The Shadow Nexus Online

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Chapter 22: The Merchant Ship & Rio's Power Awakeing

Vermillion Haven was a sight to behold. The port city stretched far and wide, its docks teeming with life. Merchants shouted from their stalls, haggling over exotic goods, while sailors hauled crates of cargo onto massive ships. The salty breeze carried the scent of the sea, mingling with the aroma of roasted fish and spices from nearby food stands.

Rio guided Shadowfang through the cobblestone streets, his eyes scanning the vibrant chaos around him. He had expected a bustling city, but this… this was a melting pot of cultures, adventurers, and mystery.

"Vermillion Haven…" he murmured, dismounting and leading Shadowfang toward the stables. "This place feels like the gateway to the world."

As he secured the horse, a sudden ping echoed in his mind, followed by a familiar blue screen flashing before his eyes.

> [Stat Upgrade Available]

You have 50 unused stat points. Would you like to allocate them?

Rio blinked, momentarily stunned. "I completely forgot about my stat system…" His heart pounded with excitement. This was a chance to grow stronger before his real journey even began.

He mentally accessed the stat menu, his eyes narrowing as he considered his options.

Strength: 50 points

Agility: 45 points

Endurance: 40 points

Magic: 35 points

"I need to be faster and stronger… but endurance will help me survive longer fights. And I can't neglect magic if I'm going to face demons."

After a moment of thought, he allocated his points:

> Strength: +20

Agility: +15

Endurance: +10

Magic: +5

A wave of power surged through his body, his muscles tensing as if they had been forged in fire. His senses sharpened—he could hear the distant chatter of sailors and the rhythmic crashing of waves with clarity. His reflexes felt heightened, his body lighter, and his grip stronger.

"Whoa…" Rio clenched his fist, feeling the raw strength coursing through his veins. "This… is incredible."

Before he could fully process the change, another notification appeared.

> New Ability Unlocked: Shadow Storage

You can now store and retrieve items from a pocket dimension of darkness.

Rio's breath caught. "A storage ability?" He instinctively willed the dagger at his waist to vanish—and in an instant, it disappeared, consumed by a swirling shadow.

"That's… insane." He smirked, summoning the dagger back into his hand with ease. "This will come in handy."

With his newfound strength and an arsenal of abilities at his disposal, Rio was ready. But there was still one task ahead—finding a ship that would take him to the Elven Continent.

As he strode toward the bustling docks, determination burned in his eyes. The journey had only just begun, and already, the tides of fate were shifting in his favor.

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