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Update initiated!
!ERROR! REPAIR NEEDED. LV2 DEVICE REQUIRED.
Skill List:
Kanji (lv1): Aspect of Energy: Electricity, Thermal, Sound, Elastic.
{Skill points: !ERROR!}
[Full destructive power limit: Village]
Skills: [1. Infuse/Absorb] [2. Energy travel] [3. Energy trail] [4. Energy bolt] [5. Energy wave] [6. Energy blade] [7. Energy shield] [8. Energy dual conduit] [9. Energy healing] [10. Umbral Cape]
[Vortex battery (Storage)]
Inventory: Geographic sphere, mechanical soap, spyware device, tungsten-infused nanotech silver chain, tech tablet (Portal) (Hide, Input, Output, Convert, Compress), night vision goggles.
Claire (lv0): Aspect of Creation
Skills: [1. Create (Slots: 5)]
Inventory: Black cloak, crossbow, crossbow bolt (modified with rotatenium), ammo pouch, Fanfics, mechanical soap, a spyglass.
David (lv1): Aspect of Form
{Skill points: !ERROR!}
[Range limit: Self]
[Vortex battery (Control)]
Skills: [1. Expand (x2)] [2. Spikefacation] [3. Delay (1-10s)] [4. Shieldfacation] [5. Trigger] [6. Transform pattern Wave] [7. Net Transform] [8. Whip transform] [9. Blend around] [10. Uno]
Inventory: Iron bat, AK-47, mechanical soap.
Amelia (lv1): Aspect of Reality
{Skill points: !ERROR!}
[Attack type: illusion] [Attack range: x3 field of view]
Skills: [1. Third-person vision] [2. Blurring Mirage] [3. Double] [4. Connect] [5. Vision Swap] [6. Disguise] [7. Flash Mirage] [8. False movement] [9. False Touch] [Mentaltomisis]
[Vortex Battery (Charge)]
Inventory: Frying Pan, knife, mechanical soap.
Sarah (lv0): Aspect of Fiction
[Skill access: 1 skill for each item] [Conjured item 1]
Inventory: Mechanical soap, Nezha’s leopard bag (Nezha’s ring).
Noah (lv0): Aspect of Emotion
Skills: [Emotion infusion] (Emotional requirement: High)
Inventory: Gilded axe, mechanical soap, a sharpening stone.
Diana (lv0): Aspect of Law
{Laws unlocked: Law of Friction} {Limit: Only manipulate small values}
Inventory: Mechanical soap, a pickaxe.
Adrian (lv0): Aspect of Knowledge.
{Connected Minds} {Info Extraction} [Limit: half of basic info}]
Inventory: Mechanical soap, rope.
Azan (lv0): Aspect of Change.
{Limitation: 1. Follow under the concept “change” only. 2. Changes under other aspects require hand-holding.}
Change slot: 1
Inventory: Metal suitcase, mechanical soap, miniature fan.
Mina (lv0): Aspect of Time
{Limitations: 4 skills (Currently).}
Skills (!ERROR!) (Auto Input Activated): |1. Aging| |2. Time Exchange|
Inventory: A machete, mechanical soap.
Gwen (lv0): Aspect of Destruction
{Limitation: Gas only}
Inventory: Mechanical soap, Izzybot, P.T.A.
________________________________________________________________________________________
General Karnat anticipates a crucial call from a certain sub-general. His hands, trembling in mounting urgency, hover perilously over the device, threatening to descend in a thunderous blow.
Beep.
?? "Ummm, Hello. Karni? What the screws?! You have been calling for the past 7 hours! You know I'm busy right?! Don't you have anything better to do?"
KARNAT "What did yo- No, you're right. I should've been more productive. I was trying to talk to you about something, Cogarath."
AMARAZ "Oh, go ahead! By the way, those two are back. Want to talk with them?"
KARNAT "Nah, those immature bastards will just annoy me! I suggest you keep your voice low and hide our conversation."
AMARAZ ["Ok, got it. So what's the question?"]
KARNAT "Why does the teleport function not work on the wielders?"
AMARAZ ["What are you sayi- Oh. OH! I see what you were trying to do. Sorry to tell you this but you need their consent."]
KARNAT "What kind of ant shit is that?!"
