《[Untitled]》 Prologue It was a regular sunny day, as is to be expected in the middle of an average summer, and I was brimming with excitement. The town elders had called a meeting without there being an emergency, something unheard of these past few generations. All of us have roles to play, jobs to do. Nothing changes, even the weather is predictable, with each Sunday ironically being the only day with rain possible, at least in summer. In winter Sundays are indeed sunny days. So of course, it was quite exciting when there was a change. No-one seems to know what¡¯s going on as I rush to the town centre. Overhearing many conversations, they seem to be just as excited and confused by this change. The run to the town centre is a short one, and upon reaching it I am faced with half the town already there while the other half are still coming. Although I had rushed to try and find a good place to stand, I can tell this is no longer feasible. Estimating another five or so minutes before the rest of the town arrive, I look around for a possible vantage point. As my eyes swept familiar buildings, I realise how little I have actually paid attention to them. With some experience in climbing, gained from climbing trees, I can see many possible routes to climb I had never thought of before. Although there are many possibilities, only one really stands out that I believe will give me a good view, the Inn right across from the town hall and the balcony the elders are on. Although the building is only three stories and I¡¯ve climbed taller trees in the forest, climbing a building is very different. Rather than following an almost natural progression of places to hold and step, I am constantly having to search for good spots. This looked much simpler from further away, but after climbing past windows and using dodgy planks to climb, I finally reach the top. From here I have an unobstructed view of the town centre while the sounds still manage to project to me. All that¡¯s left is to wait a few minutes for the elders to begin their speech. ¡°Welcome all, I¡¯m glad you could make it on such short notice. Although this event is unprecedented, the changes to come will cause even more disruption to our schedules.¡± The first elder began, eliciting a murmur from the crowd. ¡°Silence please.¡± The second elder continued, ¡°We believe the time of prophecy is upon us. Beings from another world, looking exactly like denizens of this one but with capacities far beyond ours, are going to arrive.¡± At his words, there was an uproar amongst the crowd. Shouting could be heard, with the most frequent questions being ¡°What prophecy?¡± ¡°Who?¡± and even ¡°Will I need to share my house?¡± Motioning to the crowd for quiet, the first elder spoke as if ignoring the shouting. ¡°Due to our deities wishing to give us a chance against those who could become invaders, we are being given a chance. The deities will look at our souls and give us an Aether construct to improve our growth. What this means, I cannot say. All I know is our roles will be improved. Tomorrow morning you will awaken with these improvements. But for now, go about your lives. We will decide things as necessary.¡± With that, the elders retreated back inside, ignoring the almost rioting crowd. Seeing as nothing exciting was going to happen afterwards, I quickly climbed back down. Looking around once on the ground, I quickly head off without attracting attention. Although I have lived in this town for many years, I never had a role. Without a role, many of the townspeople looked down on me. This also means I am unlikely to get much out of whatever the elders spoke about today. I ran back to my ¡®hideout,¡¯ simply a small hollow in a tree where I leave my stuff. It¡¯s concealed by a small boulder that is easy enough for me to crawl past. Although not the most luxurious of homes, it is enough for me. After making sure everything is still in place, I crawl onto my bed of leaves and sleep. I don¡¯t have much to do these days beyond manual labour, so there¡¯s no real reason for me to be doing anything right now. Before I know it, it¡¯s dawn and the birds who reside in the tree above me are waking me up. The first thing I notice is a strange box in front of me, with writing I can barely decipher. In my shock, I shout ¡°What the fuck!¡± which succeeds in startling the birds and scaring them off.
Congratulations!
In order to prepare you for the coming of the [Heroes], you have been awarded a [Title]:
[ERROR]:[ROLE] Unavailable, no [Title] Applicable
Evidently, something has gone wrong. This box was followed by a few others, passing too quickly for me to properly understand.
[ERROR] Detected: Attempting to Resolve
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[ERROR] Identified, Possible Resolutions Found. Listing
Resolution [1]: Apply [ROLE] Retroactively
Resolution [2]: Forgo [Title]
Resolution [3]: Remove source of [ERROR]
Resolution [4]: Apply RANDOM [Title]
Analysing Possible Resolutions¡­
All Resolutions Equally Plausible, Checking for Another Resolution¡­
Another Resolution Found:
Resolution [5]: Create New [Title]
Analysing Possible Resolutions¡­
Resolution [5] Most Plausible, Applying¡­
Creating [Title]
Situation: No [Title] Applicable
Cause: No [Role]
Subject: Name: [Unnamed] Race: [ERROR] Age: [15] YEARS
[ERROR]: [ERROR] Detected. Process Paused
Attempting to Resolve Race [ERROR]
Solution Found: Race = Half Human / Half Golem
[ERROR]: Human + Golem IMPOSSIBLE
Resolving [ERROR]: Making Exception. Applied Retroactively
Further [ERROR]: Name = BLANK
[ERROR] STATUS = INCONSEQUENTIAL: Ignoring
Proceeding with [TITLE] Creation
Creating [Title]
Situation: No [Title] Applicable
Cause: No [Role]
Subject: Name: [Unnamed] Race: [Human/Golem] Age: [15] YEARS
Analysing¡­
Resolving¡­
[Title] Created: [Untitled]
Reprocessing Initial Statement¡­
Applying Aether-Soul Construct¡­
Complete: Publishing Screen
Congratulations!
In order to prepare you for the coming of the [Heroes], you have been awarded a [Title]:
[Untitled]
[ANOMALY] Detected: Ability to Perceive Non-Designated Screens : Analysing
[ANOMALY] = INCONSEQUENTIAL : Adding to [Title]
Processes Complete: Logged.
