It was still early. Mako was typically an early riser but even he was still asleep when the message came through.
----------------------------------------
Emergency Alert!
Merlin has initiated an emergency alert with the following message for all of those in leadership roles.
START MESSAGE – A Shin scout attempted to breach our reactor core room. Their intended goal is unclear. RETA was alerted when the scout unsuccessfully attempted to bypass the security panel. The scout was subdued and is currently held in the brig. RETA is searching for evidence of additional scouts by reviewing the recordings of internal cameras. For now, all rooms should be treated as unsecure. All communication should pass via text message. - END MESSAGE.
----------------------------------------
Mako’s eyes darted around the room with paranoia. He acknowledged the message. He stood up and tried to resist the urge to look around. Mako sent a message to RETA. START MESSAGE – RETA, what is the progress on the search for additional scouts? - END MESSAGE.
START MESSAGE – After reviewing footage from internal cameras, I believe I have located the position of 2 additional scouts. One is located in the Larder Storeroom. The other is located in an alcove near the armory. There is evidence of at least one more, but their position is unknown. - END MESSAGE.
START MESSAGE – Is the one in the Larder trying to poison our food supply? - END MESSAGE.
START MESSAGE – Unknown. It appears they might have eaten some of the food in the mess hall and are now experiencing digestion issues. - END MESSAGE.
START MESSAGE – Is Merlin working to capture them? - END MESSAGE.
START MESSAGE – We are moving people into position to contain them. We are waiting to see if we can determine the location of the fourth suspected intruder. - END MESSAGE.
Mako put on his armor and made his way to the Con. Skeet greeted him with a grim expression. None of the normal screens were up.
START MESSAGE – Hey Skeet. You should set up shared virtual screens. They won’t be able to see them but a lot of us with the correct hardware can. - END MESSAGE.
In a flash, Mako was able to see multiple views of Tedexa Goran. There was a line of spear adepts, other heavier armored warriors, and a few that looked like scouts. There were quite a few more dressed like scouts but had bows and quivers. The last group wore blood red cloth armor that looked like brigandine. It was still open down the back, and on their head to allow their plumage to show, although the arm spikes were noticeably absent. They also had wood batons on each hip.
Mako stared with disgust and some indignation at the Shins. They lied and their word was meaningless. Sometimes, people just have to learn the hard way. He hoped to himself that they weren't about to learn the hard way themselves.
START MESSAGE – What's the plan, Mako? - END MESSAGE. Skeet’s grimace had a feeling of despair.
START MESSAGE – So much for the whole "non-aggression pact." Fortunately, I figured this would happen. We follow the plan. We let them walk onto our turf and we show them what we can do. - END MESSAGE. Mako placed a reassuring hand on Skeet’s shoulder.
Skeet sighed. She was clearly not feeling very secure in that plan. It required the Shins to be within 1.5-2 km of the lander. If things went bad, that would be a lot of Shins relatively close to the lander.
START MESSAGE – Can you get me a count of all of the different types of units we are seeing? - END MESSAGE.
START MESSAGE – It looks like there are about 750 each of the Spear Adepts, Warriors, and Archers. 30 Scouts and 150 of the Stick People. It's about 2500 units. - END MESSAGE
START MESSAGE – If I were them, I would be feeling very confident too. We’ll see how valid that feeling is soon. - END MESSAGE. Mako saw something in his peripheral vision. A shimmer in the air like heat over rising over hot tarmac. He pretended like he was still watching over Skeet’s shoulder. He sent a new message to Merlin.
START MESSAGE – I think I see the fourth scout in the Con. I think I can grab him. Do we still have the other 2 cornered? - END MESSAGE.
Merlin replied. START MESSAGE - How certain are you? - END MESSAGE.
Mako explained what he saw, and Merlin responded that was likely the scout. Mako said to move on them in 1 minute.
