The golden watch vibrated on Elias's wrist again, but this time not with a simple notification.
It shuddered violently, like something inside it was trying to break free.
Elias stepped into a quieter alley behind the mall, away from the crowd.
The moment he lifted his arm to examine the device, a new message flickered across the screen:
---
Mainline Quest Unlocked: "Ascend or Perish."
You are not the only bearer of a Watch.
Others are watching you... competing against you.
Survive, evolve, and conquer, or be erased.
Upcoming Task:
Location: Hollow Creek Abandoned Grounds.
Time: Tonight, 11:59 PM sharp.
Objective: Eliminate or Ally with Other Watch Bearers.
Rewards:
Unknown Artifact Piece.
Advanced Charm Upgrade.
Enhanced Physical Appearance (+15%).
---
Elias narrowed his eyes.
Others?
He wasn't alone?
A cold breeze passed through the alleyway, whispering ominously.
For the first time, he understood:
The tasks weren't random games. They were preparation.
The Watch was not only granting him power — it was shaping him into a weapon.
---
You have unlocked new Perks:
Medicine Expert (Lv.1) — Basic antidote and healing knowledge.
Driving Prodigy — Can expertly handle any vehicle.
IQ Enhancement — Complex problem solving speed increased by 25%.
Charm Boost — Natural likeability and persuasion enhanced.
Physical Enhancement — Strength, Agility, and Stamina +20%.
---
Elias felt the changes ripple through him like an unseen tide.
His vision was clearer.
His muscles felt denser, stronger, like coiled steel.
Even when he caught a glimpse of his reflection in a store window, he noticed a subtle difference: his posture was more confident, his appearance sharper, more magnetic.
People passing by unconsciously glanced his way — some intrigued, others intimidated.
The watch buzzed again with a side alert:
---
Optional Task:
Master Any New Skill Using Skill Elixir (Available 1x).
Recommendation: "Combat Mastery" or "Negotiation Arts."
Choose Wisely.
---
Elias stared at the screen, his mind racing.
Each decision would shape his future battles, alliances, and enemies.
He couldn't afford to make a mistake.
Tonight, Hollow Creek would decide everything.
But before that, he had to prepare.
He tightened the strap of the watch around his wrist, feeling the reassuring weight of destiny sitting there.
A smile tugged at his lips.
"Bring it on," Elias murmured.
---