AMARAZ ["Yeah, I know. I believe there's a line of code or script somewhere in The Universe that determine and sustain this function."]
KARNAT "That's suck! How does the consent thing work anyway?!"
AMARAZ ["Via contracts and signatures. All cultists and soldiers are required to sign a form before doing their perspective occupation. This function somehow knows this from anywhere in space-time."]
Karnat's breath escapes him in a weighty sigh, toes ready to strike against the floor. Yet, as the door behind creaks open, he restrains his intentions.
KARNAT "Sorry, I have to go."
AMARAZ "OK, Karni. Be careful out ther-
?? "KARNAT! YOU BASTARD! WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL US YOU WER-
KARNAT "Ok, enough of that. I have to admit... It is quite annoying on the other end. ANYWAY, WHAT IS IT?!"
Turning around, Karnat takes in the sight of a quivering soldier, prostrating on the floor.
"M-My Lord. T-T-They are back!"
Past the scrambling figure of the soldier, two familiar faces approach, striding into the room.
KARNAT "Good... how did it go?"
M124 "My Lord. I'm sorry to say... it was unsuccessful. The other Majors are currently occupied."
KARNAT "What?"
M115 "W-What she was trying to say is that they are being used by The First General."
KARNAT "WHY THAT SCHEMING TALL BA... Calm down. Calm down. You're telling me that all 114 of your remaining majors are being used by that prick."
M115 "Well, technically only 14 of them are being assigned."
KARNAT "THEN WHAT ABOUT THE REST?!"
M115 "Well, you see... how do I put this? On top of The Executioners, there is also The One Hundred Red Stingers that personally protect our leader."
KARNAT "Why does he need that many anyway?!"
M115 "Because each of them unlike us can't think for themselves and act like puppets that share the leader's mind. They work in sync and have nigh perfection coordination. On top of that, they all share the ability, "The Ten Insect Arsenals" and-
KARNAT "Blah blah blah! I GET IT!"
Slumping into his seat, Karnat turns to confront a grand map of Earth conjured before him. Arms folded firmly, he taps an impatient rhythm against the metallic floor.
KARNAT "Why does that tall asshole need the majors?"
M115 "He got the request from her holiness to help with conquering Aeternum."
KARNAT "AETERNUM! I... I guess I can forgive that. It looks like my next attack will be done the regular way. Gather me some minor cultists."
M124 "Sorry, for the parade of bad news, Sire. But even they are busy."
KARNAT "Oh, you're fucking with me! SERIOUSLY! What happened?!"
M124 "I don't know why but our members are being killed left and right by another group of cultists. Despite, the genetic modification of our Minors, these other cultists have higher numbers and are quite adept with sneak attacks."
KARNAT "Enough! Shit. I guess... just tell the soldiers to keep an eye out and note down more info on the targets. Also, M124. What is that thing you are holding?"
M124 "Oh right, I found it yesterday. It is supposed to be delivered to one of the wielders."
KARNAT "I recommend that you hide that then. We need as much pressure as we could on them."
________________________________________________________________________________________
A truck travels forward, tracing the calm sunny asphalt. Each road bump conjures memories of childhood camping adventures in Mina's mind. The Museum of Modern Art, a grand silhouette, gradually inches into her view, eliciting a smile.
Mina "Guys! We're here!"
Azan "Again, Mina. You don't have to yell. Let's park over there...Let's see... in front of that Taco shop."
With precision, she guides the truck, letting it glide into position. It rattles and shakes, like an oversized maraca in a lively fiesta. Her face scrunches, and she casts a glance backward. Her friends are serving her a cold buffet of stares.
Kanji "Was that really necessary, Mina?"
Mina "Whoops! I got a bit carried away. Sorry."
One after another, they emerge from the truck, inhaling deeply. Their journey's goal, just across the street, beckons.
Kanji "Did everyone get a good night's sleep?"
Dave "Bro, we were like sleeping in a truck. Heck yeah! We did!"
Gwen "Honest opinion, it was a tad bit cramped. And someone hasn't been using their mechanical soap lately."
Di/Sarah "Sorry about that."
Kanji "Ha. I guess we should get an RV next time. Ok, everyone prepare to-
Sarah "Wait! Not yet! We can't!"