START MESSAGE – Skeet, in 45 seconds, I need to you to move to the telemetry console and make a loud noise. I think the Scout is in here with us. When you distract him, I’ll get him. 30 seconds. - END MESSAGE.
Skeet stood, "I need to check something." She moved over to the other control. “Dammit!” And she pounded on the console. Mako saw the shimmer move.
Mako rounded and punched the shimmer. Something hit the wall and there was a grunt. The invisibility failed and the Shin was shaking their head. Before they could get their bearing Mako punched them in the head. Their head flicked back and slammed against the wall, and they dropped to the floor. Mako rolled them over onto their front and grabbed both arm spikes in one hand behind their back.
“Scout in Con secured.” Mako reported.
“Scout at Armory secured.” Mushishi announced.
“Scout in Larder secured.” Panzer reported. “Although they look like they are in bad shape.”
“Haardsuit was attacked in Cargo Bay. Scout neutralized.” Sprocket checked in.
“It appears there were more than 4.” Merlin stated.
“They typically work in squads of 6. It makes sense that there were 6 of them. I should have considered that 4 would be a weird number for them. There may be one more.” Mako replied.
“Something just ran out the front gate like a bat out of hell.” Medusa reported.
“Well, 4 captured, I killed, and one escaped.” Merlin said. “More importantly, no casualties.”
“Having one escape might work in our favor.” Mako said.
“Why is that?” Medusa asked.
Mako opted to reply in a message since he didn't want the scout to overhear, in case they were still conscious enough to understand. START MESSAGE - Those scouts are a genuine problem for us. But they are probably going to report back that we figured out a way to see through their invisibility. If we were attacked with a few hundred of those, we would face some significant casualties. - END MESSAGE.
“What do we do now?” Medusa asked.
“We are outnumbered 12 to one. But we seem to have an advantage on offensive and defensive capacity. I’m going to prep a welcoming party.”
----------------------------------------
Arkana stood near the back end of the Elder Lasher. It sat back on its haunches with its belly pressed against the wall. She had a tac-shield with the blade extended on her left arm and a machete on her right. She shifted back and forth with nervous anticipation.
Thaigoon came up with the idea that they should go back via the tunnels and kill these Lashers to level up. Mahina took it a step further and said they should each try to solo one of them in order to try and receive a Titanslayer Honormark. Plus, each of them soloing one should get them more than enough experience to hit level 18.
She looked back nervously at the group that was some distance away. Even through the gloom of nightvision at a distance, she could see Booster flash her his finger guns and then 2 thumbs up.
Ok, she told herself and took deep breath. Follow the plan and kill this thing.
Her hand clenched the machete in a reverse grip and leapt forward plunging the tip into the spine of the Elder Lasher. It screeched in pain and tried to shift its legs but only the one on the left moved at all and it mostly just twitched. Arkana lifted her left hand and made a swift vertical downward cut with the tac-shield blade. It severed through the thick cartilaginous material it used as a rib cage and severed all the nerves to the left leg. The back end went limp, but dirt was cascading down as it tried to pull itself up. Arkana pulled the machete out and still in a reverse grip, plunged it into the right side of the Lasher over and over and over. The screeching and roaring renewed. It shifted its weight and it bumped Arkana which sent her flying back.
Booster went to run to her. Mahina put her hand on him. “She’s fine. It’s dead already, it just doesn’t know it. She did it.”
Booster looked at her and nodded.
Arkana stood back up. She folded the Tac-Blade back into its housing. Gripped the machete in a reverse grip again in both hands and leapt at the side of the beast. It was an amazing jump only made possible by her extra points in Utility. She nearly hit the roof of the tunnel as her blade slid into the beast and gravity pulled her down. The side of the beast unzipped. Guts and blood poured out.
The beast whimpered and moaned a few times and twitched when it no longer could do that. Blood and gore pooled onto the floor. Soon, Arkana got a notification.
----------------------------------------
Congratulations!
You defeated an Elder Lasher (Tier 3 Level 35)!
