Nova Force Book 1

Upon arriving at the village we were greeted with sweet aroma from some honey roasted frog legs and chicken legs with some goat soup with pig tails. You see, I can cook really well, so I could tell you exactly what's in a meal with just a smell also my senses are a bit heightened so it's even better. 

"Welcome back, everyone," Ted's voice resonated as he greeted us with a warm smile, his eyes lighting up with familiarity.

"Where have you been?" My mom's tone held a stern note, her curiosity mixed with a touch of concern.

"I went out for a run and stumbled upon this incredibly comfortable spot. Believe it or not, it's even cozier than the beds we have here," I explained, my excitement bubbling over.

"Really? Describe it!" Janessa chimed in, her eyes widening with interest as she joined the conversation.

"It's out in that open plain, with the most enchanting flowers you can imagine," I replied, my words carrying a sense of wonder.

"Uncle, uncle, uncle!" My little nephew's exuberant shout filled the air as he and his giggling friends sprinted towards me, their energy infectious.

"Wassup, youngsters? You all look like a lively bunch," I greeted them, crouching down to their level, my heart warmed by their enthusiasm.

"Yep, we're having a blast!" my nephew exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "We found a secret hideout."

"Ah, a secret hideout, you say? Well, you've certainly piqued my curiosity," I replied with a playful grin, instantly intrigued by their youthful adventures.

Two of his little friends, Monique and Joshua. They had lost their entire family and so now everyone in the community takes care of them like their own. I love them like my own family.

"Well you guys better show me your hide out one day." I said with a smile.

Most of the community sat outside in the open area where we all gathered at times. Sitting on board or stone chairs arranged in a circular format. Sometimes the stone chairs would collapse because to keep them it shape you would have to constantly supply it with energy. Ted was the only Earth user who could manipulate the earth directly but not on a large scale to craft a chair. 

The food was in the middle like buffet style at a hotel. Everyone took just enough to fill them. We really lived close and loving here so everyone cared about each other and made sure we were well-fed and healthy and happy. Before this everyone cared about themselves. I can say out of destruction came life because we are together.

"Wow, it's like I'm at a hotel," Alexa exclaimed, her eyes wandering around in awe as she took in the scene before her.

"Yup, this is our weekend ritual – a little slice of luxury from Friday to Sunday," I replied with a chuckle, sharing in her excitement.

Her curiosity piqued, Alexia leaned in and asked, "What about the rest of the week? How do you all manage meals then?"

I grinned, glad for the chance to share more about our unique lifestyle. "During the week, it's a bit different. We've adopted a more relaxed approach. Each person takes care of their own meals, cooking whenever they're hungry."

"That's quite a flexible system," Alexia mused, nodding in understanding.

"Indeed, it gives everyone the freedom to work on their own schedules and indulge in their culinary preferences," I explained, gesturing towards the communal dining area where a group of friends were enjoying a potluck-style dinner.

As we strolled through the dinner space, I began to elaborate on the inner workings of our little haven. "You see, we're not just a group of people living together – we're a tightly-knit community. We have a team dedicated to foraging for food, exploring the nearby forests and fields for fresh ingredients."

Alexia's eyes lit up with intrigue. "That sounds fascinating. And what about the farmers?"

L"We're fortunate to have a few skilled farmers among us," I continued, my tone filled with pride. "They tend to our own vegetable and herb gardens, ensuring a steady supply of organic produce."

Alexia nodded appreciatively. "It's like a self-sustained ecosystem."

"Exactly," I agreed, a sense of satisfaction in my voice. 

"Our little community is thriving because we've found a way to live in harmony with nature and with each other."

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the scene, I looked around at the smiling faces and the bustling activity. "It's more than just a place to live – it's a way of life we've built together."

Alexia's eyes reflected a mix of admiration and understanding, and I knew that our story was resonating with her.

After our brief introductions, I guided our guests to where they could freshen up and prepare for the upcoming feast. Janessa, my sister, took charge of the female visitors, leading them to our cozy abode, while Kero kindly escorted Eugene to a nearby public bathroom, where a refreshing shower awaited him.

