racing. The malevolent creature had once again begun its incantation, a spellden with ominous energy. But this time, without even needing Jayce''smand, the mages and archers sprang into action. A fiery ball of destruction, an icynce of precision, and a whirling wind de converged upon the Goblin Shaman in a cacophony of elemental fury.


    Thebined assault struck true, causing the Goblin Shaman to stagger under the onught. The incantation shattered, its concentration obliterated by the disruptive barrage. With its guard momentarilypromised, the Shaman was vulnerable.


    The three swordsmen, having recovered from the earlier st,unched into action. Their movements were precise and coordinated, theirbat formation a well-oiled machine. des sliced through the air with deadly intent, and the Goblin Shaman found itself trapped within a web of strikes and feints. Slowly but surely, the swordsmen were picking apart the Shaman''s defenses.


    Jayce''s eyes remained fixed on the battle, his patience a testament to his tactical acumen. He watched, biding his time, as chaos erupted around him. The sh of steel, the crackling of spells, and the guttural cries ofbat filled the air. Amidst the fray, an opening presented itself, a fleeting vulnerability that Jayce seized upon.


    In an instant, his muscles coiled, his resolve crystallizing into action. He pushed himself forward, a burst of strength propelling him between two of the swordsmen. His sashimi knife became an extension of his will, aimed unerringly at the Goblin Shaman''s exposed heart.


    The de found its mark with a sickening thud, piercing through flesh and bone. A guttural roar of pain and fury erupted from the Goblin Shaman, its grotesque face contorted in agony. Blood spurted from the wound, sttering the ground in a macabre dance.


    As Jayce''s de struck true, time itself seemed to falter. The chaotic battlefield faded into silence, as if the world held its breath. All sounds turned mute, save for the rhythmic cadence of blood dripping onto the ground. Jayce''s wide eyes were fixed on the Goblin Shaman, his senses acutely attuned to the raging energies emanating from the wounded creature.


    In the heart-stopping instant that followed, the Goblin Shaman''s malevolence shifted, its aura spiraling into a vortex of ominous power. Jayce''s panic surged, an icy chill coursing down his spine. The world around him quivered, the air thick with foreboding. And then, with an eruption of raw energy, reality itself shattered.


    A devastating force erupted from the Shaman, a surge of power that sent everyone hurtling through the air once more. The party was flung like rag dolls, their bodies tumbling and crashing against the alley''s walls. Agonizing painnced through their forms as they were mmed unceremoniously against the unforgiving surfaces.


    And there, amidst the chaos, stood the Goblin Shaman. Its matted gray hair now a fiery crimson, its skin turning a sickly shade of red that exuded an aura of dread. The creature remained stationary, its malevolence growing in intensity. The very air seemed to tremble in its presence, and the ground beneath it cracked with each step.


    Jayce''s voice cut through the disarray, his toneced with shock and urgency, "Berserk Shaman!" The words sent a wave of panic rippling through the party. The terror etched onto Jayce''s face was enough tomunicate the direness of the situation.


    Lianna''s voice trembled as she called out to Jayce, desperation in her eyes, "What do we do?"


    Jayce''s mind raced, his thoughts a whirlwind of chaos and determination. He knew the danger they faced, the impending catastrophe of a Berserk Shaman. His jaw tightened, and his resolve solidified. He turned his gaze toward the maelstrom of power before him.


    "It''s invulnerable right now," Jayce dered. "We need to wait for the transformation to run its course."


    Jayce frowned, a normal Goblin Shaman should not have the ability to turn Berserk, which could only mean one thing. The Shaman was a boss monster, something that they should not even consider fighting at their level.


    Holding back a sigh, Jayce reached into his inventory, retrieving a collection of food and the Green Consumable potions he had acquired earlier. "Time to power up." he muttered, dreading the horrible taste that he knew wasing. He had no choice but to resort to what came next.


    [You have consumed Goblin Shaman''s Tonic +1 Strength for 1 hour]


    The moment the concoction touched his tongue, a wave of revulsion surged through his being. The taste was an assault on his senses, a repulsive mixture of rancid herbs and nauseating bitterness. It clung to his pte like a malevolent specter, a foul residue that seemed to defy any attempts to cleanse it away. The very essence of the potion seemed to coat his mouth with its repugnant presence, leaving a lingering aftertaste that was nothing short of loathsome.


    Gritting his teeth, he uncorked the next vial and emptied the thick contents into his mouth once more. The misery he was experiencing seemed to be multiplied with the addition of the second tonic, almost causing him to empty the contents of his stomach.


    [You have consumed Goblin Shaman''s Tonic +1 Strength for 1 hour]


    [Your skill VIP15 has made this boost permanent]


    Thankfully, there was a silver lining in all of his suffering. The trusty VIP15 skill had done its job, delivering him from the mouth of hell into the gates of heaven.


    However, the utter misery he was experiencing while consuming the "non-toxic" tonic was indescribable. There was a reason why the yers in hisst life would only consume the tonic if there was no other choice.


    Dropping this one early, as I won''t be able to post one tomorrow.

 Chapter 32 Binge Eating to get stronger?

    32 Binge Eating to get stronger?


    In the midst of the tension and danger, Jayce''s actions seemed almost surreal. With urgency burning in his eyes, he hastily shoved the prepared food into his mouth, his focus unswayed by the notifications that popped up before him. It was a sight that seemed oddlyical, if not for the overwhelming dread emanating from the Berserk Shaman.


