NOVEL NEXT Chapter 7: Chapter 7: A Test of Strength and Trust
**Character's Age:** 7
**Date:** 251 BCE
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### **The Effects of the Pills and Questions**
The changes in Shin and Piao were immediately apparent after taking the pills. Their physical strength, speed, and endurance had increased significantly. However, this transformation left them with questions. As we sat down to rest in the evening, Shin directly confronted me:
**"Where did you get these pills? I've never seen anything like this before."**
Piao, though less outspoken than Shin, looked at me with equal curiosity. Their questions were expected, but I couldn't reveal anything about the system. It was my secret, a crucial advantage for our survival.
---
### **The Story I Fabricated**
Taking a deep breath, I spoke calmly:
**"I met an old man at the marketplace,"** I began. **"He didn't stand out much, but he seemed incredibly wise. He gave me these pills and said: 'These pills cleanse all impurities from the human body. But be warned, a person can only use them once. If they try to use them again, their body won't withstand it, and it will lead to fatal consequences.'"**
Shin, still processing my words, asked bluntly: **"Then why did you give them to us? You could've kept them for yourself."**
Smiling, I replied: **"There were three pills. I used one myself and gave the other two to you because it's not enough for just me to be strong. We all need to be strong to survive in this world."**
This answer seemed to satisfy Shin. **"This stuff really works,"** he said, clenching his fists. **"I feel unbelievably powerful!"**
---
### **Piao's Doubt**
However, Piao wasn't as easily convinced. His sharp gaze scrutinized me before he asked in a calm voice:
**"Why would an old man give something so valuable to a stranger? It doesn't make sense."**
Understanding his skepticism, I replied:
**"You're right; it is strange. But the old man told me these pills come from an ancient tradition and must be given to the right people. I think it's our luck. Besides, you know I'd never give you anything harmful."**
After a moment of thought, Piao nodded. **"I trust you,"** he said, though his expression still held traces of doubt.
---
### **The Bond of Brotherhood**
After the conversation, both Shin and Piao fell silent for a while. In that silence, I thought about the bond we shared. In my previous life, I had never been this close to anyone. I was always alone—no friends, no family to rely on.
But in this world, Shin and Piao had become like brothers to me.
**"I'd do anything for them,"** I thought. **"In this world, we need each other to survive."**
---
### **Our New Level of Strength**
The effects of the pills had turned us into warriors. We now possessed the strength of ordinary 16-year-olds. Combined with our basic sword techniques, this power made us nearly invincible.
#### **Our Individual Strengths:**
1. **Shin:**
His strength and speed had turned him into a beast on the battlefield. With one strike, he could easily incapacitate a common bandit.
2. **Piao:**
His defensive abilities, paired with his endurance, made him the perfect strategic support.
3. **Me:**
I had a balanced build. My speed and strength allowed me to be effective in both offense and defense.
At this level, each of us could easily take down at least five ordinary bandits on our own.
---
### **A Day to Prove Ourselves**
During training, Shin got a chance to showcase his newfound strength. While patrolling near the farmlands, we saw a group of bandits harassing the nearby villages. Shin was immediately eager to act.
**"We can stop them!"** he exclaimed with excitement.
Piao and I hesitated. It seemed like an unnecessary risk. But seeing Shin's determination and newfound confidence, we decided not to hold him back.
---
### **Facing the Bandits**
Ahead of us, 21 bandits had gathered. Among them, their leader stood out—bigger, more muscular, and dressed in better gear than the rest. The moment Shin spotted them, he shouted:
**"You scum! I'll take you all down!"**
The bandits burst into laughter. One of them licked his blade mockingly and said:
**"Hey, kid, get lost before we cut out that little tongue of yours!"**
Shin's courage faltered slightly—it was his first real fight. Piao and I felt the same weight of the situation. But Piao placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder and said calmly, **"We can do this."**
At that moment, I steeled myself. **"If I'm to become a general, I must embrace my destiny. I must act like one."**
Drawing my sword, I pointed it at the taunting bandit and declared: **"We won't let you harm these villagers!"**
The bandit snarled in response: **"You don't know your place, kid! If you want to die so badly, I'll teach you what the real world is like!"**
---
### **The First Move**
The bandit charged at me, but my **Mind of a Prodigy** ability allowed me to predict his moves. I saw through his attack as he aimed for my stomach. Stepping to my right, I dodged his swing.
In that instant, I countered, driving my sword into his side. The bandit staggered, his eyes wide with shock. Blood dripped from his mouth as he muttered, **"Killed by a kid… how humiliating."**
---
### **A System Notification**
The moment I defeated the bandit, the system delivered a notification:
**[Mission: Defeat the Bandits]
Reward: 100 Strategy Manuals.
[Bonus Mission: Defeat the Bandit Leader]
Reward: Strength +2, Speed +1.
Special Skill: General's Aura.
Effect: Doubles the strength of your allies for 1 hour. Cooldown: 24 hours.**
This boosted my determination as I shifted my focus to the bandit leader.