Now with a slight headache and a strange feeling enveloping me, I read the only box still visible to me. I have a [Title] now, likely what the elders were talking about yesterday. Chapter 1 The first thing I tried to do was make sense of my [Title]. Unfortunately, I had no idea what to do other than try to think on what a normal title is and what this one might do. Given that regular titles are essentially a way of identifying who someone is, how important they are and that kind of thing, I assume these are similar. Annoyingly, this rumination provides no real answer to my question, so I decide on heading to the town again. Reaching the town, I find that it¡¯s empty except for a few people starting their morning chores. Seeing nothing to do, I settle in for a wait by climbing to the same vantage point I had yesterday. Time passes by, and about three hours after dawn the town centre is filled again. This time, only the first elder is on the balcony, where he begins to address the town. ¡°Good Morning everyone, I hope you are well. I do not know much about what has changed, other than the fact we have been given [Title]s. In my dream I heard a whisper telling me to say ¡®status¡¯ with the intent of knowing myself, and I would learn more about myself and the [Title]. I have done this, and my [Title] as [First Elder] allows me to make decisions on behalf of the town. Although my power is restricted to being a vote due to the other four elders, I can see this will be beneficial. There are also numbers, but I do not understand what they mean. I urge you all to discover the details of your [Title]s and then come tell us about them.¡± With that the other four elders came out the door of the town hall with chairs, books and quills. Doing as I was told, I speak ¡°Status,¡± and am amazed at the box that shows up:
Character Screen
Name: [Unnamed] Race: Half Human/Golem Age: 16 [Title]: [Untitled]
Attributes
Strength: 16 Dexterity: 11 Constitution: 10
Intelligence: 12 Wisdom: 11 Charisma: 9
Status
Health: 100% Mana: 100% Stamina: 100%
Effects
Evolution - Postponed
There are two things that really stand out for me, the postponed evolution and my race. I think they are connected, as I¡¯d always thought I was just a human. I¡¯m also slightly surprised I¡¯m unnamed, as I expected whatever this thing is to have picked or found something for me. As there¡¯s nothing I can do about it now, I decide to ignore it and move one. I don¡¯t understand how I¡¯m supposed to find out what my title does, so I stop trying and climb back down. Strangely, upon reaching the ground another box appears:
[Skill] Learned: [Climbing]
Level: [Novice 1/10] Effects: [1%] Faster Climbing Speed [1%] Easier to Plot Climbing Routes
I have no idea what to make of this. I am fairly confident I already had some skill with climbing, so this just doesn¡¯t make sense to me. I suppose it¡¯s got something to do with the sudden appearance of these boxes, but I hope this isn¡¯t going to change our lives too much. Seeing as I wasn¡¯t figuring it out on my own, I head over to the four elders. Hopefully they have some idea of what¡¯s going on. Unfortunately, there is a large crowd, probably three quarters of everyone at the announcement are still milling about in front of the elders. I guess those not here have had their [Title]s recorded. As the crowd shrinks, I overhear some people discussing their [Title]s. The ones I can most remember are [Farmer] due to frequency, [Blacksmith] from a loud voice and I think [Town Guard] from a few people. Eventually it¡¯s my turn to talk to the Elder regarding my title. ¡°Greetings citizen. Please state your name, [Title] and what it does.¡± ¡°Well I don¡¯t have a name currently, and my [Title] is [Untitled]. I don¡¯t know what it does.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s deal with your name in a minute, first to find your [Title]¡¯s effects, open your status and focus on the [Title]. Some people have found it easier to say ¡®details¡¯ or ¡®[Title]¡¯ while focussing. Go ahead and do that now.¡± Following instructions, I open my status and try to focus on the [Title]. It feels weird at first, like I¡¯m looking into something I can¡¯t understand but it is being forced into my head, before another box appears.
[Untitled]
Effects: No Restrictions on [Skill]s No Benefits for [Skill]s Ability to Perceive Non-Designated Screens ???
Anything is possible. Your [Title] does not limit nor promote your growth.
All Paths are open to you
WARNING: TIER Assessed: Semi-Divine
WARNING STATUS = Ignored: TIER Accounted For
Following a strangely pink box, two regular boxes flash by without me being able to read them, before the details of my title are once again shown. My initial thoughts are that it is completely useless. No Benefits, and I can see boxes. Although I suppose I should call them screens now. I relay this information to the elder, who looks surprised, before writing it down then moving on. ¡°Now, we need to do something about your name. I assume you¡¯re an orphan or something, seeing as you have no name nor parents I know of. Any nicknames, or ways of identifying yourself?¡± ¡°No, never really gotten to know anyone for a name to be necessary. Moved around a lot.¡± ¡°That is unfortunate. Well based on your race, you might have an idea for a name.¡± ¡°Maybe, let¡¯s just leave it for now. Get everyone else sorted first.¡± ¡°Of course.¡± With those parting words from the elder, I wandered away. The crowd is much smaller now. There is probably a quarter of the town. Having completed what I went to the town centre for, I move on to my next job. As I have no role, I tend to help with those who are struggling in exchange for food or other necessities. Today I am looking to help on a farm to the west of our town. It¡¯s only a short walk, and I barely have time to think about the changes before I arrive. I can see the farmer standing at his fields, looking out upon them as though he sees them for the first time. As I approach, he turns around and flashes me a grin. ¡°Mornin lad, are you ready for some hard work today?¡± ¡°Of course John, I¡¯m always ready to earn my bread.¡± I reply enthusiastically, even if I¡¯m apprehensive about hard labour. ¡°That¡¯s the spirit!¡± He says before turning back to his fields. ¡°With this [Title] of mine, things may be a bit different. I¡¯ve got a bonus to farming, and it allows me to know what will be good for the farm.¡± He pauses while looking at the field, seemingly in contemplation. ¡°I think it¡¯s best to plant Millet for now. Although it¡¯s a bit late, the foxtail millet should be fine. Reckon you can help out with this one?¡± Before I can respond, a strange box or screen appears.
WARNING: Potential Quest: Analysing Conversation¡­
Quest Possible: Quest is Relevant: Issuing Quest¡­
Quest Received: Farming
Help [Farmer] John with his Farming
Help the [Farmer] until he says you¡¯re done.
Rewards: Food, Reputation
¡°John,¡± I say, slightly unnerved, ¡°what is this?¡± ¡°Lad, I¡¯ll be honest with you, I haven¡¯t got a clue. I¡¯m not sure that it changes anything, but are you still willing?¡± He asks, also surprised. ¡°Sure. What¡¯s the worst that could happen?¡± Upon the conclusion of our conversation, we collect our tools and seeds then head to the fields. First tilling the soil slightly, then sowing the seeds. Although not exactly back breaking, the work is intense. We didn¡¯t stop for a break at any stage, so a good eight hours or so was spent in the sun farming. While working, we were discussing things like the [Title]s, the town and even local gossip. Apparently, the blacksmith is trying to court the barmaid, but she¡¯s too shy. Once the task was finished, we walked back to the farmhouse, where John thanked me for the day¡¯s work. To our surprise from forgetfulness, a screen appeared in front of both John and I. Strangely I can see John¡¯s this time.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.
Quest Complete: Farming
Help [Farmer] John with his Farming
You have finished a day¡¯s work at John¡¯s farm!
Rewards: Food, Reputation
Quest Complete: Farming
A Quest you have Issued to a Fellow Native was Completed!
[Unnamed] finished a day¡¯s work at your farm!
Rewards Owed: Food, Reputation
Strangely, John had a very similar screen to mine, except his told him I finished the quest. He invites me inside to claim my rewards, and I gladly accept. Food is always an issue, and with no role in this community I have no easy way of acquiring any. Entering the building, John heads to what appears to be a rudimentary storage facility and pulls out a sack. Reaching into the sack, he pulls out a small cloth packet. ¡°I don¡¯t have any bread for you, but I do have these. A bit of an experiment you see, dried grains. Just pour into a bowl, add water and you¡¯re good. I¡¯ve tried to fill these up so only one is needed per meal. It¡¯s bland, so fruits are good to have with it, but you won¡¯t go hungry.¡± He explains with an apologetic look. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s fine. Probably better than bread anyway. Thank you.¡± My voice has false enthusiasm, but I understand how difficult farming is. Especially seeing as I¡¯d just done eight ours. I turn to leave, but a screen shows up that takes my attention.
