Chapter 15

Is It A Bird, A Plane? No, It's Superman!

The four of us, remaining on our little team, drove to the northernmost mountain, which blocked the way to the boat. Upon arriving, we were shocked to see two major things. Okay, one of us was shocked because the others were born here and had heard about the mountain, which was closer to a wall. In general, it had the shape of a mountain at the peak, which was incredibly high, but the face of the mountain was a solid, slick wall. This was no mountain. It was an artificial barrier.

The second thing we saw was one of those giant monsters that eat skyscraper-like treetops attempting to climb this wall. Even with its massive strength, it was angrily growling because it couldn't punch holes into the wall to use to climb with.

"How the hell did a Troglidite get this deep into the northern territories without being reported?" Jaxon asked.

"It is a small chance, but it could've spawned here," VeLana responded.

"Hmph. Let's just kill it already," Akoth stated.

"And how do you propose to do that?" Jaxon questioned. "This thing is larger than any Kordra known in existence and nigh impenetrable."

"That may have been with normal levels of Astra, but we all know we're far higher than any being before us. At least, I'm guessing we are." I wasn't too knowledgeable on all the past Divine Blessing users, but just from my personal experience with some of the strongest S+ Rankers and their total Astra compared to ours now, I felt somewhat confident in my words. "So, we should be able to kill this thing and then figure out how to scale this barrier."

"Scaling the barrier will be tricky. For starters, there is a sign that explains the unique requirements to beat this challenge. However, all those who have beaten it never had the chance to pass on that knowledge because they left this, ah, layer of existence," Jaxon stated.

"All that comes later. For now, we kill this monster. And my suggestion is to just take out the legs and topple it, then it'll be easier to bash in the head," Akoth gave his battle suggestion.

"I'm honestly okay with that plan," I said.

VeLana and Jaxon moved far back, approximately where they thought the head would be when it fell over, while Akoth and I took one leg each and began our race to see who could topple this thing the quickest. News flash: I won.

I activated every single Skill and Ability that could be channeled through a massive hammerscythe, pumped as much Astra as my muscles could allow, enhancing my strength, and then spun several times to build up momentum before striking the giant foot on the heel. The foot the size of a hotel was nearly vaporized from the force of the blow. Only the toes on the front shot out like rockets, which ricocheted off the smooth wall like bullets on steel.

The anguished cry from the monstrosity caused a wind storm that nearly blew us all away as it started to fall to one knee, only for another wail to cry out as Akoth shattered the other foot into chunks of molten rocks. Now, the creature was tumbling backward with arms flailing, and our other two companions had to judge the fall and dodge at the last moment to avoid being struck. Then, they got to work on destroying the head, which was surprisingly easy. Yeah, I'd say we've grown in power. We truly have no more threats to overcome on this layer. What a journey it has been… I sighed with relief. Going from scared out of my wits human on the run from monsters to defeating them with ease… that seemed like a mountain I would never be able to cross. Yet here I was, ready to scale yet another mountain to challenge even greater heights. What is this? Am I feeling nostalgic already? Whatever, I'm moving on.

Surprisingly, we did not get a world-first kill notification, but we all got something ranked up due to the amount of achievement such a monster was worth.

Then, right on time, Razokillian, the thief Ratkin from so long ago who tried to steal a necklace from me for VeLana, appeared. "Master Zeke, this one has brought you the item as per our arrangement. After this, I am free, yes?" The Ratkin looked hopeful—as he should, considering the meeting location was at the edge of the world that led to another Layer.

All three of my companions had immediately jumped into high alert with weapons drawn when the Ratkin made his presence known. Which is funny because our Astra was so much higher than Razokillian's, but it was a good reminder that even low-grade skills can still surprise us.

"Yes, Razokillian. With this item, your debt is cleared with me. Take care and remember, do not underestimate those you steal from. Because they might not be as forgiving as myself.

With that, I took hold of the bottle he handed to me: Old Rip Van Winkle 25-year-old Bourbon Whiskey. Well, to be more precise, a magically created simulation of that Bourbon based on what Harry could provide for the recipe. As it turns out, alcohol production wasn't being spearheaded by my restaurant business. Once a competitor got ahold of one of our recipes, they started experimenting at a rapid pace. Magic can really do wonders when someone suddenly realizes what is possible and has the tenacity to seize hold of the opportunity.

I could've dropped the ban hammer on them, but why? If they could advance certain recipes, even with the occasional hints from Harry, then why not let them create everything I desired but in my old life never got to enjoy.

Look, I had money. I was a rather successful mercenary under a Government contract, but while certain combat prosthetics were the perk for joining. Maintaining that gear was expensive. It was one of the many ways they kept us in line. Obviously, the medicine to control our transformations was the other method of control. Restrictive code, Serum, and cost of maintenance all were the chains around our necks. Being summoned to this world despite the disruption to my goal of revenge might not have been the freedom from their control that I had sought, but it turned out to be what I truly wanted.