---
### **The Showdown with the Leader**
The leader was unlike the rest. His long, sturdy sword and his presence were intimidating. He approached me, smirking.
**"A brat took down my men, but your luck ends here, little hero."**
I raised my sword into a defensive stance. Shin and Piao were behind me, but I felt this battle was meant to be mine alone.
---
What happens next would determine not only our survival but also our place in this brutal world.
### **First Encounter with the Bandit Leader**
As the bandit leader walked toward me, each step echoed with a sense of confidence and dominance. His sword was far superior to the rusty blades carried by the other bandits, reflecting his status and skill. He stopped a few feet away, scrutinizing me with a smirk.
**"You may have taken down my men,"** he said, **"but the game ends here, boy. The strong survive, and you..."** He paused, raising his sword high, **"...are not strong enough!"**
This wasn't just a test of my physical strength; it was a trial of my mental fortitude as well.
---
### **Shin and Piao's Struggles**
While I faced the leader, Shin and Piao were dealing with the remaining bandits. Shin charged forward, taking down two bandits with sheer force. However, his recklessness left him open, and another bandit slashed his arm with a knife. Shin roared in anger, **"You'll pay for that!"** before delivering a devastating blow that knocked his opponent out cold.
Piao, on the other hand, maintained a strategic defense. He blocked two simultaneous attacks and swiftly countered, incapacitating one of his opponents.
**"Move faster, Piao! Or I'll take care of them all myself!"** Shin shouted.
Piao replied calmly, **"Talk less, Shin. If you don't focus, you'll get hurt worse."**
---
### **The Leader's First Attack**
The leader made his first move, aiming a swift and powerful strike at my torso. I stepped back just in time, dodging the blade, but I had no opportunity to counter.
**"Not bad,"** he said, smirking. **"But dodging won't save you for long."**
I needed a new strategy. Simply avoiding his attacks would only prolong the fight and exhaust me.
---
### **Mental Focus and Strategy**
I activated the **Mind of a Genius** ability, carefully analyzing the leader's movements. His strikes were precise and powerful, but I noticed a pattern: his right-handed attacks left his left side exposed.
**"I need to exploit that opening,"** I thought to myself. **"If I can keep him on the defensive, I might have a chance."**
---
### **First Counterattack**
As the leader launched another overhead strike, I dodged and moved to his left, swinging my sword with all my strength. My blade struck his armor, forcing him back a few steps but failing to penetrate.
His smirk faded into a stern expression. **"So, you've got some skill,"** he admitted. **"But it won't be enough."**
---
### **Shin and Piao's Support**
Shin and Piao were gaining the upper hand against the bandits. Shin had just felled another opponent when I saw a bandit creeping up behind him. I shouted, **"Shin! Behind you!"**
Shin spun around just in time to avoid a fatal blow, though the knife grazed his arm. Fueled by rage, he quickly counterattacked and knocked the bandit unconscious.
Meanwhile, Piao cornered his remaining foes by staying calm and calculated. He baited two bandits into clashing their swords against each other, then swiftly disabled them.
**"Slow but effective,"** he muttered to himself.
---
### **Second Clash with the Leader**
The leader approached again, this time more cautiously. He swung his blade in wide arcs, trying to back me into a corner. However, with my **Mind of a Genius** ability, I could anticipate his moves.
I focused on his exposed left side. This time, I struck faster and harder, landing a solid blow to his ribs. He stumbled back, clutching his side.
**"I underestimated you,"** he growled. **"But this ends now."**
---
### **Final Strike and Victory**
The leader unleashed a desperate final attack, swinging his sword with all his might. As he overcommitted, he left his left side wide open. I seized the opportunity, slashing his knee with a precise strike. He fell to the ground, dropping his weapon.
I pointed my sword at his throat and said firmly, **"Leave this village and never come back."**
The leader smirked weakly. **"You speak like a little general. But this is only the beginning. Greater enemies await you."**
With one final swing, I ended him. A notification from the system appeared immediately:
**[Bonus Objective Complete: Defeat the Bandit Leader]**
**Reward: Strength +2, Speed +1, Special Ability: General's Aura.**
---
### **General's Aura: A New Power**
The system explained my new ability:
**General's Aura**
**Effect:** Doubles the strength of allies for 1 hour.
**Cooldown:** 24 hours.
This ability wasn't just a physical enhancement; it symbolized my growing leadership skills.
---
### **Celebrating with Shin and Piao**
After dealing with the last of the bandits, Shin and Piao joined me. Despite their exhaustion, they were filled with pride.
**"These guys were easier than I thought,"** Shin said, ignoring the blood dripping from his arm.
Piao, ever cautious, replied, **"This was just a small group. Bigger threats are inevitable. But this was a good start."**
---
### **Conclusion: Strength and Responsibility**
This battle tested not only our physical abilities but also our teamwork and strategy. The **General's Aura** ability reinforced my role as a leader and reminded me of the responsibility that came with it.
As I sheathed my sword, I thought to myself:
**"This is just the beginning. Greater challenges lie ahead, but we're stronger, smarter, and more determined than ever."**
With Shin and Piao by my side, I began preparing for the battles yet to come. This wasn't just about survival anymore—it was about leaving a mark on this world.
