《Diver》
CHAPTER ONE
"Clifford Weller!" said the examiner. Cliff immediately stood up and approach the examiner. The examiner said, "You have good written test results, now this time we have to check your energy levels to determine which class is suitable for you," at the same time the examiner pointed to the EMD, a platform like device.
The EMD stands for Energy Measuring Device, as the name implies it measure the energy within an individual''s body. Cliff immediately stand on the EMD, then EMD is turned on; the EMD immediately scanned the body of Cliff and took a blood sample using a syringe like arm that extended from the machine. "Calculating the energy of the subject!.... *ding* the inert energy: 45 points!", the machine read out.
The examiner looking at the result and said, "Based on your EMD results you qualify as a Support Class diver, here are the materials from the Tavern which will give you a simple introduction to the different jobs you can take as a support class also the materials include introductions to the different classes and the respective jobs under it. If you decide to join the Tavern you can comeback a week later for an orientation and a month of training for the job you have chosen." Clifford took the drive that the examiner handed and left the EMD. Staring at the drive, he decide to read it at home for he will be waiting for his friend to finish his test.
"How did it go man?", Mel said as he approach Clifford with an excited face. "I passed the test and got qualified as a Support Class Diver", Cliff said as he was feeling a little down because he was expecting that he has a high energy score, since both his parents were Divers. "That''s good man! There some Divers that reach a high rank being a support class. Like Trevor, a rank 4 master priest, he is highly coveted of parties and guilds for his talents."Mel said to Cliff, as he was trying to cheer him up.
From their backs they heard "Melsion Walter!", the examiner shouted. Immediately, the two turned around and Cliff shove Mel towards the examiner."You know where to go" the examiner said and pointed to the EMD machine in the next room near the hallway.
Cliff waited in the hallway about 10 minutes and Mel left the room and rushed toward Cliff. "My energy is around 65 points and the examiner said I qualified to the juggernaut class and handed me a drive everything related on being a Diver." Mel excitedly said. "Not bad, after all your always been stronger than me. Lets try to read the contents of the drive tonight and meet up a week later for our orientation and job selection." Cliff reminded Mel, which is excited from the results of the test.
Mel and Cliff left the Tavern testing area and headed to the nearby Warper Station. Warper technology is the by product of studying the rifts; it let the transportation within the city fast and convenient but the downside is that the warp area of warper stations are small that it cannot go over large distances like from one city to another; either you take the train or go by car to do this. The two immediately lined up to get warp to their respected district, before they part ways Mel said to Cliff, " lets try to be the best of our respected classes!" In turn Cliff nodded to what Mel said.
The two separated in the ticket booth and head toward their respective Warp platform. Cliff walked towards the warp platform with a "District 2" name above it and Mel walked towards the one with a "district 5" above it. " Please gather to the designated platform to be warped. Anyone whose not here will have to wait a minute for the next warp.", the man on the PA system said. Cliff shove his ticket to the machine and stand on the platform. The platform immediately been enclosed in a tube and the PA system, " warping in 5..4..3..2..1!". There was sudden burst of light which blinded the people for a few moments and as they open their eyes they have arrived to there destination. "Thank you for using the warper station we hope to see you again very soon!" The woman on the PA system announced.
Cliff left the warper station and walked home. The apartment Cliff staying at is four blocks away from the station. This apartment is owned by his aunt whom took custody of him when Cliff parents died on a mission on the other side of the rift. His aunt is a retired diver that lost her arm during a mission. His aunt used the money she saved, from the time she was an active diver, to buy a two storey building with six rooms to earn a living even after retiring.
"Loraine I''m home!", Cliff shouted as he entered the door to their apartment. "I''m in the kitchen Cliff!", Loraine replied. Cliff immediately went to the kitchen and saw her aunt preparing the table for dinner. "So how did it go?" Loraine asked. "I passed the test and got qualified to be a support class diver,¡± Cliff replied. "Not bad, have you decided what job are you gonna take?", Loraine asked. "Not yet, I still need to read the material the examiner gave me, also Mel passed the test he got qualified to be a juggernaut class", Cliff added. "He better be careful in selecting a job and companions cause he gonna take a real beating from that class", Loraine added with a somewhat complex expression.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.
Cliff remembered that his aunt was a rank 4 apprentice Berserker. She had an accident forcing her to retire, which took her arm in the process, it happened when her teammates was wiped out during a rank 4 elite class mission. His aunt still blames herself for what had happened. Immediately Cliff change the topic, "Whats for dinner?" Cliff asked ¡®cause he is hungry from the events of today. Loraine replied, "Since I know you are going to pass that test, I baked a cake and prepared pasta to celebrate!". Cliff washed his hands and help her aunt to set up the table.
After dinner her aunt asked him to give some of the cake and pasta to the man in the upstairs apartment. Her aunt is worried that the fool will forget to take meals again. Cliff immediately knew whom her aunt is talking about, Mr. Zen.
Mr. Zen is a tenant upstairs that move in a couple of years ago, he is a freelance crafter. He make makes and repair equipment of Divers for a living. Cliff took a tupperware of pasta and two slices of cake and rush out the door to bring the food to Mr. Zen. He is a busy man, he often forgets to eat when he is so focus on work. There was a time his aunt found Mr. Zen collapsed in front of his apartment this due to extreme hunger Mr. Zen experienced.
Cliff chuckled as he ring the door bell of Mr. Zen''s apartment, while he remembered that event. *buzz..buzz* A voice answered, "The door''s unlock you can find me in the back room." Cliff entered the room, he observed that, Mr. Zen despite being a crafter, he keeps his living space very neat, because most crafters does not care about this. He saw books on the self that all about materials in crafting and crafting it self. Cliff proceeded to the backroom, where you can find Mr. Zen''s "work shop". Mr Zen rented two apartments and modified it, one will be his living quarters the other will be his workshop. His aunt didn''t mind this because Mr. Zen paid for the modification and leased the two apartment for a decade. But his aunt only have gave out one condition that he have to soundproof his workshop so he will not disturb the other tenants and the neighbors; Mr. Zen agreed to this.
"Mr. Zen we have a cooked a lot of pasta and baked a cake, My aunt wants you to have some", Cliff said to Mr. Zen whom, right now is tinkering an equipment. Mr. Zen hearing what Cliff just said, turned to look at Cliff and said, ¡°So you have passed the examination, Congratulations! I hope in the future you will consider my shop in looking for equipment". Cliff put down the food on a nearby work bench and replied, "Of course sir! I put down the food on the work bench, you can just reheat the pasta in the microwave but for the cake if you are not eating it right now you just can store it the freezer." As Cliff said this Mr. Zen is in deep thought and looked at Cliff. "Mr. Zen I cannot keep you company for any longer I have thing to do back home, Good Night Mr. Zen!" Cliff said to Mr. Zen as he was still staring at him.
Cliff walked back to the front door and as he was about to open the door he heard," Kid! Wait!". Mr. Zen who is briskly walking toward Cliff." Tell me what job your going to take and I''ll make an equipment for you, free of charge!" Mr. Zen suggested. Cliff is confused on what is running on Mr. Zen''s mind and immediately asked Mr. zen why. "I owe your aunt a huge favor", Mr. Zen answered. "Favor?", Cliff let out.
"You know many crafters have a hard time finding a suitable place to start a workshop, on the first time I went here I''m completely broke and hungry yet your aunt still allowed me to stay, she said that I can pay her in next month if I find a suitable job in turn I did in the following week of staying here. I know that keeping this place up from her savings and rent is hard and the equipment provided by the Tavern for novices is sub par and I don''t want anything happening to you or your aunt might not take it too well, so tell me what job you are aiming for?" Mr. Zen said.
Cliff looked at Mr. Zen with respect, he did not know that Mr. Zen started out that way. "I qualified as a support class diver and still not read the materials the Tavern provided, for me to decide a job suitable for me," Cliff answered. Mr. Zen chuckled and said, "I will make you an equipment from the spare materials from my previous jobs. Remember this will be the only time I''m going to make your equipment for free, for the next job I''ll be charging you. Of course I can give you a little discount,"as Mr. Zen reminded Cliff. After their conversation Cliff thanked Mr. Zen and run back down to tell her aunt. Mr. Zen looking at Cliff running excitedly can help to let out a small laugh and said, "He reminds me when I''m just starting." Then Mr. Zen entered back in his apartment and continued on what he was doing.
As Cliff running down the stairs to tell her aunt the good news, he momentarily stopped and reached in his pocket to take out the drive and said," Boy I really need to read this tonight!". After this he continued run back to his aunt.
END OF CHAPTER
CHAPTER TWO
Cliff went back to the apartment and told his aunt the good news. His Aunt is really grateful for Mr. Zen, because she knows the struggle for a novice diver to find a cheap and good equipment; she made sure tomorrow to thank Mr. Zen.
Cliff told Loraine that he is going to turn in early, for him to read the materials given by the Tavern. Cliff went to his room and immediately took out the drive from his pocket and plug it to his PC. The drive contains a simple program that immediately installs to your PC. This program is made available for every one, but you have to pay 1000 credits to have it, so even if you are not a diver you can still have a general knowledge of being a diver. However if you ever passed the examination of the Tavern you can get this for free and if ever you decide to be a diver and join the Tavern, the program will be updated for your personal use. Cliff installed the program and started it, after he installed it. Immediately four icons appeared and each read out ¡°Tavern¡±, ¡°Juggernaut¡±, ¡°Slayer¡± and ¡°Support¡±. These four icons will directly link you to the information and brief introduction of the icon you click.
Cliff click the icon for ¡°Support¡± and instantly all basic info about the class and jobs under it appeared.
A Support class Diver uses his/her energy to provide heals shields and buff to his/her party. But Heals, shields and buffs are not only the capabilities of a support class diver, they can also disrupt enemies/beasts with their roots, de-buffs and displacement skills. Also they can provide a good damage but they cannot out damage the Slayer class, also some damage they do, provide a de-buff. For example the Stagger swing skill of a druid support, this skill when it hits give a chance of paralysis de-buff to an enemy /beast. Since Support class Diver have low to average energy, they are really good at controlling their energy. They need to provide heals and buffs while they are trying to note the energy they have left and use it wisely. There are three jobs under the support namely: Priest, Conjurer and Druid.
As Cliff read this, he saw the support class in new light and continue to read on.
Priests are heal and barrier focus job. This job requires keen sense of the party¡¯s health and well being because they cannot keep spamming heals and shields or they will deplete their energy quickly. Most parties have two priests to provide a heal sustain. Also the priest has the highest heal among the three jobs. Priest mostly use wands and staffs as their primary weapon and use large variety of light armors.
*Note: advance information about skills of a priest will be provided in the orientation of the Tavern
Cliff is thinking, if he choose this job he have to be good in healing and moving around the battlefield. He came to this conclusion by reading about the part the equipment used by the priest. Wand and staff plus a light armor which made this job kinda squishy, so moving around the battlefield is must and also while doing this he have to take note the well being of his teammates and conserve his/her energy. Cliff thought how a taxing job this is and if he made a mistake in either healing or positioning he might die. He now see Trevor, a rank four master priest mentioned by Mel earlier, a really excellent Diver. But Cliff still will think over being a priest for it is a taxing job. After this Cliff continued to read on.
Conjurer is a job that heavily focus in disrupting the enemy. They use their energy to produce illusions and de-buffs to deceive the enemy but do take note, sometimes illusion breaks early or the enemy is somewhat resistant to illusions. They can still do healing and shielding but it is the weakest among the three jobs. Most people on this job utilize good positioning to their advantage. Conjurers are often accompanied by their spirit beast. Spirit beast are like battle pet that boost or help their owner in battle. Most spirit beast used by conjurers boost their mental attacks for illusions to work flawlessly. But this kind of spirit beast is quite uncommon so some of them use a beefy or disruptive spirit beast so they can have time to cast/set-up their illusions. Also conjurers are great in setting up ambushes and some master guerrilla tactics for their advantage. This job uses staffs and arcane gloves as their primary weapon and uses from light to mid weight armors.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
*Note: advance information about skills of a conjurer will be provided in the orientation of the Tavern
After reading the brief introduction about Conjurers, Cliff was left with a somewhat a perplexed face. He knows that Conjurers are coveted for their disruptive abilities and most of them don¡¯t do healing in a fight. He was enticed to take this job because disrupting the enemy may decide if he will be surviving or not. But the downside is that spirit beast is rather expensive and most likely he will not have a beast compatible to him. If being a Conjurer is the job for him, he postponed his decision because he have not yet read about the last job in the support class. He continued to read on.
Druids focus in area lock-down (roots) and group healing. They also can do focused healing but cannot out heal a Priest. This is the only job that cannot provided barriers to their allies and do front-line work. Since they cannot provide barriers to their allies, in return they provide enemy displacement. They can either pull-in or push back enemy depending on the situation. Of the three jobs, Only the druid can function as an Off tank. Some druids choose to have spirit beast that can also provide lock downs. Also Druids are fairly mobile to move in and out fight, some of them train their bodies to provide better utility. Druids usually use one handed or two handed mace and small shield and wear light to heavy armor.
*Note: advance information about skills of a druid will be provided in the orientation of the Tavern
Cliff¡¯s eyes brighten after reading this. He really thinks this is the job for him. Though the downside is that he cannot place barriers, but he can make this up by using tools and equipment s. Also he can utilize the training his aunt provided since he was 11 years old. ¡°Rooting the enemy in place is better than tricking the enemy with an illusion, which have a lower probability of succeeding that locking one down.¡± Cliff talking to himself. He can do heals in an area or focused healing, even though it is somewhat weaker compared to a Priest, which is better than the measly amount provided by a Conjurer. ¡°If I can earn enough credits then maybe I can buy a spirit beast for myself.¡± Cliff said out loud excitedly.
Weighing the pros and cons of each job, Cliff was in deep thought. Priest can provide good healing and shielding but the job is very taxing for one person and also priest die easily if he/she positioned badly or focused by the enemy. Now a Conjurer is very enticing job, he can trick the enemy with illusions and provide de-buffs but provide measly heals and barriers and having a spirit beast is a must to help in setting up or assisting in making illusions. Spirit beast also cost a lot of money if you are looking for a compatible one. Being a Druid is like a combination of the two previous job. A druid can heal and disrupt enemy with lock down and displacements. Although he cannot place a barrier to himself or his teammates, he can tank for the incoming damage and heal back up. A down-side of this job is to have a good equipment to provide better utility but compared to a Conjurer¡¯s spirit beast, buying equipment is cheaper.
¡°Being a Druid is the most suitable for me. I can use my training I received from my aunt and some Druid can replace a tank in case something happens. This also can increase my own and my teammates survivabilty¡ DRUID it is!¡± Cliff said excitedly.
He continued to read until around 10 o¡¯clock and decided to read the rest tomorrow. He turned off his PC and when to bed.