    Lianna and the rest of the party watched on, a mixture of concern and bemusement etched across their faces. Jayce''s determination was unquestionable, his willingness to embrace any advantage in their desperate situation evident in his hurried consumption of the assorted dishes he had prepared.


    As he devoured the food, the notifications continued to fill his vision, but Jayce ignored them. There was no time for distractions now. The moment felt almost absurd, a stark contrast to the dire circumstances they found themselves in. But Jayce knew that the path to survival often veered into the realm of the unconventional.


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Jayce stood up. A wince of difort shed across his features as he felt the aftermath of his hurried feast. His stomach protested the sudden influx of sustenance, a buffet''s worth of food crammed within. It was an ufortable sensation, to say the least.


    However, a giant grin crept onto his face which was now unceremoniously covered with all kinds of food and sauces. As a precaution, Jayce had made all types of foodst night, not for a pic but just in case they got into any trouble.


    The menu included sandwiches, rice balls, sushi and even some cream puffs that were leftover, all of which he had just shoved into his mouth and chowed down. For each piece of food, he was given a stat boost, making these snacks the most stat effective items he owned.


    The reason why he was grinning so hard, was that during his consumption of sushi, he saw his VIP15 skill trigger two times. This meant that his VIP15 skill was not limited to one activation per item, and as long as he had these items, there was a chance of the skill activating.


    "Lianna, put a heal on me and cast the Blessing of Protection once more." Jayce said, his eyes still focused on the stationary Shaman.


    Lianna looked at Jayce with an odd gaze before eventuallyplying. Feeling the warmth wash over his body, Jayce clenched his fists, feeling an old but familiar power coursing through his body.


    He looked around at his party who seemed a little worse for ware, especially the swordsmen who despite being just healed, seemed spent.


    "Everyone, get ready. Mages ready your spells, Archers nock your arrows. As soon as the Shaman takes a step forward, throw everything you''ve got at it." Jayce ordered, the tone of confidence in his voice was unquestionable.


    "Swordsmen, follow my lead." He added. With that, he essed his status screen to take a quick look before the battle started once again.


    Name: Jayce


    Title: N/A


    ss: Chef


    Subss: N/A


    Level: 2


    EXP: 100/200


    Health 120/120


    Mana: 70/70


    Strength: 3 (+10)


    Dexterity: 3 (+8)


    Intelligence: 2 (+8)


    Vitality: 4 (+15)


    Luck: 27


    "41 additional stats." Jayce murmured, quickly doing some calctions. Regr yers were meant to begin with 20 starting stats, disregarding the Luck stat. If they gained 5 stats per level, then with his current boost, he should be equal to a level 7 or thereabouts.


    "It should be enough¡­" With a grin, he scrolled down and selected a skill. Although it was a passive skill, it needed to be refreshed whenever a temporary or permanent boost was added.


    [Executive Chef skill reactivated]


    ***


    A few minutes earlier, Colin made contact with the pack of goblins, his towering frame a stark contrast to their diminutive size. With the rest of the party on their way to assault the Goblin Shaman, he had no choice but to hold off until the threat was neutralized.


    The goblins, their eyes burning with a frenzied aggression, charged forward without hesitation. Their fangs bared and ws poised for attack, they lunged at Colin with a savage determination. The sheer audacity of these small creatures to challenge him, a towering figure of strength, did not go unnoticed. A sense of grim amusement flickered in Colin''s eyes as he braced himself for the confrontation.


    Casually, he swung therge kite shield off his back and positioned it before him. With a calcted motion, he enacted his taunt skill, a move that would focus the attention of the goblins solely onto him. A ze of red ignited within the eyes of the goblins, their aggressive instincts honing in on the imposing figure before them.


    As the goblins lunged, their weight collided against the shield with a jarring impact. Colin strained under the force, his muscles taut as he fought to maintain his stance. In a disy of brute force, he executed a powerful shield bash, sending several of the goblins hurtling into the unforgiving wall of a nearby building. The resounding crash echoed through the deste streets, a testament to Colin''s overwhelming might.


    With the immediate threat partially mitigated, Colin drew his sword, his movements fluid despite the cumbersome weight of his equipment. He exploited the gap he had created, thrusting his de forward with precision. The sharp tip of the sword found its mark, impaling one of the goblins. Yet, even in its moment of agony, the goblin clung tenaciously to the sword, its grip unyielding.


    Colin''s eyes widened in realization, his decision swift. Abandoning his sword, he relinquished his hold on the weapon before it created arge opening in his defenses. However, his calcted evasion was not swift enough to dodge the onught of the remaining goblins. One of them executed a shing strike, tearing into Colin''s ribs with a searing pain that radiated through his body.


    Gritting his teeth against the torment, Colin''s resolve burned brighter. He would not falter, not in the face of these relentless adversaries. His towering form remained a formidable obstacle, a bulwark against the goblin onught. With each blow he weathered, each injury he endured, his determination only intensified.


    Through the pain, Colin fought on, his actions a testament to his unyielding spirit. The battle raged


    around him, chaos and desperation enveloping the once-bustling city streets. Yet, Colin stood firm, a pir of strength amidst the turmoil, holding back the tide of goblin aggression with an unwavering resolve.

