《Dark Matter Ascension》 Chapter 1 – Jace Seren, Courier
The sliverscreen glimmered in Jace¡¯s palm as he tapped the panel to open the application from General Logistics. A priority message was listed in bold text. [Your payment is overdue! You have 8 hours to complete your payment before repossession agents are dispatched.] The situation was grim, and Jace looked down at his prosthetic legs with a sigh. They were expensive, but worth the cost. He would probably be paying them off the rest of his life to the megacorp. Thankfully, this gig would pay well. Slipping the sliverscreen back into his pocket, he pulled up his hood over his unkempt, black-as-mud hair. Jace vaulted the wall he was hiding behind and landed in a crouch, scanning the area for any sign of guards. He jogged to the docks before slowing down to blend in. A handful of workers were moving about, and he was just another shabby-looking porter for all they cared. He had been here plenty of times before and made a beeline for his pickup. The blue boat was bobbing slightly, tied off to the closest possible cleat. ¡°I¡¯m here for the package,¡± Jace announced. A pair of hulking men hopped over the edge of the boat. One of them had a briefcase handcuffed to his arm. Jace recognized the one without the briefcase and gave him a quick wave and a smile. ¡°Greg! I didn¡¯t know you were freelancing again.¡± Greg was a goliath of a man, standing at least a foot taller than Jace. He walked up to him and wrapped the smaller man in a bear hug, his ruddy, red beard scratching against Jace¡¯s face. ¡°Hey! It¡¯s been, what, a few months?¡± He let Jace down and the slimmer man was able to breathe once more. ¡°Last time I saw you, you were running awa- no, crawling away from some gurney in a crappy hospital. I see you got fancy new feet.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Yeah. They were expensive. She tried to pull some strings ¨C but I ignored her¡­Anyways, I wasn¡¯t expecting to see you anytime soon. How was visiting the family?¡± ¡°Good. We¡¯ll catch up later. You get a rough dropspot, my man, and the clock is ticking.¡± Greg walked to his companion, opened the briefcase, withdrew a thick, clear, plastic bag, and walked back to Jace. ¡°My contact told me you got climate control on that bag.¡± A shining, sparkling, silver liquid sloshed around in the confines of the container. Jace nodded and unzipped the messenger bag, ¡°Hot or cold?¡± ¡°As cold as you can get it,¡± Greg replied as he placed the item gingerly into the bag. ¡°Any handling instructions?¡± Jace asked as he closed the zipper, tapped the temperature control, snapped the lock shut, and readjusted the straps to keep it tight to his back. ¡°Keep it away from magnets. This lady gave a thirty-minute timer. Good luck. I¡¯ll buy you a beer when the job is done. We can catch up!¡± He tapped a button on his sliverscreen - a notification to whoever sent him that he had done his part of the delivery, and to start Jace¡¯s timer. Greg turned away with a slight wave as he and his companion clambered back onto the boat. Jace did not bother waving back. Damnit! You should¡¯ve told me that before we started talking! He turned heel and took off at a sprint. Thirty minutes to get across town was barely manageable, but he would have to sprint the full distance¡­and hope no obstacles got in the way. He racked his brain trying to think of every shortcut he could come up with. He had to cross the river, and while there were a few different ways to cross, the bridge was the most reliable and safest route. But not the most direct. If he did not make the dropspot on time, he wouldn¡¯t get paid. And if he was not paid, he could not pay off his debts on the new prosthetics. He would be no better than the rest of the bums lying on the street with no income, just waiting to die. He did not want his feet repo¡¯d. He instead cut for dangerous territory. Gang territory. The type of territory that street folk like him knew to sneak through and not run through - but he had no choice. Survival came first. And in this case, survival meant getting to the dropspot. This was his best chance at making the delivery deadline. Just survive, he thought as the words of his kid sister echoed through his head. The last words he heard from her. That was the only reason he was alive and had not succumbed in the dingy, charity hospital. Survive for her. No matter what. Survive. There was a wall in the way, and he slowed slightly as he prepared to jump. His metal feet whirred, amplifying the force of his footfalls. Runner¡¯s Replacement: some of the best prosthetics a person could buy. They replicated a human foot near-perfectly, but had a bit of tech inside that could provide a bit more force when running or jumping than a real foot could exert. He jumped up, planted his hands on the top of the wall, hoisted his lower half over, and landed on the ground in a roll. Glancing down the alley, he felt a rush of adrenaline at the impending danger coming his way. Just my luck. Five members of a local gang he had crossed paths with a few times were loitering around their hangout. There were hundreds of gangs all over the city. They took over a building and part of a street, claimed it as their territory, and would run their operation from that location. Small gangs, and they moved frequently. The corrupt and paid-off governments did not care about street-level crime, and the police were never able to track down their next den before they moved on. Gangs like these preyed on people like Jace. And all five spotted him thanks to the loud clang of his bare prostheses impacting the cracked asphalt. He was going for speed, not stealth, and his lack of caution cost him a smooth journey through territory he had traversed dozens of times before without issue. Their shouts overlapped as they began to rush towards him. Jace could hear doors slamming and knew that more were joining those five in the chase. Jace kept sprinting down a familiar alley, feeling his heart beat faster and faster. The exhilaration of a chase kicked in a moment later, as he heard more shouts from behind, and the revving of a motorcycle engine as the pursuit began in earnest. They had fortified their territory, and Jace had to navigate between haphazard traps that lay all around. From simple shattered glass that he easily avoided, to a Molotov-cocktail rigged with a tripwire which he had to leap over, and even somehow an ancient bear trap that he barely dodged at the last second; scarcely noticing it hidden under garbage. They¡¯ve learned, he thought, as these traps weren¡¯t here when he snuck through their territory a few days ago when they were first taking over the block.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Bang! He instinctively ducked as a bullet whizzed by him before impacting the concrete wall of the building to his left. Tiny chunks of the debris puffed out and provided a small smoke screen. Jace got as low as he could as he kept running, gunshots ringing out behind him as bullets continued to whiz by. Jace felt giddy as adrenaline pumped through his veins, the situation growing more dire with the threat of lethal force. The rhythmic tap, whoosh, tap, whoosh of his feet hitting the ground and lifting off as he continued his journey were a constant reminder of the accident a few months ago. The sound was almost unnerving - but he had begun to get used to it. The revving of the vehicle that was in pursuit pushed him on even faster, and he could feel the internal servos beginning to whine under the pressure of being overworked; a slow heat traveling up the grafted metal and reaching his flesh. Damn, I¡¯m pushing them too hard, he thought. They were great for sprints - not as good for endurance running. He coiled his legs once more and jumped over the small wall of stacked metal siding and wood scraps - the edge of the gang¡¯s territory. He was not able to clear it fully, but he was able to kick off the alley wall to get the height clearance he needed. He landed in a roll and emerged onto a street overlooking the river. A familiar place that he frequented often as a kid. Come on, there¡¯s always a few¡­ he scanned left and right, finally spotting what he was looking for. An old, rusted dinghy. The type that a street urchin like him used to sleep in. A boat that one could use to escape into the bay just to catch some crappy, polluted catfish to roast over a trash fire for dinner. The type that he would use to escape from other street kids who did not follow the code. And a fast way across the river to his drop off location. An enormous crash rang out behind him, and glancing back, he saw that the person riding the motorcycle had burst through the makeshift wall. ¡°Damnit!¡± Jace shouted as he kept running. I¡¯ll be a sitting duck if I am rowing out. That means I have to take the bridge. I¡¯m not going to make it in time! He pushed himself despite the likelihood of failing his delivery. There was no choice - he had to get there as fast as he could, even if it was past the deadline. He ran right past a bodega that had just opened and was blasting a radio broadcast. Some news channel. He barely registered the words as the rush of adrenaline-fueled pursuit dulled his hearing. ¡°...ten-billionth person born today in China.¡± That bit of the broadcast reached his ears. Jace froze. What the hell? He could not feel¡­anything. Not the acrid taste of smog in the air. Not the foul smell of rotten sewage pouring into the river. And most definitely and unsettling of all - not even his own heart that was quickly beating a few moments ago. He could still see. Hear stuff, too. And think, of course. The brackish river that had been slowly sloshing against the sides of the canal had stopped moving. The angler, pole mid-cast off one of the pylons that stood like a soldier at attention in the relatively clean center of the river, was also still. Everything was stopped as if someone had hit the pause button on reality itself. A voice echoed in his head, and a message appeared in the air in front of him, which should not have happened, as he had no ocular implants. The voice was that of a game show announcer. <<<<<>>>>> [Congratulations, Planet Earth of the Sol System in the Milky Way Galaxy!.] [Your world has reached the population threshold (relative to its size) to qualify for entry into The Cosmic System!.] [Cosmogenic Merging: Initiated.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace could still not feel - only see, hear, and think. And his mind raced with possibilities. Some type of experiment? He thought of the weird package in his bag. This fluid stuff? He had no clue what he was transporting most of the time. He could feel something physical - the world shaking under his feet. Not an earthquake, but more like a tremor. <<<<<>>>>> [Cosmogenic Merging: Completed!.] [Welcome to The Cosmic System!.] <<<<<>>>>> What the heck is Cosmogenic Merging? Jace thought. As if to answer his question, a flood of information crossed his vision, and a pleasant - if bored - female voice read it aloud to him. Her spoken words matched the ones filling his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Your world has now been incorporated into The Cosmic System. Portals to The Cosmic Corridor have appeared in your fifty largest population centers. You will now be given the choice of Civilian or Aspirant classification.] [The Civilian classification forces a maximum lifespan of 150 years while in The Eternal City before removing the individual back to their home world. Prevents willful injury in The Eternal City or The Cosmic Corridor. Choose this option if you want to continue living your usual life, with just a little bit of influence from other worlds. Relocating to The Eternal City is permissible. But you have to get to one of the fifty portals to do so. Keep in mind the time limit! If you stay longer than 1 day past 150 years of age ¨C you die.] [The Aspirant classification provides for a path to becoming an Ascendant. A being with the power of the cosmos at their command. Unrestricted travel to any world connected to The Cosmic Corridor. This carries the risk of injury or death. This leads to practical immortality and near-deific power. Approximately 0.05% of those who choose this classification survive.] [Frequently asked questions.] 1.) This is not a trick, magic spell, hack, or any other form of charade. Your world is going to be part of a larger, multi-world System. 2.) Time is passing differently for each person during the Cosmogenic Merging process, but, in effect, you will ¡®resume¡¯ your existence at the same time as everyone else. 3.) Those who are considered minors by Cosmic System standards will be relocated to The Eternal City to ensure a safe, education-oriented, and standardized upbringing. Parents and caregivers may visit any time. After they become adults, they will choose a classification. 4.) Aspirants will be transported away from their current location. Aspirants who are in a position responsible for the safety of others (pilots, drivers, doctors, etc.) will not be immediately transported. Once their assigned passengers, cargo, patients, etc. are safe, then they will be transported. [Make your choice.] The voice shifted in tone, and she went off-script. [And be quick about it! You are my last one for this shift!] Chapter 2 – Cosmogenic Merging
Jace¡¯s mind raced. No way. This isn¡¯t possible. You can¡¯t stop time entirely. He wished he could turn his head around to look at his pursuers, but he could not. He just knew that they were looking at his back, waiting for¡­whatever this was to end so they could kill him. He tried to move his mouth to ask something, but this¡­voice read his thoughts and answered aloud. The same bored, feminine voice. <<<<<>>>>> [Alright, let¡¯s get this over with. You get three questions. Make it fast. I want to clock out.] <<<<<>>>>> Well. Okay, then , Jace thought. I guess this Cosmic System can read my thoughts. First question: what exactly is an Ascendant? <<<<<>>>>> [My name is Shhiv-zal, not just ¡®System¡¯.] She sounded annoyed. [I¡¯m assigned to you now.] <<<<<>>>>> Sorry. Shhiv-zal. <<<<<>>>>> Her voice softened slightly, [Apology accepted. To answer your question, an Ascendant is a quasi-immortal being. Their power is vast and can affect entire worlds. A lot of them are arrogant pricks, but there are a few good ones. They can be killed, but they are tough. Their immortality is only against aging and age-related diseases. That is question one.] <<<<<>>>>> That made some sense to Jace. This System was describing gods. Well, near-deities, if they could still be killed, poisoned, or die in some other way. The implications of that on a philosophical level were beyond his comprehension, and he chose to ignore any more questions related to them. What exactly is The Cosmic Corridor? <<<<<>>>>> [A travel hub. Transit station. It connects all worlds that have gone through Cosmogenic Merging. You can also get to The Eternal City through it. I mean, the city is nice and all - way better than my home world. But sometimes life can get boring, you know?.] Her tone shifted again to one of interest and became slightly husky. [At least I get the attractive ones to watch on my shifts. I bet you would clean up nicely. That is question two, by the way.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace ignored the remark about his appearance. The thought of having a new chance at life, a whole new lease on life, away from this crappy existence at the bottom rungs of society was tempting. Extremely so. The implication of a city that never ended, and the fact that Civilians could relocate made the decision much more difficult. If he chose Civilian, he would have to get to one of these portals and get through it. Knowing that they would show up in the largest population centers, he did not doubt that the various governments and burgeoning mega corporations of the world would restrict access. And charge an exorbitant fee to travel through them. One he could not afford. And why would they even let anyone past the portal? Civilians only had the non-willful injury clause in The Cosmic Corridor and this Eternal City, if he understood the earlier message correctly. World governments would not want people getting to a place where they did not have control. Jace was stuck on Earth despite this reality-shifting opportunity. This isn¡¯t fair. <<<<<>>>>> [Yup. It sucks. Crappy situation all around in your case. If you do choose Civilian, well, I hope you can get to one of the portals fast. The closest one to you is¡­fifty miles. Yup, you are screwed. Corpo-Age civs are always abysmal; and post Cosmogenic Merging, your world will probably go down the dystopic route. Honestly? Go with Aspirant. You might die, but hey, you will at least get out of what looks like an unbelievably dire situation.] <<<<<>>>>> No shit. People chasing me, shooting at me. Against a deadline that I can¡¯t meet. Probably getting my feet repo¡¯d. This¡­sucks. Plus, the thought of having deific power was enticing. Not just for the sake of having power or using it as an escape from his current life of barely scraping by. I¡¯m definitely choosing Aspirant¡­but I have one more question, right? <<<<<>>>>> [Yes. And that does not count as your question. The Cosmic System knows that clarifying statements do not count against the question limit. But please hurry. I want to get home and watch Zzezox and Misthledorp.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace ignored his instinctual response of, ¡®what?¡¯ as he knew it would count as one of his questions. If becoming an Ascendant means that I can be, effectively, a god¡­could I bring back someone who died?If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. <<<<<>>>>> [A powerful Ascendant may have the capability to bring the dead back to life. All right. You are out of questions. Time to choose.] <<<<<>>>>> I choose Aspirant¡­Thank you, Shhiv-zal. <<<<<>>>>> [Best of luck, I hope you survive your Aspirant Trial. I will be keeping an eye on you.] She giggled. [If you survive, I will take you out on the town. My treat.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace¡¯s vision went black, and he felt his body once more. His heart was racing, he could hear the loud whoosh of air passing by him as he fell through what seemed to be an endless sea of starlight. He could move his limbs as all the sensations of his body returned to him. The feeling of free-falling through inky black skies dotted with stars and swirling with streaks of light filled him with a giddy sensation and he laughed. Not just laughter at the thrill of falling, but at the realization that he could bring his sister back. The memories of her smile at her seventh birthday - her last one - flashed through his mind. He had scraped together enough money to buy her a small cake. He even had enough left over to take her to the park, and for the third time in her life, she got to play on swings and slides. An hour of childhood bliss. The memory of her excitement and elation always warmed his heart. In this instant, it filled him with a desire to get whatever this Aspiration Trial was over with so he could follow this progression to Ascendant and bring her back. The emotional rush he felt was almost unbearable. Come on! Let¡¯s get this started already! The wind cascading by him stilled and Jace felt himself slow to a stop before the black, inky space receded from around him. He was standing in an enormous conference room. Tables and chairs were set up all around. The space could accommodate thousands of people. Other people popped into existence ¨C just appearing ¨C all around him. Some screamed in panic, some shouted, others were quiet and observing what was going on. Jace fell into the latter group, finding the nearest wall and putting his back to it. A young woman - around Jace¡¯s age - with neon pink hair and a street-rocker style soon joined him against the wall. She glanced sideways at him and nodded. She made a sign of her index finger touching her ring finger, with the middle finger extended, the other fingers folded into the palm. ¡°Courier,¡± he replied. He repeated the finger gesture. ¡°Independent Webwalker.¡± She held up two fingers ¨C index and middle ¨C and put them in front of her mouth. ¡°Jace Seren,¡± he replied. ¡°Quinn Cipher.¡± Jace held out his hand and she gripped his index, middle, and ring fingers with her own. ¡°Where you from?¡± he asked. She brushed her hair out of her face. She was cute, but her demeanor left no doubt in Jace¡¯s mind that she used that appearance to manipulate others. ¡°Sydney. You?¡± ¡°New Jersey.¡± The code of the street kid completed, Jace felt himself relax as Quinn giggled slightly, ¡°This is going to be interesting. Cosmic power? A trial? Exciting stuff.¡± ¡°It¡¯s¡­this whole thing is just crazy,¡± Jace replied with a grin. He focused as movement in her eyes caught his attention as if they were focusing in like camera lenses. Holy crap. She¡¯s got head-cybernetics! They were extremely expensive and hard to get. ¡°Where¡¯d you get those?¡± She grinned, ¡°I was able to hack into a government database. I ransomed the data for these, and some brain implants. Getting those installed took a while, though.¡± She glanced down at his ankles, ¡°No shoes?¡± Jace pulled his pant leg up, ¡°They¡¯re on a payment plan.¡± Quinn whistled as her eyes whirred in their sockets, ¡°Those must have cost you a lot.¡± Jace let his pant leg go, ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m basically spending every cred on keeping them paid up. But it was that or be in the gutter.¡± ¡°I feel that,¡± she replied. ¡°¡®Doing whatever we have to do to survive.¡¯¡± She looked at him, ¡°You have the same phrase in your part of the world?¡± ¡°Close,¡± Jace said with a smile. ¡°Ours is ¡®Stick together to survive¡¯.¡± ¡°Why did you choose Aspirant?¡± she asked. ¡°My sister,¡± Jace replied. ¡°Did you get three questions?¡± Quinn asked. Jace nodded and she continued, ¡°My questions were about this Aspirant Trial. We get dropped off in a hostile environment and gotta survive a week. Then, we get Cosmic Power and a Class. After that, we can kill stuff or do Quests to get a type of cred called Stardust. We can use that to buy stuff, or level up.¡± Jace nodded before responding, ¡°The Cosmic Corridor gets us to and from worlds, Ascendants are like gods, and my last question was if an Ascendant could bring back the dead. Turns out¡­they can.¡± ¡°That¡¯s awesome,¡± she replied with a soft, sincere smile. ¡°If this Aspirant thing can get her back¡­I have to try.¡± ¡°Good on you. Well, slater.¡± She turned away and began chatting with someone else who had joined them against the wall. Jace smiled and nodded at her despite not knowing what ¡®slater¡¯ meant. Must be some local Australian slang. A message played across his vision, and he heard a voice in his head. The same announcer-style voice from before. <<<<<>>>>> [Your Wayfinders have been assigned! They will introduce themselves as you travel to your Aspirant Trial!.] [Please note: Aspirant Trials are dangerous. Working with others is allowed, as is harming others.] [Good luck!.] Chapter 3 – Oliver, Wayfinder
Jace saw the world turn black around him once more. He was floating on an enormous ocean of sparkling white and yellow shimmers. The undulating waves under him buoyed him on the surface and the stark, black sky above was a swirl with thousands of galaxies and stars. The closest experience to this was mindscapes showing distant galaxies that telescopes in orbit were able to see. But even those could not compare to the gorgeous display in front of him. Space had always fascinated Jace, and he would often look up at the skies with his sister and imagine a life in one of the floating habitations up in orbit. Where the richest of the rich lived. Just him and Chroma, among the stars. He was transfixed and couldn''t tell how much time passed. The liquid under him shifted and he felt himself sink below the surface, surrounded by the shimmering light and feeling a sensation as if he were sinking into a warm pool. Able to breathe despite the feeling of being surrounded by liquid. A new voice echoed in his head as messages appeared in his vision. A mechanical, very artificial voice. <<<<<>>>>> [Registering Aspirant data.] [Jace Seren, born on August 3rd, 2042. Age, 23. Black hair. Brown eyes. 5¡¯9¡¯¡¯. 145 lbs. Thin, wiry, athletic build. Technological implant in limbs from the tibia down on both legs.] [Odds of survival estimated at 0.03%.] [Your assigned Wayfarer will arrive in 3.] [2.] [1.] <<<<<>>>>> There was a loud pop noise next to Jace and he looked over. A sleek, long, furred creature with a squished face and whiskers swam through the liquid starlight next to him. Nebula streaked behind it in a cascade of pinks and powder blue. The animal¡¯s eyes were like two small planets: dark blue orbs with silvery rings around the outside edge. ¡°Well, you are my new Aspirant.¡± The voice was masculine and surprisingly deep for the small size of the creature, and sounded disappointed. ¡°I¡¯m Jace.¡± ¡°I know.¡± The creature swam around Jace, and its sinuous body curled around him. ¡°Well, any questions?¡± ¡°Lots,¡± Jace replied. ¡°What¡¯s your name, and what are you?¡± The creature sighed, ¡°Why do I get the dumb ones?¡± ¡°Hey, come on,¡± Jace replied. ¡°I¡¯m not dumb. Just not book smart.¡± ¡°I am Oliver. My friends call me Ollie. But let us make it clear, you are not my friend. I am your Wayfinder and nothing more.¡± ¡°Are you a weasel?¡± Oliver¡¯s eye twitched. ¡°A weasel?! How dumb are you?¡± He sounded quite upset. ¡°I had three years of school, all right? I didn¡¯t study animals.¡± Oliver huffed and swam in front of Jace, floating in front of his eyes. ¡°I am a river otter.¡± ¡°What¡¯s an otter?¡± Oliver pinched the bridge of his small snout with his cute, tiny paws. ¡°Carnivorous mammal. This form is the closest thing to what your culture would call a ¡®spirit animal¡¯.¡± He looked up at Jace and frowned, his whiskers forming a small arch. ¡°Wayfinders take the form of an animal or other creature most aligned with their Aspirant. Do you swim a lot?¡± Jace nodded, recalling several times when he would be swimming in the polluted waters of the rivers, looking for hidden treasures that had been discarded. Salvageable stuff. Occasionally, he would find a corpo¡¯s body and could rip out their implants to sell to a chop-doc. ¡°Yeah, I swam a lot. It was one of my favor-¡± ¡°There, that explains it. You like water, river otters live in water. There you go.¡± Jace kept silent for a moment. People like me don¡¯t get this chance. I have to know if other people got this same chance. ¡°Did everyone on Earth get the same choice I did?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Well, that explains it. I¡¯m not special. He cracked a wry smile and chuckled, of course. Street people like me never get a break. Not even when a System takes over. Whatever that means. He pushed aside the knowledge that he was still just another lowly cog in a larger machine of reality and cleared his throat. ¡°What is a Wayfinder?¡± Jace asked. Oliver kept his frown and bobbed in front of Jace, ¡°A companion. The Cosmic System assigns us to Aspirants to function as an interface between it and you. Only you and other Aspirants can see me, and I am intangible. If you go back to Earth and start talking to me, people will think you are crazy.¡± He chuckled slightly at his joke before the stern, disappointed demeanor reasserted itself. ¡°I will also hold any Stardust you collect.¡± ¡°What is Stardust?¡± ¡°You, me¡­everything.¡± Oliver gestured to the starry seas around them, his voice filling with a sense of wonder as the tone lightened. ¡°Stardust makes up all matter. Aspirants can turn living things into Stardust and use it as currency in The Eternal City. Or they can accumulate it and then consume it to level up.¡± Makes sense, Jace thought. Everything in the universe that we can see is matter, I know that much from the bit of schooling I got. It makes sense that it all breaks down into the same substance. ¡°What¡¯s the Aspirant Trial going to make me do?¡±The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Oliver¡¯s voice returned to a disappointed tone. ¡°When I give the go-ahead, you will be transported to a hazardous world and must survive for a week while there. Seven days.¡± That surprised Jace. ¡°I¡¯d imagine a multi-world, universe-spanning system would not use Earth¡¯s way of keeping time.¡± Oliver waved his paw dismissively, ¡°I am translating from The Cosmic System time to what you are familiar with. The Cosmic System knows how to adjust times accordingly for all Aspirants. The same for seasons, months, etcetera.¡± ¡°Do I get any survival gear?¡± ¡°Just what you have with you. Here, I will pull up your full information sheet.¡± A screen appeared in front of Jace. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 0) Power [Class level.]: N/A Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation. Stardust: 0 Equipment: Messenger Bag (unidentified ferrofluid), street clothes, sliverscreen, protein bar (x3), belt knife, Runner¡¯s Replacement. Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Oliver tutted and shook his head, ¡°Not a good set of starting equipment. The good news is once you survive twenty-four hours, you might get a Quest. If you accomplish that Quest, then you get a Boon - think of it like a redeemable reward.¡± He frowned, ¡°And no need for that sliverscreen anymore. Such rudimentary information and networking technology.¡± Jace took a deep breath. ¡°You said a hazardous world. Will I be able to survive there?¡± ¡°Yup! You have two Skills as an Aspirant. Universal Translation means you can understand all languages whether spoken or written. Ancient, forgotten ones? Not so much. Environmental Adaptation means that you can survive on any world connected to The Cosmic Corridor. Only alterations that a native inhabitant has. So, if you chose an ocean world and the species living there could live underwater, you would be able to as well. You cannot survive an irradiated wasteland of nuclear fallout unless that was ¡®the usual¡¯ for existing inhabitants. The same goes for the magical equivalent of nukes.¡± ¡°Wait-magic?¡± Jace clarified. ¡°Yup! What? Did you think that worlds only advanced upon your world¡¯s understanding of reality?¡± Oliver waved his little paw dismissively, ¡°That is arrogant to assume. Magic exists. Spells, arcane symbols, the whole lot.¡± Jace pushed aside the reality-shattering knowledge that magic existed, focusing on the present instead. ¡°If this place with the Trial is connected to The Cosmic Corridor, couldn¡¯t I just find the portal and head to The Eternal City to wait out the seven days?¡± Oliver nodded and crossed his little arms as his tail wagged behind him, ¡°Yup! Absolutely. That is generally the smart play. Most Aspirants do that.¡± His tone brightened ever so slightly. Jace peered at the screen and pointed at the spot next to his name, ¡°What are these Tiers?¡± Oliver swam behind him and pointed his little paw past Jace¡¯s head. Another screen appeared with a series of level ranges. ¡°Tiers are how The Cosmic System judges overall power effectively, every twenty-five levels you acquire earns you one Tier. Once you hit level twenty-five in your Class, you then may choose an Ascended Power and Advanced Class. Once you hit level twenty-five in that , then you may take on the Ascension Trial and become a fully-fledged Ascendant.¡± Which means that the weakest Ascendant would be Tier 2 overall. ¡°Can you go past level twenty-five?¡± he asked, glancing to his side at his Wayfinder. ¡°Yup! Though it is rarely done. Most Aspirants want to get immortality as soon as possible. The max for a Class or Advanced Class is level 100.¡± ¡°Is there a lock on progression? I¡¯d imagine rushing to immortality would have some type of downside.¡± ¡°Yup! When an Aspirant chooses their Advanced Class, all progression for their initial Class is locked. Same for when you become an Ascendant - Advanced Class progression is locked.¡± ¡°How strong would I have to be to bring back someone that died? Before the Cosmogenic Merging happened.¡± ¡°Hmm,¡± Oliver had an inquisitive look on his face as his cheeks scrunched up forcing his whiskers to expand outward. Jace chuckled slightly at the puffed-up expression. Oliver blinked a few times, his face went slack, and his eyes went dark, pure black. ¡°Accessing System: stand by.¡± His voice was not filled with gruff disappointment but instead was mechanical and robotic. He shook his head a few seconds later as his eyes returned to normal. ¡°Tier 10 at a minimum for pre-Cosmogenic Merging deaths. But there is a time limit of ten years on that. You cannot bring back people who have been gone for too long.¡± ¡°But you can¡¯t get Tier 10 if you get your last Tier at level 75.¡± ¡°Once you ¡®cap out¡¯ at level 100, you are given a Tier for mastering your Class. Think of it like the cherry on top of a cake.¡± There¡¯s a lot to unpack here, Jace thought. It might be a lot all at once¡­but it¡¯s good to know how I¡¯m going to get her back. ¡°Do Tiers have a purpose other than judging an overall power level?¡± ¡°Yup! An Aspirant who is Tier 1 will have reduced efficacy against any other Aspirant or challenge rated at a higher Tier.¡± Oliver chuckled a little, ¡°Earth is a Tier 2 world. So, if you were Tier 3, you could return home and bullets would really, really hurt; but not kill you.¡± He put his paw to his chin and scratched it, ¡°Unless it was a lot of bullets. Same thing if you tried to attack a Tier 2 and you are only Tier 1 ¨C you would find it a lot harder to hurt them.¡± ¡°Good to know.¡± Jace took a deep breath and calmed his beating heart by focusing on the flow of air. In through the nose, out through the mouth. This is it. Once I give the go-ahead¡­this Trial starts. Memories of his sister washed over him. Her smile when he picked her up from the hangout that functioned as a small, community school. The time they spent walking through the city streets, staring up at the high-rise buildings. The empty promises he made her to take them both to the top of society. I¡¯ll get to Tier 10. I¡¯ll become the strongest Ascendant to bring her back. Then¡­we¡¯ll live at the top. ¡°I¡¯m ready.¡± He looked straight at Oliver¡¯s eyes, feeling the silent judgment of the Wayfinder seemingly searching his soul. I survived the streets. I can survive this. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Oliver swam in the starlight around Jace, swirling up the motes of cosmic energy in his wake. A blossoming cascade of every color imaginable. The spectral river otter swam faster and faster until Jace was in a cocoon awash with vibrant colors. ¡°Here we go!¡± he shouted enthusiastically. ¡°Do not die on me. The last four-hundred Aspirants I have been assigned to died within the first few hours.¡± Wait, a few hours? Jace felt a pit form in his stomach despite filling it earlier. Is this place really that dangerous? He gripped his belt knife and drew it, holding it in front of him at the ready. ¡°Where am I going?¡± ¡°A Tier 1 world. A place called Velenar Prime.¡± His face shifted into one of concern, ¡°That¡¯s¡­that¡¯s at the upper end of the Tier 1 difficulty scale.¡± He growled and shouted in anger, ¡°Damnit! We spent too long talking, and now we get the crappiest starting position!¡± The colors stopped swirling, everything went black, and Jace felt a sensation of being sucked down a drain. Chapter 4 – The Aspirant Trial
Jace saw colors flash in front of him - red, blue, and finally a soft purple as he landed on his butt. ¡°Ouch!¡± he yelped in pain from his now-bruised tailbone. It was not a soft landing and compared to the warm starlight he had been drifting in, the wind that caressed his skin was chilling and ominous. Looking around he saw a stark, blasted landscape. Black cliffs of stone arced up in either direction, and a small passage led forward. Glancing back, he saw the same terrain behind. I¡¯m in a canyon, he thought. Oliver manifested next to him with a pop. ¡°Well, crap. This is a bad starting position.¡± He was still a river otter, floating in space; but he appeared to be made of shimmering starlight. Translucent. And he emitted light. ¡°Where are we?¡± Jace asked as he stood up. Oliver closed his eyes and a moment later a map appeared floating in front of the two. It zoomed out until they could see an orbital view, represented in a phantasmal, blue color. There was a blinking, purple dot. ¡°The purple dot is us.¡± Oliver spun his paws, and the planetary map swirled in place until they were looking at the opposite side of the world. There was a bright, blue dot. ¡°And that¡¯s the portal to The Cosmic Corridor.¡± ¡°How far is it?¡± ¡°About 1,250 miles. At an average travel rate of 20 miles per day, you will make it there in 75 days.¡± Jace gripped the bars of protein - ground-up bugs with a little bit of flavoring - and felt a rush of fear through his spine. With one bite every few hours I could maybe have enough calories to last me six days at the most. If I have to run from something then I¡¯ll need to eat them faster. He took a deep breath and did just as his mentor taught him. In through the nose, out through the mouth. You¡¯ve found food and water in worse places than this. He looked up at the skies above. They were a light, soft purple. He could not see the sun from his current vantage point in the canyon. ¡°Which way would be the fastest to get to this Portal?¡± Oliver floated in front of him and pointed, ¡°That way.¡± Jace cinched his messenger bag tight to his body and began trudging forward. Despite the prosthetic feet he could feel the coarse, crusty gravel below that his soles gently sank into before finding firm ground. The walls around him closed in tighter and tighter, and he had to turn sideways and hold his bag over his head to squeeze through at the narrowest point. The black stone was coarse like pumice and scratched at his arms. He could feel parts of his clothing catch and slightly rip. ¡°What¡¯s the temperature going to be like?¡± he asked as cool wind blew through the crag and made him shiver. Oliver¡¯s eyes went black for a moment before they returned to normal and he replied, ¡°It will be around fifty degrees Farenheit. It is the end of summer. Winter is coming. It will last for seventy days.¡± Great. Just my luck. Wrong side of the freakin¡¯ world, it¡¯s going to get cold, and I have no gear for surviving outdoors. He felt a long tear open along the back of his clothes as the rough rock scraped against his skin. ¡°Just terrific!¡± he shouted in frustration as the situation he found himself in truly sank in. A noise responded. A deep, sonorous, grinding growl that echoed down the canyon. ¡°What did you do that for?¡± Oliver asked harshly. Jace lowered his voice to a whisper, ¡°It was a reaction, okay?¡± He heard roaring once more, and even though the canyon caused the noise to echo, he knew it was behind him somewhere. Crap crap crap! He kept wiggling his way through the crevice until he emerged from it. A vast landscape spread out before him. A field of bright purple, yellow, and blue flowers interspersed throughout dark, grey grasses that swished in the breeze. The horizon off in the distance just caressed a setting trio of suns - one green, one white, and one deep orange. The light, purple skies above began to darken as the suns continued to set, and a set of roiling, black storm clouds began to move directly overhead. It was gorgeous. Unlike anything Jace had ever seen. There was more plant life than he could imagine. Something out of the stories that the older street crowd used to muse about before the open spaces were all paved over for factories and housing. He took in a deep breath of the air and could smell something he had only experienced once before. Clean, outdoor, fresh air. No smog cloying his lungs, no toxic smoke from the factories that bellowed out the nasty clouds that would hug the ground. It was refreshing and for a moment he forgot about his dire situation. He was quickly reminded of that, however. The growl behind him brought him out of his reverie and he turned. ¡°What is it?¡± he whispered. ¡°How am I supposed to know?¡± Oliver replied with a huff. ¡°You¡¯re the Wayfinder. Interface with the System or something!¡± ¡°I am not clairvoyant. Once I see it, I can look up information about it.¡± It kept getting closer. Jace turned to the field and did one thing he excelled at. He ran. He ran as fast as his servo-assisted feet could carry him. The rocks he was treading on gave way to soft sod and soil as he sprinted through the flowers. If he were not running from some creature that was hunting him, he would revel in the feeling of actual dirt under his feet. ¡°Oh crap,¡± Oliver muttered as he floated alongside Jace. ¡°This dirt is going to make you slower.¡± ¡°What?!¡± Jace shouted as he kept putting one foot in front of the other. ¡°How?¡± ¡°It is a type of infused soil. Exceptionally fine, sand-like granules. It will gum up the servos and compressors. It holds moisture easily and will crust onto surfaces.¡± Crap! That¡¯ll make me way slower. He spared a glance back and felt terror grip his heart as his blood ran cold. Jace knew in that instant what it felt like to be prey as the multiple, black eyes stared him down.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. The creature fully emerged from the crevice. A sinuous, lanky, six-legged wolf-like creature. Its face and snout split down the middle, and he could see the two eyes on either side of the skull. The roar it let out as the snout ripped open to reveal a gaping tunnel of a mouth lined with razor-sharp teeth reminded Jace of a roll of razor wire. Its surface was covered with chitinous, black plates that refracted the fading bit of light. Jace turned away. Focus on outrunning it. Finding someplace it can¡¯t get. Can it climb? Damnit! I don¡¯t know! ¡°Oh, that¡¯s what it is,¡± Oliver muttered as he floated backward while Jace continued to run. ¡°It is a Vyrknadine. A very vicious predator. This one is at the very top of Rank 1.¡± He looked over at Jace with a grimace on his fate, ¡°I¡¯m not expecting you to survive. Guess it is back to storage for me.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not helping!¡± Jace shouted as he kept sprinting. His steps became heavier as the servos seized up, and he had to exert more force with each footstep. Sparing a glance back, he could not see the creature. The only indication of any motion was the softly swaying grassland as the chill wind kept blowing. ¡°Where did it go?¡± ¡°They are ambush predators. It is stalking you in the grass.¡± Oliver floated in front of Jace, on his stomach with his head held up by his little paws. ¡°You are in some trouble here. Wish I could help.¡± Jace felt himself slow even more as his feet stopped their automated function. Now, they were just clunky, metal appendages that weighed him down. ¡°Tell me how to beat it!¡± Oliver sighed, ¡°I mean, I doubt you can. But the ones that were killed were defeated by stabbing about six inches into the underside of it. Into the heart.¡± ¡°How does it track?¡± ¡°Scent and sight.¡± Scent and sight. Okay. I can counter those. Jace skidded to a stop and threw his bag to the side. He quickly stripped down to his naked body and rolled back and forth in the sod and dirt. The soil was still damp and mixed with the sweat pouring from him he was able to efficiently cover himself with plenty of dirt. Plus, because of the inert grey-goo infusing the soil, it crusted onto his body like a second layer of skin. My knife isn¡¯t long enough to reach six inches, he thought. I¡¯ll have to improvise on the fly once I see it up close. He knew that the dirt would mask his scent, the clothes would distract the monster, and he could stay low to keep out of sight. Use the environment to your advantage. Growing up on the streets, Jace knew how to blend into his surroundings. Getting dirty was not a problem for him. Looking filthy and disgusting was a skill every street kid honed; great for avoiding the attention of gangs and cops trying to meet their quota. And he knew how to hide. The second-best skill a street kid could develop. One more thing. He scrabbled over to his pants and pulled out one of the protein bars. He unwrapped it and threw it a short distance away before ducking down and hugging the dirt, knife in hand. He focused on steadying his breathing and closed his eyes - zeroing in wholly on his sense of hearing. Something unique that he picked up from his mentor. The man taught him how to focus on one sense in a specific moment. Sight for keeping an eye out for good marks. Touch to be able to find traps and gaps in buildings. Taste to determine if something was safe to eat. Smell to identify toxins in the air. Hearing to keep alert while sleeping. A skill that he had to learn. Years of practical use were continuing to pay off at this critical moment. Jace could make out the soft, swoosh of the swaying grasses. The slight crackle of distant thunder. And the faint growling breath of this Vyrknadine. An apex predator. He had never heard anything like it; the closest he could compare it to was the roar of a souped-up street car¡¯s engine. But it carried an anger. A lethal intent that sent shivers down his body. ¡°It¡¯s right behind you,¡± Oliver said as he floated above. ¡°Do not move. It cannot hear or see me, so I¡¯ll update you on its position.¡± Wasn¡¯t planning on moving, Jace thought as he unfocused his senses and saw the grasses next to him parting and bending. The creature had no scent, and now that he was up close, he could see that the chitinous plates had plenty of gaps that he could sink a blade into. It went over to his clothes and began pawing at the garments before moving on to the protein bar. After sniffing it, it gobbled the substance up. I could wait, Jace thought. I could just hide and wait for it to move on. That was the smart thing to do. Wait for it to move on. Not risk his neck fighting something he was in no way prepared to fight. ¡°Oh, would you look at that,¡± Oliver muttered in surprise. ¡°The Cosmic System already has a Quest for you. Normally those are restricted until a day has passed. Ah, Shhiv-zal put in a bypass request for you. You should thank her when you get to The Eternal City. Here, I will show you the quest.¡± The System message box appeared, but thankfully it filled only the bottom-right corner of Jace¡¯s vision instead of flooding his whole vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Defeat the Vyrknadine.] [Time Limit: 10 minutes.] [Reward: Epic (Hidden Location) Boon.] <<<<<>>>>> Oliver chuckled, ¡°Wow. That is neat. You must have made a great impression on her. Maybe because of your motive for choosing Aspirant? Low-level System operators like her do not normally put in these types of bypass requests. You should definitely visit her when we get to Khrox. Her personnel file says her favorite snack food is ghantos-pepper wings.¡± Jace wanted to ask how the hell he made an impression by asking questions, receiving answers, and just being polite. But he knew that being quiet was essential to living at that moment. I can figure out later why she''s taken an interest. Jace felt the fear slowly melting away, replaced by an excitement that he might survive this whole encounter. Hidden Location? A place to hole up? Supplies and maybe even weapons? He had not seen a source of water when he first walked out here, and he had no clue about what would be safe to eat or not. Hell, it was a completely different world. The risk is worth the reward. He flexed and unflexed his muscles, slowly warming them up as the creature continued to pad around and nose through the clothing before it arrived at his satchel. It stood there, pawing at the bag. This is it! Jace slowly pushed himself up off the ground and into a crouch, following the trail of trodden dirt the creature had made in its travel through the grass. He got right behind the predator that was easily twice his length - and it had not noticed him. Palming the knife, he took a fast, quiet breath as he jumped onto its back. Chapter 5 – It costs an arm and a leg
The Vyrknadine bucked up and almost tossed Jace off. He wrapped his legs around the monstrosity like a vice and hung on for dear life as it bucked and tried to coil back in on itself to bite him. Flattening himself against it, he felt around with his fingertips until they latched into small grooves between the chitinous plates. But he was right on its midsection. It began yelping in an unsettling, grinding growl. Oliver shouted as he flew above the fray, ¡°Don¡¯t let it buck you!¡± Jace could only grunt in reply as he was shaken every which way. The creature twisted in circles trying to get within bite range and Jace dug his heels in as best he could. Just as he had expected, the chitinous shell prevented some movement - and he was right on top of the largest one. If he moved, he would die. I just have to outlast it. Get it to tire itself out. He could feel the strain on his thighs and knew he could not keep up his grip for long. It¡¯ll probably outlast me. Think, Jace. How do you get to the head without getting bit? He tried to steady his breathing and looked for any discernible pattern to the jostling movements. Left, right, forward, spin clockwise, yelp. A pattern began to emerge. A repetitive movement that creatures at the top of the food chain would never change, because why would they? The same as the corpos that Jace knew to avoid because they would always walk the same. I just have to time it right. Just like a pickpocket. When the creature howled, its sides contracted slightly. That gave Jace a moment to shimmy up its body and re-tighten his legs around its midsection. Then, on the clockwise spin, he moved his right hand up to another one of the segmented, chitinous plates. When it moved left, he would move his left hand up, still palming the knife to use once he got to a weak spot. But, despite getting closer and closer to the creature¡¯s head where he was sure he could deal some damage, he felt fatigue and muscle cramps set in. His thighs were quivering from the constant pressure they were applying, and this creature continued its thrashing with boundless energy. Just go for it! Jace thought as he felt the creature inhale for another yelp. He yanked himself forward and stabbed the blade down into the side of the creature¡¯s neck. Must¡¯ve severed the windpipe, he thought as the expected yelping howl did not emerge from the creature¡¯s throat. Only the hiss of air escaped through the bloody gap he had carved. Viscous, green ichor spurted out. But the knife was stuck, and even as he tried to pull it free, the tight muscle kept it pinched in place. ¡°Good hit!¡± Oliver encouraged. ¡°Keep it up!¡± Jace¡¯s thighs gave out and he went flying off the creature, feeling himself tumble head over heels before he rolled to a painful stop. The blade was wrenched from his grip and he was defenseless with the wind knocked out of him. Pushing himself up to his elbows, he saw the creature begin to turn. Despite the injury he dealt it, the knife was keeping the creature from suffocating as the metal was squeezed in between folds of flesh. Damn it! He scrambled over to the courier satchel and began to open it as the creature charged at him. Time seemed to slow as his palm biomarker activated the lock, and he withdrew the fluid-filled bag that sparkled with metallic flecks. Looking up with it in his hands, he saw the maw opening. The tunnel of razor-sharp teeth descended toward him. Instinctively, he kicked up at it with his left foot. It dragged him in the dirt as the teeth crushed and ripped the metal apart. The creature jerked left and right, and Jace felt the prosthetic give way as he was left with a ripped, metal stub. The monstrosity tried to swallow the prosthetic, but the limb got stuck in its throat. The creature began to hack and wretch, trying to dislodge the metal. The foot refused to be blended by the teeth deeper in the throat, and it did not have the bite-force of the jaws to grind it down. Jace flipped over on his stomach and was able to reach up and pull his knife free. Air hissed out of the Vyrknadine¡¯s neck as blood bubbled out with its breath. The creature flailed left and right, trying to dislodge the limb. ¡°Choke on it!¡± Jace shouted as he let out a laugh of triumph. ¡°Choke on my foot and die!¡± His elation turned to horror as the creature was able to rid its throat of the offending appendage. It turned to him with a snarl; the slit where he had carved healed over. It can regenerate? The creature growled and pounced. As the maw opened and descended upon Jace, he shoved the bag of the mysterious ferrofluid into its maw. The teeth destroyed the thin, plastic bag and the thick, metallic goop spread all over the inside of its mouth. The teeth chomped. Jace screamed as the creature ripped his right arm away, the limb removed elbow-down. He writhed in agony, not even noticing the now-convulsing monstrosity. He dropped his knife and cradled his maimed arm. I gotta tourniquet it, he thought as the pain was lost in the onset of shock and his survival instincts kicked in. Get away from the threat. Patch up. Survive for her. Ignoring the flailing predator, Jace crawled back to his clothes, pushing himself through the dirt and grass with his good foot. He made sure to keep on his back to prevent the limb from touching the dirt and possibly getting infected. Reaching his pants he used his teeth and his good hand to tie off the leg of the clothes onto the stump. He tried to avoid looking at it, not wanting to trigger a panic response and be frozen in shock entirely. ¡°Holy crap,¡± Oliver muttered in shock. ¡°You did it! I cannot believe it!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Defeat the Vryknadine.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Hidden Location) Boon.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace leaned back and let out an exhausted laugh. Oliver flew over him and looked down from above with a bemused and astonished expression. ¡°I can¡¯t believe it. I must be dreaming.¡± ¡°I¡­wha?¡± Jace muttered in response as he felt dizziness overtake him. He leaned over and retched as the pain began to spread from his severed limb. He slumped into the recovery position on his side, instinctively pulling his knee up to keep himself from falling on his face and suffocating on his own sick. Oliver no longer had any sound of disappointment in his voice. Instead, the deep voice was filled with astonishment and wonder. ¡°You should look at what you did.¡± ¡°Mmm,¡± he felt like he was in a fog. ¡°Too dizzy¡­¡± The pain surged through his arm and pierced the foggy haze. ¡°Take a few minutes, I¡¯ll keep watch.¡± Oliver floated up into the sky and out of Jace¡¯s vision. Jace took shaking breaths as he looked at the severed appendage. The metallic fluid had hardened, and he untied the tourniquet with his teeth. I survived, he thought. This Boon better be worth it. Lost an arm and a foot. He knew that if he gave in to despair at this moment, he would be vulnerable. Survive. The vertigo slowly faded, and he used his good arm to push himself up. The creature was lying still, and he dragged himself over to it, inspecting the corpse. Oliver floated above him, descending to hover above the creature. Its face was towards him, and Jace could see the metal that had coated the inside of its mouth before hardening. ¡°I got you,¡± Jace whispered with satisfaction at slaying the creature. Something he had never encountered; an actual, wild predator¡­and he came out on top. He had killed before, but nothing like this. A primal force of nature was far different from anything he had encountered. ¡°You should get dressed,¡± Oliver said. ¡°I need to rest a bit longer. How do I use this Boon?¡± ¡°Just ask me to use it for you.¡± Jace weakly nodded, ¡°I hope it''s close.¡±Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Hidden Location).] [Uploading information to Wayfinder.] <<<<<>>>>> Oliver smirked as a map appeared floating above Jace. ¡°It¡¯s only a mile away,¡± the otter commented. Jace nodded, ¡°If I can rig my foot onto my stump, I can make it.¡± ¡°We cannot harvest this thing. Not in your current state. Want me to break it into Stardust? You cannot use it now, but we can start saving up.¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Oliver floated down and waved his paws over the Vyrknadine. It glowed with a bright, powder blue light that was coated in sparkles like glitter. In an instant, it vanished turning into a silvery-grey powder that flew into Oliver¡¯s paw before vanishing. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 500.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace knew he was still in shock from losing his arm, and that he would have to reconcile with the loss soon enough. But survival was more important, and he needed to keep himself distracted. ¡°Is that a lot?¡± Jace asked weakly as he began to look around for his spit-up foot. ¡°It¡¯s enough to go up a level, from 1 through 25.¡± Oliver flew up higher before floating back down and pointing to Jace¡¯s side. ¡°Your foot is over there.¡± Jace nodded and dragged himself across the small battlefield, gathering his now-empty satchel, his prosthetic foot, and the rest of his strewn-about clothes. He was exhausted, but he dressed himself and was able to use a slashed-off bit of fabric from his pants to tie the chewed-off foot onto his stump. He would have to move slowly, but he could walk if he shuffled that foot forward. ¡°Which direction?¡± he asked. Oliver floated in front of him and pointed, ¡°This way.¡± Jace began a hobbled-walk after the floating Wayfinder who kept talking. ¡°I have never seen an Aspirant defeat a top-Tier creature. That is one for the history books. You will be the talk of all the Wayfinders!¡± He let out a hearty laugh as he twirled in the air. ¡°I finally got a winner! Well, if you survive long enough. Let us hope this Hidden Location has what you need to survive. Holing up for the full seven days would be the smart play.¡± Keep the conversation going. Just ignore it for now. Jace weakly replied, ¡°Do you talk to other Wayfinders often?¡± ¡°When you go to sleep, I go back into The Cosmic System and can chat with other Wayfinders. We share stories and information. You do not have to be sleeping for me to do that.¡± ¡°Can other people listen in on those conversations?¡± ¡°Well, sometimes we do talk to some of the Factions of Ascended. Keep them informed of up-and-coming Aspirants who could be recruited.¡± ¡°Let me guess¡­you¡¯re going to brag about what I did here?¡± ¡°Damn right!¡± Oliver smiled, his little whiskers arcing upward accentuating the expression. ¡°I have been the butt of so many jokes. Finally, I can shove a successful Aspirant into Jeremy¡¯s face !¡± ¡°What happens if a faction shows interest?¡± ¡°Depends. They can send you Quests, just like The Cosmic System can send Quests. If you choose to dedicate yourself to them - pledge yourself to their cause - then you are called a Signer.¡± Jace nodded as he slowly trudged along following his spectral companion. The night sky had fully encompassed all and there was no moon to light his path. Only the light cast by Oliver provided any illumination. Jace paused and stared around at the waving grasses, taking in the view. It was a stark contrast to the streets he knew so well. But those street skills had kept him alive. The night was oddly peaceful. Glancing down at his arm, he grimaced knowing that life was going to be much, much harder in the next few days. The feeling of loss welled up in him, and he cried. For the first time since losing his sister and being stuck in a crappy hospital with literal rats chewing his stumps¡­he felt overwhelming sorrow pour over him. ¡­Damn it. Why? First his feet, and now this? Sure, he was alive. But the loss of a part of him, the near-death experience, the rush of adrenaline that now left him exhausted¡­it was too much. He collapsed to the ground and sobbed. Oliver floated over, ¡°Hey¡­come on now,¡± he softly said. ¡°Just, look up. See the sky? It is beautiful. Come on, we are almost there.¡± His voice was gentle and had no trace of gruff disappointment. ¡°Just look up¡­please.¡± Looking up, Jace saw a sea of starlight and cascading red nebula that arced in clouds across the vast expanse. The sight was¡­soothing. Calming. He felt a sense of peace wash over him as he was reminded for a moment of the promise he made to Chroma. To escape Earth and live out amongst the stars. It fortified his resolve. It¡¯s just an arm. You¡¯ll get a new one. A better one. Survive for her. Bring her back. Push forward. He staggered to his feet and kept walking forward. He kept talking to stay awake and stave off his sleep debt. ¡°What happens if I reject a Quest?¡± ¡°Nothing. If you accept and then fail a Quest? You could be penalized or punished. It depends on who gave it. The Cosmic System will not punish or penalize you; but Factions could.¡± ¡°Good to know,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°Mind keeping my achievement a secret?¡± Oliver frowned and pouted as he crossed his little arms, ¡°Why?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t think I want my name spreading around right now. I mean¡­look at me. I¡¯m a dead man walking.¡± Oliver waved his paw dismissively, ¡°If I share word of your accomplishments, then Ascendants will reach out and offer Quests. Sometimes easy ones; like walking a certain distance. It could be a straightforward way to get a lot of Common Boons. Think of it like them buttering you up to try and get you to become a Signer for them.¡± Jace silently contemplated Oliver¡¯s words. Having more Quests could give me a huge leg up in surviving. But this Hidden Location Boon might be good enough for me to hold out the whole week. If it is¡­I can get this Cosmic Power and a Class. Without having to rely on some faction who might see it as indebting myself to them. But¡­I need medicine. I don¡¯t want to risk an infection. ¡°Fine. Feel free to share. But let''s use a code name so they can¡¯t track me down easily in The Eternal City or back on Earth.¡± Oliver nodded slightly, ¡°I suppose I can do that. Any ideas?¡± Jace thought back to his time as a teen when he left the orphanage. He fell in with a group of street kids who were also homeless, and the two adults who acted like their protectors. He made a name for himself. A nickname that had stuck until he sold himself for his new feet. ¡°Flicker.¡± ¡°How¡¯d you come up with that?¡± Jace smiled at the fond memory, ¡°I was good at being seen and then getting out of sight. Made me good bait so the other kids could pull off scams and rob people.¡± Oliver flitted over to a rock that was well-concealed by the grass and barely poked out over the top of the stalks. ¡°Right, well, Flicker¡­this is it.¡± He let out a raucous laugh, holding his tummy with his paws. ¡°I am sorry. Flicker? You sure?¡± Jace trudged over, nodded, and gripped the edge of the rock¡¯s underside. To his surprise, the rock was extremely light, and as he lifted it, he saw a hole descending into darkness with an ancient, wooden ladder. Oliver began flying down, and Jace clambered down after his Wayfinder, closing the rock entrance behind him. ¡°I mean¡­really? Flicker? It sounds silly.¡± ¡°Hey, screw you,¡± Jace replied. ¡°My sister came up with it. Show her some damned respect.¡± Oliver looked up at him, ¡°How old was she when she came up with it?¡± ¡°Five,¡± Jace replied. ¡°She died two years later.¡± Oliver¡¯s expression shifted to one of regret, ¡°Oh¡­sorry. I did not know.¡± ¡°Well, maybe don¡¯t be an asshole before making assumptions,¡± Jace snapped back as the Wayfinder went silent. He was in pain, felt exhausted, and angry. ¡°I¡¯m-¡± He stopped himself from apologizing for the outburst. He does not deserve my forgiveness. Not after doubting I¡¯d survive. Jace descended, gripping the rough, creaking wooden ladder. The instinct to reach out with his now-missing hand was ever-present, and he felt the phantom limb attempting to grab the object. He eventually made it to the bottom and landed awkwardly on his one good foot, and the barely-holding-on prosthetic. Oliver floated in front of him - his guiding light - and pointed down the tunnel. ¡°Look at the walls.¡± Jace did so, feeling the familiar sensation of slight electricity moving through metal. ¡°The walls are charged. Minor electrical currents.¡± He looked over at the otter, ¡°How advanced were the people on this world?¡± ¡°It was at the equivalent of your world¡¯s Renaissance, but they had really potent magic.¡± He pointed at the walls. ¡°I would bet it is some type of way to keep this place from being found. The walls are a single sheet. See? No seams.¡± Jace felt where Oliver pointed and nodded, ¡°Some type of secret base?¡± ¡°A good guess.¡± Oliver floated down the corridor, pausing to make sure the light he shed illuminated Jace¡¯s path. The duo turned a corner and were met by a large, metal door. It was the same material as the walls and floor. As Jace touched it with his palm, he could feel the faint tickling of electricity flowing through the substance. It had small rivets that could be pried out, but that would take time. There was a keyhole. Easier access. Perfect. ¡°We don¡¯t know what the species that lived here could have been doing this far out from their cities,¡± Oliver muttered as he crossed his arms, still in information-providing mode. ¡°Hey, what are you doing?¡± Jace pulled out his knife and wedged it into the lock. ¡°Once you¡¯ve seen one piece of security tech, you¡¯ve seen most of it. All I have to do¡­¡± he trailed off as he focused on prying the tumbler into an open position. ¡°Got it!¡± he shouted with elation as he heard the loud click. Didn¡¯t even need a lockpick. Their security really sucks. The door opened slightly, and the scent of dust and stale air hit Jace¡¯s lungs. He coughed as he waved away the dust. Oliver flew inside the room and began looking around the austere, square chamber. He pointed up at the ceiling, ¡°Decontamination shower, I think. Maybe this was a research outpost.¡± Jace staggered in and nodded. He looked back at the door and shut it, resetting the lock. He sagged down to the floor, the feeling of safety washing over him. ¡°I¡¯m going to¡­¡± he felt his sight dimming. I should clear this place out first. Oliver floated in front of him, ¡°I am sure this place is safe. Get some rest.¡± Jace numbly nodded and surrendered to the darkness closing in on all sides, trusting the word of his Wayfinder. Chapter 6 – Xera’tal Pen’arkon, Architect
¡°Damnit! Not another!¡± the tall, midnight-black-skinned, alien woman peered over the various panels that surrounded her large, cushioned chair. ¡°I told them to stop accessing that database,¡± she muttered to herself as her purple eyes scanned the displays. The three irises each able to focus on separate items within the same field of vision as she navigated multiple monitors at once. She tapped a few keys and composed a message to the leader of the Nebula Alliancen; a faction that ran many of the mercantile organizations on many worlds connected via The Cosmic Corridor and The Eternal City itself. <<<<<>>>>> [Deckard, please stop querying the population of Earth¡¯s endangered species. The System is still tabulating numbers. You are just clogging up queues. I will notify you when it is done. - X.] <<<<<>>>>> She sent off the message and leaned back, noting with satisfaction that the requests for native-Earth species were diminishing rapidly as the message went out and was quite obviously received. Xera¡¯tal sighed and leaned back in her cushioned chair. She rubbed her temples and groaned. I need a break, she thought. ¡°Josie?¡± A spectral, amorphous blob appeared next to her and floated around her. ¡°Yes, Xera?¡± ¡°Can you take over? I need a little breather.¡± ¡°Of course! Happy to help!¡± The Wayfinder¡¯s chipper voice always cheered Xera up, and she gave the companion a head pat right above her floating eyes. Xera left her seat and walked down the corridors of her citadel. She was in the highest tower of Khrox, in a location where only The Architects could access. The creators of The Cosmic System had all left this reality behind once their work was done. Xera was the last to stay behind. She could leave at any time and join her species in their custom-made universe, but she liked being busy. Perfection was boring. And this Cosmic System was anything but perfect. That is what happened when you tried to merge the mastery of magic, the top of technology, and the pinnacle of magitech into one universe-encompassing System. There were flaws and cracks that only became apparent with time, and she made it her personal mission to try and patch them over and fix things up. But she was struggling. Despite having behind-the-scenes Tech Support access to The Cosmic System, there were certain safeguards in place to prevent The Architects from meddling. I need more agents within the System, she thought as she went to the small kitchen of her suite and tapped several buttons on a panel. I need more Ascendants who will listen to me instead of just following their own goals. They only knew her as X. None knew her identity save for the Wayfinders - and they were incapable of revealing it due to the way they were designed. Certain Ascendants that worked as her agents did not even get her name. She was simply the mysterious moderator in the background of The Cosmic System. They did not know if she was a program or a person. And that suited her needs just fine. Most people were not even sure what The Cosmic System truly was. Some believed it to be some ancient computer system. Some thought that X was a singular deity above it all. Some even thought that the system had always existed. Well, they were all sort of right, in their own way. The Cosmic System was a bit of all of those. The ultimate creation of the highest single-universe-bound species. A delicious meal appeared in front of her, and she scooped up the plate before bringing it to the small table next to the window. She sat down and began to eat the new food - a type of fowl dish from Earth called ¡®duck¡¯ - in a delicious sauce with small pieces of round bread that was extremely soft. The sweet, sticky exterior matched well with the slightly sweet bread and a sour dipping sauce. She giggled with delight as she took a sip of her drink. A slightly alcoholic, rice-wine beverage that was recommended to pair with the food. It just keeps growing, she thought as the skyline out in the distance expanded further as new buildings appeared out of thin air. The city could endlessly expand as more and more people arrived and chose to settle in. Traversing the city was simple, as space itself would fold to ensure no location was more than a one-minute walk away. She checked a panel in the table. Wow, a lot of people hated Earth. Two billion have already migrated to Khrox. Khrox was in a weird, liminal space. Sort of in the universe, and sort of out of it. Just like the Cosmic Corridor. It was one of the genius choices her brother, Xero¡¯tol, had suggested. The two were the primary designers of The Cosmic System. He made most of the mistakes that led to the cracks now emerging. Whereas she was a slow and methodical technician and engineer, he was a ¡®go fast, break stuff, fix it and move on¡¯ type of engineer. Magic did not make things any easier, as it barely followed the rules they had forced around the nebulous, hard-to-define phenomena. She heard Josie conversing in the other room, which was Xera¡¯s small command center that allowed her to interact with every aspect of The Cosmic System. But she could not override certain parts of it. Hence her reliance on Ascendants to do some of her dirty work. Xera walked back to the command center and leaned over the console. There were thousands of Wayfinders congregated inside a sea of liquid starlight; A temporary storage for when their Ascendant or Aspirant was asleep. One in particular filled the screen. A slick, furred animal. ¡°Hi, Xera!¡± The deep voice instantly gave away his identity. ¡°Ollie, you look quite humorous in that form.¡± He swam around and twirled in place, ¡°I¡¯m getting used to it.¡± Josie¡¯s amorphous mass quivered as she giggled, ¡°What¡¯s that animal called?¡± ¡°River otter,¡± Oliver replied. ¡°I like it. I am slick and smooth. But I still have fur!¡± Xera looked at Josie, ¡°How many Aspirants survived their first day of the Trial?¡± Josie¡¯s blob-form extended numerous tendrils that interacted with the various screens and panels. ¡°Out of the five-hundred million who signed up as Aspirants, only two-hundred thousand survived day one.¡± Xera clicked her tongue. That¡¯s a little below the average rate, she thought. 0.05% was the success rate for day one survival. Earthlings had a 0.04% survival rate. That two-hundred thousand that survived would be whittled down even further. Around five-hundred total will make it through. ¡°Do we have data on why we have so many failures this time around?¡± Josie¡¯s phantom limbs rapidly fired off a series of input commands. ¡°Looks like they were just underequipped. Many just outright died once they left Earth.¡± Xera crossed her arms and nodded, ¡°That explains it.¡± Her second pair of arms flexed outward and rested on her hips. ¡°Bad timing for Cosmogenic Merging for those folks, then.¡± ¡°And¡± Josie continued in a slightly disappointed tone, ¡°It looks like the entities that control Earth - these governments and a handful of large businesses - have taken control of the portals. They are heavily restricting travel.¡± Xera clicked her tongue again, ¡°Well, draft off a message to the Star Council and Planetary Independence Pact. Let¡¯s see if those Factions can get some trac-¡± Josie shook her head, ¡°The Nebula Alliance already has representatives present and are making connections with Earth¡¯s existing political and economic power structure.¡± ¡°Damnit,¡± Xera muttered. That faction was composed primarily of merchants and traders. ¡°That will only compound the issue.¡± ¡°Messages sent. But I do not know how useful they will be,¡± Josie muttered as she turned her attention back to the screen showing the spectral form of Oliver. ¡°How¡¯s your Aspirant turning out?¡± Oliver smiled - which was odd, as he was quite a dour and gruff individual. Jaded from hundreds of failed Aspirants who never even cleared the Trial. Xera knew every single Wayfinder¡­and seeing Oliver happy instantly filled her with delight. ¡°He is alive. Killed something already. Apex predator. Check the logs.¡± Xera leaned over the monitor and scanned through the incident logs related to Oliver, and her eyes went wide. ¡°Your Aspirant fought a predator rated at the top of Tier 1?¡± she whispered in astonishment. ¡°How¡¯d he survive?¡± Josie asked as she looked at a monitor, anticipating an answer. Oliver swirled in place, ¡°He got lucky, but wow what luck it was. I mean, he could have just hid, but the Quest was too good to pass up.¡± Xera scanned through the logs, watching a recording from Oliver¡¯s point of view. The young human was resilient, no doubt about it. He had sacrificed limbs to survive - something very few would do. I¡­I could work with this. But how did he get a quest? She went through the System conversation history and slightly smiled, Ah. I see someone put in a bypass. She pulled up the personnel file of this Shhiv-zal and frowned. ¡°Why does this Civilian have so many bypass requests saved up?¡± Josie flipped through other files and data, sorting faster than Xera could. ¡°Looks like she is just a regular drone. She never goes out or does anything. Just work and in-home entertainment.¡± Xera shook her head and refocused on Oliver, ¡°So, your Aspirant. This¡­Flicker. Weird name. Is he safe?¡± ¡°Yup. He lost an arm and a leg, but he is alive and safe. Sleeping in a bunker of some type.¡± Xera smirked, ¡°You think you finally found a winner?¡±Stolen story; please report. Oliver shrugged and used his cute, adorable paws to rub his little chin. ¡°Maybe. If he lives. Depends on what is around.¡± Xera pushed Josie out of the chair and the spectral blob floated into the air above her. ¡°What¡¯s his goal?¡± Oliver grinned, ¡°He wants to get to Tier 10 to bring back his dead sister. Noble, if you ask me. If he can pull it off, he would be the most powerful Ascendant alive.¡± A lofty goal, Xera thought. ¡°Well, Ollie, I wish you the best of luck.¡± She stood up and surrendered the seat to Josie. ¡°I¡¯m off to sleep. Goodnight.¡± ¡°Goodnight!¡± both Wayfinders said in tandem. Xera went to clean up her meal before going to her bedroom. As she nestled into the sleep pod, a final thought crossed her mind. What am I going to do about this takeover of Earth?
Jace woke up with a start, his heart racing as he woke from the vivid dream of teeth and claws. Almost immediately, the pain of his missing arm reasserted itself, and he grit his teeth. Just¡­damn it. Why? Why didn¡¯t I just throw the bag into that thing¡¯s mouth? Or- There was a loud pop, and Oliver was floating next to him. ¡°Morning sleepy,¡± he said in his gruff, deep tone. But there was an underlying feeling of¡­sincerity. Jace felt his grumbling stomach yearning for food. ¡°How long was I out?¡± he asked as he turned just enough to get at the protein bar in his pocket. He ripped the packaging open with his teeth before chewing through the foul-smelling and tasting food. ¡°Three days.¡± Jace shook his head, ¡°Longest I¡¯ve slept in a while.¡± He chuckled, ¡°I¡¯m not used to having a safe place to sleep.¡± ¡°It also means you just have to survive four more days to pass the Aspirant Trial.¡± Jace nodded as he pushed himself up the wall, gritting his teeth as he forced himself to stand. Glancing up at the ceiling, he saw an ancient spigot. The floor was a metal grate with a small channel underneath it. It was then that he felt his parched throat - forgotten in the pain. There¡¯s got to be a button somewhere, he thought. Scanning the walls he spotted a very faint, glowing icon that looked like a shower head. He walked over, tapped it, and recoiled slightly as lukewarm water fell from above like a rainstorm. ¡°You¡¯re filthy,¡± Oliver muttered as he floated around the now-soaked street kid. ¡°Might as well wash up while you can.¡± ¡°I should,¡± Jace replied as he began to strip down. ¡°Can you tell if it¡¯s filled with bacteria?¡± Oliver flew up into the ceiling for a moment before returning, ¡°Nope. The tank looks clean, and it is boiling hot. There are some pipes it travels through to cool down. Arcane symbols are drawn on the pipes, but their magic language is ancient, and I cannot translate it. I would need more samples.¡± ¡°Flying through walls. That¡¯s useful,¡± Jace replied. He opened his mouth and caught as much as he could, swallowing greedily. No clue if it¡¯s endless. Better make use of it. He opened his messenger bag and held it up to the spigot, filling it with as much water as possible before he sealed and locked it. He scrubbed off the dirt with his fingernails. The infused soil sloughed off in a thick mat and went down the drain. ¡°It is a handy skill. Easy to block if you know what you are doing and secure a location. But this place is long, long abandoned.¡± Jace reveled in the feeling of getting clean - something he had not done in some months, as showers on Earth were too expensive for him to afford. ¡°Did you share word of Flicker¡¯s exploits?¡± he asked. Oliver nodded and floated around him, ¡°Yup. People were impressed. But I don¡¯t think any factions are going to give you a Quest.¡± ¡°Why?¡± ¡°Well¡­everything I see is recorded. I blurred your features to keep your identity secret, but they saw the injuries you suffered. Sorry. I really thought that if we told people about your accomplishment, you would get a bunch of easy Quests from factions wanting you.¡± Jace finished getting clean and took the opportunity to wash out his clothes as well. It was awkward trying to do so with just one arm, and he gave up after the third attempt. Well, maybe there¡¯s something in here that I can use. More than it just being a safe space. ¡°Can you search through this place real fast?¡± ¡°I cannot go further than ten feet from you. You are my tether.¡± Jace nodded and put on the still-wet clothing as he hefted the bag full of water with his good arm. There was one door leading out, and it slid sideways into the door frame. The room beyond was illuminated from above by soft, glowing green orbs of light inside wire lattice-work lanterns and smelled stale. The soft, green lights gave a sense of comfort. They were connected by a small, bronze cord along the ceiling. It was a living space. There was a small kitchen space, a few cabinets, a small table, a book, a small stand at the table, and bodies. The bodies were desiccated - centuries old. Jace hobbled over and knelt to examine them. The skin was completely dried out. They were humanoid with four legs and three pairs of arms going down their torso. The top of their heads had small, curved horns and antennas. ¡°The natives?¡± Jace asked. He examined their clothing which was little more than rags. Oliver nodded as he swirled around the room, ¡°Yup. This is a remote outpost.¡± What are the odds they left food? Jace thought as he stood up and went to the cabinets. Of course, empty. He sighed as he shut the panels. ¡°At least there¡¯s a bathroom,¡± he muttered as he opened a door with a toilet-like shape on it. To his delight, there was a full shower in here like the one in the front entry, and a toilet. I won¡¯t have to live like an animal, at least. Walking past the corpses he entered another chamber. This one looked to be a laboratory space of some kind. Desks with reams of paper were stacked high. There were tubes full of dark colored liquid. Most prominent in the center of the room was a chair. A seat with restraints for the torso, legs, and arms. A metal panel with arcane drawings was adjacent to it, and there were a series of needles and spikes that connected to tubes. ¡°What the hell is that?¡± Jace asked. Oliver¡¯s eyes went black for a moment before he responded with intrigue lacing his words, ¡°It¡¯s an experiment.¡± He pointed to a stack of papers. ¡°Start flipping through those. I cannot interact with things in the real world. But I can see all the information and collate it quickly.¡± He flew over to hover above the papers, ¡°And, once I see enough of their writing, I can work out what these arcane symbols mean. They are always based on the language of the society.¡± Jace hobbled over and sank into the seat. His stomach still grumbled, and he pulled out his last protein bar. After this, unless I find something¡­I¡¯m going to starve. He sighed and ripped open the packaging with his teeth. He put the bar in his mouth and chewed absentmindedly as he flipped through the pages. Jace kept flipping through the various records, not really comprehending much of the advanced terminology. But the language was translated because of his Universal Translation Skill. So, he got the gist of it. But Oliver took it all in and directed Jace¡¯s page flipping to a second pile. ¡°Oh, all right. We can use this.¡± He pointed at the chair, ¡°Get in.¡± ¡°What? Are you insane?¡± Jace asked as he looked at the torture device. ¡°I couldn¡¯t understand half of the medical language¡­but it didn¡¯t sound good.¡± Oliver frowned and crossed his arms, ¡°This is worth the risk. They were working on a super soldier serum. Well, the magical equivalent. The System would not have led us here if this Boon were not useful...I think.¡± The last sentence was much quieter. ¡°Have you actually ever had an Aspirant get a Boon?¡± ¡°...No,¡± Oliver admitted with a solemn expression. ¡°None of them even finished a Quest. I do not know exactly what Boon rewards of this type and rarity look like.¡± He shrugged, ¡°But I am certain The System does not do backhanded rewards. Positive.¡± Jace shook his head and stood up, ¡°I¡¯m going to do what I know how to do, first. Before any rash decisions.¡± He scoured every inch, every nook and cranny, looking for anything he could use in the medical lab. Oliver just floated over him and shook his head like a disappointed father. ¡°I know the System would not have sent you to an Epic Hidden Location if there was not something good here. This super soldier serum has to be it.¡± ¡°I am not getting in that thing unless I exhaust every other option. There has to be a first aid kit with antibiotics. Or¡­the equivalent.¡± He kept rummaging and eventually found what he was looking for. Cracking the lid on the red box, he found plenty of gauze, clips, bandages, and bottles of antiseptic liquid. He set to treating his wounds, hissing in pain as the edges of his now-metal-sealed arm wound burned from the harsh chemical. He wrapped it in a bandage before tying that off. ¡°Congratulations. You are still missing an arm and one of your feet is held on by scrap cloth.¡± ¡°Good point,¡± Jace muttered as he used more of the medical supplies to fashion a better jerry-rigged attachment for his ankle to the prosthetic foot. Oliver floated in front of the chair, ¡°Are you satisfied now?¡± ¡°Nope,¡± Jace replied. ¡°I¡¯m going to search this whole bunker and take stock of what I¡¯ve got access to. Then, I¡¯ll decide.¡± He turned to the next doorway and hobbled through it. The hallway split into three rooms. One directly ahead was a glass door, and inside he could see a generator - bright, blue, arcing electricity cascaded inside of a core. The whole object was covered with more of the arcane runes. Oliver floated up in front of Jace, blocking his view. ¡°Just an arc reactor. Infinite energy. Meh.¡± Jace snapped his eyes to Oliver, ¡°Infinite energy? That¡¯s just ¡®meh¡¯ to you?¡± Oliver shrugged, ¡°Yup. We have better in The Cosmic System.¡± ¡°This could change the world!¡± Jace replied. ¡°I could sell this for so much.¡± ¡°Well, we can take it when we leave. If you can carry it. The whole thing weighs five-thousand pounds.¡± Jace sighed in frustration. He went to the next door, and it slid open to reveal a storage closet. ¡°Perfect!¡± he said with satisfaction as he walked in and began digging through the various boxes. He found lots of metal, wood, and some weird metal-like but bendable scrap. I might be able to rig up a better way to keep my detached foot in place. ¡°Not much here,¡± Oliver muttered. ¡°Shame, I was hoping for an armory.¡± ¡°Still one more door.¡± Jace crossed the hall and opened the last room, stepping across the threshold. An enormous flash of light engulfed him. Chapter 7 – Magitech and memory
The flash of light was followed by a cacophonous bang and Jace was blown backward by the shockwave. He screamed out in pain as he hit the wall. Putting his hands out instinctively, he crashed down onto his stump and almost blacked out. ¡°Crap!¡± Oliver flew around him, ¡°You are hurt bad. Bleeding heavily.¡± Jace groaned in pain and felt the warm liquid pooling under himself. Looking up, he saw a small, glowing turret that was trained on him but did not fire again. It¡­must just¡­protect the room. Oliver flew in front of his face and filled his vision. ¡°You¡¯re not dying on me!¡± he shouted with determination. ¡°Get your ass in that chair. Right now!¡± A surge of adrenaline shot through his body. The words of his sister echoed in his head. A moment later his own thoughts raced through his mind. I¡¯m not going to die here! He pushed himself to his knees and his one hand. Blood kept pouring out from his torso - a consistent cascade of red goop. ¡°Come on!¡± Oliver urged. Jace followed the spectral otter until he was gripping the legs of the chair. ¡°Pull yourself up!¡± ¡°I¡­¡± Jace grit his teeth and tried to pull himself up. Slowly, agonizingly, he was able to wriggle his body into the seat. He was so, so tired and absolutely covered in his own vital fluid. ¡°Tap the rune on the armrest! It has raised edges!¡± Jace weakly fumbled around, finding a small, raised symbol. He pressed his finger against it. The straps on the chair slid out from behind him and tied him in place. He felt the slight prick of needles entering him all over¡­and darkness took him.