ALERT: [Skill] Threshold Reached: Farming : Analysing level¡­
Analysis Complete: Approximate Level: [Novice 6/10]
[Skill] Learned: [Farming]
Level: [Novice 6/10] Effects: [6%] Faster Farming Related Tasks [6%] Increased Yields
[Farming] [Sub-Skill]s Learned:
[Tilling] [Novice 5/10] [5%] Increased Chance to Sprout
[Sowing] [Novice 2/10] [2%] Increase Chance to Sprout
Although odd, I am not too surprised about these as I had already gained a skill from climbing. What does surprise me is the level of the skill, and the fact there are [Sub-Skill]s. I guess the level is from previous experience, as I have helped out on farms before, so it is probably just acknowledging that I know what I¡¯m doing except within this new¡­ system? Is that a good description of this phenomena that seems to have changed and ordered our world? Questioning the changes aside, it is oddly satisfying to see a quantifiable measurement of our abilities. I am sure that there will be some kind of further rewards based on the skills we obtain, but this eludes me at the moment due to a lack of information. I bid farewell to John, and walk the relatively short distance to my hideout. Passing through the town centre I hear quiet conversations. These appear to be focussed on a rumour that powerful or rare titles have distinct colours, going from blue to purple. Apparently, there¡¯s also a white and black, white being essentially powerless and black being an affront to the deities due to its power. Where people found this out I¡¯ll never know, but I hear something about a [Child] title. Which extreme it¡¯s at I¡¯ll never know, as children are a rarity around here, and those that are found tend to be shut-ins. Upon reaching my hideout, I drop off the sack with my grains, pick up a bucket and head out again to collect water. I have a choice of east to a creek or north-west to the village well. As the creek is within the outskirts of the forest I am slightly apprehensive, but I¡¯d rather not visit the town for the third time today. To the forest it is. While there normally isn¡¯t an issue, hence why I¡¯m comfortable having my hideout on the outskirts, there is always a possibility that a wolf or other predator gets hungry and decides to visit in in case of a meal. According to local legends, there was once a mutated wolf that had its pack stalk the forest at the creek, treating it as a border. This was far before my time, but it won¡¯t hurt to be cautious. Reaching the creek, I look around to the best of my ability. As I expected, there¡¯s nothing I can see, but there might be something nearby, so I finish up quickly and walk back with a fast pace. Dusk is fast approaching when I get to my hideout. I pour some water into a bowl and add grains for a quick meal. It doesn¡¯t taste great, but it seems to be at least somewhat nutritious, and I manage to get it all down with generous gulps of water. I protect the food and water with a waterproof hide I had traded a fair amount of my collected wealth for, then settle down on the leaves I use as a bed to sleep. Before I can drift off, another window appears in my vision.
Resuming Evolution¡­
WARNING: Unknown Heritage : Attempting to Resolve¡­
Possible Resolution Due to [Untitled]: Choice : Aplying
Due to your [Title] and Unknown Heritage, you may choose your current Heritage!
Straw Golem Low Evolution Potential
Clay Golem Medium Evolution Potential
Wood Golem (Further Options Available) Medium Evolution Potential
Stone Golem (Further Options Available) Medium Evolution Potential
Metal Golem (Further Options Available) Medium Evolution Potential
Gem Golem (Further Options Available) Low Evolution Potential
Flesh Golem (Further Options Available) High Evolution Potential
Elemental Golem (Further Options Available) High Evolution Potential
Although making a choice while delirious on excitement is never a good idea, I couldn¡¯t help myself.
Due to your [Title] and Mostly Unknown Heritage you may choose your current Heritage!
WoodWrath A golem filled with the fury of the forest
HeartWood A golem whose purpose is protection, generally protection of the forest
Huorn A golem born from an intelligent tree
Wooden Spriggan (Further Options Available) Spirit infused wooden golems
With another choice, I couldn¡¯t help but be interested in the final option more than the others.
Due to your [Title] and Mostly Unknown Heritage you may choose your current Heritage!
Spriggan Worker A spriggan who works for the good of the swarm
Spriggan Warrior (Further Options Available) A spriggan who fights for the good of the swarm
Spriggan Beast (Further Options Available) A spriggan with beast qualities and shape
Spriggan Ruler (Further Options Available) A designated ruler of the spriggan swarm
This is perhaps the hardest choice I have faced so far. I¡¯m sure that all four have their uses, where a worker may be good for building, warrior for fighting as you would expect, it is the final two that really catch my eye. Both are interesting possibilities, and I am hesitant to devote myself to one. It comes down to a theoretical coin toss. As I have no coins, nor does anyone in the town, I take a piece of bark and carve a ¡®1¡¯ and ¡®2¡¯ on opposing sides and throw it. With ¡®1¡¯ designated as a beast, and ¡®2¡¯ for ruler, time seems to slow down while it falls. 2
Due to your Mostly Unknown Heritage, your heritage must be further designated.
As you have reached a terminating set of branches and your [Title] was abused, the SYSTEM has deigned it appropriate to randomise your result.
Have a nice day!
Well that¡¯s disappointing. Although I have clarification that there is indeed a ¡®System,¡¯ I am mildly upset at the loss of choice. I¡¯m not sure how I abused my title, but it was probably either through my choices always having further options available or by relying on chance for the last one.
Selecting Further Heritage from the Following:
King Queen
Emperor Empress
Chieftain Shaman
Semi-Deity Deity
WARNING: Semi-Divine and Divine Options Detected : Inappropriate : Removing
Selecting Further Heritage from the Following:
King Queen
Emperor Empress
Chieftain Shaman
Random Heritage Selected: Queen
Congratulations, your Heritage has been Unlocked!
Spriggan Queen Spriggans and forest/wood creatures recognise your Royalty Bonus to Charisma and Wisdom ???
As a genderless species, Spriggan Rulers tend to be characterised by the way they rule. Where a King may decide upon aggression, a Queen would prefer diplomacy. Use your birthright well young Queen.
I¡¯m not sure whether this is a good thing or not, but I can¡¯t change it so I might as well use it. This then leaves me with the next choice I need to make.
Options for [Evolution] Possible: Due to [Untitled] Choice Allowed: Awaiting Input¡­
Due to your [Title], you are allowed a choice for your Evolution!
Spriggan¡¯s Spirit Allows use of Nature/Life Spells
Spriggan¡¯s Armour Improves Skin resilience. Adds resistance to bludgeoning
Spriggan¡¯s Anger Allows use of [Nature¡¯s Wrath]
Burned Spriggan A spriggan that has faced its mortality and come out changed. Increased vulnerability to flames, Allows use of Death Spells
Projection of Nature By tying your essence to Nature, Death and Decay may be staved off
Spriggan of the Woods More than usual, Plants will bend to your will (Path towards Kingship)
Spriggan of Nature Slightly more than usual, Nature will heed your requests
Spriggan Form From your natural state as a Human, you may take the form of a Spriggan (Queen Variant)
Photosynthesis Regain Health, Mana and Stamina from the sun
WARNING: Semi-Divine Options Available : Querying SYSTEM
Options Acceptable : Ignoring WARNING
Tempted as I am by most of these, especially Spriggan of Nature, I believe that preventing death may be the best option for me. I know that from my [Title] no paths are blocked to me, so I don¡¯t think the ones that allow me to do something will be impossible for me to earn. Although I am gambling on my [Title], [Projection of Nature] is probably what I would have chosen even without the possibility of my [Title].
Your Evolution has been chosen.
By becoming a Projection of Nature, death and decay will no longer be a major concern. Tying yourself to nature may have been wise, but it is in your best interest to protect nature now.
