Synopsis:
The main character awakens to the life everyone dreams of — a mysterious System grants them power, skills, and the promise of greatness. But the dream twists into a nightmare when they discover the truth: they aren’t the hero of this story, but the monster lurking in the shadows. With their humanity slipping and their abilities growing ever darker, they must fight to maintain control over themselves while staying one step ahead of a powerful organization sworn to destroy them. Each choice they make could expose them—or damn them forever.

I didn't know why, but the dagger seemed to fit my hand perfectly. Reluctantly, I pulled my attention away from it and sent the weapon into my inventory. The action was smooth—effortless—and I paused for a moment, quietly marveling at it.


Shaking my head, I moved on to the next crate. Just as I was about to open it, I heard footsteps.


I ducked between two boxes, barely daring to breathe. The footsteps grew closer, followed by the heavy thud of objects being roughly dropped onto the floor. Slowly, I peeked out.


A short humanoid figure was stacking boxes.


Either I had a system, or this was one hell of a fever dream. And if it was real—this wasn't fun. I did not enjoy being thrown into dangerous dungeons, and if that wasn't clear, System, you'd better take the hint.


Before I could spiral any further, a sharp pain exploded in my leg.


I clamped my hand over my mouth, strangling the scream before it escaped. I froze as one of the goblins spoke.


My heart pounded harder as the footsteps turned toward my hiding place. Then—another jolt of pain.


A massive rat had sunk its teeth into my leg.


I tried to shake it off, but the damn thing held on for dear life. Panic surged—then instinct kicked in. Remembering the dagger, I flicked my hand, pulling it from my inventory.


With a clumsy slash, the rat finally let go. It hit the ground, a bloody gash torn into its side. I stabbed down, ending its frantic attempt to escape.


I spun around, dagger raised, heart pounding like a war drum. I waited—tense and ready—for the goblin to round the corner and discover me.


I didn't know what I would do if it did.


"Hey! Get over here, shithead. We've got to drop the food off."


Relief washed over me as the footsteps retreated. After several long seconds, I peeked out again. When I saw nothing, I finally let out a shaky breath.


Then, a blue screen appeared before my eyes.


[Host combat ability has been deemed unacceptable.]


Chapter 5 - Is that a goblin?