 Chapter 33 Divine Shield

    33 Divine Shield


    Colin''s fight against the goblins was a dance of blood and brutality. Despite his imposing stature, he sustained multiple wounds over the ensuing minutes, the savagery of the goblins'' attacks leaving deep gashes that oozed crimson. His strength began to wane, his movements growing sluggish as the loss of blood took its toll.


    Astonishingly, he had managed to incapacitate one of the goblins, a testament to his prowess even in the midst of his own vulnerability. Yet, the remaining goblins proved to be formidable opponents, their seemingly chaotic assaults masking a calcted intelligence that Colin had initially underestimated. Their attacks were seamless, using decoys and coordinated maneuvers to exploit openings and sink their vicious ws and teeth into his flesh.


    Colin''s mighty form was gradually forced to one knee, his breathbored as dizziness threatened to overtake him. His vision blurred, a veil of darkness edging at the corners. Just as he teetered on the brink of unconsciousness, a warm surge of energy washed over him, rekindling his spirit and rejuvenating his body. Instinctively, he knew he had been healed, though he had no time to ascertain the source or mechanism behind it.


    Renewed determination coursed through Colin''s veins, his senses sharpened and his resolve reignited. With a fierce battle cry, he unleashed a powerful shield bash, catching the goblins off guard and sending them stumbling. Seizing the opportunity, he abandoned his defense and surged forward with newfound speed, his colossal frame closing the distance with surprising agility.


    Amidst the fray, he reached the spot where his sword remained lodged in the goblin he had initially incapacitated. A resounding stomp crushed the life from the fallen goblin, granting Colin ess to his weapon. With a seamless motion, he wrenched the de free, the metallic rasp punctuating his resolve.


    A tenacious roar tore from his throat, a challenge flung defiantly at the goblins that surrounded him. His eyes zed with a fiery determination, a beacon of unwavering will amidst the chaos. Colin stood his ground, his broad shoulders squared, his sword held high.


    "Come and get it!" he thundered, his voice a rallying cry that echoed through the deste streets. In that moment, Colin became an indomitable force, a guardian undaunted by adversity, ready to face whatever the goblins could muster.


    In that moment, the 4 remaining goblins froze, staring at the towering figure with arge and bloodied kite shield and sword in his hand. Colin sneered, "What''s the matter, finally feeling some fear?" he spat out with augh.


    However, the pause was brief, as a sinister transformation began to unfold before Colin''s eyes. The goblins'' green skin took on a sickly shade of crimson, their hair turning a fiery hue to match. Saliva dripped from their gaping mouths, their expressions contorting into a twisted madness that sent a shiver down Colin''s spine.


    An intense, searing heat radiated from the goblins, engulfing the air around them in an aura of dread. Colin''s features paled, a sense of burning foreboding wing its way into his consciousness. Yet, his resolve held firm. With a fierce determination, he mmed his kite shield down before him, the impact resonating through the streets like a thunderous challenge.


    "Come at me, you bastards!" His roar reverberated with unwavering defiance, a battle cry that echoed his undying determination to protect and endure, to stand unbroken in the face of the unknown.


    The goblinsplied, their berserk frenzy propelling them forward with reckless abandon. Colin braced himself, every muscle tense as the sh ofbat drew near. However, at the brink of confrontation, an inexplicable surge of power coursed through his veins, a rush of strength that ignited his very being.


    A surge of newfound energy engulfed Colin, infusing his bones and sinews with an unquantifiable might. Doubled power surged through him, overwhelming his senses with an intoxicating confidence that shattered any remnants of doubt or fear. The world seemed to slow around him, his instincts heightened to an otherworldly level.


    As the goblins reached his shield, Colin''s body moved with an agility and precision that defied his massive frame. In one seamless motion, he unleashed a devastating shield bash that collided with the charging goblins. The sound of breaking bones and shattering flesh filled the streets, the impact hurling two of the berserk goblins into the unforgiving embrace of a building wall.


    The two goblinsy still, their frenzied assault abruptly ended by the force of Colin''s mighty blow. A hushed stillness descended upon the scene, the battle''s ferocity culminating in an eerie quiet as the streets bore witness to the disturbing scene.


    In the next moment, the two remaining goblins lunged at Colin, their berserker frenzy undeterred by the fall of theirpanions. With a fluid grace that belied his massive frame, Colin met their onught head-on, his movements a symphony of power and precision.


    In the blink of an eye, Colin''s shield whipped through the air, its imposing weight a deadly extension of his will. The shield struck one goblin with a bone-shattering impact, sending it crashing to the ground. Before the fallen creature could react, Colin''s sword descended with uncanny uracy, the de finding its mark between the goblin''s eyes. The goblin''s struggles ceased instantly, its life extinguished by Colin''s unerring strike.


    Meanwhile, the second goblin closed in from behind, its frenzied momentum carrying it toward Colin''s exposed back. A sudden surge of awareness prickled at Colin''s senses, a sensation like a rushing wind that whispered a warning. Without hesitation, he dropped his sword and shield, his body moving on instinct alone.


    In one fluid motion, Colin spun on his heel, his powerful arms outstretched like a predator ready to strike. His hands closed around the goblin''s head with a vice-like grip, the goblin''s eyes widening in terror as it realized the gravity of its mistake. Colin''s fingers tightened, a primal force coursing through his muscles as he brought his hands together with crushing force.


    The sickening crunch of bone and the squelch of flesh reverberated through the air, drowned out only by the goblin''s pitiful cry that was abruptly cut short. Brain fluids and fragments of shattered skull sprayed out in a grotesque disy, painting the deste surroundings in a macabre tableau of violence.


