Rebirth of the 8th-Circle Mage - Chapter 260 - Paying the Price (6)

The Republic of San Magnolia.

The Card Creator is a very ordinary profession. Simply put, the incumbent seals various kinds of abilities, illusions, images and so on in blank cards for convenience of use.

In the wake of the first wave of shadow creatures, the world was plunged into ruin, a desolate yet enchanted wasteland. Humanity, driven underground, clung to survival while desperately plotting to reclaim their shattered world.But from the abyss of darkness, something miraculous stirred—a mysterious tree, shimmering with ancient power, appeared overnight. It chose only the strongest of heart, those with unbreakable will, gifting them extraordinary abilities. With these powers, humanity rose from the depths, waging war against the shadows.Yet beneath the surface of their heroic deeds lay a hidden rot. Corruption seeped into their ranks, and arrogance clouded their judgment. As their powers grew, so did the whispers of betrayal. The true battle may not be against the creatures lurking in the shadows—but against the darkness festering within their own hearts.A question lingers: When heroes fall, who will rise to take their place?

Kai is a broke streamer with nothing left to lose, except his dying sister.When Ascension Online, the most realistic VR game ever created, launches, he dives in to survive. Views mean money. Money means treatment. Treatment means hope.But during his very first broadcast, something impossible happens.A system awakens.Not part of the game.Not part of the code.A system that rewards influence, impact… and domination.> [Milestone Achieved: First Viral Stream][Reward Granted: SSS-Ranked Skill]The stronger his legend grows online, the stronger he becomes in-game.Then the changes begin to follow him offline.And Kai realizes the terrifying truth,Ascension Online was never just a game.It was a selection.