Their eyes linger on Sarah. Her right hand grazes her left elbow in a casual stroke. Her gaze is rooted to the pavement, avoiding their eyes.
Sarah "I... I don't think we are ready. No... I'll be honest. It's more like I'm not ready."
Dave "Bro, weren't you like all laughing and shit yesterday?"
Sarah "I wasn't serious... just a bit unstable."
Kanji, with empathy shining in his eyes, offers her a comforting pat on the shoulder. Sarah lifts her gaze, greeting him with eyes brimming with unshed tears.
Kanji "The feeling of losing is painful. Isn't it?"
Dave "Yeah, it was our second L, bro."
Sarah "I...I... I want to learn how to fight! Hand to hand!"
Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.
Kanji "You're suggesting that we take time to improve... not a bad idea. Everyone! Let's get in the portal!"
Stepping into the pristine white void, they feel an instant shift in their surroundings. Dave and Diana scan the space, their expressions a canvas of bewilderment, standing out among the group.
Dave "Wow, didn't know how small it was, dude!"
Diana "Yeah, boss! Do we even have enough space to train?"
Kanji "We do as long as the ones who aren't participating stay in one of the corners. I say before we start, raise your hand if you lack hand-to-hand fighting experience."
Noah, Claire, Mina, and Sarah— their hands rise in unison.
Kanji "Amelia and Gwen. You two know how to fight hand to hand?"
Amelia "I didn't just learn how to use a knife and frying pan, lad."
Diana strides toward Amelia, her fist tightly coiled, her knuckles cracking in an oddly non-threatening manner.
Diana "Then prove to me, my friend."
Amelia "Very well. Your duel shall be accepted."
The onlookers retreat, creating a space for the two wielders to square off. Diana's eyes dart to Amelia's right hand shaping a chop, her left forming a defiant fist.
Diana "Interesting. Here I come!"
With a sudden rush, Diana propels her fist toward Amelia's head. In a fluid movement, Amelia raises her left arm, redirecting the oncoming punch. Diana's resolve wavers, startled by her seamless bravery. Her guard drops and Amelia delivers a swift jab to Diana's stomach.
Diana "Ouch! Fuck... that was amazing! It's like my fist bounced off you and you're not even scared."
Amelia "Truthfully, compared to Amber... you're not as terrifying."
Dave "OOOOOHH! That burn, bro!"
Diana "Shut up, Icarus!"
Kanji "Amelia, just how long were you fighting Amber?"
Amelia "I don't know, lad. It felt like time was quite meaningless during our bloody scuffle."
Kanji "Good, with this, I can confirm that you don't need training. What about you, Gwen?"
Gwen "Okay, I'm going to tell everyone the summary. I like to experiment a lot, especially with myself. At one point, I implanted a miniature Izzybot inside my brain which grew roots that attach themselves to my nervous system. The process of which took several months and I had to be pumped full with anesthesia constantly during the entire process. It was incredibly awful and somewhat embarrassing as the exiting process required me... to learn how to walk."
Claire "Jesus! Bestie, why?! You gonna have to stop hurting yourself."
Gwen "Relax, there was no pain. I say it was worth it because I can now communicate with Izzybot at any time and I can do... This!"
They gaze in awe as tendrils of brown veins make their dramatic appearance beneath the flesh of her legs. With a burst of energy, Gwen catapults into the air, executing six immaculate backflips before landing with grace, her balance unscathed.
Kanji "You went above and beyond. Your over-preparedness never ceases to amaze me. I'm assuming that you can also do perfect martial arts as well."
Gwen's lips curl into a smirk and she nods.
Kanji "Ok, now that it's confirmed. You four will be training. You can choose your trainer, aka one of us-
Sarah "I'll choose Amelia."
Amelia "Oh, that was fast! Why me, lass?"
Sarah "I choose you because your style is kinda assassin-ish. Super badass by the way."
Amelia "Aww, thanks for the flattery. Gonna warn ya, lass. My teaching can be bloody vicious."
Her words weaved an icy trail down Sarah's spine, compelling her to follow Amelia to a secluded corner of the subspace. Kanji scans the group. All lost in thought, save for Claire, who gifts him a sunny smile.
Claire "Can I choose you, Kanji?"