¡°Chroma! Get back here!¡± Jace shouted as he chased after his little sister. ¡°You¡¯re it!¡± she shouted back as she ran across the park, giggling and laughing. Jace caught up to her and scooped her up as she continued to giggle, ¡°We¡¯ve got a little bit longer. Enough for a few minutes on the swing.¡± ¡°Okay!¡± Chroma shouted as she wriggled free of his grip and sprinted toward the slides. Jace followed her, feeling quite content seeing her happy. Buying access to the park cost him quite a bit, but for her? No price was too steep. He reached into his pocket and cupped the small cake in a little box he was saving to cap off the day. This was their tradition. Every year, for her birthday, she wanted the same thing. A small cake and time at the park with her big brother. And he pushed himself hard to make sure he could provide that for her. Their life was far from perfect, but he was making sure she had an enjoyable childhood - something he did not have. It was why he went back and snuck her out of the orphanage. She got onto the swing and began moving back and forth, ascending higher and higher. Jace stood near her, just smiling as she started to twist in the air, coiling up the chains as they would then unravel in the opposite direction. The sound of heavy, metal feet crunching on the soft, plastic padding caught his attention, and Jace turned to find one of the park attendants standing nearby. He gestured to Jace, and mouthed the words, ¡®time¡¯s up.¡¯ Jace nodded and reached out for the chain, slowing Chroma¡¯s swinging until she came to a stop. ¡°Aww. Are we out of time?¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Yeah. Sorry. I just had enough for the hour.¡± She hopped off the swing and walked past the attendant, muttering a short, ¡°Thank you¡± as she did so. ¡°You¡¯re welcome, little lady,¡± the man replied as he looked back to Jace. Jace just gave the man a terse nod before he caught up with Chroma and grabbed her hand. ¡°Don¡¯t you think you¡¯re a bit old for the park?¡± Jace asked as he walked her out and back into their life. The streets. Their home. ¡°Mmm¡­nope!¡± she said with a small laugh. ¡°I like it.¡± Jace pulled the small, plastic container from his pocket. ¡°Happy birthday, Chroma. I love you.¡± She hugged his leg, ¡°I love you too.¡± She grabbed the cake from him and opened the container, holding it up to him. ¡°Do you want a little?¡± ¡°It¡¯s all yours,¡± Jace replied with a smile. She practically squeaked with delight as she dove in. ¡°I¡¯m also working on a new project. One that¡¯ll get us a little apartment.¡± She looked up, her eyes wide. ¡°What type of project?¡± ¡°Just something some of the other street folk are putting together.¡± Jace knelt to her level and put a hand on her shoulder, ¡°Don¡¯t worry though, it won¡¯t make me leave you. Stick together to survive.¡± She nodded, ¡°Stick together to survive.¡± Jace heard the squealing of tires and stood up. There was a chase going on up the street. Some type of gang related turf war, fought out in vehicles. Not an unusual sight, but it pushed Jace into survival-mode immediately. ¡°We have to move.¡± He picked up Chroma and began to run towards an alleyway that would provide shelter from the conflict. A loud bang was followed by a scrit of metal skittering across asphalt. Jace barely turned around in time to see the flat sheet that protected the underside of the vehicle propelled towards him. It sliced through his legs right below the knees, and he let out a scream of pain as he fell over. Chroma rolled out of his grip as he fell forward. Right into the street. Into the path of one of the out-of-control cars. They must have seen her, because they tried to swerve, but they side-swiped her and she went flying off the road, crashing into a building as brick chunks scattered around her.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. ¡°Chroma!¡± Jace shouted as he crawled over to her. She was barely breathing, and he was able to turn her sideways just enough to see her face. She was crying, her tears streaking down her face as she whimpered. ¡°I don¡¯t want to die,¡± she barely managed to get out of her crushed face. ¡°Stay with me,¡± Jace replied as he began to succumb to the blood loss. ¡°...survive¡­¡± her eyes went dull, and her body went slack. Jace passed out mid-scream.
¡°Gah!¡± Jace woke up, breathing heavily as the vivid memories of his sister¡¯s death played through his head. He was still strapped to the chair, and he felt dizzy. Nauseous. He leaned over to his right side and retched. ¡°You¡¯re alive!¡± Oliver said with relief, floating just in front of Jace¡¯s face. ¡°How do you feel?¡± ¡°Like hammered shit,¡± Jace replied. His head was pounding, and he could acutely feel every tingle of agony assaulting his skull. ¡°Touch the symbol just in front of the other one to get out.¡± Jace did as he was instructed and sighed with relief as the pressure left him. He looked down at his forearm - the metal on his arm had vanished. A smooth, healed-up stump replaced it. He felt the minor, tell-tale itch of healing flesh - but running his good hand over it, he could tell it was fully restored with minimal scarring. Perfect for a prosthetic attachment. Looking down at his legs, he felt a jolt of shock. Both of his legs from the shin-down were healed-over, pristine stumps. His full prosthetic and the chewed-in-half one were both on the floor. ¡°What was that stuff?¡± he asked as he looked at the empty tanks. ¡°The magitech version of a super soldier serum. You are¡­much bulkier than before. Thank The Architects that it also healed you! That was a total shot in the dark. The arcane symbols had something to do with ¡®mending¡¯ and ¡®restoration,¡¯ so the gamble paid off!¡± Jace could feel the thicker muscle in his arms, and he used his good hand to feel along his upper arm. ¡°Damn, you¡¯re right. I can¡¯t even fit my fingers around my bicep anymore.¡± Checking his stomach, he could feel the clear definition of abdominal muscles. He slowly put his foot-stumps on the ground and began to put weight very gingerly on them. I can at least get around. Not fast. But¡­it¡¯s something. The cool, metal floor was a welcome sensation to the itchy stumps. Oliver floated around him, bobbing just between his legs before spiraling up around his torso and alighting just above his right shoulder. ¡°Looks good. No permanent injuries.¡± ¡°Really? No permanent injuries?¡± Jace used his good hand to gesture to himself. Oliver grimaced, ¡°Okay, well¡­We can fix that. You have prosthetics back on Earth.¡± ¡°Over a hundred days walking. Oh, wait. It¡¯s going to take way longer now that I don¡¯t even have feet!¡± Jace felt his stomach rumble, and he looked around for his messenger bag. It was on the ground next to a large pool of blood. ¡°I was close to death, wasn¡¯t I?¡± he asked as a pit formed in his stomach. ¡°Yup.¡± Jace shook his head, ¡°Too many close calls,¡± he muttered as he got up, opened the bag, and took several long sips from the cool water within. Sealing it back up, he peeked around the corner at the room that had exploded in his face. A small turret with a set of four barrels was attached to the ceiling of the room. It was a square-shaped contraption and had the same metal wire housing around it. A metal wire also ran along the ceiling to the generator room. A magic- magitech? Turret. Great. Jace went back to the laboratory table, grabbed a small book, and threw it into the threshold of the room. The turret immediately locked onto it and fired off a burst, shredding it with flechette rounds - tiny, razor-sharp metal chunks. Brutal , Jace thought. How to disable it¡­ ¡°Oliver, can you check in there and see if there¡¯s anything worthwhile in it?¡± ¡°On it!¡± Oliver flew through the door and returned a moment later, ¡°I doubt the two we found dried out were able to get past the turret. There are supplies there! A crate of what looks like food, and gear kits in satchels.¡± ¡°I have to deal with this turret,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°We know the doorway has something to do with the trigger.¡± He scanned the edges of the door frame, keeping his eyes peeled for any sign of something he could cut into and disable. The cord running along the ceiling was the first thing that popped into his mind, but upon closer examination, he saw it was fused into the ceiling - he could not cut it even if he wanted to. ¡°What about the spell arc reactor?¡± Oliver asked. ¡°Just shut off power to the facility.¡± ¡°Definitely viable,¡± Jace replied. But I¡¯m not getting locked in here. Let¡¯s do a quick walk-through. He went back through the facility, and traced the small, metal cords along the ceiling to each of the different items that this magical energy fed into. Looks like it¡¯s just the lights, the turret, the chair, the decontamination shower, and the bathroom. ¡°These arc reactors, can they be started up again?¡± ¡°It takes a big surge of magical energy. Once we turn it off, it will be useless.¡± I need food more than luxuries, Jace thought. But first. He went to the living quarters and found every single container, pot, pan, lid - anything that could hold water - and filled it from the decontamination shower spigot. Soon enough, he had several dozen gallons of water in various objects. After refreshing himself in the restroom, he went back to the arc reactor door and opened it. The sparking, crackling blue lightning inside the enormous machine was enthralling. It danced and cascaded all around the inner chamber. ¡°Right, how to turn this off¡­¡± He walked around the circular pylon until Oliver pointed out an arcane symbol. Jace used his knife to scrape away at the substance, peeling away and disrupting the symbol. The power sputtered out and the only light source was Oliver, hovering in space. ¡°Looks like that did it,¡± he stated. Jace walked to the now unprotected doorway, tossed a scrap of metal into the aperture, and grinned as there was no movement from the turret. He went in himself and found the box Oliver had scouted out. It was easy to carry with handles on both sides, and he moved it out to the living quarters by pushing it along with his stumps. If I am going to be here for a few days, I don¡¯t want to have roommates, he thought as he looked at the two corpses. He lifted them - with surprising ease, given their mass - and set them in the turret-protected, now empty room. It was a slow process as he was tottering around on stumps and fell a few times. But the serum must have made him more resistant to pain, as even the discomfort he expected from walking on stumps was negligible. Oliver floated behind and above his shoulder, ¡°You are stronger now. That chair did something good.¡± ¡°I¡¯m happy it didn¡¯t have any negative side effects.¡± ¡°So far,¡± Oliver quipped. Jace looked up at him with an annoyed glare, ¡°Yes. So far. Thanks for reminding me that I am filled up with experimental goop.¡± He turned his attention to the supply chest and unlatched the handles. Chapter 8 – Quinn Cipher, Webwalker
¡°Run faster!¡± Quinn shouted at the Aspirant that was lingering behind her. ¡°I¡¯m trying!¡± the burly man named Greg replied as he huffed and puffed trying to keep up. ¡°I¡¯m built for sprints!¡± Quinn¡¯s Wayfinder - a sparrow named Valerie, chirped in with a peppy, female voice. ¡°Welp! He is a goner. Just keep going! You are almost there.¡± They had appeared on Velenar Prime, about four days¡¯ travel away from the portal to The Cosmic Corridor. Quinn had found the large man sitting on a rock, taking the scenery just as she had at first. She had asked him if he wanted to team up, and he instantly agreed. Safety in numbers was the thought. As Quinn rounded a corner she caught a glimpse of the massive portal. It was the size of a skyscraper, towering up into the black clouds above that poured out torrential rain. There were a few hundred people clustered around it, and they had erected a wooden fortification - spiked logs facing outward. The growling and snarling behind her pushed her on faster. Her cybereyes were able to easily pick out the best path, and she did not slip once despite the mud and downpour. ¡°Almost there!¡± Valerie said merrily. ¡°Then you can relax for a few days.¡± Time seemed to stretch on forever as Quinn outran certain death. The people in front of her manning the wooden stakes shouted at her. ¡°Come here!¡± ¡°The opening is on this side!¡± ¡°Weapons ready!¡± She sprinted to where they were pointing, and found a trench lined with stakes, facing inward. ¡°Dive!¡± one of them shouted, and she instinctively did so, army-crawling on her belly under the spiked barrier. The creature behind her yelped and then the noises faded into the night. She was grabbed from the front by the arms and yanked out of the safe space. A man with a dashing, white crop of hair and soft, green eyes looked down at her. His skin was dark, slate grey, and he had two irises in each eye. ¡°Glad you made it.¡± Quinn stood up with the man¡¯s help and looked down at her tattered clothes. ¡°Thank you.¡± Greg came crawling through the gap a moment later, huffing and puffing in the dirt. ¡°That¡­was¡­too close.¡± He laid prone and rolled over as he chuckled. ¡°I¡­almost died.¡± His pant legs had been torn away by the jaws of the creature that had almost caught him. ¡°Who are you?¡± Quinn asked the man who had helped her up. ¡°Mizarion, Tier 5 Ascendant,¡± he replied as he reached into a pouch on his well-adorned hip and removed a piece of round fruit. He took a bite of it and offered it to her, ¡°Want some?¡± She could not tell what it was - but she was hungry. She grabbed it and took a bite before recoiling in revulsion. ¡°You eat raw lemons?¡± ¡°Weird,¡± Greg commented from the ground, still catching his breath. His Wayfinder, a large spider, crawled around on his shoulder and whispered to him. He just laid back and looked at the conversation occurring right above him. ¡°Earth food is tasty, and my taste buds are way different than yours,¡± Mizarion replied to Quinn as he took another bite. ¡°So, three more days to survive. You can stay here with us if you want,¡± he hiked his thumb over his shoulder, ¡°Or head to The Eternal City. Or heck, even Earth if you want. Just need to live another three days.¡± ¡°Why are you here?¡± Quinn asked, searching for his angle. ¡°You must have a reason besides altruism.¡± Mizarion chuckled, ¡°I represent the Star Council. If you¡¯re interested in making the universe a better place, we¡¯re the faction for you. We send Ascendants and some of the Aspirants who have sworn to our cause - Signers is what we call them - to guard these portals. There¡¯s other factions that try to kill off new Aspirants before they have a chance to even complete their Trial.¡± ¡°What if we want to be selfish?¡± Greg asked from the ground. Mizarion shrugged, ¡°There are other factions besides mine.¡± Quinn cleared her throat and Mizarion refocused his attention on her, ¡°How do I spot them? These other Aspirants who might want to kill us.¡± He smiled and spat out some of the seeds, ¡°Anyone who looks like they worship oblivion. Black Hole Conclave. They want to feed everything in the universe to a giant singularity at the center of it all. Madmen. And women. They¡¯re like cultists worshipping a god of annihilation.¡± She nodded as activity picked up around her. Looking off where everyone else was looking, and using her enhanced, zoomed vision thanks to her installed optics, she spotted another figure running from out of the hills; a few of the creatures were tight on their tail. ¡°Can¡¯t you help him?¡± ¡°Well, we don¡¯t interfere directly. Ascendants aren¡¯t supposed to get involved in the Aspirant Trials. But¡­if you¡¯re interested in our faction, I can give you a Quest that lets you help him out. Interested?¡± ¡°Nope,¡± Greg muttered as he finally got off the ground. He towered over Quinn and Mizarion. ¡°I¡¯m good.¡± Quinn looked as the beasts continued to chase the man. She had only a sharpened stick, and those creatures were numerous. ¡°No. I don¡¯t think I can help.¡± Mizarion chuckled and took another bite of the lemon. ¡°Shame,¡± he said as he chewed on it. ¡°But I don¡¯t blame you.¡± She turned to him and crossed her arms, ¡°Three days longer, correct?¡± ¡°Aye, that¡¯s right.¡± ¡°Well, I think I¡¯ll head to this Eternal City then.¡± ¡°The Eternal City. Make sure you either say it fully or use the actual name. Khrox. Some of the residents dislike having their new home disrespected.¡± He shrugged. ¡°Anyhow. Go into town and look around. Just be careful - you¡¯re still fair game for any Aspirants for the other factions.¡± Quinn stared down at the ground, the experimental microcomputer inside her brain enabling rapid calculations and risk analysis. ¡°I¡¯d rather stick around here. I¡¯d be correct in assuming you could stop other factions from doing stuff to me, right?¡± Mizarion nodded, ¡°Aye. I am allowed to interact with people who have passed their Aspirant Trial. So, I can keep you safe from any Signers for the Black Hole Conclave.¡± ¡°That¡¯s good,¡± Greg said. ¡°I would hate to die before getting these powers I¡¯ve heard about.¡± Quinn looked around and spotted a circle of logs near tents. She went to sit, and this Mizarion fellow sat down next to her. She looked at him and took a photograph with her cybereyes, filing his name and the image away for reference. ¡°What are the factions?¡± she asked as she looked over to the wooden structures erected for defense from the wildlife.Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! ¡°The Star Council, my faction, is led by Star Father. One of the few Tier 8 Ascendants. Anyways, we want to peacefully integrate new worlds into The Cosmic System but helm them towards positive ends.¡± ¡°Seems altruistic. What do you get out of it?¡± Greg asked as he joined the two. Mizarion smirked and kicked his legs out in front of him as he snapped his fingers. Space distorted around his hand and a second later he was holding a bar of gold. ¡°Resources. The Eternal City does not have raw resources. Worlds along The Cosmic Corridor do. That¡¯s really what every faction wants. Resources to make things. The Star Council wants to help worlds become Type 1 Civilizations. Ever heard of that?¡± Quinn accessed her miniature database and nodded, ¡°Yeah, a scientist named Kardeshev came up with ranking a civilization based on their technological advancement.¡± Mizarion snapped his fingers, ¡°Precisely. Type 1 means that the planet is fully under control - everything being manipulatable. Anyways, the Star Council doesn¡¯t just want raw resources like the rest - we want to help civilizations advance. Whether with magic or technology, or magitech - which is just a fancy way of saying ¡®both¡¯ types of advancement.¡± He sighed and juggled the gold bar in his hand, ¡°Then you have the Black Hole Conclave. They are our opposites. They want to take over new worlds and - over millennia - steer them into the singularity at the center of the universe. If you ever hear someone use the words ¡®oblivion awaits,¡¯ fight them or run¡­depending on their Tier.¡± ¡°Why doesn¡¯t the Star Council just beat the shit out of them?¡± Greg asked. ¡°Stop the problem before it spreads.¡± Mizarion¡¯s smile turned to a slight frown, ¡°Their leader, Troxanir the Endless Hunger, is supposedly a Tier 9 Ascendant. A physical manifestation of the singularity at the center, if you believe such a thing is possible. Only Star Dad could take him on in a straight-up fight.¡± He shook his head, ¡°Anyways. Then you have the Nebula Alliance. Folks all about trade and building up networks of exchange - but they sit at the top. Worlds they take over tend to turn into corporate hellscapes - like what Earth is angling towards.¡± Quinn felt a sense of unease churn in her chest. ¡°They willingly do that to people?¡± ¡°Aye. Then you have the Pulsar Coalition. They think of themselves as the defenders of The Cosmic System who really have problems with the Black Hole Conclave. Last is the Planetary Independence Pact. Ascendants who returned to their home world and kept the other factions from intervening. They just want their world to stay¡­mostly the same. We don¡¯t have much issue with them.¡± Quinn filed away every little bit of information into her database. ¡°Just to make sure I¡¯ve got this right. Ascendants can¡¯t directly intervene in Aspirant Trials, but other Aspirants who have cleared the trial can.¡± Mizarion nodded, so she continued, ¡°And sometimes these Aspirants are Signers for one of these five factions.¡± ¡°Well¡­¡± Mizarion trailed off as he looked up into the sky. ¡°There¡¯s rumored to be a sixth. I mean, we know there is a sixth faction out there - but the Ascendant at the top is completely unknown. We don¡¯t even have a guess as to how many Ascendants form the faction. We call it the Dark Between Stars.¡± Quinn followed his gaze, ¡°What do they do?¡± ¡°Honestly? I don¡¯t know. The few times I¡¯ve heard of them interacting with any of the factions¡­they showed up at a pivotal moment. Not all the time, but sometimes when there¡¯s a big conflict, they¡¯ll show up and turn the tide.¡± A super powerful, secret faction? How would a person even get into it?
Jace dug through the supply chest and found plenty of food. Airtight food that could last for two months. Two large canteens. A medical supply kit for travel. A bright, orange tarp-like cloth. A powerful flashlight-like stick that momentarily blinded Jace as he fiddled around to try and turn it on. A knife with a serrated back for cutting wood. A stick of flint for starting up fires. ¡°At least I¡¯ll be set when I leave,¡± he muttered as he shut the chest and slowly shoved it into the living quarters, up next to the containers full of water. Oliver floated over his shoulder, providing plenty of light for him to work by. ¡°Gonna stay in here until the Trial is done?¡± the Wayfinder asked. Jace nodded, ¡°Three days. I have plenty of water and lots of food.¡± He glanced over at Oliver, ¡°It¡¯ll also give me time to rig up some basic feet.¡± He went back towards the supply closet that held the spare mechanical parts, and scanning through them he dug out a series of bits and ends. Good. There is enough scrap here for me to make something basic. He would not be sprinting, but it would be better than walking on stumps. He sat down against the wall and set to shaping the bits and pieces of metal. It was softer than his belt knife, and he could cut through it with surprising ease. Must be the new muscle mass, he thought. ¡°Oliver, what side effects could this serum stuff have?¡± ¡°It could be anything. But The Cosmic System would not give you a reward that harms you.¡± Jace gestured to the now disabled flechette turret, ¡°That begs to differ.¡± Oliver looked up at the turret, and then back to Jace. ¡°Well¡­¡± Jace sighed and stared at the otter, ¡°I don¡¯t think you know as much about this System as you should. Can you go and ask someone how it works? I don¡¯t want to be fumbling in the dark if you can shed some light on it.¡± Oliver nodded. ¡°Okay, I can do that.¡± He sounded quite sincere, and the disappointed tone Jace had been hearing up until he dragged himself up into the chair was gone. ¡°Sorry,¡± the Wayfinder muttered. You should be, Jace thought. But instead, he shrugged. I have to stay on his good side. He¡¯s starting to warm up to me since I¡¯m showing that I¡¯m not useless and dying off the get-go like the rest of the Aspirants he has dealt with. ¡°You didn¡¯t know. Now find out¡­please.¡± Oliver saluted with his little arm and vanished with a pop. Jace set to work with his knife and after a few hours took a break to eat one of the rations and drink some of the water. The rations were weird paste that tasted excellent. He devoured two of them before he felt full. Then, right back to work. Hours passed, and he completed the first of two simple prosthetic feet. They were not articulated - just metal platforms with a small rig that led to a cup-shaped spot for his stump to fit into. The cup shape was made from the weird bendable metal, so he was able to perfectly mold it to the stump. I can tie it on later, he thought as he looked at the metal scrap. The other foot tomorrow. He went to the living quarters and laid down on one of the beds. It was firm at first, but then slowly softened as he sank into it. There was a pop and Oliver floated above Jace with a satisfied look. ¡°Okay. The goop you were injected with is not going to do anything bad. And apparently Hidden Location and Secret Cache Boons can have traps. So, we just have to be cautious with those two. The rest do not have danger.¡± Jace smiled, ¡°Thanks for checking. What did the goop do exactly ?¡± ¡°Well, you are going to be physically at the peak of your health until you die, so major plus there. It increased your longevity - not to immortality levels, but a good twenty years. It cured any diseases, genetic disorders, and other maladies. Maybe more ¨C but we need to talk to a physician-type Class Aspirant or Ascendant to find out exactly what it is.¡± Oliver floated above him, staring down at him. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± the Wayfinder stated. ¡°Sorry for being a jaded prick earlier. Every Aspirant I have had failed before finishing the Trial. I figured you would be the same.¡± ¡°Happy to disappoint you,¡± Jace replied. ¡°Now, if you don¡¯t mind, I¡¯d like to sleep a bit.¡± Oliver nodded and vanished with a pop once more. Chapter 9 – Cosmic Power and Classes
Jace rolled out of bed and stretched. Oliver must be busy, he thought as the spectral Wayfinder did not ¡®pop¡¯ into existence when he awoke like the day before. I should just get to work. He made his way to the same supply closet and began to replicate his creation from the day prior, holding the flashlight in his mouth. About an hour passed before Oliver appeared with his telltale pop. ¡°Hey, sleep well?¡± Jace just nodded as he slowly shaped the metal into a bowl. He spoke through the corner of his mouth, ¡°I did. We¡¯ve got two days until this Trial is over. What happens after?¡± ¡°You will choose a Cosmic Power. Think of it like a power source. You will have several options. The most popular is Planet.¡± Jace pulled the magic flashlight out from his teeth and shut it off. ¡°You¡¯re talking about like in video games?¡± ¡°Precisely!¡± Oliver swam around in the air as he spoke, ¡°If you chose Star as a power source, then your Class Skills would be flavored by that choice. So, if you chose something like Mage as a Class, you could throw fire, light, radiation - anything that a Star produces.¡± ¡°So, with Planet, I¡¯d get something like dirt or rocks?¡± ¡°Anything that could be found on a planet. Wood, stone, metal, plants. It is a broad category, and that is why it is one of the most popular. Extreme versatility, in fact.¡± ¡°What are the other options?¡± ¡°Nebula, Black Hole, and Pulsar; in addition to the aforementioned Star.¡± Those are all stellar objects¡­but he¡¯s missing the biggest one. ¡°What about Dark Matter?¡± Oliver¡¯s face went blank, ¡°Come again?¡± ¡°Dark Matter. It takes up a lot of space. If a Star or Black Hole could be a power source, why not Dark Matter? It¡¯s out there, somewhere.¡± Or, at least, that¡¯s what I learned when I got to visit that museum on its free day. The memory of taking Chroma there for his birthday was one of his fondest, and he smiled faintly. ¡°I¡¯ll query the System.¡± Oliver¡¯s eyes went black, and he shook his head as his eyes returned to normal, ¡°Umm¡­You have a chat request.¡± Jace paused his work, ¡°Sorry?¡± ¡°Umm¡­X wants to talk to you.¡± ¡°Who is that?¡± Jace asked. Oliver opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out as he froze in place. ¡°Oliver?¡± The spectral river otter just floated in place, mouth ajar and eyes black pools, just like when he accessed the System. A female voice came from his Wayfinder¡¯s mouth. ¡°Sorry about that. This is the best way to talk. Hello, Flicker. I¡¯m X.¡± Jace set down his tools and leaned back against the wall, cracking his neck, ¡°Why did you want to talk.¡± The voice sounded¡­curious. Inquisitive. ¡°Why did you ask about Dark Matter?¡± ¡°It makes up a lot of the universe, doesn¡¯t it? So why isn¡¯t it a power source?¡± ¡°It is,¡± the voice replied. ¡°It¡¯s a secret power source that I prevent people from choosing. So, tell me, why should I let you choose it?¡± Jace smiled, ¡°I think I¡¯m pretty special. Has anyone else killed one of those Vyrk-things?¡± ¡°No, they have not,¡± the woman replied. ¡°I only let people access it who¡­become a Signer for a specific faction.¡± Jace gestured for her to continue, ¡°Go on.¡± ¡°My faction. One that only very few Aspirants are allowed into. In fact, they have to do something remarkable to stand out during their Aspirant Trial to even have a chance of getting my attention.¡± Her voice shifted to a sadder tone, ¡°And none have survived to Ascendant.¡± ¡°Why do you lose so many?¡± The tone shifted to frustration, ¡°Their work upsets other factions and they are hunted down. My faction, Dark Between Stars, represents people who are helping me keep The Cosmic System in check. You¡¯re familiar with computers, I trust?¡± ¡°I know the basics.¡± ¡°Then you¡¯re aware that computer Systems develop bugs, need hotfixes, and updates. Well, The Cosmic System is like that. I¡¯m the technician that keeps fixing things. Magic, mundane, technology, magitech - the whole deal.¡± She sounded disappointed, ¡°I can only do so much. Safeguards were put in place to prevent an administrator like myself from manipulating The Cosmic System for their own benefit. But¡­Aspirants and Ascendants can meddle where I can¡¯t.¡± ¡°Ask away.¡± ¡°Pardon?¡± Be confident. Jace smirked, ¡°I¡¯m sure you have questions you want to ask. And I¡¯m interested. I can¡¯t remain a free agent and reach Tier 10. I doubt the factions would be okay with a powerful, non-committed Aspirant.¡± He heard a slight giggle, ¡°Seriously? There¡¯s never been a Tier 10 Ascendant.¡± ¡°I¡¯m going to get there,¡± Jace countered in as serious of a tone he could muster. ¡°It¡¯s the only way to bring Chroma back.¡± ¡°Who?¡± ¡°Someone I love.¡± There was silence. A tense, heavy silence. Jace felt the tension in the air, and it almost became unbearable as he began to open his mouth. But she responded. ¡°I¡¯ve looked through your file. Since joining The Cosmic System, you¡¯ve shown extraordinary resilience, thought fast on your feet-¡± she made an upset noise, ¡°Sorry, forgive the unintentional pun.¡± Jace waved it away, ¡°All good. Please, keep praising me.¡± He tried to pour as much suave into his tone as possible. Even if he did not end up allying with this X person, he could stay on their good side. She was in some position of hidden power. He would be a fool not to. She laughed, then resumed her intrigued tone. ¡°You¡¯ve also got a knack for survival, which might be more important than anything else¡­If you¡¯re interested, I¡¯ll make you a Signer for my faction and unlock access to Dark Matter as a power source.¡± ¡°What¡¯s it do?¡± ¡°Dark Matter is nebulous and on Earth your scientists have only guessed at it. My people know what it really is. Invisible matter. It doesn¡¯t absorb, reflect, or emit any light. Fully undetectable. It also does not interact with electricity or magnetism. It exerts a gravity well, as well. Not as potent as Black Hole would allow for, but you could affect a much larger area.¡± ¡°How would I use it?¡± ¡°Cosmic Power sources alter your Skills granted by a chosen Class. It could manifest in many number of possibilities. There are so many possibilities that I¡¯d be here for decades listing off what might be possible.¡± Jace leaned his head back and nodded. ¡°Last question. If I joined your faction, survive the Aspirant Trial, get to The Cosmic Corridor and all that¡­what would I be doing as your Signer?¡± ¡°You¡¯d be influencing events with which I cannot interact. Helping to keep balance in The Cosmic System. Finding problems and fixing them. In some cases, breaking things to make sure other things work. It would require you to work against the interests of factions. You¡¯d be making enemies¡­but I make sure that my Signers have the best Boons.¡± She giggled, ¡°I get to assign Quests if I choose, and I can make their rewards the highest rarity level.¡± She sounded very sincere. This woman is extremely powerful if she is the tech support for the whole System. Staying on her good side would be a smart way to ensure I can rise to Tier 10. But¡­don¡¯t make it easy. He knew that if he was too eager, then he would be showing her a weakness she could exploit. And he did not trust her yet. ¡°How many Signers do you have right now?¡±Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. He could feel the disappointment in her voice, ¡°None. I¡¯ve got my eye on a few from this current Aspirant Trial¡­cracks are beginning to emerge in The Cosmic System that I can¡¯t fix. I need Signers. Right now? You¡¯re my best bet.¡± Well, she¡¯s being vulnerable. But still¡­build up the wait. Make her desperate. Make her want you. ¡°I¡¯d like a bit to think on it.¡± ¡°...I understand¡± She sounded slightly annoyed. ¡°If you do want to become a Signer for my faction, then let Oliver know. He¡¯s been present for this whole conversation.¡± Oliver¡¯s body jerked and his eyes returned to normal. ¡°Oh, that is always weird.¡± His voice was back to normal as well. Jace picked up his small tools again, ¡°Welcome back.¡± ¡°I was never gone,¡± Oliver muttered as he floated just in front of Jace. ¡°Right. So, you learned about X. Thoughts about her?¡± ¡°For all I know she could be listening in,¡± Jace replied with a slight frown. ¡°I want to think about it. For now¡­tell me about these Classes you both had talked about.¡± Oliver bobbed up and down, ¡°Classes give access to Skills. You choose a Class, and your Cosmic Power influences the Skills and its name. For example¡­let us say you wanted to focus on stealing stuff. You would be a Thief. If you chose Nebula as your Power Source, then you would be a Nebula Thief. Make sense?¡± ¡°Yeah. Simple enough. What are the limits to Classes?¡± Oliver spun in the air, ¡°Limitless. You can choose professions - like Baker or Mechanic - Classes from those video games you mentioned, and anything else you could imagine.¡± It would be neat to be able to fight and use this Cosmic Power at will. ¡°Are there any Classes that let a person fight well and use their power-¡± ¡°Swordmage,¡± Oliver interjected. ¡°That is the best one that matches what you describe. Melee weapons and phenomenal cosmic powers in the palm of your hand. Spell and blade, cannot go wrong.¡± Jace smirked, ¡°That means getting up close and personal. Honestly, something with a gun would be better.¡± Oliver shook his head, ¡°Guns need ammunition. And they will not work on every world.¡± ¡°Come again?¡± ¡°Certain worlds have technology restrictions. There are plenty where The Cosmic System forces changes. A gun would not work if you went to a world with a lower technology level.¡± Oliver held up his little paws and a blade of starlight appeared in his hands. He swung it with his little paws, the cascading sparkles left behind a mesmerizing display. ¡°And swords are in every world. Something blade-like, for sure. I mean, you could go with something like Archer, but projectiles are easy to deal with. Most people do some combination of melee and magic or choose something that aligns towards a merchant or professional role.¡± Still not convinced, Jace thought. I don¡¯t want to be forced up close with something. But it doesn¡¯t sound like these Classes or the Skills that come with them will force me to do something I don¡¯t want to. I can still use all my honed talents from surviving on the streets. I can still hide, sneak around, and run. He smirked and chuckled, Plus, Dark Matter is invisible. If there is some Skill that lets me cover myself in it¡­I might never have to fight things. The two near-death experiences were jarring, and Jace knew he would need time to properly decompress. But now was not the time. ¡°I¡¯ll think on it,¡± he told Oliver as the otter dropped the blade of sparkles which then vanished as they fell. Jace set to finishing the last few parts of the prosthetic. Oliver just floated in place, and his eyes were vacant - as if he were off somewhere else. That did not bother Jace, and he welcomed the light source as the rest of the place was dark save for that and the flashlight. The time alone allowed him to reflect. As he fit the prosthetic to his foot stump and began to secure it, he thought back to the encounter with the Vyrk-thing. One of the talents he developed back on Earth - as all street kids did - was looking at a previous situation to learn from it. He replayed the encounter in his mind. I did the right thing stripping down to hide. But I should¡¯ve stayed hidden. It was too risky to kill it. He had been blinded by the idea of a reward. I can¡¯t let myself get carried away like that. I was lucky. The ferrofluid was a completely dumb stroke of luck. I can¡¯t rely on random chance and circumstances like that. I should play it smarter. Don¡¯t take Quests that have too large of a risk for the reward. He thought through the travel to this hidden bunker. Nothing to improve on there. Down the tunnel, and into the facility. Nothing to improve there, either. Except not securing the facility before falling asleep. But that wasn¡¯t really something I could control. He had been exhausted and was lucky he even made it to the base in the first place before passing out. Last was the whole situation with the turret and the chair. I have to be cautious. Even in a place that feels safe, I can¡¯t let down my guard until I¡¯ve secured it all. That brought him to Oliver. The Wayfinder could travel a few feet away from him and was invisible to all except Aspirants and Ascendants. I need to use him more to scout. His Wayfinder seemed, for lack of a better term, inexperienced. This is just as new for him as it is for me. I can¡¯t rely on him as a crutch. He¡¯s a tool in my kit. Use him to get information from the System. Use him to scout. But don¡¯t rely on his advice. He looked up at the otter as he finished securing his other foot. But¡­he was right about the chair. Jace focused on his muscles over his body - years of training coming to bear as he slowly flexed and unflexed each part he could isolate. A common talent among anyone who had to stay hidden for long - the consistent muscle movement prevented cramps. In this case, it also demonstrated just how much his muscles had grown. He was stronger, no question about it. And he had healed from the near-life-threatening injury because of the call Oliver had made. I have to trust him more. Trust was a hard commodity in Jace¡¯s life. He tried trusting his mother - she dumped him in an orphanage. He trusted the orphanage, and they abused him to the point he had to run away. He tried trusting other couriers, and one tried to kill him. Trust was hard-earned. But if he did not trust Oliver¡­he felt a shiver of fear at what could happen if he did not get over his hangups. Jace sighed and tried putting weight on the prosthetics. He took a few test steps, and then tried to jog in place. Identifying where the supports were weaker, he sat back down, took them off, and made more adjustments. Rails that could run up the shin and then be secured. Trying once more, he found them satisfactory enough. He could jog in place, and sharp turns would be the only real limitation. Is there anything I can do with my arm? He picked through the various parts and shook his head as he came up empty. ¡°Hey, Oliver. Can we break apart anything else in this bunker? Like, can we repurpose that turret as a gun?¡± Oliver¡¯s eyes refocused and illuminated. He flew over to the turret and his head disappeared inside of it before he pulled it back out. ¡°You could get it off the housing. It would need a power source - magitech based - and convert the ammunition container. Plus, something to put it on to make it portable. Some type of platform.¡± Jace dug through the various scraps and found a long length of metal that could work as a grip and platform. He kicked a box over and slid it to climb up next to the turret. Unfastening the object was easy enough, but he could not catch it, and the turret clattered against the ground as the ammunition rained out over his head. ¡°Damnit,¡± he muttered as he carefully got off the box and tried his best to scoop up the ammunition. Soon enough, he had a small pile of all the parts. ¡°Power source,¡± Jace muttered as he investigated the now-dark reactor room. ¡°Think we can take apart that arc reactor? Maybe get something going like a basic battery and crank-powered generator? I mean, you said magi tech, so that implies I could rig some simple, purely mechanic device.¡± Oliver flew through the door, and Jace slid it open as he followed the spectral otter. Oliver flew into the machine and emerged a few moments later, ¡°I¡¯ll point out what you need to pry or break off.¡± The two spent several hours disassembling the device with only short breaks for Jace to scarf down a meal and get some water. Eventually, he had the components he needed, but before leaving he stopped over the desiccated bodies in the spare room. ¡°Can¡¯t I turn them into Stardust, also?¡± Oliver nodded, ¡°Sure. It won¡¯t be much, but I can do that.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not like I can bury them,¡± Jace replied as he wiggled his stump. ¡°Go ahead.¡± Oliver flew over them and sparkling starlight cascaded upon the bodies before they vanished, becoming a swirl of sparkles all their own that he vacuumed up into his little paw. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 10.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace sat down, but Oliver floated above him and held his paw up. ¡°It¡¯s late.¡± He waved his hand, and a clock appeared next to him. <<<<<>>>>> [23:30.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Well, this can wait until tomorrow. It¡¯ll take me most of the day to make the gun, anyhow.¡± Jace stood up and went to the living quarters. As soon as his head hit the pillow, he felt the call of sleep. Chapter 10 – Break in and self-defense
¡°Can¡¯t you run any faster?¡± Chroma asked as she kept ahead of the heavily laden brother she loved to playfully torment. Jace shook his head, weighed down with all their worldly possessions. ¡°Do you want to carry the bags?¡± ¡°Nope!¡± She skipped forward and he pushed himself to follow her despite his sore legs. They had been walking for hours, moving from central Manhattan out to New Jersey. Myscape Industrial had taken over the island proper, and they were converting the whole city into their new headquarters. For street kids like Chroma and Jace, the best they could hope for was a fresh start in a city where the megacorps were still fighting for control. Chroma slowed down and let Jace catch up, grabbing his hand and holding it tight. ¡°You promised,¡± she said as her expression became dour. Jace sighed, ¡°Yeah. I did. Okay, what do you want to know about her?¡± ¡°Well¡­what was she like?¡± ¡°She wasn¡¯t home much. But¡­when she was home¡­she would let me sit on the bed with her. She was always tired from a day of work and would just let me lay next to her.¡± He smiled as the memory always brightened his mood. ¡°She scratched my head and ran her fingers through my hair, and kept telling me she would get me into the daycare where she worked.¡± ¡°I mean, how did she look? Do we look like her?¡± ¡°You do,¡± Jace replied as he looked at his sister with a grin. ¡°You look just like her, minus the frown.¡± Chroma nodded and gripped his hand tighter. ¡°Why¡­why did she leave?¡± Jace opened his mouth, wanting to tell her that their mother had no choice but to abandon them. Come up with some made-up story. He did not want to lie to Chroma. Anyone else? Sure. But not her. Never her. He knelt, ¡°She¡­she left me - and then you - at the orphanage because she wanted to focus on her career. She always said that once she made it big and could afford to keep us, she¡¯d come back for us. But¡­that never happened.¡± Chroma had a few small tears running down her face, and she wiped them before nodding with a determined look. ¡°We¡¯ll show her! We¡¯ll get super rich, find her, and show her she missed out on the best thing ever.¡± Jace nodded and stood up, grabbed her hand, and jumped as a car backfired. Bang!
That didn¡¯t happen. It was a bridge, no one was starting their car- Jace shot up in bed, brought out of the memory-filled dream. Bang! The sound came from the entry room. He instantly went for his belt knife and rolled out of the bed, crouching close to the ground. There was a pop and Oliver appeared. ¡°Hi Jace! Sleep well?¡± Jace waved him away and pointed at the outer door, making the street kid hand symbols for ¡®danger¡¯ and ¡®outsider.¡¯ Oliver just stared at him blankly, ¡°Yeah, no, I cannot understand that. But I think I get the gist.¡± He floated forward through the door before pulling his head back. ¡°Oh crap.¡± Jace gestured for the otter to keep speaking. ¡°An Aspiran-¡± A spectral snake floated through the door. Well, close enough to a snake for Jace¡¯s imagination. It had rigid scales and a mane of fur around the head. ¡°Oh, look at that. You will be easy to kill and con-.¡± Oliver clapped his paws, there was a pulse of starlight that expanded to the walls, and it shoved the snake out of the room. ¡°Tier 2 Aspirant. I have blocked the Wayfinder from the room, but once the door opens the block will fade. The Aspirant will be hard to hurt since he is two Tiers up.¡± The otter grimaced, ¡°I hope this isn¡¯t the end for you.¡± Jace got into the entry room with the decontamination shower and jumped up, gripping the ceiling with his one arm. Thanks to his new strength, he was able to pull himself up into the ceiling with relative ease despite the single appendage. ¡°His Cosmic Power is Black Hole, so expect gravity manipulation and entropy. He must be here for the serum you used. When he finds out its gone, he will be pissed.¡± Jace looked at the otter and gave him a look of, ¡®no shit.¡¯ He followed that up by making a stabbing motion. Oliver nodded and flew back towards the living quarters. ¡°I¡¯ll distract them.¡± He cleared his throat and spoke way too loudly, ¡°Yeah, no. They totally cannot take you on. Just hide and ambush them! Yup! Right over there. Perfect! They would never look inside the cabinet!¡± Going a little over the top, Jace thought as he stilled his breathing and froze entirely in place. He kept his blade poised and ready. He had only killed two people in his whole life. The first was a junkie who tried to abduct his sister to sell her to a pedophile for quick cash or drugs. Jace had run that man down, tackled him, and accidentally split his skull on the pavement. There was panic at first, but then he ran from the scene with his sister and spent weeks replaying the scene over and over. The result he came to was that in some instances, especially when protecting those you loved, lethal force was justified. The second was a fellow courier who attempted to murder him to get a larger cut of a split delivery. That one almost cost Jace his life, as the man got the jump on him and stabbed him in the ribs - the bones causing the blade to stop partway in. He had used the moment of stunned surprise to gouge the other man¡¯s eyes out with his thumbs, and the blinded courier walked into the street only to get pancaked by a transport. Neither instance triggered a feeling of guilt. Both of those instances were justified. Just as what he was about to do, now, was just. A foe he would not be able to fight in a straight-up brawl, with some powers of gravity that, for all Jace knew, could smush him into a tiny sphere of meat. Getting an underhanded jump on this person and killing them first was his only chance of surviving. The door below wrenched open. A heavily armored person in plated armor cautiously entered, glanced in each direction - except for up and down - before passing under Jace. The person¡¯s left hand glowed. A black circle with a white center. It glowed through his armor. Now! Jace twirled his body, hung on with his stump of an arm, and coiled his legs under him. He dropped down with the momentum of the swing, kicking out as he did so. Bang! The metal feet slammed into the person¡¯s head, and the armored person tumbled forward, momentarily stunned. Jace let the rest of his weight land on top of the figure, pinning them to the ground. He wriggled the knife into the slit between neck armor and helmet. The knife dug in - not as deep as he would have imagined. Must be because I¡¯m a Tier 0 and they¡¯re Tier 2. But his newfound strength more than compensated for the default difference in Tiers. He felt the blade slide down past the muscle and sinew, catch on bone, and he wrenched it left and right.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. The person stopped struggling and went limp. They were breathing ever so slightly, but he knew he had severed something in the spinal cord. Their snake-Wayfinder flew up to his face, and he almost recoiled from it. ¡°How dare yo-¡± Oliver flew up and slammed the serpent with his paw, ¡°Otter punch!¡± The snake Wayfinder hissed, ¡°You¡­you¡¯ll pay!¡± It vanished with a pop. ¡°Not sure how this Aspirant had a Wayfinder sti-¡± he flew down and looked at the person¡¯s fingers, ¡°Ah, they weren¡¯t an official Signer.¡± Jace looked down at the person and kept his knife firmly planted in their spinal cord as he removed the helmet. Writhing, grey flesh that slowly pulsed in time with the creature¡¯s heartbeat. It had scales atop its head, and a pair of horns. He could hear the faint gurgling as it struggled to breathe. ¡°Oliver, what are the rules for Aspirant-on-Aspirant violence? I assume it¡¯s okay, since this one was coming for me.¡± ¡°Yup. The rules are a bit complex-¡± ¡°Later, then,¡± Jace replied as he took off his ragged shirt and used the sleeves to tie the person¡¯s arms behind their back, just in case. ¡°How¡¯d they find us?¡± ¡°Well, this was a Hidden Location. But since you found it, it was not hidden, anymore. So, The Cosmic System logged where it was. This person was not a Signer for the Black Hole Conclave, because if he was, X would have stripped his Wayfinder from him.¡± He tapped his chin, ¡°I don¡¯t know how they got here so fast¡­that¡¯s a mystery to me.¡± Jace nodded as he stripped the person down, piling their gear to the side. Except for the armor - he would have to untie them to take that off. He spied buckles and straps. It looked like an ancient design. ¡°Okay. Now tell me the rules.¡± ¡°You will not get any more Stardust from them than what their base species is worth. So, you cannot take his accumulated Stardust that he has used to gain levels. Equipment disappears when they die¡­but.¡± Oliver grinned, ¡°There is a fantastic opportunity here. The Pulsar Coalition hates the Black Hole Conclave. Let me reach out to them. I bet they would give you a Quest for taking out one of their enemies. Well, possible-Signer of one of their enemies.¡± ¡°Alright. See if we can get something for this guy.¡± ¡°Yup. Give me a minute.¡± Oliver¡¯s face went blank, and Jace used the time to look over the still alive but paralyzed body. It was human-like, but it had features of some type of lizard or reptile. It was not very muscular. I wonder if being paralyzed prevents Skill use entirely. Judging by the gear and other equipment, Jace imagined that this thing was not a marksman. A type of bruiser. I¡¯d bet that their Class Skills have to do with hitting things harder. They relied on their armor for defense. I¡¯m probably safe. He could see a small pulse of black and white light appear in front of him. ¡°Oliver?! What¡¯s he doing!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay an applicant to the Black Hole Conclave.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Rare (Equipment).] [Sender: Pulsar Coalition.] <<<<<>>>>> Oliver¡¯s eyes returned to normal, and he flew in front of Jace. ¡°Crap! Quick, finish him!¡± Jace nodded and gripped the knife. Pressing it forward, he kept applying pressure until the form stilled. Just to be sure, he sawed the blade back and forth, feeling the sinew tear away until the spine was fully separated. The black energy faded from the creature¡¯s hand. Jace breathed a sigh of relief. There was no remorse, no sense of disgust at his actions. Like those two people he had killed due to circumstances¡­this was justified. He was raised in a violent world. From an early age, after his mother abandoned him, he knew nothing but the hardships of his youth and the violence that came along with it. He did not relish killing this person. He did not want to kill people. He just wanted to live. Plus, it was in self-defense. If he did not get the drop on this guy, he would not have survived. He was sure of that. Survive, he thought. Survive until you¡¯re a Tier 10 Ascendant. Get Chroma back. Jace was surviving. And this was justified. That was enough. The body vanished - as did all the gear. Even the stuff Jace had removed vanished. The sparkles flew into Oliver¡¯s paw. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 5.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay an applicant to the Black Hole Conclave.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Rare (Equipment).] [Sender: Pulsar Coalition.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Why so little Stardust? And what happened to all his gear?¡± ¡°Equipment is ¡®stored¡¯ in the Wayfinder¡¯s System-side information storage. When the Aspirant or Ascendant dies, the Equipment is there for a long time. But, when the person is dusted, all of that Equipment, no matter where it is, is recalled. As for the little amount of Stardust, people in general are worth less because they don¡¯t have inherent traits. Humans, for instance, are anywhere from 5 to 10 because they are just fleshy sacks with mostly brainpower. Versus a Vyrknadine ¨C that wolf thing you fought ¨C is an apex predator.¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°And, having people worth less Stardust de-incentivizes committing mass killings for personal power.¡± ¡°Thanks for the information,¡± Jace said. ¡°Makes sense when you put it that way. Okay, I want to use that Boon.¡± Oliver crossed his arms, ¡°What do you want?¡± ¡°What am I limited to?¡± Jace asked as he stood up, wiped the blade clean on his pants, and put his shirt back on. ¡°Rarity is subjective. It is determined by the world you received the Equipment Boon. So, for example, on a world that is more rustic and not as technologically advanced, a stick would be Common, and a magic sword would be Legendary.¡± ¡°This world had a magitech super soldier serum, so they must have had good prosthetics. I need an arm.¡± ¡°Let me see here¡­¡± Oliver¡¯s eyes went dark again, and a few moments later he roused again. ¡°Ah, I found a good one. They called it a Wirecannon Arm. It has a grappling hook with a super strong cord built in, and a retracting cable. You can use it to travel up steep surfaces or buildings.¡± ¡°Or pull someone to me,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°Is that the best thing they have?¡± ¡°The best thing for versatility and survival. There are some that are fancy but meant more for pleasure purposes. Including ones that vibrate. I figured you would not find that especially useful.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Let¡¯s get the grapple one.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Rare (Equipment).] [Manifesting.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace felt a searing heat in and on the stump of his arm that then traveled up to his shoulder. He screamed out in pain and grit his teeth as he leaned against the wall of the decontamination shower. There was a glimmer of blue-white starlight that surrounded his limb, and he felt white-hot pain. The starlight faded and he was able to take deep, shaking breaths as his heartbeat slowed once more. He examined his new artificial limb. It was a deep, cerulean, metallic blue color. There were lines of black that cut through at geometric angles. It ran all the way from his shoulder down, having taken away his stump along with most of his natural arm. He held it up to his face and slowly turned it over. In the center of the palm was a small hatch, and on the exterior of the index finger, a small notch that the thumb fit perfectly into. He held his palm out towards the wall, tapped the notch with his thumb, and recoiled slightly as a spiked, metal cord shot out with extreme speed, sinking into the wall. He felt it begin to retract and stood his ground. He was in a tug-of-war with the device, evaluating its tensile strength. It did not budge. Feeling around the index finger with his thumb, he found another notch, and to his satisfaction, the spike retracted its hidden prongs. A third button and the cord coiled itself back up. ¡°How much range does it have?¡± ¡°Fifty feet.¡± Jace smiled, ¡°Well, this will make things easier.¡± He went to the door leading to the entry tunnel and closed it. ¡°Let¡¯s make that flechette pistol. It should kill enough time to the end of the Aspirant Trial.¡± Oliver floated ahead of him, ¡°I have found schematics in the System database that we can use to work our way through. It will not be perfect, but it¡¯ll be serviceable!¡± Jace looked back to where the corpse was before, ¡°You mentioned something about him still having a Wayfinder that was odd. What¡¯s that about?¡± ¡°X hates the Black Hole Conclave since they want the whole System to be consumed by oblivion. So, once an Aspirant or Ascendant becomes a Signer for their faction, she removes their Wayfinder.¡± He gestured to the area where the corpse once was. ¡°This person was an applicant; meaning they had not been accepted. Coming here to check out the new location was probably his ¡®task¡¯ to be let into the faction.¡± ¡°You¡¯d think a fanatical cult would take anyone in,¡± Jace replied. Ollie frowned, ¡°You would think that. But, some people try to infiltrate factions as a Signer, and then disrupt it from within.¡± Good to know, Jace thought. Chapter 11 – Matters of Dark Matter
The hours passed comfortably. Oliver provided schematics and was able to slowly pick them apart, visually separating out the various layers of the designs. Jace was able to intuit how the device would be put together by having Oliver re-layer the different components over each other. It was work-focused, but the two were driving towards a singular goal. Neither was cracking jokes or trying to get to know the other. There was a desired result, and they both wanted to achieve it. As Jace took a meal break Oliver kept looking over the design. ¡°I wonder¡­can it be integrated into the arm? We have not mounted it yet.¡± Jace swallowed down the delicious goop and took a sip of water that had begun to grow stale from sitting out in the various containers. ¡°I don¡¯t want it attached to my arm. Just holding it will be fine.¡± Oliver huffed but nodded, ¡°Fine. Your arm, your choice.¡± He sounded slightly irritated that his idea was shot down. ¡°It¡¯s not a bad idea. Just that I don¡¯t want to commit a single limb to it.¡± Jace tossed his belt knife back and forth, twirling it in each hand. ¡°Ambidexterity.¡± The artificial limb, despite being brand-new, felt natural. As if Jace had been born with it. It just felt¡­right. He assumed it was because it was magitech. Oliver¡¯s tone became brighter, ¡°Ah, well. That makes sense.¡± Jace returned to his work and within a few hours of more concentration he had a functional - if crappy looking - flechette pistol. He had to rig up small boxes of ammunition that he would dump into the top; so, he could only fire one cluster at a time before a reload. A scatter-shot of five rounds in one burst. There was a small crank on the side that would have to be wound up in between shots to power the device. He made sure the magazine was empty, pointed the pistol with the extremely steady prosthetic arm, and pulled the trigger. He took an empty cartridge, pantomimed reloading, cranked the charge handle, and pulled the trigger again. Six seconds. Too long for mid-combat up close. And this thing will have crappy accuracy over distance. The best use for it would be to use it to stall if something closed with him quickly. Oliver nodded with satisfaction, ¡°Looks good. And we are just about done with the Aspirant Trial.¡± Jace stood up and stretched, ¡°Alright. What do I need to do?¡± ¡°Just wait a few more minutes. Maybe get to a place to sit or lay down. It is going to be disorienting.¡± Jace laid down on the bed and Oliver floated next to him, ¡°What¡¯s it going to feel like?¡± ¡°I only have what the System gives me. This is my first time going through this, also.¡± The otter was swirling in place in excitement. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see what happens!¡± The familiar voice of Shhiv-zal came to him as a message played across his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Congratulations! Damn, did you get more buff? Hot. That new arm is very, very interesting. Anyways. Okay. Work. You made it past the Aspirant Trial! Major congratulations.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Thanks,¡± Jace replied, pushing aside the fact that this woman was enthralled by his looks. Flattered, but he was focused on his goal. ¡°What¡¯s next?¡± <<<<<>>>>> [I am going to put you into that liminal Starlit Sea. Your Wayfinder will be with you. Just answer the questions honestly. Oh, I also saw a flag from X on your profile. Is everything okay?¡±.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Just fine,¡± Oliver said as he swam through the air over Jace¡¯s head. <<<<<>>>>> [Okay then. I will be keeping an eye on you. I expect a visit when you get to The Eternal City. I will forward my contact information to Oliver.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace felt his vision go black and he was surrounded by warmth. Every direction showed the liquid starlight from when he met Oliver. The otter swam through the seas next to him, ¡°Well, this is familiar.¡± Jace nodded and looked around, waiting. He was not waiting long, as a grid appeared before him. A series of symbols with corresponding names. <<<<<>>>>> [Star.] [Nebula.] [Pulsar.] [Black Hole.] [Planet.] [Dark Matter.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Before you make your choice-¡± Both Oliver and Jace looked to the right where the voice came from. There was a square aperture - a screen - and a gorgeous, black-skinned woman with deep, purple eyes and long, silver hair. She also had two pairs of arms; both were crossed in front of her ample bosom. The eyes had six irises, and no whites - just purple and the black orbs within. ¡°Hi X,¡± Oliver said as he waved. She looked at Jace, ¡°Flicker. What¡¯s your real name? If you¡¯re going to be my Signer, I want the real thing. Oliver has been keeping it hidden. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll keep it hidden, too.¡± Jace looked over to Oliver, ¡°Thank you,¡± he said softly. The otter nodded, and Jace turned back to the woman. ¡°Mine for yours. X is a code name. What is it really?¡± The woman smirked and leaned back in her chair, ¡°Xera¡¯tal Pen¡¯arkon. An Architect.¡± ¡°I¡¯m Jace Seren. Do you go by X to everyone?¡± ¡°Yes, X is what I am referred to by every Wayfinder and component of The Cosmic System. Only my Signers can call me by my shorthand name, Xera. Speaking of Signers; did you make up your mind?¡± He took a deep breath in before letting it out slowly. This is it. A defining choice. Time to get on the good side of possibly the most influential being in the whole System. ¡°I¡¯m in. I¡¯ll be your Signer.¡± She grinned and leaned forward, ¡°Excellent. Now, turn back to the choice panel. Be ready, you¡¯re about to hold the power of the cosmos in the palm of your hand.¡± Jace followed her instructions. I want the secret, hidden power that it sounds like no one else has. He tapped Dark Matter. Everything went black. ¡°Why can¡¯t I see?!¡± he shouted out as he turned in panic, reaching for something - anything. ¡°Just wait a moment,¡± Xera said. Jace felt a soft, fuzzy paw on his shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± Oliver said. ¡°I am here. You are fine.¡± ¡°I thought you were ethereal?¡± Jace asked as the sudden contact brought him out of his panic at sudden blindness. ¡°In the real world? Yes. But we are inside The Cosmic System right now. I am as real here as you are. Not just a projection.¡± Jace saw dim, purple dots across his vision. Blinking his eyes rapidly, the purple dots expanded until he could see the ocean of stars once more. But it was not the same color. Everything was washed a slight purple hue. ¡°What happened?¡± ¡°You can see in the dark, now. A benefit of choosing a Cosmic Power. It¡¯s not a true Skill, but rather an aspect of your Cosmic Power being accessible. Your hair has some purple highlights. Your eye color shifted as well.¡± Xera smirked, ¡°Other Cosmic Power sources have a similar effect. Dark vision is standard for all of them. The color they see is different. Same with hair highlights and eyes.¡± ¡°Doesn¡¯t that mark me as one of yours? The hair and eyes? Makes infiltrating difficult.¡± ¡°Look at your hand,¡± She replied. Oliver grabbed his good hand and lifted it up. On the back, Jace saw a symbol. A square with pointed edges, and a swirling series of deep purple, light purple, and neon purple shapes that constantly shifted and danced around each other. ¡°This marks your Cosmic Power. Same with the eye color and hair highlights,¡± Oliver stated. He tapped the center of Jace¡¯s palm, ¡°The symbol is visible even when covered, but only to other Aspirants, Wayfinders, or Ascendants.¡± He grabbed Jace¡¯s fingertip, and that¡¯s when Jace saw the dark, purple nails that shifted between shades of the same color. ¡°And the nails mark your faction affiliation. Species without fingernails instead have the tips of their fingers ¨C or equivalent ¨C colored.¡± Xera nodded, ¡°Correct. Glad that the recognition program update rolled out successfully. Just checking that off my list¡­¡± Jace looked around, ¡°Will it ever all look¡­normal? Or do I have constant purple vision?¡± ¡°Just when you are in the dark or in The Cosmic System,¡± Oliver replied.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. ¡°How rare exactly is Dark Matter?¡± Jace asked. He held up his hand towards Xera, ¡°When people see this, will they flag me?¡± She shook her head, ¡°The Aspirants won¡¯t know what it means. An Ascendant who has been around for a while, is well-connected, or well-informed might know. Wayfinders will if they query the System, but that would take upwards of five minutes to get through my obfuscation. Thirty have encountered it before and would know it on sight. And even then, they would need to tell their Aspirant. That¡¯s hard to do when being struck.¡± Oliver nodded, ¡°My job when you are facing an Aspirant in combat is to keep their Wayfinder busy so they cannot access The Cosmic System and dig up data on you. We do not suffer permanent injury, but have you tried getting into a computer when someone is punching you? It is tricky.¡± Xera chuckled, ¡°Continuing¡­the faction affiliation can be covered up by wearing gloves or gauntlets. The shifting fingernail color doesn¡¯t go through all coverings, unlike the Cosmic Power symbol. Don¡¯t worry about the eye and hair color - those only manifest when you use a Class Skill.¡± Oliver crossed his arms and grinned, ¡°If others don¡¯t know Dark Matter¡¯s symbol, then they¡¯d have to look it up¡­and they won¡¯t when I sock them!¡± Oliver took a few practice punches in the air. ¡°Otter punch!¡± Xera added. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t worry too much about people flagging you as a part of the Dark Between Stars.¡± Another screen popped up in front of Jace. The mechanical voice accompanied it. <<<<<>>>>> [Use the space below to describe what you desire to do with your Cosmic Power.] [The Cosmic System will then determine a selection of Classes based upon your description.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace ran a hand through his hair. ¡°Well¡­alright.¡± As he spoke, the words lit up on the screen. ¡°Crap, delete that.¡± The words vanished. Oliver floated next to him, ¡°Just describe what it is you want to do.¡± Well, I¡¯ve been thinking about it for days now. ¡°I want to be able to fight things up close with what I¡¯m comfortable with - so, knives, mostly. But I also want to be able to use Dark Matter¡­at will? I guess that¡¯s the best way to put it. Summon it around me to turn invisible, throw it around to make gravity wells? It can do that, right?¡± The screen filled up as he spoke, and after he finished speaking it flickered before being replaced with a series of boxes with names of Classes inside. <<<<<>>>>> [The Classes that best match your description are as follows.] [Swordmage.] [Swordmage.] [Swordmage.] [Swordmage.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°What¡¯s the deal?¡± Jace asked, feeling frustrated as he looked over to Xera. She had a bemused expression. ¡°I thought I was going to be given a choice?¡± She giggled, ¡°I could enable the other Class choices¡­but trust me. I designed the Class to work with the Cosmic Power you chose. Dark Matter goes with Swordmage like bread with butter. You have that on Earth, right?¡± I¡¯ve heard of it, Jace thought as he turned back to the screen. Haven¡¯t tasted it, though. Butter is for rich people. He looked at Oliver, ¡°I¡­¡± He let out a sigh. ¡°I trust you¡­is what Xera saying correct?¡± He shrugged, ¡°Implicitly. If she says it is the best, it is. She has been around for¡­well, since it all started. She knows Classes better than anyone.¡± He lowered his voice to a whisper and flew right up to Jace¡¯s ear, ¡°Plus, she has an interest in keeping you alive. She needs you. You can trust her.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Good enough for me.¡± He tapped the top-most Swordmage option. He was surrounded by a dim, golden glow. A few seconds passed, and he could feel a tingling sensation along his skin. The glow faded, and he was wearing quite different clothing. Grey pants with plenty of room to move around. A light, breathable shirt. Boots that snugly fit onto his makeshift prosthetic feet that were quite supple. A pair of gloves fashioned from a type of dark leather went up to the forearm. Lastly, a cloak that wrapped around his torso and midsection before trailing behind. A belt kept everything in place and tidy. He felt a weight on his hip, and attached to the belt was the black hilt of a weapon with a cross guard. ¡°Where¡¯s my knife?¡± he asked. Xera replied, ¡°When you choose a Class, you get Class specific gear. For you, it¡¯s armored clothing - there are little scales sandwiched in between the material - a cloak that will keep you warm or cool in any weather if the hood is pulled up and it¡¯s cinched tight. And of course, the signature Swordmage blade. Go ahead, pull it out.¡± Jace followed the instructions and drew the blade. It was pure black, seemingly absorbing all light. It felt¡­natural in his grip. He took a few practice swings with it, and with each swing of the one-handed blade, he felt supremely confident. Did¡­proficiency come along with the Class selection? A screen appeared in front of him once more. A status display. Like the one Oliver had shown him before. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 1.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 1), Dark Matter Shield (Rank 1), Swordmage Stance (Rank 1) Stardust: 515 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, flechette pistol, flechette ammunition (x45), Wirecannon Arm, Runner''s Replacement (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x50), canteen (x2), medical kit, orange tarp, flint bar, flashlight Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Are all of the Skills named like that?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Would someone else get a Shield ability, but have it named something else?¡± ¡°Correct,¡± Xera replied. ¡°They are either a static name ¨C such as Cosmic Infusion ¨C or are altered by the chosen Cosmic Power.¡± The world began to simmer and shift around Jace. ¡°Time¡¯s up,¡± Xera said rapidly. ¡°I¡¯ll be keeping an eye on you. Stay as long as you can on Velenar Prime; it¡¯s a high threat for a Tier 1 world, meaning you can level up quickly. I¡¯ll send you some Quests, also. Stay safe!¡± The starry sea faded and Jace found himself in the bed once more. The whole room was a slightly purple hue. Must be the dark vision at work, he thought as he sat up. Glancing down, he saw the new clothing still on his body, and there was a slight clinking at his waist. Looking over, he saw just the hilt and cross guard of the sword - but not the blade. It had transported from his hand in the Starlit Sea back to his hip. Does it retract or something? He stood up and drew it from the slot on his belt. The blade expanded as he drew it until it was the full length of around two feet. There was a pop as Oliver manifested in front of him, and his purple sight faded as the otter illuminated the area. Jace swung the blade a few times, ¡°How come this feels so natural?¡± ¡°Let¡¯s pull up the Skill descriptions.¡± <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Blade (Rank 1) - The blade is rendered invisible, with only the hilt being observable. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 1) - Creates a barrier of invisible matter that acts as a shield. Attached to the forearm of the non-dominant hand. Ambidextrous note: you may swap arms at will. Swordmage Stance (Rank 1) - The user becomes proficient with all bladed weapons. <<<<<>>>>> ¡°And in addition to that, you have Universal Translation and Environmental Adaptation,¡± Oliver added as the screen vanished. ¡°How do I use those Skills?¡± ¡°Some are always on - like Swordmage Stance. The other ones you can think the Skill name, shout it, or just¡­do it.¡± He shrugged, ¡°None of my Aspirants have made it this far, so I do not know what ¡®do it¡¯ entails.¡± Jace closed his eyes and practiced his breathing technique, holding the sword out to his side. In through the nose, out through the mouth. He focused on nothing but breathing until he felt completely calm, and all extraneous thoughts were pushed aside. I don¡¯t want to think about using it. I just want to use it. Invisible weapon. Come on. Behind his closed eyelids, a diagram appeared. A pattern. He followed it with his eyes, tracing the pattern along the back of his eyelids and instinctively tracing it with his fingertip. Oliver gasped, and as Jace opened his eyes, he saw a deep, purple hue covering the blade. ¡°That¡¯s invisible!¡± Oliver shouted in ecstatic joy. ¡°To everyone but us two, that is.¡± Jace thought of turning it off, and the coating vanished. Now to see the different ways to activate it. He first closed his eyes and re-traced the pattern with his sight alone, tracing the pattern along the inside of his eyelids. Opening them, he saw nothing different. All right, finger gestures it is. He subtly performed the small series of movements, and the blade glowed with energy once more. ¡°It¡¯s like entering a code on a keypad,¡± he stated aloud. Oliver nodded, ¡°Makes sense that the System would alter it in a way that made it familiar to you.¡± Jace closed his eyes and repeated the process, envisioning instead a shield on his prosthetic arm - which would enable him to still use the grapple line. He saw the pattern appear once more - slightly different than the one for the Dark Matter Blade, and he traced it in the air with his fingertip. He saw a shimmering, purple shield appear on his prosthetic arm, facing the outside. ¡°That¡¯s good,¡± he muttered. It was transparent, so he could see through it, and knew exactly where it would cover. Oliver nodded, ¡°I will say. And it is invisible to anyone else!¡± ¡°Last thing,¡± Jace said as he dismissed the effect. ¡°I¡¯m going to see if both can be activated with a single motion.¡± He closed his eyes once more. All right. I want both Dark Matter Blade and Dark Matter Shield. An intricate, complex combination of the two gestures appeared. He replicated what he just saw. The blade was enveloped with purple light, and the shield appeared on his arm. He felt a slight fatigue set in. ¡°Let me guess,¡± he muttered as he glanced at Oliver. ¡°Using these Skills costs me some energy. If I overuse them, I¡¯ll pass out.¡± ¡°Yup.¡± Jace nodded. So, I cannot keep activating them and deactivating them over and over. Understood. Time to practice. ¡°Keep a timer in between attempts. I¡¯m going to try and perfect my speed in activating these Skills.¡± Oliver gave a little thumb-up, and Jace spent the next several hours repeating the pattern with his finger until he had memorized both and had reduced the activation time down to under two seconds. He felt tired but was quite happy with the rapid progress. ¡°Now,¡± he stated as he dismissed both effects and sheathed the blade - all but the hilt vanishing as he put it on his hip. ¡°I want to use that Stardust to level up.¡± Chapter 12 – The first of many
Oliver nodded and swam in space, ¡°Right. So, leveling up is straightforward. You just tell me to spend the Stardust. You will then get to choose to Rank up an existing Skill or choose a new one.¡± ¡°I¡¯m assuming Rank up means improved efficiency in some way?¡± ¡°Yup.¡± ¡°Can we see a list of the new Skills?¡± ¡°Nope. Instead, you just describe what you want, and The Cosmic System either finds a matching Skill from the database or invents a new one.¡± ¡°If I¡¯m going to be surviving on an alien planet with more of these apex predators¡­combat efficiency makes the most sense. What would Ranking up Dark Matter Blade do?¡± The answer filtered across his vision. <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Blade (Rank 2) - The entire blade from hilt to tip is rendered invisible. <<<<<>>>>> ¡°And what about Rank 3 if I wanted to pursue that route?¡± <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Blade (Rank 3) - As Rank 2, and the blade inflicts those struck with a minor gravitational pull, slowing their movement. <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Seems handy,¡± Oliver said. ¡°It does¡± Jace replied. ¡°But that¡¯s another level off. What about Dark Matter Shield? What do the next two ranks offer?¡± <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2) - The barrier expands to the size of a tower shield. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) - The barrier encompasses the whole body. Unlike prior Ranks, blocking damage consumes the user¡¯s energy. <<<<<>>>>> Well, it¡¯s good to know that just manifesting the Shield at Rank 1 or 2 doesn¡¯t drain more energy for blocking. But fully encompassing myself in a shield? That¡¯s tempting. ¡°Question for you, Oliver. Can I manifest a Skill at a lower Rank than whatever I have currently?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± ¡°Alright, last one. What about Swordmage Stance?¡± <<<<<>>>>> Swordmage Stance (Rank 2) - The user becomes an expert with all bladed weapons. Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) - The user becomes a master with all bladed weapons. <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Well, that is a bit subjective,¡± Oliver quipped, crossing his little arms as his tail swung in place. ¡°Let¡¯s go with the Dark Matter Shield Rank up,¡± Jace stated. He saw Oliver reach into where a pocket would be on the side of his leg and a chunk of glimmering Starlight flew from him and into Jace¡¯s chest. He felt a warmth spread from the center of his torso; the same warmth he felt sinking into that starry sea. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 2.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 1), Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2), Swordmage Stance (Rank 1) Stardust: 15 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, flechette pistol, flechette ammunition (x45), Wirecannon Arm, Runner''s Replacement (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x50), canteen (x2), medical kit, orange tarp, flint bar, flashlight Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Jace sighed as the heat faded. His muscles were very relaxed. For a moment, he was acutely aware of the prosthetic arm and the ramshackle cosmetic feet. But that feeling quickly faded. ¡°What¡¯s a Skill Evolution? I saw that on my information screen before.¡± Oliver swam around in the air, obviously quite excited. ¡°Well, it is a unique Boon from a Quest. They alter the Skill. They are a prefix. Only one Evolution can apply at a time. But it can be applied to any Rank of Skill.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Good to know. Oh, crap. One more thing.¡± He went to the survival kit and pulled out the knife. He cut off the glove on his prosthetic arm from the wrist-down so the palm-grapnel was not covered. He looked around at the small bunker. ¡°I think I¡¯m ready to move on. I feel ready.¡± He said the last as he stared at the back of his hand where the symbol for Dark Matter slowly moved in a tumbling cascade, a dark dance of tumultuous shapes. Cosmic Power in the palm of my hand. This is ridiculous and awesome. Oliver smiled and his deep voice once more was uncharacteristically enthusiastic. ¡°Let us go! Oh. And¡­this sounds weird. I would like you to call me Ollie.¡± Jace smiled, ¡°Alright, Ollie. Let¡¯s pack up.¡± He set to gathering up everything he could in the duffel bag. Spare metal bits and components from the supply closet to do repairs on his feet if needed. The food. He poured all the water he could fit into the temperature-controlled messenger bag. And, of course, he grabbed his flechette pistol and the ammunition. There were several well-concealed pockets in the pants, and he shoved the ammunition and the makeshift weapon into one. Going to the decontamination shower, he pulled the door aside and walked down the tunnel. The same tunnel he had dragged himself down, injured, and exhausted, only a week prior. Now, he climbed up the ladder with a confidence that he had not felt in a long, long time. 2 levels down. 98 to go. And then, 100 of an Advanced Class. I¡¯m going to bring you back, Chroma. I promise.
