Quest to Survive E-Book

Aurora Nightshade

• Herausgeber: Aurora Nightshade
• Kategorie: Fantasy und Science-Fiction
• Sprache: Englisch

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023

Beschreibung

In a virtual realm where multiple apocalyptic scenarios converge, Emma emerges as a skilled and determined survivor. The game setting presents her with distinct challenges: heat wave, an economic recession, a deserted island, AI domination, a deadly virus outbreak, asteroid impacts, and superpower apocalypses—all separate and immersive.

Fueled by resilience, Emma thrives in this extraordinary game world. Her prowess catches the eye of Ethan, a fellow survivor, equally adept at navigating the virtual chaos. Together, they form an unbreakable alliance and discover a love that defies the odds. Journey with Emma and Ethan through the perilous landscapes of this apocalypse game.
Witness their extraordinary bond as they prove that love and survival can triumph, even within the confines of a virtual realm, where everything is uncertain.

"Quest to Survive" is an electrifying tale of strength, courage, and the power of human connection—challenging what it truly means to survive and find love in the midst of a gaming apocalypse.

Leseprobe

Aurora Nightshade

Quest to Survive

Copyright © 2023 by Aurora Nightshade

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise without written permission from the publisher. It is illegal to copy this book, post it to a website, or distribute it by any other means without permission.

This novel is entirely a work of fiction. The names, characters and incidents portrayed in it are the work of the author's imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or localities is entirely coincidental.

First edition

This book was professionally typeset on Reedsy Find out more at reedsy.com

Contents

Abstract

1. Chapter 1 Entering the Game

2. Chapter 2 Extra Skill

3. Chapter 3 A Reliable Partner

4. Chapter 4 Forming an Alliance

5. Chapter 5 The Underground Tunnel

6. Chapter 6 Heat Wave Coming to an End

7. Chapter 7 The Economic Recession Apocalypse

8. Chapter 8 Preparing for the Bubble to Burst

9. Chapter 9 Success and Failure

10. Chapter 10 Rebuild the Business

11. Chapter 11 A Sudden Shock

12. Chapter 12 End of Economic Apocalypse

13. Chapter 13 Surviving on a Deserted Island

14. Chapter 14 A Chaotic Team

15. Chapter 15 Reuniting with Ethan

16. Chapter 16 Pirates Landing

17. Chapter 17 Ending of the Deserted Island Apocalypse

18. Chapter 18 A Secret Message

19. Chapter 19 Choosing Sides

20. Chapter 20 Turius

21. Chapter 21 The Elimination

22. Chapter 22 Counterattack

23. Chapter 23 Order to Kill

24. Chapter 24 Ending of AI Apocalypse

25. Chapter 25 The Biological Apocalypse

26. Chapter 26 Unusual Symptoms

27. Chapter 27 Outbreak

28. Chapter 28 Stepping Up

29. Chapter 29 Hope

30. Chapter 30 Ending of Biological Apocalypse

31. Chapter 31 The Asteroid Impact Apocalypse

32. Chapter 32 The Second Asteroid

33. Chapter 33 Reunion

34. Chapter 34 Shocking Collision

35. Chapter 35 Becoming the Finalists

36. Chapter 36 The Superpower Apocalypse

37. Chapter 37 Superpowers Revealed

38. Chapter 38 Captured

39. Chapter 39 Reuniting with Ethan

40. Chapter 40 The Sixth Invisible Survivor

41. Chapter 41 Hera and Ignatius

42. Chapter 42 The Gorgeous Crystal

43. Chapter 43 The Final Battle

44. Chapter 44 The True Final Battle

45. Chapter 45 The Ultimate Prize

Abstract

In a virtual realm where multiple apocalyptic scenarios converge, Emma emerges as a skilled and determined survivor. The game setting presents her with distinct challenges: heat wave, an economic recession, a deserted island, AI domination, a deadly virus outbreak, asteroid impacts, and superpower apocalypses—all separate and immersive.