Kanji "Sorry, to tell you this but my combat style is a bit complex. It involves reading, predicting, and recognizing my enemies' attack patterns or actions. It has its flaws since the first experience can leave me vulnerable... as you may recall. And adaptability is also a necessity."
Claire "Ah, all that is very confusing. Then I'll choose... Diana!"
Diana "Woah, what?! Why though?"
Claire "I mean I'm not really good with remembering techniques. I just want to know brute strength!"
Claire's determined gaze ignites a flashback of Diana's early gym days. Fueled by Claire's words, Diana's spirit soars, and she responds with an enthusiastic thumbs-up.
Diana "Then what are you waiting for?! Follow me, comrade!"
Kanji "Alright, that's one more group done. Who's next?"
Noah "Er-
Mina "Oh! I call Azzy!"
Azan "I knew you would say that. Okay, follow me."
Azan steps away, prompting Mina to gleefully skip after him. A palpable awkwardness settles in the room as Kanji turns his gaze to Noah, who is rendered speechless by nervousness.
Kanji "... You're the last one, Noah. Please choose from the rest of us."
Noah "I... I don't know." "Dammit! I don't want to fight! It hurts and it is scary. Man, I wish I was Adrian and told the group that I'm also a pacifist."
Kanji "Indecisive, huh. Then, I'll be your instructor."
Noah "Wait, you? I thought you said tha-
Kanji "That doesn't mean that you will follow my combat style. I just happen to come up with a strategy that can benefit your strengths... Anyway, since it is done. Everyone else, please go to that corner and wait."
________________________________________________________________________________________
Kanji "... Should we begin or do you have questions? Don't be silent now. It is for your benefit."
AN "Yeah, don't be shy."
Kanji "AN, you're here. I thought you vanished again."
AN "Sorry, I saw that you guys are in the middle of something so I didn't want to disturb you. Anyway, I'm here and ready to help."
Noah "That's good. What is the strategy?" "..."
Kanji "Before we go there. I need to test something. Noah... hit me. Hit me as hard as you can!"
Noah "Woah, ok." "Shit, that was out of the blue! I have to do it or I'll break my act!"
Noah's fist lands in the center of Kanji's chest, narrowly missing his solar plexus. Kanji barely reacts, casually brushing his hand over the injured spot as he approaches.
Kanji "Hah, I knew it. You're the weakest physically among all of us."
Noah "Really." "Yeah, NO SHIT!"
Kanji "However, seeing your previous battle. Endurance and pain tolerance is your biggest asset. I recommend a deceit style of combat."
Noah "What?" "What do you mean?"
Kanji "I meant faking injuries from your opponent's attacks and striking their weak points when their guard is down."
Noah "Sounds cheap." "No, it is a good idea!"
Kanji "Cheap? We are talking about the real world here! Where you can die at any moment?! Speaking of which, when it comes to sneak attacks if you feel that something is off... bait them with the same strategy. Got it."
Noah "Ok." "Awesome, I feel so much more confident!"
Yellow particles radiate from Noah, catching Kanji's attention. A smile creeps onto Kanji's face as he raises his hands. Noah notices the adrenaline in Kanji's eyes, prompting him to charge forward.
Kanji "You must be excited. Well then... LET'S BEGIN!"
Before Noah could react, a blinding flash of light caught his attention, followed by a fist mere inches away. He takes the punch head-on, sending him flying backward. His body spins before crashing onto the floor. The pain was bearable, so he feigns injury.
Kanji feels a surge of pride, witnessing Noah's flawless deception. Seizing the moment, he charges forward, mimicking the actions of a foe. But just as he moved in... Noah leaps and lands a powerful punch right in Kanji's liver. The impact makes Kanji cough up blood.
Kanji "Go-G-Good job."
Noah "You ok?" "Shit! If Claire sees this, she'll kill me!"
Kanji regains his footing and composes himself. Noah notices a green glow emanating from Kanji's body, and the sight of it initiates the cessation of his coughing.
Kanji "Awesome. Now, for a pop quiz. Noah. Do you know all the weak points of a human?"
Noah "Liver. Dick. Eyes. and Nose."
Kanji "... The throat, the temple, the ear, the jaw, the solar plexus, the ribs, the spine, the toes, and with enough precision you can even dislocate the knee. However, you have to keep in mind that we are fighting modified humans so some parts may be off-limit."
