I walked through the desolate streets, my eyes scanning for any sign of movement. The city was a shell of its former self, the once-bustling metropolis now a desolate wasteland of crumbling buildings and rubble-strewn streets. I had to admit, the apocalyptic vibe of the Server was eerily cool, but at the same time, it made my skin crawl. The only noise breaking the heavy silence was the occasional caw of a crow or the distant clatter of a SCAV picking through debris.
I checked my Interface, searching for the heat signatures of low-level SCAVs. I needed the combat experience, and Aubrey insisted I start small. "Don't bite off more than you can chew," she had said, her voice stern but filled with concern. I sighed. It was easier said than done. Most of the SCAVs I'd come across were far beyond my capabilities.
The air was heavy with the smell of decay, and the wind carried the distant echoes of unseen battles. Occasionally, I'd hear the distant hum of an Assembler, a large flying ship that scooped up the remains of defeated SCAVs to later repurpose into new ones.
My Interface suddenly flashed, indicating two SCAVs a few blocks away.
Name Scavenger SPR-1 Type Machine Threat Level Easy
They were weak, but they'd be perfect for practice. I felt a smile tug at my lips as I quickened my pace. The wind picked up, whipping my hair around my face as I approached the SCAVs' location.
I crouched behind a rusted car, taking a moment to assess the situation. The two SCAVs were salvaging parts from a demolished car, their mechanical limbs clanking and whirring as they worked. They didn't notice me, and I took a deep breath to steady my nerves.
My Interface produced a health bar for whatever SCAV I was focused on.
Name Scavenger SPR-1 Type Machine Threat Level Easy Health 80
I glanced at my status screen. Somehow, looking at my numbers made me feel more confident compared to not knowing exactly what I was capable of. I managed to recall most of the lessons I learned during basic training all those years ago thanks to training with Aubrey. Thanks to that, my skill in firearms started at a Novice rank rather than Apprentice.
Skill Name Firearms Rank Novice Bonus +4 to Ranged Attack using any firearms
Ranged Attack 26 ⇧⇧
"Okay, Connor, time to take these rust buckets down," I whispered to myself, gripping my SMG tightly. I peered around the car, my finger hovering over the trigger.
A gentle ping rang in my ear, and Aubrey's voice came through the Interface. "Remember, aim for their vulnerable spots: joints, sensors, and power cores. Good luck."
I took a deep breath, leaned out of cover, and squeezed the trigger.
Attack Hit. Automatic Critical Hit from surprise attack. You deal 94 damage (90 Kinetic, 4 Electromagnetic)
You gained 100 Experience Points
The SMG roared to life, spitting out bullets that tore into the nearest SCAV. Its movements became erratic as I targeted its joints, and soon, it collapsed in a heap of sparking metal.
The other SCAV immediately registered my presence, its sensors locking onto me. It charged, but I was ready for it.
I unleashed another hail of bullets, striking its power core and sending it crashing to the ground.
Attack Hit. Critical Hit to the weak point. You deal 94 damage (90 Kinetic, 4 Electromagnetic)
You gained 100 Experience Points
"Nice shooting," Aubrey praised me through the Interface.
I grinned, standing up and stepping over the wreckage of the defeated SCAVs. My heart raced with adrenaline, but I tried to keep my focus. I rummaged through their remains, finding a few useful items: ammunition, scraps of metal, and a slightly damaged energy cell.
I pocketed the loot and moved on, my eyes scanning the horizon for my next target. I couldn't help but feel a surge of confidence. Maybe I was starting to get the hang of this.
----------------------------------------
As I ventured deeper into the city, I came across a small group of Riftspawns skulking around a collapsed building. Their grotesque forms sent a shiver down my spine, but I knew I had to face them.
Name Riftspawn SPR-1 Type Biological Threat Level Easy Health 85
I positioned myself behind a crumbling wall, peeking out to get a clear shot at the Riftspawns. I fired off a few rounds, causing them to scatter for cover. So far, so good. But as I continued to pick them off, I noticed one trying to flank me.
I scrambled to find a new cover. "Well, this just got interesting," I muttered, trying to ignore the fear that threatened to overtake me. I crouched behind a pile of rubble, taking a moment to steady my breathing.
"Stay calm, Connor," Aubrey advised me. "Use the environment to your advantage. You can do this."
I nodded, even though she couldn't see me. I surveyed my surroundings, my eyes narrowing as I spotted an overturned car. It could serve as a makeshift barricade, buying me some time to pick off the remaining Riftspawns.
I sprinted to the car and hunkered down behind it, the cold metal pressing against my back. The Riftspawns snarled and hissed, their beady eyes filled with malice. I raised my SMG, taking aim at the nearest one.
"You want some of this?" I yelled, pulling the trigger. The SMG roared to life, spitting out bullets that tore into the Riftspawn's hide.
Attack Hit. You deal 51 damage (49 Kinetic, 2 Electromagnetic)
It screeched in pain and staggered back, giving me the chance to finish it off with the next burst.
You gained 150 Experience Points
I grinned, my confidence growing. "That's what I thought!"
I continued to engage the Riftspawns from behind my makeshift barricade, ducking and weaving to avoid their attacks. I managed to take down two more before the one that had tried to flank me finally made its move.
You gained 150 Experience Points You gained 150 Experience Points
It lunged at me from the side, its claws slashing through the air. I barely managed to dodge, rolling away and scrambling to find new cover. I could hear Aubrey's voice in my ear, urging me to stay focused.
"Keep moving, Connor! Don't let them corner you!"
I nodded, my breath coming in ragged gasps as I sprinted away from the Riftspawn. I ducked behind a crumbling wall, using it as a vantage point to take down another Riftspawn with a well-placed shot.
You gained 150 Experience Points
I didn't have time to celebrate my small victory, though. The remaining Riftspawns were closing in. I knew I had to think fast.
I glanced around, spotting a fire escape clinging to the side of a nearby building. It was risky, but it might just give me the advantage I needed.
I sprinted for the fire escape, my legs pumping furiously as I tried to put some distance between myself and the Riftspawns.
"Alright, time to put my powers to good use," I whispered to myself. I focused on the shadows around me, feeling the familiar chill of darkness seeping into my limbs.
I sprinted towards the fire escape, feeling the energy building up inside of me. Just as I reached the edge of the building, I released the energy in a burst, propelling myself into the air. The shadows around me seemed to surge upward, carrying me with them as I soared towards the fire escape.
Mana 222⇩ /230
I grabbed onto the bottom rung, my fingers grasping the rusty metal as I pulled myself up.
The Riftspawns snarled in frustration, unable to reach me. I grinned, taking aim at the nearest one and firing off a round. It screeched in pain, its body spasming before it collapsed to the ground.
You gained 150 Experience Points
I continued to pick off the Riftspawns from my perch, my confidence growing with each successful shot. I could hear Aubrey cheering me on, her words of encouragement spurring me to keep fighting.
"You're doing great, Connor! Just a few more to go!"
You gained 150 Experience Points You gained 150 Experience Points You gained 150 Experience Points
I stood atop the fire escape, my chest heaving as I caught my breath. The last of the Riftspawns lay dead at my feet, its twisted body crumpled and lifeless. I glanced down at the carnage below, feeling a strange mixture of pride and nausea.
"Not bad, rookie," Aubrey's voice crackled in my ear. "Your aim could use some work, but you're getting the hang of it."
I couldn't help but grin at her praise. "Thanks. Guess all those hours playing Call of Duty paid off, huh?"
She laughed. "Maybe so. Now, take a breather and check the bodies for loot. Remember, supplies are scarce in this world, so scavenge whatever you can."
I nodded, carefully making my way back down the fire escape. I knelt down, prying a partially crushed backpack that dangled from one of the Riftspawn’s spiked tail.
As I rummaged through the backpack, I found a handful of bullets, some spare parts for my SMG, and even a few energy bars. The energy bars tasted like chalk, but they'd keep me going.
Moving on to the other Riftspawn, I found a small satchel hanging from its shoulder. Inside, I discovered a variety of items, including a crumpled map, a broken flashlight, and a half-empty water bottle.
After I'd collected everything I could carry, I found a quiet spot to rest. I leaned against a crumbling wall, my back aching and my legs trembling with fatigue. I closed my eyes, letting the adrenaline wash out of my system.
"So, what's the plan now?" I asked Aubrey, my voice tired and shaky. "More hunting, or do we call it a day?"
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She was quiet for a moment before replying. "I think you've earned a break, Connor. Besides, I want to go over some of the mistakes you made today. We can't have you getting killed out here, now can we?"
I chuckled. "No, I suppose not."
I listened as she critiqued my performance, pointing out areas where I could improve and offering suggestions for next time. It was humbling, but I knew she was only trying to help. I took her words to heart, determined to do better in the future.
As our conversation wound down, I couldn't help but feel a pang of loneliness. I'd been in Nexus for barely over a week, and while I was grateful for Aubrey's help, I missed my old life. I missed my friends, my family, and the comfort of a world that made sense.
"I, uh... I appreciate everything you're doing for me, Aubrey," I said, my voice suddenly thick with emotion. "I know I'm not much of a fighter, but I promise I'll get better. I won't let you down."
She was silent for a moment before replying, her voice soft and reassuring. "You've got a lot of potential, Connor…and I'm not just saying that because I'm your coach. You'll get the hang of this world soon enough, I promise."
I smiled, feeling a little better. "Thanks, Aubrey. That means a lot."
After a few more minutes of rest, I pushed myself to my feet. My body ached, but I was ready to move on to the next hunt.
"Alright," I said, clapping my hands together. "Let's get back to it. I've got a lot to learn, and I'm not getting any better sitting here."
Aubrey chuckled. "That's the spirit, rookie. Let's see what you're made of."
----------------------------------------
I moved deeper into the ruined city, my eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of Riftspawn. I came across an office building, its once-gleaming glass facade shattered and its walls marred by graffiti. A group of Riftspawn milled about outside, snarling and snapping at one another.
Name Riftspawn ERV-1 Type Biological Threat Level Easy Health 80
"Alright, I've got a plan," I whispered to Aubrey, ducking behind a nearby car. "I'll head up to the third floor of the building and take them out from above."
"Sounds good," she replied. "Just be careful. Riftspawn might not be the smartest creatures, but they're not entirely mindless, either. If they catch on to what you're doing, they might try to come after you."
I nodded, sneaking around to the back of the building. The door was locked, but a swift kick with my boot sent it flying open. I crept inside, my footsteps muffled by the thick layer of dust that coated the floor.
The building had once been an office, its abandoned cubicles and conference rooms now empty and silent. I made my way to a stairwell and climbed the concrete steps. When I reached the third floor, I found a shattered window that offered a clear view of the Riftspawn below.
I took a deep breath, steadying myself. This time, I was further away from my targets. I recalled Aubrey teaching me that the System can calculate how likely I am to hit my target based on hip fire or ADS.
Weapon: Infused SMG Hit Chance Short Range 54% Medium Range 40% Long Range 20%
If I actually spent time to aim, the chances would increase.
"Here goes nothing," I muttered, raising my SMG and aiming down the sights. Surprise attacks always landed a critical hit.
Chance to hit the current target (Medium Range) 50% ⇧ Chance to hit the current target (Medium Range) 62% ⇧ Chance to hit the current target (Medium Range) 74% ⇧ Chance to hit the current target (Medium Range) 89% ⇧
Good enough. I squeezed the trigger, sending a burst of gunfire into the group of Riftspawn below.
Attack Hit. Critical Hit from surprise attack. You deal 102 damage (98 Kinetic, 4 Electromagnetic)
You gained 150 Experience Points
One of them went down immediately, its body spasming before going limp. The others scattered, searching for cover. I grinned, feeling a thrill of satisfaction. "Got one!"
"Nice shot," Aubrey said, her voice tense. "But don't get cocky. You've still got a few more to deal with."
I nodded, firing off another burst of shots. I hit another Riftspawn, but it didn't go down. Instead, it howled in pain and fury, limping away from the window. I gritted my teeth, frustrated.
And then I heard it: the sound of shattering glass from somewhere behind me. I spun around, my heart leaping into my throat. The remaining Riftspawn had figured out my plan and were now charging through the building in search of me.
"Aubrey, they're inside!" I hissed, my voice panicked. "What do I do?"
"Stay calm," she replied, her voice steady. "Use your knowledge of the building to your advantage. Find a place where you can bottleneck them, and take them out one by one."
I nodded, my mind racing as I tried to remember the layout of the building. There was a narrow hallway just around the corner, lined with small offices on either side. If I could lure the Riftspawn there, I'd be able to funnel them into a choke point and pick them off with relative ease.
I sprinted down the hall, my footsteps echoing through the empty building. I could hear the Riftspawn snarling and growling behind me, their footsteps heavy and fast. I ducked into one of the offices, crouching behind a desk and waiting for them to come to me.
As the first Riftspawn rounded the corner, I sprang into action, my SMG roaring to life.
You gained 150 Experience Points
The Riftspawn snarled as my bullets tore into it, collapsing in a heap at the entrance to the office. But there was no time to celebrate; another Riftspawn charged in, its teeth bared and eyes burning with rage. I squeezed the trigger, but my SMG clicked empty. "Damn it!"
"Connor, use your powers!" Aubrey shouted in my ear. I didn't need to be told twice.
Mana 212⇩ /230
Focusing my thoughts, I summoned a Shadow Wall between me and the oncoming monster. The Riftspawn slammed into the barrier, its claws scrabbling at the inky blackness. I took the opportunity to swap magazines, slamming a fresh one into my gun.
You gained 150 Experience Points
As the wall dissipated, I let loose another burst of gunfire, taking down the second Riftspawn. But there were still more coming, their growls echoing through the empty office building. I retreated further down the hall, trying to maintain some distance between me and my pursuers.
