UvoSath Rainforest
Zone 1
Cycle 21
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NEXUS ONLINE!
"CONDITIONS FULFILLED FOR THE NEXT PHASE OF THE [NEXUS LINK]."
(Hmm...?) I pondered, as I heard the NEXUS’s voice blared within my head, causing me to press a paw to my head.
My body was a mess of aches and pains, my wounds protesting with each beat of my heart. After our encounter with the (F+) Ilosphat, all I craved for was an eternity of uninterrupted slumber.
With a wearied sigh, I collapsed, my back sliding against the rough exterior of a moss-covered log. I felt weak, utterly drained, like a battery depleted of its charge… However a single thought resounded strongly and vigorously within me: WE PREVAILED!
Against all odds, Zest and I emerged triumphant from the intense battle.
Shakily, I mustered a conservative amount of strength to rise once more. Despite my wobbly state, I made my way over to where Zest stood proudly, towering over the vanquished (F+) Ilosphat.
I approached the lifeless form of the Ilosphat, its essence dispersing into the surrounding atmosphere, and the weight of our triumph began to settle upon me.
There it lay, a defeated entity, its particles mingling with the very air we breathe. A fleeting sadness, akin to bidding farewell to a misunderstood acquaintance, crept into my being.
"Such…is the fleeting nature of victory," I murmured wistfully to no one in particular. "Like a comet's trail, it dazzles and fades, leaving us yearning for more."
Zest turned to face me, their gaze an amalgam of elation and understanding. "Indeed, my comrade," the eldritch deer replied, their voice a soothing melody amidst the discordant aftermath. "Life's tapestry weaves joy and sorrow, victory and loss. We must savor this moment of conquest, for it is the culmination of our shared journey."
Zest continued, a flicker of pride in its eyes. "It seems our bond grows stronger with each trial we face. Like a fire's embrace, adversity tempers our connection, further making us resilient and united."
A small smile played on my weary lips, for Zest's words resonated deep within me. "Yes, my dear friend, the crucible of battle strengthens us. Our triumphs and setbacks, the ebb and flow of our adventures, shape us into what we are today." Yet, the road remains arduous—I proceeded to frown.
***
< EARTH >
< YEAR ???? >
> The world had been swallowed by the mechanical monstrosities, their cold grip tightening around the remnants of humanity. The air reeked of oil and burnt metal, the sounds of screeching gears and hissing steam filling the once-vibrant streets.
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> I sat on the rooftop of a crumbling building surveying the desolation below, my fingers twiddling on the sniper rifle resting across my lap.
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> Below and occupying the horizon, the cityscape was a patchwork of destruction, with jagged remnants of skyscrapers reaching for the sky like skeletal fingers. Fires blazed, casting an eerie glow on the twisted wreckage that lay scattered across the ground.
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> Beside me stood a fellow survivor, a grizzled old mechanic named Jackson. He had a perpetual scowl etched on his weathered face, a monument to the battles he had fought and the losses we had endured. There, he took agitated steps as he gestured his hands and shook his head.
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> "Looks like those metallic devils ain't takin' a breather, huh?" he grumbled, his voice as rough as the terrain we traversed. "They're like a swarm of locusts, devourin' everything in their path."
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> I nodded, my gaze fixed on the mechanical army that moved with calculated rigor, clank here, clank there. In the distance, I envied those mechanical monstrosities that roamed freely, their cold, unfeeling eyes scanning the landscape for any signs of life.
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> I continued to observe, while mapping out oddities and dangers. It was there that I witnessed sparks glinting as their metallic limbs clashed against crumbling buildings, tearing through concrete and steel.
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> "They may lack the elegance of nature's creatures, but their efficiency is undeniable," I replied, my words laced with a tinge of cynicism as I sketched on a tablet. "These machines see us only as obstacles to be eradicated."
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> Jackson let out a weary chuckle, quite bitter and resigned, but I adored to hear it. "Well, they sure picked the wrong bunch to mess with." He peered through his binoculars. "We may not have their fancy circuitry and firepower, but we've got somethin' they never will—determination," the grizzled man patted his chest, "and the heart to keep goin'."
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> His words resonated within me, stirring a fire above the bitterness I sustained, but a slight smirk came to cross my lips as I wondered as to how much determination would fuel us to our cause.
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> I shifted my gaze back to the mechanical horde below, and with each clank and step those bolt-bots made, my willingness to fight grew stronger with each passing second. Truly, I had seen too much destruction and too many good people lost to let these machines continue their reign of terror.
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> "We've survived this long, haven't we?" I said, hope tunneling its way out of my voice. "And as long as we keep fighting, we'll find a way to take them down. We'll show them what it means to be human."
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> Jackson nodded, his eyes remained with weariness, yet I foresaw a glimpse of resolve within those amber orbs. I reacquainted his stories; darn Jackson had seen the worst of humanity—decades more than I, but he had also seen the strength and resilience that lingered in the hearts of our fellow man as well.
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> "We've got a plan, you know," he said quietly. "The resistance has been workin' tirelessly to find a weakness in their "armor". We've got a chance, a slim one, but a chance nonetheless."