The bathroom was a simple yet ingenious creation. Instead of modern fixtures, our village embraced a harmonious blend of nature and magic. A wooden container, akin to a basin, was mounted with care, accompanied by a wooden shower head equipped with a basic switch. The water, magically summoned by a water user, flowed into the container, allowing for a delightful shower experience. A gentle twist of the wooden switch controlled the water's flow, a blend of convenience and enchantment seamlessly intertwined.

This unique design wasn't confined to a single location; it was a hallmark of our village's ethos. Our humble beginnings centered around a central bathhouse, but over time, we expanded, constructing more residences crafted from bricks and wood. The bricks, fashioned from clay soil and forged in a furnace, mirrored our commitment to resourcefulness and growth.

Expansion had become necessary, and Ted, the guiding hand of our community, recognized the challenges of stone walls. The construction was arduous, and their durability left much to be desired. Additionally, the energy expenditure required from our earth magic users was substantial. Ted wisely halted further stone wall construction, anticipating our ongoing expansion. While we awaited more brick production, a process demanding both time and dedication, the wooden walls served as interim barriers. 

However, they offered no reassurance against the looming threats – the ants that we encountered and any other monsters.

As the sun cast its golden embrace upon our village, I couldn't help but marvel at the progress we'd achieved. Our commitment to innovation and adaptation had transformed our modest settlement into a thriving haven, a testament to the resilience of our community in the face of both nature's wonders and its challenges.

"Hey, Rome!" Analu's voice pierced the air, jolting me from my reverie. "I've been calling you for a few seconds now.

"My mind had drifted far away, the world around me momentarily forgotten.

"I'm sorry; I was lost in thoughts," I replied, my voice apologetic.

She inquired, and I unraveled the threads of my contemplation. I painted a picture with words, describing the formidable walls that stood as our shield, our safeguard. A reflection, perhaps, of Ted's own musings.

Amid our conversation, a gathering formed. Ted emerged, accompanied by familiar faces – my mom, sister, the ones we had rescued, and others like John, Sarah, Celestia, Kero, Robert, and his team. Those we had rescued, they were becoming an integral part of our community. We, the nucleus of decision-making in our realm, convened.

"I do hope everyone is enjoying themselves and having their fill," Ted began, initiating the conversation.

"Well, I was undoubtedly savoring every bite until y'all came and disrupted my feast," I retorted playfully, evoking laughter from those who truly knew me. They knew I meant the conversation I was having with Analu. The others, unfamiliar with my mannerisms, gazed at me with bemusement. 

"It's just a jest, Mr. Swayden. No need to wear such a serious expression," I clarified, sensing his confusion.

The room breathed easier as laughter flowed, even if some chuckles seemed slightly forced. At least the weight of awkwardness dissipated.

"Rome, we've collectively reached a decision regarding trade between our villages. We wanted to hear your thoughts as well," Ted informed me, steering the conversation toward more serious matters.

"They're good people, and trading is essential for rebuilding our society. Besides, their carts and goats would be a valuable addition. So, yes, let's proceed," I responded with conviction.

"Agreed. We can initiate distributions next week," Mr. Swayden confirmed.

"And to strengthen our ties further, how about a celebration biweekly, alternating between our villages? It would foster camaraderie," proposed Mr. Raymond, his suggestion met with unanimous approval.

Indeed, it was a well-crafted plan. No discord marred our agreement; instead, a shared vision formed. Unity would be our strength, a shield forged through collaboration and mutual support.

The leaders from our village segued into discussions about the newcomers, leaving the rest of them to relish in the remaining moments of the feast. 

As conversations flowed and food was savored, I silently reflected on the path we were treading. For Alexia, I advocated, given the bond we shared over three years. However, for the others, even though unfamiliar and perhaps wary, I couldn't simply usher them into the unknown. 

Sarah was intimately familiar with the residents of Clare House Village, so blending in with them wasn't a challenge. However, these newcomers posed a different conundrum. The question loomed: who among them was genuinely seeking refuge and who might have ulterior motives? Kero's words cut through the air with a sharp edge, suggesting the drastic action of sending them away or worse.