Noah "What about Castastrians?" "Yeah, what about them?!"
AN "They don't really have that many major weaknesses except for the antennae and the buttocks because for some reason our livers are located there."
Noah "Didn't want to know that." "Ewwww, what the fuck?!"
Kanji "One last thing before we restart the training. What if your opponent is much more perceptive? Meaning they don't buy your bluff?"
Noah "You fake escaping."
Kanji "Exactly! They can't just let their target walk or crawl away so they will push in a position to attack. Now that the lessons are done. Time for actual practice!"
Noah gulps nervously as Kanji continues the cycle, unleashing a variety of different moves each time.
________________________________________________________________________________________
In a short moment, Claire glances over, catching a glimpse of the unfolding scene. Eagerly, she inches closer for a clearer view.
Claire "Who is fighting over the-
A mighty fist bonks her head, sending her tumbling down. Rubbing the impact spot, Claire swiftly rises, grinding her teeth in frustration.
Claire "What was that for?!"
Diana "You need to focus! No more distractions! Only training!"
Claire "What do I even have to do?!"
Diana "Well, the technique is easy. If your enemy is smaller than you punch their head. If your enemy is larger than you, punch their groin. You punch and kick, pushing your entire body to add weight to your hits."
Claire "Sounds easy enou-
Diana "I'm not done! If you aren't strong enough, they won't be knocked out and begin blocking. You don't want the long game. So... We are going to work on those biceps! But there are no weights here so we are going old fashion!"
Claire "Old fashion? Like wooden dumbbells?"
Diana "No, I mean 1000 PUSHUPS, 1000 SITUPS, 1000 SQUATS, AND 100 KM RUNNING EVERYTHING. SINGLE. DAY."
Claire "What the hell?! Am I trying to one-up someone?!"
Diana "Yeah... your enemies. Don't you want to protect the boss?"
Claire "I-I'll do it! For, Kaney!"
Diana "That's the spirit! We will wake up early every day. I already set an alarm on my phone. NOW GIVE ME 1000!"
Claire "Yes, MAAM!"
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Amelia "Those two sure are an excited bunch, aren't they?"
Sarah "Yeah, lol. But we can't fall behind!"
Amelia "Your eagerness is great. Raise your hand, lass. Block my attack."
Sarah swiftly forms a cross guard, but Amelia's lunge shatters it, landing a blow on her chest.
Sarah "AAAAAH! Huh? That didn't hurt."
Amelia "I stopped it before it did any bloody damage. That block was quite pathetic. No wonder, you lost."
Sarah "I... I know. Then what am I supposed to do?!"
Amelia "I'm going in again, lass. Try deflecting this time."
Amelia lunges again, her eyes locked on Sarah's arm expecting the strike. But to her surprise, Sarah's arm accurately predicted her move.
The thrust narrowly misses Sarah's throat by a hair's breadth.
Amelia "Honestly, not bad but that reflection was barren and knackered of power. Are you even trying, Sarah?"
Sarah "YES, I AM! I used all my strength! I'm... I'm not strong or anything."
Sarah collapses, overcome with tears. Amelia embraces her tightly, offering comfort like a nurturing mother consoling her child.
Amelia "There. There. Lass. You shouldn't be jumping to that bloody conclusion. Physical strength doesn't mean you're strong. Hey, let's try dodging."
Sarah steadies herself, brushing away her tears. Amelia resumes her stance, ready for another thrust. Sarah's trembling hands find relief in the pockets of her hoodie, providing a small sense of comfort.
With a swift dash, she aims for Sarah's head, but Sarah flawlessly avoids the attack.
Amelia "Excellent! Again!"
Amelia unleashes a relentless barrage of 47 attacks on Sarah, yet Sarah effortlessly evades each one with remarkable ease.
Amelia "Holy Chips! When did you become so good at dodging?!"
Sarah "I... I don't know. Wait. That one time when I was practicing with Claire."
Amelia "Oh yeah! That's right! You were dodging her soaps and bolts. Say, lass. How many did you dodge?"
Sarah "Basically, all of them. Except for when she snuck up on me"
Amelia "Good. From now on, don't block or reflect. Just dodge and counter. As for sneak attacks, I can't help you there. You just have to be more cautious when you feel that something is odd."