Quinn looked down at the small display mounted to her wrist. It had been a single day since she passed her Trial of Ascension, and she looked past the wrist-mounted screen and at the back of her hand. A radiant sun that shifted color; bright orange, gold-yellow, and a deep red all spun slowly in place marking her Cosmic Power selection. Her fingernails also glowed with the same soft glow - an indicator of her being a Signer for the Star Council. Greg had split off and headed back to Earth. As he put it, ¡°I want to see if I can get paid for my last job. I might come and join you later.¡± Mizarion walked next to her, chewing on a pineapple - not bothering to take off the rough exterior. ¡°This is so juicy! I love the crunchy exterior. You Earthlings have a lot of tasty food.¡± Quinn nodded and looked at the Ascendant. ¡°Thanks for the escort. And you¡¯re not supposed to eat the husk.¡±Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. ¡°Hey, no problem! I wanted you to get to faction HQ as soon as possible. And, well, you¡¯re part of us now! Not fully fledged, but good enough. Also, I like the crust more than the interior.¡± Quinn had learned that most, not all, but most people became a Signer for the faction that matched their Cosmic Power. Sticking with an Ascendant who could keep her safe seemed like the wisest option, especially once she learned how valuable her Class was. She looked over her information sheet again. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Quinn Cipher (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Star [Broker 1.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Broker''s Instinct (Rank 1), Broker''s Contract (Rank 1), Broker''s Fee (Rank 1) Stardust: 50 Equipment: Broker''s interface, Broker''s starting gear, Webwalker Implants, Cybereyes Mk. 3, Cybermind Mk. 4 Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> She dismissed the screen from her vision and looked over at Valerie, her Wayfinder, who was perched on her shoulder. ¡°The whole point of my Class is trade of information and physical goods, right? Not just data?¡± ¡°Correct,¡± The bird chirped with a melodic, feminine voice. ¡°Your three skills help you find useful sources of information or goods to trade. You can make binding contracts with other Aspirants, and whenever you do a trade, you acquire a bit of Stardust.¡± She preened herself a bit, removing a spectral feather that drifted into nothingness. ¡°It¡¯s a safe way to work towards Ascendant.¡± ¡°And¡± Mizarion added. ¡°We can never have too many merchants in The Eternal City. Especially in the Star Council. Most end up going with the Nebula Alliance.¡± That was the allure that really made Quinn choose this faction. In the Nebula Alliance, she could have more opportunity for rapid advancement, but they were also a bit cutthroat in the way they did business. Competitors often sabotaged or killed others to get an edge in the market. And she did not want any of that. A safe, simple life, protected by one of the more prominent factions seemed like the perfect life to her. It would let her use her information gathering and Webwalking talents, since The Cosmic System had something akin to the Webnet. ¡°We¡¯re here,¡± Mizarion said as he ate the rest of the pineapple - stem and all. He turned to face a building, and Quinn craned her head back to look up. It was a colossal skyscraper that went up thousands of feet. The exterior was burnished bronze with gold and orange highlights depicting the various stages of a star¡¯s life cycle. Mizarion led the way inside, and Quinn followed right behind him. They walked into a large lobby, and a pleasant looking woman stared out at the two from behind a desk. ¡°Mizarion. Did you have a fun time?¡± She had dark, midnight black hair that was held up in a bun. She had glasses on that masked her eyes, and her skin was a deep, calming green like a verdant forest. ¡°I did,¡± he replied with a flourishing bow before he put his hand on Quinn¡¯s shoulder and gently patted her. ¡°This is Quinn Cipher. She¡¯s Signed for us!¡± ¡°I can tell,¡± the woman replied. As she stood up, Quinn felt a sense of admiration. From her waist down, a spider¡¯s body replaced the female form. ¡°I am Casey Selsam. Concierge for the Star Council. Tier 6 Ascendant. What Class did you choose?¡± ¡°Broker,¡± Quinn stated proudly. ¡°Perfect!¡± The woman clapped her hands. ¡°We do not have many trade-oriented Classes amongst our faction - whether Ascendant or Signer. Well, we have a wonderful safe place to set you up-¡± ¡°Actually,¡± Quinn interrupted. ¡°I had an idea for that. Put me somewhere that can be protected by the Star Council, but open enough that those not affiliated with the faction would want to visit. More opportunity for trades.¡± ¡°Hmm.¡± Casey looked at Mizarion, ¡°Your thoughts?¡± ¡°Unless Star Dad wants me to do something? I¡¯m fine babysitting for a bit. Earth has a ton of neat foods to try out. I¡¯m sure Quinn here can tell me the good ones.¡± Casey¡¯s eyebrow twitched behind the glasses, ¡°You know he does not like that name. Use his full name.¡± Mizarion chuckled, ¡°Nope. Come on, Quinn. I know the perfect place.¡±
Jace emerged from the bunker and into a bright, shining sun. He had to shield his eyes as he adjusted to the overwhelming light. After blinking rapidly for a few seconds, he could make out the landscape with clarity. The grasslands were not as vibrant as they were during the night; they were still striking, only less-so. Deep, rolling green fields with no trace of the flowers from when he first arrived. They must be night blooms, he thought. He did not know much about flowers, but he could have sworn he had heard of flowers that only bloom at night back in the orphanage. Overhead, murky grey skies, and a few, scattered black clouds were all that he could make out. ¡°There¡¯s no main sequence star,¡± Ollie commented as he floated around Jace. ¡°Like your sun in the Sol system that Earth orbits. Instead, it is a trinary system - three stars. One green, one white, and one deep orange. You would be able to see them - but we have overcast weather from rain the past two days.¡± Jace nodded and drew the slim sword with his left hand. He quickly traced the pattern he had practiced and manifested the Dark Matter Shield (Rank 1) and Dark Matter Blade (Rank 1). Barely visible, light purple surrounded his prosthetic arm before it elongated into the heater shield shape. His blade ignited with deeper, purple energy - an indicator that to others it was now invisible. If a predator charges me, I can just hold my ground and let it impale itself. He took a few practice swings before glancing at the shield. I should have this at Rank 2. Those predators had large mouths. He moved the prosthetic fingers in the pattern he had memorized, and the shield activated at (Rank 2), altering form until it covered his whole body from ankle to torso; still a shield, but one that towered at nearly his full height. It was almost non-existent weight wise, and he moved it around his body as he got used to how he would have to shift his body to swing while wielding it. I could use this thing to bludgeon things also. ¡°Practicing?¡± Ollie asked as he rose up higher to keep a watch. Jace nodded and practiced a few swings with the blade, alternating between swinging and hiding behind the shield. The movement felt natural and second nature, as if he had been using a sword and shield his whole life. ¡°Yeah, I think this will do.¡± Thankfully, only manifesting the Skills themselves cost any amount of his energy, and he only felt slightly winded - as if he had just jogged a few hundred feet. ¡°Let¡¯s get going.¡± He trudged over the landscape, staying quiet as to not attract any predators with his voice. Ollie hovered above him at his maximum tether range of ten feet, scanning the horizon line for any trace of the creatures. ¡°They¡¯re nocturnal hunters,¡± Ollie muttered. ¡°But I queried the System last night about this planet¡¯s remaining threats. The Vyrknadine you beat is the apex predator and only hunts at night, lone wolf style. They are the top dogs. Lower down the food chain, you have another predator called a Brontasp which is active during the day and hunts in packs. Then, you have a prey type animal called a Neeshk. They burrow.¡± Jace nodded and kept his eyes peeled for any movement amongst the gently rolling grass. The breeze brought a clean scent to him - fresh fallen rain. It was something he was not used to smelling, as the rain that fell back on Earth was laden with chemicals from the toxic smoke and smog. For the hours that passed as the skies brightened before darkening once more, he felt quite at ease despite the possible threat of danger. As night began to descend, and he saw the moons coming, he began to think about where he would stay for shelter. I need to find somewhere defensible. I don¡¯t have a shovel, so I can¡¯t dig a hole and cover it with the tarp. Ideally a cave. An abandoned one. ¡°Any thoughts?¡± he asked, breaking the silence. Ollie floated down to him and shook his head, ¡°Not sure what you mean.¡± ¡°About where to stay,¡± Jace softly said. ¡°I can¡¯t just sleep in a field.¡± Ollie floated back up and spun in a slow, lazy circle before coming back down. ¡°There is a slight indent in the grassland about two-hundred feet ahead. That way.¡± He pointed and Jace followed the direction, coming upon a small dell. At the center was a grass-covered, overgrown cave. Small enough for him to duck and crawl into. ¡°Convenient,¡± he muttered. ¡°Mind scouting?¡± Ollie saluted and flew to the edge of the tether range of ten feet from Jace¡¯s position. The latter walked forward as the spectral river otter flew down the burrow before re-emerging. ¡°It¡¯s empty and pretty shallow.¡± Jace crouched down and crawled into the cramped tunnel. His sight hue-shifted to purple as the dark vision activated, and he could make out an abandoned nest of some dried grasses. Droppings, as well - but those were desiccated and ancient. ¡°Definitely abandoned,¡± he muttered as he pulled the satchel from his back, sheathed the sword, and dismissed the shield. He pulled out the orange tarp and covered the entrance - leaving a small hole at the top for his breath to escape. Digging deeper into the burrow, he shoved dirt up along the edges of the tarp, and finally pushed his bag up against it. It¡¯s not the best, but it¡¯s something. Having a sheet of metal to put over would make me feel a lot safer. He broke open and consumed a double portion of ration - having skipped a meal that day - and laid down, shutting his eyes as Ollie disappeared with a pop. ? Chapter 13 – Battle and a Broker
Jace was woken up by the sound of sniffing. He closed his eyes once more and focused his senses on hearing alone. The soft breathing of a Vyrknadine was somewhere outside the burrow. Fifteen feet from it - and getting closer. At least I¡¯m more prepared now, he thought. But this thing probably hunts the prey animals while they''re sleeping in these burrows. That means it can fight in an enclosed space way better than I could. He slowly sat up and drew the sword in his left hand, quickly making the symbols to manifest his Dark Matter Blade and Shield in the other, both at (Rank 1). The hue blazed around his sword, and the smaller heater shield appeared on his magitech arm. He put the tip of his blade against the center of the tarp and waited. In through the nose, out through the mouth. He steadied his breath and his racing heart. Wait until it¡¯s just on the other side and sniff. Then¡­stab. Fighting while he could not move in this cramped space was a death sentence. But, if he did some damage and the predator recoiled backward, he could get out and regain his maneuverability. The snuffling noise came closer, and he could see the tarp begin to bulge inward. A screen popped up in the corner of his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay 10 Vyrknadine.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Legendary (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> He smirked, Xera watching out for me. All right. One out of ten, coming up. He sat with bated, held breath as the tarp slowly pushed in more. Then, the tarp shifted and began to fall. Now! He jabbed the blade forward and felt it sink into the creature. There was a loud yelp followed by a sharp whine, and then he felt his sword yanked forward. Holding firm on the grip, he pulled it back and saw a small amount of green blood spurt against the tarp. Jace ripped it away and emerged from the burrow as he brought the shield to bear in front of him. The apex predator snarled as the large hole in the center of its snout slowly sealed, and it paced around the edge of the dell. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2), Jace thought. The invisible-to-the-creature barrier grew to the tower shield height, and he imposed it between him and the creature. It snarled and lunged forward. Jace braced himself as the animal slammed into the barricade. He was pushed back several feet, and his feet slid through the dirt. One of the braces around the prosthetic foot snapped. Damnit! He went to one knee as the creature tried to claw at him, trying to rip him apart but only meeting the invisible barrier. Ollie appeared with a pop and looked at the situation unfolding, ¡°Wow. That is inconvenient.¡± ¡°No shit!¡± Jace shouted back. He stabbed around the edge of the shield, and the blade sank deep into the eyes on the left side of the creature. It began to back away, and Jace dismissed the shield as he pointed his right palm and fingered the grapnel trigger. The anchor projectile launched out like a gunshot and implanted into the creature¡¯s skull, just to the right of its jaws. It let out a roar of pain as it recoiled from the injury. Jace tapped the button to retract the cord, and he jumped - letting it pull him towards the creature. Instinctively, driven on by the Swordmage Stance Skill, he was sure, he angled the blade for a thrust. The predator whipped sideways and Jace was flung into an arc around the monster, swinging around it as his full weight pulled against the still-tethered hook. The flesh healed around the cable, and he was tied to the creature as the magitech inside the prosthetic tried desperately to recall the grapnel. Fine then. Let¡¯s see if you like this! Jace sheathed the blade and reached into his pocket, pulling out the flechette pistol and gripping the handhold in his teeth. He dug around in the next pocket, pulled one of the ammunition cartridges, dumped it into the receptacle on top, and then cranked the charge handle. The creature stopped its spin and Jace tumbled to the ground before the cord retracted and pulled him toward the creature. It snarled and began to open its mouth to bite down on him. He brought the pistol to his hand, pointed it down the open maw, and pulled the trigger. Bang! The tiny, fin-stabilized projectiles launched out and down the maw, ripping through flesh and sinew. The creature roared and backed away. In a flash, Jace pocketed the pistol, drew his sword, and stabbed it right between the eyes as the cord finished retracting. His palm rested on the right side of the creature¡¯s skull, and he could feel tension inside the arm as it tried to pull the cord back. His blade was planted firmly into the center of the creature¡¯s skull, and it collapsed to the ground. He thumbed the release, and the grapnel withdrew its hooks before returning to the socket. The green blood sloughed off as it met some magical barrier to prevent foreign substances from entering the grapnel-hole. ¡°Good job,¡± Ollie said as he floated over. Jace nodded and sat down, pulled off his boot, and re-attached the foot prosthetic. ¡°I really need something grafted like my arm,¡± he muttered. ¡°Do you want this thing as Stardust?¡± Ollie asked. ¡°What else could we use it for?¡± Jace asked as he pulled on his boot. ¡°Well, you can harvest it. That will take time and be some messy work, but in raw materials it could be worth more Stardust if you found a merchant who wanted to buy it. But there is a lot of material here, and you do not have a means to transport it.¡± ¡°Fair point,¡± Jace replied as he looked over the carcass of the animal. It was easily twelve feet long from snout to tail, and three feet wide at its widest point. ¡°Dust it.¡± Ollie flew over it and tapped the hide. The animal turned into liquid starlight before Ollie sucked it up. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 500.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°That¡¯s enough for another level, right?¡± ¡°Yup. 500 Stardust for 1 level, in the 1 - 25 range. After that it goes up to 1,000 per level from 26 - 50. I can show you the chart if you want.¡± ¡°Maybe later.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Let¡¯s use it then. I want that Dark Matter Shield next Rank.¡± Ollie flew over Jace and sprinkled the Stardust on his head. He felt a rush of warmth in his torso again and felt very relaxed. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 3.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 1), Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3), Swordmage Stance (Rank 1) Stardust: 15 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, flechette pistol, flechette ammunition (x40), Wirecannon Arm, Runner''s Replacement (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x48), canteen (x2), medical kit, orange tarp (damaged), flint bar, flashlight Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Can I hit things while the Rank 3 Dark Matter Shield is active?¡± Ollie nodded and floated in front of Jace. ¡°Yup! It is one of the best defensive Skills out there. No one knows you are protected, and you can attack them back once they get surprised by their blow not hitting.¡±Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. But it costs me some energy every time I get hit, Jace recalled from the Rank 3 description. ¡°Is there a limit to Skill Ranks?¡± ¡°Yes. Some Skills have varying limitations on their Rank. Evolutions let you keep expanding on the single Skill, but those are reliant on Boons from completing Quests.¡± Ollie swam around Jace before going up to the maximum height he could. ¡°Hmm, there is not much movement out here. Even the wind is quieted down.¡± Jace looked around and took note of what Ollie observed. The grassland was still. Not static, there was movement, but it was calm with no breeze. ¡°Is that cause for alarm?¡± ¡°No. Just weird,¡± Ollie muttered. He frowned, then he waved his paws, and a screen appeared in the sky in front of him. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay 10 Vyrknadine.] [Current Progress: 1/10.] [Time Limit: NA.] [Reward: Legendary (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Well, look at that,¡± Ollie said as he floated down. ¡°Looks like Xera is keeping an eye on your logs.¡± ¡°How does my killing these predators¡­balance this Cosmic System?¡± Jace looked at Ollie, ¡°It doesn¡¯t make much sense.¡± ¡°Well, in ecosystems if there are too many predators, then they can hunt the prey to extinction. I am guessing that she has identified that Velenar Prime has an overpopulation problem - at least where we are.¡± He waved his paw, and a map of the world appeared. Spinning it so that their location was centered, he tapped the floating sphere, and a border appeared around their dot. ¡°Looks like she wants us to stay within the defined region for the Quest.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°You said they¡¯re nighttime predators?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± ¡°Then we should wait until early morning and see if we can track them back to a den. You said they¡¯re lone wolves when it comes to hunting. But, if they¡¯re like the wolves I read about, they can have packs.¡± Ollie went back up and looked around, ¡°I am not seeing anything in the grasslands surrounding us.¡± Jace went around the dell and examined the ground. He found tracks that the soil held firmly. ¡°How long will tracks last in this dirt?¡± ¡°Until it rains,¡± Ollie replied as he flew down. ¡°Why not track them down now?¡± ¡°I want to fight them when they¡¯re tired,¡± Jace replied. ¡°And when I¡¯m fully rested up.¡± He turned back to the small combat area and kicked dirt over the bloody areas before retreating into the den and putting up the tarp again. ¡°Can you be like an alarm clock?¡± ¡°Sadly, no. I can only manifest while you¡¯re conscious.¡± Jace nodded and moved the tarp slightly so that his eyes would be in the path of incoming light. He set his head on the dirt and shut his eyes.
Quinn smiled as a customer entered her shop. It was a small shop just off the Cosmic Corridor - prime real estate. She shared the space with three other merchant-style Class Aspirants, and Mizarion who was the only Ascendant but was intimidating enough muscle that no one tried anything foolish. ¡°Welcome to The Star Market. What are you looking for?¡± Quinn asked as she leaned on the counter. ¡°Information,¡± the calm, stern, feminine voice replied. Quinn could not tell what she looked like as she was covered from head to foot in armor. She recognized the exact model, in fact. General Logistics Mk. 5. She must be a heavy hitter for them if she has that type of experimental tech, Quinn thought. The woman¡¯s left hand had a glowing symbol marking their Cosmic Power - Nebula. She exuded a presence that screamed ¡®don¡¯t screw with me,¡¯ and Quinn felt fear tingling down her spine. ¡°What type of information? People, places, or things?¡± Quinn asked as she kept her customer service smile put on. ¡°I¡¯m looking for someone. An Aspirant. From Earth.¡± ¡°I need a bit more than that to go off of,¡± Quinn replied as she glanced at Mizarion who was sitting in the corner chewing on a mango. Better be ready if this person tries something funny, Quinn thought. ¡°Description, name, or something else to go off of, please.¡± The Nebula-power woman nodded and produced a small monitor. She slid it over to Quinn, and Quinn recoiled slightly at the image. ¡°A courier named Jace Seren.¡± He must have been transporting something important, Quinn thought, recalling the man she talked with in that giant conference room briefly. ¡°Well, it may take a few days to find his location.¡± ¡°That¡¯s fine.¡± The woman pulled out several bars of gold and platinum. Mizarion came over and picked one of the platinum bars up, inspecting it before looking at Quinn and nodding. Quinn returned the woman¡¯s gaze. Or, what she imagined was their silent gaze, as she could not tell any facial expression - let alone where the armored figure was looking. ¡°This will do.¡± Broker¡¯s Contract. She willed the Skill to activate, and a floating, gold panel appeared in between the two Aspirants. Quinn filled in some information before gesturing for the contract to flip around for the woman to read. ¡°Standard contract. You give us half the payment up front, give us three days, and if we cannot produce your information then we return the payment.¡± The woman nodded and waved her hand across the screen, signing it. ¡°I¡¯ll be back,¡± she stated as she picked up the gold bar and walked out. Broker¡¯s Fee, Quinn thought as her Wayfinder Valerie flitted down from the ceiling. A small amount of Stardust spontaneously generated in front of Quinn and flew up into her companion. Quinn felt her legs shake slightly, but she gripped the countertop to stay standing. Let¡¯s see how much I have. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Quinn Cipher (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Star [Broker 1.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Broker''s Instinct (Rank 1), Broker''s Contract (Rank 1), Broker''s Fee (Rank 1) Stardust: 450 Equipment: Broker''s interface, Broker''s starting gear, Webwalker Implants, Cybereyes Mk. 3, Cybermind Mk. 4 Boons: Common (Secret Cache) <<<<<>>>>> Mizarion leaned on the counter, ¡°You have a look on your face. What¡¯s up?¡± ¡°I met this Jace guy.¡± Quinn tapped the countertop with her fingers, drumming them along in a consistent rhythm that reminded her of the consistent thump of the machinery near where she used to sleep. ¡°He seemed like a good guy. Courier. Another street kid. I wonder¡­what was he carrying?¡± Mizarion shrugged, ¡°Well, you better get to investigating.¡± ¡°Right.¡± Quinn looked up at Valerie, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s do this.¡± The Wayfinder fluttered down and landed on her shoulder. ¡°Hold on!¡± the bird chirped. Quinn took a deep breath and slumped back into the chair behind the counter. Her mind left her body and traveled into The Cosmic System through Valerie. She traveled through the Starlit Sea where she chose her Cosmic Power and Class and passed through that. Into the levels of The Cosmic System that most Aspirants and Ascendants could not access. She found herself standing in a large corridor. The information hub, she thought. Only merchant-styled or information-oriented Classes could access the System like this, doing it themselves through their Wayfinder, rather than the companion doing the work themself. Valerie lifted off her shoulder and sped off to search through various data logs. Quinn raised her hands, and several screens appeared in the space that, to her senses, was a plain, grey office building. She tapped through several screens trying to find any information on Jace she could. She found nothing on Jace Seren. Even if he died, there should be a record of him. She began cross-referencing Aspirants from Earth along with his physical description. Using that, she found an Aspirant named Flicker. A pseudonym? Interesting. Well, assuming this is Jace, he¡¯s alive¡­so he passed the Aspirant Trial. She dug deeper into Flicker¡¯s file and came across a large letter X in black across everything. All information was blocked except a single video. What the hell? Valerie flitted over and landed on her shoulder. ¡°Oh, wow. X is blocking access. This Flicker guy must be something else. Here, let me.¡± The bird raised her wing, and the video played. It was heavily edited - blurring the face until it was so pixelated it could never be unscrambled. But Quinn saw the metal feet and knew it was Jace - the model matched up with what he had shown her. The two watched as he fought against a monstrous creature. Quinn winced at the sound of his arm bitten off and the accompanying screams of pain. The creature he was facing died and the video cut to black. ¡°Lots of questions,¡± Quinn muttered. ¡°Why can¡¯t we learn his Cosmic Power or Tier? I thought that was information any Wayfinder could learn?¡± ¡°X is blocking access.¡± ¡°Who is X?¡± ¡°An admin. Tech support. Archmage. Magitech engineer. I do not know what she really is. She is above Wayfinders with clearance in The Cosmic System.¡± The bird looked up at Quinn and cocked its head sideways, ¡°I¡¯ve never met her myself.¡± Quinn replayed the video and slowed it down as Jace lifted the bag and shoved it into the creature¡¯s mouth. She saw the sloshing goop and saw how it blew back on him. Oh. That¡¯s what he was carrying. Also explains why General Logistics wants it. Shit. She was bound by contract to share this information with her client. ¡°Flicker is Jace. Can we warn him? Tell him that someone is hunting him for what he was transporting?¡± ¡°Nothing in the contract says we can¡¯t.¡± Quinn nodded, ¡°Do that, please.¡± ¡°Just have to hope that your sleep schedule matches up to his¡­wherever he is. Or, that his Wayfinder is in The System proper when I am. Oliver, I think, is his name. I have met him twice before. Both times were¡­interesting. He is a bit rough around the edges, but a decent enough guy, I think.¡± I¡¯ll set my brainware to half-circadian cycling. It would dull her brainpower by approximately 50%, but effectively put her into a constant state of half-sleep. She could do simple tasks around The Star Market, and Valerie could stay in the Starlit Sea to try and talk to Jace¡¯s Wayfinder. We need to warn him that some big muscle is coming his way. But another thought went through her head. One that made her very, very afraid. There¡¯s someone or something behind the scenes that has way more control than any Ascendant could. ? Chapter 14 – A hunter must hunt
The faint light of morning caressed Jace¡¯s face and he woke up. He pushed his way out of the hovel and stretched in the small dell, looking around for any signs of danger. Thankfully, his night had been without incident after the one predator came by. They must really range out far from each other, he thought. He scarfed down a meal of the packaged rations and took some sips of the chilled water from his messenger bag. After putting everything into the larger duffel, he looped it around his shoulder and began following the faint trail of large, clawed footfalls of the creature that he had slain. The grey goo in the soil ensured that the indentation stayed quite visible, and even though he had no tracking experience, the trail was quite easy to follow. Pop. Ollie appeared next to him and floated around, ¡°Morning. Bad news.¡± ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Well, a Wayfinder named Valerie wanted to talk to me. She is assigned to Quinn Cipher.¡± Jace smiled and nodded as he trudged along, ¡°I know her. We met for a few minutes. Another street kid.¡± ¡°Yeah, well, she has set up a shop right along The Cosmic Corridor and joined the Star Council. But that is not the important part that is bad news. Someone from Earth is tracking you down.¡± ¡°Let me guess. They want whatever I was transporting.¡± Ollie nodded but looked at Jace with a quizzical expression, ¡°How¡¯d you know?¡± Jace peered at the ground as the trail disappeared. Looking around, he saw a wet patch. ¡°Damnit, I lost it.¡± Ollie flew up and pointed, ¡°That way. They continue over there.¡± Jace followed the directions and responded to the question, ¡°I was transporting something for General Logistics. I was one of the best covert couriers in the city. I¡¯d bet that grey goop was some experimental prototype that a lot of companies were after.¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°Quinn passed along as much. Something called Cyberconnect Integration Fluid, or CIF. It is supposed to make a prosthetic fueled by the user''s biological systems, instead of being reliant on external power sources. It was the foundation for more intensive cybernetic implantation. A milestone of sorts in Earth¡¯s technology.¡± ¡°Why did it harden and kill the one that bit down on it?¡± ¡°It was not designed for non-humans. Instead of being absorbed by the body through the skin, it hardened and became inert.¡± ¡°I wonder if my body absorbed some,¡± Jace mused. ¡°It was on my arm and had hardened but vanished once I was injected with the serum.¡± It does feel like¡­my arm, he thought as he ran his fingers along the magitech prosthetic. A little bit. Ollie shrugged, ¡°Possible. We would need a medically inclined Class to determine for sure.¡± He scratched his chin, ¡°Why didn¡¯t these companies just hire an armored convoy?¡± ¡°Those are easier to track and heist,¡± Jace replied. ¡°A single street kid though? One who no one would ever suspect? Much safer. Plus, I had good rep.¡± Jace glanced around for any predators before refocusing on the trail. ¡°What¡¯s coming after me?¡± ¡°A big hitter. Nebula Cosmic Path, Tier 1. In a heavy suit of armor from what Valerie said.¡± Jace clicked his tongue and frowned, ¡°I don¡¯t know if a sword can get past modern Earth armor.¡± ¡°Maybe consider spending your next level choice on a new Skill. Something that will let you deal with armored opponents.¡± ¡°A wise suggestion,¡± Jace agreed. The grasslands ended and the ground maintained its consistency. ¡°Why doesn¡¯t it keep growing out? The ground is the same.¡± ¡°Not quite,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°It¡¯s mostly the weird soil with not much dirt.¡± ¡°What happened on this world?¡± ¡°The people here created the equivalent of magitech nanites that did everything for them. Once the world was connected to The Cosmic System, someone decided it would be smart to give the nanites a hive mind. This gunk is their remnants.¡± Jace began trudging across the encrusted landscape. Thanks to the ground staying the same consistency, and due to the lack of grass and plants, the trail was quite easy to follow. A few hours passed in silence. Jace spent the time thinking about how he would approach a den of these Vyrknadines sleeping. A good stab to the skull seemed to put them down, and he knew that if he got under them, he could stab upward into the heart as Ollie told him in the first encounter. If they live in a den or something like it, then I can find a choke point and force them to come to me one at a time. They¡¯re predators, so they¡¯ll protect their home and be aggressive. If I make my presence known, then I can try that method. It was around mid-day when he took a breather to eat another one of the pouch meals. He took in the bleak landscape and felt a sense of exposure. I¡¯m out here in the open with no cover. It¡¯s not like the grassland where I could get onto the ground and hide. It made him feel vulnerable, having lived amongst skyscrapers his whole life and not being in such a wide, open space. He felt a ball of anxiety in his chest. He picked up his gear and pushed forward at a faster pace, speed-walking along the tracks until the land began to slowly slant upward. There was not a mountain range, and when he asked Ollie to pull up the world-view map, he was able to zoom in and rotate it to make a topographical map. ¡°We¡¯re getting up to a ridgeline,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°Then there¡¯s a bit of a crater.¡± ¡°A bit?¡± Jace replied. ¡°It looks like it''s ten miles across.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve seen bigger,¡± Ollie smugly said. ¡°It was made on my Aspirant that time, but I saw bigger.¡± He shook his head, ¡°He had such promise. I told him not to touch that metal sphere in the weapons factory, but no, he did not listen to me.¡± Jace grimaced, realizing that Ollie must have seen the deaths of hundreds of people he had grown attached to. Well, at the start, at least. The way the otter had greeted him led Jace to believe that his Wayfinder had lost all hope in any Aspirant he was assigned passing their Trial. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he softly said. ¡°Don¡¯t be,¡± Ollie replied with a grin. ¡°You have gotten further than any I¡¯ve been assigned. Already that puts you near the top of my favorite people list.¡± ¡°Who is above me?¡± ¡°Xera. And a few Wayfinders.¡± Jace smirked, ¡°Do you have a crush on one of them?¡± Ollie put on quite the bashful expression - which was odd, because Jace did not know that otters were capable of that level of facial expression. ¡°Well¡­there is one. But I do not want to talk about her behind her back.¡± Jace nodded as he crested the ridge and took a deep breath. Before him lay a crater that was exceptionally large. ¡°What caused¡­this?¡± ¡°A last-ditch effort,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°An attempt to shut down the magitech nanite swarms by taking out the center of the ¡®hive mind.¡¯ It worked, and that is why you have all this crusted goop everywhere.¡± Jace looked down at the large bowl and spotted the tracks going down further. He carefully descended, ensuring that he did not lose his footing. The descent to the bottom of the bowl took him into the early evening, and as the three suns passed overhead and began to hit the horizon line, his vision shifted to the purple hue. The bottom of the crater was filled with water. A silvery muck of water. All around he saw ancient tunnels - a sewage system or maintenance corridor at one point, once buried under the ground. ¡°This whole place could be their den,¡± he muttered as he drew his sword and activated the (Rank 3) Dark Matter Shield, and the (Rank 1) Dark Matter Blade. The shield formed a barrier around his body. A skin-tight coating of purple colors that shifted across the spectrum of hues. He kept following the tracks and noted that there were varied sizes of footprints around the pool. This is where they sleep for sure. A pack of these predators, and then they go out in different directions to hunt. He walked into the tunnel and whispered, ¡°I¡¯m not emitting light, right?¡± ¡°Nope. I can also turn mine off,¡± Ollie replied. His starlight faded and he became naught but a silvery outline of a river otter, as if threads in that shape were cascading through the air. Jace kept walking forward, trying his best to set his feet down gently. The soft crunch of the grey goo slowly faded and became light taps of his metal-booted feet on concrete. He began to see signs of detritus in the five-foot-wide and slightly taller tunnel. Tracked-in goop, bones, other inedible cartilage, and dried, spattered blood. They don¡¯t just eat on location. They bring back food. Which probably means they¡¯re feeding their young. He did not want to kill defenseless pups or their mothers - or fathers if that is how this species worked - but his survival came first. And this Legendary Boon would most definitely help his survival. The rarest type of Boon, from what Ollie had told him while traveling. It could make a massive difference to Jace¡¯s survivability. Jace pulled out his flechette pistol and loaded it. After a quick spin of the charge handle, he stowed it in his pocket. Just in ca- A deep growl echoed up from the tunnel, beyond a bend about fifty feet away. Jace held his sword tip-forward. He planted his feet and took a deep breath. ¡°Ahhh!¡± he shouted down the tunnel, trying to draw attention of the creatures he now hunted. The largest Vyrknadine he had ever seen charged around the corner and ran at full tilt towards him. Jace made sure to angle his ankles so that the makeshift prosthetic attachments on his feet would not snap, and instead, he would be pushed back along the ground. As long as he could hold his arms steady when the impact hit. The creature charged into Jace and impacted the barrier with a loud but dull thud as the creature dazed itself. He felt no recoil as the shield took the full force of the blow, and he used the opportunity to stab into the creature¡¯s brain. It collapsed as the sword pierced through the skull and into the vital organ. Just to be sure of its death, Jace went to its side, found a spot between the chitin, and stabbed down before wrenching his sword around. I must¡¯ve hit the heart somewhere in there. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay 10 Vyrknadine.]Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. [Current Progress: 2/10.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Legendary (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace felt his knees shake and he leaned against the wall, taking deep breaths. It felt like he had run a mile at a full sprint. His hands were shaking, and he slid down to his knee. ¡°That¡­hit on the barrier¡­lots of energy¡­¡± Ollie floated behind Jace, ¡°Turn around, swap to Rank 2.¡± Jace groaned and turned as he forced himself to stand. At the tunnel entrance he had come from, another two of the creatures were standing next to each other, snarling, and snapping their multi-hinged maws. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2), he thought. The barrier surrounding him vanished and was replaced by the tower shield. He placed it in between himself and the creatures and planted his feet once more as they charged. This time, however, he was able to shove his heels against the slain creature behind himself so he would not be pushed back. These smaller predators would not have the same force as the big one, so he was sure he could stay firm, have them bounce off the invisible shield, and then follow up with quick stabs. The one on the left took the lead from its peer and slammed into the shield. Jace felt the impact shake up his prosthetic arm, but he held firm. The pressure on his calves was intense, and he could feel the prosthetic attachments beginning to buckle. He flipped the shield to the side - the creature¡¯s head going the same direction as it was redirected - and he stabbed into the side of its head. The creature went limp. The second one got next to him before he could bring the shield to bear, and it tried to chomp down on him. He turned his body, slammed his prosthetic arm¡¯s palm into the side of its head, and thumbed the fire trigger. The grapnel shot into the creature¡¯s skull before exiting the other side and it, too, went limp. He retracted the line. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay 10 Vyrknadine.] [Current Progress: 4/10.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Legendary (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> Thankfully, these two Skills at their currently manifest Rank did not cost Jace any energy, and he felt a giddy rush of adrenaline just like when he was chased. He laughed aloud, reveling in this newfound strength. The magitech super soldier serum, Cosmic Power, a Class¡­it all was a game changer. ¡°Bring it on!¡± he shouted. ¡°Come on! I¡¯m in here!¡± ¡°Behind you!¡± Ollie shouted. Jace turned and brought his shield to bear as another of the Vyrknadine had snuck up behind him. He was able to interpose the tower shield, but he was pinned on his back between gnashing teeth and a hard place. He got a good, long look at the creature¡¯s maw as it tried to bite through the invisible shield. Jace could only imagine the frustration this creature must have felt, seeing a juicy bit of prey, only to find some invisible obstacle. This one was around the same size as the two he had slain. He tilted the shield to the side and pushed his knees against it, bucking the creature up and off him. The Vyrknadine landed and regained its footing. ¡°From the other side, too!¡± Ollie yelled. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3). Jace saw the barrier pop into place around him and glanced back towards the tunnel entrance. Another two were over there. Terrific. Three on one. He tossed the sword to his right hand and pulled the flechette pistol from his pocket. The creature he had initially faced jumped at him, and he held up his hand, watching with delight as the shield followed his movement. The creature began to chomp down, and he pulled the trigger. Bang! Fthft! The scattergun ripped through the soft palette of the creature¡¯s maw. The spiked, metal rounds ripped up into the brain cavity before pinging around, shredding brain matter. The creature dropped. Jace turned to the other two who were holding their distance. Perfect. Stay there for six seconds. He put the sword between his teeth, reloaded once more, and cranked the charge handle. He re-equipped his sword and waited as the two creatures cautiously approached. Their chitinous shells were oscillating, and that¡¯s when Jace saw the grey goop coating them both. ¡°Ollie? Is that anything to be concerned about?¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°It¡¯ll just make them a bit harder to injure.¡± The otter turned in the air to keep an eye on Jace¡¯s back. The pair of beasts lunged forward. Jace held the invisible blade out towards one of them, and the scattergun at the other. They both reached him at the same time, and the one on his left had its brain blown apart just like the one that Jace had just dispatched. The one on the right, however, did not impale itself on the blade as Jace expected. The tip of the sword impacted the skull - just like the other ones - but the weapon slipped without making good contact as the goop coating the creature¡¯s shells gave it a slick quality. It lunged into his guard and chomped down on his arm. The shield took the full blow, but Jace felt himself getting tired as exhaustion set in from the energy drain. He pocketed the pistol, swapped the sword to his left hand, and stabbed into the Vyrknadine¡¯s eye. It plunged deep into the brain cavity, and he shoved it from his arm as it went limp. ¡°Any behind me?¡± Jace huffed out in between recovery breaths. ¡°Nope. Clear behind.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay 10 Vyrknadine.] [Current Progress: 7/10.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Legendary (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Dust them,¡± Jace muttered as he sat down on the floor of the tunnel. ¡°Please.¡± Ollie nodded and gave a small thumbs up with his little paw, ¡°Yup!¡± He pointed his paws down both sides of the tunnel, and the various corpses turned into Stardust before flying into Ollie¡¯s paw. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 2100.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°600 for the big one - must have been a pack alpha - and 300 for each of the rest.¡± Ollie smiled as he bobbed in place. ¡°Current total is at 2115.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Four levels?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± ¡°Right. Okay.¡± Jace rested the back of his head against the tunnel wall, chuckling at his situation. I survived without injury. And I got a massive amount of Stardust. Part of him wanted to level up right there, but another part, the street kid part, told him to hold onto the currency of The Eternal City. I don¡¯t even know what my living situation will be like. Or buying food. Or entertainment options. I mean, sure, I want to get to Tier 10 which will take a lot of effort¡­but I need downtime here and there. Ollie flew over and laid down in front of him on the tunnel floor, his silver outline like a drawing against the surface. ¡°What are you thinking?¡± he asked with genuine curiosity and a tinge of concern. ¡°What¡¯s my living situation going to be like in The Eternal City?¡± ¡°As a Signer, you can live in Xera¡¯s faction HQ. It is the biggest spire at the center of the whole place. But that would mark you as her Signer. Right now, and as far as any other Wayfinder is concerned¡­you are just a free-agent Aspirant. Unless they know what Dark Matter¡¯s symbol is or can do a System request-¡± He punched the air with his little paw. ¡°-Which they will not be able to do with my otter punch in their face! They will not know who you work for. You will just be an unsigned Aspirant.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Think she¡¯d give me a salary of Stardust for a place to live? Food? All that stuff?¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°I can talk to her about that as an alternative to stay at her headquarters.¡± ¡°Good. Then let¡¯s use all that Stardust. 4 levels.¡± ¡°What do you want?¡± ¡°Let¡¯s spend two levels getting Swordmage Stance up to (Rank 3) so that I¡¯m a master with bladed weapons. The other two levels, let¡¯s stay balanced and get Dark Matter Blade up to (Rank 3) as well.¡± ¡°You sure? You wanted something to deal with that General Logistics person hunting you down. Something for armored opponents.¡± Jace waved the concern away, ¡°We¡¯re over two-thousand miles away from the portal. Even if they used the fastest car on Earth, they wouldn¡¯t get here before my next level. I¡¯m sure we¡¯ll be fine.¡± ¡°Yup! You got it.¡± Ollie pointed his paw at Jace, and a flood of Stardust surged into the Aspirant¡¯s torso. Jace felt a more intense but still quite pleasurable rush of heat through his body. He still felt tired, but he felt a little better as his muscles relaxed. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 7.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 3), Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3), Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) Stardust: 115 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, flechette pistol, flechette ammunition (x30), Wirecannon Arm, Runner''s Replacement (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x46), canteen (x2), medical kit, orange tarp (damaged), flint bar, flashlight Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Blade (Rank 2) - The entire blade from hilt to tip is rendered invisible. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 3) - As Rank 2, and the blade inflicts those struck with a minor gravitational pull, slowing their movement. Swordmage Stance (Rank 2) - The user becomes an expert with all bladed weapons. Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) - The user becomes a master with all bladed weapons. <<<<<>>>>> The various System screens popped into his vision, and he re-read the new Skills. The Swordmage Stance should always be on just like before. I wonder if the new Skills cost me more energy. He glanced at Ollie, who was looking at him with keen eyes. ¡°What?¡± he asked. ¡°You are getting strong, fast. Which is great! I have always wanted a strong Aspirant. At this rate, you will max out your Class at level 100 in no time!¡± Jace smirked, ¡°I like the optimism, but that¡¯s a long way to go.¡± ¡°Baby steps.¡± Ollie floated up into the air and began to swim around, ¡°Or, baby strokes, I suppose.¡± Chapter 15 – When Systems fail it becomes Complex
Jace got up after resting a bit and crept towards the front of the tunnel. Looking at the silvery pool, he saw no indication of movement or life. Did I kill all the ones here? The whole den? He glanced over at Ollie, ¡°Is there a way to scan for more of these Vyrknadine?¡± ¡°Nothing I have,¡± Ollie replied as he flew up to the ten-foot maximum tether range and circled in place. ¡°I don¡¯t see any fresh tracks, either.¡± Jace walked over to the pool and looked down into the shimmering silver goop. I wonder if there¡¯s anything feeding this water pool, or if it¡¯s just runoff accumulating. He drew the sword and poked it down into the silvery liquid - and almost fell off balance. There¡¯s not a bottom? Looking around for something heavy, he went back into the tunnel and grabbed one of the hunks of rotting carcass. Keeping his face turned away, he carried it to the water hole, right on the edge, and chucked the hefty cartilage and offal into the liquid. It floated on top for a few seconds before sinking. Ollie flew down, ¡°What are you doing?¡± ¡°I think this is a single hole going down,¡± Jace replied. ¡°Can you go into it and check?¡± Ollie saluted and flew down into the sludge-like liquid, vanishing from sight without disturbing the surface. He came up a few moments later. ¡°It is a tunnel. The magitech nanite stuff is only on the surface. You can put your face into the water and see what I mean.¡± Well, I¡¯ve submerged myself in worse. Jace took a deep breath, got on his hands and knees, and pushed his face below the surface. The goop on the surface clung to him until he got his face fully underwater, and he opened his eyes. The water was clean, and he made a mental note to refill his canteens. Thanks to the dark vision, he saw that the tunnel went down a good thirty feet before turning off sharply. He pulled his head out and shook his hair to wick away some of the moisture. Ollie flew up after him and floated above the surface of the water, ¡°This is the entrance to a Complex.¡± Jace leaned back on his butt and propped himself up with his arms, ¡°You said this was probably where the magitech nanite things had their hive mind.¡± Ollie frowned and crossed his arms, ¡°Well, yes, it is a complex in that sense. But I meant a Complex. Proper noun.¡± Jace stared at him, ¡°That doesn¡¯t tell me a lot.¡± Ollie smirked, ¡°A challenge for Aspirants and Ascendants. Normally, when you enter the Complex, you get a Quest automatically that the System itself assigns. Like a default program.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°See that? That makes sense. What causes these Complexes?¡± ¡°The Cosmic System might ¡®tag¡¯ a certain location as having a threat. Any Ascendant or Aspirant can clear out a Complex - normally slaying whatever corrupted monstrosity exist-¡± ¡°You said corrupted monstrosity.¡± Jace raised a quizzical eyebrow, ¡°Just what do you mean by that?¡± ¡°Well¡­when Cosmogenic Merging happens, sometimes¡­creatures get caught up in a System malfunction. Think of it like a glitch. It is rare, but they become a corrupted Aspirant. Part of that, however, causes them to view an area as their territory and they do not leave it. That creates a Complex. It is their territory.¡± He raised his paw and frowned, ¡°It can also be any creature, not just sapient life. So, there could be a corrupted Vyrknadine down there with a Cosmic Power and Class, just like you.¡± ¡°Great,¡± Jace replied sarcastically. ¡°Just what I need. One of these things is already a threat, with the added bonus of having Skills. Fun.¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°Sarcasm doesn¡¯t suit you.¡± Jace smirked and shook his head, ¡°Do I have to clear this Complex?¡± ¡°No, but-¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Clear the magitech nanite Complex.] [Time Limit: 6 hours.] [Reward: Legendary (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°-Xera probably wants them cleared,¡± Ollie finished as the screen flashed across Jace¡¯s vision. Jace sighed and nodded, ¡°Well, at least the reward is good. Hopefully, I can get some strong, magitech prosthetic feet that are grafted on like the arm.¡± ¡°Plus! With that fluid in your body, those prosthetics would integrate perfectly! I think. Different world, and tech versus magitech.¡± Ollie shrugged, ¡°We won¡¯t know until we find out!¡± ¡°Right. Well, I don¡¯t know how deep I have to go. I can¡¯t take my gear with me.¡± Jace turned around and went to the start of the incline. He used his hands to dig a hole into the crusted goop, into the dirt underneath, and shoved his gear inside the hole. He covered it with the tarp, and then covered that with the excavated dirt. Lastly, he made a small mound of dirt marking the location. ¡°Oh, one more thing,¡± Ollie said as he hovered behind Jace. ¡°Boons for (Equipment) of the higher rarity might give you a limited number of other Class and Cosmic Power Skill uses each day. It is refreshed when you sleep, since I have to go into the Starlit Sea and pull out some power to recharge them.¡± ¡°Good to know.¡± Jace walked back to the water¡¯s edge. The silvery surface reminded him of the oil that floated atop the waters of the city¡¯s rivers. The ones he used to paddle across on those small boats that were little more than thrown-and-bolted together metal. The ones that his mentor on the streets taught him to fish from. The polluted water he used to swim in, struggling to get to the bottom to dig through the trash for valuables he could sell. In through the nose, out through the mouth. Jace took deep breaths as he pushed his chest out and expanded his diaphragm, trying to give his lungs as much space as he could. After two minutes of steady, deep breathing, he sucked in a large lungful of air and dove beneath the surface.This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. The muck atop the water parted and he began to swim down. The magitech arm was, surprisingly, not as heavy as Jace expected, and it did not drag him down. Ollie swam next to him, leaving small lines of silver behind him. The two descended thirty feet before sharply turning to the right. The walls of this tunnel were the same smooth metal as that hidden outpost, and there was goop crusted on the walls. Jace made sure to stay at the center of the tunnel. He felt his lungs beginning to burn and let out a little bit of air to stave off the feeling of tension. A slow, steady stream of bubbles to keep his breath held a bit longer. He saw a curve in the tunnel that bent upward and following that he came to a spot where the water did not reach. A small lip that he was able to get his hands up onto and hoist himself on top of. He sucked in a deep lungful of air as he broke the surface. A square tunnel descended deeper, and his purple-hue vision pulsed for a moment before a warning appeared in the corner of his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 3.] <<<<<>>>>> Ollie floated in the air next to Jace, ¡°Welp, only three. But they are Tier 2.¡± That¡¯s dangerous, Jace thought. It means I won¡¯t be able to hurt them as easily, and they can do more harm to me. ¡°Could we come back and revisit this place?¡± ¡°We could, but the unique items at the end that give Skills from other Classes are unbelievably valuable. Especially to Ascendants.¡± ¡°Because they can¡¯t keep leveling,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°Yup! You could get lucky and even get one that lets you heal yourself in some way.¡± I needed three more Vyrknadine¡¯s for the other quest. What are the odds¡­ ¡°One more question before we go in. Do you think that Xera knew this was here, and knew that we would come here?¡± ¡°I do not think she is omniscient. She is smart, but she is not a goddess.¡± Jace nodded and turned to face the square corridor. He drew the sword and focused on drawing up his new Skills. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 3), Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3). The purple aura popped into existence around him before adhering to his body, and the sword in his hand was completely engulfed in the purple hue that was much richer and darker. Last, he put the blade between his teeth, pulled out the flechette pistol, and cranked the shaft to charge it. He held that in his right hand, sword in his left, and descended into the darkness with only a floating river otter by his side.
Ollie followed behind Jace, looking down at the Aspirant. He is good, Ollie thought. Finally, I got a good one. Ollie had been a Wayfarer for a little over a thousand years. He was young in Wayfarer terms, but that also meant he was less risk-averse than some of the older Wayfarers when it came to overseeing Aspirants. Sure, he had pushed Jace to make some rash decisions. But in the end, everything had turned out well enough. And as of right now, he was the only Signer for a secret, hidden faction. Sure, Xera would be trying to add more Aspirants to her faction¡­but the lack of agents meant that she would be giving lots of high-rank reward Quests to Jace and Ollie. Jace did not have to complete a Quest that was assigned - and Xera would not exile him from Dark Between Stars for doing so. She was too desperate for Signers to do that. But it was Ollie¡¯s job to try and keep him not just informed, but also on the right path. A path that helped The Cosmic System. I have to keep pushing him toward helping Xera and taking every one of her Quests. That wa- <<<<<>>>>> A message from Xera that only Ollie could see popped into the otter¡¯s vision. [How is he doing?.] [Good. We are going after a Complex.] Ollie replied, willing the words into the reply box. [I did some digging. Those Vyrknadines up on the surface were the original apex predator of Velenar Prime. They are equally acclimated to on land or underwater. Keep that in mind.] Ollie smirked, [Will do. Any information you could dig up on this person who is hunting Jace?.] [No. Her Wayfinder is obfuscating my attempts.] Ollie frowned, [Keep me in the loop.] [Will do. Keep my Signer safe.] [Of course.] <<<<<>>>>> Ollie refocused and bobbed in air above Jace as the two continued down a square corridor that turned a few times, dipping into watery passages that the Aspirant swam through. Ollie swam alongside his new companion; not really swimming in the water but appearing as if he was. His whole goal is to bring back his sister. It is noble, but I wonder if he¡¯ll do anything to get her back, or if he will set boundaries. Xera would doubtless task Jace with killing Ascendants who had crossed her or were causing The Cosmic System to experience issues. Would the young man be able to accomplish her tasks? Or would he push back against certain actions? Ollie hoped it was the former. Xera was smart, the smartest person Ollie knew. If she needed a Quest completed, then Ollie had to push Jace to complete it. Even if it meant compromising morality. The signs were there that Jace would do what needed to be done. Killing the Black Hole Conclave member was proof enough. Ollie had not detected any sense of remorse from the action. It was quick and efficient. I think he is the perfect Dark Between Stars Signer, Ollie thought. You made a good call, Xera. Ollie just had to keep building their friendship. He had felt the moments of brusque standoffish behavior from Jace and knew that he would have to really work to show he was an asset and a true ally. After all, they were bound together now. At least¡­until Jace achieved his goal of becoming an Ascendant. Then he could choose to cast aside his Wayfinder as so many did. I am not going to start over from scratch again, Ollie thought. I need to make him want to keep me around forever. I have to become invaluable. His best friend. He wanted a friend. Not just an acquaintance, but someone who actually cared about him. An equal. Plus, being a Wayfinder to a Tier 10 Ascendant meant that everyone would respect him. No more being made fun of for the loss of Aspirants in the past. No more being the butt of jokes from those who had also lost their assigned individual. We will get you there, Jace. Then I will show them all! Chapter 16 – Sometimes, one is greater than three
The crusted ground crunched under the heavy footfalls. The armored woman with the Nebula symbol on her hand glanced over at her Wayfinder; a mako shark floating through the air next to her, made of sparkling starlight. ¡°Map,¡± the Aspirant¡¯s gravelly, partially mechanized voice rumbled out. Female, but she could be mistaken for an automaton given the level of distortion in the tones emanating from her helmet. ¡°Right,¡± the shark growled out. Unmistakably male. There was a flash of starlight and then a three-dimensional planet appeared. ¡°They are on the other side of the world. It will take 12 days to arrive at their last reported location.¡± The armored woman nodded and revved the engine on her General Logistics hypercycle. The powerful machine belched out toxic fumes from its exhaust and rocketed off across the landscape. The woman held a large hammer in her left hand, letting it dangle behind her as she traveled. ¡°Incoming predator animal,¡± the mako shark stated. ¡°Nine o¡¯clock. On an intercept course.¡± The woman turned and saw the creature approaching. A chitin-covered shape like a wolf. Lifting the hammer, she willed her Skill to activate, and it crackled with shimmering ice spikes. The wolf kept charging at an intercept course, and she brought the hammer across its face, killing it with a single blow as the head was fully knocked off, and ice spread along the body. Within seconds the form shattered into pieces. Her Wayfinder immediately converted the corpse to Stardust as the two sped off over the blasted land towards their prey. Someone who had taken a job from General Logistics and had the key to the future of cybernetic advancement and integration on Earth. A courier with valuable cargo. Flicker. Jace Seren. Dead man walking. She grinned with sadistic delight under the helmet as the miles passed by.
Jace cautiously walked down the corridors. The boots softened his footfalls that would have otherwise been quite noisy due to the makeshift prosthetics. He held the sword slightly in front of him at an upward angle and had the flechette pistol at the ready. Ollie floated in front of him, acting as an advance scout and peering around corners. He had to sheath the weapon and pocket the pistol several times as he went through partially flooded corridors, wending his way through the single tunnel. How far does this go on? I¡¯ve been going for a good twenty minutes. ¡°Ollie, pull up the map.¡± ¡°Yup.¡± Ollie paused and his paws sparkled with starlight as the map of the world appeared. He zoomed in and even though they could only see the location relative to the surface, Jace could tell from the topography that they had gone past the edge of the crater. Ollie pointed at one of the zoomed in sections, at the far end of the Vyrknadine ¡®kill ten¡¯ Quest area that was marked off. ¡°It looks like there was a building there at one point. I bet that these tunnels lead there.¡± ¡°What do you think the purpose of the tunnel was?¡± Jace asked as he resumed his journey into the darkness. Ollie assumed his lead position, ¡°Well, the crater is where the weird magitech hive mind for the nanites was located. This might have been a way to feed it power?¡± Jace scanned the walls, floor, and ground. ¡°I don¡¯t see any sign of those copper-like wires that we saw in that hidden post.¡± ¡°Neither do I,¡± Ollie muttered. He stopped in the air at a turn and held up his paw in a small, closed fist. ¡°Stay quiet.¡± Jace crept forward and peered around the corner with meticulous caution. There was an open chamber - an enormous square room that was full of weird, arcane symbols and the same brass-colored wires. And arc reactors. All of them deactivated. Glancing down, Jace saw that there was some type of ¡®cut¡¯ where the brass-colored lines that had led down the corridor to the crater once lay. They were removed. ¡°Someone took away the hive mind¡¯s power source,¡± Ollie commented. ¡°Before making that crater. I bet that was the final effort after the magitech nanites found another way to power their control point.¡± Jace nodded and snuck into the room. Ollie ascended to his maximum tether height. The cavernous space slightly echoed with Jace¡¯s footfalls. He could hear his faint breathing coming back to meet him. He passed the rest of the way through the area before entering another square tunnel that turned into a staircase ascending upward. And he heard a soft growling noise. Far off above him, but it was rhythmic. Three distinct types of breath - different pitches, almost creating a small harmony with each other - sucking air in and out. Careful. Even quieter. Jace went as slow as he could, calling up all his ability to sneak around - just like he had done with gang territory dozens of times before. After an agonizingly long climb, with his heartbeat racing faster and faster as he grew closer to the noise, he came to a torn-off door. All that remained was a frame and torn-away metal. The frame was bent inward as well - as if something tried to push its way down the passage but could not fit. Beyond the door he saw a sight that made him freeze in place. An enormous Vyrknadine - as large as a semi-truck - was inside this large space, shredded metal storage shelves were scattered around and used to make an uncomfortable bed in the corner of the room that it lay upon. Its tail was tipped with an enormous cluster of chitin that made it appear mace-like, and that was coiled around the three pairs of legs as it slumbered. More shocking was that it had three heads. Just like a band logo Jace had seen before. He could not remember the name of it. Ollie spoke at a normal volume. ¡°The Cosmogenic Merging glitching out¡­it merged three Vyrknadine together.¡± He looked back to Jace with a slight smile, but there was a tone of worry that tinged the words. ¡°Two Quests with one kill. This counts as three of them.¡± Jace mouthed the word ¡®how,¡¯ and Ollie shrugged. ¡°It has the same weak spots as a regular Vyrknadine. So, get in under it and stab up at the heart.¡± The creature stirred and Jace froze. He looked up at Ollie and put a finger to his lips. The thing is technically part of The Cosmic System¡­so it could hear Ollie talking. It¡¯s an Aspirant, just a corrupt one. The otter clapped his paws over his mouth and nodded. Well, it¡¯s asleep. I need to sneak in close and try to kill it before it wakes up. Looking it over, and taking in the size, Jace also knew that if he got behind it - he could use his grapnel to latch onto its back should it wake up. That size, it can¡¯t easily bend around and reach for something small holding on. Jace could not help his trembling arms despite trying to command them to still. Fear was coursing through him. This creature was enormous. It could eat him in one bite. The tail could do some major damage as well, not to speak of the clawed feet. Is this too much? I can always go back. There¡¯s no harm in that. Ollie noticed his hesitation and flew down right in front of Jace. ¡°You can do this. You have the power. Use it.¡± The voice was a whisper, just loud enough for Jace and none other to hear. Jace did not know if it was the words or some other, unknown effect of Ollie¡¯s personality¡­but Jace felt his confidence buoy up. Yeah. You are right. I survived losing an arm and a foot. And an Aspirant hunting me down. I¡¯ve only gotten stronger since. He went forward with agonizing slowness, making sure to not step on any bit of detritus that would make a noise and give away his position. The sound of breathing continued to get louder and louder until he was next to the creature. It was almost deafening, and even the sound of his rapidly beating heart was drowned out by the rhythmic inhalation and exhalation. He got to the stomach and found a gap between the chitinous plates. Okay. This is it. His plan was simple enough - stab in, make a small gap, and fire the flechette pistol into the body cavity. If it were encased with bone like the skull, he could rely on ricochet to help finish the creature. But if this were not a lucky shot, he would have to fight this thing. He knew these things could regenerate, but a solid hit to the heart or the brain should kill it, if it was anything like the ones on the surface. He placed the tip of the blade against the gap and softly took a breath in. Now! He exhaled as he thrust deep inside. The creature woke and began to move, but before it could pull itself away from the sword, Jace shoved the pistol alongside the weapon and shot it into the small gap. Some of the projectiles made it into the wound, and as Jace pulled the blade out and leaped backward, he could see the aftereffect of the (Rank 3) Dark Matter Blade. A soft, purple glow surrounded the wound before spreading across the creature like a film. That should slow it down, he thought knowing that now it was afflicted with a small gravitational pull.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. The creature yelped out in pain and stood up. The three heads whipped around, and one of them bit down on Jace. Seemingly driven by instinct - or more likely the Swordmage Stance - he flattened himself on the ground and the monstrous maw chomped onto empty air overhead. Rolling to the side, he dropped the pistol, aimed his prosthetic arm¡¯s palm at the ceiling, and launched the tether. It attached, and he thumbed the rewind button. He was pulled out of danger by the coiling line, and he tapped another button to release the spike as he vaulted through the air and landed on his feet. He felt slightly winded as the Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) took the brunt of the fall damage. That spared his makeshift prosthetic attachments, thankfully. The triple-headed Vyrknadine stood up to its full height and released a melodic howl that was almost haunting as the three tones overlapped each other. Jace looked on with dismay as the wound on the stomach sealed, and the slight drip of green ichor ceased. Damnit! I didn¡¯t get the heart. The creature began charging toward him. Ollie shouted, ¡°Grapple the roof again and fling yourself away!¡± Jace did so and once more left the space where the creature¡¯s mouths chomped down on empty air. As he went zipping by, he struck out with this blade. To his surprise, his arm turned by instinct and carved into a gap between the chitinous plates. Must be the Swordmage Stance kicking in, moving my body on its own. There was a spray of green ichor, and more of the purple film spread slowly over the creature. ¡°Just keep carving at it! Stack the slowing effect!¡± Ollie ordered as Jace once more landed and felt the slight dip in his energy. ¡°Right,¡± Jace replied, filled with confidence at the exhortation of his newfound capabilities. The monstrosity turned once more - slightly slower - and charged again. Jace pointed the grapnel to the ceiling and triggered it to pull him along. As he passed over the head of the creature, he slashed downward. And it bit upward. The center head craned back at what looked like an impossible angle, and it latched onto his prosthetic foot. ¡°Damnit!¡± Jace shouted as he felt his arm pull against the creature¡¯s maw. He could not keep letting this thing tug on him. The Dark Matter Shield kept him from suffering injury and kept the mouth from actually biting down on the prosthetic itself, but the more the teeth ground down and it pulled, the more tired Jace felt. It¡¯s either release the grapnel and fall down into it. Or¡­ He took a deep breath. Deactivate Dark Matter Shield. The purple bubble around him vanished with a ¡®pop¡¯, and he winced - not out of pain, thankfully - as the creature bit onto his prosthetic foot and the jerry-rigged part attaching it to his stump went slipping off. Jace went sailing up towards the grapple point and thumbed the release. Twisting his body in the air, he took aim at the center of the creature¡¯s spinal cord - and fired the now-coiled cord once more. The hook shot out and planted firmly into the nape. It pulled Jace forward - the body whipping around trying to get at him. But, thanks to the Dark Matter Blade (Rank 3) gravitational pull effect, it moved slower than his grapnel line pulled him to it. Within a second, he was planted firmly on the base of its neck. The creature began to thrash and buck, trying to kick him off. Jace clamped down his thighs - just like he had done with the first Vyrknadine he had encountered, his legs finding purchase on spikes of the chitin - and swung the sword repeatedly at the left-most head. The blade went up and the ichor would spray, and then it would come down and cut just a little bit deeper. The monstrosity flailed and tried to roll to crush him, but Jace simply wrapped his prosthetic arm around the creature, swung his body onto the front-side of its neck, and then released the grapnel. It was belly down for a moment - and he was on top of it. He stabbed down into the center-head¡¯s neck and carved a bloody, vertical slash. The momentum of the creature¡¯s roll sent him spinning off to the side of the chamber, and he felt shredded metal cutting at his armored clothing. Thankfully, none of it penetrated, and despite the bumpy throw he ended up only lightly bruised. ¡°Hell yeah!¡± Ollie shouted. ¡°You got it on the ropes now!¡± The creature writhed on the floor as it tried to get up. I must have cut down deep enough that I got their singular windpipe, he thought as he could see the sputtering green fluid. But he also knew it would regenerate quickly. I need to end it now! Once more, he aimed the grapnel, fired, and watched it sink into the once-more-upright creature that seemed stunned whilst it recovered. The hook slammed into the wound he had cut in the neck, and he retracted the line - pulling himself towards it at high speed. He pointed the blade straight forward with his left hand and stabbed as deep as he could - his arm going all the way up to the elbow. The monstrous creature shuddered before collapsing. Jace cried out in pain as the sudden mass fell on him. ¡°Ollie! Dust it!¡± he tried to shout, but the air was pushed out of his lungs, and he felt himself being slowly crushed to death under the weight. This is how I die? Really? I beat the thing! The world began to go dark. A single, brief instant passed. And then the weight was lifted. Jace gasped and took a deep breath as he saw the cloud of shimmering starlight above him, swirling into his river otter companion. Ollie flew over him and hovered in place, ¡°You okay?¡± Jace groaned but nodded. ¡°Alive,¡± he croaked out as he coughed and rolled himself into the recovery position on his side. Screens flashed up in his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 2000.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay 10 Vyrknadine.] [Current Progress: 10/10.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Legendary (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Clear the magitech nanite Complex.] [Time Limit: 6 hours.] [Reward: Legendary (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Ollie flew overhead and smiled, ¡°Well, you have gotten a Legendary (Equipment) and (Skill Evolution) Boon. Plus, a bunch of Stardust to use.¡± Jace chuckled. ¡°Just¡­let me rest for a few minutes.¡± He glanced sideways and scanned the room for his scattershot pistol. He saw the crushed remains, slightly sparking, off to the side near this creature¡¯s nest. Damnit. That was useful. Just to confirm it was destroyed, he pulled up his status screen. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 7.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 3), Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3), Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) Stardust: 2115 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, Wirecannon Arm, Runner''s Replacement (1/2) (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x46), canteen (x2), medical kit, orange tarp (damaged), flint bar, flashlight Boons: Legendary (Skill Evolution), Legendary (Equipment) <<<<<>>>>> Damnit. He looked down at his smooth stump where there once was a makeshift prosthetic. ¡°At least we have that Boon to use. Can it get me a pair of feet?¡± ¡°Even better!¡± Ollie shouted. ¡°A pair of legs.¡± Jace smirked. Guess I¡¯m getting magitech legs then. He looked down at the still-holding on singular Runner¡¯s Replacement foot, hanging on by straps and rails. And I suppose I can sell you. Chapter 17 – Greg Bhastal, Private Security
There was loud knocking at the door. ¡°I just woke up!¡± The tall and sumptuous woman got off the bed and walked over to the door. Peering through the peephole, she saw a familiar face. ¡°Oh shit!¡± she flung the door open as the harsh sunlight of The Eternal City poured onto her face. ¡°You¡¯re back!¡± She flung her arms around her beloved. Greg held her close, ¡°Of course I¡¯m back,¡± he whispered in Missy¡¯s ear as he squeezed her in his burly arms. She squealed with delight and pulled him inside, and he pulled the door shut with his foot. She pulled away and held his face for a moment before leaning in and giving him a deep kiss. ¡°You left all of a sudden.¡± ¡°And you left Earth.¡± Greg smirked and swept his girlfriend off her feet, walking over to the bed and gently laying her down before getting alongside her. Neither said any words as they just lay there, enjoying the presence of each other. ¡°Sorry to interrupt,¡± a masculine voice stated. A spectral, starry spider floated off to the side in the corner of the room. ¡°Mind introducing me?¡± Missy sat up, ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± she asked. Greg chuckled, ¡°Missy, this is Darrin. Darrin, Missy. Girlfriend, meet Wayfinder. Civilians normally can¡¯t see Wayfinders, but since you¡¯re my partner¡­well, we get a little bit of a workaround.¡± Darrin floated forward, ¡°Aren¡¯t females normally afraid of spiders in your world?¡± Missy shook her head and held out her hand, ¡°I actually like them a lot. I had an extensive collection back on Earth.¡± She looked over at Greg as Darrin settled on her palm, ¡°What¡¯s a Wayfinder?¡± ¡°Think of him like my helper,¡± Greg said as he leaned into the cushions. ¡°I chose Aspirant. That¡¯s why I¡¯ve been AWOL for a while.¡± He held up his left hand and looked at the symbol on the back of it. A deep brown and green sphere. Planet Protector , he thought. Nice ring to the combo. He willed his status screen to open as he had been doing every thirty minutes, still floored that he had Cosmic Power at his disposal. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Greg Bhastal (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Planet [Protector 1.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Protector''s Vow (Rank 1), Planetary Defenses (Rank 1), Planetary Retribution (Rank 1) Stardust: 315 Equipment: Protector''s starting gear, Pheracorp deflection matrix, Stunstick Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Protector¡¯s Vow (Rank 1): Designate a target or object. That item has all damage redirected to the user, after going against the target''s defenses. Planetary Defenses (Rank 1): The user hardens their body with earth and rock, increasing their resilience at the cost of speed and nimbleness. Planetary Retribution (Rank 1): The user duplicates damage back to those who inflict it upon them at half efficacy. <<<<<>>>>> He had chosen a Class that let him protect people or cargo. In effect, making him more effective at his chosen profession. The Aspirant Trial had only ended a few days ago, but he had already made it back to Earth and - for now - remained a free agent among the various factions. His Skills would enable him to take damage for a person or other target, give himself a barrier of rock and stone that would increase his durability, and even deal damage to those who harmed him. The perfect bodyguard or cargo escort. What he had done for most of his life back on Earth. With the opening of The Cosmic Corridor on Earth, he knew that his talents would be invaluable for off-world trading and transit. She slapped him, ¡°Why would you do that?! The voice thing said it was dangerous!¡± Greg rubbed his jaw as the screen vanished. The blow did not hurt, but he wanted to act like it did. ¡°I deserve that.¡± He sat up and looked into her eyes as Darrin floated off her hand and went to the ceiling. ¡°I¡­I just wanted a better life for us. You got here and are already set up in this nice apartment¡­but I don¡¯t want us to be just working grunts.¡± He grabbed her hands and sandwiched them between his large, calloused palms. ¡°I love you, baby. I just want to give you the best life. What better way than becoming an Ascendant?¡± She had teared up slightly and nodded, ¡°I¡­thank you¡­I love you, too.¡± The two lay together, just present in each other¡¯s presence. Content to live and be alive. ¡°Hate to interrupt,¡± Darrin stated as he floated down from above, his skittering legs walking on invisible webbing that appeared underneath him when he moved. ¡°But you¡¯ve got a message.¡± ¡°From whom?¡± Greg asked. ¡°That Aspirant you met. Quinn. She is curious if you are interested in working with her faction. She is a Star Council Signer.¡± Greg crossed his arms, ¡°I don¡¯t want to be a Signer-¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to be,¡± Darrin replied. ¡°She wants to pay you for a gig.¡± Greg grinned and looked at Missy, ¡°See? Already got clients lining up for a bit of Giant Greg¡¯s Guard service.¡± Missy giggled a little at the alliteration, ¡°You always had a way with words.¡± ¡°Hey, I¡¯m going to copyright that name. You watch, it¡¯ll be my new business.¡± He gave Missy a kiss and looked back to Darrin. ¡°Tell her I¡¯ll meet her tomorrow. And do you mind leaving us alone for a bit? I¡­would like some time with my lady love here.¡± ¡°Say no more,¡± Darrin replied as he vanished with a pop.
Jace finished taking his temporarily attached Runner¡¯s Replacement off. Damn, lost a boot when the three-headed thing got my other foot. Jace shook his head and sighed. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s do this.¡± He set the still-intact boot to the side and looked at his two stumps just below his shins. ¡°You said that we can get legs, not just feet?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie flew around Jace¡¯s torso and twirled in the air, leaving small, blue streams of liquid starlight behind him. ¡°All the way up to where they would socket into your hips. That should help with fatigue and remove a lot of stress your body would suffer.¡± ¡°Is there any¡­risk with that level of prosthetic?¡± ¡°Not really,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°I mean, against a Pulsar powered Aspirant or Ascendant? Sure, their magnetism or electricity powers would mess you up. But ¡± he chuckled. ¡°You have Dark Matter as your Cosmic Power. Just by nature of that, you are highly resistant to electricity and magnetism. So¡­for you? There is no real risk of going heavy into prosthetics - magitech or just tech based. Someone who isn¡¯t you? Yeah, I would not advise this level of change.¡± Jace took a deep breath and nodded, ¡°This is going to hurt like the arm, isn¡¯t it?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± ¡°Alright, let me-¡± Jace reached for the boot and put it in between his teeth, biting down as he laid back. ¡°Doo itth!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Legendary (Equipment).] [Manifesting.]Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. <<<<<>>>>> Jace felt the searing heat once more. It started in the stumps right below his knees and then raced up his leg and to the thighs. He bit down on the boot, screaming in pain as his vision began to go white. The heat surged up along his hips and he could feel the ungodly pain in his pelvis. Just as he thought he could not stand it any further, the pain stopped and was replaced with a soothing, cool feeling. ¡°These are called Dragonclaw Devastation Legs.¡± Jace stood up and - to his surprise - felt the ground under the claws that gripped the floor below. ¡°Crap. How do I-¡± he tried unflexing his toes, as if he were pulling them back and curling them up from the floor, and the claws receded from their grip. The metal was a deep crimson with the same black geometric lines running along the length as his arm had. ¡°Well, they look cool.¡± ¡°You will be able to walk on walls and even ceilings by sinking your feet-claws into them. Plus, they are really, really strong! You could jump ten feet vertically.¡± Ollie excitedly said as his tail wagged. ¡°And they give you a once-per-day use of the Starfire Stride Skill.¡± Jace tested hopping from one foot to the next. He cracked a smile and laughed aloud as he felt mobility unlike any he had ever had before. Experimenting, he took off at a sprint across the room, planted the foot-talons to suddenly stop and pivot, and then ran back the same way from which he had come. It was¡­almost natural, retracting the claws with each footstep, which gave him even more power to push himself forward. ¡°What¡¯s Starfire Stride do?¡± he asked as he pivoted once more, intending to continue practicing in this now-safe space. Ollie flew after him as he continued his wind sprints and sharp turns. ¡°It will leave a trail of fire behind you for ten seconds. The flames will not injure you or any of your gear.¡± Jace grinned and stopped his sprints, taking in deep breaths. The legs felt like his legs. The ones he was born with. He could feel every sensation of the metal crumpling under the powerful feet-claws. But there was no pain, no muscle fatigue. Just sheer, raw, power. The tactile sensation was intriguing, as he could feel the sharp edges of the crumpled metal, but it did not actually hurt at all. ¡°Looks like I don¡¯t need boots at all,¡± Jace said with a smile as he went to the wall and tested stepping on it with his right leg. He felt the metal of the wall crumple under the foot-claw¡¯s grip, and he tried moving his other leg up. Only to fall flat on his ass. ¡°Ow!¡± He shouted out as he bruised his tailbone for the second time since arriving on this world. ¡°What the hell? I thought you said I could walk on walls and ceilings?¡± Ollie rolled over in the air, laughing. Jace had not heard that noise before, and despite the deep voice, the laugh was infectious and Jace felt himself chuckling as well as he got up. ¡°It doesn¡¯t stop physics,¡± Ollie replied. Jace looked up to the ceiling and fired off the grapnel arm, retracting the cord until he was on the ceiling. He swung his legs forward and clamped down with the claws, hanging upside-down as he let go with the grapple hook. ¡°Ok, so physics still apply, despite magitech stuff.¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Jace let go with his feet, flipped around, and fell the thirty feet down before landing in a crouch. He hardly registered any impact. ¡°That¡¯s enough messing around. We have another Boon to use, and a ton of levels we can use, right?¡± ¡°Yup! Four levels if you want.¡± ¡°Right. I want to level up. Are there any more Ranks to my already-existing Skills?¡± ¡°Not for Dark Matter Shield - it is maxed out at Rank 3. Dark Matter Blade has two more Ranks available. Here, I will show you.¡± The screen appeared in the corner of Jace¡¯s vision. <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Blade (Rank 4) - As Rank 3, increasing the gravitational pull and movement slowing effect. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) - As Rank 4, and the gravity begins to form micro-singularities that deal constant damage. <<<<<>>>>> ¡°What about Swordmage Stance?¡± Ollie shook his head, ¡°Nope, that¡¯s maxed out at Rank 3 as well.¡± Jace nodded. ¡°Well, we should get Dark Matter Blade up to (Rank 5). That takes two of my levels. I know I want a Skill I can use at range. Preferably that can deal with armored enemies.¡± He frowned, ¡°What exactly does the ¡®mage¡¯ part of Swordmage do for me?¡± Ollie waved his paws, and another screen appeared in Jace¡¯s vision - taking up most of it. He saw a person dressed in billowing clothing. They raised their hand, and a ball of flame appeared before shooting out and exploding in a huge area thirty feet away. ¡°The ¡®mage¡¯ part of Swordmage means you can do stuff like that. But, Dark Matter¡¯s version.¡± ¡°Which would look like what?¡± <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Dart (Rank 1) - The user launches a concentrated dart of Dark Matter that pierces the target. <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Okay,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°But it doesn¡¯t explode like the other one I saw.¡± ¡°That¡¯s where a Skill Evolution would come into play in your Cosmic Power¡¯s case,¡± Ollie explained. ¡°And you have one saved up from a Boon.¡± ¡°Well¡­are these Skill Evolutions random or can I choose the effect?¡± Ollie frowned and shook his head, ¡°Random. You just choose the Skill it applies to.¡± I¡¯d rather have it empower the thing I use more often. Plus, I imagine that Dark Matter Dart always costs me energy. ¡°I want the Evolution applied to Dark Matter Blade.¡± Ollie nodded and waved his little paws in the air. <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Legendary (Skill Evolution).] [Applying to Skill.] [Skill Name: Dark Matter Blade.] [Evolution Name: Rending.] [Effect: The blade causes a bleed that cannot be stopped unless the user wills it.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°That¡¯s nasty,¡± Ollie commented. ¡°But will be brutally effective for hit and run tactics.¡± Jace drew his sword and closed his eyes. Okay, show me the pattern. Behind his eyelids, he saw the pattern that he traced with his fingertips. After finishing, he held up the blade to inspect it. The whole entire length from hilt to tip was sheathed in the purple glow - invisible to all except him and Ollie - but there was a subtle, deep crimson hidden within the purple. Like a mixer in an alcoholic beverage - he could tell it was there, but it was easy to miss. ¡°Okay,¡± Jace said as he sheathed the blade and let the Skill fade. ¡°Let¡¯s level up. Dark Matter Blade up to (Rank 5), and Dark Matter Dart up to (Rank 2).¡± ¡°Yup! Coming up!¡± Ollie reached into his little dimensional pocket-pouch, pulled out the stardust, and threw it at Jace¡¯s chest. He felt the warmth settle throughout his body and he felt giddy at the rush of energy that jolted through him a moment later. Let¡¯s see that status screen. And what Dark Matter Dart at (Rank 2) does. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 11.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3), Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), Dark Matter Dart (Rank 2), Starfire Stride (1/day) Stardust: 115 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, Wirecannon Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, Runner''s Replacement (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x46), canteen (x2), medical kit, orange tarp (damaged), flint bar, flashlight Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Dart (Rank 2) - As Rank 1, but launch 3 darts at a single target, or spread across multiple targets. <<<<<>>>>> Jace smiled and looked up at Ollie, ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s get out of here. The same way we came in? Or out that way?¡± Jace pointed to another beat-to-hell door frame on the opposite side of the room where they came in. ¡°What about the arc reactors downstairs? We were going to see if we could take them apart, right?¡± There were a lot of them. It would take me a couple of days to disassemble them and remove the useful components that can generate power. I can¡¯t remake the flechette pistol, but I can sell the valuable components when I get to The Eternal City. ¡°Let¡¯s get my gear first, then we can come back and disassemble them." Ollie nodded and floated next to Jace as he took off at a fast pace, walking with confidence in his newfound power. But more than that, the feeling of fully functional legs after walking around on makeshift prosthetics and stumps was thrilling. Chapter 18 – Baring the truth and bearing poor company
Jace walked up many, many flights of stairs that kept doubling back on each other. This facility was buried deep to keep the arc reactor safe, he thought. It took about thirty minutes to climb up - and he did not feel any strain on his legs. His hip flexors were burning with exertion, and he had to pause a few times. Going up stairs was not something he was used to, as most buildings he did happen to go inside on Earth had elevators. When he did arrive at the top, he found a closed and locked door. Lifting his leg, he kicked forward, and the object went clattering into a dusty, ancient room. Bunker living quarters, he was able to scavenge and find another one of the survival kits - just like what he found in the other hidden outpost. This is a little under what I¡¯ll need to make it to the portal, he thought. He left the crate, knowing he would return to the location, and broke through more doors before arriving outside once more. The night sky was dark, and the stars filled up the vast expanse overhead. Glancing around, he saw that this building facade was built into a small hill. The crater was ahead, and he was able to get back to his stash quickly. He climbed back up, re-entered the arc reactor building, and barricaded the front entrance. Jace made sure to clear the whole living quarters for anything useful - but all was stripped save for the one survival kit. Adding those meals to his satchel, he descended into the facility once more. Ollie helped direct his efforts in breaking down the arc reactors, and five days passed. After the first day, the disassembly process was rote to the Aspirant, and Ollie and he chatted at length about the Wayfinder¡¯s past charges. He had been responsible for several hundred in his approximately 1,000-year existence. All of them died during The Aspirant Trial. Jace was his first successful case. And over the course of those several days of conversation, Jace understood more and more why Oliver was so rude and pessimistic at their first meeting. He had seen those he was responsible for dying. Over and over. Hundreds of deaths. ¡°Eventually,¡± Ollie said. ¡°You have to make yourself numb to it.¡± On the fifth day, as Jace was finishing the last arc reactor and collecting the forty critical components that Ollie said would sell for a good amount of Stardust, the otter admitted something he had kept secret. ¡°There¡¯s one more thing I¡¯ve not talked about,¡± Ollie said softly, but his voice was filled with trepidation. Jace wiped his brow with the back of his sleeve and nodded, ¡°Go ahead.¡± The otter¡¯s expression was¡­pensive. ¡°When you become an Ascendant - not if, because I know you¡¯ll make it there with your knack for surviving tough spots¡­you don¡¯t have to keep your Wayfinder.¡± He sighed, ¡°You could¡­choose to dismiss me.¡± Jace frowned, ¡°And do you think I shouldn¡¯t? You completely doubted I would survive when I first got transported to this world. Quote, ¡®I¡¯m not expecting you to survive.¡¯ But I did. And only then did you begin to warm up to me.¡± Ollie¡¯s face twisted into one of remorse and he floated down to the ground, curling up in a pathetic-looking, cuddle-able spiral. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± It sounded like a genuine apology. Jace had heard plenty of fake ones, but the way that Ollie said it smacked of Chroma¡¯s apologies when she did something stupid and Jace had to teach her why what she did was dangerous. It sent the young man reeling into his memories for a moment before he shook off the recollections. ¡°Apology accepted,¡± Jace said with a soft sigh. ¡°Wha-¡± ¡°I forgive you. For doubting me. It¡¯s all right.¡± Jace turned to the stairs to begin his ascent to the surface again. ¡°I¡¯ve had people doubt me since I was a kid, escaping onto the streets and not expected to survive. But I did. Then, when I rescued my sister from that place, I kept myself and her alive.¡± He glanced back at the now-floating river otter who followed with a sorrow-filled, curious expression. ¡°I don¡¯t plan to discard you. We might have had a rough start, but you¡¯ve been genuinely helpful, and I don¡¯t think I could survive this Cosmic System without your help.¡± Ollie floated in front of him, ¡°You mean it? Really?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Jace replied. I need you right now. And the past few days have shown that you¡¯re someone I can trust. ¡°You and me, all the way to Tier 10 Ascendant. Then, I¡¯ll bring back Chroma.¡± He raised an eyebrow, ¡°But that does bring up a question - what happens when I bring Chroma back? Will she be given the whole Civilian vs. Aspirant choice?¡± Ollie shrugged, ¡°I do not know. I would bet it is like a person being present during Cosmogenic Merging and she would get the choice.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°So if she chose Aspirant, she¡¯d have to deal with the whole Trial. But she could work towards her own immortality.¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°Yup.¡± ¡°But I couldn¡¯t help her, since The Cosmic System prevents Ascendants from getting involved.¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°Also a yup. She was young when she died from what you have said, so she would be in The Eternal City in one of the childcare centers.¡± Jace sighed in relief. ¡°Good to hear.¡± He got up to the surface and trudged across the barren landscape toward the portal that lay across the planet. ¡°Any good stories to tell to pass the time?¡±
Quinn was frazzled and frantic, running around the shop. A special guest was going to be visiting - someone especially important to the Star Council. Someone who went by the name Levi. Stolen story; please report. Mizarion had been chatting idly as he helped to move some of the heavier cargo about. ¡°Levi¡¯s real name is Leviticus Smith. He¡¯s a Tier 5 Ascendant. And he is an asshole.¡± Quinn looked up from her feverish cleaning of the countertops, ¡°How so?¡± ¡°He¡¯s just¡­just rubs you the wrong way, you know? Speaks quickly, snaps at you if you interrupt him. Just not very pleasant.¡± ¡°Are my ears burning or are you talking about me?¡± A young voice called out from the doorway. Quinn looked up. The person walked in out of The Cosmic Corridor, and she gasped at his adonis-like form. Golden skin with chiseled muscle, a jawline that could cut glass, a nose that could only be described as deific, deep, sky-blue eyes, and a dashing crop of equally blue hair that was tied up in a warrior¡¯s bun. ¡°Hi! Mr. Levi. I¡¯m Qui-¡± ¡°I know who you are,¡± he snapped back at her. But he didn¡¯t look at her. He looked at Mizarion and crossed his arms. Despite the more friendly Ascendant standing taller, the sheer cockiness oozing out of Levi¡¯s every movement and syllable uttered left no doubt as to who felt they were stronger. ¡°So, Miz.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t call me that,¡± Mizarion growled. Levi shrugged, ¡°I¡¯m here to pick up the package.¡± Quinn raised her hand, ¡°Umm, I have it, Mr. Levi.¡± The golden-skinned man turned to her and strode over, flashing her a quick smile. ¡°Ah, one our newest faction additions. At least, the most valuable of the newest ones.¡± He lightly gripped her hand, pulled it to his lips, and kissed it gently. Quinn pulled her hand away as if a slimy tentacle had gripped it and tried to drag her into the abyss. ¡°Ew! Sorry, um-¡± Levi¡¯s eye quivered in affront, but he just put on a dashing smile and chuckled. ¡°Ah, I get it. You¡¯re not into men. Totally respect that.¡± He smirked and looked over at Mizarion, ¡°Miz, you her type? The brooding, not-in-shap-¡± Mizarion stomped over and an ominous, crackling static charged the air as Quinn¡¯s hair stood on end. ¡°Back off, Levi. Just get the package and go.¡± Levi smirked and looked around the countertop, ¡°I don¡¯t see a package.¡± Quinn reached behind and under the counter and pulled the deep, orange package up to the countertop. ¡°Here you g-¡± ¡°Thanks,¡± he said, cutting her off as he picked up the package. ¡°This baby is off to Earth. Gonna try and win over some guy named the President.¡± Quinn¡¯s eyebrow shot up with curiosity, ¡°Of where?¡± Levi shrugged, ¡°No clue. I know the flag is red, white, and blue.¡± Quinn smirked, ¡°Ah, the seppo.¡± Mizarion¡¯s demeanor shifted to one of confusion - as did Levi¡¯s. ¡°Sorry?¡± both said in tandem. ¡°Ah, the Americans.¡± Mizarion frowned, ¡°The people that farm these?¡± he asked as he produced a banana. ¡°Some company called Dole?¡± Quinn nodded, ¡°Yup. That country has one of the strongest militaries on Earth.¡± Levi nodded, ¡°Then that¡¯s where I¡¯m off to. Hopefully, this will sway them to our side and away from the Nebula Alliance.¡± He waved and flashed Quinn a smile once more, ¡°If you¡¯re ever interested in the most impressive, masculine man around, give me a shout.¡± Quinn just smiled her customer-service smile until he left, and then she leaned forward onto the counter and let out an exasperated groan. Why do they hit on me? She thought. But then her mind began working; assisted by the Cybermind Mk. 4 boosting her mental faculties. If America is on the fence about factions, then that means the Nebula Alliance isn¡¯t¡¯ making as solid of inroads as reports have led me to believe. She knew that the Pulsar Coalition was keeping the Black Hole Conclave from getting too involved with Earth. The Planetary Independence Pact and Nebula Alliance were the two front-runners for the dominant force on Earth - with the former planning on placing an Ascendant there to run things until an Earth-born Ascendant grew strong enough to take over for them. But the Nebula Alliance¡­they were very much of the same mindset as the various corporations that had begun to take over Earth before Cosmogenic Merging. Quinn knew that no matter what the Planetary Independence Pact or the Star Council did, the corporations would win out, and the Nebula Alliance would take over the world. It would mean a megacorporation hellscape. People would be trapped there, without the chance of getting out to The Eternal City. ¡°Can we do anything?¡± she asked Mizarion. The man was mid-way through eating the banana - peel on - like it was corn-on-the-cob. She winced at the way he was eating it, and he shrugged. ¡°Probably not. Earth seems like it¡¯s going to go the way of the Nebula Alliance. If the Star Council can win this one, strong, military-focused country to our side though? We could stave it off for a while.¡± He took another bite. ¡°Could the Star Council team up with the Planetary Independence Pact to try and push the Nebula Alliance out?¡± ¡°I¡¯m sure Star Dad has thought of that.¡± He finished munching down the banana and frowned, ¡°But¡­there might be a reason why he hasn¡¯t acted yet.¡± ¡°Why?¡± ¡°Have you heard of X?¡± ¡°...I have.¡± Mizarion smirked, ¡°Well, whoever X is may end up getting involved as well. We¡¯ll see. Who knows? We might even get lucky and see someone from the Dark Between Stars.¡± ¡°Who?¡± Mizarion grinned and leaned forward. ¡°If you really want to learn, we should go talk to the Star Council historian. Come on! You¡¯re due a day off anyhow. And every Aspirant should learn about The Cosmic System.¡± Chapter 19 – Ice, ice, lady
Days passed and Jace continued his journey across the broken landscape. He had stumbled across a road, and after consulting Ollie¡¯s map, found that the cracked, stone walkway more-or-less led to where they were going. He was not wanting for shelter after the third day. Small villages with twenty-to-thirty houses were spaced out along the road or not too far from it ¨C like the suburbs that rich people lived in back on Earth. He was able to hole up and get a decent night¡¯s rest. For some reason, the wildlife avoided the remains of the buildings ¨C but he slept with his sword in hand just in case. On the horizon he spotted the skyline of a city. ¡°Any information on this place?¡± Jace asked as he continued to trudge along. Ollie¡¯s eyes went black, ¡°Accessing¡­¡± he shook his head, and the light returned to his vision, ¡°Ah, this was one of their places of leisure. Like Las Vegas from Earth. This is where people would come to experience all types of interesting attractions.¡± Movement in the corner of Jace¡¯s vision stood out to him. Atop one of the skyscrapers that went up at least four-hundred feet, he saw a flickering light. ¡°Did anyone from this civilization stay post-Cosmogenic Merging?¡± ¡°Yup. A few. Those that were affected by the magitech nanite swarm. They were part of the ¡®hive mind¡¯ of sorts. Now? They are little more than¡­the best equivalent on Earth would be zombies.¡± ¡°Really? Slow, shambl-¡± ¡°No-no-no!¡± Ollie replied. ¡°They are fast. And they are not¡­dumb. Just animalistic. Their higher reasoning was replaced by the hive mind, and so when it was stopped, they were left with their base instincts.¡± ¡°What you¡¯re saying is they¡¯re not really human?¡± Ollie laughed, ¡°I mean they were never human. The native humanoid species that dominated the world were called Velenian.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Clear the Glimmerdust Skyscraper resort Complex.] [Time Limit: 12 hours.] [Reward: Legendary (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Would you look at that,¡± Ollie said with a grin. ¡°Xera is still feeding you impressive Quest rewards.¡± Yeah. It is nice having these Legendary rarity rewards tossed my way. ¡°Clearing a whole skyscraper is going to be tedious.¡± ¡°First things first! Get to the city proper.¡±
The mako-shark swam through the air alongside the armored woman. ¡°New information,¡± it growled. ¡°A System query occurred one-hundred miles to the North-East. If the target is traveling towards the portal from their last known location, then they are most likely the one who sent the query.¡± The three-dimensional map of the world appeared just above and in front of the armored woman. ¡°Zoom in and highlight the best path,¡± she muttered. The map zoomed in and displayed a route that went along one of the cracked roads that her hypercycle could traverse. ¡°Let the faction know we¡¯re almost there.¡± She pulled up the Quest message to remind her of the sweet, sweet reward waiting for her if she succeeded. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Recover the Cyberconnect Integration Fluid.] [Time Limit: Unlimited.] [Reward: Equipment (Epic) Boon.] [Sender: Nebula Alliance.] <<<<<>>>>> She pushed the hypercycle to its top speed as she traversed the shattered road, heading towards her prey.