    For a brief, suspended moment, time seemed to freeze, the aftermath of Colin''s brutal maneuver casting a surreal stillness over the scene. As the echoes of battle subsided, Colin stood amidst the carnage, his chest heaving and his body bathed in a mixture of sweat and blood.


    [Congrattions, you have leveled up!]


    [Congrattions, you have leveled up!]


    [Congrattions, you have leveled up!]


    Thanks for reading, please send through your power stones! Let me know what you think so far.


    leeroycgna

 Chapter 34 Last Hit

    34 Last Hit


    Amidst the chaotic battlefield, Jayce stood before the transforming Goblin Shaman, his mind focused and his heart resolute. With a decisive gesture, he activated the power of the Executive Chef''s skill, unleashing a surge of strength that coursed through the veins of his party members like a torrential wave.


    A palpable aura of invigoration enveloped the swordsmen, their bodies trembling as newfound power flowed through them. Bewildered nces were exchanged between them, uncertainty etched across their faces. Before they could voice their questions, the Shaman''s roar shattered the momentary stillness, sending forth a shockwave of energy that bore down on the party like an insurmountable weight.


    But the party was not to be deterred. Fueled by the unexpected boost in strength, the mages and archers sprang into action. Arcane spells crackled to life, and arrows were loosed with unerring precision, converging on the transforming Shaman. The onught of spells and projectiles pummeled the Shaman, driving it backward until it collided with the unforgiving wall of a nearby building, momentarily stunning the frenzied creature.


    Jayce''s voice pierced through the chaos, "Swordsmen! With me!". With unwavering determination, hemanded the swordsmen to follow him, his own resolve mirrored in their eyes. The newfound strength surged through Jayce''s limbs, propelling him forward with an explosive burst of speed that left his chef''s hat clinging tenaciously to his head.


    As the Shaman struggled to regain its footing, Jayce closed the distance in an instant, his sashimi knife gleaming in the dim light. The de arced through the air, biting into the Shaman''s flesh with a savage precision. A gaping wound was rent across the creature''s body, a result of Jayce''s increased stat boost and the lethal uracy of his strike.


    The swordsmen descended upon the immobilized Shaman, their des finding purchase in the creature''s flesh with merciless determination. Piercing and shing strikes rained down upon the Shaman, each blow driven by a potent cocktail of resolve and violence. Their eyes burned with an intensity that mirrored the mes of battle, as the party united in a synchronized dance of destruction.


    The wounded Shaman thrashed and roared in a desperate bid to break free from the onught, its crimson eyes wide with a mixture of pain and fury.


    The battlefield was a maelstrom of violence and chaos as the Goblin Shaman continued tosh out in a desperate bid for survival. Its crude staff swung wildly, its frenzied movements a testament to thest vestiges of its dying strength. But it was a futile struggle. The party, bolstered by the surge of power that Jayce''s skill had granted them, proved to be an unstoppable force.


    Blows rained down upon the Shaman, the swordsmen attacking with relentless precision. The sh of steel against flesh and bone filled the air, each strike inching them closer to victory. The Shaman''s attempts to dislodge its attackers grew feeble, its movements bing sluggish as the strength drained from its body.


    Time seemed to stretch on, each moment an eternity as the party pressed their advantage. And then, as if a spell had been broken, the Shaman''s struggles began to ebb. Its movements grew slower, its once-ferocious roars reduced to feeble gasps. The light in its crimson eyes dimmed, reced by a vacant emptiness.


    Jayce''s eyes gleamed with determination as he seized the opportunity. With a swift and decisive motion, he maneuvered the razor-sharp edge of his sashimi knife. The de descended with deadly uracy, severing the Shaman''s head from its body in a single clean stroke. The creature''s sluggish 10:39


    movements came to an abrupt halt, its severed head hitting the ground with a sickening thud.


    uracy, severing the Shaman''s head from its body in a single clean stroke. The creature''s sluggish movements came to an abrupt halt, its severed head hitting the ground with a sickening thud.


    The swordsmen, lost in the heat of battle, seemed not to notice the cessation of their enemy''s struggles. Their swords continued to pierce the flesh of the fallen Shaman, each strike filled with a desire to survive. But in the next moment, Jayce''s voice cut through the haze of battle, bringing the swordsmen back from their frenzy.


    "It''s over."


    [You have in - Goblin Shaman Boss]


    [You have gained 1000 EXP]


    [Congrattions, you have leveled up!]


    [Congrattions, you have leveled up!]


    [Congrattions, you have leveled up!]


    [You are the first to kill a Goblin Shaman Boss and will receive an epic item]


    [Goblin Staff (Epic) acquired]


    Exhaustion hung heavy in the air, weighing down the swordsmen as they copsed to the ground, their breaths ragged and their bodies trembling with fatigue. The fierce battle against the Goblin Shaman had taken its toll, pushing them to the limits of their endurance. Their chests heaved with eachbored breath, and they exchanged weary nces, a silent acknowledgment of the tremendous effort they had exerted.


    Amidst the aftermath of the battle, Jayce spared a brief moment to check his notifications, his face etched with concern. His thoughts were immediately drawn to Colin, the stalwart Guardian who had faced the onught of five Goblins alone. Jayce''s brows furrowed, his worry evident as he surveyed the area where Colin had been left.