END OF CHAPTER
CHAPTER THREE
The next day Cliff woke up early and started his morning routine. He started to get ready for a run, changing to comfortable clothes and shoes for running. He got out of his room and quietly move to the door of the apartment. His aunt is still sleeping and will wake up after half an hour. Locking the door as he got out, he started to do some stretches and turned on his body monitor on his wrist. Cliff route is to run 5 laps around their block and head to the park to do more moderate exercise.
As Cliff starts to run, he really thankful to his aunt for forcing him to exercise every morning. Even though her aunt has one arm, she still train her body every morning before preparing breakfast. Its been 9 years since her aunt took him in, many people think that Cliff can live on his own now that he is 20 years of age, even if Cliff wanted to do so but he cannot.
The will his parents left states that in any event that his both parents died, Cliff will be taken custody by his father sister, Loraine and will be in custody until Cliff reaches the age of 21 or Cliff will be a registered diver. Remembering this, Cliff cannot wait to be a diver and end the custody of his aunt; not that he does not like it, but the expenses his aunt dishing out is no small amount. If he became a diver early, he can now provide for himself and might help out the expenses around the apartment.
Finishing his run, Cliff walked towards the park. He saw few people are also exercising early in the morning. Cliff started to do push-ups near a park bench, as he was doing push-ups, from behind he heard someone call his name. ¡°Cliff!¡± said by the teen. Immediately Cliff stop doing push-ups and turned around and saw a girl and a boy standing a few meters behind him. He recognized the two as the Taylor twins.
The boy is called Marvin and the girl is called Lily, they are the same age as Cliff. Marvin and Lily are his first friends after moving in with his aunt. Marvin is the outspoken type while her sister, Lily is timid compared to her brother. Their family used to be a tenant in their building and move out after their father landed a big deal on their business. Now their family lives at a nearby subdivision and bought a house there.
Walking towards Cliff, the twins have eager face to know what happen to Cliff¡¯s diver examination. ¡°Cliff how did it go?!¡± Marvin immediately asked. ¡°I passed the exam and just needed to go back next week to register the job I chose.¡± Cliff replied. ¡°Nice! Why don¡¯t we go together next week we are scheduled the same as you.¡± Marvin offered. Cliff did not see the twins yesterday, because the twins took the examination a day earlier than Cliff. ¡°Have you finish reading the material given to you?¡± Lilly shyly asked. ¡°I¡¯m still reading and most likely to finish it around a couple more days.¡± Cliff replied to Lily. Looking at Lily, Cliff sighed because if Lily has her brother¡¯s confidence she¡¯ll become popular in the neighborhood. ¡°Lets meet at the warper station after a week.¡± He suggested to the twin in turn the twins nodded in agreement. ¡°I have to finish my exercise and cannot accompany you both any longer.¡±. After saying goodbye to the twins, he resumed doing push-ups. Cliff finish his morning routine after 45 minutes and walked back to the apartment as a cool-down.
Cliff arrived home about 10 minutes later, he saw her Aunt also finish her morning exercise also heading back to the apartment. ¡°Oh your also finish with your daily exercise, how about we spar a little bit in space behind the apartment,¡± his aunt said to him as they meet up at the entrance. Cliff agreed and proceed to the empty lot behind the apartment building.
Though Cliff rarely win against her aunt, he still likes this spars because it improves his body coordination and split second decision making. ¡°Same rules, land three hits and you win and if I pin you down I win.¡± Loraine reminded him. Cliff caught the wooden sword her aunt toss to him and starting to prepare for the upcoming spar. ¡°We will start as this coin hits the ground.¡± Loraine showed the coin and toss it to the air. Cliff is thinking of strategies to use against Loraine, as the coin sailed to the air. As the coined neared the ground, Cliff tightly gripped his club and prepare for the fight; *kling!* and the fight has started.
Loraine lunged forward trying to catch Cliff off guard from her sudden attack. Anticipating this attack, Cliff also lunged forward trying to counter attack Loraine. Loraine was surprise from this response, as just two about to collide, Cliff dodge to side and swing his sword to the open Loraine. Cliff swing his sword toward the stomach of Loraine, thinking he have landed a hit, Loraine stopped her assault and blocked the incoming sword. Cliff smiled and as the two sword collide, he immediately grab his aunt arm and slammed her to the ground.
After the exchange Cliff immediately retreated a few steps back in fear of a sudden counter attack of Loraine. ¡°Well played kid!, you exploited my weakness you landed a clean hit, two more and this will be over.¡± Loraine said as she got back up. Cliff smiled and shouted back, ¡°I¡¯m just doing what I learned.¡± He knows that his aunt weakness is her lack of one arm from sparring with her plenty of times. He just need her one arm to be busy with something else, and grab her to land a clean hit.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.
Again the two move in their stances and prepared for another bout. This time Cliff initiated the fight, he lunged forward and her aunt matching him, also lunged forward. Just like the previous exchange Cliff dodge at a crucial moment to land a hit. Just as he was about to swing his sword, his aunt thrown her sword toward Cliff. He immediately dodge the incoming sword and as he was about to recover from the surprise attack, his aunt was able to close in to him. Loraine punched towards Cliff¡¯s abdomen, but was blocked by Cliff. Loraine smiled and use Cliff¡¯s blocking arm as support for her to do a high kick towards Cliff¡¯s face. Processing what¡¯s happening, Cliff used wooden sword to block the incoming kick. Loraine was surprised that Cliff was able to block her kick by using the sword. Now that Loraine attacked failed she was practically open and Cliff immediately kick her aunt away from him. ¡°Nice one kid! But you can do better.¡± Loraine shouted to Cliff.
Breathing heavily after the exchange, Cliff is really thankful to the teachings of his aunt, because if that kick landed he will have to attend the orientation with a black eye. ¡°In moments of battle I have to be decisive or else I might die.¡± Cliff whispered to himself. In their stances once more her aunt shouted ¡°Time to end this, I still have to prepare break fast.¡±
After she said this, Loraine lunged forward, but this time she is twice as fast. Before Cliff could react he was slammed to wall and pinned down by Loraine. ¡°I win!¡± Loraine said with a smug face. ¡°No fair! You used a skill to accelerate faster.¡± Cliff voiced out and Loraine replied, ¡°What I always say when you lose like this?¡±. Cliff sighed and said ¡°If you see an opportunity or have an advantage, use it!¡±. ¡°That¡¯s right, now stand up and clean your self up and help me prepare breakfast.¡± Loraine said with smug face. Knowing he lost due lack of actual combat experience and skill gap, Cliff stood up and help her aunt prepare break fast.
After breakfast, Cliff said to Loraine he will go out to settle some matters. Putting on clean clothes and fixing himself up, Cliff walked towards the door and said goodbye to Loraine. Cliff started to walk towards the convenience store, 5 blocks away from his home, he reached for his phone and looked at the time, 9:30 am, it showed. ¡°I think boss will be there now¡± Cliff said to himself.
Even though Cliff is living comfortably with his aunt, this did not stop him from getting a part time job from the nearby convenience store. He took this job because he did not want to ask her aunt for allowance every week. This lighten the expenses her aunt is shouldering right now.
Nearing the store he saw a parked motorcycle outside the store. He is now sure that his boss in and walked toward the back of the store. Using his ID, he tapped on the scanner and the door unlocked itself. He opened the door and walked inside, seeing that his boss¡¯ office door is slightly open he walked towards it. *Knock knock* as Cliff tapped the door and said, ¡°Boss are you busy right now?¡±. From inside the room a voice replied ¡°Come in Cliff! I¡¯m just sorting some papers.¡± Cliff entered the office and saw a beautiful woman doing paper work. ¡°Boss Ava I¡¯m hear to talk about something.¡±, Cliff said.
The woman immediately looked up and replied ¡°What do you want to talked about.¡± Cliff always be stunned by the beauty of his boss. Ava Chen, is Loraine¡¯s friend who recommended him to do part time work for her. Snapping our of daze, Cliff replied ¡°I will be resigning from the store.¡±. Ava sighed and said ¡°Your aunt already told me you pass the examination. I know this will be coming but I did not expected to be today.¡± She immediately stood up and approach Cliff and proceeded to hug him. ¡°Congratulations!¡± she said as she let go of Cliff. Cliff was in a daze and remember the sensation of Ava¡¯s ample breast as she hugged him.
Snapping out, he immediately took out his BEEP card and handed it to Ava. Ava took the card and sat back to her desk and place Cliff¡¯s BEEP card over the BEEP reader. The BEEP card is like a wallet that is linked to your bank account. Most use this as form payment transaction because of the security it provides, no more carrying tons of cash around. As Ava is processing the final payment of Cliff, his phone received a message, he grab his phone and did not believe what he have read. ¡°Boss I think you mess up my pay, it so damn large.¡±. Ava giggled and replied, ¡°No that¡¯s the correct pay, I factored in your four years of working here and overtime you did plus you don¡¯t have any absents.¡±Looking at his boss, Cliff still did not believe what his boss said he just let be bygones, be bygones. ¡°Thank you boss!¡±, Cliff said. ¡°Just don¡¯t forget to visit from time to time.¡± Ava reminded in which Cliff agreed.
Cliff left the store and head back home. Thinking he has still many to read, he rushed home and immediately go to his room and to finish it. ¡°That kid still have long road ahead of him¡± Loraine as he saw Cliff rushing towards his room. ¡°I too must do my best to train him¡ I need to get serious for tomorrow''s spar and prepare nutritious meal to help him solidify his good foundation¡± Loraine said motivated by the tasked ahead
Just like that a week passed, Cliff is either reading and gathering information about divers or training with his aunt. The day of the orientation arrived, as he walked out door of his home, ¡°I¡¯m now in the starting line, lets see how far I can go.¡± he said and proceeded to the warper station.
END OF CHAPTER
CHAPTER FOUR
Cliff walked toward the station, upon arriving he saw Marvin and Lily waiting for him. Marvin saw Cliff and waved at him and shouted, ¡°Cliff we¡¯re here!¡±Cliff waved back and approached the twins. ¡°Are you ready for today¡¯s orientation?¡±, Cliff asked as he arrived in front of the twins. ¡°Of course, I can¡¯t wait to get started!¡±, Marvin replied and Lily also nodded in agreement. ¡°Lets go inside and buy our tickets to avoid rushing.¡±, Cliff said and started to walked towards the station.
The twins followed his lead and also head towards the station. As they were walking towards the ticket booth, a sudden question hit Cliff, He did not know what class did the twins qualified. After buying their tickets, Cliff took out his phone and texted Mel that he is on his way to the Tavern and they should meet up in front of the Tavern before entering.
There still some time before they get warped so Cliff asked the twins on what class did they qualify. ¡°Oh yeah we forgot to tell you in the park, I qualified to the juggernaut class while Lily qualified to the slayer class.¡±, Marvin replied to Cliff¡¯s question. Cliff was kinda shocked that the two did not have the same class, because most twins have similar energy when they are born. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect that you two have different classes.¡±, Cliff said to the twins. ¡°There some recorded cases that twins have different energy when they are born.¡± Lily said.
Cliff convinced to what Lily said, he asked, ¡°So what Jobs are you aiming for?¡± Marvin replied first, ¡°I aiming to be a vanguard!¡± and Lily replied, ¡°I think being a mage is suitable for me.¡± Cliff seeing the two, agreed to their decision. Marvin is an outspoken guy, so a flashy front line is really suitable for him while Lily being shy and timid, a back line damage is suitable for her. Ending their conversation, the three walked toward the designated platform for people going to the Tavern. On the platform, the three looked for a good spot and found one. Hearing the person on the PA system starting to countdown the three closed their eyes and waited to be warped. ¡°Warping in 5..4..3..2..1! *Whoosh!*
Upon opening their eyes, they saw that they have arrived to their destination. Cliff and the twins left the station and started to head towards the Tavern. Cliff is looking around, as they are walking along, trying to look for Mel as they are nearing the Tavern. He saw Mel sitting on the nearby bench as he is waiting for him to arrive and Cliff shouted, ¡°Mel!¡±. Mel, looking for the one who called him out, he saw Cliff waving to him and he immediately stood up and run towards Cliff. ¡°Man, I thought you backed out!¡±, Mel jokingly said. Cliff replied with a smiled and said, ¡°You wish! Oh these two are from my neighborhood. They are also here for the Tavern orientation.¡±
Mel greeted the two and said, ¡°I¡¯m Melsion Walter, I¡¯m a friend of Cliff in high-school and aims to be a Berserker.¡± The twins also greeted back and Marvin was first to reply, ¡°I¡¯m Marvin Taylor, a friend of Cliff and aims to be a Vanguard¡±, Marvin said. Following his brother, Lily introduce her self next, ¡°I¡¯m Lily Taylor, also a friend of Cliff and aims to be a Mage¡±, Lily said. Cliff was happy that the three got acquainted before the orientation started. Mel added, ¡°so Marvin, we have the same class.¡± Marvin nodded and feeling excited for the upcoming registration. ¡°Come on guys lets go inside and register, people will be arriving just right about few minutes from now¡±, Cliff said as he started walking towards the building. The three agreed and followed Cliff.
Inside they saw a huge lobby, then the group started to approach the Information desk. Arriving in front of the desk, Cliff politely asked, ¡°Good morning, I would like to ask where do new Divers will be registering?¡±. The lady at the desk smiled and replied, ¡°You just need to take the escalator behind me and you will immediately see the registration desk for new divers. Also the registration for different class is separated; Window 1 is for Juggernauts, Window 2 is for Slayers and Window 3 is for Supports. Upon registering, You will be presented with an ID, which tells your rank and proficiency and other important details. Also a Diver¡¯s watch and a drive, that contains the upgraded soft ware of your current Diver program, will be given out after you register.¡± Cliff thanking the lady then the lady added, ¡°The job orientation will held after you register, please head to the designated room.¡± Cliff again thanked the lady and proceeded towards the escalator with the three.
Cliff saw the registration desk upon arriving at the top of the escalator. The number of people registering is still a few because of how early their group arrived. ¡°Lets line up to our respective windows to register¡±, Cliff suggested to the group. Marvin, Lily and Mel agreed immediately. ¡°Marvin lets head to the window right now, a line is starting to build up.¡±, Mel said as he invited Marvin. The two separated from the group and lined up to register. ¡°I will be going to.¡±, Lily said excusing herself. After Lily left, Cliff heads towards the third window. Looking towards the third window, he saw that someone just finished registering. Cliff walked towards the window and upon arriving a lady greeted him.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.