Fueled by resilience, Emma thrives in this extraordinary game world. Her prowess catches the eye of Ethan, a fellow survivor, equally adept at navigating the virtual chaos. Together, they form an unbreakable alliance and discover a love that defies the odds. Journey with Emma and Ethan through the perilous landscapes of this apocalypse game.

Witness their extraordinary bond as they prove that love and survival can triumph, even within the confines of a virtual realm, where everything is uncertain.

“Quest to Survive” is an electrifying tale of strength, courage, and the power of human connection—challenging what it truly means to survive and find love in the midst of a gaming apocalypse.

1

Chapter 1 Entering the Game

1st August marked the launch of Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey.

“Prepare to embark on the most immersive and heart-pounding experience of your life with the Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey! Step into a virtual world where survival is the ultimate test of skill and wit. Master your unique abilities, from unparalleled speed and agility to ingenious resourcefulness, as you navigate through a post-apocalyptic city filled with peril and adventure.

Will you rise to the challenge and outsmart your opponents to claim the coveted title of the ultimate survivor? Join us for the adventure of a lifetime, where every decision matters, and only the strongest, cleverest, and most resilient will emerge victorious. The Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey awaits you!”

This advertisement was well known to most active gamers, and most had been eagerly waiting for more than a year to join the game.

Emma gazed at the sleek, black visor in her hands, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and trepidation. This was it—the moment she had been waiting for. The Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey, a game rumored to be the most immersive and challenging experience ever created, was about to become her reality.

The advertisement had promised an unprecedented level of realism, with distinct apocalyptic scenarios, each demanding unique survival skills. Little did she know that this game would take her on a journey beyond her wildest imagination.

Taking a deep breath, Emma slipped the visor over her eyes, and in an instant, the world around her vanished. The virtual world embraced her like a second skin, and as her surroundings came into focus, she realized that the heat wave scenario had already begun.

The sun blazed fiercely overhead, casting a relentless wave of heat upon the landscape. The streets shimmered with the intensity of the virtual heat, and Emma could almost feel the beads of sweat forming on her brow. She wiped her forehead instinctively, momentarily forgetting that it was all a simulation.

“This is incredible,” she muttered to herself, glancing around in awe. The level of detail was astounding; she could even feel the virtual breeze against her skin. Emma was eager to test her abilities in this strange new world.

As she explored the hotter-than-usual streets, she soon realized that her physical abilities were mirrored in the game. Her agility, strength, and reflexes were all as sharp as they were in real life. It was as if she had been transported into an alternate dimension, her own body transformed into a digital avatar.

Emma couldn’t help but notice other individuals who seemed to be experiencing the same sense of amazement and wonder as she did. Like her, they moved with an uncanny familiarity, their physical prowess mirroring their real-life abilities. However, amidst the bustling crowd of the virtual city, they stood out like shining beacons.

Their behavior was marked by a sense of unfamiliarity to the virtual world, as if they were still getting used to their digital bodies. Some of them stood in one spot, their eyes wide with excitement as they marveled at the virtual world around them. Their facial expressions betrayed a mix of astonishment and delight.

In this alternate dimension, Emma found herself among a group of survivors, each adapting to their new reality and standing out from the locals in a way that was both fascinating and intriguing.

“Welcome, brave survivor, to the Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey. This is the first apocalypse - the heat wave,” the guide intoned. “This game comprises seven apocalyptic scenarios, each designed to test your skills, adaptability, and resilience. Only those who survive all the scenarios will have a chance to claim the ultimate prize.”

The realization hit Emma like a gust of scorching wind. Survivors would be eliminated in each scenario, and only the last person standing would emerge victorious. Fame and fortune awaited the winner—the ultimate incentive to outwit, outlast, and outplay her fellow players.

