True Martial World - Chapter 14: Sucking it all dry

In the year 4 Before the New Calendar, just four years before the arrival of the Great Tomb of Nazarick, Lyle finds himself sitting by the roadside, gnawing on a piece of coarse black rye bread. His gaze is hollow, tinged with despair—he has been transported to the world of Overlord.The prospect of facing the devastating events to come chills him to the bone. In just a few years, the Great Tomb will unleash its might, razing nations and reshaping the world. Lyle foresees two grim paths ahead: perishing in the cataclysmic aftermath or surviving to live under the rule of the Sorcerer Kingdom.But as hopelessness threatens to consume him, a unique panel materializes before his eyes: Innate Ability: “Player”.Armed with the same advantage as the feared entities of Nazarick, Lyle resolves to carve his destiny. If they're all players in this grand game, why should he cower before them? The race against time begins as he seeks to grow stronger, navigate the treacherous world, and defy the fate that looms ever closer.

In the wake of the first wave of shadow creatures, the world was plunged into ruin, a desolate yet enchanted wasteland. Humanity, driven underground, clung to survival while desperately plotting to reclaim their shattered world.But from the abyss of darkness, something miraculous stirred—a mysterious tree, shimmering with ancient power, appeared overnight. It chose only the strongest of heart, those with unbreakable will, gifting them extraordinary abilities. With these powers, humanity rose from the depths, waging war against the shadows.Yet beneath the surface of their heroic deeds lay a hidden rot. Corruption seeped into their ranks, and arrogance clouded their judgment. As their powers grew, so did the whispers of betrayal. The true battle may not be against the creatures lurking in the shadows—but against the darkness festering within their own hearts.A question lingers: When heroes fall, who will rise to take their place?

[Are you crippled?][Did your fiancé break the engagement?][Did you lose your family to a demon attack? Are you the last surviving member of your clan, seeking revenge?][Does your family look at you with pity because you're the only one without any innate spiritual roots?][Are you tired of being told that you're a 'waste of resources'?][Are you stuck with no way to progress? Are you tired of being weak and helpless?][Well, have no fear! This Supreme Master is here to help you!]

Kai is a broke streamer with nothing left to lose, except his dying sister.When Ascension Online, the most realistic VR game ever created, launches, he dives in to survive. Views mean money. Money means treatment. Treatment means hope.But during his very first broadcast, something impossible happens.A system awakens.Not part of the game.Not part of the code.A system that rewards influence, impact… and domination.> [Milestone Achieved: First Viral Stream][Reward Granted: SSS-Ranked Skill]The stronger his legend grows online, the stronger he becomes in-game.Then the changes begin to follow him offline.And Kai realizes the terrifying truth,Ascension Online was never just a game.It was a selection.