¡°Good day! What job are going to register?¡±, the lady said. ¡°I¡¯m registering to be a Druid, is there anything I need to do?¡±, Cliff replied. ¡°Just place your hand to the scanner in front of you and we¡¯re just going to run your information in our database.¡±,the lady said as she pointed to where the scanner is. Cliff place his hand onto the scanner and a green line started to scan his hand. After the scan ended, the lady said, ¡°This will just take a few moments.¡±
A few moments passed then the lady started to talk, ¡°Clifford Weller, 20 years of age; currently living at District 2 of Greenville City. Parents are Stanford and Elize Weller, both died during a mission. Taken custody by his father¡¯s sister. No criminal record or minor offense. Passed both the written and energy test. Energy point is 45 and qualified to be a support class Diver.¡± Cliff heard this and then the lady added, ¡°Is the information correct?¡± Cliff replied, ¡°Yes!¡±. Then the lady said, ¡°I just need to see your National ID to confirm.¡± Cliff took out his wallet and showed his ID. ¡°This will take a few moments to issue your ID.¡± the lady said.
As Cliff waiting for his ID, his phone vibrated. He took out his phone and saw that Loraine sent him a message. The message read: ¡°Cliff, Mr. Zen ask me to tell you that you should drop by his work shop later.¡±After reading the message, he replied to his aunt that he will drop by later. The lady called the attention of Cliff then said, ¡°Here¡¯s your Diver ID, your Diver¡¯s watch and drive that upgrades your software. Please proceed to towards room 303. It is located on the third floor. The orientation will start at 9. Good day and welcome to the Tavern.¡±
The ID of the tavern is not an ordinary one. It is also an electronic device. This ID updates the status or rank of the Diver and also have a transmitter to locate the owner if in case he/she got lost. The ID showed a picture of him on the left side and his basic info on the right side. It also showed his rank and proficiency on the upper right corner screen, which read: Novice, Rank 1 Apprentice Druid. Flipping the ID on the back side, Cliff was amazed on what he have seen.
The back side of the ID keeps track of the missions you have completed. On the top left shows his rank below it the mission proficiency which is three, Apprentice, Elite and Master. Just across these three are three small screens that tally on how many mission you have completed on each proficiency, right now the numbers show zeros on each screen, because he have not completed any missions yet.
Then there two LED lights below, this lights up when you have increase in proficiency or when you are eligible to rank up. The LED on the right glows orange, when you have increase your proficiency. This will trigger the ID to transmit the information to the Tavern and updates both the database of the Tavern and your ID. The LED on the left glows green when you are eligible for a rank up. This will also transmit the info to the Tavern and then Tavern will send you a message thru your watch, scheduling your promotion exam, which usually gives you a week of preparation upon receiving the message. Cliff took the ID, the watch and the drive and put it in his pocket.
Cliff left the desk after the lady gave out her final instructions on what to do next. He waited for the three to finish their registration and out of boredom he started playing on his phone. Lily arrived first in front of Cliff; she saw Cliff was playing on his phone. Cliff stopped playing on his phone when Lily arrived and asked, ¡°How did your registration go?¡± Lily shyly smiled and replied, ¡°Everything went smoothly, I just got caught up with an old friend on line. The two should be arriving in a few moments.¡± As she was talking about the two, both of them arrived as if it is on cue.
¡°Man I thought that you left without us, we were just comparing our photos in our ID to know which one of us is uglier, sorry for being a bit late. On a side note Marvin won the ugliest picture award.¡± Mel said to Cliff. This made Lily laugh and Marvin retorted, ¡°Fuck you man! As you can see I¡¯m more handsome than you.¡± Cliff laughed and said, ¡°Okay guys enough with the jokes lets head towards our orientations.¡± Cliff looking on his phone for the time, it read 8:00. There still an hour before the orientation starts.
END OF CHAPTER
CHAPTER FIVE
The group took another ride on the escalator to reach the third floor. Upon arriving at the top, the group separated and headed towards their own job orientation. Before separating, Marvin suggested that they should meet up after their orientation. The group agreed and they decided to meet up in the lobby after their respective orientations.
Cliff walks around the third floor looking for his assigned room. It took him 15 minutes to find his room and upon seeing the room number,303 he immediately went in. Inside the room, he noticed few people already inside waiting for the orientation to start. The room for the orientation can accommodate around 30 people assuming all seats will be taken. Cliff choose a seat near the front to better hear and understand the upcoming orientation. Time passed on and people started arriving in the room. Cliff looked at his phone clock it showed 9:00, its time for the orientation to begin.
Cliff observed that not many new divers choose to be a Druid. They are only 20 people inside the room when 9 o¡¯clock arrived. Cliff inferred that druid is not a popular job.
As he was busy thinking, a man entered the room and proceeded to the front. This man looks like in his late 30¡¯s and he neither skinny nor muscular. He looks just to have the right fitness for his age. As this man reached the front, he eyed everyone in the room. ¡°Good morning! I¡¯m Glenn your assigned instructor for your orientation and also for your upcoming job training¡±, the man announced to the group. Cliff stared at Glenn trying to recall where he have heard or read that name. Liked getting zapped, Cliff now recalled who Glenn was.
¡°Glenn Lore, Specialist, rank 4 elite Druid; one of the rare Support class Diver that have a low casualty record. Also gained the moniker Iron Mace due to his excellent combat prowess using the mace. Most parties he have joined commented that he has one of the best zone control and sustain healing in the business. Currently he is grinding missions to increase his proficiency and rank according to rumors going around the internet¡±, Cliff awed in admiration to the instructor that in front of them and thinking on how long will he be able to catch up to Glenn.
Glenn cleared his throat and began to speak, ¡°I would like to congratulate you on passing your Diver¡¯s exam and successfully registering. Now before I begin, did everyone of you received your Diver¡¯s watch.¡± The whole room nodded in affirmation to Glenn¡¯s question. He continue, ¡°The watch you receive is personalize for your own use, just put your thumb on the screen of the watch and it will turn on. You can explore the watch features on your own.¡±
After the short introduction of the watch, Glenn again eyed the room and suddenly asked, ¡°what do you think is the most important trait of being a diver?¡± The room was silent for a few moments and from the back, a girl shouted, ¡°Energy!¡±. Glenn looked at the girl and urge her to stand up, then Glenn asked the girl, ¡°Miss, why do you think energy is the most important trait of a Diver?¡± The girl was in thought for a moment and the answered, ¡°Because we use energy to power skill we learned and the more energy you have the more skills you can use.¡± Cliff did not agree to the girl¡¯s answer. Right was he about to refute the girl, Glenn spoke, ¡°what you say is true but it is not the right answer?¡±
After he said this, Glenn noticed Cliff and said, ¡°Sir you seem to have a different opinion from what she have said?¡± Cliff stood up and answered, ¡°I think the most important trait of a Diver is their ability to learn. They can use their experience and knowledge to adapt and win any situation they are in.¡± Glenn chuckled and spoke to the group, ¡°What you have said is right, though energy is the basis of skills but not everyone is good at using them. Now always remember that not every mission is the same and not every Rift is the same. You must adapt accordingly on what you have learned.¡± The girl was about to question Glenn, but then Glenn continued to speak, ¡°Look at me, I don¡¯t have an abundant energy but still I climbed up the ranks and made my self known. You want to know how I did it? I keep learning and improve my craft.¡± The girl seated back when she heard what has Glenn said. The room was again quiet.
Glenn clapped to get the attention of the group. ¡°Now enough about me, we are here to talk about the job you chose,¡± said Glenn. For first half hour, Glenn talked about the basics of being a Druid. Cliff summarize what have Glenn said.
First a Druid is a support class diver, so conserve energy if possible and balance healing and zone control. Second be aware of your positioning, usually druids are in the middle of the party formation, so he/she can respond fast to any threat in the front or the rear. Third, mostly applicable to any class of Diver, improve and maintain a healthy body. He said that support have it rough when it comes to battles because most likely the are targeted by the opposition, so you need to have a good body to either evade or run away from attacks; but he also added that Druid sometimes do tanking duties, so be ready to get hurt and also build up some muscle just to be sure. Lastly, on what Cliff learned from the first half hour, master or be proficient in using your skills. Glenn said that mastery of your skills maybe the deciding factor if either you live or you die. The room became serious when he said this.
¡°Now we move on to skills,¡± Glenn announced and then the whole room became excited. ¡°All Novice rank 1 skills are free for you guys and any higher rank skills, you have to pay certain amount of credits to learn,¡± Glenn said. The whole group was shocked to know this. Cliff thought that all skill will be free from the start. Some one from the group raised his hand and asked, ¡°Why do we to pay to learn skills?¡± Glenn laughed at the stupid question by the young man. ¡°How do you think the Tavern will maintain their organization if they give all the skills for free? Remember any organization needs funding to run; sure the Tavern have sponsor but it is not enough to keep them afloat¡± he said to them. Glenn was scratching his head as if trying to remember something. He sternly said, ¡°Ah! also forget about trying to learn the skill from other sources, like asking a higher rank of the same class because they are not dumb to do it for free; they maybe even price you more.¡± He said this for their own good.
¡°Now that is your problem for later, for now please look at your phone, the Tavern should have sent you a file that contains the skills that you can learn. Please read it and we are going to have a 15 minute break for this, for when I come back I will explain and give some tips on each skill to you.¡± Glenn ended and he immediately left the room.
Some people left when Glenn left the room. Cliff decided to stay and read the file the Tavern have sent. He took out his phone and opened the email the Tavern sent. Cliff started to read and the file reads out;
DRUID SKILLS
Novice Rank 1
Roots/ Lock-down skills
1. Earth Bind
One of the signature skills of Druids, uses the ground beneath your target to lock them in place. There is a little cast time before it can be used. The user must send their energy to the ground beneath your target to manipulate the ground to bind their target. The cast range of this skill is 10 -15 meters from the user. The cast time is dependent to the user but usually 1.5sec is used to cast this skill. Energy cost minimal. Also take note that the surrounding terrain can affect the strength of the skill.
2. Stone Cage (a.k.a. Cage)
This skill encloses a circular area with walls made of earth/stone. The circular area has a radius of 3 meters and the Cage has a height that varies from 7-10 meters. The cast range is 4-8 meters and cast time of three seconds but can be improve. Also the strength varies on different terrains. Energy cost average.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.
Displacement skills
1. Energy Shackles
The user forms chains from his/her energy. Take note that there is no cast time for this skill but depends on user¡¯s proficiency on controlling energy. The chains can be use to grab a target and pull them towards the user. The chains have a max length of 7 meters.
2. Burst
Firing a condensed ball of energy that explodes upon contact to the target. The target is either push away or towards the user depending on the positioning of the blast. Can knock back multiple targets. Cast range is 5 meters and 2 sec cast time but can be improve.
Heals and Buffs
1. Healing wave
A group healing skill that send a wave of energy that heals your allies. The cast range is 10 meters and the AOE is around 2 meters. Cast time 3 sec and can be improve. Most used healing skill by Druids of this rank.
2. Revitalize
A single targeted skill that heals and alleviate some fatigue to a target. Cast range is 10 meters and cast time of 5 sec. Most reliable healing method of the druid class but also has the highest cast time for a rank 1 druid skill.
Cliff was excited while reading the file. He is now trying to choose which skills is he going to master first, while he was thinking, he notices that few people are starting to come back to the room. There¡¯s only five minutes left before the orientation will start again. Cliff settled down and return his phone to his pocket and waited for the orientation to start again.
Glenn walked in the room holding a cup of coffee and spoke, ¡°Now where was I; ah skills now you have read the file, I¡¯m going to demonstrate some of the skill but for the root skill I will just show you videos of them for we are limited by our venue.¡± Cliff was again excited because he is going to see a live demonstration of the skill which will make his decision easier. Glenn put down his coffee on a nearby desk and took a remote on it. He push the button on the remote and then a LED screen drop down in front. Before he played the video, Glenn said, ¡°I¡¯m going to show you first a video demonstration of the root skill; this will not take long so pay attention.¡± Glenn proceeded to play the video.
In the video showed a training session of 2 divers in split screen, whom both are the druids. They both have same level of equipment. They also have training bots to practice skills onto. The only difference is that the 2 divers are in different environment. The one on the left is on a rain forest environment, while the one on the right is on a desert environment. The two divers started to channel energy, ready to cast a skill any time.
The two shouted, ¡°Earth bind.¡± Energy shot out of their on both of their hands and aimed towards the ground beneath their targets. Upon hitting the ground, the ground beneath their target coiled around on the feet of their target. The bots are restraint by the earth binding them, then the 2 divers ordered the bots to move. The two bots moved and everyone was in awe on what happened next; the one on the left have difficulty moving because of the earth binding its feet, while the one the right moved like nothing is hindering it.
Glenn paused the video and immediately few have raised their hands to ask a question. Glenn said, ¡°i know what you all going to ask why the one on desert move like nothing is hindering it.¡± Glenn looked at the group and said, ¡°if you have read the file, there is apart there about roots that state ¡®strength varies on different terrain¡¯.¡± They nodded in agreement to Glenn because now they know what that statement pertains. ¡°As you have seen in the video your surroundings also affects skill, like here sand is more loose and can be easily be broken if you use it as the medium of your earth bind, remember be observant of your surroundings so you will not waste your energy. Now same can be said to the next root skill, Stone cage; it is also affected by your surroundings.¡± Glenn ended as he resumed the video. Like before same scenario but different skill is demonstrated. The two druid cast Stone cage to a targeted location, like before the wall made of sand is broken by the training bot, which further prove on what Glenn have said earlier.
Glenn again press the buttons on the remote, just like that the LCD rise up. ¡°Now we move on to displacement skill,¡± he said then he suddenly raised his hand upfront and made a ball of energy. ¡°Displacement skills for novice rank is more of energy manipulation,¡± he added and then he started to change the shape of the energy ball. He made it into a triangle, a square and many other shapes in just a few breaths of time. ¡°...so practicing your manipulation is the key to learn these type of skills,¡± he continued.
Then he formed a long chain-like structure with the energy on his hand and immediately swung his arm towards the coffee cup on the table. The energy coiled around the cup, then Glenn yanked the chain of energy towards him. The cup flew across the front towards him and he caught it and drank its contents. ¡°This skill is called Energy Shackle; this skill requires a certain degree of mastery to do. You have to form a chain from your energy and make sure that it is stable enough to hold or touch your target because if it is not then the chain will break easily.¡± he said after finishing his cup of coffee.
Glenn then change his energy to a small ball almost a size of a baseball. Glenn walked towards the table and place the cup on top; he then went back to his original position. Glenn concentrating, and then ball of energy shot up towards the table. The ball of energy landed on the table near the cup, upon touching the table the ball exploded with a small bang, but the small explosion pushed the cup off the table and left a small dent on the table. ¡°The skill I just demonstrated is called Burst; this skill requires you to enclose certain amount of unstable energy in a shell of stable energy. This skill is like a grenade but less the damage. It pushes any target away from the center of explosion. I only demonstrated the skill on a small scale so just watch the videos of this skill on your spare time.¡± Glenn said to the group.
