Chapter 2: Chapter 2: Mark
In the heart of an expansive forest, colossal trees towered above, casting an enchanting dim light upon the moisture-laden surroundings. A symphony of sounds echoed through the air, as tall grass rustled beneath the weight of each deliberate step, accompanied by the crackling of dry leaves underfoot.
Emerging cautiously from the verdant camouflage, John gradually unveiled his head, eyes fixated on a young yet robust brown boar in the distance. This creature boasted a muscular build, its back adorned with formidable brown spikes, and yellow tusks not fully developed but hinting at latent strength.
A sudden flash illuminated the scene as a screen materialized above the boar, revealing its identity - a [Juvenile Brown Boar (Common)]. This automatic feature activated whenever John encountered monsters, providing crucial information.
Confidence brimming, John asserted, "I can defeat that... I think?" He crouched, his fingers tightly gripping the hilt of his sword, his resolve echoing through the forest. "You only live twice."
With deliberate precision, he stealthily advanced towards the unsuspecting boar, which continued its oblivious feast on the lush grass, unaware of the impending encounter.
Upon reaching a certain distance from the boar, John sprang into action with a swift and calculated attack. With the deftness of a seasoned warrior, he activated Slash, fluidly slashing his sword towards the formidable beast.
The acquisition of the skill transformed his body and mind, imbuing him with the prowess of a seasoned swordsman.
The boar, quick-witted and agile, responded promptly by leaping away, skillfully evading the razor-sharp arc of John's blade. A tense standoff ensued, with John and the boar locking eyes, a silent acknowledgment of the imminent clash.
John gripped his sword with unwavering determination, ready for the next move. Sensing the impending threat, the boar initiated a relentless charge, tusks gleaming menacingly as it bore down on John with a primal ferocity.
Reacting with agility and instinct, John leaped away, narrowly evading the charging boar. However, the relentless creature swiftly adjusted its trajectory, pursuing John with an unexpected burst of speed. The realization dawned on John that the boar surpassed him in swiftness.
Adapting to the challenging situation, John opted for a strategic approach. Instead of futilely attempting to outrun the accelerating boar, he swiftly scaled a nearby tree, using the vertical advantage to elude the relentless pursuit. High above the ground, John surveyed the situation, formulating his next move with a mix of caution and determination.
The inexperienced boar, driven by instinct, recklessly charged into the dense thicket of trees, its muscular form crashing against the robust trunks. The cacophonous collision echoed through the forest, alerting John to the opportunity at hand.
Seizing the moment, John swiftly descended, his agile movements akin to a predator closing in on its prey. Charging towards the disoriented boar, he deftly activated the deadly Slash technique, the blade of his sword slicing through the soft flesh of the boar's exposed belly. A visceral cry erupted from the wounded creature, echoing the pain inflicted upon it.
However, the boar, now wounded and enraged, turned its attention towards John with a fierce determination. Its eyes, ablaze with fury, met John's gaze, a silent challenge issued in the midst of the skirmish.
Undeterred, John held his ground, his grip on the sword tightening. "Come on, Spiky Babe in the forest," he taunted, his words laced with confidence as he faced the formidable adversary.
In response, the boar unleashed a thunderous stomp, activating a hidden mechanism that caused the sharp spikes on its back and tusks to illuminate a sinister shade of green.
A foreboding realization struck John as he observed the ominous transformation. "That doesn't look good," he muttered, recognizing the impending danger that the vibrant hue hinted at.
The once-innocent-looking boar now revealed its deadly secret – the spikes and tusks were not merely formidable weapons but were augmented with a toxic poison. The forest, once a serene backdrop, now hosted a perilous dance between predator and prey.
With a deafening roar, the boar, fueled by both pain and venomous rage, lunged forward, closing the distance between itself and John with alarming speed. The ensuing battle between man and beast had escalated into a high-stakes confrontation, set against the backdrop of the untamed wilderness.