Also, I had the Ratkin steal it because if you're going to have a thief in your pocket, you should use him as a thief… Screw those businesses we helped develop this fine bottle. I'm not getting any royalties off it.

Standing here now, before the final hurdle of our journey, I was reminded of all I've lost as well as all I've gained. Seeing VeLana was enough to move forward, but also seeing my best friend Jaxon as well as my… I guess rival slash friend, Akoth, I felt a rather peace about this new transition even though other members of our family were missing. So, I gave a toast while summoning four glasses. Then, Seeing Razokillian still standing there and Harry exiting my arm, I summoned two more. I have no idea if Harry could drink, but he seemed keen on participating. I raised my glass and began:May your troubles be less and your Blessings be more. And nothing but happiness comes through the front door – I gave a wink at VeLana.

* To all the days here and after, may they be filled with fond memories, drunkenness, and Monster slaughter.

* I pray that the best day of your past is the worst day of your future.

* Perhaps not in a stupor. But definitely smoother than this Bourbon!

* For strength and power are through tribulation, and nothing lost is ever a stipulation.

* Therefore, dance as if no one were watching, sing as if no one were listening, and fuck every day as if it were your last – VeLana gave me a sly smile.

* Because life is about living without regretting the troubles of our past.

"Cheers."

We all lifted the bottom of our glasses to the sky, some more than others, and gave satisfying sighs afterward. Harry actually drank the liquid and also gave an electronic sigh as well.

"This new sensory chip is a wonderful miracle! He chirped and then began to weave back and forth. "And so is the new digestive chip…"

"Alright people. Let's get this journey done," I said. "And Harry, get back in my arm, ya fool."

My intent was to walk up to the wall and touch it, but as soon as I approached within thirty feet of the wall, I felt something change. It was a tingly feeling, but despite Harry's condition, he was quick to give me the World Voice System Message prompt:

Notice!

This Zone restricts all use of Abilities, Skills, and

Artifacts. Only Soul Arts and Aura abilities are

allowed. To proceed, you must be able to

scale this wall. Good luck.

A long string of expletives escaped my lips upon reading that, and I was a little ashamed. Not that much, though. Still, this is ridiculous. Yet the others, confused by my outburst, also approached and got their version of the World Voice System message.

I once punched someone into the invisible barrier, so you'd think I could jump this, but for some reason, the height of this mountain seemed to nearly triple the height of the world's dome. Could this part of the barrier simply be higher? Like it really isn't a perfect dome shape.

I gave my best effort for a mighty leap and got about a third of the way up before I came crashing back down. The others were not impressed by the dirt storm I kicked up. "Well, any ideas?"

"Um… Zeke. Perhaps we should, I don't know, try one of the two things the sign says we can still use?" Jaxon gave me lip while continuing to brush dirt off his clothes.

"He has a good point," VeLana responded, "but how do we go about doing it?"

"Maybe we can use the Body Soul Art to cut handhelds into this rock?" Jaxon asked.

"I doubt it. We're strong, but so was that monster, and it left no scratches. Also, unless this thing heals itself, I see zero blemishes of any kind to it," I replied.

The author's tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

I decided to review the three Soul Arts to see if anything might be of use.

Mind:

Izentori:

Is the Mind Art that has three States of Mind

States:

1st:

Sight:

Allows the user to do spiritual things

2nd:

Thought:

Governs the ability to control our bodies

3rd:

Intergration:

The third State of Mind is called Integration

Body:

Bokorai:

Is the Body Art that has three Conditions

Conditions:

1st:

Fortification:

Allows the user to fortify the ground or even the air to align with

their body, which grants stable footing to reduce equal and opposite forces.

2nd:

Density Manipulation:

Gives the user the ability to alter their density

3rd:

Transference:

Is the ability to utilize either Fortification or Density Manipulation

at will, but has a greater Stamina cost.

Weapon:

Serrigheti:

Also known as the Soul Weapon has three stages of release

Each Release Form has its own special name unique to the user

Stages:

1st:

[Release Form 1]

Summons the Soul Weapon

2nd:

[Release Form 2]

Transforms the Weapon into a greater form with new powers

3rd:

[Release Form 3]

Full body transformation with the Weapon that grants massive body enhancements

and new powers.

I was thinking of Fortification with Density Manipulation, but you can only do one or the other. Transference allows you to switch quickly between each Condition but not really use them at the same time. Plus, while Fortification could somewhat bond you to the ground or surface in order to strengthen the foundation, it doesn't actually let you stick to that surface for long. Just like the dice manipulation game, it can allow for a quick bounce even off of air molecules, but it couldn't sustain a die in midair for any length of time.

As we were all contemplating our options, we suddenly felt a gust of wind as Akoth began to manipulate his Aura around him like a tornado to lift him off the ground. He managed to sustain himself about twenty feet off the ground but found it difficult to rise any further. Then that gave me an idea.

"Nice job, Akoth," Jaxon yelled. "Care to explain how you did that!"