Irragen points awarded!
----------------------------------------
You have earned 2 Honormarks!
-You are the first person to reach level 18 and to have the opportunity to choose a Phenotype! The Phenom Honormark increases the caliber of your Phenotype by one tier.
-You defeated an enemy more the 2 tiers above your level while fighting alone. The Giantslayer Honormark allows the Giantslayer ability to be used once a day to add 200% of your modified utility score to a melee strike.
----------------------------------------
You have acquired sufficient irragen to increase your level!
You are now Tier 1 Level 17.
You have acquired sufficient irragen to increase your level multiple times!
You are now Tier 1 Level 18.
This novel's true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.
You have 2 attribute points to distribute
Note: You have a total of 2 undistributed attribute points.
You have enough irragen to increase your level more, but you must choose your Phenotype before advancing past level 18. This will be done after your Phenotype is accepted.
Note: It is recommended that you apply any undistributed points before choosing your Phenotype since your current total points may have an effect on your available options.
Would you like to distribute your points now?
Y/N
----------------------------------------
Arkana selected ‘yes’. She looked at her sheet and quickly opted to add one point to Utility and one to Control. She accepted the changes, and the white light enveloped her.
Booster looked at her with excitement. “Well? What did you get?”
Arkana smiled. “Mahina was right. Well, sort of. I didn’t get the Titanslayer because the Lasher was only 2 tiers above me. I did get a Giantslayer Honormark for an enemy more than 2 tiers above me. She was also right about getting an Honormark for being the first to unlock the Phenotype. It’s called the Phenom Honormark and it increases the caliber of my Phenotype by 1 tier. I’m not sure what that means though.”
“Have you seen your options for a Phenotype yet?” Mahina asked.
“No, I had to complete the level 18 increase and distribute any remaining points. I guess that can affect my options. Let me see what my options are.”
Arkana brought up the current notification.
----------------------------------------
Congratulations!
You have reached level 18 and can now choose a Phenotype. Choosing a Phenotype will provide you with immediate abilities and provide a direction for how you may choose to evolve. The previous actions you have taken, your predilections, your work, your choices, and your physical and mental abilities, all factor into the options that will be presented.
The options will be presented 3 at a time, starting at the highest caliber available. You may choose one of those options or refuse all of them. None of these options will repeat. 3 more will be provided although they may not be of the same caliber and may be of a lower caliber. The higher the caliber, the higher the number of attributes assigned at each level up, and the more powerful your abilities will be.
If you keep refusing options, you will only be left with lowest caliber Phenotypes. One might not choose a Phenotype and attempt to change their options by doing something different. If this is done, you will not be able to level until a Phenotype is chosen and irragen will not be held. Additional options may become available.
You can reset your phenotype at any time. This will result in the loss of all levels, Honormarks, and gained attribute points. You will begin again at Tier 1 Level 1.
Choose from the following 3 options.
Option 1
Floramancer - Enhanced (+3 AP/level)
Botanic Analysis – Determine the harmful/helpful properties of all flora by sight, touch, taste, and smell. Sampling the flora will provide information about its chemical makeup and potential for basic refinement. User is immune to all unrefined harmful organic compounds of all plant life and 25% resistant to all plant based organic attacks.
Living Armor – While touching some type of plant life, the User initiates an effect where the User is shrouded in the plant. Armor moves normally with the User and flora maintains any natural harmful effects (bolstered by the power score of the User) and resistances, as well as weaknesses (reinforced by the control score of the User). Durability of armor is the Control score of the User and calculated as Durability. Lasts until the armor takes too much damage or is released by the User. (Cooldown 10 minutes from when the effect ends.)
Vine Snare – The ground erupts with vines and snares an enemy to limit or slow their movement. The limit of the distance from the User in which the effect can be initiated depends on the Control Score of the User and line of sight (1 meter per point of Control). The area and Durability depend on the Power score. Vines will initially be at the same tier and level as the User for an area 3 meters in diameter. The wider the area, the less durable the vines. Effect ends when the vines are destroyed, or the effect is ended by the User. (Cooldown is 3 minutes from when the effect ends.)