Just as Emma was still processing the gravity of the situation, a sudden commotion erupted in the distance. Shrill screams and loud shouts filled the air, and Emma’s eyes widened in alarm. Looking up, she saw a towering mountain in the far distance engulfed in flames, its peak shrouded in smoke. The heat apocalypse had begun, and the intense blaze served as a chilling reminder that this virtual world was as real as it could get.

Other survivors around her were equally jolted by the sight, snapping them out of any remaining disbelief. The fire may not have reached them, but they now understood the stakes clearly – they were part of a high-stakes survival game where danger lurked at every turn.

As the chaos of the heat apocalypse enveloped them, Jake’s voice rose above the din, cutting through the panic. “Listen up, everyone! We stand a better chance if we work together! I’m forming a guild, and I need people who are ready to face these challenges as a team. Strength in numbers is our advantage!”

Emma’s eyes met Jake’s, and she could see the determination in his gaze. She stepped closer, intrigued by the idea of forming an alliance. “What’s the plan?” she asked, her voice steady despite the intensity of the situation.

“We stick together, watch each other’s backs,” Jake replied, his confidence unwavering. “We’ll share resources, strategize, and navigate these apocalyptic scenarios as a unified force.”

The surrounding survivors exchanged glances, uncertain but intrigued by Jake’s proposal. “But how can we trust each other?” someone shouted from the crowd, voicing the doubts that lingered in their minds.

“We’ll have to build trust,” Jake answered, his tone resolute. “We’re all in the same boat here, and our survival depends on cooperation. I can’t promise it’ll be easy, but if we want a chance at the ultimate prize, we need each other.”

As the other survivors joined one by one, forming a circle around Jake, Emma remained silent, her mind torn between the benefits of the alliance and the instinctual wariness of trusting strangers in this deadly game.

Finally, Jake turned his gaze to Emma, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. “Girl, we need you with us. Together, we can survive this.”

Emma hesitated, the weight of the decision pressing heavily upon her. She understood the logic of joining forces, but she couldn’t easily put her trust in people she barely knew, especially in such a high-stakes situation.

“I appreciate the offer, Jake,” she replied, her voice tinged with regret. “But trust doesn’t come easily to me, especially in a game where everyone’s fighting for themselves. I can’t take that risk.”

A murmur of disappointment rippled through the gathered survivors, but Jake remained understanding. “I respect your decision, " he said, his tone tinged with disappointment but also admiration for her honesty. “If you ever change your mind, we’ll be here.”

With a nod, Emma stepped back, feeling a pang of guilt but also knowing she had to follow her instincts. As the guild began to disperse, Jake gave her one last reassuring smile before joining the others in their united front.

As she set off to explore the game further, Emma found that the game offered her a considerable number of points to help her start her journey.

She took a moment to ponder the best way to use these points. The game mirrored real life in many aspects, and digital avatars could feel hunger, thirst, and fatigue, and even perish from these conditions if left unattended. Emma knew she had to prioritize her survival and well-being.

As the memory of the blazing mountain fire flashed in her mind, Emma realized that she needed to secure a safe place to rest and recover. A tall hotel room far from the dense trees seemed like a wise choice. Fire was a common danger in the heat wave scenario, and she didn’t want to be caught unprepared. The points she had could be spent on securing this shelter, ensuring that she had a refuge from potential threats.

Emma knew she needed to make every decision count in this unforgiving virtual world. The game’s realism and the consequences of her actions kept her on high alert. As she moved through the city, she kept a sharp eye out for potential dangers, not willing to let her guard down for even a moment.

After securing the hotel room as her shelter, she used some of the remaining points to purchase several bottles of distilled water, lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the hot weather, and a durable backpack to carry her essentials. Her rationale was clear: hydration and proper clothing were crucial for surviving the scorching heat and staying agile in the game.

Returning to her hotel room, Emma turned on the television, eager to gather any information that might aid her in the game. The weather forecast indicated that the current temperature was 35°C, a sweltering heat but still manageable for now. However, the forecast warned of an impending heat wave that would drastically raise temperatures over the next few days, urging everyone to take precautions.