Jace entered the city proper and looked up in awe at the enormous buildings. They were not made like the buildings on Earth ¨C from concrete, stone, and steel. These buildings were fully made of dull, green metal. The way the light from the three suns reflected off them revealed tracing, winding lines of silver that intersected with the green. There were no windows as far as he could tell. There were streetlights lining the road that were the same design as the lights within the bunker ¨Cbronze or copper casing around what should be an illuminated, sparking core. Old advertisements ¨C painted onto large wooden panels ¨C had rotted away and could barely be read. The streets were completely empty. ¡°Did they have transports of some kind?¡± ¡°Yup. Magitech vehicles that ran off arc reactor. I am surprised there are not any out here abandoned.¡± Jace traced the pattern with his fingers to manifest Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2) and Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending]. The tower shield manifested on his grapnel arm, and his whole sword ignited with the deep, purple energy with the crimson core. He felt slightly winded and had to catch his breath as the energy expenditure drained him of stamina. He shut his eyes and focused on his sense of hearing. He heard the sharp howling of the wind through the buildings, blowing through the different alleys and buildings with high speed. Far above, he could hear the slight thwap of cloth that was flapping in the wind. ¡°Doesn¡¯t sound like there¡¯s anything hostile nearby,¡± he muttered as he opened his eyes. Ollie pointed at a building a few blocks down the road, ¡°There¡¯s the Complex.¡± He twirled in the air and ascended to his maximum tether height. ¡°Doesn¡¯t look like anything¡¯s approaching.¡± Jace nodded and headed to the building. The front doors were the same metal as the exterior of the building but were a deep green color. Glimmerdust Skyscraper was written in silver letters along the front of the building, along with the words resort and pleasure den. Jace raised a clawed leg and kicked forward. The door slightly dented. Damn, tough stuff. He kicked out twice more ¨C the door bending inward each time. Each kick led to an enormous clang noise that echoed throughout the city and surely alerted these zombie-like creatures that Jace was present. ¡°What is this made of?¡± he asked as he pulled his leg back. ¡°No clue,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°Give it a few more kicks.¡± ¡°Alright,¡± Jace muttered as he did so, kicking in with his powerful prosthetic over and over. Finally, he had bent the door inward enough that he could squeeze through the gap. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 1.] [Number of foes to clear out: 18.] <<<<<>>>>> All right. Into the breach. Squeezing through, he found himself in a lobby. His vision shifted to the purple hue as the light from outside could not penetrate the darkened interior. Sumptuous couches with end tables were spaced out all around. Dust coated every surface, and he could smell the scent of mildew as some of the bits of furniture had been soaked in ages past. There were a series of elevators next to a large set of stairs that doubled back on themselves, ascending higher. Jace walked over to the counter and jumped behind it. There were a series of cubby holes with a small keyhole on the front. ¡°Must be where they keep the room keys,¡± Jace commented. ¡°I do not think there¡¯s any need,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°I doubt anything you find is going to be more valuable than what you have already acquired.¡± ¡°Fair point,¡± Jace replied. He headed to the elevator and tapped the button. Nothing happened. ¡°As expected,¡± he muttered. ¡°You could go find the maintenance area and try to turn on an arc reactor.¡± ¡°I¡¯d need a big jolt of magic to do that, right?¡± ¡°You have an ability that lets you shoot Dark Matter.¡± Jace frowned, ¡°Does that count?¡± ¡°Maybe? I do not know. This is all new to me, too.¡± Jace nodded and went back behind the counter, opening a door that was labeled for employees only. He saw a series of lockers, and beyond that a door labeled maintenance. The door was open, and he walked down a set of stairs until he was in the basement. Something had flooded the space, and there was a layer of greyish water. At the back of the chamber, he spotted one of the arc reactors. ¡°So, what? I just shoot it with a Dark Matter Dart?¡± ¡°Give it a try.¡± Jace raised his sword and pointed it at the generator. Dark Matter Dart (Rank 1). A bolt of deep purple energy in the shape of a short, sharp stick launched out from the tip of the blade. It raced forward and slammed into the arc reactor, going right through the device and boring into the far wall. Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. ¡°Welp, that did not work,¡± Ollie muttered. Jace sighed and turned back to the stairs, heading up to the lobby and then looking up at the enormous double-back stairs leading higher. ¡°Looks like I get to walk up then.¡± ¡°Cheer up, it¡¯s only fifty stories.¡± Jace groaned and began trudging up.
She slowed the hypercycle and activated the silent-running mode. It would cause the vehicle to heat up, but due to her Nebula powers, she could simply encrust her weapon in ice and tap it to the engine to keep things cool. ¡°He¡¯s close,¡± the mako-shark Wayfinder commented. ¡°In that city.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a big place,¡± She muttered. ¡°How will we find him?¡± ¡°Just wait to hear sounds of combat.¡±
Jace did not feel much strain on his legs ¨C but his hip flexors were burning. He had to stop a few times on the landings of some floors to stretch those out and catch his breath. Don¡¯t want to be out of breath when I end up finding these things, he thought. For some reason they had not gone downstairs when he had made so much noise breaking in. The only reasoning he had was that these zombie-like things he was supposed to be finding up here just had crappy hearing. It did not make much sense if they were more animalistic, but then again Jace did not know what normal was anymore. He was wielding a sword ¨C something he had never, ever thought he would be doing. Not to mention the magitech prosthetics and Dark Matter powers. On the 48th floor, he heard a noise. It was faint, but he could make out a sound of chattering. Some type of communication that did not rise to the level of intelligible and translatable by his Universal Translation Skill. Holding his sword and shield at the ready, he slowly ascended the stairs to the next level. There was a loud shriek that came from right above him and made him jump. Reflexively, he moved the tower shield up to cover his head, and he had to tense his legs in a squat as a heavy weight landed on it. The same type of humanoid creature that he had found desiccated in the bunker, but this one was crusted with the magitech nanites and had a bit more meat on its bones. It tried to flail around the shield to grab Jace. Glancing over, an idea popped into his head. He slightly tipped the shield to his side and bucked up from the squat position. This tossed the creature off the shield and down the small gap running down the stairs. It crunched and slammed into the different landings before something snapped. One down. These things are weak. This shouldn¡¯t be a problem if I can funnel them onto one of the landings or keep them on the stairs. There were more shrieks coming from further up, and he grinned as he pushed up the stairs. ¡°Come on!¡± he shouted, feeling supremely confident in his abilities. ¡°Bring it!¡± Oliver whooped next to him but then turned around, ¡°I¡¯ll watch your back!¡± He charged up the stairs and saw a group of the creatures coming down from higher up. With a single slice, he carved the first one in half ¨C their lack of any type of exterior shell making them an insignificant threat compared to the predators he had been fighting. Is it this easy to kill people? He thought. Well, used-to-be people. The ease at which he was dispatching them with shocked him. I¡¯m curious, he dismissed the shield and tried punching one of them. The magitech limb, combined with the strength increase from the serum injected into him, resulted in a blood-laced, gory explosion as the punch decapitated his target. Goddamn! They¡¯re so¡­flimsy. Perfect time to test out these legs. He backed away down the hallway from the landing, luring the creatures out of the stairwell and past their dead companions. ¡°What are you doing?¡± Ollie asked. ¡°Practicing,¡± Jace replied as he jumped straight up, flipped upside-down, and latched his claw-feet onto the ceiling. Reorienting himself was jarring, and he felt the blood begin to rush to his head instantly ¨C but he had to get used to this feeling. Fighting in an unconventional way like this would be useful against foes who could think. And this fodder was perfect practice. Thanks to Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), even though he was slightly disoriented, his body perfectly weaved a web of strikes before him. Each foe that approached was carved apart. They were dying so quickly to singular strikes that he could not even see the Dark Matter Blade¡¯s (Rank 5) or [Rending] effects. I need to know what that looks like, he thought. There were only two of the creatures left. He dispatched one with ease, and then flipped back down to an upright position as the last one charged at him. Nonlethal, he thought as he waited for it to come closer. His body instinctually responded to his will, and he sidestepped the charge. He smacked the creature in the head with the hilt of the weapon. It crumpled to the ground, dazed, and he followed up with a stab through the thigh. The creature screeched, and Jace saw the effects take hold. The purple glow of the slowing effect spread more rapidly, and he could see small, black dots sparkled amongst the purple glow ¨C the micro-singularities that were causing constant harm. Underneath the purple glow, there was a deep, crimson nebula that slowly spread through the thigh and gushed out of the humanoid zombie-like entity. It shrieked and tried to turn around, but Jace planted his foot-claw on its back. The purple and crimson spread up through the thing¡¯s body, and it expired once the glow had reached its midsection. It must¡¯ve bled out. He kicked it over and saw the large pool of black underneath where it lay. ¡°Ollie, dust them.¡± Ollie nodded and held up his paw as Jace walked back towards the staircase. The bodies vanished and flooded towards the otter. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 180.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Clear the Glimmerdust Skyscraper resort Complex.] [Time Limit: 12 hours.] [Reward: Legendary (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Alright, let¡¯s hold onto that Boon,¡± Jace stated. Ollie nodded, ¡°Ready to head out?¡± Jace looked up the staircase, ¡°I¡¯m only two floors from the top. Might as well get up high and then get a good look at where we¡¯re going next.¡±
She brought her hypercycle to a stop right in front of a skyscraper that doubled as a resort. The doorway was kicked in. She put the kickstand down and reached back into the cargo pod mounted to the side of the vehicle. She pulled out a shotgun, racked the slide, loaded it, and then slung it on her back. Last, she grabbed two grenades ¨C one filled with sticky webbing meant to incapacitate, and another that would send out an EMP pulse. ¡°I can¡¯t find any information on this place,¡± the mako-shark commented as it swam around her head. ¡°The Complex was entered just-¡± She heard a battle cry from somewhere high up. ¡°Sounds like he¡¯s still up there.¡± She took a deep breath and focused her will. Her armor crusted over with razor-sharp spikes of ice that would deflect blows and protect her from harm. Her large hammer grew the rime spikes that oozed out a deep, radiating cold. She could not make it through the crack in the door caused by blunt force. ¡°They must be weak,¡± she muttered as she lifted her servo-assisted foot and kicked the door into the lobby with a resounding crack and thud. She walked in and her vision shifted to a pale blue color as darkness set in around her. ¡°The stairs,¡± the mako-shark commented. ¡°No shit.¡± She rumbled out as she walked to the stairs. A loud crack above her caught her attention, and she spotted a corpse of some creature ¨C sliced in half and oozing a miasmic purple and crimson hue ¨C come rocketing down towards her through the gap at the center of the staircase. ¡°Huh.¡± It splatted against the ground floor ¨C still partly intact. Her mako-shark Wayfinder hovered over the corpse and its eyes went deep, black. ¡°Oh¡­that is not good. Stand by.¡± She stood there, waiting, hearing combat from far up. ¡°Hurry up.¡± ¡°That¡¯s a Dark Matter Skill,¡± the shark replied as its eyes went deep, dark black. ¡°I didn¡¯t see that as an option,¡± she replied. ¡°It is not an option. That is why it is weird¡­it is like they made the Cosmic Power source. I am being blocked from finding more information from the effects on the corpse. I need to see the Aspirant to query the System.¡± ¡°Right.¡± She began walking up the stairs, feeling the anticipation building and her heart thumping at the impending brawl with this secret power user.
Jace got to the door leading to the roof and opened it with ease. The metal swung outward, and he stepped onto the roof. Almost immediately he gagged at the wretched smell. He leaned over and retched. Piles of refuse and feces were splattered all around the rooftop entrance. ¡°Is this where they-¡± ¡°Their bathroom, apparently.¡± Ollie pointed to the left, ¡°Looks like there is a clear path there.¡± Jace carefully moved around the piles of refuse as he made for the front of the building. Thankfully, once he got around the doorway leading to the stairs, the wind carried the foul odors away from him and he could breathe clean air. He stood on an open space with a spire of metal extending up higher ¨C an antenna. Walking to the edge of the building, he clamped his feet and leaned over. ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± he asked, pointing at a motorcycle. Ollie floated over the edge, ¡°Querying¡­That¡¯s a General Logistics hypercycle.¡± ¡°Shit,¡± Jace replied as he scanned the street below for any sign of the individual who he had been warned was hunting him down. ¡°They must¡¯ve gone into the building.¡± Ollie chuckled, ¡°You could be a real bastard if you wanted. Just use your grapnel and the legs to get down along the exterior of the building¡­steal the cycle.¡± ¡°That¡¯s a good id-¡± Jace stopped speaking as he felt a chill across his flesh. Not a chill of fear. A very real, biting cold that spread from his back and radiated outward. It sent his teeth to chatter, and he felt his body start to lock up. ¡°Crap!¡± Ollie shouted out as he turned in space to look behind Jace. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3), Jace thought. The bubble popped into place around him, and he breathed a sigh of relief as the cold feeling faded. But he felt weaker and a little tired from the activation of the Skill. Spinning around, he felt an actual trace of fear down his spine. A person in the heaviest armor he had ever seen was lowering their hand as ice trickled from their palm. Her body was fully covered in icy protrusions and waves of visible frigid air flowed from her. Her right hand held a massive hammer with what looked to be an exhaust pipe on the back. ¡°You have something I want." Chapter 20 – What are claws if not foot-knives?
Jace patted his messenger bag that was slung alongside his duffel bag. ¡°Right here,¡± he lied. "Got some left over from that animal attack." "I don''t want you, just the goods." She kept her palm raised, ¡°Throw the bag to me.¡± Her voice was harsh and demanding. Gruff and coarse, as if she had spent years screaming orders. Good thing it¡¯s filled with water, Jace thought as he knew the shifting form would make her think it was filled with the ferrofluid. He used his prosthetic arm to remove the bag from around his shoulder and held it over the ledge. ¡°Not a step closer.¡± She lowered her hand, ¡°Terms?¡± Jace put the bag back on his shoulder, ¡°You want the bag? Slowly walk towards me, and I¡¯ll give it to you.¡± He spotted a shark Wayfinder hovering just behind the person. Ollie flew behind him and whispered, ¡°He is querying the system! You have to get within ten feet so I can stop him. Xera¡¯s restrictions can only keep him out for five minutes, tops. But that timer resets if I can get close.¡± The woman nodded and began to slowly approach. Jace whispered back to Ollie, ¡°If we can get out of here, I think it¡¯ll be fi-¡± ¡°If he finishes the query, then people will know your Cosmic Power, Class, Tier, and if enough time is spent querying, he could even find out your real name and faction. He does not need you to stay in line of sight for it.¡± Damnit. Jace knew that if all that information got out, then he would not be as useful an asset to Xera. That would lead to less rare rewards, and a loss of progression pace. ¡°Ten feet?¡± ¡°Ten feet,¡± Ollie confirmed. Jace nodded. Thankfully, he still had his sword in his left hand ¨C and it was completely invisible to his opponent. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± he asked. ¡°Henrietta,¡± the woman replied as she got closer. ¡°Flicker,¡± Jace replied, and he began to walk toward her. ¡°I was going to deliver it, you know. I just got caught up in the whole Cosmogenesis thing.¡± She shrugged, ¡°You¡¯re on the blacklist as a courier. Took too long. Also, they want your feet repo¡¯d.¡± ¡°Closer,¡± Ollie whispered. ¡°The feet got shredded,¡± Jace replied. ¡°I got new legs from a Quest, want to see?¡± He poured as much enthusiasm and naivete as he could into his tone. ¡°Sure,¡± she stated plainly without interest as she moved closer. "Give me the ferrofluid, and you can lea-" ¡°Otter punch!¡± Ollie flew forward and slammed into the mako-shark ¨C who up until that point was just hovering behind Henrietta. Ollie¡¯s paw smacked into it, and it writhed before the two began fighting with each other. It was almost humorous, as they could not hurt each other. But Jace knew that neither would be able to interact with The Cosmic System while engaged. He could focus on the threat in front of him. Henrietta raised her left hand. A cascading icy-blue mist exuded from her palm and rushed towards Jace. ¡°I should¡¯ve guessed you¡¯d try something sneaky.¡± Jace ran to the right in a tight circle ¨C keeping close enough for Ollie to do his thing ¨C and got out of the bulk of the misty cone-shaped Skill. It did touch his left side, and he felt himself grow more tired as his Dark Matter Shield sapped his energy to prevent the bone-chilling frost from reaching him. Raising his prosthetic, he thumbed the release. It shot right past her, and he activated the retraction as it planted into the wall behind her. Shooting forward, he released the cable as he got into range with her and swung his still-invisible weapon. He caught her by surprise, and the blade did not cut into the armor but did carve a gash across the front. The purple miasma began to spread, and she let out a scream of rage. The icy shell around her exploded, and Jace felt extremely tired as he took the point-blank effect head-on, his shield draining even more energy. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 1). The barrier shifted, and he had the heater shield on his right forearm. She swung her frost-laden hammer at him, and he could feel the cool rush of air streaming off the weapon, setting his teeth to chatter. He put his shield up and caught the blow. If not for the magitech prosthetic, he was sure that the force of the blow would have broken his arm. But it held firm. Almost faster than he could react, the woman drew a stockless shotgun from her back and aimed it at Jace¡¯s torso. Nope! He moved in close to her and sliced at the shotgun, cutting it in two at the breach, disabling the weapon. She let it drop to the ground and brought down the hammer once more. To both of their surprise, he was able to duck under her blow as his legs bent in the opposite direction; as if his body was guiding itself to safety thanks to the Swordmage Stance Skill. Oh, that¡¯s useful. Jace used the moment of her being off guard to spin his body around as he came up, slicing along the backside of her arm as her momentum carried her by. The icy shell gone; the dark, purple energy spread over her armor as the slowing effect took its hold. Within the purple, tiny singularities slowly shredded the armor, and the deep crimson nebula burrowed deep. He could see the blood seeping out from her injury. She swung the hammer back at him again. But he kept to her backhand and pivoted with her. Starfire Stride, he thought as he activated the Dragonclaw Devastation Legs¡¯ once per day Skill. His lower body flared with a deep crimson for a moment before a neon purple flame consumed the foot-claws. Wherever his feet touched, the trail of fire burned bright. ¡°Just stay still!¡± she shouted as she pulled out a grenade. Jace jumped back away from her, counting seconds in his head until the fire effect would fade. She brought the grenade up to her teeth, pulled the pin, and threw it on the ground in front of him. Jace had never seen the design before, and he winced slightly as static electricity filled the air as the sides of the object opened. An EMP grenade? He smiled as he knew that Dark Matter being his Cosmic Power meant that electricity and magnetism would not affect him. He took advantage of Henrietta¡¯s momentary lapse from confusion and leaped forward ¨C propelled by his powerful prosthetics. She swung out with the hammer once more, and he got his shield in the way to deflect the blow and swing her off balance. She turned with the spin, drew another grenade, and threw it directly at his feet ¨C all in a single, deft movement demonstrating her battle prowess. There was an explosion of yellow goop that quickly spread and caused Jace to slow down as it coated him in the foam-like substance. For all of a second. The foam was ignited from the fire trail he was leaving ¨C and both combatants were standing in a blazing inferno as the flame spread. She screamed in pain and her body exuded a cool, icy mist as the flames began to die out. But Jace was unaffected, as they originated from his prosthetic¡¯s innate Skill. He took advantage of that and slashed her twice more before she had fully recovered. The purple and crimson nebula slowly spread over her armor from the two wounds.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. ¡°Just die!¡± she shouted as she slammed her hammer into the ground. An explosion of sharp, icy spikes shot up from the ground. Jace jumped straight up ten feet, aimed his grapple up at the antenna, and tethered himself to it as the ice below began to radiate a freezing mist that extinguished his flames. Dark Matter Dart (Rank 2), he thought, pointing his sword at the woman. The Skill launched all three darts at her torso, and they tore through the chest armor. Blood seeped from her body before the armor released some type of medical foam that sealed the wounds. Jace felt so, so sleepy, but forced himself to keep his eyes open. The woman below him was heaving from exertion as well, and the icy ground faded away. Jace let himself drop down to the roof once more and assumed a dueling stance with his shield in front of him and his sword extended to his left side. ¡°Just give up,¡± he said confidently, grinning to put her off her game. ¡°I have plenty of energy. I can do this all day.¡± She shook her head and turned on him, ¡°You¡¯re exhausted, just like me.¡± She hefted the icy hammer and grinned, ¡°A straight-up brawl.¡± Jace smirked, ¡°You¡¯ll lose. If you haven¡¯t noticed, I¡¯m kicking your ass.¡± She used her left hand to tap a button on the armor. There was a loud fwsh noise as some type of liquid flooded either into the armor or possibly into her. She charged forward and thumbed the hammer¡¯s rocket ¨C imbuing her swing with insane force. Jace took the blow on his shield and dug his claws into the rooftop. To the woman¡¯s surprise, her strongest blow did not even make him waver, and Jace just grinned at her. He slashed at her wrist at the same time he pushed her hammer away with the shield. She was huffing inside the armor, ¡°This isn¡¯t worth the money,¡± she let the hammer fall to her side, and he heard a laugh come from her. ¡°This just isn¡¯t worth it.¡± Liar. Jace knew a lie when he heard one. He stepped forward and stabbed into her torso. She looked up and him, the helmet a faceless visage, and she grabbed his left, real arm with her hand. Jace cried out in pain as he felt the crushing strength that threatened to snap it in half. She raised the hammer in the other hand and brought it down. He barely got his shield in the way in time. ¡°Not falling for that, eh?¡± She slid her hand down to his and squeezed ¨C breaking his fingers. Jace screamed in pain as he was forced to let go of the blade which became visible as the auras faded. ¡°Oh, invisible sword. Neat trick.¡± Jace backed away when she let go to grab at the sword, pulled it out of herself, and threw it aside. The miasmic glow spread from her torso ¨C but the wound foam that the armor kept pumping out seemed to counteract the effect. She kicked the sword further away. Think Jace. What else can you do? He could try and use the grapple line as a means of injuring her. Or he could just try to keep his distance and hope the [Rending] effect would finish her off. She ran forward with speed that caught him off guard, as she covered the space quickly despite the purple miasma surrounding her. If she were not slowed, he was sure he would have been dead by now. She brought a crushing forehand swing across his body, and Jace barely got his shield in the way. Instead of stopping the blow, he let himself spin with the momentum. She swung with a backhand swing, and he deftly jumped backward. The two kept this pace, back and forth with her on the offensive and him dodging or blocking. The miasma did not spread any further and even started to recede. The purple, at least. The crimson continued as per the Evolution version of the Skill. Jace¡¯s breath was coming to him in ragged inhalations. I need to put her down. Then, an idea popped into his head. Aren¡¯t claws sort of like knives? Might as well try it. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending]. Jace saw his legs imbued with the purple and crimson light. He felt exhaustion kick in and almost fell to his knees from the tiredness that washed over him. To her view, his legs vanished, and he was a floating midsection. ¡°The hell did you just do?¡± She shouted. He smirked and waited for her next blow. She came in with another backhand, and he blocked with the shield once more, spinning with the blow as he performed a kick, feeling his claw impact ¨C he latched down. The armor crunched where he gripped her by the abdomen, and he could feel the crumpling metal give way as he dug into the flesh underneath. The crimson and purple began to spread once more. She tried to turn to get at him, but Jace just let go and pulled his foot back ¨C she could not find it and failed to grab anything. She followed the grab with a shoulder check ¨C and this pushed Jace out over the edge of the skyscraper. He began to fall and felt gravity take hold. Ollie was tugged away from his Wayfinder combat and shouted in alarm at the sudden jerking of his tether tying him to stay within ten feet of Jace, ¡°This isn¡¯t good!¡± he shouted in panic. Jace aimed his prosthetic arm at the edge of the building and fired out the grapple. It sank into the metal building, and he swung in towards the side of the structure, stopping his momentum with his feet. Thumbing the retract button, he ascended, kicking off to build some side-to-side momentum. Henrietta¡¯s head appeared over the edge of the building, and he slammed into that with his clawed foot. Releasing the grapnel with a button press, his momentum carried the two forward and caused the armored woman to fall flat on her back. Jace jammed his other clawed foot down into her torso ¨C using the gash carved by his sword to get deeper. He opened and closed the foot claws over and over ¨C shredding her organs as blood spurted up and out of the wound. The mako-shark that Ollie was fighting vanished as the woman ceased moving. Jace let out an exhausted groan as he stepped out of the woman¡¯s torso and shook the viscera from his feet. ¡°Damn¡­¡± he sat down and took in deep breaths. Ollie flew over to him and landed on his knee. ¡°You beat a hostile Aspirant. Excellent job. Second one you have dealt with.¡± Jace felt the adrenaline fading and the need to sleep crept up on him with even more strength. ¡°Dust her,¡± he muttered. Ollie nodded, raised his little paw, and the corpse vanished into glimmering starlight. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 100.] <<<<<>>>>> Ollie nodded, ¡°She was worth a good amount. It makes sense, since Earth is a Tier 2 world.¡± ¡°Sword?¡± Jace asked weakly. Ollie pointed to it, and Jace pushed himself to his feet, walked over to his sword, picked it up with the prosthetic arm, and sheathed it. ¡°Those fingers look like they¡¯re in rough shape,¡± Ollie commented. Jace nodded, ¡°I have bandages to set the breaks.¡± He opened the duffel bag and pulled out the medical kit. Inside he found a bottle of pills that were the equivalent of painkillers. He popped several into his mouth before dry swallowing them. Next, he set to work pulling the bones back into place. This was the worst part, and he bit down on the one shoe he still had in his gear to muffle his cries of pain. Just do it! Get the worst of it over! The bones were definitely broken, but Jace had dealt with that before and was able to get them into the right position where they could heal up. After splinting each finger, he bound them all together with clean bandages before refitting the glove to hold everything in place. As the painkillers set in ¨C faster than he expected ¨C he felt himself drifting off to sleep. ¡°Don¡¯t let me fall asleep,¡± he muttered. ¡°Not safe.¡± He felt himself slipping from consciousness despite trying to fight back against it. Ollie flew in front of his face and nodded, ¡°Time to make the most annoying sound that you will not be able to sleep through.¡± He took in a deep breath and began¡­screaming. It was an odd noise to hear, as it came out at a very deep pitch, and the absurdity of the situation made Jace weakly laugh. ¡°What the hell was that?¡± Ollie stopped and frowned, crossing his arms. ¡°The most annoying sound I could think of.¡± Jace kept laughing ¨C perhaps out of exhaustion, or the sheer stupidity of the situation, or the elation of living through a near-death experience. It kept him wide awake for a few more minutes. ¡°Thanks.¡± He got up and made his way back into the skyscraper, holding his breath as he walked past the roof entrance. Descending to the top floor, he found the penthouse suite, shut and barricaded the door, and then collapsed onto the luxurious bed. ? Chapter 21 – A little history and a new ride
The streets of Khrox, The Eternal City, were bustling with the morning commute of the citizenry. Shops and businesses of all kinds had transplanted themselves from their home worlds to Khrox proper. Stardust was the universal currency of the realm. Natural resources were not created spontaneously in the multi-dimensional space between reality and the unreal, and thus the competition to incorporate new worlds by factions was fierce. Greg left Missy¡¯s building ¨C a massive skyscraper that extended far, far up into the bright, white sky above. Not a piercing white, but a warm, cream white that gave a sense of sterility and comfort. Focus on where you want to go. He began walking down the street. There were no vehicles, and so the wide boulevards of black stone were paced out by thousands upon millions of people. The sheer vastness of the species variety still blew Greg¡¯s mind. Most were humanoid with alterations that made them quite distinct from humans, but there were plenty of weird aliens that were decidedly not bipedal humanoids. Greg knew that if you just focused on a location, within a minute of walking you would arrive there. Space would warp without you noticing it, and you would just arrive at your destination. Meet up with Quinn. He kept walking forward, counting down the seconds in his mind as he glanced at the other Aspirants spread throughout the Civilians. Some he gave curt nods of recognition to. Others, he avoided their gaze entirely. Darrin was latched onto his shoulder, the spectral, starry spider an ever-present fixture. Common courtesy was to have the Wayfinder for each Ascendant or Aspirant stick to the physical form of their bound Aspirant while inside The Eternal City. Greg felt the slight uneasy shift under his feet that signaled he had been walking long enough, and the world flashed before his eyes ¨C warping reality as he was on another street with different shops and new buildings. The one he found himself in front of called The Star Archive, as denoted by the brass metalwork on the front doors. ¡°Keep an eye on my back, would you?¡± he asked as he glanced down at Darrin. ¡°Roger,¡± the spider flipped about on his shoulder. In Khrox, Aspirants and Ascendants could engage in combat with each other. It was uncommon, but not unheard of ¨C and Greg had already barely avoided a fight with Pulsar Coalition Signers who wanted to ¡®convince¡¯ him to join their faction. Greg walked into the lobby of the building. There was a long, brass table that extended across a hallway entrance in front of him, and behind that table was a massive archive with thousands upon thousands of books, tomes, and data-screens. Seated at the table was a disheveled-looking humanoid figure. He was dressed in a very unkempt, ragged fashion. His skin was a bluish color, and his red eyes seemed sunken and hollow. A mop of ragged grey hair topped his head. Seated at the table with him were two other individuals. ¡°Hi there. Some person named Quinn here?¡± He had seen and accompanied her for a short time during his Aspirant Trial but didn''t recall much about her. That whole experience was a blur. This woman looked somewhat like her; but better safe to ask than assume. ¡°Good to meet you,¡± the grey-skinned man replied. ¡°This is Quinn Cipher, I¡¯m Mizarion, and this is Shuck. He¡¯s the Star Council¡¯s archivist and historian.¡± Greg nodded and looked at Quinn. Just with a brief glance, Greg knew she was heavy into cybernetics. The way her hand jerked slightly, and the way her eyes focused led him to no other conclusion. Amateur installation job , he thought. She must¡¯ve obtained them illicitly. Quinn smiled and gestured to the seat next to her, ¡°Please, I¡¯m sure you¡¯re interested in hearing about this opportunity.¡± Greg nodded and took the offered seat. The man named Shuck sighed and took a sip from a thermos, and the scent of something analogous to coffee smacked Greg¡¯s nostrils. ¡°Hey, you here to make fun of my writing, too?¡± Mizarion looked at the disheveled archivist, ¡°We would never make fun of your writing.¡± He looked over to Greg, ¡°We were actually just about to have a history lesson.¡± Quinn looked over at Greg and tapped a few buttons on her wrist-mounted interface. A golden screen popped up in the air, facing him. ¡°This is a bodyguard contract. Your services contracted out to defend me. The wage is 100 Stardust a month, courtesy of the Star Council.¡± Greg looked over at Mizarion who he knew from Darrin¡¯s System queries was a higher-up in the Star Council. ¡°Why not have one of your members guard her?¡± ¡°We¡¯re busy,¡± The man replied as he stood up. ¡°It¡¯s a good deal. Just stick around her at The Star Market, and if she needs to go off-world. Of course, if you go off-world, you¡¯ll get an additional stipend. It¡¯s all in that contract.¡± ¡°Darrin?¡± Greg asked as the spider wheeled around. ¡°Mind looking this over? I was never good at legal stuff.¡± The spider nodded and began tapping the hovering screen. Whilst he read it, Greg looked at Quinn, ¡°Why choose me? Hell, how¡¯d you know I even did private security back on Earth?¡± She smiled, ¡°Broker Class Skill. I looked at new Aspirants from our batch who had a background in guard work. It was you, or some lady named Henriette. I went with you, because I met that lady already and she didn¡¯t seem like she had time for my contract.¡± Her eyes whirred in her skull, zooming in or out ¨C Greg could not tell. ¡°Plus, you have a significant other in Khrox. You¡¯re already incentivized to live here. Why not work here, too?¡± Greg chuckled as Darrin gave him the nod. He signed the contract which vanished in a glimmer of gold. ¡°Well, I wouldn¡¯t mind just holding down a shop for a bit.¡± Mizarion stood up, ¡°With that, I take my leave. Quinn, pleasure collaborating with you for these few days. Shuck? Give them the history lesson, please.¡± Shuck sighed and nodded, ¡°Alright kiddos, grab a book.¡± As Mizarion left, Greg grabbed one of the books on the table. It was a deep green cover with a simple, black-lettered title. The Cosmic System ¨C Origins. ¡°Really? We have to read?¡± Shuck smirked and shook his head, ¡°Ah, my Class is Historian, my Advanced Class is Archivist. Just by reading that book, you¡¯ll get the information you need.¡± He clicked his tongue, ¡°But for some reason, all my work comes out as raunchy smut. Don¡¯t get me wrong, it is historically accurate, but it comes off as¡­well, you¡¯ll see for yourself.¡± Well, I am curious about this whole Cosmic System. Glancing over at Quinn, he saw her already a few pages in. If we¡¯re going to be here for a bit, I¡¯d rather do something instead of just sitting around. Greg opened the book cover and began reading the first page. The descriptions of The Architects, the species that designed The Cosmic System, were very elaborate. Every detail was meticulously laid out, but it was not described in an anatomical, textbook way. It was far more sensual than that. Greg looked over at Quinn and the two shared a look. I don¡¯t read much, but this guy is a freak. After reading for about an hour, Greg had finished the book and had a solid understanding of the origins of The Cosmic System. A species created it as the ultimate way to control and harness all possible power sources in the universe ¨C magic, technology, magitech ¨C everything that could generate energy. They used that to ¡®punch¡¯ a hole to a ¡®blank¡¯ reality that they could shape to their desires. All of them left, except for one system technician who stayed behind. No one knew who they were, but it was rumored to possibly be one of the older Ascendants. Quinn let out a sigh as she finished the book and closed it. ¡°Well¡­that¡¯s a lot of information.¡± Shuck had a look of eager anticipation on his face, ¡°So? Did you like it?¡± Greg chuckled, ¡°It was something. Can I take a copy home for my girlfriend?¡± The Archivist frowned, ¡°I assume for the sensual aspects?¡± Greg nodded, and Shuck groaned, ¡°Damnit! I always try to write boring, historical texts. But they always come out salacious.¡± ¡°This is good information, but what I wanted to know about was this hidden faction. The Dark Between Stars,¡± Quinn stated. Shuck¡¯s face paled, ¡°Oh shit. Those guys? Okay, hold on.¡± He stood up and walked into the colossal archive, vanishing into glimmering, white dust. A second passed, and he reappeared in the chair before the two, causing Quinn to jump. ¡°Let¡¯s see¡­ah! The Dark Between Stars. Want me to just get to the juicy bits?¡± ¡°Yes, please,¡± Quinn replied. Shuck cleared his throat, ¡°Ahem. The Cosmic System experienced an outbreak of conflicts between a faction once known as Twisted Apocrypha and the still existing but young Star Council. The Star Council was assisted by an unknown entity, wielding Cosmic Power that could not be quantified or identified. The individual designated themselves as a representative of the Dark Between Stars and fought against Twisted Apocrypha alongside the Star Council. The person destroyed the faction, and then vanished once more.¡± He put the book down, ¡°I removed the saucy bits from my summary.¡± Why is she looking into this secret faction? Greg thought as he looked at Quinn. She had a contemplative look on her face as her eyes continued to telescope inside her skull. What could she possibly want with some hidden, powerful group? After a few seconds, she spoke, ¡°Thank you.¡± She looked over at Greg, ¡°I¡¯m expecting one of these Dark Between Stars people to make a move on Earth.¡±If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. ¡°Why?¡± Greg and Shuck asked at the same time. ¡°The Star Council and Nebula Alliance both want it to join their list of controlled worlds.¡± Greg shrugged, ¡°Okay, and?¡± She sighed and stood up, ¡°I think this Dark Between Stars will get involved. I don¡¯t know which side, but their members ¨C historically, at least ¨C show up during faction conflict on a large scale.¡± She looked over to Shuck and dipped her head, ¡°Thank you for your time.¡± He nodded, ¡°Feel free to take copies of any book you want! They¡¯re free to the public.¡± Quinn led Greg out of the building, ¡°Let¡¯s head back to my shop.¡± She began walking down the street, and Greg was a step behind her. Protector¡¯s Vow, Greg thought as he targeted her. He saw the faint, brown symbol hovering above her head that denoted he was now going to get any damage aimed at her redirected.
Jace woke up in a wonderfully soft bed ¨C albeit a dusty one. Sitting up slowly, he felt intense, pulsing pain in his left hand. Right. Broken fingers. He sighed and rolled out of the bed. Digging through his satchel, he got his messenger bag and took several sips of the still-chilled water. That was followed up with two of the ration pouches. As he was finishing up his meal, the pop of Ollie manifested sounded off behind him. ¡°Hey. How¡¯d you sleep?¡± ¡°Well, all things considered,¡± Jace replied as he popped a few of the painkillers from the med kit. ¡°Ready to check out that hypercycle downstairs.¡± Ollie stopped moving and his eyes went black. His mouth opened, and Xera¡¯s voice came through. ¡°Hey, just giving you a quick update. First off ¨C good job at dealing with that other Aspirant.¡± Jace vividly recalled the gushing blood, and glancing down at his foot claws, saw the dried blood on them. For a moment, he felt a pang of remorse. But that was quickly pushed aside by the knowledge that the woman had attacked him from behind with an ice or cold Skill, and fully intended to get that package. Whether he was dead or not. ¡°I¡¯m okay,¡± he mumbled as he choked down another one of the painkillers. ¡°Well, I just wanted to remind you that you shouldn¡¯t leave Velenar Prime until you¡¯ve hit level 25. Stay there until the diminishing returns for Stardust accumulation kicks in.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Thanks for the Quests by the way.¡± ¡°I have to keep my Signers well equipped,¡± she replied. ¡°Any suggestions on where to go next?¡± ¡°Accessing the planetary reports, it looks like the Black Hole Conclave has some type of mining operation set up a few hundred miles away from you.¡± She went silent for several moments, and Jace sat in rapt attention waiting for her voice to return. ¡°Shit. They¡¯re drilling a borehole to the core.¡± ¡°That¡¯s bad why?¡± ¡°They want to install an engine that uses the planet¡¯s core as its energy source. One that would propel the planet to the black hole at the center of the universe. ¡®Feeding oblivion¡¯, as they would put it.¡± ¡°That doesn¡¯t sound good,¡± Jace stated. ¡°But wouldn¡¯t that take¡­millions of years?¡± ¡°Magic exists ¨C though it¡¯s a pain in the ass to wrangle into the constraints of a mechanical device. The engine they have can bypass the rules of physics. Faster than light, effectively. It¡¯s mostly running on magic ¨C however, that works.¡± ¡°Why not just propel stars into the black hole instead? That would be more matter than a planet, right?¡± Xera let out an exasperated sigh, ¡°I don¡¯t know why the Black Hole Conclave is only snagging worlds to propel to the center of the universe. There¡¯s plenty I don¡¯t understand about the more esoteric parts of The Cosmic System. My brother dealt with the magic and magitech stuff ¨C I primarily focused on the actual science and technology.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Sorry for being nosy.¡± It doesn¡¯t make much sense though, from the little I know. Stars are way bigger than planets. If they wanted to make this black hole bigger, they¡¯d want to feed it the biggest things possible, right? But, as she had said, magic and magitech also existed. It might not make sense to me, but I¡¯m sure it has some logic behind it. I just can¡¯t comprehend it. ¡°Alright. Destroy the engine. Seems simple enough.¡± ¡°I¡¯m going to set up a Quest. Give me a moment here-¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Stop the Black Hole Conclave¡¯s activities on Velenar Prime.] [Time Limit: 12 days.] [Reward: Stardust.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°You can give Stardust as a reward?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Couldn¡¯t you just give me all of the Stardust I needed to max out my levels?¡± Xera let out a disappointed sigh, ¡°I wish. But that is one of the safeguards in place when we first made The Cosmic System. The Stardust reward I¡¯ll be giving you is from my personal stores. And, that¡¯ll tap my funds for a good few days. I figured since the Black Hole Conclave Signers themselves won¡¯t be worth much, this would be the best way to ensure your progression.¡± ¡°Makes sense,¡± Jace replied. ¡°But¡­ I don¡¯t even have to kill anyone. Just stop their activity.¡± ¡°Correct. But they are fanatical devotees, every one of them. Hellbent on destroying the whole universe by feeding that supermassive black hole all matter in existence. Killing them isn¡¯t reprehensible. You¡¯d be making our reality a better place.¡± He nodded and began to pack up, ¡°Any ideas on how to stop them permanently?¡± ¡°On that world, destroying the engine they plan to install would set them back months. There¡¯s no way to permanently stop them from trying to take this planet and send it to the universe¡¯s center.¡± No way to permanently stop them. So, I¡¯ll be coming back here to disrupt over and over again¡­unless¡­ an idea popped into his head. ¡°Doesn¡¯t the Pulsar Coalition hate them? Can¡¯t we bring them in also?¡± ¡°Already on it. But they won¡¯t get there before the engine is installed. Once that¡¯s done, then the Black Hole Conclave will start to bulk up defenses around the engine. You need to strike while they¡¯re vulnerable.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Jace replied as he removed the barricades at the door. ¡°We¡¯ll give it our best shot.¡± ¡°Talk to you soon,¡± Xera said. Ollie¡¯s eyes returned to normal, and he shook his head. ¡°Exciting stuff, getting involved in faction conflicts.¡± Jace began walking down the hallway, to the stairs, and descended to the ground floor lobby. ¡°Yeah. Why do they want all the universe to be fed to this singularity?¡± Ollie¡¯s voice became dour and gruff, ¡°Troxanir, the Endless Hunger. The only Tier 9 Ascendant, and it claims to be a physical manifestation of that black hole. It started up the faction and promises a ¡®paradise¡¯ on the other side of the singularity.¡± ¡°Why don¡¯t the members of that faction just jump onto spaceships and fly to the center of the universe? Why take everyone with them?¡± ¡°It is sort of like a crusade. They want to ¡®save¡¯ everyone by forcing them through the singularity. The only way to do that is to grow the black hole by feeding it enough matter.¡± Jace went through the smashed-open doors and paused ten feet from the hypercycle. ¡°Can you pop over there and look for any traps?¡± Ollie flew forward, around and inside the machine. ¡°Nope. Looks like you are clear.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve never driven a vehicle,¡± Jace stated as he walked over and began opening the various compartments. He truly found little save for rations, water, a med kit, and fuel. ¡°How does a person even turn it on?¡± Ollie¡¯s eyes went black, and a few seconds passed. A screen appeared in front of Jace ¨C a simplified user¡¯s manual. ¡°Here you go.¡± Jace looked through the start-up section of the guide as he took a seat on the vehicle. Following the instructions was easy enough, and he winced as he had to use his broken, splinted fingers to manipulate one of the hidden switches to power it on. It thrummed with power and vibrated under him, causing his teeth to rattle. Okay. You¡¯ve got good balance. Just take it slow. He steadily applied a soft touch to the accelerator, and felt the vehicle move forward. Lifting his legs and setting them on the pegs, he went in a straight line as he got used to the balance portion. ¡°Now you turn by leaning,¡± Ollie said as he settled on Jace¡¯s shoulder. Well, hovered above the shoulder. Jace leaned slightly as instructed, and almost fell off the bike. He planted his leg down on the concrete instinctively, and to his surprise, the hypercycle swung around in a fast, hairpin turn. As he steadied his posture, he pulled his leg away and found himself traveling in the opposite direction. You¡¯ve got this. Now just a little more acceleration¡­ The vehicle began to speed up, and Jace had to lean down towards the body of the rumbling hypercycle as it pulsed under him, vibrating even harder as he sped off down the cracked road. ? Chapter 22 – A reunion and betrayal
Jace got used to the rumbling engine and bumpy road quickly enough, and was able to ride along the cracked, broken roads with little issue. He did not even have to navigate around obstacles as the path was cleared of any debris. You¡¯d think that they would have vehicles with all of this open road, he thought. Abandoned when people went through Cosmogenic Merging. But he had not seen anything of that nature. Maybe they had some type of public transport that eliminated the need. Riding a vehicle was something he had never experienced before. The rush of wind through his hair when he poked it above the windshield, the strong thrumming of the behemoth under him, and the exhilaration of sheer speed was a thrill that coursed through his whole being. Ollie was flying alongside and above him, constantly scanning the environment in a slow, bobbing circle. He flew down next to Jace¡¯s ear and practically had to shout over the roaring engine, ¡°You are being followed! Brontasps!¡± Jace looked over his shoulder and saw a horrific sight that shook him to his core. Snakes the size of small dogs were slithering over the landscape at a ridiculous speed. Traveling in a pack of five as the suns shone down from on high. How are they keeping up? Jace looked down at the speed gauge and grimaced, Oh. Only 50 mph. To someone who had never gone that fast before? It was an insane speed. But apparently these things were far faster, as they gained ground on him. ¡°They have a top speed of seventy miles per hour!¡± Ollie shouted once more. ¡°You can go faster and outrun them or fight them!¡± I¡¯d rather get more Stardust. ¡°What all can they do?¡± He shouted back as he accelerated a bit faster, wanting to maintain his current distance until he had all the information. ¡°They will try to surround you, take nips with venomous fangs that will paralyze, and then drag you back to their nest. They are ferocious and will not run off even if there is only one left. They¡¯re not as tough as the Vyrknadine are, but they are faster!¡± Right. Okay. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3). The faint purple film covered his body, and he stopped accelerating, letting the vehicle slow down at its own pace. The Brontasps closed the distance and were thirty feet away when Jace dug his clawed foot into the ground, spun the bike around, and came to a stop. With a single deft movement, he dismounted and drew his sword, wincing as he did so because of the broken fingers, and then tossed it to his prosthetic right arm. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending]. The blade ignited with purple and crimson fury as the Brontasps finally reached him. One charged right at him while the other four circled around him. The lead one struck out and Jace¡¯s Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) guided his body to deftly bend around the strike. He struck down, severed the head entirely, and then pivoted with the momentum of the swing. Wow. These things are way weaker than the Vyrkn-things. Jace felt his energy drain slightly as one of the creatures in his blind spot struck out and buried its fangs into his shield. Jace wheeled around and lopped its head off with ease as it writhed down to the ground. The other three all struck out at once. An idea popped into Jace¡¯s head, and he swung his sword in a rapid spin. The creatures couldn¡¯t see it, and with the single, circular cleave, he carved into the mouths and heads of each. Not decapitating blows ¨C the angle for that was wrong ¨C but the miasmic purple and crimson coated their heads as the black micro-singularities spread. All three creatures recoiled away and writhed on the ground before coming to a stop. ¡°That wasn¡¯t too difficult,¡± Jace stated as he looked around for any others. He winced as he heard the hypercycle clatter to the ground. Right, the kickstand. Ollie held up his paw, ¡°Dust them?¡± ¡°Go for it.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 500.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°100 each?¡± Jace asked as he sheathed the weapon and let the shield fade. ¡°That seems pretty damn good.¡± ¡°It puts you at 895 right now,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°You could always go searching for their nest.¡± ¡°Are they invasive like other things?¡± ¡°Querying¡­no. Does not look like it.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Would killing them mean that the prey animals get out of control with breeding and end up starving themselves?¡± ¡°The Neeshk? Yes. They would eventually overpopulate.¡± Jace walked back to the hypercycle and pulled it upright, ¡°Then I¡¯m not going to go take out their nest.¡± Ollie flew up and put himself in front of Jace¡¯s face. ¡°Why not? They are worth 100 Stardust each for adults. You could get a lot of levels out of it.¡± ¡°Xera¡¯s faction is about keeping the balance of The Cosmic System, right? I don¡¯t think that upsetting and unbalancing the ecosystem would be keeping the balance. If she wanted me to clear them out, she¡¯d give a Quest, wouldn¡¯t she?¡± Ollie opened his mouth as if to say something but stopped himself and frowned. ¡°I cannot fault that logic.¡± Jace refueled the hyperbike and stowed the empty jug of fuel. ¡°How far can this take us?¡± ¡°About 500 miles on a single tank.¡± ¡°Is that far enough to get to these Black Hole Conclave Signers?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Jace nodded and revved the engine, swung the vehicle around, and took off towards his destination.
Quinn stepped through the portal with Greg by her side. Valerie flew just above her, and Darrin was hovering just above Greg¡¯s head. The two Wayfinders pulled up a map of the world. ¡°Velenar Prime,¡± Valerie stated as the globe slowly spun. ¡°Remember, purple and yellow flowers,¡± Quinn said as she looked around the portal-arrival location. The field they were in was a lush, off-white color. ¡°Right. The more we get the better,¡± Greg stated as he knelt next to the grass. ¡°Correct,¡± his spider Wayfinder replied. ¡°The purple goes for 4 Stardust, the yellow is worth 7.¡± Quinn looked up at the bleak, grey skies and spied a few black clouds floating on the horizon. ¡°They¡¯re both night blooms, correct?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Valerie replied. ¡°See how this grass is off-white? It¡¯s been picked dry. We¡¯ll have to go farther to find the stuff.¡± Greg shook his head as he stood up, ¡°How far?¡± ¡°Twenty miles,¡± Quinn said as she manipulated the floating globe and zoomed in on a region just to the South of them. ¡°And remember, this world has daytime and nighttime predators.¡± Greg nodded and shouldered his heavy load. A large, two-person tent that could have an electrical charge pulsed through the fabric along the exterior to keep wild animals away. ¡°As long as we don¡¯t take longer than a week. I¡¯ll keep an eye on the rations.¡± Quinn smiled and nodded as she led the way South through the grasses, her telescoping Cybereyes Mk. 3 scanning the horizon for any trace of hostility.
Jace traveled through the day, only stopping to fight another group of the Brontasps ¨C adding another 700 Stardust to his reservoir ¨C before he found another one of the small neighborhoods that he could take shelter in. As he pulled the hypercycle to a stop, he put the kickstand down and stretched. His fingers were healing up nicely. Much faster than a break should heal up. Ollie attributed the rate of recovery to the serum. Jace had also been hungrier and ate double the number of rations he had on prior days. Again, Ollie theorized that his body was metabolizing more calories to increase the rate of healing. The science didn¡¯t make sense to Jace, but in summary Ollie had said, ¡°Just eat more and you should heal faster.¡± Jace kicked down the door of one of the buildings, went inside, and then shoved it back into place. After securing the other entrances with ancient, abandoned furniture, he scarfed down even more survival meals and drained a full canteen. I need to find a water source to refill my canteen, he thought. Ollie floated down to the floor and then into it, poking his head up as if he was submerged in water. ¡°Ready to level up?¡± ¡°We¡¯ve got three stored up, right? And an Evolution?¡± ¡°Yup. 1595 Stardust. 1500 for 3 levels.¡± ¡°Ok. Let¡¯s max out Dark Matter Dart at (Rank 4) for 2 levels, and then I want some type of Skill that will give me stealth, or an invisibility field, or cloaking. Let¡¯s use the Evolution on Dark Matter Shield.¡± Ollie reached into the ground ¨C into his little extradimensional pocket ¨C and threw the Stardust at Jace. It filled him with warmth once more. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 14.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting.], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 1), Starfire Stride (1/day) Stardust: 95 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, Wirecannon Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, Runner''s Replacement (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x76), canteen (x4), medical kit (x2), orange tarp (damaged), flint bar, flashlight, 40x arc reactor components. Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Dart (Rank 3) - As Rank 2, but launch 6 darts at a single target, or spread across multiple targets. Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4) - As Rank 3, but launch 9 darts at a single target, or spread across multiple targets. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 1) - Covers the user in Dark Matter, rendering them invisible. <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Legendary (Skill Evolution).] [Applying to Skill.] [Skill Name: Dark Matter Shield.] [Evolution Name: Reflecting.] [Effect: The shield will redirect the harm intended on the user back onto the attacker. Drains energy each time damage is reflected regardless of manifested Rank.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°That¡¯s useful,¡± Jace said. ¡°What exactly does invisible include for the Dark Matter Cloak?¡± ¡°You can¡¯t be seen.¡± ¡°Tsk. Annoying. I thought it would make me impossible to find.¡± Ollie smiled as he paddled at invisible waves of starlight upon the floor around him, ¡°Those are higher ranks. Here, I¡¯ll show you.¡± <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 2) ¨C As Rank 1, in addition renders the user untraceable. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3) ¨C As Rank 2, in addition renders the user undetectable. <<<<<>>>>> Jace nodded and began to make himself a comfortable spot to sleep in the corner of the front room. ¡°I suppose that makes sense. So, I need two more levels before we hit those Black Hole Conclave guys.¡± ¡°If you want to run it as a stealth Quest? Yup.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Thanks, Ollie. Goodnight.¡± ¡°Sleep tight!¡± Ollie vanished with his signature pop.
Quinn got out of her sleeping bag and sat up as her internal clock went off, ringing in her mind. Quietly, she set up the small camp stove and cranked the generator that spun up an electric hot plate. Greg let out a massive yawn and sat up, ¡°Morning. What¡¯s for breakfast?¡± Quinn chuckled and shook her head, ¡°Just some warmed-up sludge.¡± ¡°Mmm, sludge. My favorite.¡± Greg smiled as he got out of the sleeping bag and began rolling it up. Both of their Wayfinders appeared with a faint pop noise. ¡°Good morning!¡± Valerie tweeted out as she landed on Quinn¡¯s shoulder. ¡°One more day of travel and then a full night of flower picking!¡± Quinn nodded, ¡°Yeah. I think a few more nights and we¡¯ll be full up of what we can carry back.¡± Greg frowned as he finished rolling up the sleeping back. ¡°That Vyrknadine last night was a tough son-of-a-bitch. Took four shocks!¡± He reached over for the electricity-imbued cudgel known as a Stunstick. I¡¯d be screwed if you weren¡¯t around, she thought. She had been bending over, picking the various flowers when a growling came from right in front of her. She was thrown to the ground and a horrific creature bit down on her. But she felt no pain. Instead, Greg screamed out in pain, pulled his weapon, and went to work beating the creature to death. It was a violent, gory encounter¡­and Quinn was given a newfound fear of the man who was protecting her. He was dangerous, no doubt about that. Thank God he¡¯s on my payroll. Patching him up was messy work, as the bite that would¡¯ve clamped down on her shoulder instead appeared on his. If we get attacked again, by surprise, we¡¯re screwed. She only had a knife to defend herself with. Her ears perked up as she heard a sound. A whining, whirring, growling sound. ¡°Do you-¡± Greg was already on his feet, Stunstick in hand, and his body was covered in a rocky crust. ¡°Stay in here.¡± He went outside the tent. His spider went with him. Quinn turned off the stove, set it to the side, and crouched with her knife drawn, waiting. The sound of the hypercycle ¨C a common sound out in the badlands that extended outside of Sydney ¨C came closer before it came to an abrupt stop. She heard Greg shout something, another person shouted in return¡­and then laughing? Valerie looked up at her, ¡°It sounds like whoever it is isn¡¯t hostile.¡± Greg opened the tent flap with a huge grin on his face, ¡°You won¡¯t believe it! I found one of my old contacts! Come on outside.¡± Quinn got out of the tent and followed Greg¡¯s footsteps with her eyes. He walked over to a cloaked and hooded man with a sword hilt strapped to his waist, weird, prosthetic legs, and a singular prosthetic arm. She telescoped in on the face as he turned to her, and gasped. Holy shit. He¡¯s alive? Henriette should¡¯ve killed him. The woman sent by General Logistics was a heavy hitter. Maybe she hasn¡¯t found him yet. She began walking closer and noted the model of the hyperbike. Nope. He must¡¯ve killed her and taken that. ¡°You¡¯re level 14 already? That¡¯s crazy! I¡¯ve just been saving up my Stardust to buy some sweet stuff for my gal,¡± Greg was talking in a very relaxed manner. ¡°Yeah,¡± the familiar-to-Quinn voice replied. ¡°Missy, right? How¡¯s she doing?¡± Quinn rummaged through her memory database and pulled up the conversation with the courier from the small meeting before the Aspirant Trial. Definitely him. ¡°Jace?¡± The man turned to her, and she got a good look at him, ¡°Oh. Quinn, right?¡± He made a hand gesture ¨C palm facing inward in front of his chest, with the middle, pinky, and thumb curled inward leaving the index and ring finger sticking out. She walked closer and looked at his arms. ¡°Looks like you lost something.¡± The courier grimaced and nodded, ¡°Yup. My right arm, and both my legs.¡± ¡°Shit, dude,¡± Greg replied. ¡°Mind showing me?¡± Jace nodded and pulled his pant legging up, revealing a deep, crimson metallic color with black lines. Most noticeable were the almost hawk-like claws where the feet should be, and the weird, omnidirectional knee joint. He also rolled up his sleeve the rest of the way and she saw that the metal integrated with the flesh¡­perfectly. Too perfectly. He used the ferrofluid. That¡¯s going to keep a big target from General Logistics on his back. Quinn knew that if they got ahold of him, they could dissect him and filter out the CIF. He would remain a high-profile target once they got word that their agent failed in the recovery task. He pulled his sleeve back down. ¡°I completed a few Quests for the prosthetics.¡± He tapped the hypercycle, ¡°And I took this after taking down an ice-using Aspirant from General Logistics.¡± Quinn felt a sense of shame and guilt. The type that burrowed deep and wouldn¡¯t let go. She had set a corpo goon after a fellow street kid ¨C one of the worst betrayals possible. But I was bound by Broker contract, she thought. Despite that, the guilt still festered in her chest. A spectral river otter appeared from inside the hypercycle. ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Oliver. Ollie to my friends.¡± He frowned and crossed his cute paws, ¡°You are not my friends¡­yet.¡± Greg chuckled and gestured to the spider on his shoulder, ¡°This is Darrin.¡± ¡°And I¡¯m Valerie!¡± the flitting bird exclaimed. Oliver nodded as he floated out towards Valerie, ¡°You¡¯re the one who gave us the heads-up about the Nebula Aspirant. Thanks for that.¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Jace swung his leg off the vehicle and stood up. He was a bit taller than Quinn remembered from their brief meeting, and he was much, much more muscular. ¡°Wait. Quinn¡¯s Wayfinder told us we were being hunted?¡± He looked into Quinn¡¯s eyes, ¡°How did you know we were being hunted?¡± ¡°I¡­sort of¡­gave the corpo the information,¡± Quinn muttered as she looked away ¨C unable to look him in the face. She could feel the anger directed her way. Jace turned back to the hypercycle and pulled his hood back up, ¡°The snake-things are easy to kill, but they attack in groups during the day. The wolf-things ¨C Vyrk-whatevers ¨C those are harder to kill. Get on their back, and they can¡¯t hurt you easily.¡± The voice was monotone; completely devoid of emotion. He looked at Quinn, and she saw the disappointment and feeling of betrayal in his gaze. He turned the hypercycle on and sped away with his Wayfinder. Damnit, Quinn thought. I just alienated a huge asset. She glanced at Valerie and whispered, ¡°Was his symbol the one we researched?¡± ¡°Yup. Dark Matter. And we only got that information because X let me through the firewall. So, we are lucky in that regard!" Great. An asset with a super unique Cosmic Power. Stupid, Quinn. Broke the code and shot yourself in the foot. She sighed and looked at Greg, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s eat breakfast.¡± ? Chapter 23 – Introspection and interceding
The rumbling of the engine was the only accompaniment to Jace¡¯s otherwise silent travel as night began to fall. He was fuming at the fact she broke their code. One of the first rules of the street was that you never sold-out fellow street folk. Only if you were threatened with death or grievous injury was it acceptable. Seeing Greg brought him a bit of joy. The two had been business partners on several occasions, and had even gone out for drinks a handful of times when Jace could afford it ¨C before he became responsible and rescued his sister from the crappy orphanage. Greg was a good man with a solid work ethic. Not one of the street folk ¨C but good people, nonetheless. Ollie floated up next to his ear, ¡°You have a Brontasp nest coming up on the right side of the road!¡± He pointed and Jace followed the otter¡¯s paw to a junk heap with several cave-like holes. Good. I need to vent. Jace stopped the hypercycle when he got up alongside it, popped down the kickstand, and drew his sword as he dismounted. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting.]. The blade ignited with purple and crimson fury, and the shield that popped around his body was no longer just a smooth, simple barrier encompassing his form. Small, aura-like whisps of purple energy wicked upward before dissipating. Ollie flew in front of him and at his maximum height. ¡°Here they come!¡± And he was right, as the Brontasps ¨C that must have been settling down to sleep for the night ¨C came out of the different holes all around the giant trash pile. 12? That¡¯s a bit excessive. Jace grinned and held up his still-injured left hand. ¡°Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4).¡± He felt his arm shake as his energy depleted to fuel the Skill. Nine, deep, purplish-black darts streaked out from his palm and struck dead-center into the skulls of nine Brontasps. They fell silently, wriggling for a moment before stilling. And just like that, 12 becomes 3. Those three descended on him, and they performed the same pack-hunting tactic he¡¯d dealt with already ¨C one took the lead, and the others circled to strike from behind. Jace swung out at the one approaching from the front, cleaving its head clean off. The other two struck his shield, and he felt his arms sag from how tired he became. But, looking back at the two creatures ¨C they had recoiled, and their heads were severely damaged from the [Reflecting.] damage. Jace followed up on their recoiling forms with two deft chops, putting them down. He heaved with exertion ¨C the Skills having taken more energy out of him than actual fighting had ¨C and he sat on the ground as Ollie dusted them. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 1200.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace planted the blade in the ground and let the Skills fade. Ollie flew over to him, ¡°That¡¯s enough for two levels.¡± ¡°And¡­maxing out¡­Dark Matter¡­Cloak.¡± Jace shuffled back to the hypercycle and plopped himself onto the seat. Letting his frustration at Quinn¡¯s betrayal fizzle with his waning stamina. Note to self; Reflecting takes a lot of my energy if combined with the (Rank 3) Shield. Ollie nodded, ¡°Want to level up now?¡± ¡°No point¡­in holding off,¡± Jace replied as he chugged some water from a canteen. I still need to refill these. I¡¯ve got less than a full canteen left. He had four of them in total so he could carry a few days¡¯ worth, but he¡¯d tapped out all the water he had gathered from the research post hidden location. The otter threw Stardust at Jace, and he felt a warmth spread through him. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 16.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting.], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Starfire Stride (1/day) Stardust: 295 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, Wirecannon Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, Runner''s Replacement (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x74), canteen (x4), medical kit (x2), orange tarp (damaged), flint bar, flashlight, 40x arc reactor components. Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 2) ¨C As Rank 1, in addition renders the user untraceable. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3) ¨C As Rank 2, in addition renders the user undetectable. <<<<<>>>>> Nice. Now I can sneak around and there¡¯s no way for anyone to find me. I¡¯ll have to test how much energy it drains and how quickly¡­but this could be a game changer. ¡°Oh crap,¡± Ollie stated as he looked off to the South. ¡°What?¡± ¡°Emergency Quest.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Rescue Quinn Cipher.] [Time Limit: ASAP.] [Reward: Uncommon (Information) Boon.] [Sender: Star Council.] <<<<<>>>>> Oh, so now they want me to save the person that betrayed me? Jace shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m not going there to save Quinn.¡± ¡°Are you su-¡± ¡°Greg¡¯s with her. I¡¯m going to make sure he is okay. And, if I save her in the process, it¡¯s a bonus.¡± Jace revved the hypercycle and took off to the South, across the plains as the flowers began to bloom in the night.
