I don’t know what’s more challenging: waking up in the mornings with the weight of depression or being awake and thinking about dying. Sleep is the only time of peace, at least when I can get some. I wonder what it will be like to rest forever, finally. Then, each day, I resolve to fight and roll out of bed. Or was it the fact I had to pee the reason? Either way, “It won’t be long,” I tell myself. Just keep kicking, one more day.
Jordan’s Journal Entry
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I sat cross-legged on the cool stone floor of the ziggurat's antechamber, trying to mediate. I didn’t want to start gathering but to examine my internal Arc and Zan. I didn’t just want to see the gathered substances. I wanted to see how it moved and was stored and if there were channels that I could form. I also wanted to understand how nanotechnology works with my body and new systems.
I asked Skit for an update on the rogue nano, but he said there was nothing new to report. I have gone through so many changes I was struggling to keep it all straight. I want to make the most of it, to harness the new power I had at my fingertips.
The only light around me was the soft glow of bioluminescent moss that climbed the ancient walls. I looked up as Ian entered the room. He had been watching and checking out the immediate area as I took inventory of my body and internal systems.
The older warrior’s presence was reassuring, a steadfast constant in the chaos that had become his life. I’d only known him briefly, but he was one of the first people to be encouraging and helpful and provide specific examples of how to improve. He was here to hone my skills, a necessity if I was to survive the trials ahead and harness my Crave class abilities. I hadn’t revealed a lot about my class to him yet.
“Ready to begin?” Ian asked, his voice echoing slightly in the ample space inside the ziggurat. It was like a temple dedicated to some ancient deity. The civilization that built it was long gone, but it was a testament to their architectural skill and lasting construction.
I rose and nodded to Ian, feeling the weight of my borrowed sword in hand. It was lighter than my created blade but good enough for today. We started with basic stances, Ian correcting my posture and the angle of my arms.
“You're holding back,” Ian observed, parrying a half-hearted thrust. “You need to commit to the strike.”
I took a deep breath and tried again, putting my weight into the movement. The blade sliced through the air, meeting Ian’s with a satisfying clang.
“Better,” Ian nodded. Now, let’s try something a bit more advanced.”
As we moved through a series of more complex maneuvers, I felt more of a growing smile as my confidence swelled. The sword felt like an extension of my arm, responsive and swift. I was learning to anticipate Ian's moves, the give and take of our mock battle mirroring the rhythm of an intricate dance. I was shocked at how fast I was learning. I could only attribute it to the passive impact of my system, nanotech, the growing symbiotic relationship with Skit, and the power within me.
Our training was suddenly interrupted by a low growl emanating from deeper within the ziggurat. The sound was unlike anything I had heard—a chilling reminder of the unknown dangers lurking in the shadows.
Ian paused, his expression turning serious. “It seems we might have some uninvited guests,” he murmured. “This will be a good test of your readiness.”
I tightened my grip on the sword’s hilt, nodding my understanding. Whatever made those sounds might soon be upon us, and I needed to be ready to fight and use the unique powers I was still learning to control.
As we slowly approached the noise’s origin, the air grew thick with a pungent, earthy odor. The dim light from the moss was barely enough to illuminate our path, but the adrenaline coursing through my veins heightened my senses.
Suddenly, two large shapes detached themselves from the shadows—mutated leopards, their bodies grotesquely elongated and eyes glowing with an evil light. They didn’t have typical fur but were amalgamations of roots and plants. They still had pronounced jaws full of sharp, overly large fangs. My heart raced as I faced these beasts, and the challenge of my capabilities felt more visceral than before. I was sure Ian was good, but I hadn’t seen him in action, and these were the most dangerous beasts I’d seen yet.
Ian stood back, silently signaling that Jordan was to lead this fight. “Remember what you've learned. Use your environment, and don’t underestimate the importance of your abilities. If you can balance your sword work and your abilities, I want to see you start experimenting with your Arc or Class skills.”
I nodded, swallowing the fear that was making the hair on my arms stand on end. This was more than a test of physical skill; it was a chance to prove to myself that I could do more than survive—I could thrive and perhaps begin to unravel the mysteries of my skills and get through my first day at the academy.
The first mutated leopard leaped, its massive body cutting through the dim light like a swathe of shadow torn from the night. I rolled to the side, feeling the whoosh of air as claws swiped where I had just been. Gravel crunched under his boots as I regained my footing, my heart pounding like a rapid beat in my ears.
I didn’t have time to catch my breath before the second beast attacked, more cunning and silent than its companion. It aimed not for where I was but where I would be; its instinctual cunning was a deadly tool honed by its unnatural alterations and higher level. I twisted, barely avoiding what felt like a fatal pounce that would have pinned me to the cold ziggurat floor.
