Episode 3: The First Dungeon
"Let’s see... how big is this world... and how will I conquer it?"
Kuro adjusted his clothes, tightened his grip on the Steel Dagger, and took a deep breath.
"300 meters north... that’s not too far. But it’s a dungeon, which means it’s going to be more dangerous than anything I’ve faced so far."
The system screen flickered—
[New Mission Unlocked]
Mission: Locate and enter the Dungeon Gate
Reward: +50 XP & Random Item
Time Limit: 30 minutes
Failure Penalty: -10 XP
"A random item? This could be a jackpot."
He opened his mini-map and followed the direction toward the north, into a dense forest. He kept checking his skills’ cooldowns and scanning the path ahead.
"I’m only Level 2... even the smallest mistake could be fatal. But if I clear every mission, my power growth will be unstoppable."
Minutes Later...
A faint blue glow shimmered between the trees. A stone archway stood tall with swirling mist inside.
"This must be it... the Dungeon Gate."
[You Have Reached: Forgotten Tunnel - E-Class Dungeon]
Status: Untouched
Note: You are the first explorer of this dungeon in this world.
"First explorer? Maybe I’ll get a First Clear Bonus."
Kuro smirked.
"Let’s see who rules this dungeon now."
[Entering Dungeon...]
Inside, the air turned cold. The walls were ancient stone. Darkness surrounded him, save for a flickering flame in the distance.
"Could someone have been here before me?"
Tick... Tick... Tick...
"That sound... a trap?"
Kuro activated Camouflage. His body blurred into shadow.
Click!
An arrow shot past, narrowly missing his face.
"Too close..."
Still cloaked, he moved ahead. In a nearby chamber, three goblins huddled with sharp hooks and torches.
"Perfect. Time to test Backstab."
He crept behind one and—
[Backstab Activated!]
CRACK! One goblin dropped instantly.
The others turned in shock.
"Quick Step!"
He dashed between them. One fell to a Shadow Strike. The last tried to run—but Kuro’s dagger found its mark.
THUD!
[Room Cleared]
XP Gained: +80
Item Drop: Shadow Thread (Rare Material)
"Shadow Thread? Let’s check it."
Item: Shadow Thread
Rarity: Rare
Description: Enhances shadow-based equipment or skills.
"Rare item already? This Rogue class is going to pay off."
He stored it and proceeded deeper.
Suddenly—a thunderous roar shook the dungeon.
GROOOAAAARRRR!!!
"What the hell was that?!"
[Mini Boss Detected]
Name: Stone Gnoll
HP: 1200
Danger Level: HIGH
Note: Dodge attacks! It’s slow but hits hard!
Kuro’s breathing quickened. Still, a grin tugged at his lips.
"A mini-boss already? Perfect."
He gripped his weapon tightly.
"Let’s show them how a Rogue fights."
[To Be Continued...]