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4.58% Zenith Online: Rebirth of the Strongest Player / Chapter 29: Hidden Quest, Misassumption

Chapter 29: Hidden Quest, Misassumption

Kieran's excitement came from the fact that Hidden Quests required a series of specific events to trigger them, and they existed in a limited amount. Within Gena Village, Scar's Hidden Quest was the only one present. 

After dealing with his excitement, Kieran rubbed his chin and feigned as if he had to consider its information. "It's a Warrior's specialized path, admittedly its strongest in terms of battle power."

"Good," Scar nodded with a satisfied gleam in his eye. However, he didn't appear completely content. He crossed his arms while looking at Kieran with an imperious gaze. "What defines a Berserker?"

'What defines a Berserker,' Kieran repeated mentally. 

Instead of responding, Kieran closed his eyes with a faint smile. 

A Berserker was something that pretty much defined a large portion of Kieran's life. How could he not understand what defined a Berserker? 

Scar's question made Kieran bask in the glory of all his feats as he relished in his memories. Inside those memories, Kieran wielded a greatsword of unimaginable power and wore a set of magnificent heavy armor. 

Thinking about these memories made Kieran desire to reclaim that power, but part of him understood that he was preparing himself to accept an even greater power. 

The feats of that past life were something that could serve as a stencil for his future, but it was inferior to Kieran's current desire.

When Kieran opened his eyes, they flashed with profound wisdom contrary to his current youthful appearance. 

"A Berserker is defined by its ability to persist under the onslaught of many perils. Amidst that peril, they awaken the strength to forcibly crush their opposition and emerge victorious."

Listening to Kieran's response, genuine shock appeared on Scar's face, soon replaced by boundless pride. "What an excellent answer. I didn't expect you to arrive at such a fitting description."

However, based on Scar's smirk, it was clear he had more to say. "Now, what if I tell you there is another Berserker that transcends the usual human rendition of a Berserker?"

"Does such a Berserker exist?" Kieran asked while feigning ignorance as best as he could. 

Of course, he was aware of such a Berserker! Otherwise, he wouldn't have gone through the trouble of trying to befriend Scar.

"Undoubtedly. I am living proof of such a character," Scar replied.

The entire building suddenly began rumbling after Scar mentioned his identity as such a Berserker. A dense crimson aura with tinges of gray and black hues permeated the atmosphere.

The armor covering Scar's body cracked and fell apart, revealing a body with a few menacing markings. 

However, Scar's monstrous physique was only apparent for a moment before being covered by a set of tribal armor, except instead of leather, it was made of metallic beast hide.

Following this change, Kieran glimpsed Scar's true information. 

「Lv.501 Scar, The Bloody Hero (Mythical Hero)

Class: Blood Fiend (True Berserker)

Health: ??? (100%)

Affiliations: «War Deity Council» «Hero's Sanctuary» 」

Despite knowing Scar's identity and his link to a few world powers, Kieran's jaw dropped, exasperated by what he saw. 

'He's this strong at this stage in the game? A Level above 500 means that he can pretty much venture anywhere within the world without being stifled,' Kieran thought.

Scar was one of the leading forces in a World Quest Kieran participated in while part of the Golden Brigade. At that time, Scar's level had surpassed 600, but Zenith Online had also been online for almost four years.

'An absolute monster. The higher one's level becomes, the more difficult it is to advance. If he gained more than 100 levels within a span of 4 years, his growth potential must be absurd,' Kieran thought.

Aside from Scar's level, Kieran paid close attention to his categorization. A Mythical Hero. It was a special state, which was more renowned than normal Mythic NPCs. 

Furthermore, only seven such people bore this ranking, but there was a special reason behind the matter. These seven people existed to give seven players a chance to obtain a unique legacy.

Of course, these seven legacies weren't omnipotent alone. There was more to why those seven classes, in particular, existed.

'A True Berserker. That's exactly what I want—to become the inheritor of a Mythical Hero,' Kieran inwardly thought.

After changing back into his original form, Scar circled around Kieran with an unusual expression. "As I told you before, my position here is temporary. My only purpose for coming here is to choose my potential inheritor. I needed an untainted specimen, who had not taken any other path. That way, the mantle of a True Berserker won't be sullied."