¡°Get back you fuckers!¡± Greg shouted as he stood with his back to the tent. The exterior was electrified, and Quinn was hiding inside of it. Facing him down were two Vyrknadine predators. He had bashed the chitinous shell of one of them and had managed to break a few of its legs. The tent was meant to ward off curious predators, not bloodthirsty ones that already got a whiff of prey. If Greg retreated inside, they would tear at the fabric; better to fight out in the open where he could maneuver at least. The other one was untouched, and it was the larger of the two. Greg¡¯s Stunstick thrummed with electricity, and he held it out to keep the creatures at bay. ¡°Any ideas?!¡± he shouted. Quinn¡¯s voice came from inside the tent, ¡°I put in a Quest! Just hold on!¡± For how long? Greg thought as the uninjured creature took a nip at his Shockstick, and he bashed it on the snout ¨C jolting back away from him. He was still coated in a rocky shell ¨C but these creatures had taken chunks out of it with their initial surprise attack. He didn¡¯t even see them coming out of the grassland. Ambush predators. He kicked himself for not being more vigilant. One of the two ¨C the uninjured one ¨C leaped forward. He shoved his arm into its mouth ¨C trusting in the strength of his earthen shell to keep him safe ¨C as he drove the Stunstick into the side of its head. Stolen novel; please report. The creature locked up, but the injured one took advantage of the opening to clamp down on his shoulder. Greg felt the teeth start to get past the armored shell and into his flesh. Grunting against the pain, he drove the Stunstick into the creature¡¯s head ¨C driving through the thin ¡®temple¡¯ part of the skull. The one with his arm jammed down its throat let out a keeling whine before it flopped flat, dragging him prone to the ground with it. The one tearing at his arm pulled him away and flung him back and forth like a chew toy. The Stunstick stuck in the downed one, and Greg felt himself bashed over and over as he was tossed like a rag doll from side to side, impacting the dirt with painful thuds that sent shockwaves through his body. His vision started to get hazy, and he heard a loud roaring noise right above him. There was a rush of air that split apart and carved a path through the grassland. Blood sprayed out over his body and the tension against his shoulder vanished as the predator¡¯s jaw went limp. What happened? He thought as he sat up, his body protesting at the movement and telling him to stay on the ground. Ignoring the pain as he¡¯d done countless times before, he pushed up to his feet and looked around. There was the hypercycle Jace had been riding¡­but no one was on it. The vehicle came to a stop, and Greg could make out the spray of dirt from the side of it. ¡°Quinn?¡± he shouted out as he looked at the still sealed sparking tent. ¡°I¡¯m fine!¡± she shouted back through the fabric. Jace appeared in front of him riding the hyperbike; as if he was there the whole time and suddenly appeared. He turned the vehicle off, dismounted it, and a quiet descended upon the small battlefield. ¡°You alright?¡± he asked. Greg nodded and let out a laugh of exhaustion as he leaned back onto the ground and let the earthen armor fade away; the rocks clattering off and sloughing away. ¡°That was close .¡± The tent opened and Quinn poked her head out, ¡°Thank God you got the emergency Quest.¡± Jace just frowned. His spectral otter companion raised its paw, but Darrin flew up, ¡°Hold on! You don¡¯t get to take all the Stardust.¡± ¡°Why not?¡± Oliver asked. ¡°We saved your Aspirant from death.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± Jace said as he waved Oliver off. He walked over and held out a hand to Greg. Greg accepted the help up. ¡°You okay? Other than the shoulder.¡± Greg nodded, ¡°Just the shoulder.¡± He cracked a smile, ¡°How¡¯d you get here so fast?¡± Jace looked back at the hypercycle that clattered onto the ground, ¡°I went way faster than I was comfortable with going. That thing has some type of turbo mode. It guzzled all the remaining fuel.¡± ¡°Well¡­damn. Sorry about that.¡± Jace waved the concern away, ¡°I should be able to get my other Quest done in time. Speaking of¡­¡± he looked to Oliver, and there was a flash of light-blue starlight that came from the river otter. ¡°Quest completed.¡± Jace looked past Greg to Quinn, who was still staring from the tent entrance. ¡°Th-thank you,¡± she muttered. Jace looked back to Greg, ¡°We each dust one of them. Sound good?¡± Greg blinked in confusion, ¡°Sorry. Dust them?¡± Jace raised a quizzical eyebrow, ¡°You¡­you can turn things you kill into Stardust. Did you not know that?¡± The river otter flew over one of the Vyrknadine corpses and held his paw out over it. The creature¡¯s body vanished, turning into liquid starlight that flew into his cute, little paw. ¡°Dusted,¡± he stated as he flew over to Jace¡¯s shoulder and wrapped himself around the back of his neck like a fancy scarf. Greg looked to his spider Wayfinder, ¡°Can we do the same?¡± ¡°Yup.¡± The spider flew over to the other Vyrknadine. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 500.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Whoa,¡± Greg stated in awe. ¡°That¡¯s¡­so much!¡± He looked at Jace, who was stripping the hypercycle of his gear and valuable components, ¡°How much did you get?¡± ¡°500 Stardust,¡± Jace replied. ¡°The adult ones are worth that much. The smaller ones ¨C I¡¯m guessing their pups ¨C are 300 Stardust.¡± He looked up at Greg with a smirk, ¡°I also fought a three-headed one.¡± Quinn came out of the tent and walked over to Greg, ¡°Can I patch you up?¡± Greg nodded, ¡°Sure.¡± He stood still as the woman fussed over his shoulder, cleansing it with some type of disinfecting powder, and then wrapped the wound. The powder numbed his shoulder, and he couldn¡¯t feel any discomfort. ¡°Thanks.¡± Quinn went over to Jace and made some hand gestures that Greg was not familiar with. Jace frowned and made some gesture back to her. She returned a few more gestures. Jace¡¯s frown turned to a scowl. ¡°I came here for this Quest because I knew Greg was here. That¡¯s all. I¡¯m not interested in associating with someone who broke the code.¡± Greg was not keyed into this ¡®code¡¯ ¨C he didn¡¯t grow up on the streets. But he knew that across the world ¨C Earth ¨C this underclass had strong ties. They had a shared identity, and apparently, some strict rules. ¡°Jace, man. I don¡¯t know what you both told each other, but it¡¯s all goo-¡± The courier shook his head, ¡°No! You never give up another street kid!¡± He pointed at Quinn with the prosthetic arm, ¡°She broke the code.¡± Greg walked up next to Quinn, ¡°Chill out. You¡¯re an Aspirant ¨C a strong one. I mean, you dealt with that thing instantly. And you turned invisible! Who cares about some code from another life you lived?¡± He wrapped his good arm around Quinn¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Plus, now you have a Broker who owes you.¡± Quinn nodded, ¡°I¡¯ll make up for it. I promise.¡± She was shaking slightly, and Greg felt his protective nature come out as he rubbed her shoulder reassuringly. ¡°25%,¡± Jace replied bluntly. ¡°Off of anything I buy from you. And I get 25% more Stardust from stuff I sell you.¡± Quinn answered quietly, ¡°Okay.¡± Jace made a gesture with his fingers, touching the pinky of his right hand to the palm of his left, shouldered his large satchel, and began walking away. ¡°Stay safe, Greg. Those things ¨C get on their spine to stay out of their bite range.¡± Greg nodded as his old friend walked off into the tall grasses. Quinn walked back to the tent and sealed it up behind once Greg got inside also. She began laying out her supplies, slightly trembling as she did so. Greg looked at Darrin, ¡°I want to level up. How much Stardust do I have?¡± Darrin flew down and his spindly legs caressed Greg¡¯s arm. ¡°1915. What Skills do you want to Rank up?¡± ¡°Three levels? Hmm. Let¡¯s do one Rank into each existing Skill.¡± ¡°Okay, incoming!¡± A stream of starlight emitted from Darrin¡¯s legs and Greg felt his body warm up. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Greg Bhastal (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Planet [Protector 4.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Protector''s Vow (Rank 2), Planetary Defenses (Rank 2), Planetary Retribution (Rank 2) Stardust: 415 Equipment: Protector''s starting gear, Pheracorp deflection matrix, Stunstick Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Protector¡¯s Vow (Rank 2): As Rank 1, damage redirect effect halves the damage transferred to the user Planetary Defenses (Rank 2): As Rank 1, and the speed/nimbleness reduction is reduced drastically. Planetary Retribution (Rank 2): As Rank 1, but the efficacy is three quarters. <<<<<>>>>> That is awesome, Greg thought as he chuckled. Looking over at Quinn, he saw her bundling into her sleeping bag. ¡°You okay?¡± ¡°I¡­¡± Quinn turned to him, and he could see the sad look in her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m¡­I broke the code.¡± Her voice dropped to a whisper and she made the pinky-to-palm gesture Jace had made, ¡°This means ¡®I forgive you.¡¯ I know he won¡¯t hold it against me.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not like you didn¡¯t pay some price, from the little I know about you. A permanent 25% discount? That¡¯s steep.¡± Greg leaned back onto his sleeping bag. But if this code is so important¡­maybe it¡¯s an appropriate punishment. He smiled to himself, not concerned with this code he barely understood. He had his own code to live by. And one of the first things he would do when Jace made it to The Eternal City would be to buy the man who just saved his life a nice, ice-cold beer. ? Chapter 24 – Breaking locks and condemning the Conclave
Jace trudged along the path that Ollie had laid out in front of him. Saving Greg was something he was happy to do ¨C despite it costing him the hypercycle¡¯s remaining fuel. He got Stardust and some of the vehicle¡¯s components. The betrayal stung ¨C but he had forgiven the trespass on the street folk code. That is what his last gesture to her meant; he forgave her. But not for nothing: a permanent 25 percent discount and trade-price improvement for going through Quinn to buy or sell goods. She paid for breaking the code, he thought. Ollie flew above him ¨C at his maximum tether height to keep an eye out as he turned in a circle. ¡°We¡¯re about four days out on foot from your destination.¡± ¡°We¡¯ve got what, eight days left?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Yup.¡± Jace nodded and used the time traveling to practice. He wanted to figure out the exact amount of time it would take to drain his energy from the new Ranks of Dark Matter Cloak. Several hours of experimenting ¨C with a few stops to catch his breath ¨C resulted in him getting a rough estimate for each Rank. Rank 1 is about an hour if I sustain just that. Rank 2 is half that. Rank 3 is about ten minutes. He found another one of the abandoned prey-holes to tuck into for the evening, repeated his tarp trick, and slept with sword in hand. The night was uneventful, and he took off again in the morning. ¡°Hey Ollie, question.¡± ¡°Go for it,¡± he replied as he continued bobbing above Jace¡¯s head. ¡°Is there a way to increase my energy? A way I can use Skills more often without getting tired?¡± ¡°Cardio,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°The more endurance and stamina you have, the more you can use.¡± ¡°How do my prosthetics play into all of that?¡± Ollie floated around his head, ¡°It should mean that your endurance lasts longer than most others because you are not using up energy from moving your legs or arm ¨C well, you are using a lot less. Just the connective tissue.¡± He smiled, ¡°You could always use that Information Boon to find out exactly what the effects are.¡± ¡°I think someone in The Eternal City will have an answer to that. I¡¯d rather save the Boon for something else.¡± The two continued on in silence, but Jace was wracking his brain for what he could ask with the Boon. I could ask about some type of secret. Maybe dig up information on a person? The Black Hole Conclave is still unknown. ¡°I want to use the Boon,¡± Jace stated. ¡°The guy at the top of the Black Hole Conclave.¡± Ollie nodded and waved his paws in the air as a screen filled Jace¡¯s vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Uncommon (Information).] [Query: Information about Troxanir.] [Answer: Known only as Troxanir, they are from Oblivion¡¯s Edge. They have the Cosmic Power known as Black Hole, and the Ascended Cosmic Power known as Singularity. Their Class is Warrior at level 100, and their Advanced Class is Archmage at level 80. Their species is unknown and unquantifiable. Current residence in Oblivion¡¯s Edge. Leader of the Black Hole Conclave. [HIGHER RARITY REQUIRED]. <<<<<>>>>> So, some information is hidden behind a higher requirement. Interesting. Jace looked up at Ollie as the message faded from his vision, ¡°Well, that was a lot of the same information we already knew. But knowing their Class and Advanced Class might be helpful if we end up going up against them.¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°Yup. Looks like it. Warrior focuses on fighting up-close and personal ¨C pretty versatile. Archmage means that he could throw around literal singularities or even age items through entropy until they turn to dust.¡± His tone was somber and there was a trace of fear underneath it. Jace felt the same fear, knowing that this entity would be able to obliterate him. ¡°We have to be careful in Khrox, since they could attack me.¡± ¡°Yup.¡± Ollie smiled, ¡°But you can become completely undetectable now. Plus, I am sure Xera can manipulate the city to keep you two from interacting. Troxanir will not even know we are the ones who mess up this operation. I think we just have to keep Wayfinders from identifying who you are.¡± ¡°Easy enough. I Cloak, get close, and kill them.¡± Jace replied. ¡°You¡¯re a killer through and through, aren¡¯t you?¡± Ollie said with a little wry smile. ¡°No,¡± Jace replied. ¡°I¡¯m not just some killer. These guys? Sure. They want the literal death of everything.¡± He grimaced, ¡°I don¡¯t know much about science stuff, but I did like visiting the museum when I could, and the space exhibits were my favorite.¡± He looked up at Ollie, ¡°I know that everything turns to spaghetti-something when it hits the center of a black hole. This faction wants that to happen to everyone? It¡¯s a death cult.¡± ¡°They don¡¯t turn to literal spaghetti,¡± Ollie said with a slight chuckle. ¡°It¡¯s called spaghettification. They get stretched out and all twisted up as they are compressed.¡± Jace shrugged, ¡°My point is the same. They are people that want the universe to end. It doesn¡¯t feel wrong. I don¡¯t feel like I¡¯m doing something bad. Hell, Xera is telling me I have to stop them with this Quest.¡± He felt a sense of justification. Righteous justification. ¡°I¡¯m doing the right thing.¡± ¡°And that ¡®oblivion awaits all¡¯ mindset is why the other factions hate the Black Hole Conclave. Well, except the Nebula Alliance ¨C they will sell or buy from anyone.¡± I bet I¡¯ll end up interacting with those two factions frequently, Jace thought as he shouldered his satchel and kept on walking. I¡¯d also wager given the way Earth was heading, that the Nebula Alliance is going to take over. It¡¯ll just become more of a corpo-dominated place. They continued onward, making camp three more times before arriving at another city as night fell. This city was not a resort like the prior one. The buildings were all uniform in height and distance from one another. Ten story-tall boxes lined up in a grid pattern. Side streets were big enough that a small car could drive down one. The environment reminded Jace of an office park. And there was movement. Jace saw a group of people down the street. He quickly ran over to an alleyway and pressed himself against the wall. Ollie followed him and poked his head out around the corner. ¡°Identifying,¡± he stated. Jace drew his sword and manifested the Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3), as well as his Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending]. He poked his head around the corner and could only make out the vague shapes of upright people walking around, moving crates and boxes. I really need something like binoculars, he thought. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. Ollie turned around and looked at Jace with a resolute expression, ¡°Black Hole Conclave Signers. All of them. They have a variety of Cosmic Powers at their disposal.¡± Ollie grinned, ¡°They look like they¡¯re getting ready to set up camp for the night.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Then we wait until they go to sleep, strike silently, and take them out.¡± He went down the alley and cautiously made his way forward towards where the Black Hole Conclave members were setting up their camp in the middle of the road. They aren¡¯t setting up in a smart way, he thought as he found a vantage point to spy on them from. They¡¯re just in the middle of an intersection. It¡¯s good for preventing ambushes if you have enough people, but they¡¯d be safer in a building. Jace looked at the building he was next to and ran his hand along it. The substance was solid metal just like the other buildings in that resort city. He jerked his hand away as he felt a beat inside the metal structure. As if someone had hit it with metal and the vibration reverberated through the entire structure. ¡°Ollie, any idea what that was?¡± Jace whispered. Ollie flew into the side of the building before coming back out a moment later. He had a look of sheer panic on his face. ¡°Cloak. Now!¡± Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Jace thought. The purple light surrounding him from the shield turned into a near-black, purple hue as he was rendered invisible, untraceable, and undetectable. From his earlier testing, he knew he could keep this up for about ten minutes before he would be exhausted. ¡°Don¡¯t talk. Just let me,¡± Ollie said, his voice trembling. ¡°It is¡­You remember those nanite-covered Velenians?¡± Jace nodded. Yeah, the zombie-like things. They were easy to deal with. Ollie gulped audibly, ¡°There are hundreds in that building. They are¡­weaker? But there are way more.¡± An idea went through Jace¡¯s mind, and he cracked a smile. Moving along the edge of the building towards the Black Hole Conclave members, he made it to the front of the building. Now that he was closer to the Aspirants, he could make out their attire and weaponry. All of them were dressed in some type of black, leathery armor with metal rivets and studs. They had cloaks on with a white, circular emblem on the back. Their weaponry was varied ¨C but all of them were melee weapons. No ranged combatants? Jace mimicked shooting a pistol with his hand and then pointed at them. Ollie seemingly picked up on Jace¡¯s confusion, ¡°Projectiles are easier to block or dodge. And firearms are unreliable given the multitudinous worlds on The Cosmic Corridor. Most Classes focus on melee weaponry or Cosmic Power manifestation ¨C like a Mage.¡± The Conclave members were setting up a perimeter ¨C taking some type of foldable mesh out of their bags and pouches, planting metal spikes into the ground, and creating a barricade of some type. Jace watched in awe and jealousy as the spikes sent a beam of energy up into the air a good twenty feet before lines of deep, brown energy connected them. Electric fence. Smart way to make camp in the open. Jace went over to the set of doors that led into the office building. They were sealed shut tightly, and placing his ear against them, he could hear the faint sound of shuffling inside. Time to let the horde out. He slashed at the lock with his sword, the metallic clang echoing in his ears ¨C but completely undetected due to his Dark Matter Cloak. He made sure to catch the lock so it wouldn¡¯t hit the ground. Slowly, very slowly as to not alert the Conclave members, he opened the door and came face-to-face with one of the Velenian zombie people. Jace threw himself back as the horde streamed out, shrieking and screaming. The Conclave members began shouting in panic as tens, then hundreds of these zombie-like humanoids slammed into the barrier surrounding their camp. The barrier sparked and zapped with the deep, brown energy ¨C and the Velenians were turned to ash. But they kept swarming. Jace kept far away from the chaos, crossing the street. ¡°Go inside this one,¡± Jace whispered. ¡°See if there¡¯s more.¡± Ollie poked his head through the wall before pulling it back and nodding, ¡°Hundreds here, too.¡± Jace looked back and saw that the Conclave member¡¯s barrier seemed to be holding as the line of zombies trickled to a slim flow. I wonder how much that barrier can take. Jace cut through this locked door caught the lock, and let the second swarm loose. They charged forward toward the barrier, and the Conclave members stood on the other side, weapons brimming with various energies. The barrier sparked, zapped, and thrummed¡­before fading. The swarm descended, and Jace observed as the makeshift camp turned into a chaotic mess. Raising his right hand, he grappled the side of the building and got up above the fray, clinging on with his feet as he saw the battle unfold. The Conclave members were throwing around blasts of gravity ¨C waves of purple that shot outward in a shockwave and forced the Velenians to the ground. The pressure increased even more, and they turned into a fine paste from the force of gravity weighing down on them. Another cluster was carved through with a line of grey-white energy that desiccated them before disintegrating their forms. More splashes of colors and elemental energies ¨C fire, water, blasts of air, shards of metal ¨C all went flying into the horde of creatures and devastated their numbers. The energy threw off cascading arcs of residual power, and Jace could feel the heat, cool, wind, and even felt his energy drain slightly as metallic shrapnel reached him. They¡¯re winning, Jace thought as the Conclave members held firm. He raised his left hand ¨C now uninjured and fully healed, holding the sword ¨C and focused on the eight targets. I¡¯m assuming there is a horde in each of these buildings. Then, a thought struck Jace. These doors were locked from the outside. These people were locked in there to die. Jace felt a sense of unease at using these zombie-like figures that were condemned to such a terrible fate ¨C succumbing in the dark. But he shook the feeling off. They don¡¯t have higher brain functions. The magitech nanites took that away from them. This is setting them free. Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4). He had one spare dart that he sent towards the lock on another door across the street. The other eight sped to the Conclave members ¨C one apiece, focused on their torsos. He felt extremely weak, and his Cloak faded away as the bolts of invisible-to-others, purplish projectiles flew out. The darts blew holes through the armor of the Conclave members. The sudden injury that all of them suffered was enough to let the horde turn the tide. The lock he shot across the street clattered to the ground, and another group of zombie-like creatures swarmed out. The situation grew dire, and Jace saw the Aspirants struggling to hold off the rush of monstrous forms. They had seemingly expended all their energy. One of them, with the Cosmic Power symbol of a Black Hole on his hand, screamed out. ¡°Oblivion awaits!¡± ¡°Get up higher!¡± Ollie shouted. Jace aimed his prosthetic, fired up, and ascended. Glancing back down, he saw reality begin to distort and warp. A small, black dot he could barely make out appeared in front of the Aspirant. And then reality collapsed with a roaring, distorted slurp sound. The space around the newly created singularity twisted and warped as everything within a fifty-foot sphere vanished. The horde was gone, the camp, all the Aspirants. There was nothing but a fifty-foot-deep hole in the center of the crossroads. ¡°Ollie¡­what was that?¡± ¡°It was a Skill. I did not have enough time to figure out that one¡¯s Class, but I would bet that it was something akin to a Battle Mage. Think of that as a more generic Swordmage.¡± ¡°Are they all dead?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Yup. Every one of them. Too bad this wasn¡¯t the main force with the drill.¡± He crossed his little arms, ¡°They would rather go to their oblivion than die to these things.¡± Jace felt disappointment. I was hoping to get a ton of Stardust out of this. ¡°Do you think every one of these buildings is filled with more of these people?¡± ¡°Yes. But to verify? Only one way to find out.¡± Ollie made a swinging gesture, ¡°Swing to another building and I can check.¡± Jace nodded, aimed the grapple at the next building across the alley, and swung over. He clamped his feet onto the new structure, and Ollie flew inside. He poked his head back out and nodded, ¡°Yup, more in here.¡± ¡°This would be an easy way to get a lot of Stardust,¡± Jace replied. ¡°I can just recover my energy, go invisible, and clear out every building.¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°Yup. That would be a smart play. But we are on a time crunch. At this rate, we will barely make it to the Black Hole Conclave¡¯s site. We cannot spend long here just farming Stardust.¡± We can come back later. They aren¡¯t going anywhere. He looked out at the few still milling about the street, aimlessly wandering. I can come back through this way and rack up a ton of Stardust. He used the grapnel arm and his feet to keep swinging from building to building, making it to the edge of the city before he clambered down and continued the journey towards his Quest. Chapter 25 – Encroaching threats and discussing pasts
The next day passed without incident, and Jace took cover in an abandoned building that evening. ¡°We are almost there,¡± Ollie said as he floated up and swam in the air above Jace. ¡°Map please?¡± Jace asked as he set to fortify the entrances and windows with whatever furniture was lying about. Ollie nodded and waved his paws. The projection of the world appeared, hovering in front of them both. The dot representing them was about a half-day travel from the destination of the Quest. ¡°Did you still want to hit them at night?¡± Jace nodded as he lay down, ¡°Yeah. A few hours of sleep. Hopefully, they have water. I¡¯m almost out.¡± ¡°They should,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°If they plan on installing this engine into the planet to then defend it. Many species across The Cosmic Corridor require water or something that you could drink that would pass for it.¡± Jace nodded and shut his eyes, ¡°If you end up seeing Quinn or Greg¡¯s Wayfinder, tell them to steer clear of that one city with the zombie hordes. I want that Stardust to myself.¡± ¡°Yup.¡± There was a pop, and Jace tried to relax and let sleep take him.
Ollie appeared in the Starlit Sea. Almost immediately, Xera¡¯s screen opened a private communication channel with him. ¡°Oh, hi!¡± Ollie said with a wave. He saw Josie behind Xera, and¡­she looked concerned. Xera looked like a mess. Disheveled hair, unkempt clothing. Normally, she was a bit run-down looking; but this was uncharacteristically messy. ¡°Been putting out fires all day,¡± she muttered. ¡°We¡¯ve got a problem. My other four Aspirants from this last batch who became Signers¡­they were killed.¡± Ollie frowned and crossed his arms, ¡°What? How?¡± ¡°It looks like the Nebula Alliance. They¡¯re completely invested in Earth. And my other Signers went back almost right away ¨C despite my trying to warn them that their Tier was too low.¡± She grimaced and he could tell that she was holding back tears as she was talking to him. ¡°You and Jace are my only option now. You have to get to Tier 3 as soon as possible. Get back to Earth. Stop the Nebula Alliance from taking over.¡± ¡°How do we stop a whole faction?¡± Ollie asked with genuine curiosity. ¡°That will be, what, tens of thousands of Aspirants?¡± Xera swept her hair out of her face, ¡°We have an ally in that capacity. The Star Council has already been making moves with one of the most powerful government entities of that world. I¡¯ll be allying you with them, once you¡¯re at Tier 2 and start getting the diminishing returns from Velenar Prime.¡± Ollie nodded. He knew well enough that once Jace reached Tier 2, all Stardust income from a Tier 1 world would only reward 50% of the possible amount. Once he achieved Tier 3, then he would get nothing from the Tier 1 world. ¡°What about the Planetary Independence Pact? I thought they had a stake in Earth as well.¡± ¡°There isn¡¯t a singular, strong Aspirant that can achieve Tier 3 or higher and pass their Ascension Trial fast enough to step up and take the reins of the world. We have a month, maybe. The Planetary Independence Pact is going to support the Star Council in their endeavors. And so is the Dark Between Stars.¡± That means we will not be dealing with the Black Hole Conclave on Earth ¨C too many moving parts. And since they will not show interest, the Pulsar Coalition will also be staying out of it. ¡°Earth joining the Star Council. Sounds like a plan.¡± Ollie saluted, ¡°We will get to Tier 3 as fast as we can, and then head to Earth.¡± That way he will suffer far less harm than he would if he was Tier 2. Her face relaxed slightly, but there was still a look of concern. ¡°How is he doing?¡± ¡°Jace is doing just fine,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°He¡¯s committed to the cause. We took out ¨C well, they took themselves out ¨C a group of Conclave members.¡± ¡°And he didn¡¯t raise any qualms about that?¡± ¡°Nope. He was fine with it.¡± ¡°Good. Just make sure you keep his sanity in check. I don¡¯t want him going into some psychotic break from what he¡¯s going through.¡± Ollie chuckled, ¡°If what he has already been through has not given him that break, then I do not think anything we come across will shake him. Heck, he even dealt with a betrayal of some type of code from a Broker.¡± ¡°Oh! That¡¯s Valerie¡¯s Aspirant,¡± Josie said as she filled the screen in front of Xera ¨C much to The Architect¡¯s annoyance. ¡°I¡¯ve seen Quinn a few times in the System, perusing files.¡± ¡°Well, she betrayed Jace by selling out information about him. It is fine, though. He forgave her in exchange for a huge discount on prices.¡± Xera smirked, ¡°Good. Then we already have some ties with the Star Council, so Jace won¡¯t be reaching out to their faction out-of-the-blue when he goes to offer his assistance.¡± She looked at Josie, ¡°I¡¯m off to bed. Deal with the evening affairs, please.¡± ¡°Goodnight, Xera!¡± Ollie said as he waved.
Jace woke up with a start. There was a noise outside of the building he had barricaded. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), he thought as he drew his sword. There was muttering outside, and he could barely make out the conversation. ¡°Patrolling this far out sucks,¡± a high-pitched, female voice stated. This was followed by a pang noise of something being kicked, and a curse. Jace moved to the window and peeled away a tiny corner of the tarp he put up the night before. He could see a woman dressed in some type of armored jumpsuit; metal pads covering her torso, thighs, and forearms. She had a helmet on, as well ¨C but her ponytail was pulled through a hole at the top. Most prominent was the glowing symbol for Black Hole on her hand, and the symbol Jace had seen on the cloaks of the Conclave members, emblazed on the back of her uniform. Ollie appeared with his pop right behind Jace, and the woman turned to the building. Jace stayed completely still, knowing that she could not see him. ¡°Uh oh,¡± Ollie said. He clapped his paws together and starlight expanded to the edges of the room. ¡°She is a Signer, so no Wayfinder for her ¨C but better safe than sorry.¡±If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Jace shook his head and raised his hand ¨C pushing it under the slight gap in the tarp and out the window. Dark Matter Dart (Rank 2). Three bolts of purple energy shot from his palm ¨C one into the woman¡¯s head, one into the center of her chest, and the other into her thigh. At the same time, he thumbed the ¡®fire¡¯ on his grapple. All the projectiles impacted first, and the woman gasped as the air escaped from the hole in her chest that suddenly appeared. A split-second later, the grapple hit her, and Jace retracted the line, pulling the woman¡¯s body to a stop at the edge of the building, just below the window. ¡°Brutal,¡± Ollie said. ¡°Necessary,¡± Jace replied. ¡°She was doing a morning patrol. If she found me, well, who knows what type of communication they have with each other.¡± He pulled the tarp from the window, stepped through, and inspected the corpse. She was human ¨C fully human. So, she¡¯s gotta be Tier 1 like me, Jace thought. He looted her remains but only found two items of value. Another canteen that he quickly drained, chugging down the vital fluid, and a circular object inscribed with arcane runes. Different ones from those he had found already on this world. ¡°Oh, I am familiar with those runes,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°They are from a world one of my other Aspirants died on. Tier 3. This is like a magical communicator. You could use this to listen in to their conversations.¡± ¡°That sounds usef-¡± ¡°And they can track it. That is the downside,¡± Ollie frowned and flew up, so his head was just over the edge of the building. ¡°Looks clear. Only the one scout.¡± I can carry the communicator with me for the time being, Jace thought. If I¡¯m getting close to their base, then it¡¯ll seem like their person is still alive and patrolling. I can ditch it when I get closer. Maybe find someone else to plant it on, so it keeps moving. He pocketed it and stood up. ¡°Dust her,¡± he instructed as he let the Dark Matter Cloak drop. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 10.] <<<<<>>>>> Her corpse and all the remaining gear turned to Stardust. He felt the weight leave his pocket. Oh, right. Gear gets dusted along with them. ¡°Can¡­someone detect that this communicator went missing?¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°Yes. Damn, I did not think of that before dusting her. They will know that the device was disabled.¡± He looked at the place where the corpse once was, ¡°What would cause a human to join the cult of nihilism that embraces oblivion?¡± ¡°Revenge. I bet she lost everything on Earth. When you¡¯re kicked down enough¡­well, sometimes you want to just burn it all.¡± Jace went back inside and began packing up. ¡°Did you ever feel like that?¡± ¡°Once, before Chroma,¡± Jace replied. ¡°I used to run with a street crew that would try and take down some minor corpo operations. You know, bust into a store or two and boost everything valuable we could get our hands on. I stopped that once I rescued Chroma. That¡¯s when I started my courier work.¡± ¡°You were successful at it, yes?¡± Jace finished packing up and left the building, ¡°I was a freelancer, so, yeah. I was good enough I could have gone onto a corps¡¯ payroll. But I liked the freedom to choose my own gigs.¡± He smiled fondly, recalling his early evenings back in the small lean-to he had constructed as his and Chroma¡¯s makeshift home in an alley. ¡°I could always get back to her every night. I couldn¡¯t do that if I worked for a corp. I¡¯d be working all the time. Just like my mom did.¡± Ollie floated around Jace¡¯s shoulders and settled on them like a scarf. Jace couldn¡¯t feel him, but the closeness was¡­soothing, in a way. They had grown comfortable enough with each other at this point that there was not any lingering hostility. ¡°Your mom, did she want to give you up?¡± Jace nodded and recalled the memory as if he were reading it from a historical text ¨C devoid of emotion. ¡°She was part of General Logistics. She had us in a small apartment owned by the corp. When I was¡­six? She put me into the orphanage run by the corp. Well, they called it ¡®long term daycare,¡¯ but I was effectively abandoned. She never visited. I got out of there when I was twelve and learned from street folk how to survive.¡± ¡°And Chroma?¡± Jace felt sadness at her name. ¡°She¡­mom had Chroma when I was fourteen. I got her out of the orphanage when she was five.¡± Ollie winced, ¡°It was that bad, huh?¡± ¡°Yes. That place was an indoctrination school to make us into workers for the corporation. I got her out of there as soon as I could. Mom didn¡¯t even care. She was working higher up in the chain and focused on her career.¡± Jace felt anger run through him. Burning him up from the inside, nestling into a small, writhing knot of heat in his guts. ¡°She fucking abandoned her kids for her career .¡± ¡°I am sorry.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be,¡± Jace snapped back. ¡°She¡¯s a bitch that left us.¡± ¡°¡­Are there any good memories you have about her?¡± ¡°Why are you pushing this?¡± Jace asked. ¡°I am your lifelong companion. I think I should know as much about you as possible.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°That makes sense.¡± He smiled slightly as the anger faded into a less tangible feeling in his chest. Still there but pushed aside as the one happy memory of his mother resurfaced. ¡°She would let me sit on the bed with her and would scratch my head and run her fingers through my hair. She called me something, but I don''t remember what...¡± He frowned as he realized¡­he didn¡¯t even remember her face. Not that he wanted to, but the fact he didn¡¯t know her face anymore was just a further testament to how insignificant she was in his life. ¡°You could find her. Back on Earth, I mean. Give her a piece of your mind.¡± ¡°No,¡± Jace replied. ¡°I want nothing to do with her.¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°Understood. Thank you for being open with me.¡± Jace frowned, ¡°They can¡¯t just worship oblivion and destruction," he said wanting to redirect the conversation. "What else is the Conclave about?" ¡°Their sales pitch is that paradise exists beyond the singularity at the center of the universe.¡± Jace had heard of paradise before; some person came to the orphanage when he was younger and tried to convert them to something called Neo-Christianity, claiming that if he believed, he would go to some place called ¡®heaven¡¯ which was a paradise. But few believed in religion anymore. And they were very¡­peace-oriented. A far cry from these Conclave people. That does make me wonder though¡­is this ¡®heaven¡¯ place really beyond a singularity? Chapter 26 – Where there’s a drill, there’s a way
Jace trudged onward towards the plume of dust that became visible just on the horizon. The location where the Black Hole Conclave was boring a hole towards the center of the world, to install some type of weird, magic engine that could propel the planet to the center of the universe. ¡°What¡¯s our best approach?¡± Jace asked. Ollie manipulated a three-dimensional map of the world that zoomed in on their location. ¡°There¡¯s a ravine that goes near the site. You could use that to approach, then use your Cloak to get in closer.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve got enough Stardust for a level, right?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± ¡°And I¡¯ve maxed out all of my current Skills.¡± ¡°Also, yup.¡± I¡¯ve got offense up close, defense regardless of distance, a ranged option, and the cloak. I could use something that I can plant down ¨C like a trap of some type. ¡°Is there anything that could be used as a trap?¡± ¡°Give me a moment.¡± Ollie¡¯s eyes went black as he stopped moving. A few seconds passed and he shook his head, the light returning to his eyes. ¡°Yup! There¡¯s a sub-type included in Dark Matter ¨C Dark Energy. It applies negative pressure ¨C the opposite of gravity, effectively.¡± ¡°Oh, that¡¯s cool. Anti-gravity. So, could I make, like, an anti-gravity mine? Something I can plant on the ground as a trap?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± ¡°Let¡¯s do that.¡± Ollie pulled Stardust from his little extradimensional pouch and threw it down on Jace. The warmth spread through his torso. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 17.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting.], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1), Starfire Stride (1/day) Stardust: 305 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, Wirecannon Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, Runner''s Replacement (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x62), canteen (x4), medical kit (x2), orange tarp (damaged), flint bar, flashlight, 40x arc reactor components, 2x hyperbike components Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1) - Places an invisible trap that lasts for 10 minutes. Upon activation, removes gravity from all objects in a small radius for 30 seconds. <<<<<>>>>> Jace looked up at Ollie, ¡°How big is a small radius?¡± ¡°Five feet from the planted location.¡± ¡°And how long does it remove gravity for?¡± ¡°Thirty seconds.¡± Jace smiled, ¡°I think we have a counter for the Black Hole powers.¡± Ollie looked at him, confused for a moment before his eyes widened. ¡°Oh. Wow. You¡¯re right. This could be used to remove gravity¡¯s influence on you ¨C so it would negate a singularity-type effect.¡± Jace nodded and headed towards the ravine that Ollie showed on the map, ¡°Exactly. And I can use my legs or grapnel to stay tethered to a solid surface, so I¡¯m not affected.¡± ¡°Unintentional genius,¡± Ollie quipped. ¡°Okay. Time for you to drop the starlight form and do that outline thingy again.¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie¡¯s form shifted and became the silvery outline of a river otter. He stuck close to Jace¡¯s shoulder. ¡°The ravine is going to take you close to their site.¡± Time to be sneaky, Jace thought as he bent his knees slightly to better control the volume of his footfalls. He dipped into the ravine ¨C whitish colored grasses dipping down into the space alongside him ¨C and slinked through the winding path. A small stream trickled under him, flowing in the same direction as he traveled. I¡¯ll have to come back here and refill my canteens. The sound of voices reached Jace¡¯s ears, and he used his fingers to trace the pattern for Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 1). Rendered invisible, he crept forward until he could see two armored figures ¨C very similar in dress to the other Conclave members he had seen in that city a few days ago. ¡°I swear, it¡¯s getting hotter and hotter down there,¡± the first one said. ¡°That¡¯s what happens when you get closer to the core. Soon enough they¡¯ll bring in some Conclave members of a species that is mostly made of rock.¡± The second individual turned to the first one, ¡°This your first time sending a world to oblivion?¡± The first one nodded, ¡°Yeah. First time.¡± Ollie moved his mouth up to his ear, ¡°They¡¯re both Tier 1.¡± This is going to be too easy. Jace got out of the ravine and easily made his way past the two guards. ¡°Why not kill them?¡± Ollie whispered once more. ¡°It could cause alarm,¡± Jace replied. ¡°The Quest is to stop their activities. Disabling the drill should do it. And they aren¡¯t worth much Stardust compared to the predators here.¡± He continued forward through the grasslands. Thankfully, the enormous plume of dirt and debris that was being kicked up a few thousand feet away was blowing in the opposite direction. This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. As he approached, he had to pause as patrols went by ¨C but none noticed him. They¡¯re relying primarily on vision, Jace thought. Creeping forward he got to the edge of the drill site. A large groove had been carved into the ground ¨C like a moat ¨C and the dirt piled up behind it to make a simple barricade. The rod-like spikes were placed in the ground, and the brackish-brown energy cascaded across the gap. Jace slipped into the moat and went around the outside edge until he got to an opening. Two guards were standing there. They both were dressed in heavy armor ¨C like that Nebula lady that Jace fought. They held huge glaives with sparking, crackling tips. The symbols on their hands indicated that they had Planet-based Cosmic Power. I have to get past them. They were hulking brutes of people ¨C and their helmets were extended outward. One of them looked right at Jace, and he froze. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), he thought. ¡°What is it?¡± the one who didn¡¯t look at him asked. ¡°I smelled something.¡± The one that had looked at Jace walked over to him, and he scrambled out of the moat and made for the gap now left by the guard who went to where Jace was standing. ¡°There¡¯s a scent trail here!¡± The person pulled off their helmet and Jace got a good look at them. They were a dog-person with an elongated snout that sniffed at the air. ¡°Someone was here. This way!¡± He ran off down the moat that Jace had been traveling along, and the other one turned to the inside of the protected space. ¡°We need more on the perimeter! We might have an intruder!¡± Jace got inside the barrier, past the entrance, and got next to a bunch of stacked boxes marked as supplies. A group of Conclave members went past him, shouting orders and barking commands as they reinforced the perimeter. And just like that ¨C I¡¯m in, and the guards inside are reduced. He smiled at the lucky occurrence. The dust continued to be carried away into the distance by the wind, and Jace could finally take in the whole of the operation. He was on the top-most level of a terraced dig site. Rings descended down to the bottom of the pit, where an enormous, building-sized metal tube was vibrating and whirring, with plumes of dirt, rock chunks, and smoke shooting out of various apertures. Each terraced level had tents, equipment, supplies¡­at a guess, Jace figured with two people to a tent, they had around a hundred people here. ¡°There¡¯s a lot of them,¡± Ollie whispered. ¡°We don¡¯t have to fight them all. Just stop the drill.¡± Jace looked around the top-most level. ¡°Ollie, keep a timer for me. Seven minutes.¡± ¡°You got it.¡± Jace knew that he had ten minutes of the Rank 3 Cloak before he would run out of energy and have to deactivate the Skill. He didn¡¯t want to run up against the clock. Limited time. He took a deep breath and focused on the various palettes of supplies placed around the bottom of the drill. They were marked and labeled; thanks to Universal Translation, Jace could tell exactly what was inside. Replacement parts. Destroying those would slow things down. ¡°There has to be an energy source,¡± Ollie whispered. ¡°Move around the rings so I can get a better look at the drill.¡± Jace followed the instruction and spent three minutes carefully navigating the now-abuzz drill site. Dodging the people going to reinforce the perimeter was easy enough, but he had to be careful about not dislodging any dirt or rocks that could tumble down and give away movement. He might be invisible, untraceable, and undetectable ¨C but the environment around him was not. ¡°Okay. I have queried the System.¡± Ollie pointed next to Jace¡¯s head, using his little paw to direct the Aspirant¡¯s vision. ¡°See that panel? That is the control console. Destroying that should prevent the drill from being useable until its replaced.¡± Jace nodded. The metal platform Ollie pointed to was on a terrace one ring above the drill itself that was at the bottom of the pit. A long, thick, metal cord connected it to the side of the device. Getting over to it was easy, and he was in front of the controls within a minute. ¡°Time?¡± he asked. ¡°Two more minutes on your timer.¡± Jace looked up at a sudden noise ¨C a clattering and shouting. People complaining about a ¡®false alarm¡¯. They¡¯re coming back. ¡°Best way to destroy it?¡± ¡°Chop it up.¡± Jace nodded and pulled his sword. He hacked at the console over and over, carving through the metal as it sparked and crackled. To an outside observer, large gashes spontaneously appeared upon the rent apart metal. Thankfully, none were down here monitoring the drill. Jace was able to chop the device up into bits before moving away. But the drill didn¡¯t stop. It kept going. ¡°Damn,¡± Ollie whispered. ¡°It must have a default setting to be ¡®on¡¯.¡± Damnit! What else can I do? Jace looked up at the exhaust that was still kicking up dirt and debris. Come on Jace, think. What can you use? Looking around, he saw the repair components, and an idea popped into his head. Sheathing the sword, he pulled out his tarp, wrapped it around the crates, and used his belt to tie the whole bundle together at the top where the corners of the tarp met. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). A sphere of black energy ¨C about the size of a baseball ¨C appeared on top of the bundled crates. And¡­detonate. The mine went off, and Jace gripped the belt holding the tarp and boxes all together as gravity lost its pull on him. Aiming his prosthetic arm to the drill, he fired off the grapple and pulled himself with his cargo to the top of the drill¡¯s exhaust. He gripped down with his feet claws and pulled the now-weightless cargo up and over the lip. Jace shoved the boxes down as far as he could. ¡°Ollie, can I turn off the anti-gravity effect?¡± ¡°Yup! You can cancel Skills early if you want.¡± Okay¡­then stop floating. He felt gravity reassert itself onto him as his legs and grapnel were suddenly supporting his weight. And the crates fell into the machine. They were ground into bits and pieces as the metal components fell into the inner mechanisms of the drill. The object began vibrating violently under Jace¡¯s feet. It emitted a tremendous creaking and rumbling noise as it kept shaking harder. ¡°Time to go,¡± Ollie whispered. Jace used the grapple to descend before retracting the cable. He felt his eyelids fluttering from the energy use. I have to get out quickly. Foregoing any type of subtlety, he used his grapple prosthetic to pull himself up the terraces rapidly, getting to the perimeter barrier within thirty seconds. The focus of the Conclave members was on the drill, and they were shouting commands and orders to try and shut it off. But they couldn¡¯t. The control console was shredded. Jace glanced down as he sprinted around the outside edge, trying to get to the entrance he had come in from as the electric fence was too high to jump over. ¡°Shield! Now! Rank 2!¡± Ollie shouted. ¡°Put it in between you and it!¡± Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2), Jace thought as he manifested the tower-shield. The drill vibrated, whirred, and ground to a stop. There was shouting down below, and Jace felt even more tired. ¡°What''s coming?¡± Jace asked weakly. ¡°Just watc-¡± Crack! The drill¡¯s top snapped off. Bang! The world in front of Jace exploded. ? Chapter 27 – Pray you survive this predation
Jace¡¯s leg-claws kept him rooted in place, and the Dark Matter Shield kept his body safe as the concussive shockwave was stopped entirely by the barricade. A roiling ball of flame ascended into the sky as the drill¡¯s remains smoked on the bottom of the mining area. ¡°That was close,¡± Ollie whispered. Jace had to deactivate the Dark Matter Cloak or risk falling unconscious. He felt his arms shaking from exhaustion as a dull ache set in from the pressure that had pushed against the shield. Thankfully, no one was looking at him ¨C and the electric fence was disabled. Now¡¯s my chance. Jace got over the dirt berm and into the moat before clambering out the other side and moving as fast as he could away from the area. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Stop the Black Hole Conclave¡¯s activities on Velenar Prime.] [Time Limit: 12 days.] [Reward: Stardust.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> Ollie surged with starlight that flared a bright, luminescent blue and white. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 2000.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Four levels?¡± Jace said as he kept moving away as fast as he could. ¡°Yup! Great job. That¡¯ll throw a wrench in their plans for a good, long time. Enough for the Pulsar Coalition to get some Aspirants and Ascendants here to stop them for good.¡± Jace felt a giddy exhilaration despite his tiredness. He, a single guy, had just stopped an operation guarded by at least fifty Aspirants that worked for a hostile faction. It had taken less than ten minutes to do it. Play to your strengths. Sneaking around and running. ¡°Level up.¡± ¡°Alright. What do you want?¡± ¡°How¡­how many more Ranks does Dark Energy Mine have?¡± ¡°Two. It caps out at Rank 3.¡± ¡°That¡¯s two levels,¡± Jace replied as he slightly slowed his pace ¨C his hip flexors shaking from the exertion of moving the prosthetic legs ¨C and his overall exhaustion. ¡°You know what? Just the two levels.¡± ¡°Got it.¡± <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 1) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 19.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting.], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3), Starfire Stride (1/day) Stardust: 1305 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, Wirecannon Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, Runner''s Replacement (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x62), canteen (x4), medical kit (x2), flint bar, flashlight, 40x arc reactor components, 2x hyperbike components Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Dark Energy Mine (Rank 2): Increases the duration the trap lasts to 1 hour. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3): As Rank 2, Increase radius. <<<<<>>>>> Only thirty seconds of anti-gravity still, Jace thought as the messages filtered past his vision. ¡°How big is the new radius?¡± ¡°Rank 3 the radius is thirty feet from the point you plant it.¡± Damn, that¡¯s a huge area. Jace nodded as he slowed to a walk. He put his arms above his head so he could take in more air. The skies had darkened ¨C not just from the billowing smoke behind him ¨C and the night sky expanded ever onward. He felt his racing heart slow slightly. Well, back to that office-style city. A few days travel to get there, and I can get a lot of Stardust easily.
Agh. My head. Brom looked up and saw the enormous fireball in the sky, the smoke trailing up after it¡­and he felt pain. Looking down, he saw metal shrapnel embedded in his leg. Annoying, he thought as he focused on a Skill. The metal vanished as it turned to nothingness ¨C accelerated entropy to the point it turned to dust. ¡°Report!¡± he shouted. A group of Aspirants who had become Signers for his faction came over, ¡°The drill exploded,¡± one of the younger ones said with a tremble in his voice. ¡°No shit,¡± Brom replied as he stood and dusted himself off. And this smoke is going to prevent me from tracking whatever caused it. He was one of the Dervkork ¨C these new Aspirants had referred to him as a ¡®dog person¡¯ when they thought he wasn¡¯t listening. And they had been punished appropriately for their lack of respect. ¡°How bad is the damage?¡± ¡°Sir,¡± One of the engineers replied. ¡°It¡¯s¡­gone. Down to the bit far below. We¡¯ll need a new one.¡±This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Brom grimaced and nodded, ¡°Was it an accident?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t think so,¡± the engineer replied. ¡°The control console was slashed and shredded ¨C that¡¯s why I couldn¡¯t turn it off.¡± ¡°How many did we lose?¡± ¡°None, thank oblivion. We just have to get a new drill delivered and operations can resume.¡± Brom nodded and sniffed the air. ¡°Search the perimeter. If any other Dervkork¡¯s get a whiff of something off-¡± One of his two most trusted Aspirants walked over to him. ¡°I smelled something and sounded the alarm earlier. It was up near the moat entrance.¡± Brom went with the Aspirant to the location and sniffed the area he pointed to. ¡°That¡¯s the path we went down,¡± the Aspirant pointed down the moat to the left of the entrance. But Brom picked up something different. Singed hair. To the right side of the moat. Following the scent, he picked up a trail going off into the night. ¡°I think I¡¯ve found our saboteur,¡± he said with a grin. ¡°Shall we chase?¡± his lesser asked. ¡°I¡¯ll deal with it. We don¡¯t know when our reinforcements are going to arrive, or when the Pulsar Coalition will get here. Reinforce our positions, put the fence back up.¡± He turned back to the open plains. ¡°This prey is mine to hunt.¡±
Jace traveled through the night, turning his Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3) on and off in short bursts to disrupt anyone possibly tracking him down. When morning came, he was bone tired. Finding another burrow was easy now that he knew what type of terrain to look for among the grasslands. All out of water, he thought as he drained the last of his four canteens. ¡°Ollie, are there any water sources on that map?¡± ¡°Not on the map,¡± the Wayfinder replied. ¡°Your best bet would be that city with the office buildings. They should have water tanks on the roof.¡± I should¡¯ve gone that path down the creek, but they could have tracked by smell and found me. I made the right call. Just suck it up for now; I can survive another two days without water. Maybe more, since I don¡¯t have legs and an arm. Jace shoved dirt to the entrance of the small, abandoned burrow ¨C his tarp having been dragged down with his cargo. And his belt. He sighed as he pushed himself back as far as he could. This burrow was slightly deeper than prior ones, and he shut his eyes.
Brom followed the scent trail for hours until it faded away. Damnit. Where did it go? He used his large, broad sword and cut away at the grasses. No footprints, he thought as he dug a small divot with his blade. From that point, he slowly spiraled out in a circle, sniffing the whole time. Hours passed before he picked up the scent again. Clever. Some way to mask yourself. He kept following the trail ¨C having to repeat the process several times. Thankfully, his Ascended Power prevented any need for sleep, food, or drink. He was a merciless hunter. And his prey was close. He could see buildings on the edge of the horizon. And the scent trail led right to the uniform skyline.
Jace made his way through one of the empty buildings. The zombie-things had gone¡­well, he didn¡¯t know where they went. There were plenty of locked buildings, still, and he planned on going into each of them with Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3) active, clearing them out, and harvesting a ton of Stardust. But first, water. He reached the rooftop access and kicked down the door. To his delight, there were several, large, metal barrels strapped in a neat line across the flat top. Going up to the first one, he tapped the side and heard the sloshing of liquid inside. ¡°All right!¡± Pulling out the survival knife, he stabbed in and made a slit that poured out the clear liquid. Jace caught some in his palm, sniffed it, and then took a sip. Stale, but clean. Rummaging in his pack he filled up the four canteens and stowed them back in their place. After drinking his fill, he leaned back and scarfed down some of the goop-bag survival meals. Ollie floated up to his maximum tether height, ¡°It is a nice day today,¡± he commented. ¡°Great for dealing with hordes of these creatures.¡± Jace nodded as he cracked open his second pouch of the meal, ¡°Yeah.¡± Slurping down the delicious slurry, he smiled, swallowed, and looked up at the otter. ¡°It¡¯ll be easy pickings.¡± He finished the meal, adjusted the straps on the bag to keep it secure to his back, and drew the sword. ¡°Ready?¡± Ollie nodded and saluted, his cute little paw going up to the top of his head. ¡°Yup! Here we go killing again!¡±
Brom arrived at the edge of the city and heard gurgling sounds. The slap of flesh being carved apart and slapping against a surface. The scent of decay and rot reached his nostrils¡­and the scent of blood and sweat. The same scent he¡¯d been tracking, mixed with the smokey smell from the drill¡¯s explosion. In the city somewhere, eh? He backed away a few thousand feet and pointed his hand at the space above the city. ¡°Black Hole Summoning!¡±
Jace swung his blade back and forth, carving away at the horde that was pushing past him. He had figured the best way to kill these things would be to use the entrance as a natural funnel, keep Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3) active so they wouldn¡¯t interact with him, and then just slice at neck-level. That plan had gone out the window rather quickly, as the tide of creatures was enormous. He couldn¡¯t keep up ¨C and they spilled out into the street before grouping up and running one direction or another. Jace felt an odd tug. His clothes began moving upward. What the hell? He felt his body begin to move upward, and clamped down with his clawed feet to stay put. The Velenian zombie things began to ascend skyward ¨C to a singular point far up in the sky above. ¡°It is one of the Conclave!¡± Ollie shouted. ¡°That is a powerful Skill. We can¡¯t outrun it. Use the mine!¡± Jace tapped his torso, Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). He immediately detonated the Skill and felt weightless. ¡°We were followed?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie had a trace of fear in his voice. ¡°That is not just a black hole from someone with that type of Cosmic Power. That is a Supermassive one. An Ascended Power.¡± Jace watched with fear and awe as the buildings, the street, everything around him began to ascend skyward and compress into the singular point. He was standing on a spit of cement and ground as the world was sucked upward into the gravity well before compressing. This is insane! He began scanning each direction. The whole city was being sucked up into the singularity. And the ground under it. Everything except for Jace and the ground in that five-foot radius was sucked skyward. Ollie shifted to his silvery-outline form and clung to Jace¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Over there!¡± he shouted over the din of ripping metal and clashing concrete. Jace looked along Ollie¡¯s arm and saw a bulky person wearing some type of armor that looked to be heavier than what Jace was wearing, but lighter than that ice-using General Logistics corpo had on. ¡°That is¡­a Tier 3 Ascendant,¡± Ollie whispered. ¡°What powers?¡± Jace asked. Ollie nodded and gulped, ¡°Black Hole Cosmic Power, and Supermassive Ascended Power. Level 25 Berserker, Level 39 Warlord.¡± There was a massive boom that resounded across the area as the sphere compressed even tighter, crushing all of the metal and resulting in a singular mass of matter. ¡°You might want to run.¡± Chapter 28 – Reaching new heights
¡°No shit,¡± Jace replied as he saw the singularity vanish above him. A single, compressed sphere of matter ¨C maybe the size of a soccer ball ¨C fell into the now-sixty-foot-deep pit. ¡°But¡­if all of those bodies were compressed into that, there¡¯s a ton of Stardust.¡± Jace pushed himself off the spit of land and hit the bottom of the pit right as his Dark Energy Mine faded and gravity reasserted itself. ¡°Dust it,¡± he ordered. Ollie nodded and did so. The spur of ground that Jace was standing on crashed to the ground behind him. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 3000.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Why so little?¡± Jace asked. ¡°There had to be thousands of these things killed.¡± ¡°You did not get the kills, or participate in the kills,¡± Ollie replied. He looked over to the crater edge, and Jace followed his gaze as the armored figure slid down into the bowl. ¡°You should run. An Ascendant, 2 Tiers higher? You will do far less damage.¡± ¡°How much Stardust do I have?¡± ¡°4305 Stardust currently.¡± ¡°That¡¯s enough for eight levels, and I¡¯m level 19. I¡¯d hit Tier 2, right?¡± ¡°Close. It costs 500 Stardust per level until you hit Level 25. Then, it costs 1,000 Stardust from 26 to 50. So, you will get seven levels if you spend all you can right now.¡± ¡°But that level up means a Tier increase, which should offset the damage reduction from being a lower Tier.¡± The figure kept approaching but was a few thousand feet away still. ¡°Okay,¡± Ollie said softly. ¡°I trust you. You got this!¡± He threw the Stardust into Jace¡¯s face, and he felt a huge rush of energy fill him up. ¡°What do you want for a Skill? It will not happen until you make that choice.¡± ¡°I want some type of Skill that I can dump lots of Ranks into. Maybe something like body improvement?¡± <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 26.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting.], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3), Cosmic Infusion (Rank 7), Starfire Stride (1/day), Stardust: 305 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, Wirecannon Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, Runner''s Replacement (damaged), messenger bag, sliverscreen, survival knife, survival meals (x46), canteen (x4), medical kit (x2), flint bar, flashlight, 40x arc reactor components, 2x hyperbike components Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Cosmic Infusion (Rank 1): Increases the user''s physical traits by a minor amount. Cosmic Infusion (Rank 2): As Rank 1, increases the user''s sensory traits by a minor amount. Cosmic Infusion (Rank 3): As Rank 2, increases the user''s cognitive traits by a minor amount. Cosmic Infusion (Rank 4): As Rank 3, increases the user''s physical traits by a moderate amount. Cosmic Infusion (Rank 5): As Rank 4, increases the user''s sensory traits by a moderate amount. Cosmic Infusion (Rank 6): As Rank 5, increases the user''s cognitive traits by a moderate amount. Cosmic Infusion (Rank 7): As Rank 6, increases the user''s physical traits by a large amount. <<<<<>>>>> [Congratulations! You have achieved Tier 2. If you wish to stop your advancement in your Class and choose an Ascended Power, speak to your Wayfinder.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace grinned as he turned to face this new threat. He was still under the effects of his Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), and he sprinted to the right of the person. Oliver was whispering in his ear as he ran to the side of the figure ¨C completely undetected. ¡°Physical traits include your strength, agility, flexibility, breathing, heart rate ¨C anything that has to do with your body. Sensory traits are your senses, like sight, hearing, and smell. Cognitive traits encompass concentration, memory, reaction speed, and mental fortitude. The Skill is always active. Literal Cosmic Power coursing through you. Every Aspirant has access to it.¡± Jace could feel the effects prominently. His breathing had never been clearer, he could see the edges of the person¡¯s armor with crystal clarity. His sight was able to discern minute fragments of debris that had scattered from the singularity collapsing. And, most significant of them all, the figure appeared to move slower. Jace knew it was just his perception sped-up; but the thought that he could maybe eventually reach some Rank that slowed the world around him even more was filling him with excitement. The prospect of this fight being something difficult or dangerous didn¡¯t even cross Jace¡¯s mind. He felt supremely confident. I¡¯m a master swordsman. I¡¯ve got Skills for everything I need. Let¡¯s do this! Jace already had Dark Matter Blade manifested at (Rank 5) with [Rending] active. He used his fingers to trace out the Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2) pattern, and the tower shield appeared on his prosthetic arm. Running in, he slashed into the figure¡¯s back. A pulse of black energy surged out and blew Jace back. Digging his feet claws into the ground, he came to a stop as the figure turned around, ¡°Invisible? Interesting. I¡¯ve not encountered a Cosmic Power that enables that.¡± How can he see me? Jace thought. I¡¯m invisible, untraceable, and undetectable. Unless he can¡­sense gravity around him? That makes sense. No point in keeping the Cloak active and draining my energy, then. Jace let the Cloak drop and took up a fighting stance. ¡°Ah, there you are.¡± The figure pulled out an enormous sword ¨C ridiculously large ¨C that dwarfed Jace¡¯s whole body with its sheer bulk. His right hand had the Black Hole Cosmic Power symbol, but there was another symbol that was smaller and hidden inside of that one ¨C a pure, black dot that absorbed all light. He turned his body sideways to present a small target and pointed the weapon at Jace, ready to impale. ¡°You¡¯re the one who destroyed our drill. Working for the Pulsar Coalition?¡±The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. Jace clenched his jaw and dashed forward, swinging his blade in an arcing curve. His opponent lifted his blade and blocked Jace¡¯s invisible weapon. The gravity detection is all around him. That¡¯s inconvenient. Jace backed away. ¡°Not one for talking during a fight?¡± The figure moved forward with a speed that belied their large mass, and Jace interposed his shield between him and the overhand chop. The sword impacted the invisible barrier, and Jace angled it slightly upon impact so that the blow would slide to the side. It gave him just enough of an opening to stab forward with his own weapon, cutting into the Conclave member¡¯s side and scoring a wound. The purple miasma-tinged crimson began to slowly fester and spread as micro-singularities formed along the wound. There was a pulse of black energy that filled the air around the figure. Jace was forced to the ground from the crushing pressure. ¡°Gah, why you-¡± The Ascendant swung. Jace screamed out in pain as the blade cut down into his good arm ¨C severing the limb with a single chopping blow. He couldn¡¯t move ¨C the crushing gravity drove him to the ground, and he couldn¡¯t breathe as his lungs were being squished. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). Detonate. A small sphere of black appeared under him and then immediately exploded. The man with the sword floundered for a moment ¨C and Jace deactivated his shield, using the chance to point his prosthetic arm out to his right, fire the grapnel, and drag himself away. He was able to catch his breath as the enormous pressure lifted. Another arm. Fuck! He gritted his teeth and shoved the stump into the dirt, screaming out in pain as he did so. Need to stop the bleeding. Anything to make it clot faster. I¡¯ve got med kits in my bag. Glancing up, he saw the figure with the enormous sword slam back into the ground as they used some gravity-based Skill to return to the surface. I¡¯ve got twenty-five seconds of mobility. Jace shot out the grapnel again, activated the retracting cord, and went zipping away. He thumbed the release as he got closer to the tether point ¨C and let his momentum carry him to the edge of the crater. The man with the sword was chasing ¨C but couldn¡¯t move nearly as fast. Jace repeated his action on the lip of the crater, launching himself up into the sky. Now¡­disable. He felt gravity reassert itself and he began to fall. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). Detonate. He was weightless once more and went flying in a gentle arc towards the ground. Once he touched down, he let the Skill deactivate. He ripped open his pack and fumbled for the supplies to clean and staunch his still-bleeding stump. The shove into the dirt had helped stop the flow, but he felt dizzy from the blood loss. Ollie never left his side, ¡°I will keep an eye on your back.¡± Jace grunted an affirmation as he got the disinfecting liquid out. Gritting his teeth, he poured the whole container over his stump, stifling a scream of pain. Survive, he thought. Survive for her. You can¡¯t die here. He used gauze to clean the wound of the dirt, applied a second round of the disinfectant, and wrapped the stump in the bandage that squeezed down on the severed nub. It had some type of painkiller inside the fabric, and he felt the sharp pain become a dull throb. The pulsating throb brought clarity, and he focused on the here-and-now once more. ¡°Sword?¡± Jace asked as he stood up. ¡°Back with your arm,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°He is still coming.¡± Jace nodded. ¡°I can¡¯t take this guy. I should just leave the arm and run for the portal.¡± ¡°He will track you. You will not make it in your current state.¡± Ollie¡¯s voice was monotone and robotic. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Black Hole Conclave Ascendant.] [Time Limit: ASAP.] [Reward: Legendary (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°I got you a Quest,¡± Ollie said as his usual voice returned. There was a trace of fear, of panic ¨C but also a sense of resolve. ¡°You will survive. For Chroma. For yourself¡­for me.¡± He looked at Jace and the Aspirant saw the whiskers of his otter companion twitch slightly. ¡°He has stronger gravity manifestations than Dark Matter can emulate. But he specialized in gravity manipulation, not entropy. Just stay out of range.¡± ¡°Can¡­Can he do another one of those singularities?¡± ¡°Doubtful,¡± Ollie replied as he crossed his arms, ¡°You struck him. [Rending] never ends unless you will it to end. That is making him weaker. That is sapping his energy. You can just keep away from him and let that do its work¡­but he might be able to stave it off.¡± Jace nodded. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3). He vanished once more, and moved away from his last position, knowing that the scent trail would lead to that spot. He saw the sword-wielding figure stomping across the ground towards Jace¡¯s last location. The man was covered in the black miasma, and the crimson had spread from his midsection to the tops of his legs. Good thing I got him with the Dark Matter Blade, Jace thought. He ducked into the grasses out of instinct. Hold on a second¡­ This was the exact same type of grassland that Jace first arrived in. He gripped the ground with his claws and felt the familiar, slight ¡®crunch¡¯ of the soil. That gives me an idea. He pulled out the survival knife. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). The black dot manifested on the dagger. He flung the blade in an overhand throw. The dagger stopped and dropped two feet from the Black Hole Conclave Ascendant. He looked over in the direction of Jace. Detonate. The space around his target erupted as the nanite-infused soil floated from the ground and created the equivalent of a smokescreen. Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4). Jace launched a flurry of invisible projectiles at his opponent. There was a pulse of black energy as the anti-gravity was disabled and the particles fell to the ground. A split-second later, the nine darts slammed into him ¨C punching into the armor across his torso and neck. He toppled to the ground. Jace waited patiently, watching as the purple and crimson miasma continued to spread across the prone form. He was moving, but barely. There was a burst of black energy once more, and the miasma creeping across him receded ¨C but was still there and began to slowly spread once more. Some type of healing? The Ascendant stood up, but looked completely exhausted. His shoulders were shaking, and Jace could hear the ragged breathing. Jace felt tired, also. His eyelids were drooping and he felt himself falling asleep. Just one more shot. He raised his palm. Dark Matter Dart (Rank 1). The bolt of purple slammed into his opponent¡¯s skull, and punched all the way through the head, blowing out the other side. The body collapsed into a heap on the ground. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay the Black Hole Conclave Ascendant.] [Time Limit: ASAP.] [Reward: Legendary (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Wow¡­you did it!¡± Ollie shouted. ¡°I knew you could do it!¡± Jace nodded, tried to say something witty in response, but collapsed as the world went dark. Chapter 29 – Shops and Stardust
Xera was at her wits end. She was scrolling through the logs and reports as fast as she could. Josie was behind her, doing the same. He dealt with the drill, but what happened after? The Cosmic System blacked out all Jace¡¯s activities while he was under the effects of Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3). Not even she could track him while it was active. And right now, she was racking her brain, going through every file possible on those Black Hole Conclave members to try and figure out which Ascendant exactly he had dealt with. Ollie was on one of the screens, with a look of worry on his face as his whiskers twitched constantly. One indicator of his unease was his stillness ¨C he was always moving around, even when not an otter and in his original blob-esque shape. But he was floating in the Starlit Sea, near-still, save for his whiskers. ¡°And you¡¯re sure he had a big sword.¡± ¡°Yup,¡± Ollie muttered. ¡°I think he was a Dervkork. He had a big build and a snout under the helmet. Or a Goyduk.¡± Cross-reference that species with the descriptor and- ¡°I got him!¡± Josie shouted from behind her. Xera turned in her chair and slid over to the other half of her command center. Josie read out the displayed information, ¡°Brom Farkonen. Tier 3 Ascendant. Cosmic Power, Black Hole. Ascended Power, Supermassive. Member of the Black Hole Conclave.¡± Xera read through his action reports that were automatically logged by Ollie. He was injured, took Jace¡¯s arm and then chased¡­but he kept getting injured? ¡°Ollie, give me access to Jace¡¯s current readout.¡± The otter nodded and waved his paws. Xera¡¯s screen filled with Jace¡¯s information. [Rending] Evolution? That¡¯s one I haven¡¯t heard of before. She opened a System search engine and looked for that same Skill Evolution name. It¡¯s not in the System from prior use, so it must be newly created. The logs showed that this Brom was heavily weakened after his injury, constantly suffering and being weakened from the relatively minor blow. This¡­this¡­okay, calm down. Xera leaned back and took a deep breath. ¡°Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) combined with [Rending] means that even if he barely nicks a target, they¡¯ll expire eventually. Why didn¡¯t he keep running?¡± Ollie¡¯s face screwed up and he buried his face in his paws. ¡°It is my fault. I told him to stay and fight. He would not have been able to outrun this Brom Ascendant.¡± Josie turned to that screen, phased into it, and went into the Starlit Sea, embracing Ollie with her gelatinous mass. The otter hugged her in response. ¡°He is fine. Just unconscious,¡± the gelatinous Wayfinder said. In a place known for predators. With an injury that was bleeding. Xera groaned and rubbed her temples. At least he achieved Tier 2. That¡¯s a huge milestone. So even if he is attacked in his sleep by a Brontasp or Vyrknadine, he won¡¯t be as heavily injured by their bites. She looked up at the display console at the two Wayfinders. ¡°It¡¯ll be okay, Ollie. But I can¡¯t keep giving Quests out of the blue like that. I¡¯m running short on resources here. I¡¯m going to have to make a deal with some of the merchants to get more Boons ready-to-go.¡± Ollie nodded and looked at the screen, ¡°I want him to get to The Eternal City. He needs to get some better equipment.¡± Xera nodded, ¡°More defensive gear, I agree. He¡¯s my only shot. No other worlds seem close to Cosmogenic Merging, so he¡¯s my only Signer for the foreseeable future.¡± She turned away from the panel and went to her living room, sinking down onto the couch and covering her eyes with her palms, using her other set of arms to manipulate a small touchpad that fabricated a cup of warm tea. She had taken a liking to the Earth beverage. I¡¯ve got less than a month to get him up to Tier 3 so that he will actually be able to do what I need him to do on Earth. She let her face go and used her upper set of arms to pick up a tablet and began scrolling through The Cosmic Corridor¡¯s world log. A place that affords lots of Stardust that can be easily accessed¡­maybe¡­ She grinned. A world with lots of Complexes. Looks like I¡¯ll be recommending a magic-oriented world. I wonder if Double-A is still conducting his event¡­
Jace let out a hacking cough as he roused. Immediately, pain set in, and he groaned as he writhed in the dirt. Damnit! He thought as the pulsing from his missing arm raced down his body. Fishing around inside his pouch, he grabbed one of the bottles of painkillers, popped the maximum dose into his mouth, and then fumbled for a canteen to wash it down. Laying back on the ground, he waited for the pills to kick in. What the hell did you do that for? Jace thought. You got close to a guy who can control gravity. Stupid, stupid decision. You should¡¯ve triggered a mine on yourself before going in to prevent his effects. The ability to be detected by changes in localized gravity was shocking. Dark Matter Cloak at (Rank 3) was supposed to make him undetectable. He didn¡¯t detect me or my weapon, then. He detected the sudden¡­absence of something and reacted to that. There was a pop as Ollie appeared above him. ¡°Are you okay?¡± Ollie asked as he floated above Jace, bobbing in place. ¡°Just waiting for the pills to kick in,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°And thinking about what I could¡¯ve done differently.¡± Ollie breathed a sigh of relief and spun in a circle. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t see anyone. And the Ascendant¡¯s corpse is still over there.¡± Jace forced himself to sit up and felt the dull pain of his severed limb acutely; a pulsing, throbbing, dull ache. Pushing to his feet, he staggered over to the corpse. ¡°Dust him.¡± Ollie nodded and did so, flying over the body as it vanished into glimmering starlight. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 50.] <<<<<>>>>> No gear remained as the body and all its parts turned to glimmering sparkles. Jace turned to the crater and trudged back, feeling a little better as the pills really took effect and the pain became negligible. Making it back to his arm took ten minutes, and he grimaced when he saw the limb holding the black sword. ¡°I don¡¯t suppose there¡¯s a way to reattach it?¡± Jace asked. Ollie frowned, ¡°In The Eternal City? Sure. It needs to be fresh though.¡± Jace opened the messenger bag, shoved his arm into it, and then set the temperature to its coldest setting possible. He grabbed the sword, sheathed it, and then stood upright. ¡°So, to Khrox, then. How far to the portal?¡± Ollie pulled up a map of the world, ¡°If you push yourself? 5 days.¡± Jace nodded and hefted his bags, cinching them down as best he could. ¡°The¡­predators on this world won¡¯t be able to hurt me as easily, right? Since I¡¯m a higher Tier?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Thank God for that. Something good out of this whole mess. The loss of his arm stung, but he knew that salvation and reattachment was not too far off. I can survive. I will survive. The next few days passed quickly as Jace found out that, in addition to having these predators deal less damage, they were intimidated by him. As if they had some innate danger sense that his higher Tier made him a threat. He was never even accosted. They steered clear. The fact that these things viewed him as a danger to be avoided filled him with a sense of confidence despite his injury. The portal was visible far before he reached it. An enormous, skyscraper-high aperture that was a hundred feet across. It thrummed with a calm, soothing, pastel-blue tone, and small arcs of white flashed across the expanse. ¡°That¡¯s big,¡± Jace commented. ¡°The Architects wanted to ensure that large populations could go through these portals. And take their personal effects with them.¡± Ollie flew around Jace¡¯s neck; a starlit, furry scarf. Not actually touching him - just hovering there. ¡°We can still be attacked in The Cosmic Corridor and Khrox, right?¡± Jace asked.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. ¡°Yup. But Xera is going to cause some ruckus in Khrox. And, we have done a good job stopping any Wayfinder queries about you ¨C so you are still unknown by most.¡± ¡°Except General Logistics. They want their fluid stuff back.¡± ¡°Yup.¡± Jace sighed and nodded, ¡°Okay. Here we go.¡± He continued walking and once he passed by a hill he saw a large series of wood-looking structures. Barricades and sharpened stakes. As he got closer, he could see that the woodgrain was stone. ¡°What¡¯s this all for?¡± ¡°Ascendants setting up defenses. It is relatively common. They try to ¡®stake¡¯ their claim early.¡± He chuckled, ¡°Stake claim, get it? Because there¡¯s spiked stakes pointing out.¡± ¡°Yes, very funny,¡± Jace replied as he cracked the smallest smile he could to humor his Wayfinder. There was no sign of life on or around the structures. Jace fired off the grapnel to the top of one of the walls and pulled himself up and over the barricade. Getting down the other side of the barricade was easy, and he got to the portal. Testing it with his hand, he felt a tingling feeling through the prosthetic integration. Okay. Here we go. He pushed his way through. There was a bright flash of pastel-blue light that filled his vision, and then he found himself surrounded by thousands of people. Species of all different builds, forms, and shapes. Horned humanoids, literal blobs of slime, animalistic hybridized humanoids, a¡­floating gecko? Jace was awestruck at the sheer absurdity of what he was witnessing. There are...countless different people here. He also made note of a dull-brown letter C that was over the vast majority of their hands or hand-like appendages. That must mark them as a Civilian, he thought. It wasn¡¯t a beacon like his symbol was, drawing attention to the glow. But he saw a handful of those symbols amongst the crowd. ¡°Welcome to The Cosmic Corridor,¡± Ollie stated with a smile. He was clearly audible, but the tumult of voices and activity was like a constant buzz in the background. ¡°Where you can get to any world connected to The Cosmic System.¡± Jace looked at his prosthetic hand and didn¡¯t see the Cosmic Power symbol. It was on my other hand. ¡°Ollie? I don¡¯t have my symbol anymore.¡± Ollie looked back at him, ¡°Huh, would you look at that. That is convenient for moving about unnoticed.¡± Jace looked around and took in the space itself. The Cosmic Corridor was an enormous¡­tunnel, for lack of a better term. The walls and ceiling looked like a hardened version of the Starlit Sea, and the enormous portals were spread at intervals of approximately one-hundred feet apart. There were plaques on the walls that stated the world name. ¡°I want to go to Quinn¡¯s shop. I have stuff to sell, and she can give us a lead on how to find someone who can reattach my arm.¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°Just think of where you want to go and begin walking. In a minute, you will get there.¡± Jace pictured Quinn in his mind and joined the crowd. He could feel the vibrant energy in the air, and the shock of seeing these countless unknown species filled him with a giddy excitement and sense of wonder. Never in his life had he ever imagined he would see something like this. It was stupefying. There was a whole universe of different species and peoples ¨C and he was walking among them. The feeling of being just a small cog in a much bigger machine imposed itself like it never had before, and Jace truly felt the enormity of The Cosmic System and how insignificant he was in the grand scheme of the universe itself. The world seemingly warped around him, and Jace reflexively planted his feet into the ground. He was still in The Cosmic Corridor, but further down the road he saw enormous, towering skyscrapers that shot upward to a bright, clear, blue sky. In front of him was a storefront; seemingly built into the wall of the corridor itself. The Star Market, Jace read to himself. The building fa?ade was just like one of the many shops that Jace boosted from back on Earth ¨C shimmering chrome with geometric patterns etched and filled with a neon color. In this case ¨C a pink that burned his retinas. He put his prosthetic hand to the door and entered. The building was small. A couple of couches were set in a front vestibule, and those were in front of a counter. Jace heard movement to his right and reflexively took a step back, hand going for his sword. But he saw who it was and let the inevitable bear hug envelop him. Greg let out a raucous laugh, ¡°You¡¯re alive!¡± he shouted as he squeezed tightly before letting Jace go. ¡°Good to see you. But, uh¡­you lost another arm?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie stated as he flew up. ¡°But we are going to get that sorted.¡± Jace looked over and saw Quinn behind the counter. She had a dour expression, and Jace returned the look. Just keep it business professional, Jace thought as he walked over to the counter. ¡°I have stuff to sell and want to buy information.¡± Quinn nodded, ¡°Please place your items on the countertop for evaluation.¡± Jace set his bag up on the counter and pulled out the damaged Runner¡¯s Replacement prosthetics, his sliverscreen, three of the canteens leaving him with one, the forty arc reactor components, and the two hyperbike components. That¡¯ll make it easier to get around, he thought as he hefted the much lighter bag. ¡°Your sliverscreen? Do you plan on never visiting Earth again?¡± Jace shook his head, ¡°Eventually I¡¯ll be going back there. But I know General Logistics has a lock on them. Here¡¯s what I¡¯m looking for. I want a sliverscreen that can¡¯t be tracked. And information on someone who can put my arm back on. Offset my Stardust by the amount.¡± He smiled, ¡°And don¡¯t forget the 25% Stardust I receive, and the 25% reduction for your services.¡± Quinn rolled her eyes and sighed but nodded curtly. ¡°Fine. Give me a few minutes to evaluate all of this.¡± She sat down in a chair behind the counter and went slack in the chair. Greg walked up behind Jace, ¡°Now that we have a moment alone¡­how¡¯d you lose the arm?¡± ¡°Ascendant,¡± Jace replied. ¡°But he¡¯s dead now.¡± ¡°No shit?¡± Jace nodded, ¡°It was a tough fight. But I got the better of him.¡± He frowned slightly as Greg¡¯s eyes went wide. ¡°What?¡± The spider, Darrin, came out from where he was hiding behind Greg¡¯s back. ¡°I examined your information but found a block on it. From X.¡± Ollie flew over and cleared his throat, waving his paws back and forth. ¡°Nothing to see here, move along.¡± Greg spoke, ¡°Did you get a favor from someone powerful?¡± ¡°You could say that¡± Jace replied. ¡°I¡¯m not supposed to talk about it.¡± ¡°All right,¡± Greg replied as he flashed a smile. ¡°Well, it¡¯s good to see you alive and well. Mostly.¡± He hiked his thumb back at himself, ¡°I¡¯ve got this nice gig getting me set up well. Level 4 already.¡± Jace chuckled, ¡°Level 26 here.¡± ¡°No shit?¡± Jace nodded once more, ¡°I¡¯m Tier 2.¡± ¡°But you didn¡¯t choose an Ascended Power or Advanced Class? Why?¡± ¡°I have to reach Tier 10 to get Chroma back. And your Class progression is locked when you choose your Ascended Power.¡± Greg nodded in understanding as Quinn took a deep breath and jolted up in her seat. ¡°Well,¡± she said as she stood up fully and smoothed out her clothes. ¡°The total of all this stuff is 4,380. With your 25% bonus Stardust from our¡­deal, that comes out to 5475. An information search for Ascendants with the Skills to repair your injury is 100 Stardust, with your 25% discount on services and purchases becomes 75 Stardust.¡± ¡°So, I get 5400,¡± Jace summarized as he tracked the numbers with relative ease. He did not get much schooling, but numbers came to him easily. ¡°That is correct. I¡¯ll complete the transfer now.¡± She looked up at Valerie, who flitted down from a small perch on the wall that Jace hadn¡¯t even noticed. She tapped Ollie with her wing, and there was a flash of blue light. The bird Wayfinder then flapped back up to her perch. ¡°And that concludes that transaction. Your Wayfinder has the knowledge required to reach the appropriate Ascendant for your arm.¡± Ollie nodded and wrapped himself back around Jace¡¯s neck. ¡°Yup! Got it.¡± She frowned, ¡°As for a sliverscreen, I can¡¯t get you one at this time that is untraceable.¡± ¡°One more thing,¡± Jace replied. ¡°I want to know if you have or can get ahold of some type of repair kit for my magitech prosthetics.¡± Quinn nodded, ¡°I can acquire a repair kit for magitech, magic, and purely technological prosthetics. It is automated, so you just set it up, feed in raw resources, and give it time to work. The full kit will cost 500 Stardust.¡± ¡°With my discount?¡± Quinn sighed, ¡°375 Stardust.¡± ¡°Deal.¡± She nodded, ¡°Come back in a day and I¡¯ll have it.¡± Her hair flared with a golden glow, and her eyes took on the same hue as she manifested a Class Skill. A golden screen appeared above her, she signed something on it, and she flipped it around to Jace. He couldn¡¯t make out the legalese, but at Ollie¡¯s prodding, he signed it with his fingertip. ¡°Now, if you¡¯ll excuse me, I have business to deal with.¡± Quinn left and went into a back room. ¡°After all that, you¡¯re at 5380 Stardust total,¡± Ollie said. Jace turned to Greg, ¡°Well¡­It¡¯s good seeing you, man.¡± ¡°Likewise. Come visit me sometime. I¡¯ll take you out for a beer.¡± Jace nodded and left The Star Market, heading into Khrox. Ollie pulled up a screen in front of him, ¡°This is Jonsar Velicole. A freelance Ascendant with levels in the Doctor Class and Surgeon Advanced Class. Focus on their face, and you will reach them in a minute.¡± Okay. Focus on them. Jace affixed the face in his mind and began walking towards The Eternal City. Chapter 30 – The Civilian life and a new contact
Jace arrived in front of an enormous building. The exterior was pure white, and a series of enormous glass doors were set into the front. A hospital, according to the name across the top of the doors. Thousands of people were milling about into and out of the doors. ¡°There are a lot of different entrances for different specialties,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°Go into the main lobby, then turn right¡­¡± Jace followed Ollie¡¯s instructions. As he entered the building, there was a brief gust of wind, and he found to his astonishment that all his clothes were instantly cleaned ¨C pristine save for the holes and frayed portions. That¡¯s useful, he thought. But it makes sense ¨C you don¡¯t want someone filthy in a hospital. It would make diagnosing them more difficult. He was able to get through the facility rapidly despite the enormous, milling crowds who were there for some medical reason or another. Once more, Jace was struck by how different all these species were ¨C but they all shared a common trait in that building. They weren¡¯t well in some way, shape, or form. It seems like no one is safe from injury or disease. The medical care appeared to be top-notch. Inquiring with other people around him ¨C idle chatter to pass the short queue ¨C Jace learned that The Cosmic System provided free healthcare of all types to any Civilian, Aspirant, or Ascendant. But the automatic doctor stations were not equipped to deal with every possible affliction given the numerous species across the universe. Specialists like the person Jace was on his way to meet filled in those niches. Often, they were Civilians who wanted to keep practicing their craft, but in some instances, they were Aspirants or Ascendants who chose a Class and Advanced Class appropriate to their profession. Jonsar Velicole was a Tier 4 Ascendant and worked primarily on humanoid species, specializing in limb reattachment and replacement. Jace finally reached a waiting room about fifteen minutes after entering the building. There were three other people present, and he approached a screen on the wall to check in. ¡°Ollie, what should I put in for name?¡± ¡°Flicker. Use the code name. Since this is your first time obtaining healthcare from The Cosmic System, you will have a new patient file generated with the code name.¡± Jace nodded and entered the name, as well as other basic information: height, weight, etcetera. <<<<<>>>>> [Thank you for registering your account. Jonsar Velicole will see you shortly.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace glanced at the other people in the room. All of the humanoid aliens were tapping on a device in their palms. Jace sat down next to one that looked bored and cleared his throat, ¡°Excuse me.¡± The purple-skinned woman looked up at him. She looked very human, minus the eyes. Where the eyes should be, instead there was just flesh. ¡°Yes?¡± ¡°What is that device?¡± Jace asked, pointing at the object in her hands. ¡°Oh, you must be new!¡± She smiled, and Jace could see her teeth were all flat on top ¨C no canines. ¡°This is a cosmopanel. Does your world have communication devices?¡± Jace nodded, ¡°We have sliverscreens.¡± She held up the device in front of him, ¡°This lets you contact people using The Cosmic System. It¡¯s like a Civilian version of a Wayfinder. You can also contact other Civilians with them, or even Wayfinders¡­if you have Aspirant or Ascendant friends.¡± Ollie floated in front of Jace ¨C invisible to those in the room save for him ¨C and nodded, ¡°Yup! That¡¯s like a worse version of me.¡± ¡°Is it worth me getting one?¡± Jace asked Ollie. ¡°Not really-¡± Ollie began to reply, but was cut off by the woman who couldn¡¯t see or hear him. ¡°I think everyone should have one. You can watch shows like Zzezox and Misthledorp.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve heard that before,¡± Jace replied. ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°It¡¯s a panel talk show. They bring in people from all across The Cosmic System and interview them. You really get to¡­feel how other people experience life across the universe. It¡¯s been the hottest show for years now.¡± She sighed, ¡°Too bad I only have about twenty left.¡± ¡°Twenty what?¡± ¡°Years,¡± she replied as she tapped the device and put it away in a pocket. ¡°Civilians are locked to a 150-year lifespan. When that runs out, I can either stay here and die, or go back to my home world and live out the remainder of my normal lifespan.¡± She frowned, and her voice was tinged with curiosity, ¡°How¡¯d you not know that?¡± Because I didn¡¯t choose Civilian, is what Jace would have said. But he had to keep himself as concealed as possible. He didn¡¯t have a ¡®no willful harm¡¯ flag like these people had. ¡°I just didn¡¯t listen much when that merging thing happened.¡± The woman nodded, ¡°It¡¯s a lot at once, I get it.¡± She reached into her bag and pulled out a small notecard, ¡°I host events for new Civilians so they can mingle with other species.¡± She handed it to him, and Jace saw a picture of a building on it. ¡°Just focus on that place, walk a minute in any direction, and then you¡¯ll arrive. We meet every three days. The back of the card has the times.¡± ¡°Thank you,¡± Jace replied. ¡°If you don¡¯t mind me asking ¨C why are you seeing a limb specialist?¡± She smirked and ¨C to Jace¡¯s shock ¨C took off her arm with a schlorp. There was still connective tissue holding on, ¡°My species sheds limbs every few years. It takes a whole month to regrow them, but this specialist can stimulate the growth so I¡¯m only waiting a day.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Thank you for your openness. I¡¯m learning a lot today.¡± ¡°Of course,¡± she replied. The door at the end of the hall opened, and a robotic voice said her name. ¡°Well, my turn.¡± ¡°Wait!¡± Jace interrupted. ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡± As she left, Ollie floated over in front of Jace and had a smug expression. ¡°What?¡± Jace asked. ¡°You did a good job. Learning quite a bit of information while revealing almost none of your own.¡± ¡°It seems like she was very open because of her new Civilian support group.¡± Ollie was about to respond, but the door opened again. ¡°Flicker,¡± the robotic voice called out. Jace stood up, walked through the doorway, and followed a series of illuminated arrows along the floor until he arrived in a circular room. It was an austere white with equally white lights above. The floor was smooth with a drain at the center, and there were tubes and medical devices all around the chamber. A humanoid creature with what appeared to be slime cascading down his skin was seated in an office chair. He had four arms along both sides of his torso; slowly decreasing in size. Only two legs though, which struck Jace as slightly odd given the number of arms. His head was bald. This whole day has been filled with crazy visuals, Jace thought as he nodded. ¡°Doctor Velicole?¡±Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. ¡°Just call me Jonsar,¡± the man replied as he stood up and held out the largest arm for a handshake. Jace returned the gesture. ¡°Welcome. I checked your chart ¨C new to The Cosmic System, eh?¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Yeah. Really new.¡± He noted the glowing, brown and green Planet Cosmic Power symbol, and in the center of it was a vibrant, blue dot. ¡°I saw your Wayfinder. I don¡¯t mind my patients keeping their identity a secret, but I know you¡¯re an Aspirant.¡± Ollie floated down from where he was hiding in the ceiling, ¡°Yup.¡± Jonsar shrugged, ¡°It matters little in the end. So, what am I doing for you?¡± Jace reached into his messenger bag and pulled out his severed arm. ¡°I¡¯d like this reattached.¡± Jonsar grabbed it and the slime from his hands oozed around the limb, ¡°Hmm. Severed by a blade. Clean cut. This should be easy.¡± He looked up at Jace, ¡°I can do a free reattachment¡­or, if you have Stardust you¡¯re willing to spend, I can do something better.¡± His eyes glowed green, and a holographic version of Jace appeared in the air. ¡°But first, a diagnostic. Let¡¯s see¡­¡± He went silent for a minute and his mouth moved rapidly. Jace could barely hear the faint exhalation as he talked to himself. Jace looked up at Ollie, ¡°What do you think?¡± ¡°Let us wait to hear the options he presents,¡± Ollie replied. Jonsar¡¯s eyes returned to normal, ¡°Okay. Wow, you have some good prostheses. Some of the highest grade magitech prostheses I¡¯ve ever seen. Not to mention their integration is far superior to any operation I¡¯ve ever encountered. That is due to this¡­Cyberconnect Integration Fluid.¡± He looked at Jace as the floating panel vanished. ¡°What did you get into?¡± ¡°Well, more like what got on me.¡± Jace quickly went through the story of his fight with the Vyrknadine, and Jonsar asked a few clarifying questions here and there until Jace finished with, ¡°And then I completed some Quests and got these prosthetics.¡± ¡°Interesting¡­¡± Jonsar¡¯s face was hard to read ¨C partly due to the slimy exterior, partly due to his different-from-human facial features. ¡°You also were subjected to a magitech serum of some type.¡± ¡°A super soldier project,¡± Ollie clarified. ¡°Well, good news and bad news. The good news is that you are going to be in peak physical health for the rest of your life. Only the strongest infections, diseases, poisons, and venom could harm your body. And you can consume extra calories to fuel your metabolic healing rate. Fascinating. Not quite to the level of regeneration, but damned close. You will need to eat a lot more than most other people.¡± He grimaced, ¡°The downside is you¡¯re sterile. No kids. It won¡¯t impact sexual activity and arousal, but you can¡¯t reproduce.¡± It¡¯s not like I wanted any kids, Jace thought. And the benefits are way better than the consequences. ¡°Good to know.¡± ¡°May I take a sample of the fluid enabling the prosthetic integration? It is still free-floating around inside you¡­sort of. It¡¯s hard to explain.¡± Jace looked up to Ollie, and the Wayfinder shrugged before responding, ¡°I do not see the harm. One of these Earth mega corporations is working on more of the stuff, I would imagine.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not so sure,¡± Jace replied as the chair he was sitting in flattened out to become an exam table. ¡°Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have sent someone for it.¡± ¡°Please disrobe,¡± Jonsar stated. Jace nodded and quickly stripped down, leaving his clothes and gear in a pile next to the table. Jonsar waved his hands, the glowing green light appeared above Jace, and he felt a small suction sensation against his chest. A tiny, pin-sized droplet of ferrofluid rose from his skin and floated in the air, suspended in a bubble of green. ¡°Fascinating,¡± the doctor stated. ¡°It is an intriguing take on a concept I¡¯ve muddled with before.¡± He looked at Jace and smiled, ¡°This Cyberconnect fluid, CIF I suppose if we want to use acronyms, coats the interior of the body and bonds on a molecular level with the prosthetic and the person¡¯s natural body structures.¡± Ollie floated above Jace, ¡°Is it dangerous?¡± ¡°No. In fact¡­¡± Jonsar waved his hand, and the ferrofluid in the green sphere expanded further and grew in volume. ¡°Since it is technically derived from metal, I can use a Skill to create more of it from this sample.¡± He looked down at Jace, ¡°I could give you back your usual arm, but I happen to have a fantastic prosthetic that I think would work wonderfully given this fluid you have running through you.¡± ¡°How much?¡± Jace asked. ¡°3,000 Stardust.¡± Jace looked up at Ollie, ¡°I think that sounds pretty good.¡± Ollie flew over to Jonsar and waved his paw. Jonsar held up his hand as Stardust went from the river otter to the physician, ¡°Deal.¡± ¡°Excellent. Now, this is going to feel like you¡¯re choking on fluid in your lungs. The sensation will only last for 3.2 seconds.¡± Jonsar gripped the floating green sphere and shoved it onto Jace¡¯s chest. The fluid soaked into his torso, and Jace felt himself choking and struggling for air. Just like when he was pinned underwater and his jacket got caught during a dive into the river. The sensation passed after a few seconds, and Jace took in a deep, wracking breath before coughing. ¡°What did you do?¡± ¡°Previously, you had very little CIF in your body. Not enough for it to fully bond the prosthetics. Now, you have enough that it can coat your whole interior. Which means that your prosthetics ¨C whether magical, magitech, or purely technology-based ¨C will perfectly integrate and blend with your physical form. You¡¯ll notice sensation return to the limbs, and you¡¯ll be able to feel just like you would with a regular arm. I also kept a sample for myself¡­but not for sale. I¡¯ll use this to help patients.¡± He frowned, ¡°Magnets might be an issue down the road. But, that¡¯s true of any prosthetics with metal components.¡± Jace nodded as he felt a tingling sensation in his legs ¨C the first sensation aside from feeling something crushed under the claws. The cool pressure of air on his skin ¨C despite not having skin ¨C and the slight warmth of the metal table under him. ¡°That¡¯s crazy,¡± Jace muttered. His arm began to pick up sensation as well ¨C the same cool air and warm table. ¡°So, this prosthetic,¡± Jonsar said as he got up from his chair and walked towards a cabinet on the wall. ¡°Comes from a high-magic world called Harkon Secundus ¨C a Tier 8 world.¡± He walked over to Jace and showed him the prosthetic. It was a shining black hue with golden lines of some arcane language scrolled across it. ¡°It¡¯s something that would qualify as Legendary Equipment.¡± ¡°It sounds expensive,¡± Jace commented. Jonsar smirked, ¡°Well, it would be very pricey, for a normal person. 10,000 Stardust. But you¡¯re not a normal person, are you, Jace Seren?¡± Jace froze, and Ollie spoke, ¡°How did you know his name?¡± Jonsar laughed, ¡°Seriously? They didn¡¯t tell you?¡± He shook his head, ¡°X, of course. Whoever they are reached out to me with a message and told me that they would be very thankful for any extra help I could give to you. They have pull with the Ascendant who runs the whole hospital, and they would call in a favor to get me some Aspirant subordinates. I¡¯d like to expand my practice.¡± Good to know that Xera is keeping an eye out for me. Jace nodded, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s attach it.¡± Jonsar frowned, ¡°I¡¯m going to have to strap you down, and ask that you consent to my use of a Skill to remove your sensation of pain. This prosthetic needs to go into the shoulder socket ¨C and you still have flesh attached up in there.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°I consent. Go ahead, do your thing.¡± Jonsar¡¯s hands glowed with a vibrant, healthy green hue, and he tapped Jace¡¯s head. ¡°There. Your ability to feel pain has been removed temporarily. I still need to strap you down just to make sure my cuts are precise.¡± He got up and moved around the table, strapping Jace in. He left Jace¡¯s line of sight, and came back, ¡°I will begin the process now.¡± Chapter 31 – A new lease on life and giving thanks
Jace lay there for a good fifteen minutes before Jonsar finished removing his arm and began attaching the new one. ¡°The prosthetic¡¯s proper name is Anathema Arm. It has a Skill included, called The Arbiter¡¯s Anathema ¨C which lets you deactivate any Skill you can see, once per day, and locks the person who used the Skill from re-using it for 24 hours.¡± He began integrating something into Jace¡¯s shoulder socket ¨C but the Aspirant couldn¡¯t look to see what was happening. ¡°That sounds quite potent,¡± Ollie stated as he swam in circles above the two. ¡°Oh, it is,¡± Jonsar replied. ¡°Plus, on worlds with magic or magitech, the arm itself acts as anathema ¨C magic and magitech just won¡¯t affect it. Which means you can also use it to break barriers, spell shields, all sorts of neat applications. That¡¯s just a passive trait.¡± He chuckled, ¡°I am happy this is finally seeing some use. A faction traded it to me in exchange for services years ago and I¡¯ve been saving it for a special occasion.¡± ¡°Are you part of a faction?¡± Jace asked as he felt the slight tug of something connected to the inside of his torso, and fingers reaching around inside his shoulder socket. ¡°I didn¡¯t notice your fingers as a weird color ¨C but you have that greenish slimy skin.¡± ¡°I am not a part of any faction. I am a free agent. But I serve most factions equally. Limbs might be my specialty, but I often leave The Eternal City to make house calls or emergency runs to other worlds. The exception is the Black Hole Conclave ¨C I don¡¯t help those fuckers.¡± Jace felt a sensation in his left arm ¨C a feeling of warmth. The straps around him were released, and he felt a slight pulse of dull pain near his shoulder joint. Sitting up, he examined the new limb and began manipulating the fingers. It was symmetrical to his other arm ¨C so he was not lopsided, thankfully. The pain quickly faded. It felt like his arm. It wasn¡¯t a prosthetic, it felt like it was a part of him. Looking down at the legs, he felt the slight tingle of cool air drifting over his still-nude form. There was a weird shifting under his skin, the CIF surging into the prosthetics. He didn¡¯t feel like he had artificial components¡­they felt natural. No wonder General Logistics wants this stuff back. ¡°Those legs are impressive,¡± Jonsar said as he stood up and stretched. ¡°Omni-directional joints for the knees and ankles, plus those claws are quite versatile; grappling and slicing.¡± He chuckled, ¡°You¡¯re more machine now than man.¡± Jace stood up and began getting dressed, ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡± He held up his left hand and watched as the symbol of Dark Matter appeared on the back of the black and gold limb. ¡°I was curious if that would come back.¡± Jonsar¡¯s eyes glowed green once more as the diagnostic panel appeared above him with a visual representation of Jace¡¯s body. ¡°This is wonderful! That CIF is really a groundbreaking discovery. Normally prosthetics max out at 80% of integration rate, but you¡¯re at a full 100%.¡± ¡°Too bad a mega corporation wants it back at all costs,¡± Jace replied as he finished re-equipping himself. ¡°That seems easy to deal with,¡± Jonsar replied. ¡°I can just produce a bunch of the stuff for you to take back.¡± Jace frowned, ¡°I don¡¯t want a megacorp getting their hands on it and monopolizing it. It¡¯ll just give them more power. Maybe if someone else takes over.¡± ¡°Fair enough. Well, I¡¯m not going to mass produce it or anything of that nature. I¡¯ll keep it in-house for the time being.¡± He smiled, ¡°If you need any more medical help, I¡¯m your guy. House calls or on-the-spot ¡®travel¡¯ calls are extra!¡± ¡°Is there a place where I can restock my medkit here?¡± ¡°First floor pharmacy.¡± Jonsar walked Jace to the door and shook his hand, ¡°Pleasure doing business. Stay safe out there! If X has you doing their business, well, you¡¯re doing something good.¡± The door slid shut. Jace flicked the slime away from his hand and it flung to the floor before it dissipated. He could feel the slime wick away, and the sensation of touch brought a smile to his face. Getting to the pharmacy was easy enough, and Jace was able to refill his medkit with antibiotics, bandages, painkillers, and a medical foam-in-a-can that could be used in a pinch to seal up a large wound ¨C like if he had a gaping one in his chest. All for the low, low price of 150 Stardust. ¡°Where next?¡± Ollie asked. ¡°Did X end up getting me a place to crash?¡± ¡°Yup. Just focus on this image-¡± A screen appeared in the corner of Jace¡¯s eye, and he focused on the building as he began walking. A minute later, reality warped around him, and he was standing in front of the building. A nondescript, metal and concrete structure that looked very mediocre. Perfect for blending in and not drawing attention. Ollie flew up to the door and interacted with some panel. The door slid open, and Jace followed his Wayfinder inside. The door shut behind him. ¡°Welcome to your new home!¡± Ollie said proudly. Jace walked down the long hallway after Ollie. It was neat and very austere; no trace of dirt or debris was on the floor, and there were dozens of doors on either side. Ollie led him to an elevator which was nondescript ¨C just like the building exterior ¨C and the two went up several floors before Jace stepped out. Ollie led him to a door and tapped his paw against a panel on the wall. ¡°Okay. Now, you need to put your palm-¡± He frowned, ¡°No palm print. Umm. Okay. Foo-¡± Jace sighed, ¡°Is there an optical scan?¡± ¡°Oh, yeah! Look right here.¡± Jace did as he was instructed, and the panel beeped and flashed green. The door slid open, and he walked into an apartment. As the door slid shut behind him, he felt overwhelmed. My own place. I finally have my own place to live. Having lived on the street for most of his life, the closest thing to ¡®home¡¯ was the lean-to that he built behind a wayward dumpster near the river. He was damned proud of that construction; cleaning out the container itself to act as an inner room that was safer than the windbreak outside. It was his and Chroma¡¯s home. But this¡­this was home, now. The floor was stone tile that his claws clacked on as he walked around the space and took it all in. The space wasn¡¯t enormous ¨C just three modest sized rooms ¨C but he felt a surge of joy and delight. I¡¯ve got my own bedroom, my own bathroom, and another room for whatever?! It was luxurious; that was the only way he could describe it. Ollie flew in front of him and paddled in the air through shimmering waves of nebula, ¡°The room is soundproof and surveillance-proof. No one will know what goes on here. Just you, me, and Xera. Oh, she also wanted me to do one more thing.¡± Ollie floated over to a panel on the wall ¨C there was one such panel in each room ¨C and he opened a catalogue. ¡°She called in some favors with merchants who owed her. You have several options¡­¡± Jace walked over and looked through what was effectively a designer catalogue for home d¨¦cor. ¡°I want that one,¡± Jace said as he pointed out a three-dimensional representation of a room inspired by the Starlit Sea where the Wayfinders congregated. ¡°That for the bedroom.¡± ¡°Good choice. I always love being there.¡± Jace continued perusing for a good hour. If this is my new place, I want it to feel like mine. ¡°Let¡¯s do water themes for the bathroom. Rivers. Not oceans.¡± ¡°Generic,¡± Ollie muttered sarcastically. ¡°But you do like the water. My current form is proof of that.¡± ¡°And that open room¡­I want it to be snow themed. Let¡¯s have it be for entertaining guests.¡± Jace had experienced winter many times, and even though the cold was always biting, he loved the snow. It was one of the few positive childhood memories he had from the orphanage ¨C the snow days in the small lot behind the building. Pelting each other with the slightly-grey, cold packed powder. ¡°Done! Orders are sent off. They¡¯ll show up and decorate when we¡¯re gone.¡± ¡°Wait. Won¡¯t that mean that they¡¯ll know where I live?¡± Ollie shook his head, ¡°No. The minute-long warp travel only takes you outside buildings where a person or place is located. Never inside. And this building is one of thousands that look identical. As for them remembering this place? Trust Xera.¡±Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. Jace nodded, ¡°What about guests? I¡¯d love to have Greg and his lady friend over. I¡¯ve never actually had a friend visit¡­I just have never had a place to invite them to.¡± ¡°If you want it, we can make it work. Greg has a Wayfinder, so we should be able to coordinate that way.¡± ¡°Well¡­what now?¡± Jace asked. Ollie floated through the air, ¡°Take a day or two to relax. Xera said she¡¯s researching a good, Tier 2 world for us to acquire Stardust and other rewards. A place with a lot of Complexes.¡± That reminds me¡­ <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 26.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting.], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3), Cosmic Infusion (Rank 7), Starfire Stride (1/day), Arbiter''s Anathema (1/day) Stardust: 2230 Equipment: Swordmage blade, Swordmage starting gear, Wirecannon Arm, Anathema Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, messenger bag, survival meals (x46), canteen, medical kit, flint bar, flashlight Boons: Legendary (Equipment) <<<<<>>>>> ¡°I still have a Legendary (Equipment) Boon to use.¡± ¡°Any thoughts?¡± Ollie asked. ¡°I was going to use it to replace my arm if needed, but that was taken care of. What do you suggest?¡± ¡°Hmm. Well, your clothes could use some improvement. Better armor.¡± ¡°I earned the Boon on the magitech world, so what do they have that¡¯s lightweight but stronger than this Swordmage starting gear?¡± Ollie¡¯s eyes went black and his voice went monotone and robotic, ¡°Accessing System. Standby¡­¡± Jace walked around the apartment once more, taking in the space. His space. The thought that this place was his filled him with such joy that he couldn¡¯t help but laugh aloud. From a life on the streets, to phenomenal Cosmic Power at his disposal, to near-death experiences¡­and now a place to call his own. It felt good, being rewarded for his hard work. And not having an employer screw him over. I should thank Xera. Maybe get her a present. What would I even get her? Ollie came back online a moment later, his eyes snapping back to their blue orbs. ¡°I found something that works pretty well. Want me to activate the Boon?¡± ¡°Hit it.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Legendary (Equipment).] [Manifesting.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace¡¯s clothing vanished and was replaced immediately by a jumpsuit that hugged his body like a second skin up to his neck. The moderate temperature in the room around him shifted between hot, then cold, before returning to normal. Some type of armored and padded set of pants manifested on his body in a surge of pastel-blue starlight; covered in tiny, flexible scales that shimmered in the light. An armored shirt made of the same material appeared on his torso, and an accompanying hooded jacket. A belt with several utility slots completed his new look. ¡°There you go! (Medium) Devastation Armor. Stronger, more resilient, more flexible, and much more stylish than your starting gear. This is the top-level of military clothing that allows for mobility-based combat. There is a (Heavy) suit ¨C but that would slow you down considerably, and you fight with agility and nimbleness.¡± ¡°Awesome,¡± Jace replied as he looked over his new clothes. ¡°Now I just have to get some type of better bag to hold everything,¡± he muttered, looking at the messenger bag from his courier job, and the duffel bag from the hidden research outpost. ¡°Something that is durable and can carry a lot. Looting stuff to sell made a ton of Stardust.¡± ¡°I agree. There are several merchants we could visit that could acquire such an item. Or you could go back to The Star Market-¡± ¡°No,¡± Jace cut him off. ¡°I¡¯m not going to abuse the deal I have with Quinn. I won¡¯t take advantage of it constantly. At least for buying stuff.¡± Ollie shrugged, ¡°Then a place more local? I know a merchant who sells what you are looking for, only 100 Stardust.¡± ¡°Good. But that¡¯s not all I want to do,¡± Jace said as he left the apartment and went down the elevator, Ollie curling around his neck like a furry scarf. ¡°I also have someone to meet. Someone to thank.¡± Someone who saved my life
Beep. Beep. Beep. The alarm kept going off. Shhiv-zal tapped the panel inside her tank before rousing and unclipping from the wall tethers that kept her upright in the watery cube. Checking the time, she froze. It¡¯s not my alarm, she thought. So why was it beeping? Tapping the panel, her breath caught in her gills. In front of her building was that Aspirant she had talked to almost a month ago. What was his name? She fumbled for her cosmopanel and went through her notes. Jace. Jace Seren. Shit! I told him I¡¯d take him out on the town? She groaned and tossed the device to the side as she swam out of her bedroom and into the main room. I don¡¯t get paid until next week! She was instantly dried as she stepped onto a green tile in front of the bedroom door. Grabbing the cosmopanel, she opened up the application that connected it to her building¡¯s front entry. Just audio for now. Don¡¯t want to scare him off. ¡°Hi there! Jace, right?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± He smiled, but was looking away from the camera aperture. ¡°You¡¯re Shhiv-zal, right? The person who introduced me to the whole Cosmic System stuff?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± she said as she twirled her finger through her hair. ¡°You got me up a few hours before my shift.¡± ¡°Oh, sorry. My bad. I can come back later if you wa-¡± ¡°No! It¡¯s fine!¡± she blurted out. Her voice rapidly spilled out, ¡°I normally go exercise before work anyways. Sorry, it¡¯s just, wow. Aspirants never come to visit people like me.¡± ¡°Like you?¡± he asked. ¡°Civilians, I mean. Especially simple System Operators at the lowest level. Listen¡­um¡­I don¡¯t really have the funds to take you out on the town like I said I would¡­¡± Jace waved his hand dismissively, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that. I¡¯m loaded.¡± He grinned and chuckled, ¡°First time I¡¯ve ever said that in my life. I would love to get something to eat. I¡¯ve been eating sludge out of survival packs for weeks now.¡± ¡°Okay! Give me ten minutes? I know a great place!¡± He nodded and gave a thumbs up ¨C she saw that his arm wasn¡¯t the same as when she was first giving him the run-down of The Cosmic System and inputting his data. It was a mechanical limb. Black with gold lines running through it. Taking a moment to really look at him instead of just staring at his gorgeous, brown eyes; she saw his other arm was a blue metal with a geometric black pattern. Even his feet were not like other earthlings she had input into the System ¨C deep red with the same geometric black linework, and they were claws of some predator animal. Must have had a rough Aspirant Trial, she thought. Setting the cosmopanel down, she took a deep breath. Okay. Good first impressions. Good first impressions. Running to the restroom she quickly brushed her sharp teeth and got into some clothing appropriate for going out and about. I¡¯ll catch up on my sleep later. Just skip tonight¡¯s show. Ah! I can¡¯t believe it! This is so exciting! Chapter 32 – Do first dates always end like this?
