The Torch [Progression LitRPG Adventure]

With debt slavery looming all but inevitable after a catastrophic expedition, Toren learns of an opportunity to join a crown-sponsored colonization of new lands. Lured by the possibility to earn forgiveness for his debts, he gambles away his levels and Profession for a chance to meet the recruitment requirement: a gold-rarity trait. Returned to level 1, can he survive in untamed lands long enough to earn the needed contribution credits? —June 2023 Community Magazine Contest— Writing prompt: “Mirrors can't eat people.” ***Note: This story does have traumatic situations and depictions of violence. I've tried to be vague within the descriptions, but the content is still not age approriate for young children and probably closer to PG13. [participant in the Royal Road Writathon challenge]