Sarah "Ok, easy enough. What about offense?"
Amelia "Ah, my bad. Totally forgot about that. Show me your weapon."
Sarah retrieves her ring and offers it to Amelia.
Amelia "Ummm, round... yet sharp. Sarah, you need to learn to transform your hands into your weapon. It doesn't have to have the same effect but it must resemble your weapon. I recommend turning them into claws."
Sarah "So... am I supposed to scratch people to death? Sounds awesome."
Amelia "Let's put it to the test. Shall we?"
Seizing the initiative, Sarah surges forward, unleashing a lightning-fast claw swipe.
Caught off guard, Amelia has no choice but to dodge the attack instead of blocking or countering. With wide grins on their faces, the two girls resume their sparring session.
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Immersed in the thrilling battles of their comrades, two wielders remain entranced, rooted to their spots. Time passes, and the stagnant spell is finally broken by Azan.
Azan "... W-We can't be behind! So, let us begin immediately."
Catching Mina's glance, Azan nods. Tapping his phone, two pairs of boxing gloves materialize out of nowhere.
Mina "Awwwww! You bought matching boxing gloves! Let me guess, the yellow ones are mine and the blue ones are yours!"
Azan "T-That was just a coincidence! That's all! Now. Pay attention!"
Putting on the boxing gloves, Mina locks eyes with Azan, her face conveying readiness for whatever lies ahead.
Azan "To be brutally honest, I didn't know much about boxing. Just some basics from my old man."
Mina "Like what, Azzy?"
Azan "Let's begin with the two things that make you a great boxer, footwork, and managing distance. Footwork is essential as it helps you dodge and weave around your opponent's attacks, leaving room for a counter. This requires focus, balance, and flexibility. Three things that he had me trained a lot of."
Mina "Must be quite torturous."
Azan "Yeah, but hey. I feel more confident when fighting because of it. Now for keeping your distance, the main ingredient is reaction time. Knowing to move before your opponent attacks. Now, I'll show a brief demonstration of basic footwork and distance management."
Mina settles into a seat, her attention unwavering as she observes Azan's movements and nimble dashes. Her focus is primarily on the rhythmic coordination of his feet.
She is beginning to believe.
Mina "I think I get it now!"
Azan "Wow! That was fast! Alright, I'll test you on that. Stand up and try to avoid my hooks."
Mina "I don't know what a hook is. But I'm ready!"
Azan unleashes a formidable right hook, but before it reaches halfway, Mina dodges.
Her remarkable reaction speed, especially from an amateur, is nothing short of astonishing.
Azan "Amazing. Are sure you have tried boxing before?"
Mina "No, Azzy! I don't even like boxing!"
Azan "Well, you going to like it because... This is your new fighting style!"
In the midst of his sentence, Azan swiftly dashes towards Mina, launching another hook.
To his amazement, she easily weaves around his punch as if time is slowed, leaving him a bit stunned.
Azan "Mina... Did you just use your abilities?"
Mina "No! I would never do that!"
Azan "I see so that can mean one thing. You have already perfect reaction, balance, focus, and flexibility. How is that possible?... Wait a minute."
Azan smacks himself in the face, causing concern in Mina. Reacting quickly, she rushes over and gently removes his hand from his face
Mina "What was that for?! Why are you hitting yourself ?! Did I... were you... perhaps... were jealou-
Azan "No, Mina! That's not like me. I just realise something."
Mina "What is it?"
Azan "Your past. How many mountains have you climbed? How many boats have you sailed? How many times have you flown across the world? Those experiences must have sharpened those four essentials."
Mina "Yeah, that makes a lot of sense."
Azan "However, that does not mean you get no practice. We will push it further. Now time for your choice of attack. Which would you prefer, Mina? Hooks or jabs?"
Mina "Hooks were what you were doing. I don't want to copy you so I'll choose jabs."
Azan "Nice choice, it fits your speed. Here's what it looks like."
Azan throws a single jab, and in that instant, Mina comprehends the technique.
Azan "Good. Let's begin a match."
________________________________________________________________________________________
Dave "It's sooooooooo boring, dude! Why didn't I get picked?!"
Gwen "Perhaps, your type of combat style is heavily reliant on instinct and experience."
Adrian "Now. Now. It could also be because it is hard to learn so they chose an easier way out."