Scar gradually stopped walking and folded his arms before his chest. "Tell me, are you interested in accepting my request?" After posing this question, Scar reined in his powerful presence until it was all confined to his body.

"Without a doubt. I'm more than willing to follow this path," Kieran answered solemnly, but he couldn't hide his excitement well enough.

This was a Hidden Class that existed at the pinnacle of natural rankings. In terms of Hidden Class, it was separated into Rare, Unique, Epic, Legendary, and Mythic. 

Of course, the higher the Hidden Class, the more difficult its promotion quest would be. Likewise, the rewards would be much better compared to the weaker classes.

Scar leaned forward ever so slightly and smiled, revealing a few incredibly sharp teeth. His canines were similar to that of a ferocious wolf! "If what you say is true, then you'll have to be evaluated."

Kieran's eyebrow rose in shock because he had yet to reach Lv.20. How could he accept a class promotion quest without achieving the minimum level requirement?

Could Scar really circumvent the rules like this? If so, Kieran felt Scar wielded too much power. Of course, when the true nature of Scar's "evaluation" was revealed, Kieran's expression darkened.

'Damn! I'm being scammed, I tell you!' Kieran thought with a disgruntled frown.

Ding!

〈System: Do you wish to accept the Hidden Quest «The Berserk Path's Original Wielder»? [ Y | N ]〉

「 The Berserk Path's Original Wielder (Hidden Quest)

Quest Rank: SSS

Recommended Party Size: 1

Recommended Party Level: 18

Objectives: Although Scar's identity as the Mythical Hero of Blood has brought the renown of the Berserk Path to its current pinnacle throughout the kingdom and empires of the world, he is not the originator of this path. Therefore, it is not his sole right to bestow the famed path upon you. While his view of you is above the rest, Scar requires his master's blessing to bestow you with this ancient mantle. Before the presence of the crimson glow, all potential will be laid bare!

- Meet with the original wielder. 0/1

- Enter the «Wildes». 0/1

- Gain the recognition of Scar's master. 0/1

- Return the letter to Scar without reading its contents. 0/1

Rewards:

- «True Berserker» Promotion Quest Unlocked

- «Honored» Favorability with Scar

- Exclusive Teacher (Scar)

- «Zero Loss of Potential» [Trait]

- 50,000 Experience

Failure Penalty:

- Loss of «True Berserker» Questline

- Reverted to a standard «Berserker» Promotion Questline

- Scar's Favorability will be locked at Neutral (0).

*Special Note: The opportunity outweighs the medal of growing stronger quickly. 」

〈Warning: If the original wielder isn't met within one natural week, this quest will expire and be marked as failed.〉

Unless stated explicitly, skill cooldowns, quest timers, and other duration-related events operate on Zenith Online's flow of time. Anything preceded by "natural" meant it operated on Earth's time.

〈Warning: This quest automatically fails if you fail to gain the master's recognition.〉

〈Warning: Failing this quest will automatically set the Berserker Class as your class promotion.〉

'A shadowy master? I should have expected as much. But my question is… how strong is Scar's master if Scar is already such a fearsome character? I can't help but anticipate this meeting.' Kieran thought to himself.

Although excited about the potential meeting, Kieran felt other emotions. For example, he wondered about the quest's location.

The Wildes held a second name for anyone beneath Lv.100—the Forbidden Expanse. Not only was the Wildes home to many incredibly powerful enemies, but there were also many wild races inhabiting that place.

The Wildes was the size of a continent in and of itself, but it bordered the four continents, which are:

The North Continent: Nelorias. 

The South Continent: Slazoya. 

The Western Continent: Waikrune. 

The Eastern Continent: Enira.

Despite the quest's setting, Kieran naturally chose to accept the quest. The potential dangers didn't deflate his confidence. On the contrary, the dangers made it far more exhilarating in Kieran's opinion.

Aside from the excitement of the quest, Kieran was also drawn in by the quest rewards, specifically the trait, which was extremely difficult to come by.

'I wonder how effective this trait's effects are, seeing as Zero Loss of Potential is something I've never come in contact with.'


CREATORS' THOUGHTS
ApexPen ApexPen

Make sure to point out any spelling errors, grammar errors, or numbers/information that wasn't properly updated so I can immediately rectify those issues.