    "We can''t stay here," he dered, urgencycing his words as he turned his gaze back to his exhaustedrades. "We need to help Colin."


    Without waiting for a response, Jayce set off in a determined sprint, the rest of the party following in his wake. Their concern for Colin spurred them forward, their hearts racing with a mixture of fear and determination. As they reached the spot where they had left Colin to hold back the Goblins, a sight greeted their eyes that left them momentarily stunned.


    Colin stood amidst the chaos, his back to them, his head raised to the sky. His posture exuded a sense of strength and resolution, a silent testament to his unwavering will. Strewn around him like morbid sculptures were the lifeless bodies of the five Goblins, each one a grim testament to the ferocity of his struggle.


    The sight was so jarring that Lily couldn''t contain her visceral reaction, sinking to her knees and retching. Jackie''s focus, however, was solely on Colin. She dashed towards him, her worry palpable as she threw herself upon him, checking for any signs of injury. Colin''s body seemed to radiate a sense of exhaustion, yet his vitality remained unbroken.


    Meanwhile, Jayce observed the macabre scene with a mixture of awe and respect. The name "Divine Shield" had taken on a new depth of meaning, embodying Colin''s unyielding determination and indomitable spirit. The Guardian had embraced his role to its fullest, bing a bastion of strength in the face of overwhelming odds.


    Jackie managed to g down Lianna, who hurried over to heal Colin''s wounds. The healer''s magic worked its restorative magic, and a sense of relief spread through the party as they witnessed Colin''s wellbeing being ensured.


    In the midst of the reunion and the collective sighs of relief, Colin turned his gaze towards Jayce. Their eyes met, and in that unspoken moment, a profound understanding passed between them. This new world was unforgiving and treacherous, yet it held boundless potential for those who were willing to adapt and ovee. Colin''s mindset had been transformed through the crucible of battle, and the unspoken vow between leader and guardian was etched in the resolve that burned within their hearts.


    Thanks for reading. I''m getting some chapters in the bank for priv tiers next month. How are you guys liking the story so far?


    leeroycgna

 Chapter 35 Return

    35 Return


    As the weary party returned to the shelter, their steps heavy and their bodies drained from the intense battle, the inhabitants gathered around eagerly, their eyes alight with curiosity and anticipation.


    However, upon their arrival, it was clear that the party was in no condition to share their stories. Fatigue clung to them like a heavy cloak, their faces drawn and their movements sluggish. Jayce stepped forward, his voice gentle yet authoritative as he addressed the expectant crowd.


    "We''ll hold a meeting tonight, after everyone has had a chance to rest," he announced, his words met with a mixture of understanding and disappointment from the gathering. They knew that the party had faced danger out in the city, and their well-being was a priority.


    With a nod of agreement, Jayce led the party back towards their living quarters. Once in the safety andfort of their base, he turned his attention to the kitchen, the heart of their operations. Despite his own weariness, a sense of purpose fueled his actions.


    Determined to aid hisrades in recovering from their exhaustion, Jayce set to work crafting a nutritious and revitalizing meal. He understood that healing magic could only do so much; true vitality required sustenance and proper nourishment.


    After the party had dispatched the Goblin threat, they had ventured out into the surrounding areas, cautiously exploring without engaging in further battles. Jayce''s leadership shone through as he prioritized caution and vignce, determined to prevent any unnecessary risks. His familiarity with the local terrain allowed him to guide the group through shops and back alleys, gathering provisions that now sat within his inventory. With these ingredients, the list of meals he could prepare expanded.


    Before deciding on the specifics of the meal, Jayce paused to open his status screen.


    Name: Jayce


    Title: N/A


    ss: Chef


    Subss: N/A


    Level: 5


    EXP: 100/800


    Health 200/200


    Mana: 90/90


    Strength: 6 (+3)


    Dexterity: 6 (+2)


    Intelligence: 5 (+2)


    Vitality: 7 (+9)


    Luck: 27


    Stat Points: 21


    The first thing he noticed was that he was now level 5, meaning he had received 3 levels from fighting the initial 5 goblins, and felling the Goblin Shaman boss shortly afterwards. Although most of the experience would havee from delivering the killing blow.


    Another thing that caught his attention was the permanent stat boosts which had risen from a total 10:40


    of 5, to 16 as a result of his mid-fight eating spree. Remembering the suffering he went through with the Goblin Shaman Tonic, he almost retched as a subconscious response.


    However this was not the best news. During his eating spree, he heard the notification for the VIP15 skill trigger two times on the same type of sushi, which meant that he could now change his strategy for stat boosting, putting him in a fantastic mood.


    What only made his mood grow happier, was that he received an Epic drop from the Goblin Shaman Boss monster. Although it wasn''t an item that he could use personally, it showed that he was ahead of the other supporters at least.


    What he really had his eyes set on was the first prize in the World Quest¡­ The unique skill.


    Nheless, he decided to inspect the new item which he hadn''t had a chance to do yet.


    Goblin Staff (Epic)


    Description:


    Forged in the crucible of chaos and magic, the Goblin Staff is a rare relic that embodies the raw power and primal energy of the Goblin Shaman. This staff, once wielded by a creature of malevolent intelligence, radiates an aura of both mystique and danger. Its gnarled and twisted form tells the tale of its origins, a story of fervent incantations and ruthless battle.


    Attributes:


    Intelligence +20: The essence of the Goblin Shaman''s arcane knowledge has been absorbed into the staff, providing a significant boost to the wielder''s intelligence. The staff itself seems to whisper secrets of forgotten spells and ancient rituals to those attuned to its power.