Dave "Yo, true! Thanks, man. I feel much better. Also, Gwen... where is my drone?!"
Gwen "Ah, I almost to forgot to tell you that one of the cultists took it yesterday."
Dave "What the fuck?! Aww, man. What should I do now?!"
Adrian "Can't you buy one off Amazon?"
Dave "No, I can't! Because Jaff Bazos banned the sales of recording drones."
Gwen "Let me guess, I trolled him didn't you."
Dave "Not exactly, bros. I like made fun of one of Amazon's headquarters ONE TIME! And some parasocial andies began messing the shit up."
Gwen "Well, that's too bad. Because I'm not buying you another one."
Dave "Gwen, why?!"
Gwen "It is pointless and lacks value. It's nothing more than a distraction which we don't need in our current circumstances."
Dave "Damn. What should I do, man?! I can't just tell them that the show is canceled!"
Adrian "Oh, I got an idea. What about you promise them that when the show aka our adventure is over, you will hire people to create animated series out of it."
Dave "Bruh, that sounds awesome! But I can't remember shit and we need like photos and whatnot, dude."
Adrian retrieves a handbook and presents it to Dave, containing a concise summary of all the events that have transpired leading up to this moment, accompanied by vivid photos.
Dave "Dude! You even had time to take photos! This is awesome!"
Adrian "Yeah, I was hoping that you would be the one taking photos. If that is ok with you."
Dave "Heck, yeah! Of course!"
Gwen retreats to a quiet location, where she patiently waits for hours, faking a smile. However, her concealed sadness gradually seeps through, becoming evident to everyone around her.
AN "What's wrong, Gwen?"
Gwen "Everyone has a conversation buddy. I don't have one. Really shows my lack of social skills."
AN "Well... I can be your conversation buddy."
Gwen " R-Really. So what do you want to talk about?"
AN "Seeing you are a biologist and me having a fascination with Caverrin's wildlife. I say we discuss that."
Gwen "Awesome, I was curious about that raptor-like creature that the others fought."
AN "Aw, yes. The Blur Raptors. Pack hunters that attack from outside your peripheral vision. They are native to the shady blue plains of Caverrin. They are known for their incredible speed and skin which can be made into durable but extremely light leather."
Gwen "Are they physically strong?"
AN "They can do significant slashing damage as a group. But one-on-one, it could barely be considered a fatal threat since their main hunting tactics involves wearing their prey down and rescuing each other."
Gwen "Are any of the creature's other parts useful?"
AN "No, not really. But in recorded history, there used to be tribes that settled on the shady blue plains. They turned the creatures' teeth and claws into nasty-looking weapons. They also drank the creatures' blood as some kind of tradition. Sadly, they didn't last long, it is said they were overwhelmed by the sheer number of raptors. Today, not a single Castastrian lives on the shady blue plains."
Gwen "So, where do you all live?"
AN "We live on the silver mountains surrounding Sun's Bite Valley. The lucky ones get to live on the feet of the mountains that stretch so far that it can be considered its own unique terrain."
Gwen "Any vegetation? Tell more about the Acar trees."
AN "The Acar trees once formed the forests of my planet. Now, nearly all of them are gone. Their wood as I told you before was used to construct buildings."
Gwen "That's sad. Have you tried replanting or did your Empress not allow it?"
AN "No, Agriculture and food aren't our concern because of our biology. That's why we didn't bother planting like ever. EVER!"
Gwen "Woah! That was a sudden change of tone! What's wrong?!"
AN "We didn't know that it would affect the beautiful and majestic wildlife of Caverrin! So we protested and got rejected by the Empress which sparked early signs of rebellion. Well, I wasn't there physically since I wasn't born yet. But this is how I think it went down."
Gwen "Aw, that's good to hear. As a biologist, I'm glad that we-
Kanji "Everyone! The time is almost up! Let's get moving!"
Gwen "That's a shame. I wished I started this conversation earlier. It was fun, AN. Let's chat again sometimes."
AN "Sure. No problem"
Emerging from the portal, the group catches the attention of a nearby drunkard, who dismisses it as a figment of his imagination.
They confidently proceed towards the museum, their imposing presence commanding the attention of onlookers who quickly clear a path for them.
Kanji "Here it is. The Starry Nights."