Thank you, guys!

P.S: A LOT of game terminology will appear in the novel, because well, I'm a gamer. :shrug:

Until May 15th:

Release Rate: 9 ch/week

50 Power Stones = +1 Ch

100 Power Stones = +2 Ch

250 Power Stones = +3 Ch

500 Powers Stones = +5 Ch

Chapter 30: Deep Exhaustion

Although there was no discernible information regarding the Zero Loss of Potential trait, its name stood out to Kieran.

Most traits followed a single-name basis and typically referred to something special about an individual that was especially heightened. 

However, obtaining a trait was difficult.

One way to obtain it was by clearing Hidden Quests, but one could also awaken it through physical actions. 

'It isn't enough to draw a conclusion from, but I suspect this trait will be worthwhile given the quest's nature, rarity, and difficulty,' Kieran thought.

As Kieran's first SSS Rank Quest upon returning, Kieran held conflicted feelings toward the quest, but it was an inevitable situation.

'I have a week, so I'm not worried about rushing to the Wildes. I'll have to prepare first.'

Aside from this, Kieran returned to guessing the identity of Scar's master. He considered it to be someone on par with a god, but Kieran felt that assumption was foolish.

While his understanding of Zenith Online's lore wasn't the best, he was certain about one fact. Beings deemed to be gods couldn't interfere in this part of the realm. 

'If I get the chance, exploring more of Zenith Online's ancient lore is on my to-do list,' Kieran decided. 

This current world has many names.

Its original name—Xenith, and its epithets: The Transient Realm, The Lesser Boundary—but it was all synonymous with the lowest caliber of power.

Suddenly, Scar raised his hand towards Kieran, "When you meet the master, I advise you to showcase your strongest traits. Without the master's blessing, your fate with the Berserk Path will perish."

"You can take me at my word—I will be at my best when I meet the master. A lot is on the line, so failure isn't an option for me," Kieran answered. 

Due to Kieran's awakened desires, he had no intention of yielding this opportunity to anyone else. It was his, and he would claim it.

"Good. Just remember—my advice to you is do not allow yourself to falter. You'll understand what I mean once you meet the master. Additionally, I won't remain here for long. There are other matters I must take care of. If you fail, I won't be here when you return. However, should you succeed, I'll remain here until you accomplish what I seek of you. Do you understand?" Scar said in a tone that didn't allow one to question him.

Therefore, Kieran nodded with a solemn expression.

"Excellent. You've grown stronger but do not be complacent. It's always easiest in the beginning," Scar said. Afterward, he took a seat and waved his hand slightly. "Before you do anything, attack me. Let me test your progress with those skills I've imparted unto you."

Kieran's eyebrows knitted slightly. 

His current condition wasn't the best. After triggering a portion of his H-COS, Kieran's head continued to buzz like a swarm of bees orbiting his head. However, Kieran understood that he was in no position to disobey Scar's humble request. 

After taking a few steps back, Kieran activated Warrior's Aura, which drew Scar's pleased nod. 

'Not bad. His aura is thickening,' Scar inwardly noted.

A second later, Kieran dashed toward Scar while a dense savage aura coated his Novice Greatsword.

"Savage Break!"

Bang!

The outcome of this action made Kieran's expression blanche further.

«Immune»

«Reflect»

-300

'Motherfucker!' Kieran screamed out internally.

Kieran was blown back by the aftermath as a terrible pain shot through his sword-wielding arm. Attacking Scar was akin to ramming into a thick slab of reinforced steel.

Conversely, Scar smiled. "Now, show me your Force Slash. Don't cower now."

Kieran's eyes narrowed in response. He couldn't tell if this man wanted to kill him passively. If Force Slash deflected the same amount of damage, then he would undoubtedly kill himself.

As a precaution, to hopefully avoid such a situation, Kieran activated Hardened Skin and calmed himself.

A gale of wind surfaced around Kieran's blade as he roared and released a Force Slash fueled by every ounce of his STR.

Boom!

«Immune»

Rather than allowing the force to ricochet from his body, Scar extended his left hand and opened it. The pressure was frozen and crushed once Scar indifferently closed his hand, dissipating into nothing. 

"Your progress is commendable. Your proficiency with these skills is deepening, but you have a long way to go."