Proceeding with Evolution¡­
Chapter 2 As I awaken, the only thing I know is pain. It¡¯s incredibly difficult to explain it, but every part of my body feels violated painfully. Maybe with needles, but smaller than the ones tailors use. The pain was so overwhelming that I can¡¯t concentrate on the screens that appear before me. The birds also escape my notice, even though they are staring at me. The birds that should have been an alarm for me are just staring. When the pain fades, which only occurs after what feels like a lifetime, I am acutely aware of the fact there is a large flock of birds staring at me. It might not be immediately obvious why this is so shocking, until you consider the fact my hideout is a hollow within a tree, and that the inside remains dry while it is raining. Shaking myself out of a stupor as questions about the birds arise, I look around for familiar landmarks. Turns out, I am right next to the stream. While not a particularly long walk, it is still concerning I ended up this far away. I decide to pay attention to the screens later, and make my way back to my hideout. As I haven¡¯t made any promises to help anyone today, I choose to just relax. The grains should last me for a short while still. Once I have reached the safety of my hideout, I lay down on my bed to investigate the screens I had ignored.
Evolution Complete! Spriggan Queen ¨C Projection of Nature
Connected to Nature Nature Magic is [10%] Easier [10%] Increased Resistance to Death Magic
Essence of Nature You may link yourself to a place of Nature, where you will return after your body dies.
Your body has evolved to a mostly-human hybrid of human and spriggan. Although no major physiological changes have occurred, you are now more in synch with nature.
[Skill] Learned: [Essence of Nature]
Level: [Apprentice 1/10] Effects: You may link to [1] place of Nature Upon body death, you may reform at this place. Warning: A human body will take a [Week] to reform. A Spriggan body will take [8] hours. Upon destruction of the place of nature, another must be linked to for the benefits to continue
[Essence of Nature] [Sub-Skill]s Learned:
[Nature Sight] [Novice 1/10] Ability to detect places of nature
[Essence of Nature] [Sub-Skill]s Learned:
[Reform] [Novice 1/10] May reform your body at a place of power. Current options: Human or Spriggan (Queen)
While the evolution may be concerning, I believe it is just another step towards my future, whatever it may be. Filled with curiosity about my new [Skill] and [Sub-Skill]s, I activate nature sight by speaking it aloud. I don¡¯t know if that is how it works but based on how the character screen works I expect this to. There is a slight vibration in my eyes, and then I feel a slight shift. It is incredibly difficult to explain how it feels, but it is as though something clicked. The first thing I notice with my eyesight are vein-like tendrils of vibrant green spreading throughout the tree I reside in. The tendrils seem to be within the roots and branches, as well as the mostly hollow trunk. In the centre, where all the veins connect to, that also happens to be a meter or so beneath what is currently my floor, is an almost throbbing sphere of green. As I look closely at this sphere, a screen appears.
Place of Nature Found: Ancient Spirit¡¯s Rest - Weak
The history of this place is unknown to you, but it is no coincidence you have found a home here.
While I have no idea what this means, I can probably use my [Essence of Nature] skill to link to this place. I try activating the skill, when another screen shows in my vision.
Place of Nature Found: Ancient Spirit¡¯s Rest - Weak
If you choose to link here you will gain [1] free reform. Proceed?
As I know of no other option to use my [Skill] on, I choose yes. What follows is a strange feeling of interconnectedness with the world as a whole, before the feeling retreats and encompasses only the Rest and I. When the effect passes I am aware of the Rest and it¡¯s needs as well as my own. There is also what feels like a second heartbeat, except separate to me, likely from the Rest. Trying to pay attention to the Rest, I can understand there are things it needs.
Quest Received: Ancient Rest¡¯s Regeneration
You can tell the [Ancient Spirit¡¯s Rest] you have linked to is nearing the end of its life, however you can change this.
Improve the environment of the Rest to increase its power and lifespan. This can be done by improving the [Soil Quality], [Air Quality], [Water Quality], as well as the energy concentration
Rewards: Improved Rest, Nature¡¯s Gratitude, ???
Once again, the system surprised me. This quest seems to be immediately beneficial to me, as an improved Rest will probably help me out. That said, I¡¯m not sure how I¡¯m going to do this. I¡¯m not close enough with anyone from town to really trust them with my problems, but I suppose John would be reasonably knowledgeable as a farmer. Perhaps his [Title] can help too. A decision made, I walk towards John¡¯s farm, passing through the town centre. As I¡¯m walking, a young man falls into pace with me and starts a conversation. ¡°Hi kid, strange times we¡¯re going through, hey?¡± Not bothering to respond, he continues. ¡°Well I¡¯ve got a [Title] that is supposed to help the town, and it¡¯s told me to help you. So, what are you up to?¡± This gives me a slight pause, and I almost miss a step before responding. I contemplate telling the truth, or just telling him I¡¯m trying to help the town, but a part of me thinks neither would be great. ¡°I live in a tree just outside of town. This tree is actually magical and I¡¯m trying to heal it.¡± Now why did I say that? It makes no sense, I was just going to tell him I wanted John¡¯s help with healing a tree. ¡°Ah, this could be interesting. With my [Title] people who live in this town can¡¯t actually lie to me. I suppose the magical tree would be why it¡¯s important for me to help you. Well lead on, I¡¯m sure that I¡¯ll be useful.¡± He says while grinning, making me glad I didn¡¯t tell him the full truth. I guess a lie of omission is a lie, but genuinely thinking the details are irrelevant won¡¯t matter? It doesn¡¯t take long to arrive, and to my surprise the field we planted yesterday has already started sprouting. I can see John in the field, so I shout to get his attention. ¡°Hey John, how are the fields?¡± He looks up in response, seemingly surprised but unconcerned at my appearance. ¡°Hi lad. Come to help today? I wasn¡¯t expecting you.¡± ¡°Might as well, but if I do could you have a look at a tree I¡¯d like to grow?¡± ¡°Sure, that shouldn¡¯t be a problem. Anyway, who¡¯s this you¡¯ve got with you?¡± John asks as he looks at my ¡®companion.¡¯ ¡°Ah yes, hello John! I¡¯m Charles, a soon-to-be-very-important fellow resident of the town. Gotta say, you¡¯re doing wonderfully with this farm. May I recommend you expand further? Your [Title] should help support you.¡± Charles responds in an annoyingly chipper voice. ¡°Well sure, I was considering it. Say, are you going to help out as well?¡± John says, unbothered by this development. ¡°Although not my original intention, I¡¯m sure this would be an acceptable use of my time. Lead on.¡± So, the three of us worked. Charles seems to have no experience or knowledge of farming, so he was only a hindrance. Eventually John told him to look at the sprouting plants for pests and diseases, which managed to keep him occupied for a whole hour before he got bored and left, leaving John and I alone. ¡°Well lad, what¡¯s this about a tree you wanted me to look at?¡± he ventures as we begin packing everything away for the night. ¡°I have been living in a tree, and the system has given me a quest, like the one you gave me yesterday, to help it grow. As you¡¯re a farmer and the only one I feel comfortable talking to, I was hoping you could help.¡± ¡°Well sure, you¡¯ve been a great help, so it¡¯s only right to respond in kind. Let¡¯s just pack everything away, then you can show me to your tree.¡± Taking a bit longer than expected, we walk across town the town centre where Charles once again joins us. He seems content to remain silent, a small blessing to be sure. Once we reach the Rest, John lets out an appreciative whistle while Charles seems unimpressed. ¡°Alright lad, I can see why you wanted me to help her grow. She¡¯s ancient, but I reckon she can be revived. I¡¯m almost scared of what¡¯ll happen.¡± ¡°Is this the tree? Doesn¡¯t seem impressive to me. Perhaps there¡¯s more to it than it appears, but I expected more.