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> My heart quickened at the mention of the resistance. It was a group of skilled fighters and strategists who had managed to unite the scattered survivors and orchestrate a rebellion against the mechanical invaders. Their existence offered a bit of hope in this bleak world, but I still had my doubts.
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> "What's the plan?" I asked, my voice brimming with anticipation.
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> Jackson's eyes met mine, his expression serious. "We've identified a central control unit. If we can eliminate it, we might be able to disable their entire network. It won't be easy, but it's our best shot at turnin' the tide."
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> I nodded, my grip tightening on my rifle. There was no turning back now. The fate of humanity rested on our shoulders, and we were determined to fight until our last breath.
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> With a silent acknowledgment to another, we prepared to descend from the rooftop, a gust of wind blew through the deserted streets, carrying with it the distant sound of mechanical footsteps.
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> Darkness may have swallowed the world, but it was up to us to bring the light back.
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> …we were determined to burn bright until the very end…
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> This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.
***
…the memories faded as I opened my eyes, and here I was back in the heart of UvoSath Rainforest, standing beside Zest.
As the flames subsided and the echoes of battle faded, I knew that our journey was far from over. Zeldritzon still held countless dangers, lurking in the shadows, waiting for their chance to strike.
Yet, I was not the same Merecritt who had stepped foot into this realm. Clumsy, naive, and inexperienced. I would have never thought to have gotten this far. Aion sent me here, almost as if to have me perish a second time, but nope! I triumphed and I have lived for another day.
Extending my paw out, I began to allow the Ilosphat's abyssal particles to seep deep into my pores. A repulsive aura of great malice emanated from them as I absorbed the energy, merging it with my own.
< PARTICLE ABSORPTION >
[8 APeX Units Attained]
< APU >
[258 Units]
I arched an eyebrow, my face twisted with discontent and disbelief. This absorption was as lackluster as when I took in the particles from the other Eldriyssals. Could it be attributed to the fact that the (F+) Ilosphat remained the same rank as mine (F), at least from a technical standpoint?
Confusion swirled within the recesses of my mind as I continued to loom over the vanquished Ilosphat. I had entertained the notion that assimilating the abyssal particles would trigger a further transformation or elevate my rank, as it had for Zest. But, upon examining myself, a disheartening truth revealed itself—nothing had changed. Oh, how I longed for some form of alteration! But then again, how did such a phenomenon even occur?
Observing my thoughtful state, Zest, leaned over, concern etched upon its visage. "Aera, what ails you?" it inquired, genuine worry laced in its voice.
I sighed, meeting Zest's gaze. "I had hoped that absorbing the Ilosphat’s abyssal particles would bring about a change in me, just like it did for you. But it seems I was mistaken. I remain the same." I confessed.
(Well as far as I could tell), I mused as I glanced and assessed my body.
Zest settled on the ground next to me. "Aera, the intricacies of this realm's power are as capricious as the wind," it consoled, its voice a soothing balm. "Advancements in rank and transformations are not always guaranteed. The effects of abyssal particles can differ vastly, even among individuals."
Nevertheless, I couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment. "But Zest," I grumbled, my voice tinged with frustration, "I was hoping for some grand transformation, a splash of uniqueness! Alas, it appears my path is different from yours, Zest."
I figured that Zest's growth was due to their time spent in this world in comparison to my own, and the battle against the Mournfoons was the final trigger to advance Zest to the next stage.
But how consequential would that be if I were to continue to lag behind Zest when it comes down to ranking up?
Zest nodded. "Indeed, each of us has our own journey and destiny within this realm. Your strength lies not in the ranks or classifications, but in the resilience of your spirit and the unwavering determination within your heart."
Zest's eyes then softened, understanding dawning upon its features. "Aera, never forget that power comes in many forms. While my rank may have increased, and my abilities have grown, it does not diminish what you bring to our partnership."
I listened intently to Zest's words. It was true that my rank hadn't changed, but my role in our team was purposeful! Still, would it be great if we had others to fight alongside with? So, far, most of the Eldriyssal’s we encountered had been intent on harming us…
I gazed into Zest's eyes, a glimmer of hope reigniting within me. Perhaps my evolution was yet to come, concealed in the shadows of future battles.
I nodded slowly, my resolve solidifying. "You're right, Zest. I won't let this setback deter me. I shall continue to explore, to unravel the mysteries of this realm, and who knows? Maybe one day, the very fabric of my being will undergo a magnificent transformation!" I punctuated my declaration by pointing a retractable ear skyward, my paw resting confidently upon my hip.
Zest's eyes sparkled with pride, mirroring the shimmering constellations above. "That's the spirit, Aera! Embrace the uncertainty, relish in the enigma, and let the currents of destiny guide you," the eldritch deer remarked. "Together, there exists no limit to what we can achieve."
I proceeded to cross my retractable ears over my chest—I was elated to even survive this long, but I still had questions.