"Your perspective here surprises me," John retorted. "After finally opening up, this is what you contribute? Just save it."

Amidst the tension, Ted offered a more balanced viewpoint. "Rather than dismissal, let's exercise caution. Allowing them in while keeping a watchful eye might be our middle ground."

Sherone chimed in, her voice a voice of reason. "Empathy matters. Remember, circumstances could easily be reversed, and we'd hope for compassion."

With an air of reluctant agreement, Kero reluctantly conceded with one hand in his pocket and the other waving behind as he spoke. "Alright, but don't say I didn't warn you." His departure left a lingering unease.

Observing Kero's departure, John voiced a sentiment that echoed what they all felt. "This isn't the Kero we know. Maybe he's genuinely worried about us."

"Considering his background as a soldier, his ability to spot deception might be sharper," I added.

"And there's something about Eugene that sets off alarms."Celestia, the voice of pragmatism, spoke up. "Yet in times like these, humanity should prevail so we can't just leave him out to die."

Moved by a desire to defend Alexia, I followed Kero, halting him with a touch. However, his reaction was anything but welcoming, his anger palpable. "Don't touch me!" he snapped.

Trying to defuse the tension, I pleaded, "Relax dude. I'm not arguing against caution, but don't discount lives so easily. Even your instincts can be mistaken. Plus, people change."

Kero remained unyielding. "Naivety is dangerous, and you're treading a perilous path."Resolving to avoid confrontation, you mused inwardly about Kero's unexpected anger. The thought lingered, but your main focus was on monitoring Eugene closely.

Side Story 

As the world continued to spin, life persisted for all. Though some regions were more challenging than others, humanity persevered with determination and resilience. A new tool had emerged, one that was being referred to as the Nova Force - a form of magic that aided in survival and growth.

As villages and towns expanded and guilds formed, news began to spread once more, carried by the whispers of tongues and the wings of messenger birds. With no internet or social media to rely on, this was the only means of communication for now, until civilization progressed to a point where such luxuries could be regained. 

Another enigma to the world were the sudden appearance of mysterious dungeons or labyrinths. These structures were unlike anything seen before - entering one felt as if one had stepped into a different realm or dimension. The enormity of these dungeons was such that it was easy to become lost within them, if one wasn't careful.

Some of the dungeons discovered thus far had entrances as wide and tall as 10 meters, carved into giant rocks, the sides of hills, trees, or other seemingly random locations. Others appeared to be the gateway to an alien planet.

Though strange and bewildering, people from all corners of the world ventured into these dungeons, each level offering its own rewards. Though there was no longer a monetary system, the allure of gold and precious gems proved too much for many to resist, as these treasures were said to be abundant within the depths of the labyrinths.

 Exploring the treacherous dungeons scattered throughout the land was a dangerous task, one that required a certain level of strength and skill. 

The local villagers, who had seen too many brave souls fall to the monsters within, had devised a ranking system to test adventurers before they were allowed to enter. This was not only a safety measure to prevent unnecessary deaths, but also a way for the community to establish a protective system in the aftermath of the great explosion.

It had not been a full year since the cataclysmic event, yet humanity had managed to rebuild and establish a new way of life. This was a testament to their resilience and determination. 

The dungeons offered a chance for people from poor families to gain wealth and prestige, but it also required them to become stronger and more skilled to face the monsters and claim the rewards. 

The world was a harsh and unforgiving place, where even the most mundane creatures could pose a threat to one's survival. But, with the ranking system in place, the villagers could rest assured that their adventurers were prepared for the dangers ahead.

There were scores of people making names for themselves as they defeated monsters all over. 

The New Revolution, a group of six highly skilled individuals, had made a name for themselves on the North-Eastern continent. They were rumored to be strong enough to each easily defeat an Intermediate tier monster. As hunters and adventurers, they were among the elite ranks of skilled Novaticians scattered across other continents.

As more and more people sought to level the playing field against the overwhelming number of monsters, some regions were fortunate enough to have fewer or weaker monsters. However, even a basic level monster could prove deadly if one was caught off guard. The New Revolution, with their exceptional skill and strength, stood as shining examples of the power and determination of humanity in the face of such adversity.