    Vitality +5: The Goblin Staff emanates a subtle life force, bestowing a small measure of enhanced vitality upon its bearer. This gift of resilience bolsters the body, granting a touch of endurance in the face of adversity.


    Effects:


    Haste: The chaotic energies that infuse the staff grant the wielder an increased spellcasting speed. Spells are woven with greater finesse and expedience, allowing for swifter maniption of arcane forces. Spellcasting time is reduced by 40%, enabling the caster to react swiftly to the ebb and flow of battle.


    Berserker: A touch of the Goblin Shaman''s berserker nature lingers within the staff, granting a chance to inflict a berserk status on enemies. When triggered, this effect reduces the intelligence of affected foes, plunging them into a state of feral aggression and impulsive action. The enemies'' strategic acumen ispromised, making them more susceptible to erratic decisions.


    Elemental Affinity: The staff''s intimate connection with the elemental energies of the world enhances the wielder''s affinity to various elements. Spells that harness fire, ice, lightning, and other natural forces are imbued with greater potency and precision. This affinity empowers the caster to channel and manipte elemental magic with heightened control and effectiveness.


    Note:


    The Goblin Staff is a potent artifact that bears the marks of its chaotic origins. Its uniquebination of attributes and effects offers both offensive and strategic advantages to those who dare to wield it.


    Furthermore, it is important to note that the staff emanates a palpable aura of hatred among nearby Goblins. In their societies, the Goblin Shamans hold a revered and respected position, acting as conduits to the spirit world and wielders of profound mystical authority. To witness another species wielding the sacred Goblin Staff is considered sphemous and heretical, as it defies the cultural and spiritual norms of the Goblin camps. This underlying enmity might provoke the ire of Goblins and incite conflict for those who bear the staff, serving as a testament to the deep-seated reverence and fear the Goblin Shamansmand.


    Level requirement: 5


    Jayce''s eyes widened as he continued to read the detailed description of the Goblin Staff, his disbelief growing with each word. "I''ve never seen such overpowered stats and effects on a single weapon, especially with such a low level requirement," he muttered to himself, shaking his head in awe. It was a treasure that defiedmon sense, a relic of unparalleled power that had fallen into their hands.


    Shaking off his shock, Jayce''s mind started to race with possibilities. He contemted the potential wielders of such a formidable artifact. Given its focus on intelligence and spellcasting, the staff seemed tailor-made for a mage. But which one? Jayce mentally scanned the members of his party, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses.


    Lianna, the healer and support mage, came to mind first. While the staff would certainly enhance her magical abilities, the effects of Haste and Berserker might not be fully utilized in her role. The decision to wield such a weapon would be a delicate one, considering the potential consequences of imbuing healing magic with the staff''s chaotic powers.


    The other mages, who specialized in elemental magic, were stronger contenders. The increased affinity to elements could significantly amplify their destructive spells, and the staff''s other effects mightplement their offensive strategies. Jayce weighed the pros and cons of each candidate, envisioning the staff in their hands.


    Then his thoughts settled on Jackie, Colin''s wife and the Ice mage of the group. Jayce''s memories of her performance in battle were vivid ¨C her quick and urate casting had been a deciding factor in their fight against the Goblins and Goblin Shaman afterwards. Not to mention her unflinching demeanor in the face of gruesome scenes. The staff''s potential to bolster her icy magic and provide additional tactical advantages seemed like a perfect match.


    Decision made, Jayce stowed the Goblin Staff carefully, resolving to entrust it to Jackie before their next outing. But for now, their immediate needs called for sustenance. With a determined focus, Jayce set to work in the kitchen, conjuring a hearty Beef Stew that would invigorate the tired and wounded with its +2 Vitality and +1 Strength bonuses.


    Thanks for reading!


    Hope you''re enjoying the story so far. Please send your power stones or leave a review, even ament. I respond to them all :)


    leeroycgna

 Chapter 36 Plans

    36 ns


    With their hearty meal finished, the members of the party felt a renewed sense of energy coursing through their veins. Bowls were set aside, and Jayce, standing tall in the makeshift shelter''s main hall, headed to the center of the room. The gazes of admiration and respect from the other inhabitants made him blush slightly, but he knew he had to address them formally.


    Clearing his throat, Jayce began to recount the events of their expedition, not delving into unnecessary details but giving a sinct overview. He spoke of Colin''s heroic stand against five goblins, holding the back line and preventing the party from being overrun. The crowd''s eyes turned to Colin, a mixture of surprise and respect evident in their expressions.


    "Our stalwart Guardian, Colin, showed exceptional courage and skill, holding the line against five goblins to ensure our safety," Jayce dered, nodding in Colin''s direction.


    The narrative continued as Jayce shared how the party had sessfully taken down the Goblin Shaman, the boss monster that had threatened them. Anticipation hung in the air as Jayce pulled out the Goblin Staff, the ominous and potent aura emanating from it casting a momentary unease over the room.


    "This, my friends, is an epic item drop," Jayce exined, his voice carrying a mixture of awe and reverence. "An artifact of immense power and rarity, a testament to the strength and bravery of our party."


    He went on to describe the staff''s effects and value, detailing the ways it could potentially benefit their survival. Then, his voice turning more solemn, he revealed his decision.