Switching to the news channel, Emma saw fellow citizens of the virtual city expressing their grievances about the heat. People complained of discomfort, struggling to cope with the rising temperatures. Emma listened intently, realizing that the heat wave was likely to bring more challenges and risks to her survival journey.

With the gravity of the situation sinking in, Emma knew that she couldn’t afford to underestimate any element of the game. As the city’s temperature climbed, she understood that the heat wave would be a formidable adversary. But she was prepared to face it head-on, armed with her resourcefulness, her survival gear, and the determination to become the ultimate survivor of the Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey.

2

Chapter 2 Extra Skill

The relentless sun beat down on day 2 of the heatwave apocalypse, with the temperature rising to a scorching 40 degrees Celsius. As Emma checked the weather forecast, she realized that the virtual city was becoming even more challenging to navigate. The intense heat had triggered a shift in the behavior of both local citizens and fellow survivors. People sought refuge from the blistering sun, with some braving the streets shirtless for any semblance of relief. Others retreated indoors, relying on virtual air conditioners to beat the heat.

As Emma strolled through the bustling streets, she felt a gentle buzz in her virtual pocket. Glancing down, she saw a message from the game system: “Congratulations, Survivor! You’ve managed your hunger and thirst effectively. Here are some points as a reward. Remember, this is a limited newbie offer for this apocalypse only.”

The game system further gave a brief explanation to the points system. “Points earned in this apocalypse can be preserved and carried forward to future apocalypses. Accumulating points over time can be advantageous, giving you an edge in more challenging scenarios.”

Emma understood the importance of resource management and how points played a crucial role in survival. The game reminded her that points could be preserved for future apocalypses, but warned that some special ones might freeze the points, limiting their use.

Feeling the impact of the soaring temperatures, Emma drank all the water she had purchased the day before. The relentless heat made her sweat profusely, leaving her dehydrated. Determined to replenish her supplies, she set out to buy more water. However, she encountered a long queue of people with the same idea. Not only water but also ice cream and ice were in high demand, selling out quickly due to the rising heat.

As Emma contemplated how to deal with the long queue, the game suddenly reappeared, offering survivors a crucial choice. They could now select a skill from five options, a decision that would significantly impact their future apocalypses.

“As a welcome gift to our survivors, we decided to offer some extra help.” The game system said to every survivor in the city. A pop-up box appeared in front of them, five random skills showed up. “Make sure you choose the most appropriate one, as this would be the only chance throughout all apocalypses.” The game warned.

As Emma stood there, the game system presented her with five distinct skills, each accompanied by a clear description and function. She could only choose one out of the five. These skills were not just random traits but offered specific advantages that could significantly impact her performance in the Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey:

Option 1 - Keen Tracker: Your tracking abilities will be sharpened. You can find valuable resources, spot dangers, and track others in the virtual world.

Option 2 - Ingenious Scrounger: You will become a master at finding creative solutions from random objects. You can repurpose items, craft useful tools, and improvise gear from her surroundings, making the most out of limited resources.

Option 3 - Swift Strider: You will have enhanced speed and agility. You can navigate complex terrain, climb obstacles easily, and dodge threats with remarkable dexterity.

Option 4 - Strategic Mind: Your tactical planning abilities will be enhanced. You can identify weak points in enemy defenses, and devise cunning traps.

Option 5 - Mind Reader: You will be able to read the mind of others. You can easily know what others are thinking.

Emma’s mind raced as she weighed the options before her. Each skill seemed incredibly valuable, and she couldn’t help but imagine the possibilities that came with mastering them all. However, the game’s warning echoed in her thoughts, reminding her that she could only choose one skill—one chance that would shape her entire journey in the Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey.