### **The Villagers' Gratitude**
After finishing off the leader, Shin, Piao, and I took a moment to catch our breath. Silence settled after the battle. Around us lay the fallen bodies of the bandits, scattered belongings, and the marks of conflict. This silence was broken by the sound of footsteps gradually approaching us from the village.
First, a group of elders appeared, followed by women and children. Their faces displayed a mix of fear and gratitude. An old man stepped forward. His eyes were filled with tears, and his hands trembled. He looked at us carefully and said:
"Are you not the young boys who sell toothbrushes and eggs at the market?"
Shin, confident and a bit proud, smiled and said, "Yes, that's us! Don't worry. We've taken care of these bandits; they won't bother you again."
I nodded and added, "It was a coincidence that we were here, but we're glad we could help you."
---
### **Thanks and an Offer**
The old man approached us, trying to hide the tears streaming from his eyes. He clasped his hands together and bowed slightly. "Thank you so much," he said. "If it weren't for you, these bandits would have continued to exploit us. They were taking everything we had. We'll do anything you ask. Please tell us how we can repay you."
The other villagers also bowed their heads in gratitude, whispering their thanks. But this offer made me think. Drawing more attention was not a good idea for us right now. We were still young, and such fame could have dangerous consequences in the future. We needed to avoid events that could create a butterfly effect.
---
### **Keep It a Secret**
I thought to myself, "We may be starting to become strong, but we still lack experience. Attracting too much attention could jeopardize our future plans." I took a deep breath, turned to the old man, and said:
"It was an honor to help you. But we have one request. Please keep what happened here a secret."
The old man asked in surprise, "A secret? Why? People should know who you are. They should recognize you as our heroes!"
I shook my head and explained calmly, "If you tell people that young boys like us saved you, it could be dangerous for us. We might attract more enemies, which could create problems for us. So, please tell them that a group of guards helped you."
---
### **The Villagers' Reaction**
A murmur spread among the villagers at this explanation. Some seemed puzzled, while others nodded, understanding that we were trying to protect our interests. The old man remained silent for a moment. The gratitude in his eyes was replaced by determination. He bowed slightly and said:
"I promise. We will keep what happened here a secret. We will tell people that a group of guards saved us. But know that in our hearts, you are the true heroes."
---
### **Shin and Piao's Reactions**
Shin didn't seem very pleased that the villagers accepted this. "But why?" he asked. "Everyone should know how strong we are! It's not a bad thing for people to be grateful to us."
Piao, ever the calm one, turned to Shin and said, "Shin, if people recognize us as heroes, we might attract more enemies. Zhi Yong's plan is to protect our future. Remember, winning a battle requires not just strength but also strategy."
This explanation made Shin think for a moment. Finally, he nodded and said, "Alright, I trust Zhi Yong's plans. But one day, everyone will know our names!"
---
### **Farewell to the Villagers**
The villagers gratefully brought us food and water. We accepted these but didn't ask for more. I knew we shouldn't stay in the village for too long to avoid attracting attention. As we said goodbye to the old man, I reiterated:
"Please keep this a secret. You'll be doing us a favor. But if you ever need help again, you'll find a way to reach us."
The old man bowed deeply with respect: "I promise. We won't let any harm come to you."
---
### **On the Way Back**
After leaving the village, we headed back to our farm. Along the way, we reflected on what had happened. Pointing to the wound on his arm, Shin said, "I narrowly escaped that bandit. I need to be more careful."
Piao, with a more serious expression, said, "This was just a small group of enemies. We'll face greater dangers. But this was a good experience for us to learn how to work together."
I shared my thoughts as well: "We won today, but it was a warning. We need to become stronger and think more strategically. This world only allows the strong to survive."
---
### **A New Notification from the System**
As we continued, the system sent a notification:
**[Mission Completed: Defeat the Bandits]
Reward: 100 Strategy Books.
[Bonus Mission Completed: Kill the Bandit Leader]
Reward: Strength +2, Speed +1.
New Ability: General's Aura (Effect: Doubles the strength of allies for 1 hour. Cooldown: 24 hours.)**
These rewards were a significant advantage for us. My new ability would enhance our team's success in future battles.
---
### **Conclusion and New Goals**
That night, when we reached our farm, we were tired but filled with the joy of victory. We felt stronger not just physically but also mentally. However, this strength brought greater responsibilities.
**Our Goals:**
1. **Physical Enhancement:** We'll intensify our training to become stronger both individually and as a team.
2. **Strategic Development:** We'll study the 100 Strategy Books to improve our war planning and leadership skills.
3. **New Missions:** We'll explore new missions offered by the system to earn more rewards.
Piao, sitting quietly and thinking, said, "We learned a good lesson today. But this is just the beginning. We need to be ready for more."
Shin smiled energetically: "With this power, we'll achieve much greater things. One day, everyone will know our names!"
Watching their determination, I thought to myself, "We are stronger together. We'll find our place in this world. But first, we need to learn more and work harder."