Cliff became more excited from the demonstration Glenn did. He grasped some of the concept behind of the two skills. He can¡¯t wait to start training these skills. Glenn continued, ¡°the last two skills are healing skills so pay more attention because it might save your life in dangerous situation.¡±
Glenn then started to accumulate energy on his hand again. But this time, energy felt somewhat different and looks different, its green in color. Glenn then cast the skill towards where Cliff is sitting, Cliff and people in his immediate area felt that their fatigue went away and they felt like full of energy. ¡°The skill that I have just cast is called Healing Wave. This skill specialize on group healing, to those hit by skill, you felt like that your fatigue have gone away and your body is suddenly full of energy. This is the effect of the skill if you have no injuries but if you have it will just heal up.¡± Glenn ended.
The room began to be noisy because not all of them were hit by the skill so some are asking to those hit by the skill if what their instructor said was true. Glenn cleared his throat to get the attention of the group and then he began to speak. ¡°The last skill is called Reviatalized, like the previous skill it heals but only on one target.¡± Glenn said and he immediately form a green ball of energy. ¡°This what the skill looks like as for the effect I will just let you experience it by your selves,¡± Glenn added, as he casted it to a person near him.
The room began to question Glenn about skills which he answered flawlessly. Cliff took note of the tips and tricks Glenn saying to the group. Just like that an hour went by and the room began to settle down. Glenn again announce, ¡°If there no more question, we can bring this orientation to a close. A reminder the skills¡¯ manuals can be ordered from the Diver program you have, if upgraded but don¡¯t bother ordering the Skills we have talked about this orientation ¡®cause I will teach it to you all in our job training. Also be back here after three days for your job training, be sure to bring a week set of clothes cause we are ¡®diving¡¯ to a rank zero rift for your training. Anymore info about your training will be given after this first week of training.¡± Cliff is again excited for what is to come. ¡°The orientation is now over, See you in three days!¡± Glenn announced and immediately left the room.
END OF CHAPTER
CHAPTER SIX
Cliff left the room and headed straight to the lobby. Cliff is still deciding which skills he will learn; occupied by his thoughts, someone called him behind. ¡°Cliff!¡± Lily shouted as he approached Cliff. Cliff turned around and saw Lily approaching him. ¡°Your orientation is also finished?,¡± Cliff said to Lily when she arrived. ¡°Yes, we finish up early because the instructor cannot demonstrate the skill and just let us watch demo videos while she explains and gives tips for each skill,¡± Lily replied. ¡°Will you also be returning after three days?¡± Cliff asked. Lily nodded to Cliff question; the two started to head towards the lobby expecting that Marvin and Mel are waiting for them. Cliff and Lily arrived at the lobby to their surprise the other two have not finished their orientations. Cliff and Lily decided to sit down on a nearby bench; Lily again took out her phone to listen to music. Cliff also busied himself by playing mobile app games while waiting. Cliff remembered that he have to stopped by to Mr. Zen before going home. He stopped playing and texted Mr. Zen to let him know he is dropping by later. Cliff immediately opened the browser on his phone to search for a suitable weapon he is going to ask Mr. Zen make for him.
Cliff opened the site called Crafters Market, this website is manage by the Crafters Association. This site sells and buys materials for weapons and equipment. They also auction equipment here. Cliff immediately went to the link that sells and buys Druid equipments. Upon entering the page, Cliff saw tons of equipment for sale but most of them are maces, clubs and armors. Cliff trying to decide which weapon is suitable for him.
Maces weigh around 6-10 kgs and are made of runic steel or special type of wood. They are durable but somewhat heavy by Cliff¡¯s standards and they can hinder movement if not used correctly. Cliff still browsing looking for a suitable weapon for him and suddenly he saw a potential candidate for a weapon. What he saw is a cudgel; it weighs around 2-5 kgs and also can be made of runic steel and special type of wood. This is very similar weight and length the practice sword he is using when sparring with Loraine. Though it is lighter compared to a mace, it can still a decent amount of damage besides he is a support, most of the time he will just heal and lock-down opponents than do damage. Cliff decided to ask Mr. Zen to make him a cudgel rather than a mace. After that he kept browsing looking for good armor that he might buy in the future, then left the site to find basic cudgel techniques and styles for him to learn.
Finding a suitable technique, Cliff closed the browser and continue to play mobile apps to pass time. Around 15 minutes of waiting for the two, Mel and Marvin arrived in the lobby looking for either Cliff or Lily. Cliff saw the two looking for them and proceeded to call them out. ¡°Mel! Marvin!¡± Cliff shouted while waving at them. Mel turn towards to the one who called him and saw Cliff waving towards them. Mel waved back and immediately dragged Marvin towards where Cliff and Lily is. ¡°Sorry we¡¯re a bit late both our orientation took a while,¡± Mel said upon arriving in front of the two. ¡°So how did your orientation go?¡± Lily asked her brother. Marvin gave out a thumbs up and then replied, ¡°The orientation when smoothly but my instructor gave out a detailed explanation about aggro control; did your instructor did the same Mel?¡±. Mel nodded and then added, ¡°She also did that and also gave tips and tricks about my job which took a long time. From the looks of it she is a very experienced diver.¡± Cliff interjected, ¡°By the way, Who is your instructor Mel?¡± Mel trying to remember the name of his instructor and after some time he replied, ¡°I think its Rubia Vermillion.¡± Cliff was shocked hearing this name. Cliff enlightened Mel who his instructor was and replied in amazement, ¡°You idiot, your instructor is one of the few rank five Diver that still actively doing missions, Most Divers call her the Undying because when she on the job she cannot be stopped and can tank for days even on an injured state. Most praise her for flawless aggro control.¡± Mel was shocked knowing this piece of information, this also stunned the twins when they heard what Cliff have said. ¡°Man I really need to read more,¡± Mel sighed looking disappointed on himself. This explained why most people in Mel orientation approach her after the orientation. ¡°I could have gotten her signature,¡± Mel said while sighing. This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
Cliff also sighed because he could have met another incredible Diver. He looked at the twins and asked, ¡°How about you two, who are your instructors?¡±. Marvin was first to answer, ¡°My instructor is named Rick Evers. Don¡¯t worry I know who he is. He is a rank 4 Diver that rising in prominence this past couple of years.¡± Cliff know who Marvin is talking about. Rick Evers, the vanguard that rose to prominence by doing missions beyond his rank. His shot-calling is superb and most guilds and parties try to recruit him in doing mission.
Lily then answered next, ¡°My instructor is Raine Summers...¡±. The group immediately know who Lily mentioned. She an excellent mage from the Elemental Wings Guild. ¡°She is still a rank 3 master mage, I think her promotion exam is coming up but she postponed it because of this instructor job because her niece is attending this year Diver¡¯s orientation,¡± Lily added. But the group know Raine as the face of the Elemental Wings guild, she also part timing as an endorser and a model.
After conversing, Cliff looked at his phone and saw that it is almost lunch time. ¡°Hey guys want to eat lunch before going home?¡± Cliff suggested to the group. The three nodded in agreement to Cliff¡¯s suggestion. The group walk towards the exit and left the Tavern to look for a place to grab lunch.
CHAPTER SEVEN
After grabbing lunch, the group then went to the Warper Station. Cliff, Marvin and Lily went towards the District 5 platform while Mel went to the District 2 platform. ¡°Guys this where we part ways, see you in three days,¡± Mel said as he wave goodbye to the three. The three also waved back and get ready to be warped. In just a few minutes the warp process started, ¡°Warping in 5..4..3..2..1!¡± the PA system announced.
After a few moments, the three arrived at their district and they got off the platform then they head towards the exit of the Warper Station. ¡°This where we separate man,¡± Marvin said to Cliff as he and sister went the other direction. Cliff also said his goodbyes to the two and started to walk home. Cliff looked at his phone and saw that is a quarter before two o¡¯clock so he decided to drop by the convenience store on his way back. He like to check if everything is working fine after he left.
As he was walking towards the store, he saw Ava moving boxes of merchandise to the back of the store. Cliff walked towards his previous boss to help her moving them. ¡°Boss do you need some help?¡± Cliff asked Ava, as she was lifting a few boxes. Ava turn around and saw Cliff standing behind her so she smiled and replied, ¡°That would be my pleasure!¡±. Cliff grabbed the nearest box and started to carry it towards the back of the store.
It took both of them a while moving all of the boxes, which made Cliff a little out of breath. ¡°That some heavy boxes, Boss are you planning to sell new stuff?¡± Cliff asked Ava as she was a little out of breath after the task. ¡°No, I just advance my order for two months, its the reason why the boxes are heavier than usual. Yeah I forgot to give you something last time, just treat it a reward for helping me this time,¡± Ava replied and urge Cliff to stand up. The two walked inside Ava¡¯s office, Ava proceeded towards her desk and open its drawer. The drawer contains a gauntlet, Ava picked it and handed it to Cliff.
Cliff was dumb founded to what the reward Ava gave, its a piece of a Diver¡¯s equipment. ¡°Take it for I don¡¯t need it any more¡ I¡¯m well retired from my Diver days. Its a retractable buckler, even though its old it still works but let Mr. Zen check it first before you use it,¡± Ava said as he handed it to Cliff. Cliff is still in shocked to what Ava gave him and as he snapped out he asked, ¡°Why?¡± Ava replied, ¡°Just like I said earlier I don¡¯t need anymore. Also I have a condition before you can take it home.¡± Cliff immediately asked, ¡°What?¡± Ava again smiled as she was about to give her reply and then said, ¡°You must always come home to your aunt safe and sound.¡± Cliff firmly grasped the gauntlet and then he nodded.
Ava usher Cliff out the store, as he gave Cliff a sizable paper bag to put the Gauntlet away. As he left the store, Cliff stand at the entrance and he shouted, ¡°THANK YOU BOSS!¡± he then bowed towards Ava. Ava smiled and waved Cliff goodbye. Cliff left the store and he rushed towards home. He can¡¯t wait for Mr. Zen to check the equipment he just acquired.
Cliff arrived in front of the apartment, he rushed towards Mr. Zen¡¯s apartment to talk about his free equipment. Cliff buzzed Mr. Zen¡¯s door bell, *buzz..buzz*; he then heard a shout, ¡°Cliff is that you?¡±Cliff shouted back, ¡°YES!¡±. Mr. Zen again shouted, ¡°The door¡¯s been unlocked, just proceed to my work shop.¡± Cliff opened the door and walk towards Mr. Zen¡¯s workshop. Cliff arrived behind Mr. Zen busy with tinkering equipment s. Cliff tapped Mr. Zen¡¯s shoulder to get his attention. Mr. Zen turned around and saw Cliff behind him, he noticed Cliff is carrying a paper bag. Mr. Zen asked, ¡°What¡¯s in the bag?¡± curious of the hidden item. Cliff with a smile on his face took out the gauntlet from the bag and showed it to Mr. Zen. Mr. Zen requested Cliff to hand it over to him so he can check the gauntlet.If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.
After a few minutes, Mr. Zen finished checking out the gauntlet and then he handed it back to Cliff. He faced Cliff and said, ¡°The gauntlet you just showed is a BLAZE series, you can see the trademark flame below the fore arm. Though it is not rare, it is just hard to come by because some divers and collectors collect it for the crafting workshop did it is not in business anymore.¡± Cliff did not know this information about the gauntlet so he is somewhat stunned knowing it. ¡°It is a retractable buckler; this was popular years ago for tank Divers. It has a decent durability and can last a lifetime if maintain properly, by the looks of it has been well maintained. What do you want me to do with it?¡± Mr. Zen said to Cliff. Cliff replied, ¡°Can you customize it for my use?¡± Mr. Zen thinks for a while before he agreed to what have Cliff asked. ¡°Cliff I can customize it for you but if you decide to sell this piece of equipment the price might go down drastically, so do still want to continue?¡± Mr. Zen asked before he does the customization. Cliff excitedly nod in affirmation to Mr. Zen¡¯ s question.
¡°I will not charge you for this, now to the main agenda; what job did you choose and what kind of equipment do you want?¡± Mr. Zen asked Cliff. Cliff replied, ¡°Mr. Zen I chose to be a Druid and would like to ask you to make me a Cudgel.¡±
¡°A Cudgel? Is it kinda light for most Druids?¡± Mr. Zen asked Cliff. Cliff was not surprise to Mr. Zen¡¯s question because most druids go for heavier weapons to provide space for their damage dealers. Mr. Zen is still perplex when Cliff replied, ¡°I know that Mr. Zen, however the wooden sword I use in sparring and training mostly weigh the same as the Cudgel.¡± Mr. Zen hearing this reason did not further question Cliff¡¯s choice.
Mr. Zen then asked Cliff for any other request for the weapon, Cliff requested it to be more durable, so it can last longer, and for it be a good energy conductor. Mr. Zen agreed to Cliff¡¯s added request and he said that it will take him a couple of days to finish the customization of the gauntlet and to make the cudgel. Then Mr. Zen stood up from where he is sitting and then approach the closet near the door of his workshop. Mr. Zen open the closet and grabbed something within it. He again approached Cliff and handed him a Cudgel and said, ¡°Its pretty beat up but still can be used for practice. Don¡¯t worry I won¡¯t charge you for this. This thing is some of the weapons I made during my early years, you can have it so you can familiarize your self in using a Cudgel.¡±
Cliff is really thankful for Mr. Zen because he is still thinking on how will he practice the cudgel before the job training. ¡°Mr. Zen I¡¯m really thankful for this, I hope I can repay this favor,¡± Cliff said to Mr. Zen. Mr. Zen smiled and looked at Cliff before saying, ¡°You can repay me by coming home safe after every mission.¡± then Mr. Zen ushered Cliff out for him to work on his other projects. Cliff again thanking Mr. Zen before leaving for home. Cliff carrying the weapon home he acquired and excited for the training tomorrow.
CHAPTER EIGHT
Cliff walked down the stairs to head to their apartment while he is studying the practice cudgel Mr. Zen gave him. He noticed that there are boxes piled up to the apartment next door to them, while he is busy inspecting the cudgel Mr. Zen gave him.
Cliff entered their apartment, as he was walking in towards their living room looking for his aunt, he saw his aunt was entertaining a guest. ¡°Loraine, I¡¯m back, who is our visitor?¡± Cliff said to Loraine. Loraine turn around and saw Cliff just arrived, she replied to Cliff, ¡°Oh! Cliff this young girl is our new tenant, just like you she just had her orientation today. She will be moving to the next door apartment.¡±The girl look like the same age of Cliff, she have average looks and built.
The girl walked towards Cliff and then extended her hand for a handshake. ¡°Hi! My name is Evangeline Roberts, I¡¯m moving to the apartment next door. I¡¯m also just a new diver.¡± Cliff shook her hand and said, ¡°Pleasure to meet you! I¡¯m Clifford Weller but you can call me Cliff. Do you need some help moving? ¡®cause I¡¯m free right now.¡± Evangeline smiled then replied, ¡°That would be a great help! Also you can call me Eve.¡±
Loraine happy to Cliff¡¯s offer then said, ¡°That¡¯s a nice idea Cliff, just be home before dinner. Eve you should spend dinner with us tonight.¡± Eve embarrassed to answer because she does not want to impose any more to Loraine and Cliff. Cliff knowing that Eve might decline the offer, he then said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry my Aunt always gives free meals to new tenants and the food she cooks is always delicious.¡± Eve still embarrassed replied, ¡°If I¡¯m not being a nuisance then I will take that offer Ma¡¯am.¡± Loraine then patted the head of Eve. Cliff and Eve left the apartment and walked next door.
Eve walking upfront, suddenly turned around and bowed to Cliff. ¡°Thank you again for helping me and for the free meal for tonight,¡± She said. Cliff just smiled, then said, ¡°No biggie, besides my Aunt loves cooking and she always cook enough for 4 people.¡±
The two arrived in front of Eve¡¯s apartment, Eve then unlocked the door of her apartment for them to carry the boxes inside. Cliff stacked two boxes and carry them inside of the apartment. Eve, while carrying boxes inside, said, ¡°Cliff just place the boxes in the living room!¡± Cliff proceeded to the living room and put down the boxes, he then started again to get boxes in front of the door. Cliff noticed that some of the boxes are heavy, he guest that these are diver¡¯s equipment. As he was carrying boxes, Eve brought in a staff inside, which is on the boxes she is carrying.
¡°By the way, what job did you take?¡± Cliff asked as he was curious what Eve job was. Eve smiled then she replied, ¡°I¡¯ m a support class diver, my job is a Conjurer.¡± Cliff was happy knowing that there is support class like him nearby, which he talked about support stuff. ¡°I¡¯m a Druid, looking forward working things out with you, do you mind if I ask you a question?¡± Cliff replied to Eve. Eve nodded to Cliff¡¯s request as she put down the boxes she is carrying. Cliff continued, with Eve¡¯s permission, he asked, ¡°Do you have a spirit beast?¡±
Most Conjurers usually don¡¯t divulge any information about their spirit beast, because it might bring trouble to them. Eve somewhat hesitant but she waved her hand signaling something. Cliff saw that Eve was hesitant so he was about to tell Eve its alright not to answer but he was interrupted before he was about to say anything. Cliff noticed that a section of wall behind Eve started to shake and he was surprise to what happen next, a spirit beast begin to emerge behind Eve. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.
The beast looks like a chameleon but what make it different is that it has three eyes and its big as a cat. ¡°This is my partner, Speck, he usually hiding nearby in case I need some assistance,¡± Eve introducing Speck to Cliff. Cliff unconsciously extended his hand to touch Speck, as he was about to touch Speck Eve stopped him. ¡°Cliff please don¡¯t touch Speck, he might lash out,¡± Eve warned Cliff but what happened next surprise her. Speck leaped from the wall to Cliff shoulder, Speck looks like he knows that Cliff is not a threat to her master. ¡°Well that¡¯s a surprise, most of the time Speck distance himself to strangers and lash out if they try to touch him,¡± Eve said to Cliff some what perplexed to the situation happening.
Cliff picked up Speck from his shoulder and handed him back to Eve. ¡°You got a nice partner there Eve, take good care of him. Also I will keep it secret from others that you have a rare Spirit beast,¡± Cliff promised Eve.
Speck is a Mirage Chameleon, this type of spirit beast Chameleon is very rare. If a spirit beast egg of this Chameleon surface on the Market, most guilds and divers fight for it. Mirage Chameleons are very good in using illusions and hypnotic attacks, most people hunting for their eggs usually gets lost to illusion mazes they build to protect their nests. The third eye they posses are use to hypnotize prey and predator alike. Most Conjurers go for this spirit beast because Mirage Chameleon empower the illusions Conjurer¡¯s use.
Eve again thank Cliff for keeping Speck a secret. ¡°Let¡¯s resume with the moving so we can finish up before dinner,¡± Cliff said as he proceeded to pick up boxes. Speck also started pushing boxes to help ¡®cause Cliff already know he is here. Eve let a chuckle seeing Speck pushing boxes as she unpack the boxes in the living room.
The three took quite some time moving and unpacking boxes, by the time they are finish its almost dinner time. Cliff again invited Eve for dinner, this time Eve agreed to it immediately because she is quite hungry right now.
The two headed back to Cliff¡¯s apartment. ¡°Loraine we¡¯re back! The moving took some time but we have finish it,¡± Cliff shouted from the door. Loraine immediately welcome the two and ushered them to the table. ¡°I made beef stew tonight, Eve please help yourself, I made plenty this time,¡± Loraine said to Eve as she handed a plate of food to Eve.
The three eat dinner happily and finish eating after an hour. Cliff knowing its getting late offered to walk Eve back to her apartment but Eve refused and laughed because she know how close her apartment, then she replied, ¡°Cliff there is a limit on being a gentleman.¡± Cliff and Loraine also laughed and ushered Eve to the door. Eve again thank the two for helping her move and for the dinner tonight, then she walked back to her apartment.
¡°Well I¡¯m going to sleep Cliff, we have some training tomorrow. You better be ready.¡± Loraine said to Cliff. Cliff is exhausted from the today¡¯s events so he decide also to turn in for the night.
But to Cliff¡¯s knowledge there is a surprise waiting for him in his room
END OF CHAPTER
CHAPTER NINE
Cliff entered his room and he turned on the lights, as he turned on the lights he noticed a capsule on his bed and beside it, is a letter. Cliff picked up the letter and started reading it;
To Cliff,
This capsule contains a spirit beast egg that your parents left you. They bought this from me when you are just a toddler. They were planning to give this to you in case you decided to be a Diver in the future.
I took custody of this when your parents died, I know they loved you very much for them to think ahead. Even though this spirit beast is not rare but I manage to snag a variant of its species to give it to your parents.
Always remember that we loved you very much, please take good care of this ¡®new partner¡¯.
P.S.
I don¡¯t know how this beast is different from the regular ones. Just research it on your free time. Also you just need to impart some of your energy to the egg, for it to hatch and this will also make the spirit beast recognize you as its master.
Love Loraine,
Cliff eyes welled up with tears, even though his parents died they still are taking care of him; also he is very thankful of his aunt because she took him in with no hesitation and raised him on his parent¡¯s stead. Cliff wiped the tears on his face, then he picked up the capsule and opened it.
The capsule contains a black egg with blue markings all over it. Cliff trying to remember, where he have seen an egg that looks like this, he immediately open his PC to check what type of spirit beast his parents left him. Browsing from site to site, he have found what he is looking for.
The egg is a Weaver Spider, based on the appearance of the egg. Weaver spiders are known for their strong webs and skillful traps that can hinder many beasts and Divers a like. Unlike normal spiders, Weaver spiders are not small, they can grow as big as a full grown dog in favorably conditions, but most of the time their average size can be compared to those of a house cat. Also unlike most spiders, Weavers can also excrete their silk threads to their mouths; they are not limited to their spinnerets.
Examining the egg again, Weaver Spider eggs don¡¯t posses blue markings on their eggs. Maybe this what makes it different from the normal ones. Cliff still don¡¯t know how this egg is different from the others, as he takes a closer look at the egg. Since he don¡¯t know what to do, he proceeded to pour his energy to the egg and the markings on the egg starts to glow.
The glowing egg now begins to hatch and legs of the spider now can be seen from the cracks. After a few minutes the Weaver is completely out of the shell. The Weaver spiderling looks like a regular weaver spider but only one difference, the abdomen of the spider has a blue spiral mark.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.
The spiderling jump out of his hand and landed straight on his shoulder, right now its size can be compare to that of a large rat. As it was resting on his shoulder, he tried to communicate with it. First he gave out a verbal command, ¡°hey little fellow can you grab that pillow on my bed,¡± as points to the pillow on the bed. The spiderling understood what Cliff just said and it proceeded to do what Cliff have asked. The spiderling immediately spit out silk threads towards the pillow, as it connected to the pillow, it immediately pulled the pillow to them. The pillow sailed thru the air and landed in front of Cliff.
¡°So it can follow commands, after being born. Let me try another thing.¡± Cliff said as he put down the spiderling on the desk. The spiderling resting on the top of the desk, Cliff urge it to move left without saying anything. He is trying to test if it can follow mental commands ¡®cause spirit beast are bound to their master mentally. Like clockwork the spiderling moved to the left, he begin to try different commands which the spiderling passed flawlessly.
¡°This really improves it combat capabilities,¡± Cliff said happily to the spider. ¡°I just can¡¯t keep calling ¡®it¡¯, I should give it a name,¡± as he contemplates on what name he will give to the spiderling. Thinking of the a name, Cliff again noticed the blue spiral mark on the spiderling. ¡°I shall call you Gyre!¡± Cliff getting inspiration to the spiral mark on it.
The spider heard this and started to fidget around the table like it was agreeing to what Cliff just had said. The spiderling excited on having a name, spat out webbing towards Cliff by accident. Cliff was surprised and did not have time to dodge but block the incoming web with his hand. As the web touch his skin, Cliff felt like his energy is being drained from him. He noticed that while this is happening the spiral mark on Gyre begins to glow, then he immediately removed the web that is sticking on his hand. The mark on Gyre is still glowing and Cliff noticed that Gyre is more energetic compared a few minutes ago. ¡°This is really weird; based on what read about weaver spiders, they don¡¯t posses this kind of ability,¡± Cliff said as he looked at Gyre with a confused face.
Cliff still confused on what happen, he began to test this ability of Gyre. Cliff urge Gyre to spit out again web towards his hand for him to learn more about this ability. The web again hit his hand; just like the previous event, energy begins to drain out from Cliff and the spiral mark on Gyre begins to glow. Cliff again severed the connection, feeling exhausted but happy at same time, because this improves his battle prowess with the help of this ability of Gyre.
Gyre seeing his master looking exhausted, Gyre spat out a thread towards Cliff. As the two are now connected, Cliff begins to feel more comfortable and like his energy being replenish at a rapid rate. Cliff again looked at Gyre and noticed that the spiral mark on Gyre is getting dimmer and dimmer until its completely out.
Cliff more ecstatic than ever, finally understood Gyre¡¯s ability. ¡°Gyre is like an energy battery, he can either absorb energy from his target or share energy to it,¡± Cliff said as he picked up Gyre with a happy face. ¡°with this I can have more control and energy in any situation,¡± Cliff said as he can¡¯t wait to test Gyre¡¯s ability on a real battle.
Cliff calmed down a few moments after he understood Gyre¡¯s ability. He stared at Gyre then said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry I will take good care of you, for you¡¯re my parents last and greatest gift.¡±
After an hour of showing Gyre around his room, he prepared a simple bed for Gyre and put him on it. ¡°Sleep now ¡®partner¡¯ ¡®cause there is a big day ahead of us tomorrow,¡± He said to Gyre as he put him to sleep.
After Cliff tucked in Gyre, Cliff change into his pajamas and also went to bed. Thinking of tomorrow¡¯s training, he can¡¯t wait to get started.
CHAPTER TEN
Cliff woke up early and he felt like something was on his chest. He saw Gyre was sleeping on his chest, he slowly got up and woke up Gyre for it move. Cliff was happy that Gyre likes his company and picked him up from the bed and put it on his desk.
Cliff started to prepare for his daily exercise, as Gyre was observing him on the desk. Cliff opened his dresser and put on a shirt and a jogging pants but is still looking for his shoes in the dresser shoe rack, however the shoes are beside the door of his room. Sensing what Cliff was looking for, Gyre spat out web strings to the shoes and yanked them towards Cliff and landed behind Cliff. Cliff was surprise as it landed behind him, he saw his shoes with a little webbing on it.
Cliff stared at Gyre and was happy that Gyre was helping him. ¡°Come on Gyre lets get out the room to start training,¡± Cliff said after he put on his shoes. Gyre is excited and immediately jumped on his shoulder, Cliff let out a small laugh and picked up the practice cudgel beside his desk. Cliff got out of his room and walked down the hallway with Gyre on his shoulder. The two proceeded to the door and quietly left the apartment.
Cliff proceeded to space behind the apartment, he decided to train with Gyre today ¡®cause he wants to explore Gyre¡¯s capability and skills and also he wants to start his training in using the cudgel for he only have three days before the job training.
Cliff walked towards the shed nearby to get the two training dummies he used to practice with Loraine. Cliff opened the shed and drag out two dummies from it and placed one in middle of the lot and the other to the far side of the lot. The two moved away from the dummies to begin their training.
Cliff put Gyre down and took out his phone to look at the notes he took down last night about Weaver spiderlings. ¡°It says here that most Weaver spiderling have three skill upon birth; These are Camouflage, Web Wrap and Lacerate,¡± Cliff talking to himself and on his notes contains an introduction of each skill.
First the Camouflage, this skill makes the spiderling blend to it surroundings. Most of the time, the spiderling use this to hide from predators ¡®cause it is still weak upon birth. But they can also use this to set up trap and ambushes to catch prey. Cliff is happy to know that his partner have a way to escape any danger if the two of them got separated in the future.
Next is the Web Wrap Skill, this skill makes the spiderling spit out a net-like web that wraps the target to hinder its movement. Spiderling use this to catch prey and sometimes use it to hinder any predator that would try to harm it. Cliff looked at Gyre and realize that he have another rooting skill from Gyre¡¯s Web Wrap.
Last is the Lacerate skill, this is the only offensive skill of Weaver spiderlings. They use their front legs to slash their target. Cliff looked the front legs of Gyre and saw that they posses razor sharp claws. The claws can be retracted so it cannot bring harm to itself and Cliff.
Cliff now know the basics of Gyre¡¯s basic skills, he then proceeded to command Gyre to display each skill. First the Camouflage skill, he mentally ordered Gyre to use it; Gyre¡¯s body started to change its color to match the green grass of the lot. Gyre blended to the surrounding grass but you can still see him if you look carefully. He then ordered Gyre to move around and he let out a laugh because of what happened next. Gyre looks like a moving grass and can be easily noticed due to this. Cliff now knows the major drawback of this skill its that Gyre cannot move around while the skill is active because it will immediately tell his position. This is skill is good for setting up traps and ambushes if Cliff needed it in the future.
Next he ordered Gyre to use Web wrap to the practice dummy, as he points at it. Gyre immediately understood Cliff and started to form a golf ball size of web from its mouth. After a few seconds, Gyre finished with his preparation spat towards the dummy. The ball of web sailed thru the air fast in the direction dummy. As it was about to hit the dummy, the ball exploded and covered the target with web. Cliff walked towards the dummy to inspect the web covering it. Cliff tried to pull the web covering off the dummy, to his surprise the thin web was able to withstand Cliff¡¯s pull and it did not break. He also noticed that his hand was stuck on webbing and try to remove his hand from the dummy which took some effort on his part. This web was sticky enough to hinder any movement, if the dummy can move.
The last skill, lacerate, being only the offensive skill Gyre have right now; makes Gyre to attack the target in melee range using his retractable claws. Cliff is worried because Gyre is just a spiderling right now, he might be in danger if he approach any target in melee range in actual combat. Cliff ordered Gyre to perform the skill, in an instant Gyre rushed toward the dummy and attacked it using the skill. After Gyre performed the skill, Cliff again approached the dummy to take a closer look. The slash on the dummy is deep enough to cause severe bleeding, if the use on a live target.
Gyre was happy and jumped to Cliff¡¯s shoulder waiting to be praise on the good job he have done. ¡°You did great partner, but always remember not to be complacent and please don¡¯t show your drain ability to anyone right now because it might cause trouble for us,¡± Cliff said to Gyre, as he patted the spider as a reward; Gyre understood and jumped down from Cliff¡¯s shoulder.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.
Cliff ordered Gyre to train his skills on the dummy but he emphasized to Gyre that he should be proficient in using Camouflage and Web wrap first for its great utility in fights. After he gave out his order to Gyre, Cliff started to warm up before he start practicing the cudgel.
Cliff picked up the cudgel and did some practice swings, after he properly he warmed up. Cliff found it comfortable using the cudgel ¡®cause the weight is almost same as the wooden sword he used to train with. Cliff approach the second dummy and proceeded to hit it with the cudgel. Due to the rounded head and lack of edge of the cudgel, it only leaves dents to the metal body of the dummy. Also he noticed that the dummy moves a few centimeters back, as it was being hit.
After he did some practice swings and learning basic movement using the cudgel, Cliff started to do his ¡®Shadow¡¯ practice with the dummy.
Shadow practice Cliff refers to, is a practice technique Loraine taught him. This technique requires you to picture your opponent and imagine his/her movements and attacks. Cliff imagined his aunt as his opponent on to the dummy, he immediately distanced himself from the dummy. Picturing Loraine as his opponent came easily to Cliff because he have fought Loraine couple hundred times and he have a good know-how of what Loraine might do in a fight.
Cliff entered his fighting stance and thinks the dummy as the real Loraine, he cannot be hasty in setting up his attack. Cliff rushed to dummy Loraine and getting ready to strike it, but in his mind the dummy Loraine will counter attack if it noticed Cliff try to attack. Cliff even though knows this, he still proceeded to strike the dummy Loraine. In his mind, the dummy Loraine stopped the strike by striking back Cliff. Cliff dodge to avoid the strike and immediately swung the cudgel to the center mass of the dummy, striking it back.
Cliff again distanced himself from the dummy Loraine. He know how much pressure he feel fighting the real Loraine so even though this Loraine is just an imagination he cannot slack off, knowing from experience. Cliff again started his training, this time he will be clean with his execution.
Cliff trained like this for a couple more hours before stopping to rest. He is now getting more familiar using a cudgel and use it effectively, if he ever needed to fight, he then put down the cudgel and see how Gyre¡¯s training is going.
Cliff looked towards the center of the lot and surprise to see that the dummy is covered with webs and cuts. Cliff was glad that Gyre did not slack off but he can¡¯t seem to find him anywhere so he try sensing where he is. Then he notice something unusual with the wall surrounding the lot. It was Gyre latched to the wall, hiding using the Camouflage skill. Gyre became more proficient using it and it took Cliff sometime finding him, which resorted to Cliff using the connection the two of them share to find him.
Gyre sensing his master is looking for him, immediately Gyre canceled the skill and rushed towards Cliff and was ecstatic to show his progress to his master. Cliff laugh as Gyre was in front of him and drags Cliff towards the web covered dummy. Cliff again patted Gyre for praising him doing a good job.
Hearing the noise from the vacant lot, Loraine woke up and try to see what was happening. Loraine put on his training clothes, then she proceeded to the vacant lot.
As she was walking towards the vacant lot, she saw the Cliff and his new spirit beast are getting along real well. Cliff noticed that someone was looking at them and immediately turned around and saw it was Loraine. He immediately picked up Gyre and rushed towards Loraine. Cliff hugged Loraine tightly as if he have been a lost child that found his parents. Tears again begin to welled up on Cliff eyes ¡®cause he knows how much his parents and Loraine sacrifice for him.
¡°Loraine thank you!¡± this are the only words could muster right now. Loraine looked at his nephew and she too became a little emotional. She urge Cliff to stopped crying then said, ¡°Promise me one thing Cliff, always come home safe.¡± Loraine hugged Cliff for a few more seconds and let him go after. ¡°what are we standing around for we need to polish your skills and who is this new partner of yours?,¡± Loraine said as she wipe the tears on her eyes and moved to vacant lot to start practicing. Cliff followed Loraine, wiped his tears and can¡¯t wait to introduce Gyre to Loraine, as Cliff also started to get ready for the upcoming spar.
Just like that three days passed and the day of the job training came...
END OF CHAPTER
END OF FIRST ARC
Intermission 1
Finishing up their training, Loraine wipe her sweat and asked Cliff, ¡°...so do you know what Gyre eats? Because I don¡¯t think he might eat the food I might prepare.¡± Cliff catching his breath after the training and look at Loraine tries to abate her worries. ¡°Don¡¯t worry Loraine, I did my research; Gyre is omnivorous so he can eat anything.
Unlike most spider beast, Weaver spiders are omnivorous. They eat plants and meat alike but they have taste for fibrous plants because this tends make their silk thread stronger. Loraine feeling relieved but still told Cliff that he should buy suitable food for Gyre in the future.
After tidying up the lot, Loraine and Cliff with Gyre on his shoulder, went back to the apartment to prepare breakfast. As they were at the door of their apartment, they saw Eve was just heading out. Eve was wearing her running attire and she was preparing for a morning run.
¡°Eve going for a run?¡± Loraine asked. Startled, Eve turn around and saw Loraine and Cliff drench in their sweat. Eve replied, ¡°Yes ma¡¯am! The job training is nearing, so I¡¯m thinking to do light exercises to avoid injuring myself.¡± Cliff looking like an idiot, did not think about injuring himself during training. Loraine sensing Cliff¡¯s worries and said, ¡°Cliff I think we should stop sparring for a while...¡± Cliff looked at his aunt and break out a smile.
¡°We will not accompany you further, but you can drop by after your training to get some breakfast,¡± Loraine said to Eve, as she invites her to have breakfast after training. Eve with a bright smile said, ¡°No thank you, I have prepared my meal before I started my training.¡± Eve again said her goodbyes and walked out of the apartment building.
Loraine and Cliff entered their home and both directly went to their rooms, to change their sweat drench clothes. After a few minutes, the two went to the kitchen to prepare breakfast. Cliff also brought Gyre, he put him down on the kitchen counter near the fridge. Cliff open the fridge, looking for something Gyre could eat. As he was browsing the contents of the fridge, Cliff found celery and took out a stalk and gave it to Gyre.Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.
Gyre immediately began eating upon receiving the stalk. Cliff is happily watching Gyre eat then all of a sudden he was smacked on the head. ¡°If your not helping then you will not eat,¡± Loraine annoyed from Cliff¡¯s dilly dallying. Cliff immediately started to prepare the table to avoid getting smacked again. Loraine cooked a simple breakfast and put it on the table after cooking.
While the two were eating, Loraine asked Cliff, ¡°are you already set for your job training?¡± Cliff looked at Loraine with a dejected look, then replied, ¡°No...I still not picked an armor going to use.¡± Cliff sighed after telling Loraine his status.
Loraine stood up from the table and remembered something, so she immediately left the kitchen to get something from her room. Cliff was surprised from Loraine¡¯s action but he continue to eat. Loraine came back after a few minute carrying a box.
Loraine moved her plate and placed the box on the table. She opened it and took out some thing within it. Loraine held up a gray colored armor from the box, then said, ¡°you can use this body armor, it was your fathers when he was your age.¡± The gray armor collected dust and have few dents here and there but can be repaired. Looking at the armor, Cliff thinks that it might fit him.
¡°This armor is made from Armaboar hide which posses metallic-like property. Its strong and durable while being light. Your father used this when he was starting out, he gave this to me when I first started as a diver.¡± Loraine added. Cliff knows how difficult to take down an Armaboar because of its strong hide, so making an armor out of its hide is really fantastic. ¡°I gonna ask Mr. Zen to customize it for you,. This should lift some burden on your part. Just find good shin and arm guards to complete the set,¡± Loraine told Cliff.
Cliff took the armor from Loraine¡¯s hand became a little emotional. His father have used this armor, the dents showed how hard his father worked.
Cliff again thanked Loraine for the armor and promise take good care of it, he then put it again inside the box. Loraine was happy she could help and put away the box then said, ¡°We should finish up eating for we have a lot to do.¡± Loraine asked Cliff to bring it to Mr. Zen later. After all that, the two happily ate their breakfast
CHAPTER ELEVEN
The belt bag was made by Mr. Zen and he personalized it for Cliff¡¯s own use, only Cliff can get the items inside it by energizing the rift gem with his energy. Also, he can browse the content of the bag by syncing the diver¡¯s watch to it and take out items using it. He just needs to select the item from the watch and tap the withdraw click box, then the item will be withdrawn from the bag. Cliff again checks the watch to look at the stuff his going to bring. ¡°Armor, cudgel, gauntlet, greaves, spare clothes, spare phone batteries and charger, toiletries and Gyre¡¯s food. All seem to be inside,¡± Cliff said out loud, which woke up Gyre. Gyre heard the last part about food, so he immediately got up and jumped down the bed and climbed on Cliff¡¯s shoulder. Cliff chuckled and patted Gyre, he then put him down on the desk and started to change his clothes.
After Cliff finished changing up, he picked up his phone and saw that there was an unread message. Cliff opened the message;
Sender: Tavern Management
Every new diver that is participating in the job training will have to go to the specified room stated below for a briefing before diving
Please be guided accordingly
Room 102 ¨C beserkers...
...
Cliff reads the message and he skimmed the room list to find his designated room. Cliff saw that it is the same room where he took his orientation, Room 303.
Cliff and Gyre left the room and headed towards the kitchen, to grab some food to eat before they both leave for the job training. They saw that the lights were on and both them peered thru the kitchen door and saw that Loraine was already up and cooking breakfast. Loraine noticed that someone was looking at her, so she turned around and saw Cliff and Gyre were peering at the door. Loraine smiled and invited the two inside the kitchen.
¡°Cliff you can set up the table and after you can just wait till I finish cooking. Also, I¡¯ve already prepared some food for Gyre, you can just give it to him,¡± Loraine said as she pointed at a small dish of veggies and meat on the table that was reserved for Gyre. Cliff feels more energized than ever, started to prepare the table. He put down Gyre on the table and gave him the food that Loraine prepared for him. Gyre starts to eat happily while Cliff finishes preparing the table.
After finishing preparing the table, Cliff sat on a chair and waited for Loraine to finish up. Loraine carried the food on the table after a few minutes. She really prepared a hearty breakfast for Cliff; stirred fried rice, eggs, bacon, sausages, some toast and juice to wash it down. Cliff started to get hungry just by looking at it, so Loraine sat down so they can begin. Thus the two began eating.
As the two were eating, Loraine began to speak, ¡°Are prepared for the job training?¡± Cliff swallowed the food in his mouth and replied, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m already set.¡± Loraine smiled then said, ¡°Ok, also take these!¡± she took something out of her pocket and threw it towards Cliff.
Cliff caught the small wrapped up box. Its size can be compared to a chocolate bar, he weighed the box with his hand and can say that is very light. He removed the wrapping and saw that something was written at the back of it. It read; Kid, I don¡¯t need this, you can have them.
This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.
Even though the message was short, Cliff knew who gave it, Mr. Zen. He then stared at his Aunt; Loraine notices that looking for some explanation. She then said, ¡°He gave them to me when I happen to pass by after I inspected the other apartment upstairs.¡± Cliff was happy that Mr. Zen was looking out for him, so he opened the box. The contents were four green vials with an ¡®EX¡¯ labels on them, Cliff was shocked that Mr. Zen just gave these away.
The vials were healing tonics based on the color of the vials and the ones Mr. Zen gave out were the very famous Elixir tonics. Though they are not that expensive, the market of these tonics is heavily controlled by the Tavern. A single Diver can only purchase two Elixirs at a time but a diver can have four elixirs at hand. These are life-saving medicines so the tavern would like to avoid a single entity hoarding it.
Cliff energized his belt bag and put it inside, then his watch sounds off telling him that elixirs were successfully placed inside the bag.
After 30 minutes he finished up his breakfast, Cliff stood up and prepares to leave. Cliff walked towards the door and Loraine was behind him, he then said, ¡°I will be back after a week. Wish me luck!¡± Loraine smiled and hugged Cliff and said, ¡°Be safe and play nice with others.¡± Cliff laughed back and with Gyre on his shoulder, the two headed out.
Cliff outside the door of their apartment, he saw that Eve was also heading out, he called her out, ¡°Eve, Good Morning! Hey, want to walk to the station together?¡± Eve heard Cliff suggestion, then replied, ¡°Yes, that would be nice.¡± Cliff and Eve walked out of the apartment complex and head for the station.
As they are walking, Cliff introduced Gyre to Eve and noticed that Speck is not with Eve. So Cliff asked Eve, ¡°By the way where is Speck?; is he hiding right now ¡®cause I can¡¯t see him.¡± Eve answering Cliff question, replied, ¡°I did not bring him with me, for he might really stand out ¡®cause you know how rare he is. Also, I talked to your aunt yesterday if he could take care of Speck for the duration of the job training. She agreed, so I introduced Speck to her last night.¡± Cliff knowing his aunt, if it can make her tenants comfortable and relax, she will do any task.
Cliff and Eve continue chatting until they arrived at the station. Cliff immediately saw Marvin and Lily waiting for him at the entrance of the station and he and Eve approached them.
¡°Good morning guys! Have you been waiting long?¡± Cliff said as they arrived in front of them. Marvin smiled and said, ¡°Not that long really, who¡¯s the girl beside you?¡± Marvin looking at Eve, so Cliff introduces her to the two, ¡°This is Evangeline Roberts, she''s the new tenant at our apartment and just like us, a new diver.¡± Eve stepped up and said, ¡°You can call me Eve and I¡¯m a conjurer,¡± Marvin and Lily also introduce themselves and shook Eve¡¯s hand.
Cliff also introduces Gyre to the two. Marvin really wants to touch Gyre but he avoided him. Unlike Marvin, Gyre really likes Lily¡¯s company and Gyre proceeded to jump on her shoulder. Marvin with a defeated look decided to let it go. Cliff and the gang finished with the introduction, proceeded inside the station to get warped to the Tavern,
Upon arriving at the Tavern, they saw that Mel was waiting for them. the group called him out, after that they entered the Tavern together. Cliff did not need to introduce Eve to Mel anymore, because they have met the day before yesterday when Mel visited his aunt to ask about something job-related.
The group separated at the lobby to go to their designated rooms. Cliff is shaking with excitement and can¡¯t wait for the job training to get started.
END OF CHAPTER
CHAPTER TWELEVE
Cliff immediately took the escalator to reach the third floor, he then walked to his designated room. Upon arriving in front of the room, he opened the door and saw that room was not vacant; people from the last orientation were already there. Again he picked a seat near the front and waited until Glenn arrive to start the briefing.
The door was opened and Glenn entered the room, he immediately went in front of everyone. Glenn cleared his throat and began speaking, ¡°Okay some major announcement. The job training will not be a week anymore, it will be 11 days including today. As for the reason, I¡¯m not sure, so don¡¯t ask.¡± After that Glenn stopped speaking, to give them a good while for them to process what he just said.
Cliff was surprised by the announcement, he immediately thinks of a reason from this action of the Tavern. Then he remembered that Raine¡¯s niece is also participating this year¡¯s job training, rumors tell how she dotes her niece. So maybe, she is the reason behind the change of schedule of the job training.
Cliff thinking of it no more took out his phone and texted Loraine about the change in arrangement. After that, he put his phone back in his pocket.
Glenn noticed that everyone has finished informing their respective families and have settled down, so he continued with the briefing.
Glenn getting their attention, began speaking, ¡°Now to the main agenda. I¡¯¡¯m here to brief you the basics of diving and give the general idea of how this job training will work.¡± He then produced a ball of energy on his hand, he then spoke, ¡°Please focus your attention on the ball of energy. This ball represents you, as you can see it is stable but if add more energy to it will become unstable.¡± Glenn proceeded to add more energy to the ball. After some time, the shape of the ball cannot be maintained and then it exploded.
The people were surprised by the explosion, but Glenn continued speaking. ¡°Now this is the same as you entering a rift. The energy from the rift enters your body causing it to become unstable. Though you will not explode, your energy channels might be damage some that suffer from this injury retired early.¡±
Glenn senses everybody¡¯s worries, so he continued speaking. ¡°Don¡¯t worry this rarely happens, to avoid this you just need to be relaxed as you enter the rift and just let the energy from the rift flow thru you. Don¡¯t oppose it, if you do you will know what will happen.¡± The group¡¯s worries were slightly abated but will still be cautious entering the rift.
¡°Next to the place where we will hold the training. The place is within a rank zero rift and known as the ¡®Diver¡¯s Camp.¡¯ ¡°Glenn announced to the group.
The Diver¡¯s Camp, the facility that the Tavern built to train new Divers. This facility lets new divers experience working within rifts. But a few years back this facility does not exist, it only came into reality when the Tavern noticed that new Divers are having difficulty completing a mission. According to their research, most new Divers don¡¯t have the experience and knowledge in actual combat, so most sucked using their skills while some have trouble in adjusting to the energy beyond the rift. In order to solve this problem, the Tavern decided to build a training facility for new Divers where veteran divers will share their wisdom and knowledge to the greenhorns; it''s like an apprenticeship program. Also, they built the facility in a world beyond the rift, so new Divers can easily adjust to the changes in energy if they go diving in the future.
Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.After the implementation of the Diver¡¯s camp, the success rate of new Divers completing missions went up. Also, some of the veteran Divers have found an easy way to rake in cash, so most applied to be the instructor on these job trainings.
¡°Since today the is the first day of the training, you will just tour the facility today upon arriving,¡± Glenn said. Looking at the group is excited and nervous at the same time, Glenn continued. ¡°Now I will explain the arrangement of the job training.¡± Glenn talked for about ten minutes to let everybody know how the training will flow.
First, there will be classes every morning which starts every 8:00 am and will end at 11:00 am. He reminded everyone that anyone that will be late will have to run laps at the afternoon training and the number of laps they going to run will be determined on how many minutes they are late for the morning class. The classes will provide the knowledge needed in being a Diver, this includes monster classification and flora identification.
Next food and lodging for them are provided by the Tavern. The cafeteria is opened from 6:30 am to 10:30 pm and the food provided is free but reminded them not to overeat cause it might affect their performance during training.
Lastly, the practical training will be held in the afternoon. This where each of them will hone their skills and fighting capabilities. The afternoon training will start at 1:00 pm and will run thru 6:00 pm, after that they are free to use their spare time before dinner. But Glenn suggested that they should practice more after the practical lessons, to improve themselves. Also, there is a curfew, everyone not in their room by 11:00 pm will be punished.
¡°Having said the important stuff, we will now proceed to the room assignments. The rooms are co-ed, so boys and girls behave yourselves,¡± Glenn announced, which cause quite a stir in the group. Sighing, Glenn speaks up, ¡°The purpose of this camp is to train you, so it''s not a simple sleepover.¡± Hearing what Glenn has said the entire room settled down.
Glenn again speaks to announce which people are roomed together. ¡°Clifford Weller, Eleanor Spring and Chadwick Price will be on Room 10,¡± Glenn said which caught Cliff¡¯s attention. Cliff began to look around the room to look for his roommates but failed cause everyone tried to do the same, so he decided to do it later.
Then a ring was heard thru out the room, everyone looks for the source of the sound. Then Glenn took out his phone and answered it. He talked to someone for about a couple of minutes then he ended the call.
Glenn again get everybody¡¯s attention and speak up, ¡°Guys we¡¯re proceeding to the basement of the Tavern, everyone follows me.¡± Glenn ushered them out the room and proceeded to lead them to the basement of the Tavern.
END OF CHAPTER
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
Glenn approached the door and punched the code on the num pad near the door, then a retinal scanner appeared at the peak hole of the door. Glenn leaned in for the scanner to scan his eye. After a few moments, the door was unlocked and Glenn opened the door.
Inside, Cliff saw a spacious hall that can handle a large number of people and at the middle of the hall is Rift Portal. Also, people are already inside the hall seated on the chairs prepared by the Tavern whose waiting for them to arrive.
¡°Everyone gather around! You can see we have arrived at the basement,¡± Glenn said as he gathers everyone¡¯s attention. Glenn then ushered them to join the people in the basement, then he walked towards where the other instructors have gathered. Noticing that everyone was already accounted for, Rubia went in front of the group and stood on the podium that¡¯s in front of the rift portal.
¡°Good morning everyone! I¡¯m Rubia Vermillion, the head instructor for this year job training,¡± Rubia announced. Getting everyone¡¯s attention, she began speaking again, ¡°Now behind me is the rift you¡¯ll be diving. Now everyone might be wondering, why there is a rift below the Tavern.¡± As she said, everyone was wondering why there¡¯s a rift below the Tavern. Rubia smiled and wants to satisfy everyone¡¯s curiosity, then she said, ¡°This is an artificial rift that the Tavern R&D is developing. Using the warp technology from warper stations, they have created this portal device that can sustain an artificial rift. This will make it easy in the future to travel to rifts without the hassle of going to the place were the rift opened. However, you need two of these portals to travel; one for this side and the other will be inside the rift. This device will tear a hole inside rift and also this one will make a hole from our side. They will act like a wormhole that you can use to enter the rift. Since this technology is still in development, I would like to ask everyone to keep it under wraps for now.¡±
Everyone was amazed at how the portal works and how far technology has gone. Cliff gazed at the portal and was curious how portal was powered, so he raised his hand. Rubia looking at the group, notice someone have a question, so she entertained it. ¡°You sir, what would you like to ask?¡± She pointed at Cliff. Cliff stood up, then said, ¡°Ma¡¯am I¡¯m just curious how do you power these portals ¡®cause I imagine that they consume a terrible amount of power.¡± Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.
Rubia let out a hearty laugh, then said, ¡°Yes! It does, but the people from the R&D figure out a solution.¡± Rubia took out a golf-ball size purple gemstone out of her pocket and held it high to show it to the group. ¡°This is an Arcane crystal, these things power the portal we gonna use today. These are by-product produced by rifts, though most of the time these Arcane Crystals does not possess enough power to power these portals. However, the R&D department found a way to harvest high energy crystal,¡± Rubia said, but she did not divulge any information on how the Tavern harvest Arcane crystal.
Cliff satisfied with Rubia¡¯s answer, he immediately sat down. Then, a guy approaches Rubia and whispered to her ear. Rubia smiled and announced, ¡°Everyone, the portal is ready for transport! Remember the basics of diving your instructor taught you earlier. Also, we¡¯re going in by groups, please line up by class with Slayer class first, then followed by the Juggernauts and lastly Supports.¡±
The group immediately grouped up by class and the group starts to be a little rowdy. After a while, groups of people started to enter the portal. Cliff and people from his group started to calm down, to prepare themselves for the upcoming dive.
After all the last of the Juggernauts dive thru the portal, finally it''s their turn. Cliff was nervous for his first dive, he is trying to stay calm for him to avoid what was Glenn told them earlier. After a few minutes, it was Cliff¡¯s group turn. Cliff and his group walk up towards the portal and readied themselves to dive.
Cliff was first to enter the portal. Something felt weird as he crosses thru the rift, he feels nauseous while passing thru it.
Still feeling a little nauseous, Cliff arrived on the other side of the portal and saw that some could not handle their first dive vomited on where they are standing. After the last batch of Divers, Rubia signal everyone to gather ¡®round. They were in a spacious hall just like the basement under the Tavern then Rubia announced that they have arrived at Camp.
Then a lady walked beside Rubia and tapped her on the shoulder. Everyone immediately recognized the lady, she was Sidney Lewis.¡°I''m the manager of this Camp. Everyone follow me upstairs so I can give you a general tour,¡± Sidney announced. Cliff brushing off the nauseous feeling and follow everyone upstairs.
END OF CHAPTER
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Sidney Lewis, one of the best rank five marksman. Though she not in active duty this past couple of years, no one has beaten her record for the fastest time to complete a rank five promotion mission. It only took her one week to finish the one month mission the Tavern gave out. She got the title the best marksman because the number of headshots she accomplished during her career which was a staggering amount. Though Cliff cannot remember the exact number, he knows that in the 500¡¯s range. Also, he remembered that Sidney is from a different continent, the Skye continent. As Cliff was occupied in his thoughts, Sidney stood in front of everyone.
¡°As I said earlier I¡¯m the manager of this Camp. My name is Sidney Lewis and I¡¯m a rank five elite marksman,¡± Sidney announced to everyone. Everyone was in awe when she mentioned her proficiency and rank so she continued, ¡°Everybody knows that this objective camp is to train you for your respective jobs, so everyone should do their best.¡± Sidney looked at the group and she smiled, and she added, ¡°Also, there will be a mock party battle for the final two days of camp. This is to evaluate every one of you if you have learned anything.¡± Everyone was shocked by this surprise announcement of Sidney.
¡°Now everyone please settle down, you still have plenty of time to form your party. Your instructor will explain the rules and mechanics to you all,¡± Sidney added as she observed the reaction of everybody to the announcement.
Everyone now has settled, Sidney continued on, ¡°For the first day of camp will just be a general tour of the facility so let¡¯s get going.¡± She smiled at the group and signals the instructors that its okay for them leave and prepare for tomorrow¡¯s training. When the instructors left, Sidney continued on, ¡°The place we are right now is the practice grounds, its one of the six major facilities in this camp.¡± She then pointed at the three nearby building and everyone looked at where she was pointing.
Cliff also turned around to see what Sidney was pointing at. She was pointing at the three colored building behind them. The color of the building is as follows from left to right; red, gray and blue.
Sidney continued speaking, ¡°The three buildings behind you are part of the training ground. The red building is the shooting range, it houses the target practice area of the facility. Next, the gray building is the virtual reality building. This is where you will simulate battle scenarios you might encounter in the future. Last is the blue building which is gravity simulation building. This building can simulate different gravitational forces to ready any of you for any changes in gravity you might encounter while you work on the rift. Also, all Tavern branches have a gravity simulation room so you can use them on your spare time.¡±
Next, Sidney signal everyone to follow her. Sidney led the group away from the practice grounds and followed a path leading to the building that is at the end of the path. After a few minutes, the group arrived at the said building which has a sign that says ¡®General Office¡¯ that also has a large entrance.
¡°This is the General Office building. This where the staff and instructors will stay for the duration of the job training. As you can see, we are at the lobby of the building that serves as the waiting and leisure area for instructors and divers. The second level is the staff office so if you need anything or any questions you have you can proceed there. The third level is the sleeping quarters of the staff and instructors,¡± Sidney told the group.
Cliff was amazed to the effort the Tavern put in developing this camp, they even allotted a building for the staff and instructors. The building has nice decor and has some of the latest technology their world has to offer, like the hologram bulletin board they just pass thru the entrance of the building. Also, the lobby where they at right now is like a tunnel that leads to the other facilities of the camp.
Sidney again signals the group to follow her. She led them out of the General Office and arrived at the Camp¡¯s plaza. She then said, ¡°This is the plaza, you can freely do anything here just don¡¯t break any of the rules of the camp.¡±
Next, she pointed at the building on the right of the plaza, then said, ¡°The building on your right is the library. It houses every information you need. We have books and devices that can aid you in learning.¡± The group looked at the Library building and find it bigger than the General Office building. ¡°The first two floors house the books and the computers of the library while the upper levels are the classrooms you¡¯re gonna use tomorrow for classes," Sidney told the group. She then proceeded to get everyone to look at the building on the left of the plaza.
¡°Now this building on your left is the Infirmary, do if you get injured during training just go to this building. They have the latest medical devices and medicines to treat your injuries,¡± she said.
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The group again began to move to leave the plaza. Sidney led them out the plaza and followed a stone path. Everyone saw in the distance that there are two more building they are going to visit.
They arrived in front of the two buildings and Sidney stood in front of them, then said, ¡°This is the barracks and the mess hall. The left building is the barracks while the building on the right is the mess hall.¡± Everyone was amazed by the size of the barracks. It is twice the size of the General Office building.
¡°Okay, a few more announcements before we part ways. The barracks is divided by class; the first floor of the building is the sleeping quarters of the support class, the second floor is for the slayer class and the third floor are for the juggernaut class. There is a communal shower area at the basement of the building and a break area on the fourth floor. Also, each room has there own bathroom. I think that¡¯s everything, so see you tomorrow for your training.¡± Sidney said and after that, she left them.
Then a staff came out from the barracks and urge them to enter the building. The group followed the staff and went inside. ¡°Your instructor announced earlier your room assignment. Also, every door in each room is fingerprint activated, so only you and your roommates can enter the room,¡± the staff said to them and then two more staff members came out. The three staff then divided them by class and each of the staff guides them to their rooms.
Cliff¡¯s group followed the staff that welcomed them and went deeper in the first floor of the building. The Support class arrived at a spacious hallway, then the staff said, ¡°This where you all be staying for the duration of the training. Please be mindful to your adjacent room and keep your room clean and tidy. Thank you!¡± The staff then left them for them to sort themselves out.
The group began to become excited and rowdy. Some of them found their roommates, but Cliff still can¡¯t find his roommates for there many people at the hall the staff left them. Cliff just proceeded to find his room just like the others.
He walked along the hallway to find his room. He arrived in front of it and noticed that a girl was already in front of the room, Cliff approached the girl to greet her. Cliff tapped the girl''s shoulder and the girl turned around. Cliff recognized this girl, she was the one that answered Glenn¡¯s question about what is the most important part of being a diver. Cliff showed a conflicted face, he remembered that he rebutted her answer, so he thinks she might have held a grudge on him.
¡°Hi! I¡¯m Clifford Weller and I will be your roommate for the duration of the training,¡± Cliff said and he extended his hand for a handshake. The girl stared at him then she smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯m Eleanor Spring, I think I know you from somewhere.¡± Cliff was sweating profusely and nervous that Eleanor might be angry with him. Eleanor then said, ¡°Ah! I remember now your the one that rebutted my answer during the orientation.¡±
Eleanor wore an angry expression and she got closer to Cliff. Cliff closed his eyes ready to be hit or pushed but then he heard laughter. Eleanor is laughing her ass off from Cliff expression earlier, then she shook Cliff¡¯s hand.
¡°Don¡¯t worry Clifford. I¡¯m not that petty to hold a grudge against you just because rebutted me. Also, you can call me El,¡± Eleanor said. Cliff still recovering from Eleanor¡¯s prank so he replied, ¡°I thought you¡¯re still mad about it and I don¡¯t know how we¡¯re going to interact for the whole job training.¡± Eleanor again begins to laugh to Cliff¡¯s reason.
After settling down Cliff again began to speak, ¡°El you can just call me Cliff only my grandma calls me Clifford. Let''s enter the room so we can choose where to bunk.¡± El agreed to Cliff¡¯s suggestion and she proceeded to place her thumb on the doorknob. It then scanned her thumb and the door instantly unlocked.
The two proceeded inside the room and was surprised that someone was already inside. A young man around the same age as them was already inside, sitting on one of the beds, sorting his things out. El then approaches the young man and said, ¡°You must be Chadwick Price, our other roommate. I¡¯m Eleanor Spring and that guy is Clifford Weller, nice to meet you. Chadwick then stood up to greet them back, ¡°You can just call me Chad and nice meeting you.¡± El and Cliff smiled back and also asked Chad to call them by their
Then Gyre that was camouflage the whole time, showed himself to Cliff¡¯s roommate. Cliff then introduced Gyre, ¡°Oh! This is my partner Gyre, he is weaver spider.¡± El was not that surprised but Chad was ecstatic when he saw Gyre.
¡°Cliff can I touch him!¡± Chad excitedly asked. Cliff then gave permission to Chad, so he put Gyre on top the bed. But as Chad tries to touch Gyre, Gyre avoided him. Suddenly, Gyre jumped off the bed and landed at El¡¯s arms. El began to laugh so again Chad try to touch Gyre but Gyre hid behind El. After a few minutes, Chad gave up and Gyre becomes friendlier to El.
The three chatted for a while and make themselves comfortable in their room. Then they decided to leave the room to stroll around the camp.
END OF CHAPTER
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
The three arrived at the grounds, and they saw that few people also have the same idea of touring the camp before they all start their training tomorrow. Cliff with El and Chad went to the open grounds to survey their practice area. ¡°This place is pretty big. They really put some work developing this place,¡± Chad exclaimed as they were walking around the field. Then El run up ahead of them because she saw that there is an equipment shed ahead. The two immediately followed her to check out the shed.
El arrived at the shed first and was trying to figure out how to open the shed. Feeling defeated that she can¡¯t open up the shed door, she immediately asked the two for help when they have arrived in front of the shed.
Chad was trying to figure out how the shed door opens, he noticed that a voice box was placed near the door of the shed. Chad said, ¡°Look there is a voice box beside the door. I think you need to state your name to open it.¡± El immediately did what Chad said, ¡°Eleanor Springs!¡±
The door immediately unlocks so the three can enter the shed. Inside the shed were equipment used for training on an open field. Like the terrain alternator, it is an equipment that can alter the terrain of a piece of land. It can create hills or produced uneven ground that can be used in training and landscaping.
Looking around inside the shed, Cliff saw a Shooter. This piece of equipment brings back memories, his aunt used this equipment when he was just starting on training him. Though the one at Cliff¡¯s house still functional but seeing a brand new one really get him pumped up to start training.
The shooter is an equipment that shoots electric currents at a target. Though the current is not lethal, it still gives a shock that feels really uncomfortable. This piece of equipment is mostly used as a reflex and dodge enhancement device because you need to dodge each electric shot it shoots to avoid getting shocked.
The three was amazed by the number of equipment inside but decided not to mess around with it. Cliff suggested that they should visit the other building before lunch. The two agreed and they left the shed to head over the other buildings near the practice ground.
As they were walking, the three encountered three guys of their age but did not mind them; however, the three guys had other plans. Cliff noticed their motives but decided not to take action right way cause he doesn¡¯t know who the three are targeting. As they were nearing Cliff and his friends, one of them decided to bump Chad; but little did they know Chad had a sturdy build under that nerdy appearance.
The two collided but the one that stumbled was the perpetrator of the event. Chad noticed that he had bumped into someone and stretched out his hand to lend a hand. But the guy shoved his hand away then said, ¡°Hey are you fucking blind did you not see me coming!¡± Chad replied with a straight face, ¡°Sorry man! I did not think that you would bump onto me.¡±
Then Cliff and his friend started to go on their way but the three guys could not let it go. ¡°Hey! I¡¯m still talking to you. Don¡¯t you think you can leave just like that!¡± the guy said and immediately jumped towards Chad to punch him. Luckily Cliff was with them and he immediately blocks the incoming punch.
The guy could not believe that his surprise attack was blocked by Cliff so he immediately ready to punch again. However, he was kicked away by Cliff on the stomach area and landed to the two other guys with him. After getting up, the three guys immediately took their stances to attack Cliff so El and Chad also readied themselves to help Cliff. However, Cliff signal the two to stand down and said in a calm tone, ¡°Don¡¯t worry guys I can take them.¡± Cliff then took a stance similar to his aunt¡¯s. The three guys rushed toward Cliff so Cliff decided to do the same.
Cliff recalled what Loraine said about outnumbered fights. ¡°First check your surroundings and your opponents, if there is anything you can use as an advantage, USE IT!¡± the voice of Loraine inside Cliff¡¯s head said. Cliff looked at his surrounding but he can¡¯t see anything that can help him in this fight. Next, he looked at his opponents, all three have well-built bodies but he noticed that the one he kicked earlier is still in pain from the kick. He decided to take him out first. ¡°Try to decrease the number of your opponents if possible,¡± Again the voice of Loraine told him. He immediately lunged himself to the guy he kicked earlier. Cliff immediately did a low sweep to trip the guy in front of him. The guy was surprised by Cliff¡¯s action and he did not have the time to react so he tripped from Cliff¡¯s attack. As he was falling, Cliff punched the stomach of the guy and the guy fell while in deep pain. ¡°NEXT!¡± Cliff exclaimed and he rushed towards the other two.
The other two guys were dumbfounded from what had happened and steeled themselves for any action of Cliff. Cliff fast approach was seen by the two so both of them tried to attack Cliff at the same time. ¡°Kite your opponents, let them do their thing but always look for an opportunity to counter-attack,¡± the voice of Loraine said. Cliff dodges every attack the two did, there some close calls but he dodges them anyhow. Then Cliff saw an opening, one of them let out a punch towards him so he immediately grabbed the outstretched arm and performed a shoulder throw. The other guy behind Cliff that was going to attack was hit by his thrown friend. Cliff let out a breath and calm himself down. ¡°Loraine¡¯s advice does come in handy every time,¡± Cliff said to himself.
Then a staff member of the camp appeared and said, ¡°What¡¯s going on here?!¡± Cliff immediately answered, ¡°We¡¯re just doing some light spars. Right guys?¡± El and Chad immediately nodded, as for the three guys on the ground groan in agreement for they did not want any more trouble for today. The staff member was still skeptical but decided to leave it be and said, ¡°Please refrain from any activities that might cause you any injuries for the camp have yet to start.¡± After the staff member said this she immediately left.
Three guys got up and the one Cliff took down first speak up, ¡°I¡¯m Vance Pines, a vanguard. You! Who are you?¡± Vance pointed at Cliff so he replied, ¡°I¡¯m Clifford Weller, a druid.¡± Vance and his friends were shocked and could not believe that they were taken down by a support. Vance with a bitter look on his face then said, ¡°We will settle this on the mock battles, so be ready!.¡± Cliff smiled and said, ¡°Sure!¡± Then, Vance and his friends left the grounds.
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El and Chad approached Cliff with ecstatic looks and asked him where did he learn to fight like that. Cliff answered, ¡°Though those three are pretty skilled fighters, they are a lot weaker compared to my aunt. You see my aunt is a former Diver and have decent rank too. She trains me almost every day and her techniques and combat experience was passed down to me.¡± The two were amazed but was not shocked because most Diver families tend to train their family members that have aspirations of becoming a diver before any one of them takes the Diver¡¯s exam.
Chad looks at his watched and saw that it is almost time for lunch. ¡°Hey guys why don¡¯t we grab some lunch before we continue our tour of the camp,¡± Chad suggested to the both of them. Cliff was feeling a little peckish after the fighting he did so he immediately agreed. El also agreed and was the one leading the group towards the mess hall.
The three made their way back towards the mess hall and arrived there after a few minutes. The mess hall is a spacious hall with many tables inside. The counter is up front where you can order any food you want and everything was paid for. But Cliff remembered Glenn¡¯s advise and not to overeat. The three proceeded to the counter and ordered their food. Cliff ordered the fish set meal while both El and Chad ordered the burger steak meal.
After ordering their meal, they looked for any vacant table they can seat. Chad then pointed at a vacant table near the corner of the hall so the three proceeded to go occupy that table. The three settle down and started to eat and talk about how amazing Cliff was earlier, then a voice called out his name. ¡°Hey, Cliff!¡± Mel shouted as he waves towards Cliff. Cliff smiled back and invited Mel over so he cleaned up some space for Mel to place his food on.
¡°Hey man! Did you also toured the place?¡± Cliff immediately asked Mel as he sat down the chair. ¡°Yeah, I did. Together with my roommates, we have already visited the library and the shooting range,¡± Mel said to Cliff. Suddenly remembered that he had not introduced El and chad to Mel so he immediately introduced the two. ¡°By the way these two are my roommates, These rieis Eleanor and Chadwick,¡± Cliff said as he introduced the two. Mel then sstretch out his hand to offer a handshake to both El and Chad. Both took turns to shake Mel¡¯s hand, then Mel said, ¡°I¡¯m Melsion, a friend of Cliff but you can call me Mel for short.¡± The two smiled and asked for Mel to also call them by their nicknames.
¡°Hey guys there¡¯s already a rumor going around the camp that some Druid took down three members of the juggernaut class,¡± Mel said and knowingly smiled at Cliff. Cliff smiled back and said, ¡°Man why are looking at me for, you have no proof that it was me.¡± Mel then laughed then said, ¡°there only a handful of people that I know that can handle three guys at the same time.¡± Cliff giving up the facade and openly admitted to Mel that he was the druid that rumors are pertaining at. Mel chuckled and asked, ¡°What¡¯s the name of the guy you mopped the floor with?¡± Cliff answered, ¡°Some guy name Vance.¡±
Mel then gave out a satisfied look and said, ¡°The Pines kid, that guy had it coming. He was very arrogant while we were touring the camp earlier. He always tries to flirt the girls from our class but was always pushed away by them.¡± Cliff then said, ¡°He does have some temper issues. He can¡¯t keep a cool head while we exchange a few blows which led to his downfall.¡± Mel then sighed, ¡°That¡¯s not why he lost, you''re just too strong for him to handle.¡± As Mel said this line, he remembered when he joined Cliff for training. He did not even last a few minutes from Loraine¡¯s attack during the spar so he was surprised when Cliff can push back Loraine during the spar.
The four finished eating their lunch and decided to leave the mess hall. Mel separated from them to joined his roommates again to tour the camp. Since the three are full from lunch, they have decided to visit the library to past the time. Cliff the suggested that they should part ways inside the library to better enjoy their visit and for them to do a little reading on their own.
The three entered the library and immediately go their separate ways. Cliff immediately heads towards the section of the library that has books, thesis, and articles that talks about monster variation and evolution. He really wants to know the unique characteristic of Gyre and what caused it. Cliff is looking for papers that mention weaver spider variations or evolution. Then as he was browsing through books and research papers, he chances upon the research paper of Albert Tolbert.
¡°Weaver Spider Variants by Dr. Albert Tolbert,¡± Cliff read out the title. He quickly picks it and finds a place where he can read it in peace.
Settling down, he opened the book and was perplexed by the contents. He noticed it is more of a journal log than an actual research paper. He read through it and somewhat understand how Gyre acquires his unique ability. Here what he has learned.
First, weaver spider eggs tend to adapt to the surrounding it is in, he guessed that Loraine found Gyre¡¯s egg in a place where there is an incredibly high amount of energy. Next these spiderlings have a considerable chance to acquire unique physique; for example, Albert stated in his log that he once had a spiderling that is resistant to fire because it was found near the mouth of a volcano. It acquired a heat resistant shell when it was developing inside the egg. Lastly, from what Cliff understood that there be certain tells that the spiderling is variant. A common tell is that the egg will be different and the spiderling that will come out of it will possess strange markings or have different look. Albert stated in his log that his fire-resistant spiderling have a shiny covering and two small horns can be found on his head.
Cliff now has a little understanding of how Gyre became a variant, however, he still not know how Gyre skills work or are there special foods he needs to feed Gyre to maintain its health and uniqueness. He looks at his Diver¡¯s watch and saw that it is almost time for dinner, he was so focused on reading that he did not notice the time, so he decided to check out the book and meet up with El and Chad in the lobby of the library.
The three left the library smarter and was hungry from all the studying they did so they quickly went to the mess hall to eat dinner. After that, the three headed back to their room and Gyre was on his bed playing with a small web ball he made. Gyre immediately jump on Cliff when they entered the room, so Cliff immediately took out Gyre¡¯s food and gave it to him. Gyre then jump off him and started to eat happily on the desk.
Three took turns to take a bath and started to settle down to get ready to turn in. Cliff sat on his bed still reading the book he checked out but decided to turn in when he heard that Chad snoring.
¡°Tomorrow will be the start,¡± Cliff said as he dozes off to sleep.