Keen Tracker would be immensely useful for survival in an unpredictable world. Emma could envision herself tracking valuable resources and avoiding potential dangers, gaining a strategic advantage over others. Ingenious Scrounger, on the other hand, tempted her with the promise of resourcefulness and adaptability. The ability to craft tools and make the most out of limited resources would undoubtedly serve her well.

Strategic Mind appealed to her sense of cunning and tactics. Emma imagined herself devising traps and outsmarting opponents with precision and forethought. The prospect of reading minds through Mind Reader was intriguing, offering the ability to anticipate the moves of others and stay one step ahead.

But it was Swift Strider that tugged at Emma’s heart the most. Her martial arts training had instilled in her a love for agility and speed. Choosing this skill would further enhance her natural strengths, allowing her to navigate the city with unparalleled speed, dodge threats effortlessly, and gain a decisive edge in combat.

Emma understood the significance of agility and speed in the Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey. The virtual city presented numerous challenges, and being swift on her feet could be the difference between evading danger and falling victim to it. She imagined scenarios where quick escapes or sudden maneuvers could save her life, and Swift Strider seemed like the perfect solution.

After careful consideration, Emma made her decision. She clicked on Swift Strider, feeling a surge of excitement and determination. This was the skill that resonated with her the most, aligning perfectly with her desire to be a swift and nimble force in the game.

After receiving the Swift Strider skill, Emma was eager to put it to the test. With her heart racing with excitement, she found an open space in the virtual city, free from potential threats, to try out her new ability. Taking a deep breath to steady herself, she activated the skill, and in an instant, she felt a surge of energy coursing through her.

Her movements became quicker and more fluid, and she marveled at how effortlessly she could navigate through the virtual world. With every step she took, it felt as if she were gliding across the ground. She could cover long distances in a matter of seconds, and the sense of freedom was exhilarating.

Emma experimented with her newfound speed, running in circles and zigzags, testing the limits of the skill. She felt like she was dancing with the wind, and a sense of euphoria washed over her. The virtual city blurred around her as she picked up speed, and she let out a delighted laugh.

However, as she pushed herself to go even faster, she realized that maintaining control at such high speeds required focus and precision. There were moments when she almost lost her balance, but with practice, she learned to adapt to the skill’s incredible swiftness. She discovered that it wasn’t just about running fast; it was about harnessing the skill to its full potential and using it strategically.

Feeling confident in her abilities, Emma knew that the Swift Strider skill would be her trump card in the deadly game that lay ahead. She had to be ready for anything, and the agility and speed granted by the skill would be her lifeline in surviving the Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey. With determination in her eyes, she knew that she was now equipped to face whatever challenges came her way, and she was prepared to embrace the thrilling adventure ahead.

The introduction of skills to the game opened up new possibilities. Finding water might not be as challenging as she initially thought, as there could be other survivors with abilities to create drinkable water. This realization sparked an idea in Emma’s mind—cooperation. The game seemed to encourage alliances, and combining her skills with those of others could maximize their chances of survival.

But Emma was cautious. She knew that trusting others in the Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey could be a dangerous gamble. Each survivor was allowed to choose only one skill, and alliances could mean revealing vulnerabilities. She couldn’t afford to let her guard down completely, even with the allure of partnership.

3

Chapter 3 A Reliable Partner

The virtual sun seemed merciless as it relentlessly climbed higher, pushing the temperature to an unbearable 45 degrees Celsius. The Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey had escalated the challenge, and the virtual city was now enveloped in a suffocating heatwave. The air was dry, and the once bustling streets now appeared deserted, as most survivors sought shelter from the sweltering heat.

In the distance, ominous clouds loomed, heralding an approaching calamity—another raging mountain fire that ignited at many multiple locations of the city. The news spread like wildfire, and panic gripped the remaining survivors. The virtual city’s residents were unprepared for such a devastating disaster, and those without adequate shelter faced a perilous predicament.