¡± Both speak at once, and it is a bit difficult to determine which words belonged to who. Although the annoying voice is Charles, so it wasn¡¯t a real problem. Deciding to ignore Charles for now, I speak to John.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s the idea. I think she can grow to have space in her trunk about the size of a small house, but that will take a while. Anything you can do?¡± ¡°I suppose I could try fertiliser? Might also be a good idea to water it more, but that may be difficult. I¡¯ll get some of the spare fertiliser I have.¡± He says before leaving, while Charles looks annoyed at being ignored. ¡°Okay, I get that this is your home and I¡¯m insulting it, but this is supposed to give the village more power. I¡¯m gonna go do some important stuff with the elders.¡± Thankful for the peace and quiet, I set to work. I activate my [Nature Sight] to see the roots of the tree in order to find a suitable place for a small pond. I figure that rather than set up some kind of watering system, a reservoir may be better in the short term before finding a more permanent solution. Oddly, yet not surprisingly, there are a few roots that head towards the creek. I expected the roots to kind of act like an underground dome, but reaching towards a source of water makes more sense. Which gives me a great idea. I wander over to the creek to survey the land, and see that upstream, towards the north, is a small rise the creek seems to go around. Now I don¡¯t know much about terraforming, but I figure I can divert the creek so that it passes closer to the roots. However there are no rocks around so it must all be done manually. Although I have no real tools, there¡¯s no reason not to use my bowl to dig. I retrieve it, and set to work. Before I can make much, if any, progress, John returns with his fertiliser. I realise now that it¡¯s just a fancy word for manure. The stench finds me long before John does. I have mild concerns for my ability to sleep with this near me. ¡°Alright lad, I brought some spare fertiliser and a few shovels.¡± John slowly wanders into view with a wheelbarrow filled with ¡®fertiliser. ¡°I figure we can bury the fertiliser, should make it easier for the tree to use it.¡± Well I suppose that¡¯s one problem semi solved. We take the shovels and dig holes at places I point out having a higher concentration of roots, thanks to my [Nature Sight] skill. The work lasts a long time, and we are exhausted far before our supple of ¡®fertiliser¡¯ is. After digging many smaller holes and bury the manure, we ended up digging a larger pit behind the entrance to the Rest where we deposit the remainder. I ask John to borrow his shovel for the next few days, which he agrees to before leaving to check on his farm. Rather than waste my time working when I could be sleeping, I rinse my bowl and make a quick meal before heading to bed. Instead of my usual fall asleep then wake up, I am treated to what I believe to be a lucid dream. Or at least until this thing decides to speak. ¡°So, you¡¯re the new guardian.¡± By thing, I do mean thing. It appears to be taller than six feet high, probably reaching an extra four or five inches. It has no skin so to speak, but is covered in what seems to be a very durable bark. Where there are gaps, entwined branches can be seen when I strain my eyes and look past the otherworldly vibrant green glow. Even the voice seems out of place, as though each syllable takes a monumental effort, sounding raspy and emphasis on the ¡®s¡¯ sounds ¡°Such a shame when you¡¯re not recognised. Even my race seems unfamiliar. Tell me, what are you?¡± At this I am shaken out of my shock, as though I was splashed with water. ¡°I am a human. Oh, and half Spriggan Queen I think. But that was recent.¡± ¡°Spriggan Queen? Interesting. I never knew a spriggan and human could mate. I suppose it¡¯s no surprise. We Nature elementals are fond of the saying, ¡®Life finds a way.¡¯ Do you know your lineage?¡± ¡°I have no knowledge of anything to do with this stuff. I think I only became a spriggan today.¡± ¡°Nonsense, perhaps it was only awoken yesterday, but you must have always been part spriggan. I suppose that doesn¡¯t matter at the moment. I must see if you are worthy. Ready yourself.¡± Taking a few steps back yet never moving its eyes away from me, it stands in what I assume to be a fighting stance and waits. I am unsure how to respond, so I take a few steps back and try to mimic its stance. Before I know it, I am flat on my back. ¡°Unacceptable. We have much work to do. Please tell me what skills you have.¡± ¡°Skills? Do you mean [Essence of Nature], [Nature Sight], [Reform], [Farming]?¡± ¡°What? So young and you are linked to nature? You truly must be a young queen. I can guess what farming and nature sight are, and based on your queenship I expect reform to be simple enough, but what do you mean by essence of nature?¡± ¡°It allows me link myself to a place of nature.¡± ¡°Yes, that makes sense. Things must have changed. What combat skills do you have?¡± ¡°Combat skills? None. I spent my life either wandering or helping out the towns I live in.¡± ¡°This is disappointing. I will teach you the basics of being a ranger, as I believe this will be most beneficial to a young Spriggan Ruler.¡± And with that, my lessons began. It was nothing too complex, but I was taught how to use my natural rule over nature to ¡®persuade¡¯ living things to aid me. Whether muffling my footsteps or camouflaging me, there was an incredible ability for stealth. I was taught basic dagger techniques as well as archery to allow me some combat potential for the cause of ¡®protecting the Rest.¡¯ This was furthered by teaching me to hunt, with a strict restriction on not commanding creatures and animals to their death. When I asked for an explanation I was told it was a path that lead to Kingship rather than Queenship. This was expanded on by teaching me to properly skin and butcher animals, as well as basic yet effective ways of coking my catches. Although, hunting and butchering don¡¯t work too well with creatures made entirely out of bark and wood. When I question it, who turns out to be a she, about how this works, she only responded by telling me all places of power have an incredible function due to the aether they attract. The time spent there felt like almost days, yet upon waking I found only a single night had passed, where I was greeted by more screens.
[Skill]s Learned:
[Skill] Level Effects
Stealth [Novice 1/10] [1%] Decreased chance of being noticed (Passive) [5%] Decreased chance of being noticed (Active)
Dagger Mastery [Novice 1/10] [1%] Increased damage with daggers [1%] Increased speed with daggers
Bow Mastery [Novice 1/10] [1%] Increased damage with bows [1%] Increased accuracy with bows
Skinning [Novice 1/10] [1%] Increased product quality [1%] Increased skinning speed
Butchering [Novice 1/10] [1%] Increased product quality [1%] Increased butchering speed
[Skill] Learned:
Nature Manipulation [Novice 4/10] [4%] Increased Manipulation Area [4%] Increased Manipulation Power [4%] Increased Manipulation Control
Combination [Sub-Skill] Learned:
[Natural Stealth] [Novice 1/10] When manipulating Nature, [10%] Decreased chance of being noticed
Seeing these screens, there¡¯s a major issue with a few of them I¡¯ll have to address. I have no weapons. Sure, it¡¯s nice to have these skills, but if I can¡¯t use them then why bother. Although this is something I can put off until later. Instead of waiting around a bit longer, contemplating the issues I am currently facing, I take the shovel I borrowed and head to the small rise upstream. Should be much easier to dig than with a bowl. Nothing stands out on the way, everything is as peaceful as you would expect close to a human town. Upon my arrival, I see not much has changed. There is a small divergence of the creek that quickly joins with the old one again, so I have my work cut out for me. So I dig. Initially I just throw the dirt onto the rise, causing a split creek with little water flowing either way, but I then decide to fill the old one with the dirt, at least slightly, to dissuade the water flowing that way. The majority of the day flies by as I work, and it is eventually completed. There is slight movement in the soil approximately where the roots are, so activating the skill I notice them actively reaching for the water. Soon enough they are visible to my regular eyesight, where the ends split and form a mesh across the bottom half of the creek. This would surprise me, where it not for the fact I could feel the semi-sentience of the Rest searching for a way to absorb the water more efficiently.