In return, Scar rubbed his chin while pondering his own evaluation. "It's not bad. Both of the attack skills appear to be growing well. As for the aura, it's becoming powerful. But, I'm more impressed by your willingness to unleash an attack that would potentially end yourself. At least you present a sliver of resolve."

"I see. What's your verdict, then? Am I ready to meet the master in my current state?" Kieran questioned breathlessly. His desire to log out intensified the longer he remained standing.

"No comment thus far. But, don't let the opportunity pass you by. Prepare well," Scar said.

"Mm," Kieran acknowledged Scar's answer and left the Warrior Hall with a wave of his hand.

After he left, however, Scar's expression changed, becoming difficult to read.

"I didn't bring it up with him, but I smelt that woman on him. To think Agatha would target the same boy as me. What was she thinking?! She must be partly responsible for his rapid growth. Unfortunately for her, I doubt he has the thirst for knowledge that she seeks," Scar muttered.

His understanding of the situation wasn't correct because Kieran wasn't as one-sided as Scar believed. There was more to him than what met the eye.

If there wasn't, Kieran wouldn't have felt pain in his heart after witnessing Agatha's transformed condition.

Outside the Warrior Hall…

Kieran looked towards the shabby, run-down inns available in Gena Village and approached one of them. Once inside, Kieran's view was filled with many wooden tables and stools, followed by a large wooden desk towards the back.

A lovely woman with a headwrap and clean but worn-out rags smiled at Kieran when he entered. "Hello, welcome to the Humble Inn. How may I help you?"

"May I have a basic room, please," Kieran requested.

Many rooms were available, but the most basic one would suffice for Kieran. He didn't need the meager EXP modifier that was granted by resting in a more luxurious inn room. 

He simply needed a place to log out and gain the temporary passive attained by relaxing in a good sleeping environment for a set amount of time.

"That'll be 25 Copper Coins," the innkeeper replied.

Kieran passed her the coins without any hassle. This cost was the equivalent of buying 5 Beginner Mana Potions, but it was worth it.

After entering his room, Kieran sent a call request to Altair, who answered very shortly after.

"Yo?" Altair nodded, looking at Kieran somewhat skeptically. He didn't expect Kieran to reach out to him so soon. Right after, he frowned when he noticed Kieran was lying down.

"Question. How much longer will you be online?"

"Probably for a few more hours. Maybe until midnight," Altair answered.

"I see. Well, I have something for you. It should help you level up. But, if I do this, you have to promise me that you'll owe me a favor or two," Kieran said. His offer intrigued Altair because it sounded as if Kieran had something extremely beneficial to him.

"That depends. What are we talking about here?"

"Nothing special," Kieran shrugged. "If I need additional people to run a dungeon with or other special events, I'd like it if you were available."

"If it's anything like today, then sure. I'm down to clear difficult dungeons and earn bragging rights," Altair agreed.

"Great. Check your mail," Kieran answered with a cryptic grin.

Baffled screams sounded on the other side of the call once Altair checked his mail. "You slick little piece of shit! This is how you accomplished that insane leveling speed? Do you know how much this is worth? And you're giving it to me?!"

"I'm aware. And no. I'm not giving it to you. The item is leased, and I'll return it to my inventory once the leasing duration ends," Kieran answered.

As Kieran was familiar with Zenith Online, he knew all the little tricks to secure his items without any risk. 

Altair was left baffled and struggled to mutter a sentence. Kieran's luck had thoroughly astonished him. Not only did he obtain the Warrior's Unique Package, but he possessed a ridiculous item for characters Lv.20 and under.

The helmet on Kieran's head powered down and emitted faint noises before Kieran could take it off. 

When he did, Kieran slumped in bed powerlessly, placing the VR Helmet on the nightstand beside his bed. Due to how tired he was, Kieran ignored everything related to Zenith Online and simply went to sleep.

He had no idea that his in-game name, Aatrox, had become an overnight sensation due to his actions.


CREATORS' THOUGHTS
ApexPen ApexPen

Make sure to point out any spelling errors, grammar errors, or numbers/information that wasn't properly updated so I can immediately rectify those issues.

Thank you, guys!

P.S: A LOT of game terminology will appear in the novel, because well, I'm a gamer. :shrug:

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