As the mountain fire rapidly encroached upon the outskirts of the city, it swallowed everything in its path. Buildings were reduced to charred remnants, and the scorching flames consumed anything that dared to stand in their way.

Many of the unfortunate survivors who lacked proper accommodations fell victim to the inferno, and they were eliminated once they lost their lives. Disqualified from the game, they vanished from the virtual world, their chances of victory snuffed out like the flames of the mountain fire.

Among the fortunate few, Emma had secured her rented room at the hotel in advance. However, the challenge was far from over. The mountain fire had wreaked havoc, disrupting the supply of essential resources, including water. As water stocks dwindled, long queues formed at the few remaining stores that had bottles to sell. The struggle for survival intensified, and Emma found herself in yet another critical situation.

As Emma navigated through the deserted streets, the oppressive heat bore down on her, making her aware of the urgency to find a reliable partner. The scale of the mountain fire had escalated far beyond the first day, disrupting essential resources like water, and the need for a safe accommodation with a steady water source had become paramount.

Determined to form an alliance, Emma approached several survivors, hoping to find someone with the skill or knowledge she sought.

Emma approached a group of survivors who seemed to be discussing their plans. With a smile, she introduced herself, “Hey, I’m Emma. I’ve got the Swift Strider skill that increases my speed, and I’m looking for a reliable partner. Are you guys open to forming an alliance?”

The group exchanged glances, and one of them, a guy with a determined look, replied, “Nice to meet you, Emma. We already have a full alliance, and we want someone with the Strategic Mind skill to outsmart our opponents. Sorry, but we can’t add anyone else right now.”

Not one to be discouraged, Emma moved on to another pair of survivors sitting under the shade of a crumbling building. She greeted them warmly, “Hi, I’m Emma. I have Swift Strider and I’m hoping to find someone with water-finding abilities. Are you guys interested in teaming up?”

The older woman in the pair shook her head, “Sorry, dear. We both have the Five Elements skill, and we can create water on our own. We’re not looking to join forces at the moment.”

With each rejection, Emma felt her heart sink a little. She understood that forming an alliance wasn’t as easy as she had hoped. Each survivor had their own priorities and strategies, and finding the perfect match for her skills proved to be more challenging than she anticipated. But she refused to give up.

As the sun mercilessly beat down on the virtual city, Emma’s own need for water grew more pronounced. The long queues at the stores and dwindling supplies made it increasingly difficult to buy water. She felt the first symptoms of thirst and knew that time was running out.

Amidst the sweltering chaos, Emma witnessed local citizens collapsing from heatstroke. Others swiftly called for help, showing compassion and cooperation even in the midst of the game. The sight reminded Emma of the importance of finding a reliable partner, someone who could help her navigate the challenges and keep her hydrated in this unforgiving heatwave.

Undeterred by the setbacks, Emma continued her search for a reliable partner with the water-finding skill. As she moved through the city with her Swift Strider ability, she effortlessly blended into the surroundings, making it almost impossible for others to detect her presence. This allowed her to stealthily follow the conversations of various survivor groups without being noticed.

Under the scorching sun, Emma overheard a group of survivors talking in hushed yet excited tones. “I heard there’s a hidden water source at the outskirts of the city,” one of them whispered eagerly. “We need to get there before anyone else does!”

Another survivor chimed in, “I heard it’s well-hidden and not many know about it. If we can get there, we’ll have a steady supply of water and a better chance at surviving this heatwave apocalypse.”

Emma’s heart raced with anticipation. This could be the breakthrough she needed, the chance to find a reliable partner with the water-finding skill. Without hesitation, she trusted her Swift Strider ability and discreetly followed the group, staying a few steps behind to avoid attracting attention.

As they moved through the deserted streets, the excitement in their voices grew. “I can’t believe we’re going to have a real water source!” one of them exclaimed, their hope evident in their tone. “We won’t have to struggle to find water every day anymore!”

The group quickened their pace, their eagerness pushing them forward. Emma was impressed with her Swift Strider skill, allowing her to effortlessly match their speed and remain unnoticed.