Ian shouted from the sidelines, "Use the columns!" His voice was a rope pulling me back from the brink of panic to the tactics we had drilled.
I quickly glanced around, noting the thick, vine-encrusted pillars that supported the arches of the ziggurat antechamber roof. I sprinted toward the nearest enemy, the leopards’ growls reverberating off the stone walls, a terrifying symphony that fueled my adrenaline.
As I neared the column, I slid, kicking up a cloud of dust and debris. The first leopard overshot me, crashing into the pillar with a stunned yowl. Seizing the moment, I scrambled up, my free hand finding hold of the ancient carvings that decorated the stone. I had only a moment to slice the side of the dazed enemy at my feet. I took the chance and swept my sword across its ribs.
The second leopard had circled, its eyes glowing coals in the murky light. I pulled from the depths of my will, reaching for the Arc, filling my inner being; it simmered within me—a power I still barely understood but instinctively felt was linked to combat.
Focusing on the beast below but keeping my awareness stretched around me, I reached out a hand, palm downward. A pulsing heat built in my chest, then surged through my veins like liquid fire, converging into his fingertips. I instinctively felt I was doing something wrong, and the result was not ideal. I visualized the energy infecting and corrupting the creature, eating it with an invading force of my will and desire for destruction. In my mind, I saw it being eaten away as my gathered power ran rampant through its body.
The leopard paused, its body tensing as if caught in an invisible net. Its entire body shook, but it tried to snap its head towards my outstretched arm, confusion evident in its snarl but responding on instinct. Unable to turn its head enough, it attempted to rise, only to collapse back down, bewildered by the unseen force invading its body.
I suddenly exhaled. The strain of pushing the power through my body felt forced and unnatural. The effort manifested a sheen of sweat on my brow. I couldn’t hold it long—my training had been too brief, my skill a far cry from any mastery. But it took me precious seconds, leaving me open to attack from behind.
With the first beast under the effects of my Arc attack, I turned to find Ian directing the second beast towards me. It seemed he had prevented it from ambushing me. Now, it was headed my way, shaking off the impact of Ian’s deflecting strike. It fixed its gaze on me, a low growl rumbling from its throat, a sound that let us know it was out for blood.
I jumped to the side, sprung off the nearest column, and landed with a grunt. My legs absorbed the impact and avoided the vine-covered panther’s charge. I could feel the vibration of the leopard’s collision with the wall through the soles of my shoes as it slammed headfirst into the stone.
Ian’s voice cut through the tension, “Now, Jordan! What you learned!”
Trusting in my mentor’s guidance, I closed my eyes for a fraction of a second, centering myself amidst the chaos. Opening them, I faced the oncoming threat ready. As the leopard shook off its daze, it leaped immediately; I sidestepped with surprising grace, swinging my arm wide. The move was more than physical; it was imbued with the nascent power of my Arc and Zan flowing down my arm and into the blade, channeling my desperate need for victory into a palpable force.
The air seemed to ripple as a wave of supernatural energy burst from my palm, down the hilt, and coated the blade in gold and black magical mixture. The blade passed through the leopard with no resistance at all. The slice took it mid-leap. Both the leopard and I couldn’t understand what happened. The beast yowled a cry of pain before it landed on its feet. I was unaware of the damage I’d caused until I saw the two pieces of the beast slide apart as if a laser had bisected its entire body. Both halves began to dematerialize immediately. I felt an infusion of energy fill my body.
Breathing heavily, I watched warily as the remaining leopards seemed to hesitate in the darkness, their eyes now wary, a new respect—or perhaps fear—of this tiny human who wielded strange powers.
“They’ll think twice now,” Ian commented, stepping closer with a nod of approval. “Well done. Now you know, the best lessons are learned in the heat of battle.”
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As we watched, the remaining leopards retreated into the shadows. I felt a surge of adrenaline-fueled triumph. But Ian’s words echoed in his mind, a reminder that each victory was just a preparation for more significant trials ahead, each battle a lesson in the unforgiving survival curriculum.
As the remaining leopards slunk back into the shadows, Ian's firm hand landed on my shoulder, grounding me from the rush of my most recent kill and the unsettling display of my newfound power. "That was more than proficient, Jordan," he said, his voice a mix of praise and caution. "It's clear you are beginning to harness your unique Arc and Zan abilities. I’ve never seen anything quite like it.”
His words echoed in my mind as I surveyed the dim, vine-draped hallways of the ziggurat. The beasts had been fearsome, a concoction of nature and nightmare, but the way my blade had sliced through it, empowered by a force I barely understood, was exhilarating—and terrifying.
"Let's move on," Ian suggested, his eyes scanning the darkness for more threats. "There will be more of them or worse."