Quest Update: Ancient Rest¡¯s Regeneration
You can tell the [Ancient Spirit¡¯s Rest] you have linked to is nearing the end of its life, however you can change this.
Your actions have increased the [Water Quality] and [Soil Quality], Qualifying you for the rewards. Further rewards may be gained by improving [Air Quality] and the energy concentration.
Rewards Gained: Improved Rest, Nature¡¯s Gratitude
Rewards Possible: Improved Rest, ???
The screen surprised me, as originally I thought rewards only came after the Quest was complete, yet I have been rewarded. Before interacting with the screens I walk back to the Rest. Once I arrive, I dismiss the screen telling me of the quest, when the next shown up. Assuming it is the reward, I pay attention.
Analysing Rewards¡­ UNIQUE Opportunity Detected¡­ Applying¡­
WARNING: Interference by {REDACTED DUE TO TITLE}¡­
Interference Mitigated¡­ Proceeding
Due to your [Title] and Race, you are able to direct the Evolution of [Ancient Spirit¡¯s Rest]
A privilege normally reserved for those who have dedicated their life to nature, you have access to power way beyond what is reasonable. Do not abuse this, as there are things worse than Death.
Bastion of Nature Nature has [10%] increased potency in the area, plants and creatures experience a [100%] growth rate increase
Entwined Guardians The Rest may summon guardians to defend it. Guardians depend on environment and power
Accelerated Growth The Rest experiences [7] days of rapidly accelerated growth
Improved Core The [Core] of the Rest is improved, increasing ambient energy and the Rest¡¯s functions
Greater Link A greater link can be established, allowing [1] extra reform and expanded mental connection
{SENTIENCE} The Rest may embark on an alternate evolution path, initially by gaining sentience.
WARNING: Interference still detected : Resolving¡­
Analysed Interference : Within Acceptable Parameters : Ignoring¡­
Suffice to say, the options shock me, and the explanation or threat are actually scary. I feel quite out of my depth here, and the ominous message makes it worse. Bastion of Nature seems to be a good choice for the long run, but I don¡¯t think it is appropriate here. Entwined Guardians are probably a safe decision. Accelerated Growth seems to be a reasonable short-term choice, but I don¡¯t think that would be fair to the Rest. Greater Link would be immediately beneficial to me, however I don¡¯t feel it is necessary at the moment. {SENTIENCE} just seems strange, and doesn¡¯t follow the rest of the system in appearance, so I immediately don¡¯t trust it. Finally, Improved Core will go towards finishing the Quest I have, so could be beneficial to me that way, and it will increase the Rest¡¯s functions, so it is likely a weaker version of all other options. My choice decided, I mentally select [Improved Core]
Evolution of [Ancient Spirit¡¯s Rest] Selected: Improved Core
Although a disappointing lack of risk-taking, WE are pleased with your choice, if not your reasoning. Go with OUR Blessing.
Interference Detected¡­ Acceptable
EVOLUTION Initiated¡­
The screens gave way to more of them, these ones being the most surprising of the day.
[Skill] Learned: [Digging]
Level: [Novice 5/10] Effects: [5%] Increase to digging speed
Congratulations! Blessing Received!
The {REDACTED} have blessed you. What reasons they have are their own. Be warned, power will always come at a cost.
You have gained an upgrade to your [Reform] skill: the ability to shift between your forms at will, without the use of a place of power.
Congratulations! Blessing Recieved!
Nature has recognised your actions, and is thankful towards you.
[25%] Increase power to Nature related [Abilities] and [Skills]
Chapter 3 ¡­Thank¡­ you¡­ I hear, almost whispered in a slow, elderly sounding voice. I look around thinking someone is nearby, yet no-one stands out. The volume makes me think he is right next to me, but with no-one around I am left puzzled. ¡­Do ¡­ not¡­ think¡­ too¡­ hard¡­ I¡­ Am¡­ The¡­ Rest¡­ I hear the voice again, and it is almost painful trying to listen to it as it lasts over fifteen seconds. At least this clears up what is going on, I assume the Rest gained some form of sentience from the improved core. ¡­Yes¡­ That¡­ And¡­ More¡­ I am immediately concerned by the fact it appears the Rest can hear my thoughts, but the possibilities excite me. ¡­We¡­ Are¡­ Connected¡­ Rest¡­ I¡­ Will¡­ Explain¡­ Although I am once again cautious of this voice, I decide to trust it. Perhaps it can tell me more of my situation. Besides, there¡¯s also the fact the voice is literally in my head. My course of action decided, I lay down to sleep. This time, there¡¯s a difference. Rather than an abrupt awareness of another place, I slowly come to in a bed similar to mine, but softer. Sitting up and looking around, there isn¡¯t much of note. I am on the only feature, but the walls look like the wood of the Rest, albeit much larger. There is also a proper doorway rather than a small hole I have to half crawl through. ¡°Ah, good to see you asleep again¡± I hear the same raspy voice as the last time I was transported during my sleep. ¡°I am glad you were intelligent about this. It would be a shame if another Queen embarked upon the road to Kingship. Nonetheless, your choice has allowed the Rest to expand its capabilities in all directions. With a deep connection, you may guide it. Walk with me.¡± With the strangely abrupt end to our conversation, I walk outside. Initially, nothing seems different. Then I remember the area we were in before was nothing substantial, more a suggestion of a place, whereas I can see trees in all directions for hundreds of meters before a white fog cuts off vision. I also notice the tree we came out of is massive, reaching what I believe to be almost a hundred meters into the sky before leaves start to appear and block my sight. There also seems to be the same fog, but it is wispy and difficult to perceive. ¡°As you may see, the major function of the Rest is a peaceful area to do as you wish while you rest. This can be harnessed many ways, but the most common is training. I do not know what the situation is like for you, but based on your complete lack of fighting prowess in our last interaction, it is not a perilous life. Now, as the guardian of the Rest, you may choose how to spend your time. I recommend we train your fighting.¡± After the seemingly half-assed explanation, I can only agree with her. I don¡¯t know what else I can do in here, and I am sure some further combat training will help me. One thing that bugs me is how long we have. ¡°How long can I stay in here?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know the exact time, but the last one would have been close to four days, so with the upgraded core the time dilation will have increased. I expect close to a month, if not more. It depends on how well the Rest can sustain itself, as well as how much your mind can take.¡± It seems as though I will have plenty of time here. Once again, my training begins. The day is divided into three parts, where the first third is spent on the basics of fighting. Rather than focussing on daggers as we did last time, there is a rotation with swords, daggers and spears. Occasionally the sword or spear training will include shield use, and the dagger training will have a sword too for basic dual wielding. The second third of the day is more practical, day to day things. We train hunting, skinning, farming, herbology, tracking, trapping, climbing, stealth, foraging and even alchemy. Each is done all at the same time, with the exception being farming. Different to last time, the creatures are still formed of bark and twining branches, but now they are more realistic. Covered in grasses as fur or leaves as feathers, large chunks of soft wood as organs and thin branches to simulate veins and muscles. Perhaps of most interest to me was the third section of the day. Although the first few days had this time designated for more fighting, my ¡®trainer¡¯ soon realised I was lacking in many areas of knowledge, and especially in using my power. So these sessions were spent either teaching me about the history of spriggans or training my powers. It was on one such occasion that I discovered another aspect to one of the blessings I received. We were training, when she asked me why I spent all my time as a human. I responded that I was a human, and it was how I lived. This was met with ridicule, and I was asked to display my ability to shift between forms. What surprised her though, was the fact I didn¡¯t have to reform my body at a place of power. Although difficult to describe, the process of changing involved my body changing to reflect its regular structure in much the same way the animals are now structured. Everything became wood of some form, and at the point the transformation was occurring a vibrant green light would be emitted. During this process, I discovered I could alter my body at will. These alterations would not transfer to my human body, but my spriggan shape was completely malleable, a feat unheard of for all but the eldest of shamans. Naturally, some tests were done. It was found I could transmute parts to be stronger, thinner, thicker, weaker, elastic, stiff and so on. This proved invaluable, as I am able to essentially create weapons out of my body. An example is a dagger exiting my palm. I cannot disconnect these protrusions, as this hurts me, and the construct quickly breaks apart. However there is a possibility we hadn¡¯t even considered before. Archery. Archery is quickly added to the training schedule, as part of manipulating my body. By changing tension, flexibility and rigidity, I can form a fully functional bow on my arm. The third session is also filled with basics in all my powers I currently have. Admittedly there are only few, but any training is better than no training. Another notable event was the temporary deepening of my link to the quasi-sentient Rest. The resulting communication was not one of words. As an incredibly ancient entity that was never fully sentient, it only communicates in concepts. Most of them are basic, but there are things it understands that mortals cannot. It had some confusion at an Aether construct implanted into me, but it is dormant while I am inside this realm. Many things were cleared up, such as the fact the core acts as a centralised power generator. Apparently the core also gave it some control over itself, as opposed to instinctual growth, and allows it to do many things it could not before. It is also confused, for lack of a better term, as to why it is semi-sentient. Ages in its past it had a core, but it never experienced this, only increased awareness. Eventually, my month of training ended. Although I couldn¡¯t keep track of the time, my trainer did. Upon leaving, she told me I had spent a month and a half. Whether this was due to the Rest or me, we will never know. My awakening was met by two things, many screens and wolves howling to the east.