John skillfully leaped away from the oncoming charge of the venomous boar, its snarling tusks gleaming in the dim light. The boar, hampered by a noticeable limp, moved with a sluggish determination, the injury impeding its once-swift movements.
Seizing the opportunity presented by the boar's reduced agility, John wasted no time. He lunged forward at the precise moment the boar paused to catch its breath. With a swift and calculated motion, he activated his deadly Slash technique, aiming for the vulnerable neck of the massive creature.
As the blade made contact, a desperate cry echoed through the forest. The boar, though wounded, refused to submit easily. It retaliated fiercely, attempting to regain control of the situation. John, undeterred, maintained his focus, acutely aware that any misstep could cost him his life in this perilous encounter.
The realization dawned on him – the seemingly young boar belied the true danger it posed. The intensity of the struggle escalated, and John, grappling with the beast, felt the weight of the situation pressing upon him like a vice.
"Take this!" John's exclamation rang through the tense air as he redoubled his efforts. He once again unleashed the power of Slash, but to his surprise, the boar proved more resilient than anticipated. Its determination to survive manifested in a renewed charge, a formidable display of strength that left John on the defensive.
In the midst of the battle, adrenaline coursing through his veins, John knew that each movement had to be precise, every decision made with the utmost caution. The forest became an arena of life and death, with John locked in a relentless struggle against the relentless boar.
With acquired agility, he gracefully evaded the boar's ferocious charge, executing a mid-air spin that showcased his prowess. As he touched down, precision guided his movements, culminating in a devastating finishing blow. Activating the skill "Slash," he deftly severed the boar's neck, causing its head to cascade onto the bed of dried leaves below.
Exhausted but victorious, John leaned over, resting his hands on his knees. The weight of his breath reflected the intensity of the encounter, each inhalation a testament to the physical exertion endured during the fierce battle.
Amidst the aftermath, John couldn't help but marvel at the formidable challenge he had just conquered. With a wry smile, he quipped, "Now, imagine facing the adult ones." His words lingered in the air, emphasizing the daunting nature of the quest.
Suddenly, a resounding voice echoed, cutting through the quiet aftermath. "Your quest has been completed," declared the authoritative system voice. The air was charged with anticipation as John awaited his well-earned rewards.
In response, the system announced, "You have received rewards."
"One Skill Draw, one Equipment Draw and one Character Draw."
John stood tall and proud, relishing the triumph. "That was far simpler than anticipated," he declared confidently. "Perhaps I'm just lucky to still be standing here." A playful smirk danced across his lips as he added, "Alive and well, I might add."
His gaze shifted towards the fallen boar, its formidable tusks and spikes now reverting to a natural shade of brown. Crossing his arms thoughtfully, John mused aloud, "I crave a good meaty feast, but I fear this particular creature might not be fit for the table."
Inquisitively, he addressed the system voice, "Brown Boar's meat is edible?"
Without hesitation, the system responded, "Completely edible."
A wry smile played on John's face as he remarked, "You do have answers, don't you? What queries can you tackle?"
"Quest," echoed the system voice.
"Build a townhall," it commanded, laying out the challenge with a promise of rewards – "one skill draw, one equipment draw, and one hero draw."
Acknowledging the directive, John pondered, "I comprehend. Well, first things first." He seized the boar's hind legs and commenced the task of dragging it away. "No need to pay me any mind; I've got a townhall to construct."
In the heart of the dense forest, John diligently scoured the wilderness, determined to uncover the ideal haven for his respite. After an exhaustive search, he stumbled upon a secluded enclave, a veritable paradise where resources abounded. The spot boasted an abundance of trees, particularly fruit-bearing ones, providing a feast for the senses. Among the foliage, sturdy stones lay strewn, enhancing the area's rustic charm.
