Zeldritzon [Cycle 12] - Morning
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Current Location:
[Crystal Shelter]
[The Domain]
[UvoSath Forest of the UvoSath Realm]
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KiAera tilted her head, her eyes shifting among the various facilities inside the training center—Domains. The facilities led to different chambers, each designed to enhance the parameters she had recognized: Strength, Defense, Firepower, Resistance, Willpower, and Speed. Each door was adorned with strange, glowing runes. Their presence sparked both intrigue and apprehension within her—what lay beyond those doors?
GamaGen shifted slightly, the pages of the floating book ruffling as if caught in a sudden breeze. The runes etched on the doors glowed brighter before the massive doorways swung open with a low, rumbling creak, revealing the depths of the various chambers. A warm, golden light spilled from within, illuminating the hall outside and casting shadows against the walls.
"Amber!" she called out, beckoning the eager LeapLeap, who immediately bounded over. "Would you like to test your speed in the Speed Room? I'm sure you'll excel."
Amber's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "LeeLee~! Yes! I can outpace any of them! Just watch me, LeeLee!" She hopped from foot to foot.
「'The essence of the Speed Chamber is the harnessing of momentum. Set up obstacles that require both agility and reflexes. Place targets that need to be hit quickly, and ensure that each one is positioned at varying distances.'」
"Alright, everyone!" KiAera called, turning to the other monsters. "You'll start with a series of speed drills. I want everyone to follow Amber's lead! Let's see how quickly you can navigate the course within that chamber!"
GamaGen gaze met the Plelepun's, causing the elephant calf to flinch. 「'Head no lower than the third floor. We entrust the instruction of the others to you, young Plelepun.'」
The Plelepun rubbed the top of his head nervously. "Y-Yo, what me? Uh, sure, GamaGen!" He glanced back at KiAera, who gave him an encouraging smile. "I can guide them through the drills! No problem!"
KiAera smirked. "GamaGen, allow me to take a look in the chamber they're heading into before we start our session."
「'Of, course. I'll be awaiting you out here. Take all the time you need to adjust yourselves.'」
As KiAera led Amber towards the Speed Chamber, she could hear the chatter of the others clamoring in excitement for their training.
Once they entered the Speed Chamber, KiAera took a moment to appreciate its vastness. The environment appeared in the form of an azure plain, the walls were lined with shimmering panels that seemed to pulse with energy, and the floor was marked with various track layouts, targets, and obstacles. In the center of the room was a large holographic screen that displayed a countdown timer and a record of the best times achieved by previous attempts. There was none, so far.
'Floor 1. Multiplier x1,' she read from one of the panels. Hurrying over to the panels, she observed the different options and was able to input the desired parameters. She went on to make the adjustments GamaGen had advised her—'Floor 1. Multiplier x3,' as a starting point.
With the Plelepun at her side, KiAera traced her ear's hand over the panel. From what she could discern, the room had ten floors, with a maximum multiplier of ten for the first one—where her group currently resided—and the final floor, the tenth, having a maximum of a hundred-fold.
Increasing the multiplier within the Speed Chamber lengthens the room and its track by the multiplier's number.
For every gain in the First Floor is +1 point to a parameter, which within this room was Speed, but the value increases by a multiplier of three. However, there was a warning that going higher, particularly with each floor increases the strain on the individual undergoing the training session.
"Yo, we need to be careful about going too deep!" the Plelepun trumpeted as he scrutinized the screen. She was taken aback when she realized that the elephant calf was actually reading the runes and understanding them. "If we push too hard, we could end up with some serious fatigue—or worse!"
Reading meticulously, the First Floor was the baseline for each chamber within the Monster Domain. For every gain on the First Floor, there was a +1 point increase to a parameter, which in this room was Speed. However, the value increased by a multiplier of three with the current setup. It was important to note that ascending to higher floors, especially with each subsequent level, increases the strain on the individual undergoing the training session. This also scaled with the multiplier, making it clear that the choices she made would have significant repercussions.
What fascinated her the most was that each crystal—a light blue one that usually functions as a single unit—burned at the same rate as if it were one no matter the setting. There was some form of conversion that took place, allowing for a more potent training experience.
She glimpsed the crystal in her paw; a one-for-three conversion seemed worthwhile. Easing into it was more important than jumping into risks.
"Let's see now... Amber, do you have a preference for what kind of obstacles you'd like to face?" KiAera inquired.
The LeapLeap shook her head. "Anything is fine, as long as I can show off my skills!"
Kyrawl—the wyvern appearing enormous next to the LeapLeap—sneered as he leaned his head toward the ratite monster, "Oh, ho~! And how do you plan to do that, little one?"
