The World of SENSES: An Introvert's Journey as the Helper Begins.

Chapter 11.1

Kin and Clark walked through the south gate of Danem City. A lot of people looked at Kin and Clark while passing through the gate. And it makes sense because In SENSES you cannot form a team with an NPC unless the NPC is a mercenary you hire or soldiers from the city or kingdom you lead. Players could distinguish NPCs by the subtle difference in name color, so it was no surprise that Clark's presence alongside Kin sparked curiosity.

That's why when they saw Kin and Clark walking together, it became a special thing. It was just the two of them, this city was a beginner's city, so it was impossible for a player who was capable enough to hire a mercenary. Kin noticed many players glancing their way, but he remained undisturbed. His focus was on Clark's plan to reach Stolitsa City first.

"Why are we heading to Stolitsa City?" Kin asked as they walked. "Shouldn't we be going to Tzami City?"

Clark smiled after hearing Kin's question. "So you understand that Tzami City is in a different direction from Stolitsa City. If we go straight to Tzami city from here we need to pass through many formidable monsters. It's safer to go to Stolitsa first and join a merchant group heading to Tzami."

Kin still doesn't understand Clark's reasons. "But we're strong enough to handle those monsters, aren't we?" Kin insisted. "I proved myself in Darewof Cave, and I'm equipped like your captain."

Clark sighed, having anticipated Kin's reaction. "I might be strong, but protecting you simultaneously is uncertain. Moreover, the route to Stolitsa is easier and offers you more combat experience."

Clark's comment hurt Kin's pride. With a determined tone, Kin tried to debate Clark's comment. "I am strong enough to protect myself. I'm capable enough to fight. You saw me fight. I managed to kill the wolves in Darewof cave."

Clark let out a long breath. Clark gestured toward the forest. "Then prove it. Follow me."

They continued walking into the forest. Several small monsters could be seen passing by them. Clark dispatched them effortlessly. Meanwhile, Kin was unable to avoid the monster's attacks several times but was still able to kill the monster with 5 or more attempts. After some time, Clark finally slowed his steps. Kin saw in front of them a monster like a rooster with the height same as his chest and was carrying a small ax in his hand. Kin recognized that the monster's name was Rooster (Ax). Rooster is a level 50 monster. And when compared to Kin's level right now, Kin's levels are 30 levels higher than the monster's.

"Try fighting that monster." Clark instructed.

Kin drew his sword and held it in his right hand and a small shield in the other. Kin checked his HP which was now full again even though it had been reduced when fighting small monsters while walking through the forest. He ran and tried to stab at the rooster. The monster noticed Kin's movement and before Kin's sword stabbed it, the monster jumped back so that Kin's sword only pierced the wind. After it landed, the monster ran towards Kin. Kin raised his small shield and covered his head. However, the rooster's attack still hit Kin in the thigh.

[You suffer damage equal to 500]

Due to the level differences and strong armor, Kin's HP was only reduced by 500. Kin took a few steps back. Then approach the Rooster (Ax) again and try to slash at its feet. Kin's attack was dodge again and the chicken monster's counter attack again and it hit Kin's body.

[You suffer damage equal to 500]

This happened several times until Kin's HP dropped to 50%. Clark, who watched the fight from the start, finally stood up and walked towards Rooster (Ax). He swung his sword and managed to slash the chicken monster's leg. Then he continued with a stab toward its chest and finally slashed its neck. Finally, the Rooster (Ax) died and shattered into dust. Kin could only remain silent when he saw Clark's movements and then sat down because he was too tired.

Clark approached Kin and crouched in front of him. " Still think you don't need my protection?" Clark continued to stare at Kin's eyes.

How could he kill that damn chicken monster so easily? Kin was annoyed to see his current condition.

"You attacked it from its blind spot. That's why you can easily kill it." Kin tried to argue.

"Yes. Fine if that's what you think. I'll face those Roosters directly" Clark replaces his greatsword with a one-handed sword like Kin used. With his sword, Clark pointed towards the three Roosters (Ax). Then Clark ran towards one of the Roosters (Ax) and tried to stab it. But the Rooster noticed Clark's movements and jumped back to avoid Clark's attack. Clark's attack only hit the air. But he did not stop his movements and took a long step so he managed to stab another Rooster (Ax).

The other two Roosters (Ax) tried to flank and swing its ax. Clark strengthened his grip on his sword and slashed the previous chicken monster that he stabbed. He succeeded in slicing its stomach. He continued the momentum of his sword and slashed the wing of two other Roosters (Ax) who were about to attack him. The first Rooster (Ax) died and shattered into dust. Without stopping Clark spun using his attack momentum and slashed the other two roosters (axes) at its chest. The last two Roosters (Ax) died and shattered into dust.

Clark walked towards Kin who couldn't say anything after Clark's fight with three Roosters (Ax). Clark stretched out his hand and tried to help Kin stand. "I can protect myself, but I can't protect you at the same time Kin."

Fell defeated. Kin raised his head and looked directly into Clark. "W... What's wrong with me Clark?"

Clark's response was gentle but honest. "First, it seems like you don't have the status for a fighter let alone a melee fighter. So your movements when attacking are too stiff. Second, there is no pattern when attacking, let alone a follow-up attack after the first attack fails. The most fatal thing is that you are too afraid of the opponent's attacks."

Clark answered Kin's question while still looking at him. Kin's shoulders dropped and his head got lower after hearing Clark's explanation.

My current status distribution is not clear, maybe it can still be improved. For movements when attacking, I have to continue using skills, but skills are limited by their cooldown and so is my mana. I'm scared of the opponent's attack. Who isn't afraid? Isn't that normal?

Sensing Kin's vulnerability, Clark offered. " I can train you if you're interested."

That question broke Kin's thoughts. At that moment, Kin immediately raised his head and held Clark's hand with sparkling eyes. "Please train me."

Clark tried to push Kin a little because he felt a little burden with Kin's eyes. "O okay Kin, I will help you during our journey. So back to our discussion, are we still going to force our way straight to Tzami city?"

"No, we will head to Stolitsa City. But Clark, I hope you will seriously train me during this journey." A burning determination could be seen in Kin's eyes.

A burden started to pile up behind Clark's back. He let Kin's hand go forcefully. "Okay, okay calm down a little. Now let's go to Stolitsa City and we will do your training every morning and evening. In the morning I will train you with some sword movement and in the afternoon we will look for monsters that you can fight. How about that?"

Kin nodded enthusiastically.

After that, Kin and Clark walked back through the forest and walked the main road between Danem City and Stolitsa City toward Stolitsa City.