Adjacent to this sanctuary flowed a deep river, its calming murmurs echoing through the tranquil surroundings. John marveled at his discovery, relishing in the bountiful offerings of nature. It was amidst this idyllic setting that he encountered a peculiar fruit, akin to a cherry, but with an otherworldly color transformation—shifting seamlessly from blue to green to red, depending on the angle.
Curiosity getting the better of him, John queried, "Is this strange-looking cherry edible?" With the fruit cradled in his hand, he awaited guidance.
"Yes, Triola is edible," asserted the system's authoritative voice.
Undeterred by the uniqueness of the fruit, John decided to partake in its exotic flavors. As the strange cherry touched his lips, he savored the amalgamation of tastes, confirming its edibility.
Pleased with the unexpected bounty, he turned his attention to the voice emanating from the system, acknowledging its indispensable role. "You are incredibly convenient, akin to a valuable skill in your own right," he declared with a nod. "You're like an appraiser, discerning the worth of the unknown."
The system's voice remained silent, leaving John perplexed. Undeterred, he nonchalantly shrugged, fixing his gaze on the unfolding situation before him.
"Now, the moment of truth approaches." John focused on his gacha, his anticipation evident as he rubbed his palms. "It's gacha time."
With a deliberate press of the skill gacha button, he witnessed a vibrant and dynamic sequence accompanied by a pulsating beat.
"Ding."
"Skill Acquired: Punch (Common)."
"Unleash a punch to deal damage to the target."
"By obtaining a Common skill, you have earned 5 stat points."
John nodded approvingly, his confidence growing. "Excellent, I am gradually mastering this."
John's gaze swiftly landed on the Equipment Gacha, a mysterious allure emanating from it.
"Provide me with anything," John declared, forcefully pressing the draw button.
Distinct from the skill gacha, the equipment version resonated with the resounding symphony of a blacksmith's craft—hammers striking, leather being worked, and flames dancing.
"Skill Acquired: Sword (Common)," the system voice resonated triumphantly.
"A mundane sword."
"In exchange for obtaining common equipment, you've earned 5 stat points," the system announced.
"Joke's on you; this was within my expectations," John retorted defiantly, lifting both hands.
With a confident smile, he proclaimed, "Gacha Fusion."
John's hands illuminated in a soft, dim white glow, a manifestation of a newfound skill that pulsed through his veins. Although unfamiliar, it seamlessly integrated into his consciousness, allowing him to wield it instinctively.
Eager to test the limits of his newfound ability, John grasped his weapons, Slash and Punch. With determination etched on his face, he declared, "Let's see what you can do. Upgrade Slash and use Punch as a sacrifice."
The authoritative voice of the system echoed, "Initiating Skill Fusion."
A suspenseful pause followed, "Processing..."
"Processing..."
Finally, the system declared, "Skill Fusion has been completed."
The revelation was accompanied by a triumphant announcement, "Skill Acquired: Thunderstrike (Uncommon)."
"Empower the user's weapon with electric energy, delivering a charged slash. Upon impact, this attack will momentarily paralyze the target."
"As a reward for acquiring this Uncommon skill, you have received 10 stat points," intoned the system, sealing John's triumph in the form of tangible progress and enhanced capabilities.
"My, Gacha Fusion is remarkably effective. It feels akin to skirting the boundaries of fair play," John remarked, pausing momentarily as the Thunderstrike seamlessly downloaded into his consciousness. "Moreover, I can effortlessly use these skills without the need for extensive training."
His focus shifted to his arsenal, and with determination, he invoked the Gacha Fusion once more, commencing the intricate fusion procedure to amalgamate his two available swords.
"Initiating Equipment Fusion," resonated the authoritative system voice.
"Processing..."
"Processing..."
"Equipment Fusion has reached completion."
"Equipment Acquired: Ephemeral Blade (Uncommon)."
"It emitted an otherworldly glow, its edge bearing a subtle enchantment that heightened the wielder's agility and precision on the battlefield."