Option 2
MetaMistrix - Enhanced (+3 AP/Level)
Dominating Aura – User radiates an aura of fear and submission. This aura invokes the ‘fight or flight’ instincts of the target and meaning some targets may become enraged. A higher combined Control and Power score tends to push the Target towards fear and submission. The area of effect is determined by the Control score of the User (1 meter/point). The Duration depends on the Power score of the User (1 point per second per target per target tier). Additional Power points can be added to overcome a higher tier or resistance. This is more effective on beasts rather than sapient species. Note: Submitted subjects cannot be forced to do anything but submit.
Bondage – The User can restrain any submitted, lower tier, or unconscious, entity with irragenic bonds in a variety of configurations with a touch. Any attempt to restrain an unsubmitted entity will result in a contest of combined Control and Power scores. Bonds last until the User ends the effect, loses consciousness, the bondaged becomes too far from the User (1 km), or the target otherwise overcomes the combined Control/Power of the User.
Techno-whip – User can attune to any whip-like weapon. This will change the whip into a cybernetic type of device. The whip can add stunning or painful effects, lengthen, and be used to extend the User's touch in addition to doing physical damage. The effects of the stun or pain effects depend on the User's Power score. Damage to the Techno-whip will repair over time.
Option 3
Scout Sniper – Enhanced (+3 AP/Level)
Ghillie Field – This Field surrounds the User and allows the User to blend in with the environment. It provides no resistance to damage and is most effective when the User is stationary. The effect of the Field depends on the Control score of the User. If the Observer has a higher Control score, the Field consumes 30% of the difference/second. If the User is moving, the Field consumes 3 power/second and for a minimum of 3 seconds. Power recoups at the same rate. When the User is not moving and not observed, the Field consumes no Power.
Vulnerability Scan – This allows the User to examine a target for vulnerabilities that can be exploited. Range is determined by the Control score (10 meters/point). Power is consumed at a rate of 3/second. Time for a reading depends on the tier of the Target compared to the User. Higher Tiers will require a longer examination. NOTE: There is a chance that a Target with double the Control of the User will notice the examination.
Firing Solution – This allows the User to aim at the Target for 3 seconds and fire a projectile that cannot miss the Target. Range is determined by the Control score of the User (10 meters pers point). Points of Power can be added to the shot to add damage and overcome any potential hinderance from armor, barriers, or shields. NOTE: There is a chance that a Target with double the Control of the User will notice the targeting.
Please choose one option or refuse all.
----------------------------------------
Arkana smiled at the first option. It felt custom made for her. Which, she supposed, it was. The second one felt...a little intrusive. At the same time, she kind of liked it. It did suit her predilections. Her face scrunched up in the clash of reactions.
“What?” Booster asked. “Something bad?”
Arkana looked at her current lover a little slack-jawed with the realization of sharing this and glanced over at Thaigoon, who was a previous lover who kind of already knew. This was uncomfortable. She set her mind to navigating through these dicey interpersonal waters.
“No, just a little surprising how much goes into forming these options.” After a moment, she decided that she was comfortable enough with herself that she could reveal the second option to them along with the other 2. It was a very attractive option, but just not as much as the first one. She might need some alone time later. She copied the text of the options and sent them to the party.
Booster started reading. “Wow, Floramancer is so cool and so useful, right?” He beamed a smile at Arkana. “Are you going to choose that one?”
“Oh my.” Mahina said quietly.
Thaigoon coughed and choked. He tried to clear his throat.
Booster frowned a little while looking at them and continued reading.
“I quite like the second option.” Mahina said with a broad smile.
“I know, right?” Arkana giggled a little maniacally. “I’ll probably go with the first one though.”