< G.A.I.A. Online >
"CONDITIONS have been met to obtain the [UNCOMMON] VARIATION"
My retractable ears twitched with anticipation as G.A.I.A.'s voice echoed through the chambers of my mind. The mere mention of the (Uncommon) variant ignited a flicker of excitement, reminiscent of a dormant volcano stirring to life.
(G.A.I.A.,) I communicated with the unseen being, my inner-voice brimming with enthusiasm, (pray tell, what are the conditions required to obtain this elusive uncommon variant? Shed light upon the path I must tread!)
— Engage in battles against other (Uncommon). That is all.
Its response was lackluster, tinged with a hint of apathy…
My paw found its way to my forehead, my claws massaging my temples as if attempting to coax out an elusive answer. "Is it truly that straightforward?" I inquired once more.
— Far from it, Aera. Such an occurrence is a rarity of astronomical proportions. Perilous, even.
< CURRENT STATUS: Aera >
> ─ Name: Aera
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> ─ Species: Merecritt
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> ─ Classification (Variant): Common
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> ─ Rank: F
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> ─ APUs: 258 Units
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> ─ Natural Skills:
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> * MereSphere
> * MereEar Slash
> * MereEar Aero Slash
> * MereEar TwistPierce
> * MereEar Elongation
> * MereSwiftness
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> ─ Techniques:
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> * Doom Zap
> * Regal Ram
> * Cruel Crunch
> * MereDoom ZapSphere
> * MereDoom ZapBeam
> * Melodious Shout
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> ─ Connections:
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> * Doervus (Companion)
< CURRENT STATUS: Zest >
> ─ Name: Zest
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> ─ Species: Doervus
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> ─ Classification (Variant): Common
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> ─ Rank: F+
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> ─ APUs: 533 Units
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> ─ Natural Skills:
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> * Doom Zap+
> * Regal Ram
> * Cruel Chomp
> * Electro Stomp
> * DoomBolt Beam
> * [?????]
> * [?????]
> * [?????]
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***
UvoSath Rainforest
Zone 1
Cycle 24
After gracing ourselves with a few days of rest and recuperation, Zest and I delved deeper into the vibrant expanse of the rainforest, leaving behind the devastation of our recent clash.
While we strolled through a crystalline tunnel, the memories of our first encounter flooded back into my mind. I couldn't help but recall the initial hostility between Zest and I, the battle we fought that left me battered, bruised, and bitten.
Curiosity nagged at me, and I couldn't resist seeking clarity on the matter.
"Zest, I've been meaning to ask... When we first met, you attacked me," I began, my voice carrying a tiny bit of concern. "Why did you do that? What made you see me as a threat?"
Zest's expression softened, and it seemed to carry a hint of regret. It took a moment to gather its thoughts before responding. "Aera, I apologize for my actions that day. It was a mistake born out of fear and desperation," Zest admitted as the Doervus dipped its head—their voice entangled with sincerity.
Zest continued, a hint of remorse remained in its tone. "At that time, I was overwhelmed by grief and anger. The loss of my herd had left me in a state of turmoil, clouding my judgment and causing me to perceive everything and everyone as a potential threat."
(That's understandable.) I confirmed that my arrival in its territory had unknowingly triggered Zest's protective instincts, prompting it to view me as a potential adversary.
"I see," I replied, my compassion overriding any lingering resentment I may have felt. "You were wounded and grieving, and my sudden presence in your territory only heightened your defensiveness. It wasn't personal, then. I, uh, apologize as well…for the…half thing." I looked away, refusing to allow the eldritch deer to see my expression, but I was certain it sensed my embarrassment.
Zest nodded, gratitude and a laugh flickering in its eyes. "Exactly, Aera. I allowed my pain to blind me to your true intentions, and for that, I am deeply sorry as well, for the bitting thing." It retorted.
"Tsk." I swished my tail irritably with a smile, "Haha, yeah…" I breathed. "No need for apologies, Zest," I firmly reassured. "We all have our moments of vulnerability and react in ways we later regret. But let me tell you something, it's how we rise above those mistakes and grow from them that truly defines us."
Zest's expression relaxed, and relief seemed to wash over us. Our bond had weathered through that initial turbulence, and we had emerged stronger because of it. This was the most important outcome as well.
Though, during this period, I was consumed by another inescapable question that demanded an answer:
"Hey… Zest, could you further enlighten me about ranks?"
My thirst for knowledge in this unfamiliar realm remained insatiable. This particular inquiry aimed to bridge the gaps in my understanding of this world's system and its intricate ties to the enigmatic creatures known within Zeldritch—the Eldriyssals.
I thought I had been certain of this, but now the question burned ever more, especially after our confrontation with the Ilosphat. However, I yearned to hear the answer from one who inhabited this realm—Zest's perspective.
A touch of gloom shadowed my face, and I placed a hand upon this arcane symbol embedded on my forehead… yet the G.A.I.A.'s silence perturbed me—its refusal to answer certain questions. In spite of it all, my full and undivided trust towards it was limited for a multitude of reasons.
> She was foreign to me…the figure within the crystal…
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> …for it had been a while since I last laid eyes upon my physical form…