I heard the sound of skittering claws on the floor and spun around, sending a Shadow Blast towards the source. The Riftspawn shrieked as it was enveloped in darkness, its body dissolving into black smoke. "Nice, two left."
Mana 200⇩ /230
Attack Hit. Critical Hit. You deal 94 Umbral Damage.
You gained 150 Experience Points
"Keep it up," Aubrey encouraged. "You're doing great!"
The remaining Riftspawn burst through a door, catching me off guard. I stumbled back, narrowly avoiding its snapping jaws. My back hit the wall, and I knew I was running out of room to maneuver. I had to think fast.
Mana 193⇩ /230
I threw a Shadow Spike Trap down at my feet, hoping to catch the Riftspawn off guard. It lunged at me, but instead of making contact, it howled in pain as it landed on the shadowy spikes—briefly stunning it. I didn't waste any time, finishing it off with a point-blank shot from my SMG.
You gained 150 Experience Points
"One more," I muttered, scanning the hallway for the final Riftspawn. I could hear it skittering through the shadows, its growls low and menacing. My hands were shaking, my adrenaline pumping. This was it.
I turned a corner and found myself face-to-face with the last Riftspawn, its beady eyes fixed on me. There was nowhere left to run. I focused my energy, feeling the shadows gather around me as I prepared to launch a Shadow Blast.
But the Riftspawn was faster. It lunged at me, its claws slashing through the air. I had no choice but to dodge to the side, feeling a searing pain as the creature's claws raked across my arm.
You've taken 34 Kinetic damage
Health 201⇩ /235
"You okay?" Aubrey asked over the comm.
"I'm fine," I grunted through clenched teeth. "Just need to finish this."
I gathered the last of my strength, my vision narrowing as I focused on the Riftspawn. With a roar, I unleashed a Shadow Blast that slammed into the creature, knocking it back into the wall. It slumped to the ground, defeated.
Mana 181⇩ /230
Attack Hit. Critical Hit. You deal 96 Umbral Damage.
You gained 150 Experience Points
I let out a ragged breath, collapsing against the wall as the adrenaline began to fade. I was battered, bruised, and exhausted, but I'd made it. I was alive.
"Good job, Connor," Aubrey said softly. "You did it."
I managed a weak grin. "Yeah," I replied. "I guess I did."
My Interface flashed messages on my peripheral.
Name Connor Gallagher WID x0byj73pw95 Age 32 Class Kineticist Specialization Umbrakinesis Rank Neophyte I Experience 2300/2000
Experience Points: 2300/2000 You've gained a new Rank: Neophyte II You have 1 Stat point to distribute You have unlocked one new Umbrakinesis ability The next rank will be Neophyte III You will require 4000 Experience to advance in rank
----------------------------------------
I sat on the edge of a broken fountain in the middle of the ruined city, examining the gashes on my arm from the Riftspawn's claws. To my surprise, the pain was already fading, and the wounds seemed to be closing up on their own. I couldn't help but marvel at the resilience of my body since I'd arrived in Nexus.
"This is insane," I muttered, flexing my arm to test its mobility. "Back on Earth, I would have needed stitches or even surgery for something like this. And I'd definitely be worried about infections."
Aubrey's voice came through the Interface, speaking nonchalantly. "Yeah, it's one of the perks of being a Player here. Our bodies are much more durable than those of normal humans. Injuries that would take weeks or even months to heal back on Earth are gone within days."
I shook my head in amazement. "But why? What's different about us?"
Aubrey chimed in, her tone thoughtful. "No one really knows. Some people think it's a side effect of being transported to Nexus, while others think it's just part of the way the System works. All we know for sure is that it's a valuable asset in this crazy world."
I nodded, mulling over this newfound knowledge. "So, what about more serious injuries? Like losing a limb, for example. Do we heal from those, too?"
"Unfortunately, no. While our bodies can handle minor to moderate injuries with ease, debilitating injuries like severed limbs or massive internal damage can still be fatal. We're tougher than normal humans, but we're not invincible."
Her words were a sobering reminder that, despite my newfound abilities and the strange resilience of my body, I was still vulnerable. I'd need to stay vigilant and continue honing my skills if I wanted to survive.
With a deep breath, I stood up and dusted myself off. "Well, I guess I'd better get back to training, then," I said, determination coursing through me.
Aubrey's voice came through the Interface, filled with encouragement. "That's the spirit, Connor—but I think that’s enough for today. I don’t want you sticking around as it gets dark. It’ll be a different kind of combat environment. So just head back to the safe house.”
I rubbed my neck. She has a point. “Yes, coach.”