The impact caused by Ash was still sending ripples throughout countless corners of the Realm, and even after an entire week had passed, the shockwaves generated by his actions showed no signs of fading away.
Compared to the courage, excitement, and fanatical enthusiasm people had displayed when the Realm Quest was first announced, the atmosphere surrounding it had changed drastically.
Back then, countless individuals had viewed the Anomaly as nothing more than a walking treasure trove, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that could elevate their status, strength, and future beyond imagination.
Now, however, very few people still held such thoughts.
The reason was simple.
Fear.
After witnessing the terrifying power Ash had displayed firsthand, many of those who were far weaker than him had already abandoned any thoughts of pursuing him, realizing that the reward was meaningless if they lost their lives before ever reaching it.