Jace leaned against the nondescript apartment building. It was just like the one he was living in, except it was a different color. Instead of a dull grey, it was a deep blue. Ollie explained while he waited that many Civilians who were jobless when Cosmogenic Merging occurred ¨C or who were looking to get away from their home world ¨C would work within The Cosmic System itself. The System could have living people run a bunch of functions through consoles, giving them a sense of purpose. Plus, it gave them a steady income and provided them with their housing. The Cosmic System had its computational load lightened by the manual entry. ¡°Just remember, never tell a Civilian that the System doesn¡¯t really need them. It is not required to have them working ¨C but it does help slightly .¡± ¡°Why not tell them?¡± Jace asked. ¡°People crave a purpose. For some of them, data entry for The Cosmic System is a great purpose. Quite a few, in fact. Plus, they get to talk to new Aspirants and help assuage the loneliness ¨C what you are doing now.¡± The door opened and Ollie wrapped himself around Jace¡¯s neck ¨C partially to hide within the clothing from other Wayfinders, partially to be able to whisper back and forth with Jace. He was caught off guard at the woman that walked out and shut the door behind her. ¡°Hi,¡± she said. The same voice from the console near the door. ¡°Good to meet you in person!¡± She had tan skin with patches of blue, a trio of fins along the top of her head, surrounded by a length of blue and white hair. She was wearing a fitness outfit and was quite athletic in appearance. Her midsection had some type of slits running along the sides, and Jace noticed the slight movement as they opened and shut in time with her breathing. She was extremely fit. Someone who was either genetically blessed or put in a hell of a lot of work in the gym. Shark lady, Jace thought as he returned the smile. ¡°Good to meet you. Shhiv-zal, right?¡± ¡°Shhiv is my name. The -zal part is my pod-designation.¡± She giggled and her sharp, jagged teeth shone in the light. ¡°Thank you for remembering me.¡± Her piercing, bright blue eyes seemingly danced with enthusiasm as the black slits where the iris would be stayed perfectly still, fixated on him. ¡°How couldn¡¯t I? You literally saved my life.¡± She gripped a strand of her hair and twirled it around her finger, ¡°Well¡­sure¡­¡± She had a long tail with a razor-like fin on the back that was tipped with the same white color as her hair, and it swayed back and forth like an excited dog¡¯s tail. ¡°I mean it,¡± Jace said as he put on the most thankful expression he could muster; which wasn¡¯t that difficult. He didn¡¯t even have to force it like he had to force expressions when he was playing up a part in a scheme with the crew he used to run with. It was authentic. ¡°Buying you a meal is the least I can do. And I¡¯ve never bought a meal for anyone except my sister.¡± She got next to him and pulled up her cosmopanel, bringing up an image. ¡°This restaurant is always open. My favorite place for a meal.¡± She put a hand to her chin and frowned, ¡°Humans are omnivores?¡± she asked as she looked at him with a sidelong glance. Jace had to look a little bit down to meet her gaze, having a few inches of height on her. ¡°Yeah. But I haven¡¯t had real food in¡­forever.¡± Her jaw dropped, revealing the sharp, jagged teeth. ¡°What? Really?¡± Jace nodded and began walking as he visualized the location she had shown. ¡°Earth is run by the corps. Some governments still have power, but they¡¯re being bought up. Real food is for the rich. I got synthetic stuff.¡± He reached into his backpack and pulled out one of the ration pouches, ¡°This stuff has been my main meal the past¡­month?¡± She looked sad, but gave a resolute nod, ¡°Then we have to get you some real food.¡± She licked her teeth, and that¡¯s when Jace noticed she didn¡¯t have lips. And she didn¡¯t really have a nose, either. The space between her mouth and eyes protruded slightly, and he spotted tiny slits that moved at the same rate as her ab-gills. ¡°I¡¯ll take any recommendation you have,¡± Jace replied. He was a little surprised when she interlaced her arm around his, resting the crook of her elbow against his. ¡°Oh, and if you have time there¡¯s a fantastic place I love to go swimming. Do you swim?¡± ¡°I do,¡± Jace replied. ¡°I think you¡¯d outswim me.¡± Inside, he felt an odd tumult of emotions. Is it normal for a person to be this bold? Maybe it is? Is this what a date is? I¡¯ve never been on a date before. He whispered down his shirt, ¡°Ollie? Help.¡± The otter either didn¡¯t hear him or ignored him. The slight grin he could make out in the outline of the shape told Jace which response was the likely one. Fine. Be that way. I¡¯m going to assume that this is a date. ¡°Ah, but I have to work today! Well, maybe later if you¡¯re in town for a while,¡± Shhiv said. The world shifted around them and Jace found himself ¨C still arm in arm ¨C in front of a flat, single-story building. There was a large entrance, and Shhiv pushed through the door nearly dragging Jace along with her. She waved her hand at a plump, squid-humanoid standing behind the counter. ¡°Hi Bhev!¡± She turned to Jace, ¡°This is Bhev-val, one of my best friends from my world." The squid-lady was human-like, save for her dark, green skin and ten tentacle-like arms that were busy with a variety of tasks in the diner-style restaurant. ¡°Shhiv! You¡¯re in early. And you brought some arm candy.¡± Jace chuckled nervously, ¡°Hi. I¡¯m Flicker.¡± Shhiv gave him a sidelong glance of curiosity, but nodded, ¡°He¡¯s an Aspirant!¡± ¡°I can see that. Though that symbol is one I¡¯m not familiar with,¡± Bhev replied. Ollie whispered in Jace¡¯s ear, ¡°No Aspirants or Ascendants in here. Just keep your identity secret. You are doing good!¡± Shhiv led Jace over to a booth, and she sat opposite him as she slid into the seat, clasped her hands, and rested her arms on the table. ¡°This is my usual place for most of my meals. I don¡¯t really get out much. Outside of swimming, exercise in my apartment, work, and eating here. What about you? What¡¯s your routine like?¡± Jace ran his fingers through his hair, feeling the grime and muck. ¡°I don¡¯t have one,¡± he replied. He was still reeling from the abrupt nature of this sudden apparent romantic interest. Ollie laughed. ¡°Tell you what, I will go back to the Starlit Sea and leave you two alone. Don¡¯t forget, her favorite food is ghantos-pepper wings.¡± He vanished with a pop. Bhev came over with a small tablet held in one tentacled appendage. Jace reflexively moved away, and she frowned at him, ¡°I get it; new species to The Cosmic System. You¡¯re human, right?¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Yeah. Sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to offend-¡± ¡°Oh hon, don¡¯t worry about offending me.¡± She put all her tentacles on what Jace could compare to her hips, ¡°I deal with all types of folks. You¡¯ll get used to water-born creatures.¡± She looked over a Shhiv, ¡°Especially if you¡¯re with this one. She¡¯s feisty . Do you want the usual?¡± Shhiv nodded, ¡°Yes, please.¡± ¡°Do you have Stardust to pay for it? Or are you going to end up lifting boxes again to pay your tab?¡± Bhev asked. ¡°I¡¯m paying,¡± Jace said. ¡°But I don¡¯t know what to get. Do you have a menu?¡± ¡°Hon, everything my husband makes tastes good,¡± Bhev replied. ¡°You¡¯re an omnivore if my cosmopanel is right. I know just the thing.¡± She turned and walked behind the counter, speaking to someone through a window to a back kitchen. ¡°Oh, and an order of ghantos-pepper wings, please,¡± Jace said after the waitress. She looked back, gave him a slight nod ¨C perhaps of approval, he couldn¡¯t tell. Shhiv cleared her throat gently as Jace refocused on her, ¡°What made you choose Aspirant instead of Civilian?¡± Jace set his hands on the smooth, steel table. ¡°I want to bring my sister back.¡± ¡°Oh? Is she on a trip somewhere?¡± ¡°¡­She¡¯s dead.¡± Shhiv went red in the face, ¡°Oh! I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to-well, I mean-umm¡­¡± she trailed off. ¡°It¡¯s okay. She¡¯s been gone a few years now.¡± Jace pushed aside any sorrow for Chroma ¨C he¡¯d dealt with the grief as best he could. Thinking about it now wouldn¡¯t help anything or anyone. ¡°But you said bring her back? How?¡± Shhiv asked. ¡°Tier 10. If I can become a Tier 10 Ascendant before¡­Let¡¯s see, she died 2 years ago¡­I have 7 years and 10 months to get to that Tier.¡± Shhiv¡¯s eyes went wide. ¡°Really? Tier 10?! That¡¯s unheard of!¡± She was quite enthused and leaned forward with her not-lips pulled back into a smile. ¡°A good goal, though. Bringing back family. Is she your only family?¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Yeah. The only other person is my mother. But she abandoned us. I don¡¯t want anything to do with her.¡±The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Shhiv nodded and gently grabbed his left hand, squeezing it gently. ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡± ¡°What about you?¡± Jace asked. ¡°You mentioned a ¡®pod¡¯?¡± ¡°Oh yeah!¡± she squeezed his hand a little tighter. ¡°I have forty-eight brothers, twenty-three sisters, a bunch of cousins, and of course my mom and dad.¡± ¡°That¡¯s a big family,¡± Jace replied. ¡°How do you keep track of them all?¡± ¡°By scent! We have a distinct smell that our noses can pick up. You do, too. It¡¯s like¡­I hope that Universal Translation gets this right¡­lemons?¡± Weird. I don¡¯t smell any lemons. Jace shrugged, ¡°That¡¯s neat. Easy way to memorize who people are.¡± Bhev brought over two steaming platters of food. Set them down, and placed a small, thin panel on the table. Last, she placed a plate ¨C tiny in comparison to the platters ¨C of something akin to chicken wings. There were only two of them, and they seemed to be glowing with red and black hues. ¡°When you¡¯re done just tap your cosmopanel on the table to pay. Drinks are in the dispenser to your right, hon.¡± She walked away and back behind the counter. Shhiv clapped her hands excitedly before picking up a set of utensils. In front of her was a plethora of meat that smelled wonderful. Spiced meats, sweet sauce-covered meats. The smells alone were making Jace¡¯s mouth water. ¡°And you got my favorite too!¡± Jace grinned, ¡°My Wayfinder did some research. He said it was your favorite.¡± ¡°But they¡¯re so expensive!¡± ¡°My treat. You¡¯re worth every bit of Stardust for saving my life.¡± She blushed and reached for one of the wings, consuming the whole thing in one enormous bite ¨C bones and all. Jace reached for one, and he could feel the heat radiating from it as he moved it closer to his mouth. ¡°How spicy are these?¡± he asked. ¡°Not too bad.¡± Jace tentatively took a bite and almost instantly pulled it away from his mouth, panting at the sudden onset of heat. Shhiv laughed, and Jace would¡¯ve joined her if not for the searing agony on his tongue. He placed it on the plate, and through light coughs, said, ¡°It¡¯s all yours.¡± ¡°Oh, don¡¯t forget a drink,¡± Shhiv said through a mouthful of food. She grabbed a metal cylinder near the end of the table, flipped it over, and put it under a well-concealed spigot. ¡°Ice water.¡± There was a whoosh noise as the cup slowly filled to the brim. Jace followed her lead, ¡°Lemonade.¡± The cup became very cold and filled up with sweet liquid. His favorite beverage. The orphanage used to put in a lemonade mixture to filter out the heavy mineral flavor of the poor-quality water. More importantly, it calmed the riotous heat. Shhiv chuckled and swallowed a chunk of meat, ¡°That checks out.¡± The platter that was set in front of him was not as meat-heavy, but still smelled and looked delicious. Picking up his own utensils, he began taking small bites of each little bit of food, savoring the flavors of real cuisine and not synthetic, processed sludge he had eaten his whole life. ¡°What does?¡± Jace asked as he began consuming the meal. ¡°The drink smells just like the thing you smell like.¡± She grinned, ¡°May I try a sip?¡± Jace slid the cup over to her and she sniffed it before pouring some into her open maw. ¡°Mmm. I like that!¡± Jace cracked a smile, ¡°This is nice. I could get used to eating this type of food.¡± The two continued eating, focusing on their meal over any continuing conversation. To Jace, this was a feast fit for a corpo-elite. The richest of the rich. Everyone on Earth should get to eat like this. The thought of this type of food being available only to the upper crust left a festering kernel of hatred in Jace¡¯s stomach. An idea popped into his head. What if I went and secured one of those portals? Somehow got a crew together, took over the Earth-side of the portal, and worked on getting people here? He already knew two other Aspirants. Getting more on board for such a cause shouldn¡¯t be difficult. Ollie said that the Star Council people were really into making worlds better. I should see if I can seek them out. They finished their meal. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to pay. Normally Ollie-¡± ¡°Ollie?¡± ¡°My Wayfinder. Normally he deals with Stardust transactions.¡± He placed his left hand on the table and saw his Dark Matter symbol flare with a purple light. A screen appeared in his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Current Stardust: 2130.] [Requested Stardust: 20.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Oh, uhm. Confirm?¡± Jace said. The panel flared with the same starry-blue, and his Dark Matter symbol emitted a small stream of Stardust into the device. ¡°Huh. I don¡¯t need Ollie to use it.¡± He looked over at Shhiv as he set the panel down. Her eyes were wide and glued to his hand. ¡°That¡¯s how you use Stardust? That¡¯s amazing!¡± She raised her left hand and Jace could see the dull brown Civilian symbol. ¡°This thing takes a lot longer. We have to say a whole line of commands when making transactions. Or, we can use our cosmopanel.¡± Jace smirked, ¡°Well, I guess that¡¯s a benefit of being an Aspirant.¡± He frowned slightly, ¡°How much longer do you have?¡± ¡°Hmm?¡± ¡°Left, I mean. Civilians have 150 years max, right?¡± ¡°Oh¡­uhm¡­my species lives about 500 years? I¡¯m only twenty-five. I got lucky with the Cosmogenic Merging timing when I was 5 years old. I¡¯ve still got another 130 years before I either die or go back home.¡± She frowned, ¡°And I don¡¯t want to go back home.¡± ¡°Why not?¡± She crossed her arms over her chest, ¡°I¡­gah, this is embarrassing. I¡¯m technically a princess-¡± ¡°Really?¡± Jace asked. ¡°I¡¯ve heard of those during story time where I lived as a kid. Castles, magic, the whole deal?¡± ¡°No magic, but yes to the castles. But I¡¯m super far down the line of inheritance. I¡¯ve got hundreds of people ahead of me in the succession. I barely spent time with my parents; just a nanny for those first few years, and then I was sent to Khrox for my education when merging hit. I¡¯ve stayed here since.¡± Jace nodded and smiled, ¡°How much time do you have left before work?¡± Her face paled and she checked her cosmopanel, ¡°Crap! I¡¯ll have to skip my morning workout.¡± She stood up and Jace did as well. The squid-woman waved to them as they exited, ¡°Come visit anytime, hon!¡± Jace waved as he walked alongside Shhiv. She interlaced her arm through his again. ¡°I¡­uhm¡­why do you do that?¡± he asked. ¡°Not that I¡¯m upset or anything,¡± he quickly added. ¡°You can only travel with people in Khrox if you¡¯re touching the person ¨C if you¡¯re a Civilian.¡± She smiled, ¡°Plus, I get to look like I¡¯m with an Aspirant! How exciting is that?¡± Jace blushed, ¡°Ah¡­well¡­happy to help you as a status symbol.¡± She turned to him and gasped, covering her maw with her other hand, ¡°Oh, I didn¡¯t mean that you¡¯re just looking like you¡¯re with me. I mean-oh, okay, wow.¡± She took a deep breath and moved her hand away, smiling with that maw of straight yet sharp teeth. ¡°Well, if you can¡¯t tell, I¡¯m already interested. In you. Gosh, this is so weird to say out loud.¡± She took a deep breath and her smile softened. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll shut up now.¡± ¡°I¡­I don¡¯t know what to say.¡± Literally. This has never happened to me! What the hell do I do? ¡°Thank you?¡± ¡°I would love to take you out to my favorite swim spot when you have a chance and I¡¯m off work.¡± Jace nodded as reality warped and shifted. They were standing in front of a glass building with dark, silver reflective panels. There were rotating doors that people stepped into before vanishing into the air. ¡°I haven¡¯t been swimming in a few years. I¡¯d like that.¡± She grinned, ¡°I¡¯ll send your Wayfinder a request. Since you don¡¯t use a cosmopanel, I¡¯ll just interface through him to message you.¡± She let his arm go and her tail wrapped around his leg for just a moment before letting go. ¡°Have a good one! I¡¯ll see you around ¡®Flicker.¡¯¡± She giggled before vanishing into the building¡¯s interior. I need a place to sit and think. Jace began walking, visualizing somewhere with trees and benches. After a minute of walking, he arrived at an enormous park. Vibrant grasses of all lengths and colors were interspersed amongst each other, and benches were placed all around. A playground was nearby, and Jace smiled as he saw hundreds of children playing on the various bits of equipment. Chroma would love it here. Sitting down, he leaned forward and cupped his head in his hands. Okay. Think Jace. You¡¯ve got a woman who is obviously into you. But you¡¯ve never done this before. He felt an odd sensation of fluttering in his torso, and he finally noticed his heart beating rapidly. Okay. Breathing exercise. Calm down. He took deep breaths and closed his eyes. There was a pop and Ollie appeared wrapped around his neck in his silvery-outline form. ¡°So, how did it go?¡± ¡°I¡­think it went well?¡± Jace replied. ¡°I honestly don¡¯t know.¡± ¡°Well, tell me what happened.¡± Jace did so, and Ollie cracked a smile and chuckled with his deep voice as the Aspirant finished. ¡°You did well for a first date. I already have a message and contact request from Shhiv. Should I add her?¡± ¡°What does that do for me?¡± ¡°It means you can contact her through The Cosmic System without using me as your interface. You can just think about contacting her, and then can send a message. Text and pictures only, though. Video feeds are too intensive given the number of users.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Can we also add Greg?¡± ¡°Sure. I will send a request to his Wayfinder, Darrin.¡± ¡°And Quinn. And Xera.¡± ¡°Will do!¡± Jace looked around the park once more. ¡°Okay. Back to the apartment for a bit of sleep. Then¡­I guess we wait for Xera¡¯s instructions.¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Chapter 33 – Meeting the big man and Ollie’s surprise
Jace got to his new home and found to his immense satisfaction and joy that the three rooms were decorated and furnished. The main room was dominated by a large, circular table with plenty of cushioned chairs ¨C perfect for hosting guests. There were numerous shelves with all manner of board games lining one wall, and the whole room was decorated like a wintery forest ¨C including holographic snow falling from above before dissipating at just above eye level. He had never had games or entertainment, but the few shoddy, thrown-together board games that the orphanage did have were his only source of joy in those dim times. As he walked through the space, he traced his fingers along the different titles and textures. These¡­they¡¯re mine. He cracked a smile and chuckled. There are so many types! He had no clue how they were sorted, but he had an urge to pull one of the boxes out, set it on the table, and begin to read the rulebook. Ollie cleared his throat, ¡°Ahem¡­you need some rest.¡± ¡°Right,¡± Jace replied as he felt the pull of sleep. Leaving the board game on the table, the pieces tumbling out of the cardboard box, he followed his Wayfinder. Walking to the bedroom, Jace was absolutely floored at the nature of the space. It looked the exact same as the Starlit Sea where he went to choose his Cosmic Power and Class. Shifting starlight in an infinite ocean, with just a slight metallic sheen to mark the walls. Flopping onto the black bed, he looked up into the swirling cosmos with a deep feeling of satisfaction mixed with anxiety. This was his place. His home. As long as he kept working for Xera ¨C which he planned on doing. But he also had the lingering flutter in his chest from visiting Shhiv. That sense of anxiety and trepidation. Something he had not felt before. Living on the streets didn¡¯t give one much time to focus on emotions ¨C you just pushed them aside and got along with living. But now? He wasn¡¯t sure how to deal with these feelings. Just try to get some sleep, he thought as he closed his eyes.
Quinn stood in front of the Star Council¡¯s main chamber. Okay. You¡¯ve got this. Just summoned to a meeting with the leader of the faction. No sweat. Her hands were shaking, and she felt her dry mouth with distinct displeasure. The spider-lady Casey walked over on her numerous legs. ¡°Nervous?¡± ¡°A little,¡± Quinn replied as her Wayfinder sat on her shoulder. ¡°Valerie said he sounded angry.¡± ¡°He is a sweetheart. If he is acting mean, it¡¯s because he¡¯s trying to teach you a lesson.¡± Casey grinned, ¡°He¡¯s called Star Father for a reason. He treats every Ascendant or Signer for our faction as a child. The oldest and most powerful of the Star Council. And he is one of the strongest Ascendants of all. Just be respectful, and if he asks you to apologize ¨C do it.¡± She frowned. ¡°He will treat you like a child ¨C including punishment ¨C if you don¡¯t act properly.¡± Quinn nodded and felt her mouth get even drier than before as the anxiety truly took hold. It felt like she was about to be reamed over the coals, like what she experienced when she once ran an operation for an ex-corpo. That man had shouted at and berated her at every opportunity. Just be contrite, she thought. The doors opened and she gulped. Casey put a hand on her shoulder, ¡°Good luck.¡± Quinn walked through and entered the room. It was an office space that looked like an upscale version of a corpo office. The walls were painted a warm, orange tone that was offset pleasingly by the black floor. Most prominent of all was a desk made of a silvery metal; covered with panels, screens, and papers. A humanoid man sat behind the desk in a luxurious, cushioned chair. His skin was a pure, shimmering gold color. His eyes were dark pools as black as space, with a shimmering sparkle of the stars within. He had a crop of short, silver hair and a beard that was well-kempt. And he was immaculately dressed in a dark, black outfit akin to a power suit. Looking up, he smiled softly. ¡°Good to finally meet you, Quinn. Please, take a seat.¡± A chair of bright, burnished orange light appeared in front of Quinn. She sat on the edge of the seat. ¡°You asked for me?¡± Star Father nodded and leaned back in the chair. He pointed to a sheet of paper, ¡°Read that.¡± Quinn grabbed the sheet of paper and began reading it. This is a list of all the transactions I¡¯ve done. ¡°Why are you giving such a hefty discount to this Flicker fellow?¡± Quinn put the paper down. ¡°His name is Jace Seren. His Wayfinder is named Oliver, but Jace calls him Ollie. He has a weird symbol on his han-¡± The man held up his hand and Quinn stopped talking. ¡°I know all of that. Why are you giving him a discount?¡± Quinn let out a sigh as the ball of anxiety continued to fester in her torso. Taking a sip from the canteen on her hip, she nodded curtly and looked right into those black, starry pools. ¡°I betrayed a code. He forgave me in exchange for the 25% discount on products and services, and 25% more from what he sells to me.¡± Star Father nodded sagely with a frown on his face. ¡°I can understand wanting to do the right thing. However, this level of hemorrhaging of our Stardust reserves is something I cannot let continue. Did you sign a Broker contract with him?¡± ¡°No. But if I did, it would only last 24 hours.¡± ¡°Good. Restrict him to one visit per month. That shouldn¡¯t impact our operations too severely, and I don¡¯t want you to have a bad reputation.¡± He leaned forward and put his forearms on the desk. ¡°You are one of our few merchant-style Class Signers. That is one of the only reasons I am showing such lenience.¡± He smiled, ¡°Inadvertently, you¡¯ve done something really positive for our faction¡¯s interests on Earth.¡± Quinn felt curiosity rouse and replace the ball of anxiety, ¡°How?¡± ¡°This Jace ¨C Flicker ¨C you learned his Cosmic Power source, yes?¡± ¡°Mhmm. Dark Matter. His Class and any more information are restricted by someone named X.¡± Star Father stood up and walked around the desk, leaning on it as he crossed his arms. ¡°X is the person behind The Cosmic System. Some type of tech support who lives in a building here in Khrox that is completely impossible to penetrate.¡± He held up his finger, ¡°Except by one person. Signers for a hidden faction ¨C Dark Between Stars ¨C which almost exclusively has had Dark Matter users throughout history.¡± ¡°You think that Jace is part of that faction?¡± Star Father nodded and put his hands back on the desk. ¡°Precisely. I saw the video you dug up in researching for that contract. Someone who pulled off that type of feat and showed that level of resilience should have been recruited rather quickly ¨C but someone with admin level access of The Cosmic System prevented anyone from reaching out.¡± He frowned and his voice became an upset, guttural growl that filled Quinn with fear. The anger behind the stern words shook her to her core. ¡°I wanted to get him as a Signer. As far as I know, every faction leader tried to reach out ¨C but X blocked it all. Even Quests we submitted to try and give him easy rewards to bribe him to our cause were blocked.¡± ¡°X runs Dark Between Stars, and prevented other factions from recruiting Jace as a Signer because they wanted him?¡± Quinn clarified. ¡°Correct. Good to know you can keep up with my blathering.¡± Quinn frowned, ¡°How does this benefit the Star Council¡¯s interests on Earth?¡± Star Father went back around the desk and took his seat once more, and his tone lightened. ¡°We are entering a temporary alliance with the Planetary Independence Pact and Dark Between Stars. The Planetary Independence Pact is going to be providing cover for our Earth-based operations. Leviticus Smith is already working one angle on Earth: this United States government.¡± ¡°But there¡¯s other governments, and the megacorps. Thos-¡± Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. ¡°I¡¯ve got other Ascendants working on other governments on that world. The Star Council is ¡®boots on the ground¡¯, to use a military turn of phrase. And our allies for this endeavor are going to try and keep Nebula Alliance and Black Hole Conclave members out of the whole affair. Well, any new Aspirants and Ascendants they send in.¡± He pointed at Quinn, ¡°I want you, your bodyguard, and this ¡®unspecified agent¡¯ from Dark Between Stars ¨C this Jace fellow in all probability ¨C to play another angle. Taking down those mega corporations.¡± ¡°You want us to take down General Logistics?¡± ¡°Not just one. All of them. This is a monumental task, and I can¡¯t risk you dying on that world. So, we need to get you to Tier 3 so that you won¡¯t be killed by a stray bullet. To that end, I¡¯m going to restrict your merchant duties for a while. You and this Greg ¨C handy bodyguard, by the way ¨C will be focusing on harvesting products from various Tier 1 worlds that can be sold to other vendors. Get enough Stardust to hit Tier 3.¡± Quinn nodded and stood up, ¡°If that¡¯s what you want.¡± ¡°Oh, one more thing.¡± ¡°Yes?¡± ¡°Repair this rift between you and Jace. If he is Dark Between Stars like I think he is, we want him on our side. If you can manipulate him with emotions ¨C do so. That unique power needs to be under our control.¡± He smiled, stood up, and came around the desk once more, and ruffled her hair. ¡°Alright, off you go. Be a good kid and shut the door behind you, please.¡± Quinn nodded curtly, stood up, and left the room. As soon as the doors shut behind her, she began hyperventilating. How the hell am I going to get on his good side?
¡°Hey, you have received a message,¡± Darrin said as he crawled around Greg¡¯s shoulders. ¡°From who?¡± ¡°A Wayfinder named Oliver. The river otter? The one for that Jace guy.¡± Greg nodded and took a sip of the ice-cold beer in the bar he stumbled upon in The Eternal City, ¡°What¡¯s it say?¡± ¡°I will show you.¡± A screen appeared at the edge of Greg¡¯s vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Hi! This is Oliver. I am Jace¡¯s Wayfinder. Please, in the future, only use his actual name if you are interacting with him in private. In public spaces or with untrustworthy individuals, use his nickname in The Cosmic System ¨C Flicker.] [He has new accommodations and is currently resting. I figured that I would try and surprise him with a small get together, a housewarming party of sorts. Would you be so kind as to come and, as humans on Earth would put it, ¡®hang out¡¯?] [Bring a guest if you desire. Details will be attached.] <<<<<>>>>> A housewarming party? Greg chuckled and that chuckled turned into a deep laugh, drawing the gaze of a few other patrons. ¡°Tell him I¡¯ll accept and bring Missy.¡± That guy deserves every bit of it. Greg hadn¡¯t lived on the streets himself, but he knew plenty of street folk. Having a place to live was a huge life improvement and a major milestone in, as their type put it, ¡®crawling from the gutter¡¯. An achievement worthy of celebrating. He drained the last of his beer, paid off his tab, and walked through Khrox until the world warped around him and he got to Missy¡¯s place. ¡°Hey hon,¡± he shouted out as he entered the room. ¡°Want to go to a small get together?¡±
A get together? Quinn grinned as she read the message. This is my chance to get in his good graces. She quickly fired off a response message. I should bring something as a housewarming present. Getting on Jace¡¯s good side was vital now. Not only did he have a unique Cosmic Power that no one else had access to, but he was the only Signer for Dark Between Stars¡­from what she could gather with her System access. The meeting with Star Father told her enough about the seriousness of the situation. Getting in this X¡¯s good graces would be imperative to her future success and that of the faction she became a Signer for. She could not screw this up.
Shhiv ran her fingers through her hair and floated in her cube of water. Done. Finally. She made her way to the edge of the cube and exited ¨C instantly drying ¨C as she left the workspace, went to the break room, and pulled out her cosmopanel. A message? She opened it. A Wayfinder? Oliver? Oh! It must be Ollie! She was shaking with excitement. I wasn¡¯t expecting Jace to reply this fast! Reading through the message just filled her with even more excitement. She¡¯d been trying for years to make connections with Aspirants. Whether just as friends or as a close confidant¡­or maybe something more, which is what she really wanted. But every one of them just forgot about her as soon as they passed their Aspirant Trial. Moving on and forgetting the lowly Civilian that helped them out on their first steps. He must have really liked that date earlier. She immediately responded that she would attend the small get-together. What should I wear? What should I bring? Probably food. Intoxicants, maybe? I¡¯ll have to call in favors since payday is so far off. Definitely intoxicants if I want to get together with him intimately. This was her chance. To make a connection. To finally snag an Aspirant. Someone she could form a bond with. Civilian life was good ¨C but could be lonely at times. Plus, with an Aspirant with her, she could visit her home world without the threat of assassination. But that wasn¡¯t the main reason. She wanted, craved to be partnered with someone with immense power. Not for her own sake, but because she idolized strength. It was one of the main reasons why she worked out so much. It has to be perfect! This might be my only chance.
Xera tapped her console. ¡°What is it now, Ollie?¡± The spectral river otter was swimming with more enthusiasm and vibrancy than she¡¯d ever seen before. ¡°I am putting together a housewarming party for Jace. Did you want to come?¡± Xera arched an eyebrow, ¡°Why would I do that?¡± ¡°Because¡­he is your Signer? He has never had a home that was his before. I am inviting everyone I can think of who he has had a positive interaction with. I think that having you there would be pleasant. It is not like you have not left that citadel before.¡± I suppose it couldn¡¯t hurt anything. Josie can hold down the fort and recall me if anything dangerous happens. Xera had a means to transport herself anywhere in The Cosmic Corridor or The Eternal City instantaneously, and there was a contingent protocol in place to recall her if any danger presented itself. Ensuring that he feels like I care about him would be an ideal way to try and keep him within my faction. ¡°Didn¡¯t he have a mother that abandoned him?¡± she asked. ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie replied. ¡°Very well. I will attend. Send me the guest list, who has responded in the affirmative, and any other pertinent information.¡± ¡°Yes ma¡¯am!¡± Ollie vanished from the screen¡¯s view and into the Starlit Sea. Xera looked at Josie. The shapeless blob that floated in the air had a pair of eyes that were squinting at her. ¡°Don¡¯t look at me like that,¡± Xera said. ¡°You are going to damage him if you do what I think you plan on doing,¡± Josie replied. Xera waved away the concern, ¡°Everyone needs a maternal figure in their life. His mother abandoned him, yes? Well, he is sort of like my child, in a way. I need to take care of him for my own interests.¡± She stood up and went to her bedroom and the enormous closet with dozens of outfits for all manner of espionage endeavors ¨C to blend into practically any location. It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve done any type of covert work. I have to ensure that he remains under my control. Manipulation if necessary. I can¡¯t lose another Signer. Chapter 34 – Housewarming and bonding
Jace woke up to the calming sight of starlight above him. A deep, black abyss glittering with luminous beacons and streaks of nebula. As he woke, the room seemed to come to life as well ¨C the space scene exploding with streaking meteors, the formation of galaxies, and the arcs of the cosmos weaving in a spectacular display. Just lying there and taking it all in was breathtaking. He took a deep breath and felt the comforting embrace of the bed around him. My own bed. He cracked a smile and could not help but laugh aloud. Ollie popped into place above him. ¡°Hey sleepy. How was it?¡± ¡°Great,¡± Jace replied as he stifled a yawn. ¡°How long was I out?¡± Ollie swam around excitedly. Jace had noticed that when Ollie was happy or enthusiastic, he was quite mobile, versus when he was sad or upset when he would not move as much. ¡°Just a few hours. Oh, and good news. You are going to have a party!¡± Jace jolted up in bed, ¡°What?¡± ¡°A party! I have invited a bunch of people.¡± ¡°Who?¡± Jace asked as he twisted to get out of bed. ¡°Greg and Missy, Shhiv, Xera, and Quinn. Plus, their Wayfinders.¡± Xera¡¯s coming? Huh. ¡°Should I use Xera¡¯s name while she¡¯s here?¡± ¡°Nope! Use Sera instead.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°I should probably get ready then.¡± ¡°Yup! You have about an hour.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t have any other clothes,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°You look fine. Go use the hygiene-station and the dental apparatus-¡± ¡°The what-now?¡± Ollie led Jace to the restroom. The nautical themes put a smile on Jace¡¯s face; reminding him of his few times on the boat where he¡¯d meet Greg for courier gigs. Ollie pointed at a device that looked like a box with a small pad for a chin. ¡°This will painlessly fix your teeth, returning them to a pristine status.¡± Jace put his face into the device and felt a weird, tingling sensation along his jaw, around his mouth, and face. There was a sensation of heat ¨C a dull, creeping heat like he was slowly moving his hand towards a garbage-can fire. There was a ding noise that echoed around him, and he removed his head. The pain he had grown used to in his mouth was gone and he felt like he didn¡¯t have to tense his jaw. My whole life my mouth has hurt. I didn¡¯t know you could live without mouth pain. He chuckled at the lack of persistent pain. I need to bring this back to Earth and let everyone use it. As he looked in the mirror, the realization that he had not seen his reflection like this in six years washed over him. In the windows of shops? Sure. But not an actual mirror with good lighting like this. His face was not as thin and drawn as it was all those years ago, instead filled out. The jawline was the same though; angular and sharp. Most noticeable were his eyes ¨C staring into them, he saw the faint glimmer of starlight inside the black space. His teeth were pristine ¨C no longer the jagged, malformed set he had grown up with. Peering closer, his skin was much healthier and did not have the pallid, thick, dry slough of malnutrition. His hair was much longer than he was used to, and it dangled down the sides of his head. ¡°What¡¯s the hygiene station?¡± Jace asked. Ollie pointed to the vertical, black glass lined box at the far end of the bathroom, ¡°That. Strip down, go inside, and push the button.¡± Jace nodded and did as he was told. Before stepping in, he looked at the full-length mirror and really took in his new body. From the shoulders and thighs down ¨C he was magitech and magic. The slight blue and black prosthetic arms were close in tone, only offset by the black geometric versus gold arcane lines tracing a path throughout. The deep, crimson legs with the black geometric pattern was the most prominent, and Jace just took in the sight of his half-artificial self. Flexing what real muscles he did have, he was ecstatic. No longer a scrawny, runner¡¯s body ¨C he had muscles. Low body fat. That serum is wild, he thought as he ran a hand over his improved body. This is amazing. I¡¯m so fit! And it gave me a bigger co- Ollie coughed slightly, drawing Jace¡¯s attention. ¡°Get in the pod. You have guests coming.¡± Jace did so, closed the glass door, and pressed the button. A wave of energy coursed over and through him¡­and he felt empty. Wait, did it jus- ¡°You might feel an odd sensation! The pod takes waste products out of you at the same time it cleans you. Oh, there is a panel in there if you want to change your hair style!¡± Ollie was, thankfully, staying outside and giving Jace some privacy. Jace ignored the unsettling fact that certain biological functions were just dealt with automatically by some unknown technology ¨C or magic for all he knew ¨C and he interfaced with the panel. Scrolling through the styles by hair length, he found one that he liked. Tapping the ¡®confirm¡¯ button, he felt a slight heat around his temples, and the smell of singed hair hit his nostrils. Reaching up, he felt the shorter hair, and it was silky smooth. That¡¯s awesome. Exiting the room, Ollie gave him a little thumbs-up. ¡°Much better! And to think you still made a good impression with Shhiv despite the disheveled mess.¡± Jace froze as he was midway through dressing. Oh. And I smiled a lot. Those teeth were in such bad shape. He chuckled. I wonder what she¡¯ll think now? He finished dressing and left the bathroom. ¡°What is the plan?¡± he asked. Ollie floated over the table, ¡°I pulled 10 Stardust out of your reserve ¨C you have 2100 left ¨C to get something called a ¡®Nacho Bar¡¯. It should be here-¡± There was a beep from the panel next to the main door. ¡°Right about now.¡± Jace went to the door and opened it. A metal cube on wheels pushed past him and into the room. Multiple robotic arms began pulling all manner of foodstuffs out of the central compartment and placed them on the table. ¡°What are nachos?¡± Jace asked. ¡°They are chips, with cheese and toppings,¡± Ollie replied with a slight frown. ¡°I thought this was a common food on Earth you would find familiar.¡± ¡°No, nutrisludge for most of my life¡­¡± Jace whispered as he sighed. He felt some enthusiasm and tried to let that pour into his voice, but it was still tinged with the memories that for most of his life, he had been akin to human cattle that had escaped the factory. ¡°But it looks and smells great.¡± Ollie floated in front of him, ¡°I forgot that you only had that nutrisludge and garbage on Earth. I am sorry if I offended you.¡± Jace smiled, ¡°No. It¡¯s fine¡­thanks. Really. I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll taste great.¡± He took a deep breath as the robot rolled out of the apartment. Jace went to the door to close it but stopped as he heard the elevator at the far end ding. The doors split open, and Jace grinned as he saw Greg arm-in-arm with a gorgeous, plump woman with olive skin and wavy, brown hair. ¡°Greg!¡± he waved. His buddy waved back as they came up the hallway. ¡°Jace. Good to see you.¡± He let his woman¡¯s hand go and embraced Jace in a bear hug ¨C still taller than and much broader than Jace ¨C but not as strong. He let go and glanced down, ¡°New arm?¡± Jace nodded. The spider Wayfinder, Darrin, crawled into view on Greg¡¯s shoulder and waved his small, spidery limbs. ¡°Want to try the Earth gambling game, Poker?¡± Ollie asked the spider. ¡°Sure. Just us two is low stakes, though,¡± Darrin replied. ¡°We have more coming. Come on, I have it set up.¡± Ollie disappeared with a pop, as did Greg''s Wayfinder. Jace chuckled and gestured to the door, ¡°Welcome to my home.¡± The way those words felt coming off his tongue was incredible. ¡°My home,¡± he whispered once more, savoring the sentence. He couldn¡¯t hold back his grin. Greg gestured to his female companion, ¡°This is Missy, my girlfri-¡± ¡°Fianc¨¦,¡± she interrupted, smiling and holding out her hand for a shake. When Jace reached out with his prosthetic arm, she looked on, curiously, and shook it gently. ¡°Interesting prosthetics. I¡¯ve not seen that type before.¡± ¡°Magitech,¡± Jace said as he gestured to the blue arm and red legs. ¡°And this one is magic,¡± he said, pointing to the black one. ¡°Intriguing,¡± she said with a faint smile. ¡°You¡¯ll have to tell me more. I worked at Cybronics Research back on Earth, so this type of stuff is¡­just amazing.¡± Greg looked slightly upset, ¡°I thought we were going to reveal the fianc¨¦ thing when the other guests were here. Now we have to repeat it for everyone.¡± ¡°Holy shit!¡± Jace said as it hit him. ¡°You¡¯re going to be married?!¡± Greg grinned and kissed Missy, ¡°Hell yeah.¡± The elevator ¡®dinged¡¯ again and Jace narrowed his eyes as he saw Quinn. Why¡¯d you invite her? Jace thought. Greg and Missy stepped inside, and Jace kept the door open for Quinn who gave him a slight¡­smile? ¡°Hi, Jace. Sorry about¡­well¡­you know¡­¡± she blushed as her cybernetic eyes whirred in her head. ¡°I brought you a housewarming present!¡± she snapped her fingers, and her Wayfinder appeared with a pop before flying over to Jace¡¯s left arm. Reflexively, he pulled it away. ¡°What is it?¡± Valerie, the bird, replied. ¡°It is a Boon. I have to touch your Cosmic Power symbol.¡± She chirped happily. Ollie appeared with a pop. ¡°Ah, you are here. Here, you can hand the gift to me.¡± Ollie held out his paw. Valerie looked back at Quinn, and the woman nodded. The bird flew up and tapped Ollie¡¯s paw with her beak. <<<<<>>>>> [Gift Received: Epic (Skill Evolution) Boon.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Wow, thank you,¡± Jace said ¨C stunned that she would give him something so valuable. ¡°You are welcome¡­may I come in?¡± Quinn asked sheepishly. Jace nodded and gestured inside. The two Wayfinders vanished with a pop once more. Jace was just about to follow Quinn when the elevator dinged again. He heard conversation as the doors opened and saw Shhiv talking to Xera. The two paused their conversation, and Shhiv practically ran over to stand in front of Jace. She was wearing a very form-hugging dress that left very little to the imagination and was quite flattering. She was quite well-endowed, and this new outfit showed that off in spades. ¡°Hi! Oh, I¡¯m so excited you invited me! I brought something great!¡± she reached into a bag and produced a bottle of some type of clear liquid, ¡°It¡¯s called alcohol, from your world! My cosmopanel said that humans drink it. I got a lot of types! There¡¯s this green one called absinthe that I was told tastes like candy!¡± Jace grinned, ¡°So happy to have you. Come on in, make yourself comfortable.¡± ¡°Oh? Okay. Mind if I check out your place? I love seeing how places are decorated.¡± Jace nodded, and Shhiv went inside. Xera walked forward and nodded at him. She was slightly shorter than him, but much slimmer. Her purple, three-iris eyes all focused in on him, and her two pairs of arms were clasped ¨C one set behind her back, the other in front of her bosom. She adjusted a pair of glasses. ¡°You may call me Sera in this company ¨C they won¡¯t be able to track my identity.¡± ¡°I¡­ I wasn¡¯t expecting you to come here. When Ollie told me-¡± Jace hesitated for a brief instant before reaching forward and hugging her. He felt her tense slightly, but he didn¡¯t care. ¡°Thank you¡­for everything.¡± The tension left her and she nodded, returning the hug with a pair of her arms, ¡°My pleasure. Now, if you would please ¨C you are squishing my body with your grip.¡± ¡°Oh, crap! Sorry.¡± Jace immediately pulled back and chuckled as he ran his fingers through his hair, ¡°I forget how strong I am now. And with the prosthetics-¡± She looked at his black and gold arm, ¡°Ah, he did give you the Anathema as I requested. Excellent.¡± She stared into his eyes, and it felt like she was dissecting him as if he was a specimen on an exam table. ¡°The next world I will send you to is Tier 2, with numerous Complexes. A high-magic world. That arm will be invaluable in keeping you safe from magical assault, and with managing magical traps and defenses.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Just a business visit, then?¡± She smiled and shook her head, ¡°No. I¡¯m here to celebrate your new home.¡± She raised her hand, and Jace saw a wrist-panel like what Quinn had ¨C but Xera¡¯s was far more advanced looking. It hugged her skin more tightly, and when she raised it, a holographic screen expanded in front of her. ¡°I am transferring this residence to you ¨C permanently. This whole building, actually. So, you may invite others to stay with you ¨C companions, if you will. The layout will shift accordingly as you desire. Just use the panel in the room to move the chambers.¡± Jace saw the Cosmic Power symbol on his hand glow brightly before fading to a dull, purple thrum. He felt a wave of emotion rush through him. Something he hadn¡¯t felt since he was six, sitting on the bed with his exhausted mother as she ran her fingers through his hair. The last time he had felt any type of affection from someone he trusted. Well, save for Chroma - but that was a sibling''s love. This was...almost motherly, in a way. ¡°I¡­I¡­¡± he felt tears welling up and went to wipe them away, lost for words. Xera reached up and wiped them away for him, smiling softly. Warmly. ¡°You deserve so much, Jace. You have had a difficult life. It will be a hard road ahead ¨C I warned you of that before you became my Signer¡­But I promise you ¨C I won¡¯t abandon you. You won¡¯t go through that again¡­I promise¡­I¡¯ll help you get to Tier 10 to bring your sister back. You have my word. I¡¯ll do my best to keep you safe.¡±This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Jace couldn¡¯t hold back the emotions and let them pour out. A type of compassion he had never known he was missing, that he was craving, that he wanted so badly washed over him. Someone protecting him for once. Someone watching out for him. Who cared for him not because of what he was doing but because of who he was. It was genuine. She hugged him tightly. ¡°I¡¯m here for you now.¡± This drew attention from inside as Greg, Missy, Quinn, and Shhiv stopped their conversation and stared at the display for a few uncomfortable moments before shutting the door, letting the two have their moment. Xera separated from him after a minute, reached out, and cupped his face, ¡°Come on, you have guests and a party to host. This is a celebration of your new home. Your new life.¡± Jace nodded and clasped her hand for a moment, ¡°¡­Thank you¡­Xe- Sera.¡±
The housewarming party was an interesting affair. Shhiv had not been to one before, so she wasn¡¯t quite sure what to expect. It started off a little bit awkwardly ¨C but thankfully the plump human Missy seemed to be a natural at courting conversation, and as the group indulged in the delicious nacho bar ¨C which Shhiv had not experienced before and found quite delicious ¨C they broke out the beverages that Shhiv had brought. The ¡®liquor¡¯ as it was called was intriguing. Shhiv¡¯s species did not have alcohol on her home world, and she had experienced such an intoxicant on very few occasions. It brought a pleasant haze, and it seemed everyone ¨C except for Sera, the nice-if-distant woman from the elevator ¨C was getting ¡®drunk¡¯ as Jace called it. She seemed unaffected by the drink. Shhiv found this cleaned up version of the man even more enticing and alluring. He was all smiles ¨C the bright, white teeth were quite prized amongst her species as tooth health was a sign of prosperity ¨C and he laughed alongside Greg as they shared stories about harrowing adventures from their pre-Aspirant days. Something called a ¡®gig¡¯ which would involve Jace running some object to a location on a timer. Sort of like a race, she thought through the alcoholic buzz. Greg shared what sounded like war stories. Fighting people, using something called firearms ¨C Shhiv had to look those up on her cosmopanel ¨C and his partner Missy chided him for the risky behavior. Shhiv kept an eye on the other two women ¨C Quinn and Sera. Quinn was also a human, and she was politely engaging in the conversation, blushing and giggling at Jace¡¯s words. She¡¯s up to something, Shhiv¡¯s intuition told her. I think she¡¯s into him. Shhiv instantly disliked the woman acting too politely. Crowding in on the man that she wanted to snare with her affections. She¡¯s got an ulterior motive. Sera was different. Jace seemed to show her some deference, but at one point in the evening she patted him softly on the shoulder and even ran her hand up to the top of his head, scratching it slightly. She saw the softness and look of fond recollection dash across Jace¡¯s face for an instant. Is she also into him? No. It¡¯s more¡­maternal. Given that display in the hallway- no, it can¡¯t be his mother. She¡¯s a completely different species! The woman was an enigma that Shhiv couldn¡¯t figure out. But she¡¯s not romantic competition, I know that much. Just turn on the charm even more. I¡¯ve got this. As the food was finished off and the drinks kept flowing, Sera tapped the panel on top of the table, and it cleared from the refuse and debris in a brief flash of dull, grey light. ¡°Games?¡± she asked, looking at the wall of various titles. As the games were brought out, Shhiv realized that these women were competing for Jace¡¯s affection. This Quinn¡­Shhiv wasn¡¯t sure what the motive was; but it was definitely inclined towards getting on Jace¡¯s good side. As for Sera, it seemed like she was just filling a parental, caring role. Based on the information she had gathered earlier, that Jace was responsible for his younger sister, Shhiv assumed that the mother was completely out of the picture. Well, Jace had told her as much about the abandonment. She is trying to fill that gap to¡­possibly manipulate him? She gave him the whole building, so she has some pull. But¡­she¡¯s not romantically interested; that much is clear. Not a threat to my plans. Focus on the goal. Jace nodded and stood up, ¡°Hmm¡­how about this one?¡± He pulled down a game depicting stacked blocks, opened it, and handed the contents to Greg and Missy. Jace began reading the instructions, and everyone leaned in, listening to the details. Ok. You can win this. Show him you¡¯re better than these other women. Shhiv was supremely confident in her body control ¨C despite her inebriated state. Glancing at Sera, she felt a twinge of fear as the woman¡¯s multiple pupils made eye contact. The black-skinned woman smiled, ¡°I will opt out of this one, since I would be playing with an unfair advantage. Inebriation and drug-induced states are impossible for my physiology.¡± The rest of them played the game, and in the end, it was Shhiv versus Jace. His fingers moved with mechanical precision ¨C to be expected from the prosthetics ¨C and Shhiv ultimately lost. But I beat her! She thought triumphantly as she looked at Quinn. This same process played out over the hours into the night. Alcohol flowed, games were played, and in all except the strategy games ¨C the finalists were Shhiv and Jace. The strategy ones ended with Quinn facing off against Sera. The ones that relied on trivia from Earth; well, Shhiv lost those. Greg and Missy were the best at those, as they had consumed Earth¡¯s media. Quinn tried to keep up, but Missy was a fountain of knowledge in Earth¡¯s various eras. That game was particularly unfair in Shhiv¡¯s eyes. But, she did not complain. Greg and Missy excused themselves and said their goodbyes as the night grew late leaving Jace, Sera, Quinn, and Shhiv playing a card game focused on making humorous statements. Something called ¡®Cards against Creation.¡¯ I have to outlast them, Shhiv thought as she eyed her two opponents. Quinn was showing signs of tiredness, and the holographic, falling snow above lent an even more calming atmosphere that made sleep threaten to take her. Quinn¡¯s eyelids fluttered shut several times before she jolted awake once more. Come on. Just give up and go home! Eventually, her wish was granted, as Quinn stood up and smiled softly, ¡°Thanks for the party, Jace. Sera¡­Shhiv¡­good to meet you both.¡± Jace stood up and gave her a gentle handshake, ¡°Thanks for coming. I¡¯m not going to abuse that discount, by the way. Maybe just a few times a month.¡± ¡°Once a month,¡± she countered, her demeanor still jovial but with an undercurrent of seriousness. ¡°Deal,¡± Jace replied. He made some hand gesture to her that Shhiv didn¡¯t understand, and Quinn returned another. The woman departed, and Jace returned to the table with Sera and Shhiv. ¡°I¡¯m starting to get tired. I may have to call it quits,¡± he said. Sera stood up and nodded, ¡°Of course.¡± She gave him a soft hug, all four of her arms wrapping around him. ¡°Remember,¡± she whispered ¨C so quietly that Shhiv barely picked up on it. ¡°I¡¯ll never abandon you.¡± Jace nodded and the black-skinned woman left. Leaving Shhiv and Jace. Perfect! Shhiv thought as she unintentionally licked her teeth. She began cleaning up the board game. ¡°This has been a lot of fun!¡± she said with her biggest smile. She tried to keep her tail from swinging back and forth ¨C a sign of excitement in her species ¨C but it was hard to do. Damnit, tail! Stop it! ¡°Yeah. It was fun¡­I¡¯ve not had real friends before. This¡­was nice.¡± He smirked and chuckled, ¡°I¡¯ve never had my own place, either.¡± Lowering his gaze, he raised an inquisitive eyebrow, ¡°I¡¯ve also never realized how good I was at skill-based games. You¡¯re pretty damned good yourself, you know that?¡± Shhiv finished boxing up the game and nodded, lifting her arm and flexing her muscles. ¡°That¡¯s what happens when you work out every day. Body control. Extremely precise control.¡± She lowered her arm, leaned forward with her elbows on the table, and couched her chin with her fingers. ¡°That¡¯s neat,¡± Jace commented. He leaned forward and mimicked her hand and arm movement. He glanced at the nearby bottles that were mostly empty, ¡°Thank you for the drinks. They really livened up the atmosphere.¡± He grabbed the green-colored bottle and drained the last few drops, grimaced, and put it down. ¡°Tastes good but bitter at the same time.¡± She got up and walked around the table, trailing her hand along the edge, swishing her tail gently behind her. Just keep up the allure. She stood next to him and gently held his hand. ¡°You are more than welcome. I¡¯m so happy that you invited me over.¡± She traced along the outline of her torso with a finger ¨C a sensual display that she had discerned from her research into humans as being a ¡®turn-on¡¯. Jace¡¯s face went flush, ¡°I¡­uhm¡­thanks, I¡­¡± Ease him into it. Shhiv ran her fingers through his hair as he had spotted the Sera woman doing in the hallway earlier. She sensed an immediate shift in the tension as he relaxed. Ah. Fuck it. She leaned down and pulled him by the back of the head into a passionate kiss. Not having lips meant that she couldn¡¯t follow the cosmopanel-human guide exactly, but she approximated the gesture as best she could given her physiology. He fumbled a bit as he returned the passionate gesture. Shhiv pulled him up and slowly walked him to the bedroom, still wrapped in that enrapturing bliss of physical contact with lust laced behind it. He was larger and stronger ¨C she could feel that difference. But he was letting her take the lead. His prosthetics were oddly warm and felt like they were part of him; not cold, unfeeling metal as she anticipated ¨C and she tried to make sure her swishing, sharp tail did not swing towards his limbs. She knew the layout the apartment and maneuvered to the bedroom. ¡°We¡¯ll have to practice your kissing,¡± she said coyly as she separated and pushed him onto the bed. ¡°I know it¡¯s tricky when I don¡¯t have lips; but we¡¯ll figure something out.¡±
Xera stood in her command center, sipping a mug of what the humans called ¡®coffee¡¯. The bitter, black drink was a nice change from the sweet alcohol earlier. To her left was a monitor that showed Jace and the Churkun woman Shhiv-zal entwined in an embrace, disrobing each other. ¡°Josie, I don¡¯t want to watch this.¡± Xera waved her hand and shifted away from the lovemaking-in-progress of her Signer. Focusing on Greg and Missy, she observed the two had safely made it back to their apartment. Good, they weren¡¯t attacked. That was one of her concerns, was that other factions had picked up on Greg¡¯s importance to Jace. His only real weakness might be these connections. I can¡¯t remove them, because then I would be a villain to him. I wonde- The noise of passion and carnal pleasure caught her attention, and she wheeled around. She saw Josie looking at the two on the screen, engaged in their tumultuous activity. And the volume was seemingly maxed out. Xera blushed at the activity and shouted, ¡°Josie! Really?¡± ¡°What? It¡¯s hot, inter-species action. Want some popcorn?¡± ¡°Mute the audio. I don¡¯t want to hear that!¡± Xera sighed and turned away, pulling up a panel to observe Quinn as the noise faded away. She took some deep breaths to calm herself from witnessing such a basic, primal display. It filled her with a sense of revulsion, that some species still engaged in such barbaric acts. The smell of the buttery substance was alluring, though. ¡°I would like some of this popcorn you talk about. Earth food, correct?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± A tendril held a bucket in front of Xera, and she munched absentmindedly on the salty, buttery treat. They have some great food, she thought as she focused on Quinn once more. The Aspirant was up to something ¨C Xera was sure of that. She was a Signer for the Star Council, after all, and she had a hunch that Star Father told her to vie for Jace¡¯s affection. To manipulate him. Thankfully, it seems like he¡¯s made a choice, Xera thought as she glanced back at the screen Josie was watching. A soft smile graced her lips. Now I have another method of keeping him in check. I just have to keep her safe so she can¡¯t be used against him. She was not able to be harmed while in The Eternal City ¨C willingly harmed ¨C by Aspirants, Ascendants, or other Civilians¡­but capturing someone without causing pain was still doable. She thought back to her encounter in the hallway. The way that Jace seemingly broke when she said the slightest reassurances of her concern and compassion. It left an¡­odd ache in her chest. A deep sense of sorrow that a person could experience life in such a way. It almost made her regret the manipulative nature of it. Almost.
