Chapter 22: The First Expedition
The morning after the "Evolved Seed" was destroyed, the shelter buzzed with a mix of relief and renewed fear. The survivors, though grateful for the immediate danger being averted, were now acutely aware of the unpredictable nature of this new world. Kaelen's actions had solidified his position as their protector, but they had also unveiled a terrifying truth: the threats were evolving, and the world outside was far more complex than they had imagined.
Kaelen, who was now seen as the shelter's savior and guardian, however, felt a different kind of urgency. His new Mana Affinity hummed within him, a constant reminder of the power he now wielded and the potential it held. He spent the early hours of the day analyzing the black crystal he had retrieved from the pit.
[Analyzing...][Mana Crystal (Tier 1) - Highly Concentrated.][Properties: Contains pure, stable mana. Can be used for mana replenishment, crafting, or as a catalyst for awakening.]
"A Mana Crystal..." Kaelen murmured, a flicker of understanding in his eyes. This was a direct product of the "Evolved Seed's" destruction, a condensed form of the raw mana. It was far more potent than the regular essence crystals. This discovery confirmed his suspicion: these "Seeds" were not just threats, but also sources of valuable resources.
He also took the time to review his System stats once more. His mind raced, connecting the dots. The System's constant push for higher levels, the diminishing returns from weaker monsters, and the immense rewards from major challenges like the "Evolved Seed" – it all pointed to one thing: constant evolution was mandatory for survival, and stagnation meant death.
His path was clear. He needed to explore, to find more "Mana Nexuses," to push his limits, and to gather resources that could help him, and perhaps others, ascend. His family's fate was intertwined with this journey; he knew he couldn't find them by staying put.
Before setting out, Kaelen approached Harun. The leader was still visibly shaken but had regained some of his usual composure.
"I'm going out again," Kaelen stated, holding up the black Mana Crystal. "This is what was left of the 'Seed.' It's a concentrated form of mana. We might find more of these, and other resources, if we explore deeper into the university."
Harun's eyes widened at the sight of the crystal. "What... what is this? Is it safe?"
"It's pure mana. It's safe," Kaelen assured him. "But the areas where these 'Seeds' form are dangerous. I need a small, reliable team to help me secure the perimeter and transport resources. Not fighters, just people who can follow orders and move quickly."
Harun hesitated. Sending more people outside was a risk, but the potential rewards were undeniable. The shelter's resources were dwindling. "Alright," he said finally. "I'll select a few individuals. They will report directly to you. What's your objective?"
"My objective is to secure more resources and understand the threats," Kaelen replied. "But my ultimate goal is to find a way to make this shelter truly self-sufficient, and perhaps, to find others like us." He didn't mention his family directly, knowing it was a personal quest. [He realized: The shelter's stability would provide a safe base and continuous resources, granting him the freedom and flexibility to achieve his personal goals without constraints or obligations beyond protecting the shelter from immediate threats.]
Harun nodded slowly, a thoughtful look on his face. "Very well. Be careful, Guardian."
Within an hour, Harun had assembled a small team of three individuals: a quiet, sturdy man named Caleb who was good with logistics, a nimble young woman named Layla who had a keen eye for detail, and a former engineering student named Ethan who knew the university layout well. None of them were Awakened, but they were resourceful and trusted.
Kaelen briefed them quickly. "Our priority is reconnaissance and resource gathering. Avoid direct confrontation unless absolutely necessary. Your lives are important. Follow my lead, always."
As they prepared to leave, Emily approached Kaelen, her eyes filled with a new determination. "I want to come with you," she said, her voice firm.
Kaelen looked at her, surprised. "It's too dangerous, Emily. You need to stay here."
"No," she insisted. "After what happened, I feel... different. Like something inside me is stirring. I want to understand it, and I want to help. I can assist with medical supplies, and I won't be a burden. Please, Kaelen."
He saw the unwavering resolve in her eyes, a reflection of his own. He also remembered the strange feeling she mentioned after the mana explosion. Perhaps this was an opportunity for her to awaken her own potential.
"Alright," Kaelen finally conceded. "But you stay close to me. No heroics. Understand?"
Emily's face lit up. "Understood!"
With his small, hand-picked team, Kaelen stepped out of the shelter once more. The sun was higher now, casting harsh shadows, but the air still carried the faint, unsettling hum of mana. This was their first true expedition into the unknown, a journey that would redefine their understanding of survival and the evolving apocalypse. The university awaited, a vast, silent labyrinth holding both danger and the promise of answers.
Reader Comment: A Cat Who Loves Cola
"Meow! This chapter was purr-fectly thrilling! Kaelen's new mana powers are making my whiskers twitch with excitement. And Emily joining the team? She better bring snacks! This world is getting wilder than a catnip party. Can't wait to see what shiny new things they find next! sips cola"