Science-based skills typically relied on materials or energy to function, while Cognition skills often imposed limitations or drained the user's mental resources. The effectiveness of any skill was heavily influenced by timing and situational factors, sometimes even more so than sheer raw ability.
Toru turned to Hitomi. “What about your matter reconstructor? Is it still functional?”
Hitomi’s face fell. She looked away, clearly embarrassed. “Well…”
Toru could tell that the matter reconstructor was likely lost or damaged in some goofy manner. He decided not to press further. “Nuff said.”
“Don’t feel bad about it,” he reassured her. “We need to focus on the task at hand. To secure this objective, there are two critical things we need to accomplish, so pay close attention.”
Engaging in the objective without proper equipment or weapons would be a grave mistake. The immediate challenge was to either eliminate or drive away other participants in their vicinity. However, their current offensive capabilities were insufficient, especially with the mechanical dogs patrolling the area.
Stolen novel; please report.
Taking on their opponents head-on in their current state would be futile. Therefore, their secondary objective was equally important. “We need to secure an energy source and at least 2 Steel Bars. Without these, our efforts would be in vain.”
They both took a moment to observe the surroundings through a window after the initial barrage of bullets and the patrols had quieted down. Toru activated his Fieldread skill, while Hitomi used her wind control to scout the area. Their immediate goal was to locate a “Dispenser”—a device where participants could withdraw various resources using accumulated points. Fortunately, Toru had amassed a good amount of points.
The Dispenser was crucial as it would allow them to obtain the materials needed for their equipment and enhance their chances of success. The current objective was to avoid detection and strategically find the Dispenser while managing their limited resources and skills.
Toru knew that a combination of his tactical planning and Hitomi’s unique abilities would be essential in navigating the Misty Trenches and overcoming the challenges ahead. They needed to act swiftly and smartly to secure their resources and gain an upper hand in the trials.