KiAera signaled for the countdown to begin. The holographic screen flashed to life, displaying a large "3-2-1" before erupting into a vibrant green light, indicating the start. As soon as the signal went off, Amber shot forth like a bolt of lightning.
With that, she took off at a breakneck pace, weaving between the obstacles with ease.
The holographic screen began counting down as Amber reached the first target, leaping into the air and striking it with her foot, activating a burst of light as points registered. "First target down!" she yelled triumphantly, racing to the next.
She reached the end of the course before KiAera could blink, skidding to a stop as she raised her head with a whoop. She glanced at the holographic display, which calculated Amber's time, flashing a respectable record for the first attempt. NEW RECORD: Amber - 42.3 Seconds!
Amber's [SPD Boost +3]! Amber's [APeX +3]!
꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱
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Creature: Amber the LeapLeap
Faux Nym: Awaiting Confirmation…
Brief Description: large ratite monster.
APeX: [2148 Units] → [2151 Units]
SPD Parameter: [25 Speed] → [28 Speed]
꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱
Abyssal Ambience remaining: [2000] → Abyssal Ambience remaining: [1999]. [-1].
That confirmed it.
KiAera waved her ears to gather the other monsters' attention. "Alright everyone, let's form a line! You'll take turns running through the course. Remember to watch Amber's technique. There's a lot we can learn from her."
One by one, the other monsters entered the Speed course, each taking their turn with varying levels of enthusiasm and skill. The laughter and cheers filled the air as they celebrated each other's successes. KiAera felt a swell of pride watching them push their limits, especially when Kyrawl soared above the obstacles, dodging and weaving with an agility that rivaled Amber's.
NEW RECORD: Kyrawl - 41.1 Seconds!
"LeeLee! No!" Amber protested, her eyes widening in disbelief as Kyrawl celebrated his newfound title. "That was my record!"
RECORDS (3 Laps):
1. Kyrawl - 41.1 Seconds!
2. (Drop) Amber - 42.3 Seconds!
"Kyrawl #1! Kyrawl #1! Kyrawl #1!" the kobolbos cheered at the sidelines.
KiAera chuckled. "It looks like Kyrawl has given you a challenge, Amber. This is all part of training! Let's see if you can reclaim your title."
Amber pouted momentarily, flapping her wings as she watched Kyrawl flaunt his victory. "Fine! I'll just have to train harder!" Her determination reignited, she bounced back and forth in place.
The other monsters cheered. The Plelepun, still absorbing the runes and monitoring the training, nudged KiAera gently with his trunk. "Yo, KiAera, I think we should up the challenge a little, maybe put in a twist or two to spice things up! That could help everyone improve even faster."
KiAera considered the suggestion. "That's a great idea! Let's add some additional elements, like moving targets or timed barriers, to increase the difficulty. We'll make sure to adjust the parameters so they can handle it without overexerting themselves." She adjusted the settings with a swipe: 'Floor 1. Multiplier x5.' If she recalled correctly, GamaGen had indicated that no floor should be set higher than three. Ease into it.
She turned to the Plelepun again. "Thank you for helping me with the training, plele-partner. Would you be willing to continue guiding everyone as they progress through the different chambers?"
"Oh, you betcha!" the Plelepun responded excitedly. "I've always been good at teaching others."
KiAera forced a frowned and poked the Plelepun's forehead. "Hey, don't get cocky! I'm counting on you, okay?"
The elephant calf rubbed his forehead sheepishly. "Sure thing, KiAera!"
"KiAera~!" The LeapLeap whined as she came to a stop beside them, puffing out her cheeks in irritation. "I'm ready to beat my record! But... but I'm not sure how to do it. I need to be faster, but I don't know how!"
"We're going to focus on your techniques and stamina," KiAera said as she approached the LeapLeap, patting her on the head. "You need to be able to sustain your speed over the course of the entire course, which means focusing on your form and breathing. Let's go over your technique together. Remember, we're all here to learn from each other."
With that, she began to demonstrate the proper running form, emphasizing the importance of proper posture and breathing. She took Amber through a series of drills to help her perfect her form, adjusting her stance and helping her to improve her breathing. As she did so, she could feel herself learning as well, gaining insight into proper running technique and the importance of breathing properly.
As they continued their practice, she felt a familiar warmth within her core, like a flame flickering to life. With each passing moment, she could feel herself growing more confident and more assured that she was on the right path. She was determined to do everything she could to help her crew reach their full potential. After all, they still had two days left until they encountered Mina and Boggorc again. Preparation was their best weapon going into the unknown.
RECORDS (5 Laps):
1. Amber - 40.4 Seconds!
2. Kyrawl - 40.9 Seconds!
3. KiAera :3 - 42.8 Seconds!
Amber's [SPD +60]! Amber's [APeX +300]!
꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱
Creature: Amber the LeapLeap
Faux Nym: Awaiting Confirmation…
Brief Description: large ratite monster.
APeX: [2151 Units] → [2451 Units]
SPD Parameter: [28 Speed] → [88 Speed]
꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱
Kyrawl's [SPD +80]! Kyrawl's [APeX +400]!
꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱
Creature: Kyrawl the Skyrawsoar
Faux Nym: Awaiting Confirmation…
Brief description: evolved wing crawling wyvern.
APeX: [6992 Units] → [7392 Units]
SPD Parameter: [44 Speed] → [124 Speed]
꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱
KiAera's [SPD +40]! KiAera's [APeX +200]!
꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱
Name and Status: KiAera
APeX: [2100 Units] → [2300 Units]
SPD Parameter: [10 Speed] → [50 Speed]
꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱
Abyssal Ambience remaining: [1999] → Abyssal Ambience remaining: [1783]... [-216]—from KiAera, Kyrawl, and Amber alone.
꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱
Leaving the Plelepun to instruct the others in the Strength Chamber, KiAera followed GamaGen to the Willpower Chamber. The hallway leading to it was dimly lit, with flickering flames casting shadows along the stone walls. GamaGen had assured her that the others would be safe, but she couldn't suppress the unease that developed in the pit of her stomach as she stepped further into the passage.
"GamaGen, I didn't think you'd take interest in that one," she remarked with a glance toward him.
The book gave a little shake, the sigil embossed upon its cover shifting as if animated. 「'I take interest in all facets of this training facility. The Chamber of Willpower, once referred to as the Chamber of Spirit, is instrumental in enhancing the mental resilience of the creatures that reside within.'」
"Chamber of Spirit?" KiAera echoed. "What kind of chamber is it? Speed was straightforward… How does one improve the 'spirit,' GamaGen?"
GamaGen shifted slightly, the runes etched upon his covers glinting in the dim light. 「'It's a chamber where the mind and soul are tempered. It's designed to help creatures become more resilient to external influences, especially to things like mental or spiritual attacks. As we have yet to face such foes… it's best to be prepared for the unknown.'」
KiAera nodded. "I can see how that would be useful. Is there a specific way we should go about training within the chamber?"
「'Inquiry after inquiry! There is one method: an encounter with a mind-bending monster of sorts. The only thing needed is your spirit.'」
She nodded, finding GamaGen's words made sense, albeit riddled. It was important to be strong-willed, and this particular chamber would help them in that regard. Her curiosity piqued, she gestured for GamaGen to lead the way.
The Willpower Chamber was an enormous dome-shaped garden that spanned the entirety of the facility, with a diameter of roughly a few thousand feet. Its walls and floors were carved from glass and polished purple stones. The ceiling hung high, supported by arches and cascading waterfall pillars. The mystical ambiance of the room created the illusion that the chamber was enveloped in a gentle haze, while floating platforms and debris hovered throughout the vast space.
It had an imposing, awe-inspiring presence, and as GamaGen hovered above, KiAera could sense the vast energy within the room. There was something eerie yet fascinating about the chamber, as if the energy lingering in the air had its own life force, its own pulse and flow.
「'KiAera. I want you to grow that sapling into a tree.'」GamaGen spoke, pointing a corner of his spine toward a young plant growing beside a moss-covered wall. 「'This is a test of your willpower. Your determination to see this through, no matter what obstacles you face, will determine your success in this challenge.'」
She looked at the plant curiously, then back at GamaGen baffled. "Grow the sapling into a tree? You're jesting, right?"
GamaGen remained silent for a moment, his emblem dulling. Then, he spoke again. 「'I'll answer your inquiries, but first utilize your Spectral Flame in an attempt to grow the sapling. You want the sapling to become a tree, but do not touch or harm it, not even a bit. Doing so means you have to mend it.'」
"Mend?" KiAera's ears twitched at the demand. Her gaze met the plant then back to GamaGen. "You do know I have no mending skill whatsoever, right? All I got was Spectral Flame and—"
She had her Innate Status to rely on, and the two Dominions that she'd acquired: Revise and Virtuoso. They were new but…
GamaGen tilted his spine and said, 「'To revise, to disrupt, to unleash, to augment, to manifest, to perceive, to generalize, to specialize the abyss. These are fundamental principles of growth in our dominion. Consider them your guide. If you can harness them, you may discover the way forward. You must outdo yourself.'」
"Alright… I'll give it a shot."
Taking a deep breath, KiAera focused her energy and began to channel her Spectral Flame. The flame emitted a gentle glow, dancing in hues of violet and azure. Carefully, she enveloped the sapling in her flame, ensuring she did not touch it directly.