"Aargh!"Aldric cried out in exhaustion, his body tired from days of non-stop hunting and training. [Congratulations to the user for obtaining new skills: Vertical slash (Move mastery: 28%), Horizontal slash (Move mastery: 49%), and Stab (Move Mastery: 15%). All the abilities listed are D-rank,] the System announced, acknowledging his progress.
He took a moment to catch his breath, wiping the sweat from his forehead. With determination in his eyes, Aldric collected the mana cores from the hound rabbits he had hunted. Pointing his sword towards them, he attempted to absorb their power. "Sword is absorbing the mana cores. Please remain nearby until the mana cores are fully absorbed," said the System in Aldric's mind, ensuring he stayed focused on the process.
For several days, Aldric continued his relentless pursuit of hound rabbits, using their mana cores to level up his sword instead of himself. The sword displayed significant improvements, its blade becoming sharper and more refined with each absorption. "System, you said that it can evolve. Does that mean it also has levels?" asked Aldric, curious about the potential of his weapon.
[As you know, the Ruinshard blade can evolve by consuming mana cores. It will become more powerful with time, unlocking its sealed skills,] the System explained, shedding light on the sword's growth.
"Okay, but what level is it on now?" inquired Aldric, eager to gauge the progress of his weapon.
[Users' understanding is not very high. To put it simply, this sword can rival a sword made of the highest grade of iron mixed with mithril at the current level,] replied the System, emphasizing the formidable nature of the Ruinshard Blade.
Abyss was taken aback by the revelation. "What did you say? It can rival the highest-grade swords?" he exclaimed, a mix of surprise and excitement coursing through him. The potential of the Ruinshard Blade was beyond his wildest expectations.
"This means I can kill a D-rank monster with it," thought Aldric, his gaze shifting towards his sword in awe. It had become more than just a weapon; it was now his greatest ally in the dangerous world he traversed.
Suddenly, a rustling noise emanated from a nearby bush, alerting Aldric to a potential threat. He crouched down, his senses heightened, and peered through the foliage. His eyes widened as he witnessed a two-horned snake devouring a group of hound rabbits. The snake was massive, measuring at least 4 meters in length, and posed a formidable challenge.
"What monster is that?" asked Abyss, his voice laced with curiosity and caution.
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[It is a Naga, a variant species of snake monster and a lower descendant of dragons. Nagas possess high poison resistance, tough scales harder than stones, and wrap themselves around their enemies to crush their bones,] explained the System, providing Aldric with crucial information about his adversary.
"How should I kill it? Snakes are agile when it comes to running," said Aldric, his mind racing as he analyzed the terrain and considered his options.
He took several moments to prepare, eventually digging a large pit and carefully covering it to conceal his trap. With a plan in mind, Aldric approached the snake cautiously, taking advantage of its dozing state.
The snake woke up, its eyes fixated on Aldric like a predator eyeing its prey. Abyss dashed towards the snake, his sword at the ready, but his initial strikes only left minor injuries on the snake's tough scales, which quickly healed. The snake retaliated, spewing venom towards Aldric, who skillfully dodged the deadly attack.
"A call for tactical retreat," thought Aldric, recognizing the snake's strategy to lure him into a vulnerable position.
The snake began chasing him, its movements swift and agile. Aldric led it towards the pit he had prepared, his heart pounding with anticipation. As they closed in on the trap, Aldric made a gap between them larger and larger. Aldric then stopped midway and looked backwards towards the Naga, who was still chasing him. Aldric smiled at Naga, and when Naga was about to reach Aldric, he fell into a pit. The snake, caught off-guard, revealed the massive pit beneath him, and he struggled to escape the six-meter-deep pit.
Aldric, now positioned himself near a large boulder, attempted to lift it to deliver a crushing blow to the snake. However, his initial efforts proved futile. Frustration welled up within him, but he refused to give in. With a surge of determination, he shouted, "War God Berserk!" A tremendous surge of strength coursed through his body, granting him the power he needed.
With newfound might, Aldric lifted the boulder effortlessly and leapt onto the snake's head. He relentlessly smashed the snake's skull with the boulder, each strike resonating with a resounding thud. The snake writhed in agony, its attempts to escape the pit growing weaker with each blow.
Finally, Aldric heard the voice he had been longing for. "Naga-variant snake killed. Please absorb its mana cores to gain new abilities. Monster rank: D." The System's announcement filled Aldric with a sense of accomplishment and relief.
But before he could make another moment of celebration his vision became blurry and he passed out from the blacklash of WAR GOD BESERK.