    "I have decided to entrust this staff to someone who has already proven herself in the heat of battle," Jayce announced, his gaze shifting to Jackie. "Jackie, our skilled Ice mage, you have disyed exceptional prowess andposure. This staff, I believe, will find its true potential in your hands."


    Jackie''s eyes widened in shock, and she stammered, "I-I can''t ept such a gift, Jayce..."


    Before she could finish, Colin''s hand gently rested on her shoulder, and his eyes met Jayce''s with a serious intensity. "Are you sure about this?" Colin asked, the weight of his words hanging in the air.


    Jayce met Colin''s gaze unwaveringly and nodded, a silent understanding passing between them. With a determined nod, he handed the Goblin Staff to Jackie, who epted it with a mix of astonishment and gratitude.


    Addressing the gathered inhabitants, Jayce''s voice rang out with conviction, "We are more than individuals; we are a faction, a united force striving for survival. Each of us has a role to y, and as one gains strength, so does our faction. We stand together, leaving no one behind. Our strength lies in our unity, and we will face the challenges of this new world as a united front."


    The room erupted in cheers, an outpouring of agreement and determination. The speech had resonated deeply, igniting a fervor of unity and resolve among the inhabitants. Jayce smiled, happy with how his speech was received.


    Amid the fervent cheers and renewed sense of purpose, Jayce took a moment to let the enthusiasm settle before addressing the group once more. Standing at the forefront of the main hall, he projected a sense of authority and determination as he outlined his ns for the future.


    "We are only at the beginning of the new world. But we are not alone," Jayce''s voice resonated through the room. "We are a faction, bound together for no other reason but survival for all. Together, we will face the challenges ahead, and we will emerge stronger than ever before."


    Heid out a detailed strategy, exining how they would begin alternating teams for scouting and leveling. Himself, Lianna, Colin, and Jackie would remain constants, ensuring stability and experience among the teams. Team A had already scouted today; Team B would venture out tomorrow, followed by Team C the next day. Their goal was simple yet vital: to raise everyone''s level to at least 10 in theing weeks while gathering supplies and searching for survivors.


    "In time, when everyone is strong enough," Jayce continued, his gaze sweeping across the assembled faces, "you will have the opportunity to venture out in your own groups, each teamposition approved by me. We will grow and adapt together, our strength united."


    With his n shared, Jayce urged everyone to rest, recover, and prepare for the challenges thaty ahead. As the crowd began to disperse, he left the main area and retreated to his resting quarters. Lianna followed him, her presence bothforting and intriguing.


    Seated across from him, Lianna engaged him in conversation, her deep emerald eyes locking onto his gaze. Jayce felt a flutter of nervousness under her intense scrutiny, inwardly remarking on her striking beauty. Her features were delicate yet strong, a stark contrast to the figure he had first met in the alleyway, her eyes harboring a mixture of curiosity and something he couldn''t quite ce.


    Lianna''s questions were direct, probing deeper than mere curiosity. "Jayce, I couldn''t help but notice yourposure during the fight with the Goblin Shaman. How did you remain so collected? And your knowledge of monsters, it''s as if you''ve encountered them before. What are your goals, and how do you know so much?"


    She rattled off rapid fire questions one after another, causing Jayce''s mind to spin. He had forgotten how much teenagers liked to talk, before suddenly remembering that he was now, in fact, also a teenager.


    For a brief moment, Jayce''s mind raced as he tried to find the right words. He couldn''t reveal the truth of his situation; it was tooplicated and unsettling. Instead, he focused on a usible exnation, one that could ount for his knowledge andposure.


    A smile touched his lips, his eyes meeting Lianna''s as he began to speak. "I spent countless hours immersed in Cataclysm: World''s End. I studied the monsters, their behaviors, their weaknesses. It became second nature to me. As forposure, it''s about training your mind to stay focused, to control the chaos around you. Every battle is a dance of strategy, instinct and mostly courage."


    Lianna nodded thoughtfully, seemingly satisfied with his response. "You make it sound so simple," she said with a soft chuckle. "I admire your strength and dedication, Jayce."


    Jayce felt a warmth spread throughout him at these words, eliciting an embarrassed smile. He cleared his throat slightly, and spoke up "As for my goals," He paused, his eyes looking around the room to dodge her deep gaze. "I just want everyone to be strong enough to survive." his voice trailing off.


    Silence filled the room after these words, however it wasn''t awkward. Lianna nodded after a while, her thoughts unknown, "Mmm, then let''s get stronger together." she said, shing a brilliant smile which lit up her cute features and stunning Jayce.


    His pupils dted, seeing the spectacr sight in front of him and all thoughts that were present in his brain disappeared, left with only her. It was then that Jayce saw Colin''s massive frame ducking to enter the doorway behind Lianna.


    As he raised his head, his mouth opened, however no sounds came out and he froze in ce, witnessing the scene before him. In the next moment, a knowing smile crept onto his face and he sent a yful wink and a thumbs up towards Jayce before turning tail and dashing back through the door.


    Jayce sighed, once again that bastard had misunderstood.

 Chapter 37 Two Weeks

    37 Two Weeks


    Two weeks had passed since that fateful battle with the Goblin Shaman, and the makeshift shelter had transformed into a bustling hub of activity. Jayce''s leadership had proven its worth as the teams rotated through their scouting and leveling exercises. The inhabitants of the shelter had be a well-oiled machine, honing their skills, gathering supplies, and fortifying their bond.