[Skill]s learned:
[Skill] Level Effects
Herbology [Novice 5/10] [5%] Increased chance to intuit herb¡¯s properties Synchronicity with [Nature Sight]
Tracking [Novice 5/10] [5%] Increased chance of noticing tracks [5%] Decreased chance of losing tracks
Foraging [Novice 6/10] [6%] Increased chance of noticing resources [6%] Decreased chance of ruining foraged resources Synchronicity with [Nature Sight]
Alchemy [Novice 6/10] [6%] Increased product potency [6%] Decreased chance of failure
Sword Mastery [Novice 7/10] [7%] Increased damage with swords [7%] Increased speed with swords
Dual Wielding [Novice 4/10] [48%] Decreased accuracy when dual wielding [23%] Decreased speed when dual wielding
Spear Mastery [Novice 6/10] [6%] Increased damage with spears [6%] Increased control with spears
Shield Mastery [Novice 5/10] [5%] Reduced damage taken with shields [5%] Increased chance of successful block
[Skill]s Increased:A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.
Stealth [Novice 9/10] [9%] Decreased chance of being noticed (Passive) [45%] Decreased chance of being noticed (Active)
Dagger Mastery [Novice 9/10] [9%] Increased damage with daggers [9%] Increased speed with daggers
Bow Mastery [Novice 9/10] [9%] Increased damage with bows [9%] Increased accuracy with bows
Skinning [Novice 9/10] [9%] Increased product quality [9%] Increased skinning speed
[Skill] Improved:
[Reform] [Novice 8/10] May reform your body without requiring a place of power. Current options: Human or Spriggan (Queen) or mix of the two.
I briefly glimpse the screens before dismissing them, noting the improvements to [Reform]. I don¡¯t know much about wolves, but I am pretty sure there is safety in numbers when confronting them. Unfortunately I am alone a fair distance from town. Using [Reform] I mold my body, giving myself daggers within my wrists and reinforcing my legs. I crawl out of the hideout, preparing for a fight. Seeing no wolves in my immediate vicinity, I climb the Rest¡¯s branches to attempt spotting the wolves. Although difficult, I could use the daggers to dig into the bark slightly, allowing better grips. I also morph my feet to be more claw-like for better gripping. Reaching a reasonable height, I survey the surroundings. There appears to be some movement to the west, and the town appears mostly deserted. Everyone who can is going inside with any animals they have. The movement to the west is getting closer, and I don¡¯t think I can make it to the town in time, so I climb back down to hole up inside the Rest. Five minutes of hiding pass without incident. These five minutes also alerted me to a recent development, being a slight green glow throughout the Rest¡¯s interior and a small green gem-like object in the centre of the floor. My nerves don¡¯t allow me to think on this much, but I resolve to investigate after the threats have passed. Unfortunately, after the five minutes the threat is knocking at my metaphorical door. A small wolf¡¯s head peeks through the hole, where it sees me and immediately rushes in. I can only assume the wolf assumed I am prey and attacks me. I don¡¯t have the time to contemplate this, as it is soon upon me. My daggers were never removed, so they are at the ready. As the wolf lunges towards me, I dodge to the side and strike at it. Although difficult in such a cramped space, my dagger successfully tears through the wolf¡¯s side. Although doing little damage, it is still great to know I can fight back. My moment of introspection is quickly interrupted by the wolf, who has recovered and quickly turned back around, as it once again lunges for me, this time at my leg. A quick step back and the wolf misses, at almost a perfect spot for me to strike, my dagger once again ripping the fur and damaging muscles, yet the wolf still lives and quickly darts away. The wolf seems much warier of me, and it looks pretty damaged. I expect one more strike and it will either flee or die. The wolf howls, likely letting its pack know where it is before once again rushing at me, going for my throat. This time, I don¡¯t manage to dodge properly, and a large chunk of flesh is torn out of my shoulder while the claws leave a gash on my chest. My dagger, in motion the whole time, goes through the soft underbelly and lands what I assume to be a fatal hit, as the wolf loses its energy even as it stops chewing the flesh still in its mouth.
