As the sun shone brightly, its rays hit a boy's face as if to bless him.
He woke and stretched his lean, athletic body. At 6'1", with blond hair and sky-blue eyes, a chiseled jawline, and sharp features, not even an idiot would call him ugly.
Lucian Rowen left the house early, feeding stray cats along his casual stroll. The sun enhanced the surroundings, reflecting perfectly on his designer sneakers and crisp uniform. "What a beautiful day," he thought, smirking slightly. Life had always been… comfortable for him, and he liked it that way.
---
He arrived at school on time, nodding politely to a few students. Many people looked his way—but he didn't mind. Attention, after all, was natural for someone like him.
He sat at his assigned seat, immediately surrounded by students eager to talk.
Beside him, a tall, imposing figure sat.
"What's up, Mark?" Lucian greeted with a confident smile. The boy had short red hair and crimson eyes. Marcus Reed—muscle-headed, blunt, but his most loyal friend.
"What's up," Marcus replied.
As they chatted, a black-haired student entered the classroom, shuffling like a zombie and collapsing into his seat.
"Hey Mark, do you know him?" Lucian asked.
"Yeah… Julian Cross. Doesn't interact much. Just comes and goes," Marcus replied.
Lucian raised an eyebrow, unconcerned. "Hmph… not that I care."
---
Classes went as usual. Lunch arrived, and Lucian noticed Julian stand and leave hurriedly.
Walking with Marcus, they were approached by a girl with brown hair and matching eyes—Emily Carter.
"Hello, boys. Mind if I join?" she asked.
Lucian smiled, oozing effortless charm. "Sure, Emily. It'd be rude not to."
Their group attracted attention as they walked to the cafeteria. Suddenly, Julian bolted past them.
At the table, Lucian continued casual conversation, his posture straight, his presence commanding. Then a long-haired girl with icy blue eyes and cold grace passed by. Clara Winters. His crush. She didn't glance at him.
"Pathetic," he thought, crossing his arms. Not even acknowledging me? Amateur.
Emily's annoyance flared. "You're an idiot. I'm leaving," she declared, storming out. Lucian shrugged with a small, smug smile. With her, it's the same as usual.
---
After lunch, classes resumed. One seat was empty—Julian's.
I don't even talk to him, Lucian thought, unconcerned.
Then, a blue panel appeared in front of everyone:
> [Hello Challenger Lucian Rowen, welcome to the Apocalypse. This is a message from 'The Will' to all challengers of EARTH. Your world has been selected to participate in the apocalypse. All must complete the First Phase of the First Stage to awaken your latent paths and unique skill. This is the end of your world. Survive and may the stars be with you.]
Lucian's brow arched, curiosity piqued. He glanced at Marcus, who looked equally confused.
"What the hell…?" Marcus muttered.
Another panel appeared:
> [Initiating Phase One. Location: Classroom… Confirmed.]
[Awakening Quest: Kill 10 Goblins.]
[Reward: Beginner's Gift, Awakening, Status.]
Outside, screams erupted. Through the window, a horde of small, green, ugly creatures with pointy ears and noses surged toward the school.
Lucian moved quickly, closing the door with an authoritative slam. Silence fell—broken only by chaos outside as monsters spread across the city.
Teachers froze in disbelief; students panicked. Lucian stood tall, exuding calm confidence.
Focus, breathe… this is nothing I can't handle, he thought.
Then he addressed the class, voice clear and a facade display of gentleness in his voice.
. Okay I know , monsters are outside, and yes, this is not normal. But panicking will get us nowhere! Stay calm, stay together, and protect each other."
Meeting every student's eyes, he continued, "Right now, all we can do is follow the rules, work as a team, and survive. Trust me—and trust the people around you. Fear is normal… but courage is what keeps us alive!"
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