Quinn walked into the Star Council headquarters and went past the front desk, waving silently at Casey, the spider-woman in attendance. Going up to her apartment and keying in, she entered the bedroom and sat on the bed, heaving out a sigh. Baby steps, she thought. Just take baby steps. You¡¯ve got a foot in the door. Just¡­slowly nudge it open. She undressed as she replayed the entire night using her Cybermind Mk. 4. The recorded memories played across her vision as she got into her bed and snuggled under the covers. She analyzed the different interactions and came to three conclusions. First, was that Greg and Jace were natural friends. She wasn¡¯t sure the depth of their friendship before their Aspirant Trial, but they were seemingly peas in a pod from different plants. Second, was that this shark-woman, Shhiv, was obviously romantically interested in Jace. The way she dressed made it apparent that she knew what she wanted. Going through the Broker interface in The Cosmic System, she found Shhiv¡¯s file and quickly perused it. Not much information was relevant, but the one bit that was relevant was that she had used a bypass request ¨C a way for Civilians to circumvent the bureaucracy of The Cosmic System and redeem Boons of a minor level. She had¡­almost a hundred Common Boons saved up? Boons could be saved up and converted to a higher rarity version if they were the same. For instance, 3 Common (Equipment) Boons could be turned into a single Uncommon (Equipment) boon, and so on ascending upward. Civilians only ever received Common boons. She spent 27 Common Boons for him? The woman had to have some ulterior motive¡­but Quinn couldn¡¯t guess at what it could be. She was a nobody. Unlike Sera. Whoever that woman was¡­she had power. Political power. She had a Civilian Symbol just like Missy and Shhiv¡­but the fact that she could get an entire building assigned to Jace meant that she had friends in high places. And how did Jace meet her? Was she a random Civilian? The Cosmic System had a record of a Sera who matched the description¡­but she was just another office grunt. She must have built a massive social network with tons of favors being pulled in. But even then¡­why use so many favors on Jace? Why would a Civilian with that much pull be intereste- She paused. What if Sera is the leader of this Dark Between Stars faction? No one would ever suspect a Civilian as a faction leader. It couldn¡¯t be this Shhiv woman ¨C she was not rich or well-connected enough. But Sera? It could be her. And it wasn¡¯t like Civilians couldn¡¯t form a faction ¨C just not be in them. Thinking back to her encounter with Star Father, he didn¡¯t have the coloration on his fingers marking his faction designation, so she knew that faction leaders did not have the markings. Maybe¡­Dark Between Stars was just a code-word for the faction run by Civilians who were¡­working on behalf of The Cosmic System? Sera might be the current faction leader. Since she¡¯s locked to 150 years like the rest. It¡¯s something worth looking into.
Jace woke up, the night sky above in the recreation of the Starlit Sea, a dazzling display that filled him with a sense of wonder. He felt the soft breathing next to him, wrapped up under the covers. The slightly rough skin pushing against his prosthetics and torso. What a night, he thought as he replayed the events from the prior evening in his head. He¡¯d never¡­been with a person in that way, before. It was fun, and exhausting¡­and quite enjoyable. Those butterflies in his chest persisted throughout the whole encounter, only fading when they both collapsed, exhausted, and fell asleep in each other¡¯s embrace. ? ?She shuffled a little and nestled into the crook of his arm. Still sleeping and fidgeting slightly as her tail slipped around his leg. The sharp blade on the end made a slight scuffing noise against his prosthetic ¨C and would have sliced his skin open if it wasn¡¯t made of magitech metal. Unfortunately, thanks to the CIF, he could feel the blade as if it was touching his skin ¨C and he unwittingly winced. Shuffling his feet, he was able to kick some of the sheets over the swishing tail so it wouldn¡¯t bump against him. ? ?That was one concern he had when they had first started to disrobe each other. How would she react to the prosthetics? Well, it turned out to not be an issue at all. Even despite a species difference, apparently, she had done research into humans and how to make things work between them. And despite Jace¡¯s inexperience with all things dealing with romance and the lustier side of that ¨C Shhiv was kind, gentle, and took the lead. It was definitely a learning experience for both of them, and there was just as much passion as there was awkward laughing as they tried to figure out what worked and what wouldn¡¯t. Never thought I¡¯d be in bed with an alien shark-lady. Jace fell back asleep in her warm embrace, a grin etched on his face. Chapter 35 – Once more into The Cosmic Corridor!
Jace woke up to the gentle, Starlit Sea once more. As soon as he opened his eyes, the gorgeous shark-woman next to him sat up. ¡°Morning sleepy.¡± She leaned down and gave him her approximation of a kiss. ¡°Morning,¡± Jace replied as he sat up. ¡°Last night was-¡± ¡°Amazing!¡± she said with a giggle. ¡°That was fantastic! I¡¯d love to do that more.¡± Jace chuckled and nodded, ¡°Anytime I¡¯m in town.¡± She frowned slightly, ¡°Ah, right. You have Aspirant stuff to do.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve got your information now, though. I can always message you and keep in touch.¡± ¡°I¡¯d like that!¡± she got out of the bed and stretched, ¡°Mind if I use your hygiene station?¡± ¡°Go ahead,¡± Jace replied as he sank back into the bed. As she left, Ollie appeared with a pop. ¡°How was poker night?¡± Jace asked. Ollie smirked as he swam all around the room, ¡°I got another 100 Stardust, bringing our total up to 2200. How was your night? Wait ¨C do not tell me. You invited someone into your bed.¡± Jace chuckled and nodded, ¡°Yeah. Shhiv is really-¡± ¡°I would have expected you to choose Quinn,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°I figured humans would stick together. Most species stick to their own kind.¡± Jace shrugged, ¡°Shhiv is¡­authentic. Quinn wanted something last night. And not in the way Shhiv wanted something.¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°Well, you have enough Stardust for 2 levels.¡± Right, it costs 1,000 Stardust per level, now. ¡°And the Epic (Skill Evolution), correct?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± ¡°I want to use that Skill Evolution on Dark Matter Dart. And let¡¯s get another two Ranks into Cosmic Infusion. It should bring me up to Rank 9, right?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie flew over Jace and Stardust shot from his palm into Jace¡¯s torso. He felt the incredible warmth ¨C different than before, though. It wasn¡¯t a dull, pleasant heat. This was¡­more aggressive heat. Not uncomfortable, just more intense. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 28.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting.], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), Dark Matter Dart [Exploding.] (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3), Cosmic Infusion (Rank 9), Starfire Stride (1/day), Arbiter''s Anathema (1/day) Stardust: 200 Equipment: Swordmage blade, (Medium) Devastation Armor, Wirecannon Arm, Anathema Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, (Heavy) Venture Pack, survival meals (x46), enhanced canteen, optimized medical kit, flint bar, flashlight Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Cosmic Infusion (Rank 8): As Rank 7, increases the user''s sensory traits by a large amount. Cosmic Infusion (Rank 9): As Rank 8, increases the user''s cognitive traits by a large amount. <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Skill Evolution).] [Applying to Skill.] [Skill Name: Dark Matter Dart.] [Evolution Name: Exploding.] [Effect: The Darts explode upon impact, dealing their damage in a small radius (5 ft.).] <<<<<>>>>> The Starlit Sea mockup in his room seemed more vibrant than ever. He could still smell Shhiv¡¯s scent on the sheets even from inches away; a sweet, peppermint-esque smell. He could hear her slight humming from the other room where before he could not. The sheets felt even softer as he could make out the tiny threads by touch alone. And his tongue could still taste the alcohol from the night before. ¡°You have almost capped out Cosmic Infusion at (Rank 10),¡± Ollie stated as he swam in circles before coming to a stop as Shhiv entered the room. ¡°Who are you talking to?¡± Shhiv asked as she joined Jace back on the bed. ¡°Ollie.¡± ¡°Ah, too bad I cannot see your close companion. Do you need to go right now?¡± Ollie frowned and sighed, ¡°Yup. Unfortunately for you right now, we do. An event is coming up on the world Xera wants us to visit next. And if we are not there, we cannot participate.¡± Jace looked to Shhiv and gave her a kiss before pulling away. ¡°Sorry. We have to head out. Something with a time limit.¡± He looked back to Ollie, ¡°Missy said she could see Greg¡¯s Wayfinder. Could you do the same for Shhiv?¡± ¡°I could,¡± he replied. ¡°Will you?¡± ¡°Sure.¡± He clapped his paws together. Shhiv squealed with delight, ¡°Oh my gosh! A Wayfinder! And he¡¯s sooo cute!¡± Ollie wiggled his whiskers and flew around the room before wrapping around Jace¡¯s neck; hovering just above his skin or partly phasing through him. ¡°Thank you for the compliment.¡± Shhiv sighed, ¡°Well, let¡¯s get you dressed.¡± She rummaged around on the floor, tossed his clothes at him, and pulled her own dress on from the night before ¨C which had several rips along the side from their night of passion. ¡°Ugh. Walking home in this is going to be so embarrassing.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll walk you home. Let me hit that hygiene station first,¡± Jace replied. He popped into the restroom, quickly used the odd machine, threw on his equipment, grabbed his bag, and led Shhiv out. He pictured her apartment, and after a minute of walking, they arrived outside her door. Walking her up and into the building, she turned at the door and gave him another brief kiss. ¡°I take it you¡¯re into me then?¡± she asked, eyes vibrant except for that black slit of a pupil that stayed trained on Jace the whole time. Jace nodded, ¡°Yeah. Last night wa-¡± ¡°Perfect! It was perfect. I¡¯ll send you a message every other day ¨C don¡¯t want to be clingy. More often, if you want ¨C but you¡¯re going to be busy, I¡¯m sure.¡± Her expression became slightly less enthusiastic. ¡°Be safe¡­please.¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Jace replied with a grin. ¡°I want to come back and spend more time with you. I¡¯ll take you up on that offer to go swimming.¡± She grinned and nodded, ¡°Okay. Well¡­bye for now.¡± She gently shut the door, and Jace left the building feeling fulfilled and ready for what lay ahead. Ollie floated out in front of him, ¡°The world we are heading to is Nihilethelea.¡± ¡°That¡¯s a mouthful,¡± Jace mused as he clasped his hands behind his head and walked towards The Cosmic Corridor. ¡°Yeah. It is named after a powerful archmage who managed to become their first Ascendant. It is part of the Planetary Independence Pact. The Archmage Ascendant ¨C most call him Double-A in shorthand ¨C runs the place.¡± Jace felt the world warp around him and was standing amongst the roving crowd in The Cosmic Corridor proper. ¡°Why this place in particular?¡± ¡°Every ten years he uses his magical powers to create what he calls ¡®dungeons¡¯. Complexes, like the one you cleared back on Velenar Prime. Basically, he is forcing localized Cosmogenic Merging in isolated locales or upon specific creatures. You will have many locations you can clear out with rewards coming from The Cosmic System itself. Which means we won¡¯t have to tap into her repository.¡± This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. He smirked as he flew around Jace¡¯s neck and hid inside his cloak from prying eyes. ¡°And, whoever collects the most dungeon cores ¨C the ¡®points¡¯ he places at the end of them ¨C will get a special, Legendary Boon from the man himself. One that can be reality-bending.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a race. We want to clear as many Complexes as possible before they are all gone.¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Jace frowned, ¡°And I bet we will find plenty of other Aspirants and maybe even some Ascendants taking on these challenges?¡± ¡°Nope! Just Aspirants of Tier 2. Double-A enforces that rule. It is his world, after all. Even other Ascendants can only enter if he allows it. He is sort of like an administrator for a local section of The Cosmic System. A benefit of becoming an Ascendant strong enough to take control of a home world. If, for example, the Star Council takes over Earth, then they would be able to impose similar rules.¡± ¡°I should get a means to move quickly,¡± Jace commented. ¡°If we have to go from Complex to Complex across a whole world¡­How long do we have?¡± ¡°The competition starts in two hours. Everyone starts in the capital city where he has isolated a single portal. We will get System messages about how many Complexes are left to beat. The competition ends when every Complex is cleared ¨C or ¡®dungeon defeated¡¯ as he will put it. But you cannot purchase a hypercycle like that woman brought to Velenar Prime. You will have to rely on world-appropriate types of transport.¡± ¡°Why was she able to bring a hypercycle there, anyhow?¡± ¡°Because it was a magi tech world. Those can support both magic and technology. Versus where we are going, which is magic-only. Speed will be very important! Which is why you have some Stardust left over. We can rent a Nichken.¡± Ollie chuckled, ¡°They are enormous dogs, with six legs, floppy ears, and cute, adorable tails.¡± Jace felt giddy with excitement. He was all about speed, and riding a giant dog sounded like an amazing experience. Plus, the idea of being in a race of some type just spoke to him and his courier background. Hell, with Dark Matter Cloak, I can probably sneak to the end of these Complexes and snag these dungeon cores. Jace stopped off by The Star Market to pick up his new device. Quinn was not there, but a Civilian-marked alien with red skin and black horns atop their head was leaning on the counter. ¡°Hi there. How can I help you?¡± ¡°Just picking up something I paid for,¡± Jace replied. ¡°A prosthetic repair tool. Under the name Flicker, most likely.¡± The man nodded and dipped into a back room before returning with a toolbox with latches on the sides. ¡°One Omnitech prosthetic repair module. Already paid for. Automatically repairs magic, magitech, or technological prosthetics. Just be warned ¨C it only has three ¡®charges¡¯ before you need to restock the supplies inside. We can do that for you when it runs out.¡± Jace put it into his backpack, nodded in thanks, and went back to The Cosmic Corridor. Okay, focus on this world you want to visit. Magic world with the upcoming event¡­ He came to a stop in front of a shimmering, pastel-blue portal. Here we go. A world full of magic... The fact that worlds had actual magic was filling him with a buzz he couldn¡¯t describe. He had never even contemplated magic¡¯s existence before this whole Cosmogenic Merging. Hell, he had a magitech arm and legs, and a fully magic arm. This whole universe is wild. But¡­he took a deep breath and calmed himself. Remember, it¡¯s all to hit Tier 10. To get Chroma back. Don¡¯t get overconfident. One slip could lead to it all ending. Walking through the portal, Jace felt an immense pressure squeezing him from all sides ¨C like he was being smushed in a vice grip ¨C before the world cleared in front of his vision. ? ?He was standing in an enormous town square. There was a cheer as he walked past the vestibule of an archway in the center of the enormous, stone space. Looking back, he was shocked to see the portal was much, much smaller ¨C only 20 feet in height and about the same in width. A hand clasped his shoulder, and he wheeled around once more. A portly man with red cheeks and a squash nose grinned at him, ¡°Heyyyy-o. You¡¯re¡­one of them¡­whatchacallit¡­Aspirants.¡± Jace could smell the rank alcohol on his disgusting breath and saw the dull-brown Civilian mark on his hand. ¡°Yes,¡± Jace muttered as he removed the man¡¯s hand and slipped into the crowd. People were coming and going to and from the portal, there was festivity in the air as music played throughout the area. Men, women, and all manner of species were in the throes of celebration. Banners were strung amongst the buildings at the edges of the large space, which stated the title of the event. The Dungeon Run. Scanning the crowd, Jace saw dozens of Cosmic Power symbols scattered amongst them. Some, however, were in clusters. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 1) , Jace thought as the Skill activated. He vanished from sight and made his way through the crowds towards the outskirts of the center plaza. Their Wayfinders were all mingling in the air above them, as well ¨C touching appendages as bright, blue bursts of starlight flared. ¡°Ollie, why are Aspirants grouped up?¡± he whispered. ¡°They are forming a temporary alliance. Grouping up to have a better chance of clearing Complexes.¡± It was at that moment Jace noticed that everyone¡¯s ears were different. They were elongated ¨C quite a lot, sticking out either above their hair or out to the sides. Feeling up to his head, he traced the outline of elongated ears that poked up and back. Right. Environmental Adaptation, he thought. This must be some type of requirement to survive here. ¡°Why do I have long ears?¡± ¡°This is a high-magic world. The dominant species is called the Nethal. The ears function as extrasensory organs that enable you to ¡®see¡¯ magic. Look over there.¡± Ollie pointed, and Jace followed the small paw. A group of musicians was on a small stage, dancing and playing music on various instruments. Cascading through the air, Jace could see ribbons or streamers of glimmering, magical light. ¡°The extrasensory organs inside the larger ears affect your senses.¡± Jace nodded as Ollie continued, ¡°Just keep a low profile until the competition starts. We cannot leave the city until the event begins.¡± Jace walked down the streets that were in a state of revelry. The paved stone below was kept clean by brooms that floated by and swept away garbage and debris as if they had a mind of their own. Into gutters, where some type of slimy substance would engulf the offending refuse and seemingly melt it down to nothing. Magic trash disposal gutters. Cool! Jace kept looking around, and in every direction on this boulevard, he could see all manner of objects flying about and performing tasks. But he didn¡¯t see people. Except for the Aspirants and a few Civilians he had spotted ¨C this place was a ghost town. ¡°Head towards the stables,¡± Ollie advised as he pulled up a map of the town that floated just in front of the two. Jace followed the colored path on the map, dipping around various partygoers who were heading to that central town square. The sound of festivities faded into the background as the silence of an abandoned city asserted itself. Even Jace¡¯s enhanced senses could not pick up much sound outside of the skittering of rodents, unseen in their hovels. On the outskirts of the city were dozens of large, multi-story houses that appeared to be some type of tenement. They were poorly kept and falling into disrepair. ¡°Ollie, how many Civilians chose to stay here?¡± The place was quite obviously where the downtrodden and poor lived. ¡°Almost none,¡± The otter replied. ¡°This world¡¯s offerings pale compared to those of The Eternal City. The only reason people are here is for the start of the competition. Double-A became an Ascendant after almost everyone had relocated to The Eternal City. That is why you see objects going around and performing tasks on their own in the more visited parts of the city. This world is like his own, personal playground.¡± They emerged from the urban sprawl and onto a more well-kempt boulevard. There was an enormous, sealed gate, and a series of stables with plenty of stalls. Aspirants were lined up in front of a counter, waiting for a single attendant ¨C a very overworked looking individual who was hastily trying to process the massive number of rentals. The attendant was marked as a Civilian. ¡°I don¡¯t think we¡¯ll get one of these mounts in time,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°What¡¯s the terrain like outside?¡± ¡°The city is in a forested region. The high, exterior walls prevent sight ¨C but there are trees that ascend 50 feet in height.¡± Jace smirked and glanced down at the Wirecannon Arm, ¡°I can just grapple up high, activate the retraction, and then use Dark Energy Mine to launch myself across the world since I get 30 seconds of no gravity. If something is higher than what I¡¯m standing on¡­I can just do that instead.¡± He smirked, ¡°Plus, I won¡¯t have to worry about dealing with other Aspirants ¨C they can¡¯t fly.¡± He looked at Ollie, ¡°Can they?¡± Ollie shrugged, ¡°Perhaps. Double-A normally does not allow flight on Nihilethelea. But Cosmic Powers are incredibly versatile.¡± Jace went past the crowd and stood before the enormous gates. They were set into solid, grey stone walls covered with lichen. They¡¯re old, he thought. Really freaking old. The wooden doors showed signs of decay under the fresh coat of paint that had been slapped on at some point in the past few days. Cracks that had appeared, the paint having seeped into them. The place would have been considered a dreg heap by any standards of living. It was a ramshackle and crappy construction that had been painted over to look new. As he thought back on the walk through the city, he could recall other small indicators that something was ¡®off¡¯. A bit of scuffed masonry here, a cracked windowpane there, mismatched paint tones, and the like. The city is made to look like it is well kept ¨C but outside of the city center and the ¡®richer¡¯ areas¡­this place is a dump. A loud voice came from behind him ¨C in the direction of the town square. Loud enough to cover the whole city. ¡°Welcome, Aspirants ranked at Tier 2, to Nihilethelea! I am The Ascendant Archmage. You are about to participate in The Dungeon Run! The rules are simple. Your task is to clear as many of the five-hundred dungeons that have been established as you can within the ten-day time limit!¡± His voice was not just loud, but full of vibrance, confidence, and a bit of a chortle that lent credence to the assumption that he was out of shape. ¡°Complexes,¡± Ollie whispered. ¡°Remember, they are just Complexes to us.¡± The voice continued, drowning out the whispered advice of his Wayfinder. ¡°As you clear a dungeon, you will acquire the dungeon core from the pedestal at the end. Whoever brings me the most dungeon cores will win a Legendary Boon. This is in addition to the prizes that The Cosmic System will give you for clearing the dungeon! This decade, we have a total of seven-thousand participants!¡± Jace was staggered. 7,000 people? All of them Aspirants at my same Tier? The situation just became much more dire. Any one of these people could try to kill me for the dungeon cores I¡¯m going to get my hands on. ¡°Oh, and if you beat the record of last decade¡¯s winner, who brought me 22 dungeon cores¡­I will award you a secret prize. Remember, any means of transport is allowed except for flight.¡± That brought Jace some relief. Okay. If the winner the last time only got 22 out of a possible 500, then Ascendants are less bloodthirsty than I thought they might b- ¡°And don¡¯t forget! Killing other Aspirants for their dungeon core is allowed, but only outside of the city limits! You could steal them, as well¡­but where¡¯s the fun in that?¡± There was a mad cackling. ¡°You have five minutes. Prepare yourselves! When the sky turns pure gold ¨C you may leave the city!¡± The voice faded, and Jace saw the Aspirants near the stables beginning to squabble among themselves to try and get a mount. Then, weapons came out. Cosmic Power symbols flared, and screaming permeated the once-party-fueled atmosphere. ? Chapter 36 – On your marks, get set, dungeon run!
The combat at the stables began to escalate, and Jace went to the wall opposite the fray. ¡°Hey! I said no fighting!¡± The whole group at the stables vanished in a shimmering, golden glow that formed a line of sand which shot to the blue portal in the center of the town. ¡°Not until you leave the city! Disqualified!¡± Ollie cleared his throat, ¡°There is a reason there are very few Citizens here. Double-A is crazy. But this is our best chance to get a lot of Stardust, fast. Plus, a bunch of Boons for clearing Complexes.¡± Jace got on top of the wall and saw a shimmering, golden barrier just at the edge ¨C slightly opaque but still just transparent enough to get a glimpse of the surroundings. He could see the forest Ollie had talked about. It extended in all directions away from the city until the edge of the horizon. ¡°Can you pull up the map?¡± Jace asked. Ollie did so, and Jace saw that the city was located on a peninsula. All the dungeons were on the mainland ¨C and this gate faced the direction he needed to go. If he went in any other direction ¨C he would arrive at the ocean. And there¡¯s no dungeons out there, he thought. The mainland was split up almost like a game board into various regions with different terrain and environment types. An intentionally terraformed and designed world made for a game, Jace realized. There were fifty ¡®tiles¡¯ of various terrain types, and ten Complexes inside each ¡®tile¡¯, marked out on his map with glowing, gold dots. The tiles were 50 square miles apiece. He could see the purple dot marking him, and the blue dot marking the portal. Everything else was unmarked. I can¡¯t track other Aspirants, he thought, as he glanced back to the town center. Aspirants were leaving the area and heading towards the gates just below him. Jace shook his head and refocused on the map, trying to plan. Everyone is going to rush to the dungeons closest to the city here. The way I¡¯m traveling, I need to avoid regions without high objects to grapnel to. That meant, ideally, he would be heading towards the mountainous regions. One of the two regions had a volcanic area at the center, the other had a glacier. I don¡¯t have any means to stop from getting fried. And this gear protects me from the cold. He began outlining his plan in his mind. There were two forested regions just off the starting peninsula ¨C he could use the trees to launch himself with a Dark Energy Mine removing gravity. That would get him a huge lead on his competition, who would have to navigate the trees on the ground. And it¡¯s not technically flying, since I¡¯m just weightless and falling. ¡°Five seconds,¡± Ollie whispered. Jace nodded and focused on his torso. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). The bead of black light appeared on his chest, and he looked out, spotting a small tree, raising the Wirecannon Arm. <<<<<>>>>> [Day 1 of The Dungeon Run.] <<<<<>>>>> The golden barrier vanished, and the gates below began to open ponderously. Jace fired the grapnel, saw it sink, and activated the mine on his chest. It exploded with a faint boom and shockwave that distorted the air around him. As soon as he felt weightlessness, he retracted the grapnel line. As he shot to the tree, he thumbed the release and kicked off the tree-top to ascend at an upward angle. Glancing back, he saw that there was a stampede of Aspirants ¨C thousands of them ¨C rushing out of the gates and splitting off into the surrounding forest. They vanished into the canopy and from his view. And now I can drop the Dark Matter Cloak. He let the Skill fade as he sailed over the forest. ? ?The 30-second timer finished, and he felt gravity reassert itself. Angling his body towards a large tree, he shot out the grapnel, latched onto the tree, let himself swing down before coming back up into an arc, and re-activated Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). He felt slightly winded from the use of the Skill, but over the course of twenty minutes, he had cleared the forested region and arrived at the flat plains. This is where it gets trickier. Ollie flew up from around his neck and resumed his full, starry form. ¡°Nothing to grapple to, here,¡± he muttered, putting his small paws on his hips and scanning the terrain. ¡°I don¡¯t need it,¡± Jace replied. The vast expanse of grassland filled him with a sense of exhilaration, and he took off at ¨C what to him was a leisurely jog. In reality, he was running close to 20 miles-per-hour. The Dragonclaw Devastation Legs gripped into the dirt and soil under his feet, propelling him forward at a pace he would have never imagined reaching running through the streets of New Jersey for his courier gig. The wind billowed through his hair, and he let out a laugh at how easy it was to run this fast. The serum that had enhanced his body, plus the Cosmic Infusion Skill, and the CIF fluid that made his legs feel like his legs filled him with a sense of joy that he hadn¡¯t felt in years. He hadn¡¯t really had the chance or motivation on Velenar Prime to run at top speed over the large grasslands¡­but here? Here he was unrestricted and pushed himself as fast as he could ¨C entering a full-out sprint. Two hours of running through the plains and he had to stop for a quick water break. Thankfully, the grassland had small pools here and there he could refill from. ¡°Why not do any of the dungeons in this terrain tile?¡± Ollie asked. ¡°We have passed three already.¡± ¡°Too close to the forest,¡± Jace replied between puffs of breath. ¡°It could take as little as two days to get through the forest region on foot. About twenty miles in a day walking. They¡¯re probably like me in some way ¨C Cosmic Infusion or another Skill. I¡¯d bet that a few of those groups will clear the first few forest tiles at the end of the day. I don¡¯t want to be anywhere near them.¡± Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. He pointed to the far-off, icy mountaintops. ¡°I¡¯m going to start at the farthest end of the world I can and work my way through the terrain tiles that no one else is going to get to anytime soon.¡± He put the enhanced canteen away in his pack and took off once more at a sprint, reveling in the feeling of the wind flowing through his hair and streaking past him.
¡°Goddamn this is heavy,¡± Greg growled out as he wrestled the Vyrknadine onto a small, flat-bed truck that Quinn was standing in the bed of. She pulled as he pushed, and they strapped down the sedated creature. She pulled up her Broker interface and checked off something on her list. ¡°Okay. That¡¯s a male. We need a female for a breeding pair.¡± Greg wiped his brow, ¡°Right, and then?¡± ¡°Then we can deliver them. This is easy, compared to what we could be doing.¡± ¡°Speak for yourself,¡± Greg muttered as he rubbed his still-sore arms. Velenar Prime was a great place to get stuff to sell ¨C mostly more of those flowers. Plus, they could bring a transport with them to load up more cargo. She had found someone who wanted a pair of predator creatures for a private zoo to train them up as guard animals. The hefty amount of Stardust from selling the flowers, plus the contract for these predators was just too good to pass up. Greg sighed and got into the cab of the truck as Quinn slid through the back window to join him. She had a pissed-off look on her face as she clicked her seatbelt and crossed her arms. ¡°You¡¯re angry at something, and you¡¯ve been stewing for days now¡­Want to talk about it?¡± Greg hesitantly asked as he turned the vehicle on and began driving along the cracked road to their next destination. ¡°¡­Gah.¡± Quinn put her head in her hands and shook it. ¡°I¡­I¡¯m not sure what to do,¡± she muttered. ¡°It¡¯s stupid! The St-¡± She stopped and glanced at Greg before crossing her arms once more. ¡°Sorry, can¡¯t tell you.¡± She winced and rubbed her temple, and her face went a little red. Greg chuckled, ¡°I know what¡¯s going on.¡± He put on a taunting voice, ¡°You like Jace.¡± She went flush and frowned, ¡°No! No way!¡± ¡°Please. I heard the way you were talking to him. Totally out of character. You were putting on a face. Trying to impress him.¡± ¡°I-you-no!¡± she exclaimed as she stomped her foot down, the cybereyes in her head whirring rapidly and with a seeming fury of their own. ¡°I¡¯m not¡­into him.¡± ¡°Well, that Shhiv lady was. And Sera? She seemed like a good friend to him. And rich. Loaded in fact.¡± He chuckled as he put his left arm out the window, the cool, winter air passing over his scarred forearm. ¡°I was going to ask if Jace would let me and Missy stay in one of the sections of his larger place. He¡¯d probably let us live there rent-free. I mean, Missy¡¯s place isn¡¯t expensive, but being able to save Stardust would be nice.¡± Quinn frowned and stared forward, the anger giving way to a begrudging puzzlement. ¡°I don¡¯t know what that Sera lady was up to¡­but Shhiv? She was just horny for Jace. All over him. Obviously trying to impress him. It was so¡­desperate. Ugh.¡± The last few words came out with a heavy feeling of disgust. ¡°Stupid shark-woman with her stupid smile, her stupid eyes, her stupid tail. Stupid, muscle woman. She probably has no brains in her noggin.¡± ¡°Are you racist? Er¡­speciest?¡± Greg asked cautiously. ¡°I don¡¯t get what he sees in her,¡± Quinn muttered. ¡°Maybe the exotic angle? Alien species? But, oh, that little dress she wore left nothing to the imagination-¡± Greg smiled, ¡°You¡¯re into him.¡± ¡°No, I¡¯m not!¡± she insisted. ¡°Even if your boss put you up to it. ¡± Quinn¡¯s face paled and she looked at him. Greg brought the truck to a stop and met her gaze. ¡°What?¡± she asked. ¡°Please. It¡¯s easy enough for anyone to figure out if they¡¯re paying the least attention. The Star Council wants to take over Earth. To do that, they need allies. Jace is from Earth. He knows how things work there. And he¡¯s got a unique Cosmic Power no one else has. That¡¯s a huge asset in an operation. Your boss put you up to getting into Jace¡¯s pants so that you can manipulate him into helping. Honestly? It¡¯s smart play. The man is, as far as I know, completely inexperienced with women. It also explains why Jace almost instantly fell in with the shark woman.¡± She set her mouth into a frown once more and stared ahead. ¡°We aren¡¯t talking about this,¡± she muttered. Greg just nodded and stared ahead as well, ¡°Suit yourself.¡±
Night began to fall as Jace arrived at the edge of the plains. He had traversed over 150 miles in a single day ¨C with 100 of that on foot. He was panting with exhaustion and began looking around for a place to set up camp. Taking in deep recovery breaths, he took in the world around him. The skies above had dulled to a soft, silvery glow. There were no stars overhead, just thin lines of silver and gold intertwined and running throughout the atmosphere. The grassland was green and lush, with just a whisper of wind slowly rustling the grasses. ¡°What types of predators will I be dealing with out here?¡± Jace asked. ¡°None,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°The only threats are other Aspirants, and inside the Complexes. Double-A has fully customized this world, including imprisoning or selling off much of the local wildlife.¡± He crossed his arms and tutted, ¡°It is a shame, too. This world used to be full of fantastic creatures.¡± Damnit, Jace thought as he was digging through his (Heavy) Venture Pack. I didn¡¯t get a sleeping bag, tent, or anything like that. Sighing, he dug out two of the survival meals he still had from Velenar Prime, cracked the pouches, and scarfed them down. I suppose¡­ He pulled out his sword and began hacking away at some of the grasslands surrounding him. After ten minutes, he had cleared a small area and piled up a bunch of cut-down grass to make a bed. Laying back on it, he shut his eyes as the whispering wind sang a silent lullaby. Chapter 37 – Well, this cave is quite Complex
[Day 2 of The Dungeon Run.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace was greeted by a message as he woke from his slumber. Letting out a yawn, he sat up and heard Ollie¡¯s pop as he manifested. ¡°Eight days left,¡± Jace muttered as he got into his pack, took a sip of water, and cracked open another meal. ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie began swimming around the air around the young Aspirant. ¡°What happens when the timer ends?¡± ¡°You will be teleported back to the city, and your dungeon cores counted up.¡± Good, I don¡¯t have to worry about traveling back there. I can just focus on my little corner of the world map. ¡°Please pull up the map,¡± Jace requested. Ollie did so, and Jace took stock of the distance. Fifty miles through a cave system with ten dungeons, then a tundra tile, and finally the glacier tile. He wanted to get up to the glacier, because it, along with the volcano, were the two highest points. Once he was up there, he could just run, jump, and negate gravity as he charted a path down the descent, hitting multiple dungeons on the way. Then, he could go back up and repeat the process in a different cardinal direction. Right now, he was on the edge of a plains tile. Cave it is, then, Jace thought when given the only other option of heading into wetlands in an adjacent tile. Both were valid paths, but the cave system wouldn¡¯t slow him as much as the wetland would. He stood up, shouldered his pack, and took off running. ¡°Ollie, notify me when we are close to a Complex. I¡¯m going to start clearing them out.¡± ¡°Roger!¡± The terrain went slightly uphill as the grassland suddenly gave way to solid, rocky ground that Jace¡¯s prosthetic leg-claws bit into as dirt kicked up behind him in a spout due to his speed. An enormous, gaping cavern entrance stood in front of him. The cave tile, Jace thought as he crossed the threshold, and his vision shifted to the purple hue to enable seeing in the dark. ¡°When did you start using Earth slang? I¡¯ve heard Greg say that before. Some type of affirmative?¡± ¡°Ah, I learned it from his Wayfinder, Darrin, during poker. I liked it, so I am using it! And yes, it is an affirmation.¡± He pointed to his side, ¡°To your left, through a crevice, there is a Complex,¡± Ollie stated. He flew over to the gap in the wall that Jace would have missed due to how well it blended with the walls. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 10.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Clear the spider cave Complex.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Common (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°That¡¯s a crappy reward,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°You can turn 3 of a lesser quality into 1 of a higher rarity ¨C as long as they are the same type.¡± Ollie flew in front of Jace, scanning the path through the close rock surfaces. ¡°So, 3 Common Boons can create 1 Uncommon Boon of the same category. That is how Shhiv got you that Epic Boon that saved your butt back on Velenar Prime at the start of your Aspirant Trial.¡± Jace went over to the wall and flattened himself, shimmying into the crevice before emerging in a large cavern. He was on a raised platform, and below him was a vast array of spider webs. She¡­must have really cared, Jace thought. 1 Epic rarity Boon would be¡­27 Common ones. ¡°How many Common Boons does she have?¡± ¡°Civilians get 1 Common Boon every month if they are employed by The Cosmic System, along with 10 Stardust. I do not know her exact count of either. Their housing and basic food needs are covered if they work for The Cosmic System.¡± Jace felt those butterflies in his chest once more. She spent over 2 years¡¯ worth of rewards on me? A total stranger, she¡¯d just talked to once. He chuckled. I must have made one hell of an impression. Jace drew his sword. ¡°Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2),¡± he stated. The blade surged with the crimson and purple nebula, as the tower shield manifested on his Wirecannon Arm. Spider webs coated the floor below the small ledge. 10 enemies, Jace thought. Easy enough. Let me just get their attention. Scanning the chamber, he saw no entrances or exits. At the center of the webs was a large, gold pedestal with a golden sphere on top. It was surrounded by shimmering, silver sands. That must be the dungeon core. He stared up at the ceiling, and thanks to Cosmic Infusion was able to make out the skittering shapes of several spiders. He raised his sword, ¡°Dark Matter Dart (Rank 1) [Exploding].¡± The single dart of purplish matter was sparking with a vibrant, yellow, crackling nebula as it launched out from the tip of the blade. It surged up as fast as a bullet, impacted the spider, burrowed deep into the creature ¨C and exploded in a cloud of yellow nebula. Jace felt the tap on his energy and took a sharp breath. The rest of the spiders began moving as their fallen ally¡¯s remains fell to the floor. They swarmed over the walls and ceiling, right towards Jace¡¯s position at the cavern entrance. Raising the sword, he waited until the first one came into range. It was a hairy, twelve-legged aberration that had black markings that ¨C if he squinted ¨C looked like a skull. ¡°Death¡¯s Head Recluses,¡± Ollie stated as he monitored the battle and tracked the creatures. Jace swung out and lopped the first one¡¯s head off. The creatures couldn¡¯t see his blade and had no sense of where the danger may come from. To them, this was a tasty, unarmed morsel. They closed, were killed by the invisible blade, or were injured and backed away. But even that did not save them, as the purple miasma opened micro-singularities along the wounds that dealt further damage, and the crimson nebula ¡®bleed¡¯ effect spread across their forms. They began to drop, and after only a few seconds of fighting ¨C Jace was alone. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Clear the spider cave Complex.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Common (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Ollie flew over the spiders and sucked up their bodies, transforming them into Stardust that flew into his palm. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 1250.] <<<<<>>>>>Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. Jace hopped down to the floor of the chamber and walked forward despite the sticky webbing trying to hold onto his legs. He was just too strong, and he snapped the adhering material. The swirling silver around the orb had vanished, and Jace grabbed it from the pedestal. ¡°Do you hold this? Do I?¡± he asked. ¡°In the backpack!¡± The young Aspirant nodded and swapped the tower shield to his sword-arm so that he could put the orb inside his backpack. Ollie continued, ¡°The orbs will ¡®fuse¡¯ together and become bigger the more of them you get.¡± ¡°Right. Back up, then.¡± Jace went back to the small ledge, jumped up, and went back into the main cave. ¡°Next one?¡± Ollie pointed down the tunnel, ¡°That way.¡± I just have to keep the Skills manifested, and I don¡¯t have to keep re-spending the energy. Jace followed his Wayfinder¡¯s instructions, arriving at another crevice that he squirmed his way into.
¡°Die already!¡± Nzyo shouted out as her mandibles clicked together in rage. She swung her massive broadsword, crackling with violent, astral fury around her body and felt the metal bounce off the carapace of the Complex creature. ¡°Why can¡¯t we hurt it?!¡± she shouted out, her Star symbol flaring on her hand as her Skills continued to augment her body and weapon. The creature swung back at her, and she ducked the blow before holding her hand up to it, ¡°Star Surge (Rank 4) [Melting.]!¡± Her pincer illuminated with a glowing, white-orange energy that lanced forward and expanded, boring a hole through the creature¡¯s body. ¡°Yes!¡± she shouted in joy. The creature wheeled back and smacked into her, and she went flying across the cavern. She landed in a heap and felt several of her limbs snap. Her best friend, Vzya, charged into the gap left behind and swung her enormous hammer at the gap in the armor that Nzyo¡¯s beam had carved. Crunch. The hammer smashed into the wound and caved in the carapace. The enormous worm-like creature with its massive arms shuddered before collapsing. Vzya ran over to Nzyo, ¡°Hey, you okay?¡± Nzyo shook her head, clicking her mandibles in fear and panic, ¡°I can¡¯t move. They¡¯re broken,¡± she said, glancing down at her legs. There was a movement at the entrance of the cave, and a voice that echoed through the room. ¡°Well, what do we have here. Two Aspirants. Both injured and barely on their last legs. Thanks for killing the stuff in here. I¡¯ll just take that dungeon core and be on my way.¡± The voice was confident, brash, and masculine. Vzya stood up, ¡°No! You will not take our prize!¡± she began to charge forward. Nzyo cried out, ¡°No! Wait!¡± But it was too late ¨C her injured and tired ally, her best friend, was blasted by a beam of arcing, yellow lightning. It tore a hole through her torso, and she coughed up her pale, green blood as she collapsed. ¡°No!¡± Nzyo shouted, feeling panic and despair set in. The person came in out of the light of the entrance and crouched next to her. He had short fur covering his body, paws at the bottom of his digitigrade legs, and carried a small, steel stick that crackled with lightning in his relatively small, dainty hands. ¡°Ah, sorry about that. Shame, having to kill another Aspirant for no reason. Now, you just stay there with your broken legs, and I¡¯ll be on my way with that dungeon core.¡± He pointed the wand at her and smiled as he waved it around, ¡°And no sneaky business! I¡¯ll fry you where you lay!¡± She made out the Nebula symbol on his left hand, holding the metal stick. His face, though, is what caught her attention the most. It looked like the creatures that hunted her kind on their home world. A small snout, whiskers that wobbled back and forth, and piercing eyes that watched her keenly. She kept fully still, filled with fear, as the man with the lightning rod in his grip walked to the pedestal the creature had been in front of, took the golden orb, and left the chamber. Nzyo felt completely helpless, and if she was capable of tears like the other species ¨C she would cry. The depths of her sorrow knew no bounds. ¡°Why?¡± she asked. The voice responded from the cave entrance, ¡°Because there can only be one winner, of course. And why would I risk my own neck fighting these things? It¡¯s much easier to let others do the dirty work, and then come get the rewards.¡± ¡°Will you help me?¡± Silence answered her. ¡°Help?¡± she asked once more¡­waiting¡­but no response came. Her Wayfinder came out of the wall. A grub, just like her child in the clutch-mother¡¯s embrace. ¡°Your ally is gone. Condolences. I will send out a call for help.¡± Nzyo passed out from the pain.
Ollie stopped in front of Jace, ¡°Hold. Something is happening.¡± Jace stopped in his tracks, scanning the area for any sign of danger. He heard the slight drip of water from the stalactites while Ollie floated in place with a blank look in his eyes. He shook his head and grimaced, turning back to Jace. ¡°There is an Aspirant asking for help. She is far, far away from us.¡± ¡°Then why tell me?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Because of the rest of the request. There is a¡­cat-person, to put it simply. A high-level, Tier 2 Nebula user. Some type of mage-oriented Class. He is blitz-attacking other Aspirants when they are just about to finish a Complex and claim the dungeon core.¡± He frowned and swam around Jace, ¡°I just want us to be cautious, is all. He should not be anywhere near us ¨C but you never know. Lightning could mean he can travel quickly.¡± ¡°He¡¯s at, what, level 50 then?¡± ¡°In all likelihood. Or just around it. Saving up Stardust to level up later to keep himself under the level cap for Tier 2 so he does not get booted off-world.¡± Jace frowned as he pushed his way into the next crevice, sword extended out front, shield behind. ¡°I thought most Aspirants rush to their Advanced Class so they can become immortal faster?¡± ¡°It looks like factions are pushing their new Aspirants to focus on gaining Tiers. From what I can gather, they want Tier 5 and 6 to bolster their power.¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°I believe that it is part of a wider trend. There is something going on at the highest levels of faction development that I am not privy to.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 1.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Clear the apex spider Complex.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Uncommon (Information) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Apex spider? Jace thought as he pushed through the slight bit of webbing that his sword cut a gap through. The chamber he entered was flat, with rough walls, stalactites, and stalagmites. The entire chamber echoed with the clack of his prosthetic feet on the ground. ¡°I don¡¯t see it,¡± Jace whispered as he scanned the room. ¡°Behind you!¡± Jace barely turned around in time, interposing his shield between the large stinger and himself. The force of the unexpected blow blew him backward, and he barely kept his feet as he skidded into the center of the room, his claws tearing into the ground trying to find purchase. Above the entrance was an enormous version of the spider he had found ten of already. But this one was bristling with metal blades along its body instead of hair. And was much, much larger. The stinger that had lashed down looked like a scorpion¡¯s tail curled in under its abdomen. Jace raised his hand to the creature, ¡°Dark Matter Dart (Rank 1) [Exploding].¡± The bolt of purple matter arced out ¨C but as soon as it touched one of the bladed pieces of hair ¨C the creature dodged out of the way. It couldn¡¯t avoid the shockwave, however, and with a resounding crack the explosion blew apart the wall behind it. The creature fell forward ¨C having lost its purchase ¨C and Jace ran forward, holding the blade straight up as the monstrous spider fell on top of it. The legs kicked and curled as it screeched and let out a pained wail ¨C the stinger-tail darting forward only to be intercepted by Jace¡¯s invisible tower shield. He heaved his shoulders and ripped the blade down the length of the abdomen as he ran through the back legs. The creature collapsed behind him. ¡°Dust it,¡± Jace ordered as he wheeled around to look at the slain creature. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 500.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Clear the apex spider Complex.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Uncommon (Information) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Uh-oh,¡± Ollie muttered as the Stardust finished gathering in his palm. ¡°Look at the entrance.¡± Chapter 38 – A little bit of magic in my life
Jace did so, and his heart sank. The way he entered was sealed up by the explosion. Damnit. Stupid, Jace. Stupid! He chided himself and kicked at the ground before letting out a huff. ¡°Where¡¯s that damned dungeon core?¡± he muttered. Ollie flew ahead of him, ¡°Oh! Back here! Behind this pillar.¡± ¡°You mean rocks?¡± ¡°Nope! It is a pillar!¡± Jace circled the rocks and saw the golden pedestal. Snatching the orb from the top, he took a closer look at the pillar Ollie was flying around. What is it? He thought as he stashed the dungeon core in his backpack. The rock was¡­smooth. There were very, very faint symbols etched into the stonework. ¡°Can you read it?¡± he asked. Ollie shook his head, ¡°It¡¯s too faded for Universal Translation to pick up.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s use that Information Boon we just got, then.¡± ¡°Roger! Translating the pillar!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Uncommon (Information).] [Query: Information about this pillar.] [Answer: One of the World Pillars that served as the foundation of magic on Nihilethelea. World Pillars were created by the first of the Nethal and infused with their magic and power to control the elements and core concepts of their world¡¯s reality. The pillar was ¡®charged¡¯ and that charge slowly dispersed over the eons, fueling magic on the world. Since the Archmage Ascendant acquired Cosmic Power, the World Pillars have become inert. [The latent power can be claimed by an Aspirant through their Wayfinder.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Pff. Wayfinders cannot interact with the world outside of The Cosmic System proper.¡± Jace gestured to the thing and put his right hand on it, ¡°Might as well try. It could help me get out of here since I collapsed the tunnel behind us.¡± Ollie put his paw alongside Jace¡¯s non-Anathema hand. The pillar glowed with a deep, brown hue that surged into Jace¡¯s hand. ¡°Weird,¡± Ollie muttered. ¡°It gave the equivalent of a Skill, like Legendary Equipment. Once per day. Here¡¯s the information.¡± <<<<<>>>>> Archmage Geomancy - Enables a Geomancy spell of the highest order. <<<<<>>>>> I can use magic? Jace felt a weird rush of joy fill him up. What the heck can this even do? How do I use it? Ollie chuckled, ¡°I could touch this World Pillar¡­possibly because it is so similar to The Cosmic System in its function on this world. Sort of like a sub-program.¡± He looked to Jace and smiled, ¡°You just obtained the highest order of Geomancy. You could easily clear out the tunnel entrance.¡± ¡°How?¡± Jace asked as he looked at his Wirecannon Arm¡¯s hand. ¡°Just say what you want to do. Then, say ¡®geomancy - activate¡¯.¡± Jace got to the collapsed tunnel and raised his right-arm, ¡°I want to clear this tunnel and make the whole cave system easy to navigate. Geomancy - activate.¡± There was a surge of brown light from his palm that pulsed into the space around him; up through the walls of the cave and the heights of the cavernous space. The rocks in front of him receded and formed a neat, smooth tunnel. Walking down the corridor and into the main cave, he saw that the entirety of the cave as far as he could see was smooth, and had been straightened out along all the walls. There were no nooks or crannies. Just easy to traverse, smooth, stone terrain. ¡°Incredible,¡± Ollie muttered as he stroked his little chin. ¡°There are World Pillars for each elemental type. It might be worth sticking around if Double-A will let us after this dungeon run wraps up.¡± Jace cracked a grin and laughed, ¡°I did magic!¡± ¡°You have been doing magic.¡± Jace looked at him, confused, ¡°Huh?¡± ¡°Your class is Sword Mage. Every Skill you have ¨C except for ones from items, Cosmic Infusion, and the two basic ones everyone gets ¨C they are literally magic. It is just manifested through The Cosmic System.¡± Jace looked down at his Cosmic Power symbol, still visible despite the flowing aura around his sword. ¡°Really? I thought it was just space-themed power. More technology, less magic.¡± ¡°Yes and no. Do not think about it too hard. The complexities would go way over your head.¡± Ollie replied with a slight sound of irritation Jace had not heard in a while. ¡°Now come on ¨C you have more Complexes to clear. Looks like this cave tile is going to mostly have spider encounters if the last two are anything to go by.¡±
Flosho gripped his small, metal wand in his left hand. The Nebula symbol on his hand flashed with yellow and blue lightning. His Wayfinder hovered just above his shoulder ¨C a round, frog-like creature with bulging eyes and leathery skin that fell off it in folds that would have dragged along the ground. ¡°This is too easy,¡± Flosho said with a hiss and a grin. ¡°Not setting up guards when making camp? They¡¯re dumb.¡± ¡°Ribbit.¡± ¡°I know!¡± Flosho crouched in the low grasses of the wetlands and slowly approached the Aspirants who had made camp. Like taking money from an untended stall, he thought as he got along the tent. Drawing on every bit of his talents as a thief and cutpurse, he used the tip of his claw to gingerly cut through the tent. There was no light coming from the inside, and the deep sounds of sleep met his keen ears. He could see the slight outline of the people inside and fished around inside their pouches until he found his prize. 2 dungeon cores? They have been making good progress. He slinked away from the campsite and headed towards the nearby plains tile which had no conquered dungeons yet. Flosho had grown up on his home world of Menaly. A child of the streets whose mother abandoned him, he had turned to a life of theft to survive. And he was good at stealing. Excelled at it, even. He was good enough to build up a network of pickpockets and cutpurses to make an enormous profit. He worked his way to the top of the criminal underworld. He made Menaly¡¯s largest thieves¡¯ guild. A world-spanning empire of theft, extortion, and other profitable crimes. ? ?But he was betrayed. His top man turned him in for a massive reward, and he had languished in prison. Then, the Cosmogenic Merging happened. He was able to pass his Aspirant Trial and now as a Nebula Mage, he could plunder every world across The Cosmic Corridor. As part of the Nebula Alliance, it was encouraged, even. Once he had put some distance between himself and the campsite, he looked at the tiles once more and saw one of the cave-terrain areas was¡­fully cleared. How? It¡¯s so far ahead of the rest of the crowd? Most of the dungeons between the peninsula and the center-span of the map had been cleared, and Aspirants were spreading to the edges of the map in their various routes. But someone had traveled fast. As fast as he could with his Lightning Leap (Rank 2) Skill. They must have a ton of dungeon cores¡­and be really strong. Flosho was no idiot; he knew that he might be at the top end of Tier 2 and possibly be one of the strongest on this world at this moment. But¡­whoever had run ahead of the pack must be incredibly strong or have a bunch of rare equipment helping them out. But they are probably alone. A group couldn¡¯t travel that fast. There were a few large groups of Aspirants, and he knew to steer clear of those. But the ones who went off solo, pairs, or trios? He could handle them. And this person in that cave tile was most definitely alone, he was sure of it.
You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. Jace lay down, exhausted. ¡°That¡¯s¡­how many?¡± ¡°That is the last in this cave tile,¡± Ollie replied as he cracked a smile and swam rapidly around the prone Aspirant. ¡°Ten dungeon cores acquired. The current total Stardust is 9950, and you have lots of boons. 6 Common (Equipment), 2 Common (Information), and 1 Uncommon (Information).¡± Jace nodded and grinned. The past few hours had been exhausting. He had fought dozens upon dozens of these spider-like creatures ¨C including a few of the Apex ones ¨C but he had it down to a formula. Enter the room, draw the attention, and kill them. If it was the big one? He blocked the surprise attack, countered, and slew them by exploiting their soft underside. The day of fighting had drained him utterly, and he just wanted to sleep. ¡°Are we in the lead?¡± he asked as his breathing calmed. ¡°I don¡¯t know. We can just look at the total number of Complexes cleared to determine how many dungeon cores have been claimed.¡± The map opened above Jace¡¯s head, and Ollie lay on his back next to Jace, pointing up at it. ¡°407 Complexes remain. So, ninety-three have been claimed thus far.¡± ¡°And they are all in those first few tiles,¡± Jace replied. ¡°Expanding along the top and a little into the center. We have to get out of this cave tomorrow and head up the tundra, towards the glacier. Get more towards the edge and just¡­blitz them like we did today.¡± He frowned. Hopefully, they stay consistent given the terrain tile like this cave was. He had fought¡­so many spiders. ¡°You have a ton of Stardust saved up.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Let¡¯s go ahead and use it. 1,000 Stardust per level?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie lay on his side propped up on his little elbow, posing like a pinup model. The sight made Jace chuckle slightly at the absurdity of it. Maybe his tiredness was also influencing his sense of humor. ¡°I want to spend all of it.¡± ¡°Nine levels, you got it. What do you want Skill-wise?¡± ¡°1 Rank in Cosmic Infusion will max that out, right?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± 8 more levels. 8 more Skill Ranks. ¡°What I could use is¡­a finisher. Something big. Like a beam of Dark Matter.¡± ¡°Ready for the warmth?¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Hit me.¡± Ollie flew above him and pulled out an enormous amount of Stardust. The glimmering, whitish-blue sparkles surged and cascaded above Jace, forming a mesmerizing display before surging into his torso. He felt the warmth and then a slight cooling as the ambient temperature of the cave environment reinstated itself. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level.]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 37.] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions.]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting.], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), Dark Matter Dart [Exploding.] (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3), Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10), Dark Energy Beam (Rank 8), Starfire Stride (1/day), Arbiter''s Anathema (1/day), Archmage Geomancy (1/day) Stardust: 950 Equipment: Swordmage blade, (Medium) Devastation Armor, Wirecannon Arm, Anathema Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, (Heavy) Venture Pack, survival meals (x42), enhanced canteen, optimized medical kit, flint bar, flashlight, Omnitech prosthetic repair module (x3 charges) Boons: x6 Common (Equipment), x2 Common (Information), x1 Uncommon (Information) <<<<<>>>>> Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10) - Increases the user''s physical, sensory, and cognitive traits by a massive amount. Dark Energy Beam (Rank 1) - The user fires a beam of Dark Energy that forces the atoms in the object struck to split apart (1 in. diameter). Dark Energy Beam (Rank 2) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (4 in. diameter) Dark Energy Beam (Rank 3) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (8 in. diameter) Dark Energy Beam (Rank 4) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (12 in. diameter) Dark Energy Beam (Rank 5) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (16 in. diameter) Dark Energy Beam (Rank 6) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (20 in. diameter) Dark Energy Beam (Rank 7) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (24 in. diameter) Dark Energy Beam (Rank 8) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (28 in. diameter) <<<<<>>>>> He felt his vision sharpen slightly, and his hearing picked up a drip he hadn¡¯t noticed before. Everything seemed more vibrant as he maxed out the Cosmic Infusion Skill. ¡°Oh my,¡± Ollie said as he hovered in place, a look of panic on his face. ¡°That beam forces atoms to split apart.¡± ¡°That¡­doesn¡¯t sound good,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°I mean, it is, and it is not. It is not like splitting an atom that would cause a nuclear explosion. Dark Energy exerts negative pressure, that ¡®anti-gravity¡¯ force. To avoid the science terms that would go over your head ¨C you would be disassembling matter using Dark Energy.¡± ¡°Like disintegrating something,¡± Jace commented as he sat up and began fishing inside his backpack for his canteen and survival meals. ¡°That is a basic way of putting it, but yes.¡± Ollie smiled and flew around, ¡°It is a powerful tool but very energy intensive. I would use it only as a last resort.¡± ¡°Give me a size comparison of 28 inches.¡± ¡°About as big as one of the tires in your cars on Earth.¡± Jace held up his hand, glowing with the slowly changing, purple shapes of the Dark Matter symbol. ¡°I could really mess someone up with that.¡± ¡°Yes, you could. The (Rank 1) version is not as energy intensive, but I still would not shoot off beams of it all over the place.¡± ¡°Right. So, something to test out.¡± He looked around the rough cave and grimaced, ¡°We should use some of the Boons. I want to use a Common (Equipment) Boon for a sleeping bag. And a second one for a collapsible tent that blends in with the environment. You know, easy to pack and move.¡± Ollie nodded and clapped his paws together. <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Common (Equipment).] [Manifesting.] [Using Boon: Common (Equipment).] [Manifesting.] <<<<<>>>>> Next to Jace, there was a flash of bluish light a little darker than Ollie¡¯s coloration, and a tightly rolled-up bedroll was set next to a corded-up tent. They both had a rustic look to them. ¡°Remember,¡± Ollie said as he flew around Jace, ¡°That the Equipment rewards take after the world they are from. So, you have a camping tent made of Wildercloth, and a bedroll made of Devilsram Wool.¡± Jace set to work putting the tent up. It was easy to do, taking little time at all. It recalled a memory of when he was on his own ¨C before he rescued Chroma ¨C and he had put together a ramshackle tent at one of the bridge underpasses that he had been able to squeeze through fences to get into. The place was one of the safest holes he could find, since the fences kept the bigger street folk that would prey on the young ones alone. He had scrounged, scrimped, scraped, and stolen. Old jackets, discarded sheets, tarps, and other cloth material ¨C all to create a good hiding spot where he and other street kids were able to get away from those who would take from them. It brought a smile to his face, remembering how he had filled in an advisor role to the younger street kids. Passing on his knowledge to others. It had prepared him well for taking care of his sister. As he finished setting up the tent, a small message showed up in the corner of his vision. The text was customized unlike the standard lettering he had been used to. This one was more¡­flowy? And even though his Universal Translation Skill let him read it, the lettering appeared¡­wavey. <<<<<>>>>> [Hi Jace! It¡¯s Shhiv. I hope you¡¯re doing well. I¡¯m able to keep tabs on the System side of things a bit, so I know you¡¯re getting more levels quickly! Exciting stuff. Anyway, just wanted to say that I enjoyed our night and cannot wait for a repeat performance. Message me back if you want to, I¡¯m on the night shift this week.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace put the bedroll and his backpack inside the tent. Let¡¯s see how well it blends in. Standing up and walking around the outside, he was pleased to see that it blended well into the surrounding rock face. Someone would have to get close to spot the fact that it was fabric. Crawling inside, he tied some cords through small rings to seal it up and laid back. ¡°How do I respond to messages, Ollie?¡± ¡°I can do it for you, or you can just focus on the message itself, and then think of a response. When it looks good, say ¡®send¡¯ out loud.¡± Jace focused on the message icon in the corner of his vision, and the screen took up his whole vision. Hi Shhiv. I¡¯m doing well. Actually, just about to head to sleep right now, so I guess we are playing message tag a bit. I am looking forward to spending more time with you. He paused as the message populated in the response box. I really enjoyed my night with you. I hope it¡¯s the first of many. ¡°Send.¡± The System message vanished from Jace¡¯s vision. He waited with bated breath for several minutes. Ah, well, she must be busy. He rolled over and shut his eyes. ¡°Night, Ollie.¡± ¡°Goodnight, Jace.¡± He vanished with his signature pop. Chapter 39 – Traversing the tundra tile
[Day 3 of The Dungeon Run.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace woke up in the pleasant darkness with not a single sound around him. It was calming. Welcoming. A soothing darkness. The bedroll was extremely comfortable, and he had to force himself to leave it. Stretching with a yawn, there was the usual pop as Ollie appeared. ¡°Hey. Ready for another day?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Jace tightly packed the bedroll and exited the tent, rapidly taking it down and rolling it up as well. Good thing I got the (Heavy) Venture Pack, he thought as he was able to shove all the items inside with room to spare. Fishing out a ration, he scarfed it down as he began walking after Ollie. The Archmage Geomancy Skill had completely reshaped the whole cave tile, according to Ollie. Which meant it had affected 50 square miles of terrain. The sheer magnitude of the Skill shocked Jace ¨C and worried him. The whole tile was much, much easier to traverse now. It meant that someone who went that same way would have an easy time of getting through it. Once he had finished off his meal, he picked up the pace to a jog. The air began to grow colder as he ascended a tunnel, his legs clawing into the ground and pushing him forward. He came to a vertical tunnel with no handholds ¨C it was perfectly smooth. Not a problem for me, he thought as he aimed the Wirecannon Arm up, fired it off, felt it latch, and ascended. Once he reached the grapnel point, he planted his feet into the wall, dug the fingers of his Anathema Arm into the rock face with sheer strength, and fired the grapnel once more. At least following me is going to be difficult, Jace thought as he kept traveling upward. Easily 500 ft. The air grew ever colder until he emerged from the tube and was on the surface once more. In front of him lay an enormous expanse leading to a huge, white-blue glacier in the distance. The tundra tile was covered in small rivulets of water that crisscrossed through the clumps of snow. Intermingled amongst the terrain were small patches of plants that were struggling to eke out an existence. ¡°Uh oh,¡± Ollie muttered. ¡°What?¡± Jace asked looking back at the otter. ¡°There are supposed to be 10 Complexes up here in this tile.¡± He grimaced and looked at Jace, ¡°Complexes are normally inside buildings, caves, or somewhere else indoors. They are rarely outdoors.¡± He gestured to the terrain before them, ¡°That makes them harder to find. We have the map with the gold dots, but that is a general area ¨C it could be off by up to 100 ft. We will just be walking, get a Complex notification, and then be attacked out of the blue.¡± Jace frowned, ¡°That¡¯s not good.¡± He looked behind him towards the cave tile and instinctively took a step back. There was an enormous expanse between the tundra he stood on and a mountain range with an even taller volcano behind it. But the space in between, that expanse, scared Jace to his core. It was a pure, black morass of nothingness. ¡°Ollie? What¡¯s this?¡± ¡°Cave tiles,¡± Ollie commented. ¡°If you touched the top, black part there, it would just put you in the cave below.¡± That brought Jace a little relief, and he looked at the fiery peak in the distance once more, ¡°What do you want to bet a World Pillar is there?¡± He looked back to the glacier, ¡°And there?¡± ¡°A solid guess,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°Well, aside from our conjectures¡­we might have to use an Information Boon to narrow it down.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Use one. Let¡¯s see where this first Complex is.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Common (Information).] [Query: Complex location on tundra tile.] [Answer: See Wayfinder map for updated information.] <<<<<>>>>> Ollie clapped his paws, and the map opened before the two of them. In addition to the purple icon marking their location, the blue one marking the portal¡­and the gold dots that had become small arrows. Ollie waved his hands, and the map zoomed in on the tile they were occupying. ¡°Much better. Now I know exactly where they are.¡± Ollie pointed to his left, ¡°First one is that way!¡± Jace nodded and glanced at the ground, ¡°Is this safe to run on? Will I¡­fall through ice or something like that?¡± ¡°Nope. The glacier, you might. But not here. This is solid ground under the snow and water.¡± Jace took off at a sprint, manifesting his Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending] and Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2) as he did so.
Flosho arrived at a large, vertical tunnel of rock. This is irritating, he thought. He could see the claw marks along the wall, and something that looked like a piton or climbing spike had made some characteristic grooves. He had made it to the cave tile shortly after waking up that morning. It was empty of dungeons ¨C just as his map had shown ¨C and he even found a weird cavern with an enormous pillar that was seemingly an ancient carving of a past civilization. Inert, but interesting. ¡°Ribbit.¡± His Wayfinder flopped around in the air above him. ¡°Right,¡± Flosho replied as he put the small, metal wand into the holster on his wrist. He could retrieve it with a flick if necessary ¨C but he would need to put his years of being a catspaw to work. He stretched his body as far as it could, placed his feet on one wall and hands on the other, and began slowly shuffling up.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. It took a good hour, and he was trembling with exhaustion as he reached the top, huffing and puffing. The cold wind made him hiss, and he pulled up his cloak, cinching it tightly around his face and waist to keep the biting frost out. Ah. Claw-prints. A fellow¡­wait. He knelt and peered closely at the claw mark¡­and felt his stomach sink as fear settled in his gut. Gods above¡­ He had seen those types of claw marks before. On another world. An enormous, flying, winged and scaled creature who dwarfed the size of a city. Granted, these claw-prints were much smaller ¨C but Flosho had no doubt in his mind. This was a dragon of some type he was tracking. A bipedal one. And given the amount of water in the print¡¯s base ¨C he was only a few hours behind them. He stood back up and looked in the direction of the tracks. It¡¯s okay. I can take them. He slipped his wand from his wrist-sheath and began following the tracks. I have lightning in my paws, if I can see them ¨C I can kill them. He grinned and picked up the pace a little bit.
The miles passed in minutes, and Jace entered the edge of the area Ollie had directed him towards. ¡°Hold up here,¡± Ollie stated. As Jace did so, the otter moved forward slightly, ¡°Okay. Complexes in the open generally mean a sudden attack. The creature could manifest from any direction.¡± ¡°Right. So, Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3).¡± The tower shield vanished, and Jace¡¯s body was covered in the purple nebula of the shield, hugging him closely. ¡°Where¡¯s the pedestal?¡± ¡°You will see it when you enter the area.¡± Jace took a deep breath and nodded before walking forward. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 1.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Defeat the Frost Wyrm.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Rare (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> The terrain was the exact same. To Jace¡¯s eyes, there was no difference between where he was just standing and where he now stood. The air was a little colder, but negligible. He scanned the sky and saw nothing. Something trembled under him. Instinct told him to move, and he did so ¨C jumping to the left as the ground erupted. Dirt, chunks of rock, and clumps of ice bounced off his shield and he winced slightly at the noticeable energy drain. An enormous, white, scale-covered creature emerged from the ground ¨C a massive pair of teeth jutting forward to engulf him. Crap! Starfire Stride! Jace jumped back, and as he did so a line of neon-purple flames surged up from where he had been standing. As he kept retreating from the rushing maw, it crossed into the flames, and he was momentarily stunned by the incredibly loud roar of pain that hit him point-blank in the face. Thankfully, the momentary dazing effect faded and Jace was able to regain his bearing as the creature reeled back. Now that it was upright, Jace got a good look at it. It looked like a lizard. One covered with scales that were a dull, off-white color. Well, except for the trail that was scorched and charred to a blackened crisp, the few scales falling off and revealing a purple flesh underneath. The head was frilled and had teeth that were as big as his arm lining the edge like a serrated knife. Jace ran forward with as much speed as he could muster ¨C circling the creature and ringing it in flames. As he ran around the creature, he sliced it with his sword, leaving a glowing line of purple and crimson nebula that slowly, inexorably spread. The creature began to submerge, retreating into the hole. ¡°Oh no you don¡¯t!¡± Jace shouted as adrenaline took over. He stabbed his blade into the creature and braced his full weight against the weapon as it tore a gash along the creature¡¯s side. There was an enormous blast of air that flung Jace back ¨C ripping his sword out in the process ¨C as he cut into some type of lung or air sac. He was able to get his feet under himself as the creature writhed around in pain before collapsing. ¡°That was pretty easy,¡± Jace muttered as he walked over to the creature. ¡°Look out!¡± Ollie shouted. The creature whipped in a circle. It was playing dead? The creature slammed into Jace with the full weight of its body behind it. The equivalent of being hit by a semi-truck going fast. Jace was flung into the air and felt extremely tired as the world tumbled end over end. He crunched into the ground ¨C and thankfully felt no pain. But he was just¡­so sleepy. He felt his eyes fluttering shut, but Ollie was right in front of him, and the bright blue kept him from sleeping. ¡°Get up!¡± Ollie shouted. Jace groaned and pushed himself to his feet. The Frost Wyrm was still alive ¨C but with no way to take in air, and the crimson miasma spreading¡­it was just a matter of time. Jace just sat there¡­waiting. The Wyrm eventually succumbed and crashed onto the snow. In front of it, the golden pedestal appeared. Jace groaned and stood up, walking over to the pedestal, and grabbed the orb. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Defeat the Frost Wyrm.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Rare (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> As he put it in his backpack, he looked up to Ollie to order him to dust the creature. But a bolt of blue entered the corner of his vision. Chapter 40 – Laughing at lightning
Jace barely saw an arcing stream of blue electricity streaking toward him. It slammed into his torso¡­and hit the Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3). Surprisingly, Jace did not feel any energy drain. ¡°What was that?¡± He asked as he turned to look at where the bolt came from. A small drift of snow off in the distance. ¡°It was a Skill,¡± Ollie stated. He chuckled, ¡°But Dark Matter is not affected by electricity or magnetism. He could shoot you without your shield and you would just feel a slight irritation on your skin.¡± ¡°It didn¡¯t make me more tired, either.¡± Jace glanced at Ollie, ¡°I¡¯m guessing that¡¯s because of the nature of Dark Matter, also?¡± ¡°Yup.¡± Jace frowned, ¡°I¡¯m too tired to deal with this,¡± he muttered. Raising his voice he shouted, ¡°Hey! Stop that!¡± There was no response. ¡°Fine. Ollie, dust this thing please.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 600.] <<<<<>>>>> Another bolt of blue streaked out and slammed into him. It did not just impact once and stop, though. It spread around his body and formed some type of cage. Jace just walked through the electric bars. ¡°Seriously, knock it off,¡± he shouted over the tundra. Again, only silence answered him. Ollie frowned, ¡°I cannot see them. They must have equipment appropriate to cloak them.¡± He put his paw to his chin and frowned, ¡°Whoever it is must be a Nebula user. Mage Class, for sure, given the nature of the Skill he is hitting you with.¡± Jace winced slightly at another bolt that impacted him ¨C but he couldn¡¯t see where it came from. Just the general direction ¡°Then we get close and find him. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3).¡± He felt woozy and almost fell over from the energy loss, but he vanished from sight.
Flosho ground his teeth in anger. I¡¯ve put almost every Skill Rank into Lightning Bolt! All but three! How is he so damned resistant? Even with the [Piercing] Evolution! ¡°Ribbit.¡± ¡°Dark Matter? What¡¯s that.¡± Flosho asked as he looked at his Wayfinder who was hidden just next to him, behind a small snowdrift. ¡°Ribbit.¡± Flosho frowned, ¡°Not affected? That¡¯s not fair! I thought only Nebula wasn¡¯t affected by electricity!¡± ¡°¡­Ribbit?¡± ¡°If I can¡¯t hurt him with lightning my only chance would be waiting until he tires out and then killing him the old-fashioned way. You sure it¡¯s full immunity? Or just a lot of resistance?¡± ¡°Ribbit.¡± ¡°Highly resistant¡­I can work with that¡­¡± Looking back up he felt his heart skip a beat. The figure was gone. So was his Wayfinder. The fur-covered eel. ¡°Rib-¡± ¡°What?¡± Flosho looked back to his Wayfinder and saw to his shock that the other Aspirant¡¯s Wayfinder was punching his companion. ¡°Hey! Stop that!¡± ¡°Consecutive otter punches!¡± The little, furred creature didn¡¯t stop despite the protestations. His frog was being slapped by the repetitive impacts; prevented from interfacing with The Cosmic System to provide information. That means the Aspirant is- Flosho felt something grip his shoulder ¨C hard ¨C and he let out a cry of pain as his limb was wrenched from its socket. Not ripped off ¨C just dislocated. But the pain was intense. He looked over¡­and saw nothing. Heard nothing. Smelled nothing. Just the pressure on his shoulder. Something ripped his wand from his grip before he could react, and he was shoved forward into the small snowdrift. He felt his bag ripped from his back, ripping the cords keeping it tied to him tearing in twain¡­and he finally heard a voice aside from the two Wayfinders engaging in their mutual combat. ¡°I caught you.¡± Flosho felt his other arm snap, and he whined out in pain. ¡°Mercy! Please, mercy!¡± He was turned over and a figure suddenly appeared in front of him. One of these new humans from Earth. He had dark black hair with purple highlights that were slowly fading, and his deep, purple eyes were also returning to a natural, brown color. He had prosthetic arms and legs. And his face was set into a pissed-off frown. ¡°Mercy? You shot me with electricity!¡± ¡°B-b-but it didn¡¯t hurt you,¡± Flosho stuttered out, wincing at the pain of his dislocated and snapped arm. ¡°Yeah, but you¡¯re a killer, aren¡¯t you? We heard a report about you.¡± ¡°Yup!¡± the furry creature shouted. ¡°Ribbit!¡± Flosho growled as he looked into those condescending eyes. This person was stronger than him, and his Cosmic Power prevented electricity from hurting him? This isn¡¯t fair, he thought. But I¡¯m not dying here! As the figure raised a glowing, purple and crimson blade, Flosho shouted, ¡°Lightning Leap (Rank 2)!¡± He turned into a bolt of electricity, dashed back to the tunnel entrance, and took cover behind the rocky outcropping. He had traveled miles in moments. His Wayfinder was pulled along for the ride thanks to the tether effect. ¡°Ribbit, ribbit. Ribbit?¡± ¡°No! I¡¯m not okay! I can¡¯t use my arms!¡± Flosho groaned, ¡°Screw it! Use the Boons!¡± ¡°Ribbit?¡± ¡°Yes! The Rare (Equipment) Boon! I need a healer!¡± ¡°Ribbit!¡± There was sparkling blue starlight, and Flosho felt his mouth fill up with fluid. He chugged it down and felt an intense warmth shoot through his body. His dislocated arm returned to its spot, his broken arm was repaired, and he felt refreshed and energized. ¡°And,¡± he growled, ¡°I need another wand. Use a Common (Equipment) Boon.¡± There was another sparkle of starlight, and a simpler, plain, wooden wand appeared in his grip. It was not necessary for his Skills ¨C but the Class-specific equipment amplified them. Now¡­I need to tail him until he tires. I¡¯ll kill him when he¡¯s sleeping.
Jace had acquired 5 more dungeon cores. Plus, the 10 he had, and the 1 he had just acquired ¨C he was at 16 total. ¡°Who was that guy?¡± he asked Ollie. Ollie was flying around in the air above Jace, ¡°Well, I couldn¡¯t query the System since I was occupied.¡± He shadow-boxed an invisible opponent in the air above Jace, ¡°I gave him a run for his money!¡± ¡°I thought the damage wasn¡¯t real?¡± ¡°Let me dream,¡± Ollie said, wistfully. Jace chuckled and shook his head as he put the dungeon orbs into his bag. They merged with the larger cluster, and the whole sphere was about the size of a watermelon. ¡°Onto the next Complex?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Jace was still tired, but he got his second wind from that encounter with the cat-man. He examined the wand he had stripped from the Aspirant. ¡°I thought I couldn¡¯t loot other Aspirants?¡± ¡°You can¡¯t.¡± ¡°Then how come I can keep this?¡± ¡°Hmm. Hold it up.¡± Jace did so, and Ollie put his paws on it ¨C well, above it. ¡°Interesting. He intentionally wanted a piece of Equipment from a Boon that could persist after he was gone. There¡¯s an engraving on it. ¡®The legendary, lightning wand of Flosho.¡¯¡± ¡°He wanted to leave a legacy,¡± Jace muttered as he bent it against his leg. The length twisted, warped, and finally snapped in two before vanishing in glimmering, light-blue stars. ¡°No legacy for him.¡± ¡°Yeah, I was going to comment on that whole thing ¨C you were brutal. Breaking both of his arms? Why not just kill him?¡± ¡°I was about to,¡± Jace snapped back. ¡°I was getting ready to stab him anyways!¡± And, it would have been totally justified. He¡¯s a known killer if those Wayfinder¡¯s reports Ollie saw were anything to go by. Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. He shouldered his backpack and kept moving towards the next Complex, Dark Matter Blade still active. But he had dropped Dark Matter Cloak and Shield. He was confident that no one else save for this Mage was following him. ¡°What can we use an Augmentation Boon on?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Ah, they can change your Equipment. Alter it and provide neat effects. For example, you could make your Swordmage blade coated with frost, or flames, or something else like that.¡± ¡°Does that interfere with any of my Skills?¡± ¡°Nope!¡± ¡°¡­What about my tent?¡± Ollie stopped in midair and turned to Jace with a curious expression, ¡°What?¡± ¡°I mean, if I could change the tent to make it, I don¡¯t know, speed up how quickly time passed inside versus outside ¨C I could get in a full rest and not lose on that much time outside of the tent.¡± Ollie put his paw to his chin and concentrated, his eyes going black for a few moments before returning to normal, ¡°Yes, but with a Rare version, you would only feel the effect while you are asleep. Not just sitting in there, awake.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Let¡¯s do that.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Rare (Equipment Augmentation).] [Target Equipment: Wildercloth tent.] [Augmenting.] [Result: (Restful) Wildercloth tent.] [Description: The Restful (Equipment Augmentation) provides a time-dilation effect. One hour outside the tent equals a full night¡¯s rest (while sleeping only).] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Right. Let¡¯s get up next to another Complex, and then give this tent a test run.¡± The travel to the next Complex was uneventful, and Jace set up the tent. The exterior cloth shone as bronze flecks seemed scattered within the fabric. Jace crawled inside, rolled out the bedroll, and sealed it up before almost immediately passing out from exhaustion.
