Global Awakening: Apocalypse Ender's Chronicle

"I don't understand. My team, the city—we were fighting, and then…"

Lucas then continued telling his story in front of Shane, Mr. Wadsworth, and Alexa…

The others were already outside working on their daily tasks. Perhaps his memory was hazy so he wasn't able to recount most of what had happened before he was taken by the fog.

Nonetheless, one was clear: this person was indeed an experienced soldier!

"It's the same for everyone, huh… That fog was really scary. Right, we haven't told you yet, but the fog has claimed many, it happened to most of us here in the shelter… Anyway, even if it's scary, it also offers sanctuary." Alexa said as she shared her story, allowing Lucas to relax a bit.

"So I'm not the first to arrive in such a manner. That's great to hear. Although my memory is blurry, I know I have many friends as well. I hope I can still meet them someday." Lucas said with a hopeful smile on his face.

Lucas's gaze then shifted from Alexa's comforting presence to the figure of Shane, the enigmatic owner of the estate.

Shane stood silently with an air of authority…

Lucas could see his handsome features and his black hair which was a stark contrast against the morning light filtering through the windows.

His eyes, deep and black, seemed to hold a well of knowledge far beyond his youthful appearance, which suggested he was in his twenties.

'This person is a Foreign Survivor that will save our land. I wonder what kind of abilities he has.' Lucas mused as he observed the man.

Shane's attire was unlike anything Lucas had seen before, even in his extensive military career. The tunic Shane wore clung to his form, moving with him like a second skin, its dark fabric blending with the shadows of the room. It was adorned with subtle patterns that seemed to shift and change, making Shane's outline blur at the edges when he moved—a garment designed for stealth and subtlety.

'It's definitely not something that my generations' technology could make… Is it from the foreign world he came from?' Lucas mused as he couldn't help but feel mesmerized by Shane's outfit.

Over the tunic, Shane wore a chest plate that shimmered with an iridescent sheen, as if woven from the exoskeleton of some fantastical creature. It looked lightweight yet impenetrable, a paradox of protection that Lucas could only marvel at. Draped over his shoulders was a cape that seemed to drink in the light, its fabric flowing like liquid night.

Shane's hands were encased in gloves that bore an intricate web of lines, each finger tipped with material that provided a grip as sure as any spider's.

A while ago, when Shane entered the room, he also noticed that the man's boots made no sound as he walked, the soles leaving no trace on the wooden floor, a perfect complement to the silent grace with which he carried himself.

At his side hung an unusually designed blade, but its handle seemed to be intended for a quick draw. He also had a hatchet with a sparkle that spoke of a razor-sharp edge.

Finally, he saw that Shane was tucked in a holster. There was a revolver, its design sleek and modern, a juxtaposition to the more mystical elements of his gear.

"Welcome to our camp, Lucas… For now, can you show me the skills you have. You should've obtained them after you heard the mysterious voice." Shane said after confirming the man's story.

"Of course!"

[ Demolition Expertise Lv10 (Max): A specialized skill that enables the soldier to handle explosives, set traps, and demolish obstacles with precision and efficiency. It grants the following benefits:

+40% effectiveness of explosive devices

+40% chance to disarm enemy traps or mines

+40% speed of setting up and detonating explosives ]

[ Firearm Mastery Lv10 (Max): A specialized skill that focuses on mastering various firearms, improving accuracy, handling, and efficiency in combat engagements. It grants the following benefits:

+30% accuracy and precision with firearms

+30% chance to score critical hits with ranged weapons

+30% speed of reloading and weapon maintenance ]

[ Field Medic Lv10 (Max): A vital skill that equips the soldier with medical knowledge and first aid expertise to treat injuries and ailments during missions. It grants the following benefits:

+40% effectiveness of healing abilities

+40% chance to find or create medical supplies

+40% speed of administering first aid ]

[ Adrenaline Surge Lv10 (Max): A unique skill that allows Lucas to harness bursts of adrenaline in combat situations, boosting strength, speed, and endurance. It grants the following benefits:

+50% temporary boost to combat abilities during intense encounters

+50% chance to recover quickly from injuries or fatigue

+50% speed of adrenaline activation ]

[ Close Quarters Combat Lv10 (Max): A specialized skill that specializes in close combat techniques, enhancing the soldier's proficiency in melee combat and hand-to-hand confrontations. It grants the following benefits:

+50% damage dealt in close combat

+50% chance to parry or counter enemy melee attacks

+50% speed of executing close-quarters maneuvers ]

"What are five of your survival skills?" Shane's eyes lit up after seeing all Lucas' abilities!

'My Territory Lord talent is awesome! With this, my camp had become even stronger! Even if we have another Zombie Wave, it would be a piece of cake!' Shane's thought as he ready the details of the Adrenaline Surge.

It could provide a 50% boost in combat abilities, and it was certainly something he would want to possess!

Without hesitation, Shane decided to give the second Army Set to this person later!

The Army Boots, Army Pants, Army Vest, and Army Helmet would perfectly fit this newcomer.

"Ahem… Alright… You need to get used to this place. Mr. Wadsworth, please tour him for a bit." Shane said as he smiled at Lucas.

"Do you have any questions?" He asked.

Lucas hesitated for a moment before he answered.

"Your gear… it's unlike any military issue I've ever seen. It's like you're prepared for a different kind of battle. May I ask where you managed to get them? Is it from a foreign world?" He asked.

'Oh? This person is inquisitive. He's unlike the others. Is it because he's a soldier?' Shane thought for a moment.

With a slight smile, he gave a nod, acknowledging the soldier's observation.

"Foreign world? Probably… I'm not even sure how the world has changed, Lucas Sterling. I can't explain the origin of things that we get from the Zombies either. Anyway, we know that we face threats that require more than just conventional arms. Here, we adapt, we innovate, and we equip ourselves with whatever gives us the edge." Shane explained.

Lucas took in Shane's appearance, the mystique of his equipment, and the confidence with which he spoke.

It was clear that Shane was a man who not only commanded respect but was also deeply respected by those under his care. He was certainly a great leader.

"I may not understand all that I see here, but I recognize strength when I see it. I will be in your care, Sir Shane…"

Shane's response was a simple, knowing smile.

"Once again… Welcome to our camp… Allow me to guide you around here." Mr Wadsworth said with a hopeful smile on his face. He knew that this person was certainly incredible. With his strength, their estate's security had increased by a huge level!

And with those words, Captain Lucas Sterling, the soldier forged in the fires of apocalypse, joined the ranks of the estate's defenders.

***

Just like that, several days had quickly passed and the day of the Regional Auction Event had arrived!

It was an event arranged by the Apocalypse System where they would transport the top 1000 Survivors to conduct an exclusive Regional Auction!

Shane's eyes lit up as soon as he saw the system's message! Finally! After several days of preparation, the event that he had been waiting for had finally arrived!

Ding!

[ Attention, Survivors!

The day you have all been eagerly anticipating has finally arrived. The Lord of the Realms is proud to present the Regional Auction Event—an exclusive gathering of the top 1000 Survivors of your region. Prepare yourselves for an experience unlike any other, where strategy, wealth, and foresight will pave the way to unimaginable rewards.

Event Details:

Date & Time: The event will commence today at 1200 hours, system time.

Location: The top 1000 Survivors will be teleported to the Grand Auction Hall, a secure and neutral zone created specifically for this event.

Duration: The auction will last for 6 hours, with a possible extension based on Survivor engagement.

Auction Catalog:

A diverse array of items will be up for bid, including but not limited to:

Rare Artifacts: Items imbued with powerful abilities that can turn the tide of battle.

Exclusive Gear: Armor and weapons crafted from materials unknown to the current world.

Mystical Components: Essential for crafting and enchantments, these components are coveted by all.

Survival Resources: Bulk supplies of food, medicine, and other necessities for thriving in the apocalypse. ]