As they approached the outskirts of the city, the survivors exchanged glances, their eyes filled with anticipation. “It should be just around here,” one of them said, scanning their surroundings. “We need to be careful, though. We don’t know who else might have heard about this water source.”

Emma’s heart pounded with excitement and anxiety. This could be the turning point for her survival in the Virtual Apocalypse Odyssey. The possibility of finding a reliable water source filled her with hope and determination.

But just as the group believed they were about to find salvation, their expressions turned to shock and dismay. “It’s… it’s gone,” one of them stammered, staring at the empty space where the water source was supposed to be. “It was right here!”

Emma’s heart sank. Once again, she was met with disappointment. Someone had beaten them to the hidden water source, leaving them with empty hands and parched throats.

Despite the disappointment, Emma refused to lose hope. She returned to the city center, where most survivors congregated, and resumed her eavesdropping tactics. Eventually, she overheard another conversation, this time about another water source hidden within the heart of the city. The hope of finding a reliable partner surged within her.

With her Swift Strider skill guiding her movements, Emma discreetly trailed the group that held the vital information. Every step she took was swift and soundless, like a phantom moving through the city streets. As they reached the supposed water source, Emma’s heart pounded with anticipation.

Once again, her hopes were dashed. The water source was empty, leaving Emma perplexed and frustrated. But this time, a realization hit her like a bolt of lightning. It couldn’t be a mere coincidence that every water source she had pursued had been depleted just moments before her arrival. There had to be someone with the water-finding skill, someone who knew the locations and had extracted the water ahead of time.

Emma’s determination deepened, and she set her sights on finding this mysterious individual. If she could track down this skilled survivor, they could join forces, and their combined abilities would undoubtedly lead them to water sources before anyone else.

4

Chapter 4 Forming an Alliance

The virtual sun showed no mercy as it continued to beat down relentlessly, pushing the temperature to an unbearable 50 degrees Celsius. The heatwave had intensified, and the city’s infrastructure was starting to suffer. Power outages became more frequent, and the water supply dwindled to a mere trickle. The scorching temperature wreaked havoc, causing damages to buildings and infrastructure.

Under the sweltering conditions, more and more people succumbed to heatstroke and exhaustion. The lack of air conditioning and water made the situation dire, with the number of collapsed bodies on the streets steadily increasing.

As Emma weaved through the bustling streets, her keen eyes scanned the ground for any subtle signs. Amidst the chaotic crowd, she noticed a pattern emerging—a trail of small, delicate footprints that seemed to intentionally blend in with the myriad of others. She knelt down to get a closer look, confirming her suspicion that these footprints were different, almost elusive in nature.

Following the trail, she came across a discarded water container, hidden behind a stack of crates. Its position seemed intentional, as if someone had carefully concealed it from plain view. Emma’s heart quickened, knowing that she was on the right track. She felt a strange mix of excitement and unease, realizing that someone was indeed one step ahead of her.

Further down the path, she noticed a slight dampness on the ground, as if water had recently been spilled. She crouched down, lightly touching the moisture with her fingertips. It was barely there, but it was enough to confirm her suspicion. Someone had extracted water from this spot not too long ago.

As Emma followed the clues, they led her through narrow alleyways and winding streets, eventually guiding her to a hidden corner where the faint smell of water lingered in the air. The discarded containers became more frequent, and the footprints clearer, leading her closer to the skilled survivor she sought.

Finally, Emma spotted a tall and smart-looking man, seemingly engrossed in observing the surrounding commotion. His casual demeanor seemed out of place amidst the chaos, but she couldn’t be sure if he was the one she was after. Taking a deep breath, she approached him with caution, her heart pounding in anticipation.

As she got closer, she observed Ethan’s seemingly nonchalant expression, but a hint of apprehension flickered in his eyes. Emma’s instincts told her that she had found the person she was looking for. The evidence was undeniable—the footprints, the water containers, and now, Ethan’s reaction to her presence.