Nodding, I followed him deeper into the labyrinth of the ancient structure, my senses heightened and my mind racing. I could still feel the residual energy from my attack coursing through my veins, a vibrant surge that beckoned to be understood and mastered. But it wasn’t my veins. I knew enough to understand I hadn’t formed perfect channels to funnel and fuel my body. I don’t know how cultivation works beyond the basics of gathering and watching Insatiable do something with my forearm that seemed to house that beast I absorbed in the gym.
As we ventured further, Ian began to share his thoughts on the tactical applications of my abilities and the beginnings of my sword work. "You've got a unique blend of power, Jordan. Your ability to manipulate and use your internal energy externally could be your signature style. But you need to understand the limits and the costs. And practice with them in these real situations. You will find your way, and I am happy to help and encourage you. But in my experience, don’t let anyone force you down a path you don’t want. But also, don’t tell Instructor Gamble I said that,” Ian laughed.
I didn’t understand what he meant, but rather than question Ian, I wanted to know what Skit thought.
What did he mean by cost? My grip tightened on the hilt of my sword, slowing time but keeping vigilant.
Every power has its price, whether it's stamina, concentration, or something more esoteric. You just brute-forced the Zan and Arc in your body to shove it down your arm and externally project a blade sharper than any that exists. It even warped the reality of the blade you swung to remove the width of it from space for a brief moment.
You know how the rogue nano interacts with your system—it's been unpredictable. I mention this because whatever you did stirred it up like a kicked beehive as if your fight response to the higher-leveled creatures you faced caused it to want to do something. I’ll continue to monitor it. I was just letting you know.
I pondered what Skit told me, realizing the weight of the unknown I carried inside me. I wanted to control, understand, and possibly innovate the very nature of the powers I wielded. But I honestly didn’t know what was going to happen next.
We rounded a corner and entered a vast chamber, the walls inscribed with faded glyphs that pulsed faintly with a ghostly light. "Try something here," Ian instructed, stopping in the center of the room. "Summon your ability, but focus on control, not just raw output this time.”
Standing near a wall, I began by taking a deep breath; I closed my eyes and reached inward to the swirling nexus of power that resided inside. I envisioned it as a swirling galaxy of energy, each star a node of potential, some gold and some void black, that I could direct and shape. Slowly, I extended my hand, palm outwards, focusing on one of the glowing glyphs on the wall.
With a concentrated effort, I channeled a thread of my energy towards the glyph. It flickered brightly at my touch, and a warm hum filled the air, a resonant sound that vibrated through the stone and into my bones. I opened my eyes in time to see the glyph ignite with a brilliant light, casting long shadows behind the intricate pillars of the chamber.
"That's interesting,” Ian said, surprised. “I meant to throw a punch or swing your sword, but you are somehow talking to the temple? That is wild," he gestured at the spot I’d ignited the wall, “there’s no telling what this place was originally for. It might be a system recreation of a temple built by those who understood Arc and Zan in ways lost to us. You're tapping into something I don’t understand. Maybe hold off on that. That okay?" He looked at me, puzzled by what had just happened.
The experience left me stunned. The connection felt right, like a key turning in a lock rusted shut ages ago. This was more than just combat proficiency; this was about projecting the power inside me with something external. It felt right, and yet I had no idea if it was a good thing or if I was just lighting the fuse to a bomb. Whatever happened, I needed to be a little cautious, right?
“Try going back to practicing the attack you used,” Ian encouraged as the light from the glyph slowly faded. "The more you understand your power, the more you can bend it to your will—and the safer you'll be when using it."
As we left the chamber, my mind was ablaze with possibilities. I was beginning to see the path ahead of me in the ziggurat and the potential paths my life could take. With each step and each breath, I felt more connected to the energies around me. I began breathing smooth and deep breaths and feeling the Arc and Zan, my twin powers, swirl inside me. It became intoxicating to feel the power of them. I realized I was doing a lesser form of gathering while walking and moving. Not just sitting and meditating., I probably wasn’t ready to face everything this Temporal Gate could throw at us, but I was gaining confidence in what lay ahead.
As Ian and I left that chamber, the weight of potential within me thrummed like a second heartbeat, urging me forward. We delved deeper into the ziggurat, the air growing cooler and the darkness denser. The moss’s glow was a mere whisper, barely lighting our path.
The corridor ended abruptly, opening into a colossal dome-shaped hall. Its vast ceiling arched overhead, lost in shadows. At its center stood an altar, behind which a statue of a forgotten god loomed, its features eroded by time but still menacing.
"There," Ian pointed to a figure shrouded in darkness near the altar. "Our next challenge."
My pulse quickened as we approached. The figure stepped forward, revealing itself under the faint light—a creature towering over us, its form a grotesque tapestry of human and reptilian traits infused with vines and leaves. Its eyes, burning with a malevolent intelligence, fixed on us.
"It’s a Guardian," Ian murmured, his voice tight. A protector of sacred places. We must be near something valuable for something so dangerous to appear. Be careful. If things go bad, retreat the way we came. There’s a path running up the side of the waterfall.”
That was all Ian had time to say as the Guardian hissed, a sound that seemed to vibrate through the very stone beneath our feet. It moved with surprising speed for its size, charging toward us with a mace in its giant human-like hand that looked like it could crush me in a single strike.
Jordan, dodge left, then use a counter-thrust. Combine your physical strike with a burst of Zan energy.
Skit’s voice echoed in my mind faster than I thought.
I obeyed immediately, rolling to the left as the Guardian's mace smashed into the ground where I had stood seconds before. I came up on one knee and thrust my sword forward, channeling Arc and Zan through the blade—the energy wrapped around the metal, extending and sharpening its edge as it struck the creature.
The Guardian recoiled, howling in rage and pain as the gold and pure dark energy seeped into its now open wound. It wasn’t down, though; it recovered quickly, swinging its mace with greater fury.
Ian capitalized on my attack and engaged right after, drawing the creature’s attention away from me before it completed its swing. Ian moved with the precision and calm of a seasoned warrior, his strikes a series of well-timed maneuvers that forced the Guardian to keep its focus.
Use the pillars to your advantage! Create a trap with an Arc and Zan mixture of energy. Make it stick to the pillar.
How am I supposed to do that? I asked Skit.
Unsure how this would work, I still dashed to the nearest pillar, placing my hands against the cold stone. I glanced back at the Guardian, then closed my eyes, feeling for the latent energy inside, the mysterious constellations of power swirling in me. I pulled them from the deep well inside me and willed them down my arm to the ancient pillar.
Drawing a deep breath, I pushed Arc energy into the pillar, but the forces in me moved sluggishly. Still, all of this was happening in a matter of a second; it still felt like minutes had passed in my mind.
The stone vibrated under my palms, then began to glow, lighting up momentarily as a section as large as my body turned to a black shadow to my eyes. To my extra senses, I could sense my power had infused the stone but was no longer visible.
I grabbed some rubble, a stone the size of my foot, and threw it at the back of the Guardian. It roared, its eyes finding mine, filled with hatred. I saw its leg still injured from my slice. Ian had done significant damage to its chest and arms as green blood flowed down and vines scattered around the beast.
I was ready as the giant closed the gap between us in two bounds. I used every ounce of agility and strength to throw myself to the side.
The guardian should have plowed into the pillar; I was expecting it to crumble under the momentum of the behemoth. As I rolled to my feet, I was the giant partially inside the pillar. The beast was half embedded into where I had infused my Arc and Zan. I watched as the exposed portion of the beast I could still see fell away from the now glowing spot on the pillar. I was caught between two spectacles; the first was watching my power fizzle away from the stone, leaving a gouge in the pillar, and the other more gruesome sight, the bloody insides of the guardian falling to the ground with a wet splat.
“What was that?” Ian came up to my side.
“A trap, I guess,” I sheepishly muttered.
“Well, you seem to be figuring out some interesting tricks. You know other people don’t use Arc like that? I’m not saying to stop or to hide it. Just know it’s going to be seen as abnormal.
The Guardian’s body disintegrated into motes that scattered in a silent breeze. Heavy and absolute silence fell over the chamber. All the energy of Arc and Zan I’d used flooded back and, more than ever, rushed through me.
“Wow,” I exhaled in surprise. “What a rush.”
“No drop again,” Ian couldn’t help but frown. “Is that going to be a trend even when I help with the kill?”
I shrugged as I honestly didn’t know how my class abilities would work. “Sorry, not sure yet.”
Ian clapped me on the shoulder, a grin breaking across his face. “No matter, that was well done, Jordan. You're learning to harness your powers, and you are getting creative. Hopefully, that will be just the beginning of your adaptive combat techniques. This is what being a warrior is about. I might have invited you to another delve if you didn’t cost me TG drops. But since you completely steal my drops…” Ian paused as if considering, “I’m just kidding. “ he laughed, “You are definitely invited for another run.”
As we stood there, barely needing to catch our breath, the reality of what we'd just achieved began to sink in. We had faced a Guardian and lived to tell the tale. Ian must have faced this level of threat many times. He was relaxed and joking around. But my focus now was that I had managed to merge my powers in combat and not by getting my system to pilot my body, like at the ceremony. It was me this time.
"We should see what it was guarding. They’re called guardians for a reason,” Ian explained with excitement, and together, we moved towards the altar, cautious but curious.
Each step echoed in the now quiet ziggurat, a reminder of the battles fought and the mysteries awaiting us. I felt ready, more connected to the energies around me and within me, prepared for whatever challenges lay ahead in the shadowed halls of this ancient place.