She glanced over at Thaigoon. He shrugged and put up his hands defensively as if to say, “no comment”. She winked at him.
“Oh,” Booster glanced at Arkana. “I feel like we should talk.”
“Mmm. Later.” she said with a grin and a breathy voice. “I think I’m going to choose Floramancer.”
“While not mentioning option 2, option 3 seems like a weird option for you? Scout Sniper?” Booster asked.
“I think it was an option because I wanted ranged damage and I have a high control score. That class does seem to fit the bill. I do kind of wonder what my next 3 options would be but it’s not worth passing up 2 really good options.” Arkana said.
“2 really good options?” Booster asked.
“Aside from the connotations, MetaMistrix seems like a very powerful Phenotype.” Mahina commented.
Booster looked a Thaigoon questioningly to get his opinion. Thaigoon shrugged and held up his hands again. “I, uh...You...uh...” He glanced at each of them. “What Mahina said.”
“It’s not important. I’m choosing Floramancer.” Arkana said and chose it.
----------------------------------------
Congratulations!
You have chosen the Phenotype: Floramancer!
Your Phenom Honormark has increased the caliber of your Phenotype from Enhanced to Superior!
Your Phenotype description is as follows:
Floramancer - Superior (+4 AP/level)
Botanic Analysis – Determine the harmful/helpful properties of all flora by sight, touch, taste, and smell. Sampling the flora will provide detailed information about its chemical makeup and potential for basic refinement. User is immune to all unrefined harmful organic compounds of all plant life and 35% resistant to all plant based organic attacks.
Living Armor – While touching some type of plant life, the User initiates an effect where the User is shrouded in the plant. Armor moves normally with the User and flora maintains any natural harmful effects (bolstered by the power score of the User) and resistances, as well as weaknesses (reinforced by the control score of the User). Durability of armor is the Control score of the User and calculated as Durability. Lasts until the armor takes too much damage or is released by the User. (Cooldown 5 minutes from when the effect ends.)
Bleeding Vine Snare – The ground erupts with vines and snares an enemy to limit or slow their movement as well as cause bleeding cuts to unarmored skin. The range of the effect depends on the Control Score of the User and line of sight (1 meter per point of Control). The area and Durability depend on the Power score. Vines will initially be at the same tier and level as the User for an area 4 meters in diameter. The wider the area, the less durable the vines. Effect ends when the vines are destroyed, or the effect is ended by the User. (Cooldown is 3 minutes from when the effect ends.)
Note: AP gains per level from Tier 1 level 19-36 will be increased by 3 to account for Phenotype AP gains not given in level 1-18.
----------------------------------------
You have acquired sufficient irragen to increase your level multiple times!
You are now Tier 1 Level 21.
You have 21 attribute points to distribute
Note: You have a total of 21 undistributed attribute points
Do you accept these changes? Y/N
----------------------------------------
Arkana affirmed her decision. She began to glow with bright white light. A brighter point formed at the top of her head which formed a horizontal line as it slowly traveled down her body. The white line sparkled as it moved and faint drone of noise could be heard. Finally, it reached the bottom and all the light dissipated.
Arkana didn’t look any different, but she felt invigorated. “That tingled.” She brought up her Stats to add her points. She hadn’t expected her ability to gather Attribute points to change but she was suddenly flush with them. And her Power score was now unlocked. It was a base score of 5 with a modified score of 8.
With 21 points at her disposal, she set both Control and Power at a modified score of 20. She also made Utility a score of 20. That left her with 6 points. She added 3 each to Durability and Vigor. Now her Stats looked like this.
----------------------------------------
Name: Arkana
Variant class: 3
Tier: 1
Level: 21
PHENOtype: Floramancer
Attributes
Stats Score Modified Durability 8 12 Utility 15 20 Vigor 8 12 Control 13 20 Power 17 20
Attribute points to distribute: 0
----------------------------------------
Arkana looked at the rest of the party and with a brilliant smile said, “Who’s next?”