Stepping outside of the no Blessing and Skill zone, I used Aura Sense and watched how he manipulated his Aura to grant a form of flight. I then replicated what he was doing and adjusted here and there for what felt natural. Then I used Bokorai's 2nd Condition, Density Manipulation, and reduced my density, and well, I soared. I was flying through the skies at great speed. At first, it was a little wobbly, but adjusting my Aura to form wings and thrust, I almost pulled off a Superman-style of flight. The landing was more kin to a person with a Jet pack and those arm jets to control position, but I managed a graceful enough landing to keep my dignity intact and explain what I did to everyone else.

Adorable VeLana. She managed to flip twice upside down before launching herself head-first into the dirt. She was so angry that she actually tried to eat the unbreakable wall. I healed her chipped tooth and softly coached her through the process. I would've healed my jaw, but my natural regeneration took care of that. Why do I always get involved with the dangerous ones? I think the first shower we took was the first red flag…

Eventually, we were all soaring through the skies and having a great time, too. It took some practice, sure, but the fun we were having almost made us forget that we had a mountain to scale. Taking a small break on the ground to replenish our Astra—for a few of us anyway—we decided to also eat some good cheeseburgers before seeing what was in store for us.

The moment we were all ready to go, it hit us like a tidal wave. The anticipation and even fear of the unknown were heavy within our Auras. Sure, we were also excited, but that part of us was a lot smaller than I would've liked. Even Akoth, with his stoic face, left traces of trepidation in his Aura.

Right, no more stalling. Let's get this done. "Alright, everyone, see you at the top. The last one smells like a rotten egg!" I said, grinning, and took off. The others reluctantly followed quickly behind.

What the actual… Oh, I had to bite my tongue. How did VeLana beat me to the top? She gave me a smug grin and then pushed me back off the mountain. I quickly re-engaged flight to land safely again, but wow, was I super annoyed. The worst of us beat all of us. This world is so unfair.

Despite the edges of the wall being jagged to give the appearance of a mountain in the distance, it was, in fact, a wall with a smooth floor before another drop-off down to the beach on the other side. Looking down was not so easy, as the distance plus the clouds made it impossible to see the bottom. What was worse was the fact that there was another sign that said:

Notice!

The use of Aura and Soul Arts

are now prohibited. Make it

down on your strength alone.

If you succeed. You will be

allowed to proceed. Also as

per usual, no Skills, Spells, or

Abilities are permitted during

the descent.

\\\|///

\\\|///

\\\|///

\\\|///

\\\|///

\\\|///

\\\|///

\\\|///

Okay, as Jaxon pointed out before, I need to read and understand the sign and then decide what to do. I don't suppose understanding why this was a physical sign and not a System Message would help me at all, would it? Probably not, and thankfully, I restrained my initial outburst of unsavory language.

However, none of my party members, including Jaxon, remembered that sage advice, as they collectively responded with that exact sentiment.

Now, I knew I had a Skill that allowed me to not only land upright but also nullify any damage taken afterward for ten seconds. However, I had a feeling none of that would matter. However, what did matter was the fact that I got that Skill by first leaping of a Sky City and surviving the fall solely based on my strength and durability. And to be honest, I was magnitudes more powerful now than then. So, should all my party members. However, I did notice one thing about the sign.

"Okay, everyone, please remain calm." I then explained how I gained the Sky Diver Title and the corresponding Skill because of it. I also related my relative strength then compared to where we all were now. But I dropped the real bombshell when I activated a Skill right there on top of this wall. Yes, our Skills and Abilities could be used now, before our descent downward. I cast Barrier, Healing, Mend Wound, Passive Healing, and Stone Skin on everyone since it would allow the Skill to run over time. Things like Momentum Change were an instant Skill and wouldn't help when we needed it.

Seeing the realization of what we could do, everyone else also cast their Skills or Spells that would further help them or the party in surviving the fall. Then, with a final nod to everyone, I walked up to the ledge, turned around to face them, spread my arms, and fell backward with a smile on my face. Surprisingly, VeLana beat Akoth by a small margin, with Jaxon's crazy grin coming in last with guns drawn, for I have no idea why.

I was confident in my survival based on the last time, but skydiving without a parachute always instills an instinctual fear within one's soul. However, I knew I had magic on my side as well as a stupidity-enhanced body. Still, if I woke up at the pearly gates, I could at least say the journey was quick. Or so I hoped. I mean, I could still die but be in agony for a while… okay, let's think positively. I've never been a pessimist. Only a realist. And realistically, I give it 90 / 10. As I passed through the clouds and saw the ground. I thought, 85 / 15. However, the closer the ground came, those numbers started to plummet.

Jeeze, guys, were you worried? Please. I created such a crater that my fellow party members were caught up in the blast, which further slowed their descent before they, too, crashed into the sand with a slightly reduced impact than my own. Still, we all lay there in agonizing pain while our bodies sorted themselves out. Eventually, the groans died out, and we slowly rose to our feet. Finding we could once again utilize all our abilities and skills, we cast cleaning and more rejuvenating effects before we turned our gaze to the boat.