    Jayce led each team himself, navigating the surroundings with a deftness born of both experience and preparation. The streets and alleys were not as treacherous as before due to their increased strength, though caution remained their constantpanion. Fortunately, there had been no encounters with any enemies as formidable as the Goblin Shaman. Instead, they mostly encountered small groups of Goblins, easily dispatched by the now battle-hardened teams.


    The fruits of theirbor were evident. All three teams had not only reached level 10, but they had surpassed it. The core members, including Jayce, Colin, Jackie, and Lianna, had grown even more formidable, each reaching level 15 and unlocking new skills.


    Lianna''s new skill, Blessing of Attack, was a boon to the team''s offensive capabilities. With a gesture and a whispered incantation, she could bestow a 20% increase in attack power upon herrades for a brief yet crucial 10-minute window. Her support skills had taken on a more decisive role, turning the tide of battles in their favor.


    Jackie had flourished remarkably with the Goblin Staff in her hands. The staff, pulsating with energy and a faint aura of fear, enhanced her already potent magical abilities. The Elemental Affinity of the staff allowed her to wield her ice element with greater proficiency, adding ayer of versatility to her arsenal. The acquisition of the Hailstorm skill had taken her destructive potential to new heights, allowing her to wreak havoc among the enemy ranks.


    Colin, their Divine Shield, had received the Fortification skill. With a determined stance and the activation of the skill, he could bolster his defenses by 20%, turning himself into an imprable wall that the enemy struggled to breach. His steadfast demeanor and unparalleled dedication provided a sense of security to the entire party.


    As for Jayce, he acquired the skill, Nimble Fingers, which had proven more valuable than he initially thought. Originally, he was rather upset at the skill, once again being left without abat ability, he would be relegated to the kitchen as well as tactician.


    However, the control and dexterity he could now demonstrate with his fingers had not only benefited him in the kitchen, but also while wielding his inbat. This skill allowed him to control the Sashimi knife with precision, deftly maneuvering the de unlike he had ever done before.


    During one of their excursions above ground, the party had stumbled upon an unexpected encounter. Calls for help echoed from a higher floor, catching their attention. Drawn in by the cries for help, they found themselves facing arge group of relentless goblins, their hunger for blood undeterred. The battle was fierce, but the party''s increased strength and coordination prevailed, allowing them to ovee the threat.


    Following the skirmish, Jayce approached the distressed family cautiously. Their faces were etched with exhaustion and malnutrition, proof of the hardships they had endured. The father, who donned a kite shield, spoke of their week-long ordeal of confinement, trapped within the walls of their apartment by the ever-present menace of monsters. Their relief at being discovered was palpable, and Jayce made the decision to extend a helping hand.


    The family consisted of the mother, a Fire Mage, the father a Guardian, and their 12-year-old daughter, who was an Ice Mage. The warmth of their gratitude was only matched by thepassion of the shelter''s inhabitants, who weed them with open arms. As they settled into their newfound home, the family''s integration was swift, guided by themon bonds of survival and shared purpose.


    The young swordsman Daniel was the most surprised, as he recognized the young girl Allie. They had been ssmates before the world turned upside down, and their reunion added a sense of familiarity to the shelter''s growingmunity. Their group expanded with this newfound kinship, as the three neers seamlessly blended into the fabric of their faction.


    With the addition of these new members, Jayce had to reorganize the teams once more. The bnce of power had shifted, as another skilled Guardian joined their ranks. Each team now had its own Guardian, a solid front line to bear the brunt of enemy attacks. Theirposition had be more versatile and well-rounded, making them even better equipped to face the challenges thaty ahead.


    In the midst of their training and growth, Jayce couldn''t help but notice the camaraderie that had blossomed among the inhabitants of the shelter. Friendships had formed, bonds had been forged, and their shared experiences in the face of danger had solidified their unity. They were no longer just individuals fighting for survival. They were¡­ Hell''s Kitchen.


    Jayce stood in the kitchen, waiting for his potatoes to boil. He grabbed a tea towel from the bench and wiped the sweat on his brow, a small smile forming on his face. His clear blue eyes were like deep shimmeringkes, reflecting the world around him with a light of intelligence and wisdom beyond his years.


    His scrawny and almost malnourished frame had disappeared, reced by a wiry frame, with coiling muscles hidden beneath his skin. He reached up to his chest, unbuttoning his chef jacket slightly to cool down before hearing a muffled squeal in the direction of the door.


    He was startled for a moment, before rolling his eyes with a tinge of exasperation. With practiced movements, he retrieved some snacks from his inventory and made his way to the door, spotting a few women hiding on the other side.


    They were the usual suspects that seemed to always be hanging around the kitchen waiting for a snack.


    Jayce poked his head out, seeing the trio of Lianna, Kylie and Shae once again. He held out his hand which held a few pieces of perfectly rolled sushi and smiled, "Here you all go, dinner isn''t far off now."


    After taking their food dejectedly, the trio retreated. They were forced to hide after someone had given away their position once again. Shae and Kylie drew their eyes to Lianna, annoyance burning in their gaze. Everytime they would try to sneak looks at the Leader, she would always squeak or make a noise subconsciously, alerting him to their presence.


    Lianna shrunk her head into her shoulders in embarrassment, screaming internally that it wasn''t her fault. However, she inwardly smiled, remembering the soft and friendly smile Jayce threw her way.


    Thanks for reading!


    leeroycgna


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