Before John stood the revelation of his new weapon, The Ephemeral Blade. Its appearance was nothing short of mesmerizing, emanating a soft, luminescent blue glow that mirrored the moonlight dancing on water. The ethereal hue not only adorned the blade but also heightened its mystical aura, making it a captivating and otherworldly sight.
As John grasped the sword's handle, an immediate surge of power coursed through him. The buff it provided was palpable, as if the weapon itself recognized and responded to his touch. It was a symbiotic connection, the union of wielder and weapon creating a formidable alliance.
With a fluid motion, John swung the sword through the air. It was as though the Ephemeral Blade had been forged with him in mind—every movement, every strike felt effortless and instinctive. He marveled at the seamless harmony between himself and the sword, realizing that it was indeed crafted exclusively for him.
"It surpasses my expectations," John exclaimed, his words flowing effortlessly as he gracefully danced with the sword. The joy and satisfaction in his voice mirrored the mastery he felt over this newfound weapon, a perfect fusion of craftsmanship and destiny.
The resonant voice of the system echoed through the digital realm, proclaiming, "For attaining Uncommon equipment, you are endowed with 10 formidable stat points." The proclamation heralded a new phase, yet the thrill persisted.
Undeterred, John's gaze fixated on the enigmatic Character Gacha, a source of untold possibilities. With a determined exhale, he declared, "Now, let's procure one beyond the reach of Gacha Fusion."
In a moment of anticipation, he clasped his hands together, summoning an air of expectancy. "Behold, my inaugural companion," he declared, pressing the draw button with unwavering resolve.
A melodic symphony, distinct from other gacha sections, enveloped him. It resonated like an epic composition, with magical undertones. It was as if an ethereal orchestra, chanting in Latin, materialized before him, infusing the moment with a surreal grandeur.
"My destined master beckoned, and I stand ready to heed the call," resonated a baritone voice, its cadence both soothing and majestic.
Simultaneously, a blinding light materialized before John, casting an ethereal glow across the surroundings.
An eager smile illuminated John's face, anticipation coursing through his veins.
"Serving you shall be the purpose of my existence. Your word is my unyielding command, and your every whim shall govern my actions," declared the resonant male voice.
The radiant light dissipated, revealing a summoned unit kneeling in deference before John.
A man adorned in tunic clothing, possessing a thick-bearded visage, chiseled jawline, and neat, curly hair. His handsomeness accentuated by tan skin and brown eyes. Yet, despite these features, an inexplicable contrast persisted—a body visibly emaciated, bordering on malnourished.
John furrowed his brows. "My man, your face doesn't align with your body."
"Character Acquired: Builder (Common)," intoned the system voice.
"For obtaining a Common Character, you have earned 5 stat points," the system voice continued, bestowing a sense of accomplishment upon John.
John scrutinized his new builder, finding potential masked by an undernourished appearance. "The potential is there, but he needs nourishment – a lot of it," he remarked with a discerning eye.
The builder, displaying unwavering loyalty, knelt even lower. "I am here at your service, my lord. Command me, and it shall be executed."
Upon reflection, John realized the timeliness of the builder's arrival. "In fact, I do require a skilled builder, and you've arrived at a fortuitous moment," he admitted, his tone growing contemplative. "What shall I call you, my builder?"
"I am nameless, My Lord," replied the builder, lifting his head with a display of humility. "Yet, if you bestow a name upon me, it would be the greatest honor."
Without hesitation, John decided, "Then a name you shall have." Firmly, he declared, "Henceforth, you will be known as Mark – Mark the Builder, at my command."
•••••
[STATS]
VITALITY: 3
STRENGTH: 3
INTELLIGENCE: 3
AGILITY: 3
DEXTERITY: 3
AVAILABLE STAT POINTS: 35
•••
[SKILLS]
PLAYER EXCLUSIVE SKILL: Gacha Fusion.
COMMON:
UNCOMMON: Thunderstrike.
•••••
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone