Chapter 3: Awakening Courage
Cruz crouched over the slain creature, the rush of his recent victory still surging through his veins. The massive form of the Dreadspine Hatchling lay at his feet, its eyes dull and lifeless. It looked even more grotesque now in death—a strange mix of reptile and insect, with thick scales running down its spine and serrated claws that still gleamed in the dim light of this alien world. He had done it. He had killed a monster.
Yet, the exhaustion pulled at him, a reminder that he was not invincible. His muscles ached from the effort, and the wound on his side still throbbed, though it was healing at an accelerated rate, thanks to the strange mana in this world. Cruz felt a wave of nausea as he considered his next move. He needed to survive here for longer, to understand the creatures, the landscape, and most importantly, his newfound power.
Taking a deep breath, Cruz forced himself to focus. He had awakened a skill—Descent of Primus—and its potential was exhilarating, but dangerous. He hadn't fully understood it yet, and he needed to be cautious. He recalled how time had felt different during his fight, how he had sensed the movements of the Dreadspine Hatchling and reacted with unexpected agility.
He stood, glancing around the alien landscape. The vibrant colors of the sky shifted to a deeper shade of blue, and strange flora dotted the terrain—some with glimmering petals, others with spiky protrusions. He realized he needed to learn what was edible and what was not. If he wanted to survive, he would have to become attuned to this environment.
Cruz approached a nearby plant with purple leaves and small, luminescent berries. He plucked one carefully, inspecting it closely. A sense of unease washed over him. "What if it's poisonous?" he muttered, contemplating the risks. He could feel the instinct to survive clawing at him, pushing him to take chances.
He hesitated, but hunger gnawed at his stomach. With a shaky hand, he took a small bite of the berry. A burst of sweetness exploded in his mouth, quickly followed by a tartness that made him grimace. He swallowed it down, feeling a strange warmth spread through him. It was not poisonous. He felt invigorated.
"Okay, that's one," he said to himself, gathering courage. He moved to another plant, this one with long, thick stems and small yellow flowers. He bit into one of the petals and was met with a mild, refreshing flavor. Cruz grinned. "I can do this."
As he continued to forage, he focused on his surroundings, taking mental notes of the plants and creatures. He felt the pulse of life around him, the rhythm of the world. Suddenly, the familiar message flickered before his eyes.
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[Notice]:
[USER HAS UNLOCKED SKILL: IDENTIFY – Rank F]
Cruz's heart raced as he read the notification. He felt a surge of energy, the excitement of discovery pulsing through him. He focused his gaze on the Dreadspine Hatchling, willing the skill to provide information.
The details appeared in the air before him, shimmering and glowing as he read:
1. Dreadspine Hatchling [lvl 5-10]
You have encountered [Dreadspine Hatchling – lvl 7]
Vitality: 1/5
The Hatchling is fragile, with little durability. Its hide is tough for its level, but not enough to withstand serious attacks.
Strength: 1/5
Its claws are sharp enough to tear through soft targets, but it lacks the power to penetrate armor.
Cruz marveled at the information, feeling a rush of exhilaration. "So that's what you are," he whispered to the lifeless creature. The Hatchling had been weaker than he expected, and knowing its stats gave him confidence.
As he took in the creature's remains, he was struck by a sudden idea. If he could use its hide for protection and its claws for weapons, he could fashion some makeshift armor and tools for himself. That thought invigorated him further.
With renewed determination, Cruz set to work. He first examined the Hatchling's claws, noting how sharp and serrated they were. Using a sharp rock, he carefully pried one free, wincing at the effort but pushing through the pain. The claw came away easily, its edge gleaming in the light.
"Just a little more," he muttered to himself, pulling the second claw and then turning to the thick hide. The skin was tough, and he had to exert considerable effort to slice through it. But he persevered, cutting sections into manageable pieces, envisioning how he could layer them for protection.
Once he had a few strips, Cruz used the smaller claws to pierce holes in the hide, tying the pieces together with strips of vine he found nearby. The process took time, and the work was grueling, but with each passing moment, he felt his confidence grow. He was crafting armor, shaping a weapon; he was taking control of his fate.
Finally, after what felt like hours, he had fashioned a crude breastplate from the hide and secured the claws to create a pair of makeshift gauntlets. He put them on, the weight of the armor oddly comforting. It wasn't perfect, but it was better than nothing.
Feeling a mix of pride and excitement, Cruz couldn't help but test his newfound gear. He flexed his fingers, feeling the sharp claws extending from his hands. "This will work," he said, determination filling his voice. He was ready for more.
As dusk settled, Cruz gathered his belongings and prepared to explore further. He had faced one monster; now, he would face more. With each encounter, he would grow stronger, learn more about his powers, and uncover the truth of this world.
He stepped forward, heart pounding with anticipation. With his armor on and his skills awakened, he felt a sense of courage he had never experienced before. The shadows of the land whispered secrets, and he was ready to listen. The night was dark, but Cruz was no longer afraid. He was a hunter now, a survivor, and he would reclaim his fate.