Though doubts clouded her mind, Emma knew she had to confront him.

“Did you extract the water from the sources?” Emma inquired, trying to keep her voice steady despite the rising suspicions.

Ethan hesitated for a moment before responding, “No, it wasn’t me. I arrived just like everyone else, and the water was already gone.”

Emma did not believe in him. She had seen the traces that pointed directly at Ethan. “I know you’re the one with the water-finding skill,” she declared firmly. “And I also know that you’ve been using it to your advantage.”

As Emma confronted Ethan, he tried his best to maintain a facade of innocence. “I-I assure you, I haven’t been using any water-finding skill,” he stammered, attempting to look surprised by her accusation. “I’m just as surprised as you are that the water sources were already empty.”

Emma, however, was not convinced by his act. She knew what she had seen, and the traces were clear evidence of his skill in action. “Don’t play innocent with me,” she retorted, her voice firm. “I saw the footprints, the discarded containers. It all leads back to you.”

Seeing no way to continue his pretense, Ethan’s face fell, realizing that his secret was exposed. Emma knew she had to demonstrate her own capabilities to make him understand that she was not an easy opponent to deceive. Taking a step back, she activated her game skill, Swift Strider, allowing her movements to become fluid and graceful like the wind. In an instant, she darted forward with impressive speed and agility, showcasing the prowess of her real-life martial arts expertise. The combination of her game skill and physical abilities made her a formidable force.

Ethan’s eyes widened, realizing that he had underestimated Emma’s capabilities. Admitting defeat, he finally said, “Okay, fine, you caught me. I apologize for trying to deceive you.”

He showed a hint of admiration in his voice. “I do have the water-finding skill. It is formally known as the keen tracker skill, in which I can easily locate objects and people and track movements effortlessly. But I’m not your enemy,” he added, his tone earnest. “In fact, I think we could make a strong team. Would you consider joining me?”

Though this suited Emma’s intention, she remained wary but intrigued. “Why should I trust you?” she challenged.

“Because we can help each other survive,” Ethan explained. “My keen tracker skill is more supportive than offensive, and I need someone like you, someone with combat skills, to be my partner. Together, we can ensure we find water sources before anyone else and stay one step ahead in this deadly game.”

Emma weighed her options, still unsure if she could fully trust Ethan. But the prospect of forming an alliance with someone who could lead her to water was too enticing to pass up. “Alright,” she finally agreed, extending her hand. “But remember, I’ll be watching you.”

Ethan shook her hand firmly, a glimmer of respect in his eyes. “And I’ll be watching you too,” he replied. “Let’s survive this together, partner.”

With a nod of agreement, Emma and Ethan set their differences aside and focused on their common goal—survival. As they ventured towards the city’s outskirts, Ethan put his keen tracker skill to use, scanning the surroundings for any trace of water.

“Over there,” Ethan whispered, pointing towards a distant fountain on the map. “I sense water.”

As soon as Ethan pointed towards it, Emma’s keen instincts kicked in. She activated her Swift Strider skill, and in an instant, her movements became a blur as she sprinted towards the location with astounding speed. The virtual city seemed to flash by in a blur of colors as she darted through the streets, leaving Ethan trailing behind.

Arriving at the fountain, Emma wasted no time. With precise efficiency, she swiftly filled up their containers with the life-saving water. Her quick hands moved like a well-oiled machine, and she managed to collect an ample supply of water in what felt like mere seconds. As she worked, beads of sweat trickled down her forehead, a testament to the sweltering heat.

Just as she finished collecting the water, she heard Ethan’s footsteps approaching. He arrived at the fountain, panting slightly from the effort of keeping up with her. His eyes widened in surprise and admiration as he saw the water containers filled to the brim.

“Wow, you’re faster than I thought,” Ethan exclaimed, genuinely impressed.