ALERT: [Forest Wolf Level: 12] Killed: No Rewards: Entity Ineligible
It soon drops to the ground, no longer supporting itself, nor am I supporting it. I am glad the fight is over. Although brief, both parties were damaged. My training overnight seems to have paid off, and I am sure I would have died without it. I don¡¯t think I have long before more come, as the howl probably let the rest know, so I move the body to mostly block the hole. As I¡¯m doing this, I hear the same slow voice in my head. ¡­More¡­ Coming¡­ Heal¡­ Yourself¡­ This is great advice. Or would be, if I knew how to heal. Fool¡­ You¡­ Are¡­ Nature¡­ Use¡­ It¡­ Trying not to interrupt it is seriously frustrating, as any thoughts other than comprehending its words make it slow down. I¡­ Will¡­ Guide¡­ And with that, a strange sensation arises. It is similar to the feeling I get when trying to manipulate nature, but more precise in its intentions. Understand?... It says in a questioning tone, making me realise I had already been healed. I direct my thoughts inwards, trying to thank it. You¡­ are¡­ welcome¡­
[Skill] Learned: [Nature Healing]
Level: [Novice 1/10] Effects: Heal yourself or others using nature magic. Healing done this way is [1%] more effective Healing done this way is [1%] more efficient
The sensation is difficult to describe. There¡¯s a feeling of interconnectedness with the entire world, or at least the natural world, before a wave of hot and cold at the same time flows through me. I can see and feel my injuries repairing, although after one glance I look away. It is really disconcerting to see your flesh wriggling like maggots and elongating before reconnecting to the other side. This doesn¡¯t last too long, as another howl can be heard from right outside. The corpse of the wolf moves a bit, pushed inwards by an unknown force. Probably one of the other wolves. It doesn¡¯t take long for a gap large enough for a wolf to be made, and another one enters. Taking the initiative this time, I lunge for it with my daggers out, but the wolf manages to react and completely dodges my strike before attempting to respond in kind by biting me. The wolf had moved too far for this to be effective, and it doesn¡¯t manage to reach me. Taking the opportunity, I swipe at it, managing to hit it across it¡¯s front leg. The wolf, slightly cowed, lunges forward again, keeping most of its weight off the injured front leg, and just misses me once again. In a good place, I strike again aiming to stab through the eye, but I lose my footing and don¡¯t manage to connect. Taking advantage of my misstep, it once again tries to bite me, but it cannot connect as its leg slightly gives. I stab out again, just managing to do some damage, slicing through its back. Starting to become enraged, it lunges again but cannot move its leg enough to get the height required to reach my neck. Before I can attack again, I slip slightly and have to move back a step, allowing the wolf to lunge again, however the wolf doesn¡¯t manage anything. I take a few quick steps back to put some distance between us, warily watching the wolf. The injuries to its back and leg reduce its mobility, so it does not follow. Glad for the brief respite, I take the chance to regain my breath, and the wolf snarls while occasionally glancing towards the dead wolf. The battle is joined soon after as it ducks down and sprints for my leg, managing to clamp down on it. Swiping towards it once again as I lose my balance, I miss and land hard. I manage to fend it off with my undamaged leg as it pounces towards my throat, letting go of my damaged leg. I don¡¯t have a good angle to strike, so my flailing arms cannot do anything to it. Taking its time, it does not let me get up and looks for an opening. Seeing one, it tries to take it, yet my flailing arms manage to ward it away before it can do anything, allowing me to get a lucky shot and slice against its neck. It begins bleeding profusely, and I think I hit a jugular as it whimpers and tries walking away, before it collapses next to the other dead wolf.
ALERT: [Forest Wolf Level: 14] Killed: No Rewards: Entity Ineligible
After this battle, I take the time to try and heal myself again. Lasting about two times the last one did, I can feel the damage being reversed. My leg is still damaged and will not be able to support my weight much, but my shoulder is almost at full functionality. Unfortunately, I am interrupted by a loud growling. What is surprising is that I can understand it. ¡°Come out. You are a worthy prey.¡± After about a minute of not responding, it growls again ¡°The Tree will be our sanctuary. We will take it by force.¡± Once again, I do not respond. ¡°Fine, if you won¡¯t come out we¡¯ll have to make you.¡± This alone is not threatening, however the voice in of the Rest urges me to leave. ¡­They¡­ Are¡­ Strong¡­ Will¡­ Damage¡­ Me¡­ Please¡­ Protect¡­ Outside¡­ Following the Rest¡¯s heeding, I exit, and find five wolves outside, encircling the entrance. One of them stands out far more than the others, a great beast of a wolf. This wolf seems to be coated in stone plates rather than fur and is at least twice the size of the others. It steps forwards and growls, once again I can understand it. ¡°Good, you are not a complete coward. By the Ancient Tradition, I challenge you for the right to this Place of Power. Do you accept?¡± ¡°I do not know what you mean, but I guess I have no choice. I will accept your challenge.¡± As I say this, I reform the dagger in my right hand into a short sword and remove the dagger from my left hand. I also modify my left arm to have a hardened bark covering, something I had forgotten about in my previous fights. The wolf runs at me, and I meet its charge with one of my own and a sword swing. I manage to get a lucky shot between its plates. Angered at this, it snaps at me but the blade gets between it and me. Not one to let the opportunity pass, I try to stab again but the blade rebounds off the plate. Attempting to bite me again, it doesn¡¯t manage to achieve anything. I dart in with my blade point first, managing to get a hit on it¡¯s eye. The beast going completely in a rage attacks me, but the blade in-between it¡¯s face and me prevents it from doing much. I once again slash at it, getting it along the front leg where there is no plating, lightly damaging and inconveniencing it. Still enraged, the beast leaps for my throat and manages grab my upper arm, tearing into it. Morphing my left fist into a club, I strike its snout in an effort to force it to let go, yet it holds on. My arm still in its jaws, it claws at my chest but manages to cut itself on my sword and releases my arm itself. Taking advantage of the situation I stab the wolf In its underbelly, where it is not protected by plating, eliciting a slight whimper as it takes a few steps back. Rather than try to bite me, it charges towards me with head bowed in an attempt to knock me over. Although fast, it is not difficult to sidestep this, and as the wolf runs past I stab towards it, once again finding a gap between plates. Turning around, it lunges again, managing to knock me to the side without doing any harm, but positioning my sword so that an attempted attack of mine misses completely. It goes for my throat again, but my left arm, coated in toughened bark, gets in its way. The beast is in too difficult a position for me to successfully hit it, so another attempt is rebounded off its plating. Seeing this, it takes the opportunity and gets my throat, tearing a large chunk and my jugular out. As I feel my awareness fading, I reach out to the nature around me and pull the power into me in an attempt to heal. It is barely successful, and rather than an artery a root replaces the jugular in transferring blood. There is also a protective layer of bark coating my previously open wound, stopping the general bleeding from being too serious. As I¡¯m kneeling on the ground, unsure how I got there, I go to stab the wolf only to find my sword has disintegrated at some point. My fist hits the stone plate of the wolf, and it looks at me in confusion before growling, ¡°How do you still live?¡± My response is a weak laugh, with barely any energy behind it. ¡°Because I am nature. Or at least that¡¯s what the tree said.¡± Swallowing my flesh, it walks leisurely towards me. ¡°You have put up a good fight. Rest now in the embrace of Nature.¡± Before reaching me, I morph both arms into long blades and try to skewer it. Neither manage to do anything as I am too dizzy to aim properly. ¡°I¡¯ve still got more fight in me.¡± I say before leaping to my feet again, a moment of vertigo hitting me. It lunges for my throat again, and I barely manage to dodge before attacking with both arm-blades again. Due to it¡¯s half blindness and the damage already done to its body, it does not manage to dodge as my left arm penetrates its ribs and my right goes through the already damaged eye. With both brain and heart damaged, it does not manage anything more than a brief whimper before collapsing and taking me with it.
ALERT: [Mutant Forest Wolf Level: 28] Killed: Rewards Available: Challenged Entity
I look around, and the wolves that were excited by this event start to back away, with a mourning howl shared between them. They run off into the forest after a moment, never looking back. I realise it is probably a disconcerting sight, an man with his arms up to his elbows in a wolf''s eye and chest. I am quickly distracted by mu musing by a screen appearing.
Challenge for Place of Power complete: To the victor go the spoils. You may choose the reward:
Guardian Spirit: The vanquished will serve the Place of Power as guardians. Harvested Energy: The energies of the vanquished may be used to empower the Place of Power.