¡°And that¡¯s twenty-thousand Stardust,¡± Quinn muttered as she counted out Greg¡¯s cut on her floating, golden screen. Valerie ¨C her Wayfinder ¨C flew over to Darrin ¨C Greg¡¯s Wayfinder ¨C and transferred the Stardust. I¡¯m at 29,050 Stardust after all is said and done, Quinn thought. She had been saving up all her Stardust, intending on using it to purchase a mansion in The Eternal City. She had learned that any person could buy property from The Cosmic System directly, using several terminals and Stardust that were readily available in Khrox. It¡¯ll be 12,000 to go from level 1 to 25, and then that leaves me with 17,050. Another 17 levels at 1,000 Stardust each puts me at level 42. She sighed. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Greg asked as he finished his own Stardust infusion with his Wayfinder. ¡°You¡¯re rich!¡± ¡°Yes,¡± she replied. ¡°And I have to hit level 51 to count as Tier 3 and be able to do what the Star Council wants me to do back on Earth.¡± She sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose, ¡°I wanted to save up and be rich, and then just leisurely work my way up to enough Stardust to become an Ascendant. But I don¡¯t get that choice.¡± Greg frowned, ¡°Well, sorry you feel that way.¡± ¡°What level are you now?¡± she asked as she crossed her arms. ¡°35,¡± Greg replied with a grin. ¡°I¡¯m a tough bastard now. Well, I always was. But now? I¡¯m even harder to crack. Want to see?¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Darrin floated up and displayed a screen with Greg¡¯s information. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Greg Bhastal (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Planet [Protector 36] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Protector''s Vow (Rank 3), Planetary Defenses (Rank 3), Planetary Retribution (Rank 3), Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10), Protector''s Panacea (Rank 8), Planetary Palisade (Rank 10), Planetary Growth (Rank 1) Stardust: 90 Equipment: Protector''s starting gear, Pheracorp deflection matrix, Stunstick Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> ¡°These new Skills are awesome! I take a quarter of the damage that my Protector¡¯s Vow target takes ¨C so if you got stabbed and it would go 4 inches in, I¡¯d only be stabbed an inch deep. I¡¯m not slowed down by Planetary Defenses anymore. I redirect all the damage I take when Planetary Retribution is active ¨C I¡¯d hate to be on the side firing bullets at me.¡± He put his hand to his chin, ¡°But I wonder if the damage would direct to the guns, the bullets, or the people. Hmm. Something to test.¡± ¡°And the rest of the Skills?¡± Quinn asked, authentically intrigued at what he could do now. ¡°Protector¡¯s Panacea lets me heal all injuries and afflictions on anyone within 30 ft. The Palisade lets me make a wall of any solid common stuff. Here. I¡¯ll show you.¡± He walked outside of The Star Market, planted his hands on the ground, and they glowed with a deep, brown hue. A moment later the ground erupted in front of him ¨C forming an enormous wall. The sudden appearance of the wall caused a bit of a commotion as Civilians cleared the area ¨C knowing they couldn¡¯t be harmed willfully while in The Eternal City, but not wanting to stick around what suddenly seemed like a combat zone. ¡°Up to 10 inches thick, and I can make 50 square feet worth of wall. It isn¡¯t permanent, though,¡± he stated. Snapping his fingers, the wall disappeared. He had sweat beading on his forehead, and he chuckled, ¡°That was¡­wow. Big energy expenditure.¡± ¡°I¡¯m guessing the last one lets you just grow plants?¡± Greg gave her a thumbs up as he caught his breath. ¡°Why not go for your Advanced Class and Ascended Power?¡± Quinn asked. ¡°Please. You heard Jace¡¯s plan. Get to Tier 10? Being able to bring people back from the dead? I need that. Missy will die, eventually, when her time is up. But if I can bring her back? I¡¯ve got myself an immortal wife.¡± He grinned and the smile was infectious, as Quinn found herself also smiling. ¡°Why not just ask Jace when he gets there?¡± ¡°Insurance. Jace is a tough guy. He¡¯s motivated and has one hell of a survival instinct. But if he fails? I don¡¯t want to be locked out of the option.¡± Quinn nodded, ¡°Understandable.¡± Greg gestured to Valerie, ¡°Are you going to level up?¡± I don¡¯t want to, Quinn thought. But I don¡¯t really have a choice in the matter. ¡°Valerie, let¡¯s do it. Use all of it.¡± ¡°You sure? I can always set some aside in a little fund-¡± ¡°The sooner we get up to Tier 3, the sooner I can deal with this Earth situation, and then be done with it once and for all. But I don¡¯t want too many new skills. Max out what we can, and then give me that Cosmic Infusion with whatever Ranks we have left over.¡± At least that should be useful no matter what. ¡°Okay!¡± The bird flew around Quinn¡¯s head, and she felt an intense rush of heat in her torso. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Quinn Cipher (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Star [Broker 42] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Broker''s Instinct (Rank 1), Broker''s Contract (Rank 20), Broker''s Fee (Rank 16), Cosmic Infusion (Rank 7) Stardust: 50 Equipment: Broker''s interface, Broker''s starting gear, Webwalker Implants, Cybereyes Mk. 3, Cybermind Mk. 4 Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Broker¡¯s Contract (Rank 20) - As Rank 1, lasts up to 504 hours. Broker¡¯s Fee (Rank 16) - As Rank 1, increase the amount of Stardust created (50%) <<<<<>>>>> She felt her heart sink a bit. You are an idiot, Quinn. You should¡¯ve leveled up and put Ranks into Broker¡¯s Fee before selling all that stuff! Damnit! She could have had so much Stardust. ¡°We need to go on another trade run,¡± Quinn muttered, thinking of all the free Stardust she had missed out on because she was stubborn about saving up for a luxury purchase. Who could blame me, though? I¡¯ve never had this much freedom in my life. I just wanted one, goddamn mansion. Is that too much to ask for? ¡°Give me a day off, at least! I gotta visit Missy and check in.¡± Quinn sighed, ¡°Fine. Take ¨C no, you know what, take two days. Treat her to a restaurant or something.¡± She felt miserable as she thought about all the Stardust she had missed out on. Idiot. ¡°Hey! Alright, see you in a few days.¡± Greg left down The Cosmic Corridor. Quinn turned around and entered The Star Market, sighing as she looked around the austere space. Stupid Quinn. She winced and felt the pounding pain in her brain, right next to her temple. Where the Cybermind Implant was located. It¡¯s degrading more. I need to replace it. She wished she could blame her lack of judgement about ranking up Broker¡¯s Fee before selling all of those materials on the implant¡¯s degradation. But she couldn¡¯t. Be smarter, Quinn. Chapter 41 – When a cat lays a trap
Jace woke up and Ollie popped into existence. He felt quite refreshed, if hungry. Snacking down on a survival meal and taking a sip from his canteen, he sat silently contemplating his situation. I¡¯m up on the tundra, and there¡¯s 9 other Complexes up here. I can stay here, or I can go to the glacier tile. The tundra was safer, since there were no icy crevasses he could fall into. But based on what he¡¯d been able to piece together ¨C the less hazardous terrain tiles had less valuable rewards for clearing Complexes. ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± Ollie asked. ¡°If it''s worth sticking around this tundra,¡± Jace replied. ¡°Especially since I know there¡¯s someone who is likely coming after me. That cat-man.¡± ¡°His species is called the Moslow, from a world known as Menaly. It is a magic-oriented world with a technology level around that of the late-middle ages. Pretty standard fare, all things considered.¡± Jace got out of the tent, packed it up along with the bedroll, and began walking to another Complex on the map Ollie manifested. ¡°Let¡¯s just tackle the Complexes that are on the way to the glacier.¡± ¡°There¡¯s three on the path,¡± Ollie replied. Jace nodded and glanced back over the landscape behind him. No sign of that guy.
Flosho was breathing heavily when he arrived at a cleared-out space that was roughly square in shape. Did he set up camp? ¡°Ribbit.¡± Looking up, Flosho saw the claw-feet marks going towards the glacier in the distance. ¡°Smart for a solo act. Get up high, clear out those dungeons, and then use the height to see where your competition is.¡± ¡°Ribbit.¡± Flosho wheeled around on his Wayfinder, ¡°What? World Pillars?¡± ¡°Ribbit.¡± He was familiar with the concept. They were called different things on each world that had heavy magical influence ¨C well, as far as he could tell. They were the power source for magic on multiple worlds before The Cosmic System subjected the world to Cosmogenic Merging, and then when people began drawing on Cosmic Powers instead, the World Pillars went dormant. On his home world, they were enormous crystals. And the first Aspirants who returned to the world and touched them gained the rest of their power. And it was a genius idea. The Archmage Ascendant who ruled this world didn¡¯t have need of them. Why would he care about them? His power was beyond what they could enable. But he only let people into this world once every ten years for this Dungeon Run event. How long has this Dark Matter Aspirant been waiting for this chance? He looked up at the glacier and noted that the footsteps did not lead directly to it. I could get there first. Try to find the World Pillar, absorb its power for myself¡­it would give me an element that his Cosmic Power is not naturally resistant to. And¡­he will come to me. Flosho began heading to the imposing mountain of ice.
Jace came to a large, cleared off patch of dirt and debris. ¡°Right. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3).¡± The blade and barrier ignited with their purple and crimson glow, and he stepped towards the cleared area. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 2.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the ice wraiths.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Rare (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> The air grew cold. So cold that breathing it in hurt Jace¡¯s lungs. He wrapped his cloak tighter around his face to try and stave off the effect. Ollie¡¯s head warped and distorted for a moment, and then when his form became solid once more, he was wearing a winter cap. ¡°Ice wraiths,¡± he stated. ¡°Good thing you have a Skill enhanced weapon.¡± ¡°Why?¡± Jace asked as he kept looking around the area, slowly walking towards the center of the grassy patch. ¡°They are ghostly. Incorporeal. Only Skills can harm them. Blades, projectiles ¨C all of that would go right through them.¡± ¡°Does that mean they can touch you?¡± ¡°Nope! Different type of ethereal. I¡¯m sort of like a hologram extending from you as my tether. They are quite literally in a different phase of reality¡­partially.¡± Jace¡¯s breath came to him with more struggle and he felt his body begin to ache from the intense chill. As if by instinct, he swung his blade out to his left side. A crimson and purple gash appeared in the air, and Jace looked at it quizzically. Did I hurt it? The colors began to travel along the creature¡¯s form, and he could make out the general shape as the purple coated it ever faster. The form was almost spherical with just a little bit of angular-ness to it. Jace watched it as it flew away. Well, it will bleed out. Where¡¯s this other one? He felt cold once more ¨C but this cold penetrated his chest and he couldn¡¯t breathe. Swinging wildly around himself, he tried to make contact with whatever it was. ¡°It¡¯s inside you!¡± Ollie shouted. Fuck that. Starfire Stride. Jace¡¯s legs erupted in the cosmic, purple flame, and he sat down. The cold feeling vanished almost instantly, and Jace swung lazily upward, feeling the sword catch on something. The crimson and purple spread along the second one of these wraiths, and Jace felt his breath return to him as the cold chill faded. He watched the two purple and crimson-covered forms flying into the sky ¨C trying to escape the effect that would never end unless Jace willed it. ¡°How come that one got through my Shield?¡± Jace asked. ¡°It blocks damage. Not environmental effects. And these¡­things¡­distort and change the environment around them. Seems like big, area of effect Skills are the ticket to dealing with them.¡± The two motes of light vanished up in the sky, and the golden pillar appeared. Jace stood up and snagged the dungeon core, depositing it into his bag. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay the ice wraiths.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Rare (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Not too difficult.¡± Jace gestured to Ollie, and the Wayfinder pulled up the map. Another two on the way to the glacier. ¡°Wait a second. There are no bodies to get Stardust from.¡± ¡°Yeah, they are incorporeal. It is kind of a rip-off.¡± That sucks, Jace thought as he continued his trudge.
Flosho had just reached the base of the glacier and was taking deep breaths, back to the cool surface, when he saw a faint, purple light off in the distance. If he¡¯s clearing dungeons on the way here that fast¡­I need to pick up the pace. He turned around and began scrabbling up the side of the glacier; his claws more than enough to find easy purchase in the surface. ¡°Ribbit.¡± ¡°Why?¡± ¡°Ribbit.¡± ¡°I suppose,¡± Flosho looked up at the glacier-face and grimaced. Lightning Leap (Rank 2). He turned into a bolt of electricity and flashed up to the top of the glacier, zipping across and to the center-top of the area. Conveniently, the large, grey World Pillar stood as a beacon amongst the white and blue expanse. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 1.] <<<<<>>>>> I can handle that, he thought as a Quest popped up accompanying the dungeon notification. But the reward rarity gave him pause. An Epic Boon? Holding his wand, he cautiously stepped forward. The World Pillar stood there, untouched. The world was quiet save for the whipping, biting, cold wind. Flosho crept up towards it¡­20 feet away¡­10 feet away. He froze in place as the snow in a circle around the whole pillar began to shuffle and move. A single, enormous, light-blue eye glared at him from the snowdrift. There was a deep growth, and a gust of frozen mist surged towards him. Lightning Leap (Rank 2)! He got out of the dungeon¡¯s area and took deep breaths once he was out of the danger zone. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me that it would have a guardian?¡± ¡°Ribbit.¡± ¡°You¡¯re right. This gives us an opportunity.¡± The pillar stood out. This Dark Matter Aspirant would be heading to it. Thinking back, he recalled the pillar in the cave tile. It was like this one, but inert. Son of a whore! He claimed that one already? It lent more credibility to the theory that this Aspirant was here for the pillars and The Dungeon Run was just a bonus to him. It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll set up camp, make a little hiding hole¡­and wait for this creature to either kill him, or weaken him enough for me to finish him off.
Jace had paused for a quick snack of gooey, delicious survival meal, and to fill up his canteen at one of the many streams that crisscrossed the landscape. This place is gorgeous, he thought. The mix of nature pushing through in small spaces among the snowy expanse was soothing and helped to calm his thoughts. Jace had always loved the wintertime. It made for rough living on the streets, but it was also the time of year when snow would fall, and the other street kids would play in the snow ¨C the only free entertainment left unmonopolized. He vividly recalled taking Chroma out for her first snow day and using the slightly green tinged, toxic-smog imbued snow to make a fort. This snow was clean, pristine, and white. Jace could smell the crispness of the air. I wish I could bring you here, Chroma, he thought. You¡¯d love this. He sighed and continued his trek to the next Complex, pausing for just a moment as the information scrolled across his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 10.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Razor Clan Kobolds.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Rare (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> As soon as Jace stepped past some invisible barrier, huts appeared. They were made of mud that had been piled high, and the rushes and plants that he had seen across the tundra had been ripped up and used as a roof of sorts. There was a bonfire fueled by some foul-smelling substance that made Jace¡¯s nose wrinkle. The creatures dancing around the fire were squat ¨C maybe three feet at the tallest ¨C with bulging heads, tufts of white fur around their body, and dressed in tribal leathers. They were chanting and shouting ¨C but the words overlapped and Jace could not hear them. Ollie flew alongside him, ¡°Ah, kobolds. They are the fodder of the magic worlds. Seriously, on most magic worlds they are routinely hunted. Ignore their tribal nature, they aren¡¯t a species on the same level as people are. More like¡­monkeys.¡± ¡°What¡¯s a monkey?¡± Jace asked. His speech drew the attention of the mob, and they shrieked before charging him. All save two at the back, who pulled out wooden sticks which began to crackle with orange energy. ¡°Crap,¡± Ollie muttered as the first two reached him. Jace ducked the first blow from the one on the left who was missing an eye. Their claws looked to be razor-sharp, as were their large fangs that extended past their lower jaw. He sliced it with the sword and cut into its torso. The viscous, grey blood splashed into the air and emitted steam from the temperature difference. He stepped back and parried the next one¡¯s claw strike, riposting as he stabbed it through the neck and kicked it away. This is easy, he thought. The bright, orange glow continued to build in the back, behind the ones that Jace was occupied with. That¡¯s a problem, he thought. Planting his hand on the ground, he thought, Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3). Detonate. The black sphere appeared under his hand an exploded with the slight, clear shockwave. The kobolds that were rushing to Jace began tumbling by him in the air. He slashed left and right, carving through them as they went flying past. Extending his Wirecannon Arm, he shot the grapnel out. It impaled the one with the stick on the right, and the creature went limp before Jace¡¯s line retracted. The last kobolds staff began to glow even brighter, and the creature leveled it at Jace. ¡°Ollie! What¡¯s the activation phrase for the anti-magi-¡± ¡°Arbiter¡¯s Anathema!¡± Arbiter¡¯s Anathema, Jace thought as he leveled his left arm, holding the sword, at the creature. The gold, arcane scrollwork along the arm¡¯s length illuminated with a soft glow before a stream of black and gold cascaded in multitudinous ribbons of the two colors that wrapped around the orange glow. The glow ceased instantly, and the creature made a yipping nose as it shook the staff. Jace used the moment to fire his grapnel again, piercing that one¡¯s skull. The bodies vanished as Jace¡¯s Wirecannon Arm retracted. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay the Razor Clan Kobolds.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Rare (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Let¡¯s use that to give my armor, I don¡¯t know, cold resistance? And dust the corpses. And I¡¯ve still got a Skill Evolution. Let¡¯s use that on Dark Energy Mine.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 250] <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Rare (Equipment Augmentation).] [Target Equipment: (Medium) Devastation Armor.] [Augmenting.] [Result: (Medium / Snowguard) Devastation Armor.] [Description: The Snowguard (Equipment Augmentation) provides resistance to cold, ice, and other effects of a similar nature. Additionally, ensures comfort in any cold environment.] <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Rare (Skill Evolution).] [Applying to Skill.] [Skill Name: Dark Energy Mine.] [Evolution Name: Distant.] [Effect: The mine can be placed anywhere within line of sight, up to 50 ft. away.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace grinned, ¡°Excellent,¡± he stated as the armor he was wearing surged with glittering starlight before fading. The armored clothing he was wearing had a slight, white hue. Already he felt the temperature difference, as he was a little cool earlier, but now felt like he was back in bed in the apartment. Ollie flew around him and gave him a thumbs up, ¡°Looking spiffy!¡± Jace walked up to the golden podium and snagged the dungeon core, tossing it into his backpack. ¡°One more before we hit the glacier terrain.¡±
Flosho had finished setting up his little snow-cave. He had not been in such an environment before, but his fur and his gear kept him plenty warm. He was surprised at how toasty the small cave got. ¡°Ribbit.¡± ¡°Oh, right. A hole to let the bad air out.¡± He dug up with his paws and made a hole in the roof. The room chilled very slightly. His new hideout had a perfect vantage point of the World Pillar. Based on his knowledge of dungeons, he knew that he would have to enter the area as well to see what was happening. Game plan. Wait until he gets here and enters the area. Wait a minute. Then, go in. If he¡¯s injured or tired, try to kill him. If he¡¯s still fighting, rush to the World Pillar and then get out. His Lightning Bolt Skill was one that was uncapped ¨C he could dump Ranks into it endlessly. And he had spent every single Skill Evolution on the ability. Waving his wand, he pointed it at the pillar and used his Lightning Bolt (Rank 47) [Sparkmine] until all his energy was spent. He shifted in the snow and got comfy as he curled himself up. Trap set. All I need to do is wait. Even if he is resistant to lightning, he¡¯s not immune. Enough damage stocked up in a [Sparkmine] should kill him. He smiled as he purred himself to sleep.? Chapter 42 – A creature from legend
Jace kept trekking across the tundra. He was making great time ¨C Day 3 wasn¡¯t even close to being over. At this rate, I¡¯ll get to the Glacier and maybe crack out another Complex or two before calling it a night. He smirked. And even then, I just need the hour of rest. A screen appeared in his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Xera here. I am almost done coordinating our plans with the Star Council. When you achieve Tier 3, you will be grouped up with two Aspirants you have interacted with. Greg Bhastal, and Quinn Cipher.] [I saw that you interacted with a World Pillar. Exciting stuff. I have done a bit of digging and found the location of other World Pillars. One is in the glacier tile you are heading towards, and there is one in the caldera of that volcano tile. There is a path to get into the caldera and not die; but I would advise using an Equipment Augmentation Boon to make your gear heat-resistant. The World Pillar for aeromancy has already been claimed and is inert for this ten-year cycle.] [Sadly, I¡¯m running low on resources. I can¡¯t give you easy Quests to complete. So, keep doing those Complexes and getting the System provided rewards.] [Take care, stay safe.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace smiled and focused on the text box. Thanks for checking in. And thank you again for the apartment. It means¡­so much to me. I¡¯ll be careful, and try to get the¡­I guess fire pillar? And this ice one, for sure. He paused for a moment, There¡¯s an Aspirant who is stealing from and killing other Aspirants. I was about to kill him, but he got away. It got me thinking¡­so far, I¡¯ve only killed people who deserved it, or I did it in self-defense. Those Black Hole guys, that icy-hammer lady¡­but I¡¯m going to end up having to deal with something that isn¡¯t justified, aren¡¯t I? ¡°Send.¡± He kept walking towards the next Complex, and a response came up. <<<<<>>>>> [Probably. In the grand scheme of the whole universe, for the good of The Cosmic System, you should not worry about the moral issues. If someone dies as a result of your actions as you endeavor to maintain the System? It is a necessary and acceptable loss. You don¡¯t have to go out of your way to kill people, of course. But¡­it is inevitable that you will.] [I know that¡¯s not what you wanted to read. It is the reality of the situation. I promise you; I won¡¯t send you off to just kill randomly. Every task I set in front of you as my Signer is a necessity. I care for you and your well-being. Including your mental health. If you ever need a break, or want someone to talk to, just tell me.] [Take care of yourself out there. I have duties to attend to.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace sighed and kept trudging along. Ollie flew alongside him, ¡°Want to talk about it?¡± ¡°Not really,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°I¡¯ve killed¡­four people in my life?¡± He paused and shook his head, ¡°But Xera is right. Plus, in the end, I only have one real goal. Being in the Dark Between Stars is just a means to an end for me.¡± ¡°Tier 10.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°And bringing Chroma back. I¡¯ll do anything to get her back.¡± ¡°Anything?¡± That gave Jace pause. I¡­I don¡¯t know. Growing up how he did, he was taught to keep in a tight-knit community and keep trust with his people. Street folk. Everyone else? Leave them alone and they leave you alone. That was part of the lifestyle. But¡­he did not know the answer. Were there any hard limits on what he would do to achieve his goal? <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 12.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Razor Clan Kobolds.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Rare (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Easy enough,¡± Jace muttered as he strode forward, blade blazing and shield ready to go, happy for the distraction from his thoughts.
Flosho woke up, scanned the sky above, and resumed his activity that he had repeated over the past several hours. Consistently using his [Sparkmine] evolved Lightning Bolt on the ground in front of the World Pillar. At this point, he had stacked up over twenty of the effects. If he¡¯s smart, he¡¯ll fight the creature, kill it, and then go for the World Pillar. It zaps him, I go in, take his stuff, and get the power for myself. Plus, all those dungeon cores he has. He chuckled as he retreated, exhausted once again, into the recesses of his small hole in the snow. ¡°Ribbit,¡± his Wayfinder floated in front of him. ¡°Well, of course I¡¯ll survive. I am not going to leave this cave until we hear the enormous kaboom of all those [Sparkmine]s going off.¡±
Jace backpedaled and slashed horizontally. These kobolds had spears ¨C and were using their reach to keep him back as the casters in the back brandished their staves and charged up spells. Well, time to try this out. Dark Energy Beam (Rank 1). A beam of grey, purple-tinged energy lanced from just above his right shoulder, dashing out and drilling a hole through one of the caster¡¯s heads. It instantly killed the creature, and Jace fell to a knee as the kobold collapsed. Crap! The spear users took that chance to step in and stab at him. He was able to get his sword in the way of one, but the other one pierced forward and hit his Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3). The drain on his energy was immediately noticeable, and he stumbled forward. Damnit. Drop the Shield. The barrier faded, and he was able to slice at the one that had hit him. The creature danced away ¨C but Jace had nicked it. Enough that the crimson miasma began to spread. ¡°Dodge roll!¡± Ollie shouted. Jace rolled to his left as a beam of bright, orange energy arced from the caster in the back. But the beam unexpectedly altered course and slammed into his back. Jace felt an intense warmth ¨C but his new armor took the hit and dispersed the heat. Coming out of the roll, he sliced at and managed to nick the second spear kobold to inflict the bleed effect. The two spear users backed off and began shrieking as they tried to roll to put out the [Rending] effect. Their efforts were fruitless, Jace knew, and so he took heavy, tired steps to the caster that prepared another shot. He closed the distance before the spell was ready to go off and took the monster¡¯s head clean off. Turning around, he waited for the spear users to expire. They did after a few moments, and the golden pillar appeared just in front of him. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay the Razor Clan Kobolds.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Rare (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> He grabbed the golden orb and added it to his backpack. ¡°Let¡¯s use that (Equipment Augmentation) Boon on my armor. Give it the heat resistance just like it has the cold stuff now. And Dust them.¡± ¡°You got it!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 300] <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Rare (Equipment Augmentation).] [Target Equipment: (Medium / Snowguard) Devastation Armor.] [Augmenting.] [Result: (Medium / Snowguard / Burnguard) Devastation Armor.] [Description: The Burnguard (Equipment Augmentation) provides resistance to heat, fire, and other effects of a similar nature. Additionally, ensures comfort in any warm environment.] <<<<<>>>>> His armor shimmered and rippled briefly before the scales became a mix of white and black coloration. ¡°That¡¯s pretty cool,¡± Jace stated. ¡°I think you mean it¡¯s ¡®hot¡¯,¡± Ollie said with a slight chuckle. ¡°I think another hour in the tent, and then we tackle that glacier.¡± He began setting up the tent. ¡°How much Stardust are we sitting at?¡± ¡°2100 currently,¡± Ollie replied as he scanned the environment around them. ¡°Want to level up?¡± ¡°Yeah. It looks like the more unique tiles are more difficult than the general ones. Let¡¯s dump them into Dark Energy Beam.¡± ¡°You got it!¡± Ollie sprinkled the Stardust down onto Jace¡¯s head.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 39] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3), Dark Matter Dart [Exploding] (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3) [Distant], Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10), Dark Energy Beam (Rank 10), Starfire Stride (1/day), Arbiter''s Anathema (1/day), Archmage Geomancy (1/day) Stardust: 100 Equipment: Swordmage blade, (Medium / Snowguard / Burnguard) Devastation Armor, Wirecannon Arm, Anathema Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, (Heavy) Venture Pack, survival meals (x36), enhanced canteen, optimized medical kit, flint bar, flashlight, Omnitech prosthetic repair module (x3 charges), (Restful) Wildercloth tent, Devilsram wool bedroll Boons: x4 Common (Equipment), Common (Information), Uncommon (Information) <<<<<>>>>> Dark Energy Beam (Rank 9) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (32 in. diameter) Dark Energy Beam (Rank 10) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (36 in. diameter) <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Bigger beam. Nice.¡± ¡°Yup! It is one of those Skills that can have unlimited Ranks invested. It just gets bigger and bigger.¡± It¡¯s a nice trump card to have, just being able to blast a huge hole in anything and disintegrate it, Jace thought as he finished setting up the tent. I¡¯m almost a quarter of the way to Tier 10. Crawling into the tent, he got a little message from Shhiv. <<<<<>>>>> [Hey there! I just finished my shift. How you holding up?] <<<<<>>>>> I¡¯m doing well, thanks, Jace thought as he focused on the text box. It¡¯s going really well so far. I¡¯m getting strong, fast. About to sleep again. I got a neat tent that causes time to pass way faster when I¡¯m asleep. ¡°Send.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Well, isn¡¯t that handy? Think about how much time we could spend between the sheets if we could take a small power nap in between rounds?¡±] <<<<<>>>>> Jace chuckled and continued messaging back and forth with her for a few minutes before bidding her goodnight and closing his eyes, the edges of a smile gracing his face. ¡°Hey, you know I can read all of your messages, right?¡± Ollie asked. ¡°So can Xera.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± Jace replied keeping his eyes closed and his grin plastered on his face. ¡°I¡¯m enjoying this.¡±
Flosho was getting impatient. Hours were passing. Where is he? He had stopped putting down mines after this last round. This is taking way too long. What if he¡¯s just clearing the whole tundra? Glancing over at the map next to his Wayfinder, back towards the rear of the hiding-hole, he saw that the number had stayed stable. A crunching noise came from outside. Peering out and focusing his eyes, he spotted the figure jogging along the snow and ice at an incredibly fast clip. The black hair, the¡­much fancier armor? Damn. He got (Equipment Augmentation) Boons. Flosho held his wand at the ready as he watched the figure pause a few feet away from the Complex entrance. Alright. A little longer of a wait.
Jace saw the World Pillar before him. A massive, grey edifice towering up into the sky. The language on it was glowing faintly. ¡°There¡¯s a Complex nearby. Could it be around the pillar?¡± ¡°Possible.¡± ¡°Use a Common (Information) Boon to get the precise map like the last tile.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Common (Information).] [Query: Complex location on glacier tile.] [Answer: See Wayfinder map for updated information.] <<<<<>>>>> Ollie threw his paws up and the starry, blue map appeared. ¡°Yup, we are just about to enter it.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± I don¡¯t have Starfire Stride or Arbiter¡¯s Anathema available, he thought. So. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], and Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2). His sword blazed with crimson fury as the shield manifested on his Wirecannon Arm. ¡°Here we go.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 1.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Defeat the World Pillar Guardian.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Why does this one have a guardian, but the earth one didn¡¯t?¡± Jace asked. ¡°I am not sure, perhaps because this is a more hazardous tile,¡± Ollie replied as he began diving into and out of snowdrifts. ¡°Uh-oh.¡± He flew over to Jace and wrapped around his neck. ¡°Don¡¯t move.¡± Jace froze in place. ¡°What?¡± he asked. ¡°Shh! It could hear you!¡± Ollie pointed at the snowdrift, and Jace squinted his eyes. I don¡¯t see any- his eyes went wide as he saw a weird, slightly off-white colored patch of snow. But it wasn¡¯t a patch. It was an enormous scale. ¡°It is a big creature,¡± Ollie muttered. The scale moved slightly, and the sheer size of the creature finally clicked for Jace as he saw a massive, truck-sized head lift itself out of a snow drift and look in his direction. He had limited access to the Webnet at the orphanage, and didn¡¯t know much about animals ¨C but this large crocodile-thing was enormous. ¡°It is a dragon!¡± Ollie whispered. ¡°The strongest entity naturally occurring on Nihilethelea.¡± Jace struggled to swallow down the knot in his throat as the creature slowly stood up and shook its large mass. The creature dwarfed him ¨C easily 150 ft. long from mouth to tail. A pair of enormous, whitish-blue wings unfurled from its back as it stood to its full height. And it roared. Jace winced slightly at the sound. Fine. Roar all you want. Dark Energy Beam (Rank 1), he thought as focused on its eye. The beam of grey-purple light lanced out from above his shoulder again¡­and bounced off of it. What? The creature lowered its head and opened its maw. Jace instinctively pulled his whole body behind the tower shield. He could see through the transparent barrier a pure, singular dot of white energy that coalesced within that monstrous maw. ¡°It has Spellproof Scales! Rank 3 and lower offensive Skills will not work against it!¡± Ollie seemingly curled tighter in around his neck. Jace heard the wind howling and saw the blast of ice and rime surge toward him. Digging in his foot claws, he felt the enormous pressure across the tower shield ¨C and the freezing torrent billow around his body thanks to the imposing barricade. He put his whole weight behind it as the outpouring of razor-sharp ice and blisteringly cold snow impacted the barricade. But he persisted. The surge died out, and he barely felt the colt. His shield, however, was layered with rime, and was quite heavy. ¡°It cannot use its Frost Breath Skill more than once per minute.¡± Perfect! Jace dismissed the Dark Matter Shield ¨C not wanting to sacrifice his maneuverability because of the extra heft. ¡°Tell me when its close to recharging that!¡± He dashed to the left as the creature began to move towards him. It swung its tail in a rapid spin towards him, and he jumped over the appendage as he sliced down at it. The blade cut into the scales and spread the purple and crimson miasma¡­very slowly. He could not rely on it to bleed out while he just stayed away. As he landed, he sprinted along the backside of the tail, carving a gash as best he could with his sword. The scales got tougher the closer he got to the center mass, and the blade almost got caught when he was about ten feet from where he made the initial cut. Wrenching it out, he ducked down as a claw went slashing over his head. I need height, he thought. I could get on it. It worked with the Vyrknadine. Curling his legs under him, he jumped up and landed on the dragon. It let out a roar that caused Jace¡¯s head to pulse. Whipping its tail back and forth, it tried to dislodge him. But Jace¡¯s feet-claws were able to get just enough of a purchase to keep him rooted in place. ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere!¡± he shouted as he felt the adrenaline of the fight take over. His blood was pumping and he could hear his heartbeat in his ears. The dragon began flapping its wings, and Jace fired the grapnel at the extended membrane. The surface was strong enough to hold the hook, and he tapped the retract button as he shot up to the flapping appendage. The cool air racing past his face grew even colder the closer he got to the thing¡¯s head ¨C as if just being near those icy, blue eyes caused a drop in temperature. The dragon tried to use its back legs to kick up and claw at him, but Jace swung his body sideways as he ascended to the grapnel point, dodging by scant inches. That was close, he thought as he reached the membrane. The mine won¡¯t do anything, I could use Dark Matter Dart at (Rank 4), or the Dark Energy Beam. He didn¡¯t want to expend that much energy, as the short seconds of fighting was already beginning to wear on him. I¡¯ll just try to get to the hea- The dragon pulled an unexpected move ¨C twisting itself into the air as it flew up. Jace was close enough to the wing to grab it with his hand and keep the grapnel affixed to the membrane. But the spins were jarring and he felt the connective tissue in his shoulder pulling against the prosthetic. Okay. Screw this. He used his sword to slash at the membrane nearby, carving a large gash. Releasing the grapnel line, he fell down. Aiming once more, he pointed it at the top of the World Pillar, shot the grapnel to it, and swung around in a tight circle until he was atop it. ¡°Ollie! Claim it!¡± Ollie popped out of his collar and tapped the pillar. There was a surge of bright, blue light that then soaked into Jace¡¯s arm. <<<<<>>>>> Archmage Hydromancy - Enables a Hydromancy spell of the highest order. <<<<<>>>>> The dragon turned and began to open its mouth. ¡°It has recharged its breath weapon!¡± Ollie shouted as he returned to his spot around Jace¡¯s neck. ¡°I want to pull that dragon down to the ground. Geomancy ¨C activate.¡± A torrent of earth, dirt, and rock surged up, through the glacier, and wrapped itself around the dragon. With a very surprised shriek, it snapped its jaws shut as the rocky embrace dragged it down to crash with a resounding thud on the ground. ¡°Alright!¡± Jace shouted as he planted his grapnel into the pillar and lowered himself. As soon as his feet touched the ground, and he had taken two steps, the world exploded in a blue light. Chapter 43 – An eye for an eye
There was a riotous sound of thunder and an explosive crackle noise that spread across the glacier. Jace was airborne ¨C he wasn¡¯t sure how he got so high up, a few hundred feet, easily. And his body was sore. Not only that, but his limbs were twitching slightly. And not reacting to his commands. ¡°Ollie!¡± he tried to say, but his mouth wouldn¡¯t respond. What the hell is going on? The sky above him began to turn and tumble. He could see the World Pillar, and the ground as he began falling. The enormous dragon was trapped in an earthen grip, roaring and flailing back and forth as it tried to escape its confinement. Crap! Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1)! Detonate! His fall arrested as gravity was removed from him. Ollie chuckled, ¡°Wow! That was close.¡± He looked up at Jace, and his face screwed up in a concerned look. ¡°Jace? You there?¡± ¡°Yes!¡± Jace tried to reply; but his body wasn¡¯t responding at all. ¡°Oh. Oh no,¡± Ollie¡¯s eyes were filled with worry. ¡°That explosion was a bunch of electric traps that all went off at once. I think it shorted out your brain.¡± What? What the hell does that mean? Jace saw the dragon break free of its confines, and it pointed its maw up at him and opened its jaws. The glowing, icy-blue energy began to coalesce. Damnit! I don¡¯t have a choice. Dark Energy Beam (Rank 10)! From the air just above Jace¡¯s shoulder, an enormous beam of grey-purple energy shot out ¨C right into the dragon¡¯s mouth ¨C and bored a hole through its body, down to the ground below. The icy burst was dispersed as the beam tore through space and disintegrated the creature¡¯s mouth, neck, and body that was coiled beneath it. The form shuddered and collapsed into a heap. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Defeat the World Pillar Guardian.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace felt the intense exhaustion and began to fall as his consciousness faded.
Flosho grinned as he saw the dragon die and the floating form of the Aspirant thud into the snow and ice. Now is my chance! He pulled out his knife and ran forward, past the corpse of the dragon and up to the prone figure. He grabbed the man and flipped him over. His whole body was covered in armored clothing ¨C save for a slit near the top of the face, of the cheeks and eyes. Die! He thought as he stabbed down. But, to his surprise, even though he stabbed the right eye and got some depth ¨C the blade stopped a few inches in. Not deep enough to pierce the brain. Some type of metal fluid seeped out of the wound. It wasn¡¯t a killing blow, and even as Flosho put his weight behind the blade ¨C it did not sink any further. The figure screamed out as the sudden trauma woke him up. A grey dot appeared next to him. Flosho tried to dodge. He couldn¡¯t dodge in time. Reality seemed to slow down as he came to a sudden realization, and a slight, grey-purple glow shot towards him. I¡¯m going to die. The world went dark.
Jace screamed out in pain. He reached up to his face and felt something hard sticking out of it. He had the worst headache of his life. Feeling around, he froze as the realization of what had happened hit him. He had been woken up by the searing pain in his right eye, and when he opened the other one, he saw the cat man above him. He had used Dark Energy Beam at its lowest Rank and shot the cat-man through the temple ¨C killing him instantly. But now he felt the handle of what had stabbed him. He felt a chill of fear down his spine as he realized how close he had just come to dying. Pop! Ollie appeared. ¡°Oh, thank the System, you are alive! How do you feel?¡± Jace did not answer, instead scrabbling around inside his bag for the can of medical foam. He pulled it out and fiddled with the nozzle, hands shaking as a dull pain spread through his whole body. The piercing pain was still in his head, and he barely got the device open. Okay. Breathing exercise. Calm down. You need steady hands. He steadied his breathing and felt the shaking start to subside. I¡¯ll lose the ey- no, I¡¯ve lost it already. This is just wound care, now. Remove it. Survive. He held the can in his left hand, and gently gripped the blade with his other. 3¡­2¡­1! He yanked the knife out and let out a scream of pain as he doubled over. Shoving the nozzle into the socket, he pressed the trigger and felt an instant, soothing, cool relief. Some type of built-in painkiller that brought instant relief to his head wound. Fishing into his backpack, he found the medical kit, pulled his hood and mask back, and began dressing the wound. A large patch of clean gauze over the socket, and a bandage wrapped around his head. ¡°You¡­you okay?¡± Ollie whispered. ¡°I¡¯m alive,¡± Jace replied. ¡°He ambushed me.¡± ¡°Laid traps, too,¡± Ollie replied. "They were Skills, not spells - so your Nethal ears did not pick them up." He had a look of relief on his face, ¡°You killed the dragon! That¡¯s something.¡± Jace nodded and laid back in the snow, just breathing in the cool, crisp air. His whole body was incredibly sore ¨C even his prosthetics that he could feel just like they were his original limbs. The impact from the fall wasn¡¯t as bad as it could be, but he saw that his legs were damaged. Reaching into his bag, he fished out the Omnitech prosthetic repair module. The device was a rectangle box, and reading the accompanying instruction manual, he slid one of the tubes from the inside of the box onto his left leg. Tapping the small button on top, he felt a tingling as the device glowed a bright orange before vanishing. The leg was fully repaired. That¡¯s one charge. He used another for his other leg. That means just one charge left. Standing up, he looked around and saw his sword had landed point-first in the snow nearby. He walked over and grabbed it, sheathed it, and then looked down at the cat-man. ¡°Dust him,¡± he ordered. ¡°And the dragon,¡± he muttered, looking over at the nearby, colossal corpse. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 1520] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Done!¡± Ollie shouted as he swam around. ¡°That puts you at 1620 Stardust and 19 dungeon cores.¡±If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Jace sighed and nodded, scooping up the rest of his gear and packing it away inside the backpack. ¡°I survived.¡± I can¡¯t believe I lived through a stab to the eye. That guy must have been really weak. ¡°You did. Good job!¡± That was close, Jace thought. He replayed the combat with the dragon through his head. I didn¡¯t make any errors. I avoided all damage and was handily winning. It was that trap that screwed me over. ¡°I thought I was highly resistant to electricity,¡± Jace stated as he glanced at Ollie. ¡°You are. If you had Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) active, then you would not have been affected at all. But your base form only has Dark Matter augmenting it. You are still vulnerable to massive amounts of electricity.¡± ¡°And you said it shorted out my brain?¡± ¡°Well, it probably just made it so that your brain could not contact your body parts. You were able to use Skills, so you did not have your mind fried.¡± Jace rubbed the bandage over his missing eye, ¡°I could use an Equipment Boon that gives me a new eye. I have Common rarity ones, right?¡± ¡°Yup! But you should hold out until you have one of a higher rarity. You have that CIF stuff inside you, and I bet you could get an eye that lets you see traps.¡± Jace nodded and went over to the World Pillar, standing a few feet away from it. ¡°Can you see any more of those mines?¡± ¡°Oh, the Aspirant is dead. Any that were here are gone now. Skills cannot persist past the death of the Aspirant or Ascendant who used them.¡± Jace rummaged in his bag, set up the tent against the pillar, and right after buttoning it back up passed out from the exhaustion and pain.
Shhiv finished her fifth rep of a bench press at her set of home gym equipment. Wiping the sweat from her brow, she re-racked the weights and prepared to go and hit the squat rack. But she stopped when she received a notification on her cosmopanel. Scrolling through, her breath caught in her throat. What?! How¡¯d he get so badly injured?! Ollie had given her limited access to Jace¡¯s information within The Cosmic System, and there were plenty of firewalls put up by some person who went by X. But, Shhiv had enough access to the records to know when injuries happened and had set up alerts for when they did happen. He had just suffered a grim injury. She tapped through to her account page and held the cosmopanel over her Civilian symbol. <<<<<>>>>> Boons: x33 Common (Variable) <<<<<>>>>> Right. I can convert 27 of those into 1 Epic rarity, and then assign an easy Quest. She tapped away at her cosmopanel and put in a simple Quest that Jace could complete quickly. That leaves me with 6, she thought. She would get 1 Common Boon every month she kept working in The Cosmic System, in addition to her Stardust salary. It¡¯ll be worth it. He needs to be able to see. Variable Boons were able to turn into any type of Boon, based upon the user¡¯s desire. She had swapped them to Equipment. That should get him a nice prosthetic replacement, she thought. She set the cosmopanel down and went to set up the squat rack. But she hesitated. She felt a pit in her stomach and was overcome with worry and anxiety. Don¡¯t die out there. We just made a connection. You better not die on me.
<<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Pack up your camp.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: Shhiv-zal <3.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace woke up to the notification message. His head was pulsing with pain, and he rummaged inside the medkit, found some potent painkillers, and popped a few of them into his mouth. Within seconds they began to kick in. Ollie reappeared with his pop. ¡°That quest? Shhiv sent it. She must be really into you.¡± Jace smiled and began to pack up. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Pack up your camp.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: Shhiv-zal <3.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Let¡¯s use that to get an eye. Something that lets me see¡­magic? Skills? Something that lets me analyze items in the environment?¡± ¡°You got it!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Equipment).] [Manifesting.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace gasped in pain despite the potent painkillers. He held his head in his hands as a pulsing headache spread throughout his skull, threatening to rip it apart. But just as quickly as it started, it faded. Pulling his hands away, he blinked a few times and ripped off the bandage. His vision was weird. Keeping his right eye shut, he saw as he normally saw things. The snow was white and grey in some places, the sky above was silvery and gold intertwined, and the pillar behind him was grey. Opening his right eye, he could see in much greater detail. He could see the separate crystals of ice composing a bank of snow. The glittering, shimmering display showing a fountain of fractal shapes that were perfect in their intersecting, geometric beauty. It was a little disorienting, and he found himself instinctively shutting his left eye in favor of the prosthetic right eye. I should get two of these. This is way better than regular sight. ¡°All-Seeing Dragon''s Eye,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°It has enhanced perception ¨C much like a pair of binoculars. Plus, it can see magic. Since The Cosmic System merges magic, technology, and magitech, you will be able to see any Skill ¨C even if it is invisible.¡± Jace looked out across the landscape. The glacier where this World Pillar was located was tied for the highest point on this world, and he stared in disbelief at his increased visual acuity. He could spot the groups of Aspirants roaming what must be hundreds of miles in the distance. Even making out their appearances. This is insane! He cracked a grin. ¡°Pull up a message to Shhiv.¡± The box showed up. Thank you. When I get back, I¡¯m going to rock your world. ¡°Send.¡± He felt full of energy from his restful sleep, and the day was only about halfway over. ¡°We have more dungeons to clear up here,¡± he stated with confidence. ¡°Let¡¯s also use that Skill Evolution.¡± ¡°What do you want to improve?¡± ¡°Swordmage Stance.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Skill Evolution)] [Applying to Skill.] [Skill Name: Swordmage Stance.] [Evolution Name: Astral Annihilator.] [Effect: The user¡¯s bladed weapon becomes capable of sundering Skills.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°That is handy,¡± Ollie said as he flew around Jace¡¯s head. ¡°If you do get more Skill Evolutions for Swordmage Stance, you will have to ¡®toggle¡¯ between them by thinking or saying the new prefix-version. For now, though, it will default to the Astral Annihilator, since that is the only Evolution you have for it.¡± Jace took a deep breath. ¡°Let¡¯s go. We have more dungeons up here to clear out.¡± Chapter 44 – A question of morality
Jace crunched his way across the ice and snow. Ollie stayed curled up around his neck. The sound of Jace¡¯s foot-claws was the only noise other than the whistling, whipping wind. ¡°How are Wayfinders made?¡± Jace asked to pass the time. ¡°We are programmed! An Artificial Intelligence program. We then get put into a variety of simulations that help us shape our personality. Finally, we emerge in our default ¡®blob¡¯ form in the Starlit Sea. Once we get an Aspirant, we take on our new shape.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Why is mine a river otter? You were a bit dismissive the last time I asked.¡± ¡°I do not know if I am being honest,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°I just know that it is something to do with the animal most suited to your personality.¡± ¡°Tell me more about them,¡± Jace stated as he began a descent into an icy crevasse, shoving his prosthetic fingers into the wall while his feet made their own footholds. ¡°They are generally friendly, playful, and intelligent. Plus, they are social creatures in groups. They can be mean and defensive, and some are very territorial loners.¡± Jace smirked as he reached the bottom of the crevasse and drew his sword. That sounds a little like me, he thought. He had really enjoyed his time playing with the other street kids, and reignited that joy of play when he took Chroma under his wing. I¡¯m not sure about the intelligent part. I didn¡¯t get much schooling. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 2.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Frost Giants.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2). Jace¡¯s sword thrummed with energy, and there was a slight, shimmering blue glow to it now from the new Swordmage Stance Evolution. Ollie flew up from around his neck. ¡°Frost Giants? Oooh, exciting! They are big, slow, and hit hard. Plus, they are very, very durable.¡± Jace heard a dull thud from in front of him where the crevasse opened into an icy cavern. Taking cautious steps forward, his eyes shifted to the purple hue. He saw the two, hulking creatures ¨C hunched over in this small space. Oh, that¡¯s pathetic, he thought as he saw them smushed into this area. ¡°Is this a joke?¡± Jace asked. The creatures saw him, roared, and began crawling towards him on hands and knees. Ollie frowned and stroked his whiskers, ¡°That is strange. Normally, a Complex is suited to the inhabitants. It could be because Double-A forced these Complexes into the world. My best guess is that these two were living here on the glacier ¨C maybe this is their home? And when Double-A used whatever spell or Skill to create the dungeons, they became trapped in here? That is my best guess.¡± Well, this should be easy, then. Jace walked forward, and deftly dodged the one on his right that tried to grab at him. He reached out with the blade, cutting into the flesh on the back of the hand as the purple and crimson miasma spread. The one on the left did the same, and he nicked it as well. Backing off, he stood at the narrowest part of the crevasse and waited for the [Rending] effect to finish them off. ¡°That won¡¯t work,¡± Ollie muttered. ¡°Look close at the crimson nebula.¡± Jace focused his vision, shutting his left eye to zoom in with his right eye and not become disoriented. He saw that the crimson miasma was stuck in a tug-of-war. ¡°Can they regenerate?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Yup! Looks like you need to do more damage. Probably the brain.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°I don¡¯t want to risk injury this close. Let¡¯s just make this easy. Dark Energy Beam (Rank 1).¡± The grey-purple dot shot from next to him and slammed into the one on the right, piercing through the top of the head and shooting out the back. The creature collapsed in a heap. The one on the other side roared and went to its fallen ally, holding it close to himself. Jace felt his heart sink. Were they¡­ ¡°Ollie, are giants like people?¡± ¡°Technically no. They are just below the threshold for being counted as a person in The Cosmic System.¡± Jace grit his teeth and fired off another Beam at Rank 1 at the one who was covering its ally, dropping it instantly. He felt like he had sprinted a mile straight, and leaned against the icy wall as he took in shuddering breath. ¡°This¡­Archmage¡­he¡¯s evil, isn¡¯t he?¡± Ollie shrugged, ¡°Evil, good, morality is made by those with power.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay the Frost Giants.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> That¡¯s not right, Jace thought. Throughout his whole life, he had felt a sense of right and wrong. Stealing? To survive, and only from the corpos and gangs. But from other street folk? Never. Violence? If necessary to survive, but not just for no reason at all. Even lying was frowned upon in the community he grew up with. Only lying to outsiders was allowed. And we weren¡¯t the ones in power. So how the hell did we make moralities? Jace didn¡¯t voice his concerns to Ollie. He walked forward, ¡°Dust them, please.¡± He also snagged the golden dungeon core off of the pedestal that had appeared a few dozen feet in front of him. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 1000.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°I want to level up. What are we at?¡± ¡°2620 Stardust,¡± Ollie replied with a look of concern on his face. ¡°What?¡± Jace asked as the otter regarded him, floating silently in front of the Aspirant. ¡°Are you troubled by my statement? Your face looks grumpy.¡± ¡°Kind of,¡± Jace replied as he made his way to the crevasse and grappled his way up and out. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­that whole morality statement you made. People in power were greedy, corpo assholes. And I still have a sense of right and wrong.¡±Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. ¡°Most species do. It is part of your biology. Species that evolved to a level of sapience were already or became social creatures. That requires an inherent level of trust, and so your brains evolved to have a sense of right and wrong that would foster community and trust. Not all species that reach sapience.¡± Jace trudged towards the next Complex. I¡­suppose that makes sense. I don¡¯t know nearly as much as Ollie does about human bodies. ¡°So, my brain is hardwired with morals?¡± ¡°Kind of. Societal shaping also has an impact. It is a complex subject.¡± Ollie¡¯s demeanor shifted to his upbeat mode as he changed the subject. ¡°Oh! You wanted to level up. What Skills do you want?¡± Right. There¡¯s no point to talking about morality. These creatures in Complexes aren¡¯t people. He took stock of his current set of Skills. I have ranged options; I have a trap option. I¡¯m good in melee, and I have a way to make myself sneakier. What am I missing to give myself a well-rounded set of Skills? He wracked his brain but couldn¡¯t think of any new Skills¡­except, ¡°Is there a way for Dark Matter to heal me?¡± ¡°We¡¯ll find out!¡± <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 39] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) [Astral Annihilator], Dark Matter Dart [Exploding] (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3) [Distant], Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10), Dark Energy Beam (Rank 10), Dark Matter Mending (Rank 2), Starfire Stride (1/day), Arbiter''s Anathema (1/day), Archmage Geomancy (1/day), Archmage Hydromancy (1/day) Stardust: 620 Equipment: Swordmage blade, (Medium / Snowguard / Burnguard) Devastation Armor, Wirecannon Arm, Anathema Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, All-Seeing Dragon''s Eye, (Heavy) Venture Pack, survival meals (x34), enhanced canteen, optimized medical kit, flint bar, flashlight, Omnitech prosthetic repair module (x1 charges), (Restful) Wildercloth tent, Devilsram wool bedroll Boons: x4 Common (Equipment), Common (Information), Uncommon (Information), Epic (Skill Evolution) <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Mending (Rank 1) - The user cures a single injury or affliction on themselves. Dark Matter Mending (Rank 2) - The user cures a single injury and affliction on themselves. <<<<<>>>>> That would¡¯ve been useful when I lost my eye, Jace thought. ¡°Oh, it won¡¯t regenerate missing limbs or the like. That would need a Skill Evolution,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°Don¡¯t we have one of those?¡± ¡°We do.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s use it.¡± ¡°You got it!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Skill Evolution).] [Applying to Skill.] [Skill Name: Dark Matter Mending.] [Evolution Name: Vampiric.] [Effect: The user may use harm inflicted upon others as the energy source for this Skill.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°That¡¯s cool,¡± Jace said. ¡°That, combined with [Rending] on the blade means that I could heal myself over and over during a fight, right?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie¡¯s tail wagged with enthusiasm. ¡°This makes you way harder to kill as long as you have something to hurt.¡± Jace cracked a smile, ¡°Eight more dungeons in this tile.¡±
Xera sipped her morning coffee. The drink from Earth had grown on her, and she savored the bitter flavor offset by just a hint of something called a ¡®creamer¡¯ ¨C which to her made little sense. Why not just call it cream? She thought as she took another sip. The Cosmic System was functioning well today. Jace was progressing nicely ¨C despite his injury recently ¨C and was well on his way to Tier 3. A screen opened next to her. An alert she had set up. It drew her gaze immediately, and she devoted her full attention to the intercepted communication from Deckard Stonewall, the leader of the Nebula Alliance. Scanning the message led to her scowling. That bastard! Xera, for a moment, panicked. The Nebula Alliance was making a move on Earth that her calculations of a worst -case scenario showed as not happening for a month at least. She pulled up a communication with her temporary ally, ensuring that her shroud was active. It was a piece of magitech she had developed ¨C it made her a dark silhouette with indiscernible features and a warped voice. Perfect anonymity. The calm, gentle face of Star Father, leader of the Star Council faction, appeared on her screen. ¡°Ah, X. To what do I owe the pleasure of this spontaneous communique?¡± he asked with a broad grin just barely hidden behind his bushy beard. ¡°We have a problem. Deckard is on the move.¡± His eyes narrowed and the frown turned upside down into a scowl that matched her own. ¡°When?¡± ¡°Two days.¡± ¡°Damnit!¡± he slammed his desk and there was an explosion ¨C like a supernova in miniature form ¨C just under his fists that left a blasted, burned desk underneath. ¡°We had a month!¡± ¡°We did. He must have made a very enticing offer to one of the large governments.¡± ¡°What is our workaround?¡± Star Father asked as he regained his composure and straightened in his seat. ¡°I am going to cause a fluctuation at the portals. I¡¯m going to lock down Earth.¡± His jaw went slack, ¡°You¡­you have that power?¡± She nodded, ¡°Your Ascendants and other agents on Earth will be trapped there until I re-open the portals.¡± But it¡¯s going to cause a bit of a mess. She sighed. I¡¯m going to be busy in the meantime, coming up with all the bypasses and rerouting connections. ¡°Make sure you tell The Negotiator. He has a few Signers there.¡± Xera nodded at the suggestion. The Negotiator was the Ascendant who facilitated the Planetary Independence Pact and was her main point of contact who could then contact the rest of the Ascendants who had control over their singular world. ¡°I will do so.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll tell my Signer and her bodyguard to speed things up. You need to tell your agent to get a move on.¡± ¡°He¡¯s doing The Dungeon Run. They are on Day 3 out of 10.¡± Star Father nodded curtly, ¡°Give me a few hours to notify my agents. I¡¯ll send you a message when I¡¯m ready for you to cut off access to Earth.¡± Xera nodded and shut off the video connection. This will adversely affect the Civilians who may be coming or going. But I don¡¯t have a choice. Jace isn¡¯t ready for a Tier 2 world with firearms. He needs to be Tier 3 so that he won¡¯t be instantly killed by a lucky shot. She pulled up a message screen to Ollie and advised him of the development. <<<<<>>>>> [Got it! We are making good progress. At level 39 out of 50, and then we will have to hold off until we are done with The Dungeon Run for any higher levels, so we don¡¯t get kicked out by Double-A.] <<<<<>>>>> She typed off a response wishing the otter luck and sat down in her large chair. ¡°Josie, start diverting energy from sectors 8AJ, 4RP, and L79. Those worlds can afford a lesser connection to The Cosmic Corridor for a few weeks.¡± Chapter 45 – Completing Complexes
Jace had his sword out and ready, coated with the Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], along with his Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2), as he entered the area of another Complex. It was a few hours until sunset, and he wanted to try to just use his sword and shield to save on energy. The faster I clear complexes up here, the faster I can move onto that volcano tile and get to the World Pillar. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic system as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 1.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Winter Wyvern.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> This glacier tile is really giving me good rewards, he thought. Epic rarity Boons for all the dungeons. He looked around the wide-open space. ¡°No sign of it,¡± he muttered. Ollie scanned the area as well, keeping an eye on his backside. ¡°Look up.¡± Jace did so and spotted a distant dot that began to get larger. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s flying.¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°Wyvern. A scaled, lizard-like entity with wings and back legs. A close cousin to the dragon, considered to be dumber. They have a tail with a stinger.¡± Jace stood ready and kept his shield pointed up at the coming foe. It got closer and began to beat its wings to slow its descent. It shifted the angle of its approach making a swooping motion towards him. As it flew overhead, its tail whipped down to try and pierce the ¨C to it ¨C unshielded Jace. But his shield intercepted the stabbing sting, and Jace swung back ¨C scoring a hit as the crimson and purple miasma began to spread. The creature roared in pain or frustration as it went sailing overhead and circled around for another pass. This is too easy, Jace thought. Invisible gear is such an unfair advantage against dumb creatures like this. He repeated the same process, intercepting the stinger¡¯s stab and scoring another slash. As that second pass ended, the creature flapped rapidly and turned in mid-air, landing on the ground and giving Jace his first good look at the monster. It was easily fifteen feet tall from foot to top of the head. The outside was a tough, leathery, light-grey hide with scales of dull-white that covered vital areas ¨C chest, neck, underbelly. And that miasmic glow was spreading up the hide. The creature began moving forward, lashing out with its enormous maw. Sidestepping the blow was easy enough, as Jace¡¯s Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) guided his body to move out of the way in a graceful sidestep. Lashing out with the sword, he struck a blow across the thing¡¯s snout ¨C spreading the miasma from both ends. The creature reared back, snarled, and staggered. It lunged at him again, but was much less coordinated as the [Rending] had affected the head and presumably the brain. He scored another slash across the snout, and the red spread in a more dull color. Now let¡¯s try out this new Skill. Dark Matter Mending (Rank 2) [Vampiric]. Jace felt a dull warmth suffusing his body. The slight soreness from his earlier fall against the dragon began to be soothed away. Keeping his distance from the wyvern, he felt the heat continue as the monster tried to clamber towards him; stumbling as the crimson glow of the bleed and the purple cloud of the slowing effect reached the monster¡¯s legs. After about ten seconds, the creature fell to the ground, and the golden pillar with the dungeon core appeared. Jace snatched it, ¡°Dust it,¡± Jace instructed. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 300] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay the Winter Wyvern.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Well done!¡± Ollie shouted as he swam through the air above Jace. ¡°7 more dungeons on this glacier tile.¡± Jace glanced up at the sky above, ¡°How long until nightfall?¡± ¡°Five hours,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°And most of the other Aspirants will be going to bed in all likelihood.¡± And I can keep going. Just quick power naps in the tent, and I can clear this whole mountain! Jace felt a surge of energy. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s go to the next one!¡± Ollie flew in front of him with the map, and Jace took off at a sprint over the ice and snow.
¡°Good job!¡± Renlas shouted as he dismissed his Singularity Bomb (Rank 1). The waterlogged wetland stopped surging in the direction of the Black Hole Aspirant¡¯s Skill. ¡°Let¡¯s turn these into Stardust.¡± Walking over to the golden pillar, he snagged the orb. ¡°Bellor, it¡¯s your turn!¡± he tossed the orb to his armored ally.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. Bellor caught the orb and stowed it in his hip pouch. The duo were both in the process of turning the corpses into Stardust. ¡°Good,¡± Bellor replied. ¡°Where next?¡± ¡°Hmm. Map?¡± Renlas asked. Right, no Wayfinder. He patched through a System request, and a few minutes later one of the Conclave''s operatives sent him the requested item. ¡°Hmm. Nothing close by anymore.¡± He looked over at Bellor, his armored companion cleaning off his large spear. ¡°What do you say to ascending to that glacier?¡± ¡°If we clear some dungeons in the tundra tile along the way,¡± Bellor replied. ¡°Someone is already up there, by the look of the map.¡± He pointed, ¡°A whole cave tile, some of the tundra tile, and now that glacier tile? Lots of dungeons being cleared ¨C quickly, too.¡± As he spoke, another one of the dots blinked out of existence. ¡°I think that glacier will be cleared off soon enough.¡± Renlas nodded and looked up to the heights of the icy mountains. The higher we go in elevation, the more rarity the Boons have, he thought. Someone must have made a rush for those more lucrative dungeons. ¡°What do you suggest?¡± Bellor pointed over to the flaming peaks off in the distance. ¡°That is a few days¡¯ travel. And, less dungeons that way have been cleared. We can go into the mountains no one has entered yet.¡± Renlas smiled and clapped his blood-brother on the shoulder, ¡°Alright! Let¡¯s get to it.¡± The two began their walk towards the mountains that led to flaming peaks.
Jace finished setting up the tent as he took stock of his recently completed Complexes. 4 more cleared. I¡¯m at 25 dungeon cores. Plus, another 1800 Stardust from the two wyvern fights, and the two other frost giant fights. He was quite satisfied with his progress thus far, having added another Epic (Equipment) Boon to his tally, as well as two Epic (Equipment Augmentation) Boons. Ollie zoomed around the top of the tent in circles, splashing through starry nebula that formed around his body. ¡°The day is about to switch to night,¡± he stated. ¡°Day 3 is coming to a close.¡± ¡°3 more dungeons up here on the glacier,¡± Jace replied as he laid out his bedroll. ¡°Then, I¡¯ll use Dark Energy Mine and the grapnel line to launch myself over to the volcano tile.¡± ¡°Sounds like a plan. I am going to pop away if you are fine with it.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Yeah, go ahead. See you in an hour.¡± Ollie waved goodbye and vanished with his pop. Jace laid back on the bedroll and sighed. Dealing with the wyverns was easy, but the encounters with the frost giants still left him unnerved. They behaved in a very human-like manner, and while he knew from what Ollie said that they weren¡¯t really people¡­it still troubled him. He thought of Shhiv and pulled up the text program. Hey there. I finished a few more Complexes. I ended up losing my eye ¨C thanks for your easy Quest, by the way. The new eye is great. Anyways¡­I wanted to get your opinion on something. He paused and took a deep breath before putting his thoughts to text. I¡¯ve killed a few of these nearly-human¡­well, nearly ¡®people¡¯¡­creatures. I don¡¯t know how to feel about it. On one hand, Ollie is telling me they¡¯re not sapient, so they don¡¯t count as people. But I can¡¯t help but feel like there¡¯s something wrong about it. You can look through my logs. Mind taking a look and just¡­giving me your opinion? ¡°Send.¡± He waited there, taking deep breaths as he anticipated the response. He was not waiting long as the text appeared in his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [You seem upset. Well, what my nurse used to say is ¡®you have to take care of yourself first.¡¯ Beating these things looks like it¡¯s the only way to clear these Complexes. What good would it do to just leave them uncleared? Other Aspirants will get to that location eventually and may not have the same hesitations as you.] [You might as well be the one who benefits. That just makes sense to me. Plus, if a Wayfinder ¨C literally the envoys of The Cosmic System ¨C tells you it¡¯s okay¡­who are you to question that?] <<<<<>>>>> Jace felt a slight sense of relief that someone else was condoning his actions. And she had a great point ¨C others would do the same thing and benefit if he did not. The glacier and volcano tiles had the best rarity of Boons ¨C why shouldn¡¯t he get them instead of others? Plus, it was a surer way to reach Tier 10. Thank you. That reasoning helps out. I hope you¡¯re practicing your swimming. I¡¯m going to try my best to beat you at your game. Loser is going to have to buy dinner. ¡°Send.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Oh, challenge accepted! I can¡¯t wait.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace smirked and rolled over, closing his eyes as the wind pushed the sides of his tent in around him. [Day 4 of The Dungeon Run.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace woke up and Ollie almost immediately popped into space. ¡°Get up and get going.¡± His voice was rushed and almost panicked. Jace immediately sat up and began rolling up the bedroll, ¡°What is it?¡± he asked as he ripped open a travel ration and scarfed it down in a few gulps. Ollie pulled up the map and pointed at the remaining dots of dungeons still marked out, ¡°The other groups are clearing way faster than anticipated. My guess is that there is less Aspirant-on-Aspirant violence than in prior Dungeon Runs. But it will not remain that way. There are 260 dungeons left.¡± That¡¯s almost half. In three days? He frowned as a realization set in. ¡°This same thing happened in the past I¡¯d bet. Aspirants rush out and clear the dungeons ¨C and then they start hunting each other for the dungeon cores.¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°That seems like the way it is heading. At this rate, all the dungeon cores will be claimed by the end of Day 6 or 7 at the latest. We would then be dealing with up to three days of inter-Aspirant combat.¡± ¡°But that city had combat banned by this Double-A, right?¡± Ollie nodded, and Jace smiled. ¡°Then let¡¯s clear this glacier, rush to the volcano, and get as many of those under our belt as we can. After, I can use Dark Energy Mine and launch myself back to his city. Then we just wait it out.¡± ¡°Right! Let¡¯s do it!¡± Jace finished packing up the tent, reactivated his Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], and Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3). Hefting his gear, he took off at a fast jog towards the next Complex. Chapter 46 – G??????????L??????????????I????????T??????????????????????C???????????????H????????????
<<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 8.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Razorfrost Elementals.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Information) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace came to a stop in front of the Complex¡¯s entry point. It was a slight depression with a frozen lake that filled a good football field sized area. ¡°Razorfrost Elementals?¡± he asked as he looked up at Ollie. ¡°They are going to be ice ¨C sharp ice. Elemental is just a designation for a magic-imbued substance. Normally, something elemental.¡± Jace raised a quizzical eyebrow, ¡°Couldn¡¯t I just use the one a day Archmage Hydromancy to just¡­destroy them?¡± Ollie shrugged, ¡°You could try it. I don¡¯t know if it would take effect.¡± Maybe not, Jace thought. As he had traversed the glacier, his All-Seeing Dragon¡¯s Eye had been able to make out several Aspirants in the tundra tiles surrounding his elevated perch. I can save the hydromancy once-a-day Skill to push them back and away. Turning back to the icy lake, he stepped forward onto the thick, blue ice as his claws dug sure footholds. Plus, they¡¯re just sharp ice. What could go wro - There was an intense pain in his ankles. Looking down, he saw that the icy surface of this frozen lake had sprouted shards that pierced his prosthetic. Not actually going inside, but due to the CIF perfectly integrating the prosthetics ¨C he felt the pain that lanced up the appendage. Slashing down, he cut the icy shards away. To his surprise, the crimson and purple miasma began to spread below the ice. They¡¯re under it? Jace thought. All around him, spheres of ice with glacial spikes jutting out from all directions levitated from the surface of the frozen lake. They were the size of his torso, bristled with sharp bits ¨C and all launched forward at him. Shit! He held the tower shield in front and felt the impacts of the icy spheres against the surface ¨C and they stuck in place. He could see the spikes slowly pushing through the invisible substance. That¡¯s not good! He began hacking away with his sword at the icy spikes he could make out around the edges of the shield. But as soon as the crimson and purple began to spread, the icy spikes were shed off of the spheres and replaced by new ones ¨C the miasma falling to the ground before dissipating harmlessly. ¡°Starfire Stride!¡± Jace shouted. The bright, purple flames exploded from the soles of his feet, and he rolled back, put his legs against the back of the shield, and dismissed the shield entirely. The icy spikes began to lurch forward only to recoil from the intense heat. There was a crackling noise not unlike a shriek of pain, and the three that took the brunt of the fiery blast exploded into a glittering, snowy cloud. 3 down. 5 to go. Jace kipped up from his back and ran across the ice, jumping up and kicking two more of the orbs in rapid succession. He felt an intense satisfaction as they cracked and exploded into snow. 3 left, he thought as he landed and turned around. And then he fell. Wha- he was floating in darkness, and a flickering image went across his vision. It was static-filled, as if it was struggling to reach him. <<<<<>>>>> SYSTEM ERROR: UNMERGED LOCATION IDENTIFIED Emergency Message dispatched: You have come across a location on a world that The Cosmic System was not able to fully assimilate through Cosmogenic Merging. Because of this, you may lose access to your Cosmic Power and Class Skills. Now that the System has been notified, it may take up to a minute to integrate. Please stand by. <<<<<>>>>> Jace could not see Ollie. His vision had not shifted to the purple hue¡­and he felt cold. Numb. Did my gear stop working also? His sword was just a dull, black blade, and he felt himself sinking due to the weight of his gear and prosthetics. Panic began to set in, and he tried to swim up ¨C but could not. The flames on his legs vanished despite him knowing that the water wouldn¡¯t douse them. The Razorfrost Elementals descended through the icy layer above, and he saw the world seemingly slow down as they raced toward him. He tried to speak. He tried to say, ¡°I want all the water and ice gone! Hydromancy ¨C activate!¡± But all that came out was a gurgle and bubbles. However, that was enough. This part of the world, despite not being touched by The Cosmic System, was still subject to the laws and rules imposed by the very nature of the locale. Technically, he had used magic. Magic in a magic world. The water vanished. Jace fell to the bottom of the now empty bowl, landing on his feet and then falling on his butt. The ice above him vanished. The elementals vanished. There was an odd pulse in the air ¨C Jace could see slight, prismatic sparkles as some invisible force field passed over him. He felt his warmth return as his equipment came back online, and his Cosmic Power symbol pulsed with power once more. Ollie appeared with a pop. ¡°What happened?¡± he said in a panic. Jace took a deep breath and shook his head, flicking water out of his hair. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me that there are unmerged locations.¡± He stood up. ¡°I had no idea there were any on this world!¡± The otter flew up to Jace and made a show of putting his paws on Jace¡¯s face, peering into his eyes. Well, pantomiming putting his paws on Jace¡¯s face ¨C he felt nothing. ¡°You survived though. How?¡± ¡°Magic,¡± Jace replied. ¡°Hydromancy.¡± Ollie nodded and his face was washed with relief. ¡°Smart. I knew I got a winner when you survived the Vyrknadine.¡± A golden pillar appeared nearby, and Jace walked over, grabbing the dungeon core. 26, he thought. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay the Razorfrost Elementals.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Information) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.]The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. <<<<<>>>>> ¡°No Stardust it looks like,¡± Jace muttered. ¡°That feels crappy.¡± Ollie frowned and looked around, ¡°I can try to harvest it. Walk around the bowl here a little bit.¡± Jace did as he was instructed, and Ollie waved his paws several times over. As they reached the center of the depression, the blue starlight streaked from the center of the bowl into Ollie¡¯s paw. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 800] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°How does that happen?¡± Jace asked. ¡°A part of the world doesn¡¯t get affected by Cosmogenic Merging?¡± ¡°Right. So, that happens when a location is very well hidden, or has some extremely powerful magic, magitech, or technology. It makes me wonder what is special about this frozen lake on this glacier, that it was not affected.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s spend the Stardust. How much are we at?¡± ¡°3520 Stardust.¡± ¡°Three levels. As many as I can pump into Dark Matter Mending.¡± ¡°There are two Ranks of that left. That leaves you with one remaining.¡± ¡°Then dump it into Dark Energy Beam.¡± <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 42] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) [Astral Annihilator], Dark Matter Dart [Exploding] (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3) [Distant], Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10), Dark Energy Beam (Rank 11), Dark Matter Mending (Rank 4) [Vampiric], Starfire Stride (1/day), Arbiter''s Anathema (1/day), Archmage Geomancy (1/day), Archmage Hydromancy (1/day) Stardust: 520 Equipment: Swordmage blade, (Medium / Snowguard / Burnguard) Devastation Armor, Wirecannon Arm, Anathema Arm, Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, All-Seeing Dragon''s Eye, (Heavy) Venture Pack, survival meals (x30), enhanced canteen, optimized medical kit, flint bar, flashlight, Omnitech prosthetic repair module (x1 charges), (Restful) Wildercloth tent, Devilsram wool bedroll Boons: x4 Common (Equipment), Common (Information), Uncommon (Information), x2 Epic (Equipment), x2 Epic (Equipment Augmentation), Epic (Information) <<<<<>>>>> Dark Matter Mending (Rank 3) - The user cures all injuries or afflictions on themselves. Dark Matter Mending (Rank 4) - The user cures all injuries and all afflictions on themselves. Dark Energy Beam (Rank 11) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (40 in. diameter) <<<<<>>>>> Jace felt the warmth suffuse his body and as he began to scan the ground in this deep bowl, he spotted something glowy with a slight sparkle under the center of the bowl. What the hell? He went over to it and tried to focus with the right eye by closing his left one. There is definitely something under this. Pulling out his sword, he slammed it down and into the very stone-like, icy layer. Why didn¡¯t the hydromancy spell Skill thing affect this? He made a nice little gap, and reached in with his Anathema Arm to rip out the chunks of ice. It felt more like rock than ice. That might explain it. Once he had cleared away enough, he reached into the slight hole he had made and pulled out a smooth, round stone with arcane markings and symbols. On it. The symbols did not make any sense. Ollie flew above him and read it as well. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s snapped in half. The other half must be somewhere else on this world.¡± ¡°What could it be?¡± ¡°We have (Information) Boons saved up.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s use them.¡± ¡°We will have to use the Epic rarity one. I can tell you right now, if this thing was strong enough to keep Cosmogenic Merging from taking place in this location ¨C a Common or Uncommon rarity will not cut it.¡± ¡°Do it.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Information).] [Query: What is this stone?] [Answer: This stone is half of a soul-binding spell, often referred to as a phylactery. If destroyed, it will reform at the location of its other half. If both halves are destroyed at once, the spell is broken.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°What do you want to bet that this thing belongs to Double-A?¡± Jace asked. ¡°It would be likely, since he was the only Archmage before this world¡¯s Cosmogenic Merging, and the only Aspirant to survive the Trial.¡± ¡°We can¡¯t use an (Information) boon to find the other half, but, we could use it to find where The Cosmic System is not present ¨C right?¡± Ollie cracked a grin and clapped his paws together, ¡°Smart thinking!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Common (Information).] [Query: What other locations on Nihilethelea repelled Cosmogenic Merging?] [Answer: See Wayfinder map for updated information.] <<<<<>>>>> Ollie pulled up the map, and there was a bright, orange dot in the farthest desert tile at the corner of the world. ¡°It is past the volcano.¡± Jace tossed the half up and down in his hand, ¡°This Double-A guy, you said something along the lines of this Archmage being crazy. Would it benefit The Cosmic System to have him toppled?¡± ¡°Let me ask Xera.¡± Ollie¡¯s eyes went black for a moment. Jace began walking to the edge of the depression and pulled himself up and out using a combination of his clawed feet and grapnel hook. Ollie¡¯s eyes relit as Jace got out of the bowl. ¡°She said that it is up to your discretion. It would make this world habitable once more, but would end The Dungeon Run permanently, since Double-A is the one that runs the whole thing. But, it would open this world up to the original inhabitants once more ¨C some of whom desire the magic they once knew.¡± He crossed his arms, ¡°He is Tier 4, however.¡± ¡°So, I get to level 50, stock up Stardust, finish the Dungeon Run, get the prize, and then level up to 51 or higher. That gets me to Tier 3. Then¡­I could have a shot at killing him.¡± ¡°You had a problem with killing, I thought.¡± Jace shook his head, ¡°Not with this guy. He pushed people out of their home world. I had the same thing happen. An awesome little setup we street folk had under a bridge. Corpos pushed us out. This guy...I bet he treated the people here like insects.¡± Jace felt himself getting heated and the more he spoke the angrier he got. ¡°Okay, I can tell you are passionate about this.¡± Ollie flew forward and pulled up the map. ¡°No shit. They kicked me out of my home. I mean, yeah, we relocated easy enough¡­but it still sucked being kicked out and having to uproot my whole life. It hurt Chroma more¡­she was so sad having to leave behind her fort she had been working on for months. A literal fort of sheet metal and scrap wood. Something that had started to become a home.¡± Ollie didn¡¯t respond, but Jace could see the sad expression on his face. ¡°We have two more dungeons here on the glacier. How are you feeling? Need a break?¡± ¡°I¡¯m good.¡± Jace followed the path Ollie laid out. Chapter 47 – Glaciers, gear, and grand plans
¡°Hurry up!¡± Bellor shouted to Renlas. The stockier, shorter, red-haired man clambered up the mountain. The two had neglected dungeons in favor of reaching the ones that appeared to have higher rarity. The air began to grow warm, but thankfully they had both come equipped with clothing for all manner of temperature extremes. Once they got to a relatively sheltered cave on the side of the mountain, they stripped their armor off, donned heat-resistant undergarments, and re-equipped themselves. ¡°A few hours climb, and we reach the edge of the tile,¡± Renlas muttered as he finished attaching his last piece of his greaves. ¡°Damn right,¡± Bellor replied. ¡°And then we get those sweet, higher rarity Boons.¡± The two had concluded that they would not be winning The Dungeon Run. Someone out there had to have more than their paltry 10 dungeon cores ¨C probably whoever sprinted ahead of the pack and seemingly cleared a cave tile and most of the glacier tile over the past days. ¡°If we get lucky, they might come our way. We could kill them, take their cores, and win.¡± Renlas grinned, ¡°I mean, oblivion awaits all. Right?¡± ¡°Close. It¡¯s just ¡®oblivion awaits¡¯,¡± Bellor corrected. ¡°The Black Hole Conclave is expecting a lot from us. Tier 6 at minimum?¡± Renlas grabbed his gear and hefted it onto his stout back. Rubbing his beard and running his other hand through the soft spikes atop his skull, he shrugged. ¡°Yeah, but I don¡¯t know why. The whole point is to feed planets to Troxanir at the center of the universe. You would think they want us to become Ascendants as fast as possible, you know, since that process will take millions of years.¡± ¡°Not really,¡± Bellor replied as he cinched on his own gear, and the two took turns jumping and jostling their equipment to identify loose bits to tighten down for their climb. ¡°It is much faster than you would think.¡± ¡°Why planets though?¡± Renlas asked. ¡°Surely we can feed it bigger things?¡± ¡°Planets have nutrients that stars and other space objects do not,¡± Bellor said. ¡°Ah. Okay. Well, you¡¯ve always been the smart one.¡± ¡°Damn right.¡± Bellor tapped Renlas on the top of the helmet, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s get going. The volcano dungeons await!¡±
The wind had kicked up and Jace wrapped his cloak, hood, and mask tightly around his head. Stupid wind, he thought as his progress had slowed considerably. Not because of the cold; it was because of his footing. The glacier had crevices that he could fall into if he wasn¡¯t careful, and so he had to poke in front of him with his Swordmage blade to try and find any cracks he would need to navigate around. Ollie paused and held up his paw in a clenched position. ¡°This is it.¡± He had brought Jace to the foot of a small plateau that was completely flattened. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 1.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Matriarch of the Wastes.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Secret Cache) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace held his blade at the ready, re-manifesting his Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending] and Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3). Stepping forward, the whole plateau shimmered as if a mirage, and at the center a creature appeared. It was regal, in a way. An enormous head not unlike a bear with a slightly shorter snout was covered with icy spikes that formed a sort of collar around the neck and jutted from the face. Icy spikes extended along the back of the body, and oddly enough it only had two forelegs, dragging its massive, hulking form along the ice. Instead of back legs, the midsection tapered to that of a worm, with icy segments that allowed it to move forward with speed that Jace was not prepared for. It closed the distance within a split second, and Jace barely got his shield up in place as it slammed a wicked, sharp claw into the barricade. The impact jarred Jace and he went flying off to the side, tumbling down the plateau and out of the Complex area. The matriarch looked down at him from above, holding her position, and let out a growl that seemed to shake the whole glacier. Jace growled in response and got to his feet. ¡°Yeah, stay up there! Dark Matter Dart (Rank 4) [Exploding]!¡± Jace felt the tiredness hit him, but pushed the feeling aside. The nine shadowy-purple darts shot forth from the tip of his blade. They streaked up and slammed into the matriarch¡¯s face, exploding once they had piercing a few inches. ¡°That only pissed her off!¡± Ollie shouted. ¡°Incoming!¡± Jace pointed his grapnel arm to the side, launched, attached, and retracted to pick up more speed as the matriarch charged down the glacier towards him. ¡°I thought they couldn¡¯t leave the Complex?!¡± ¡°It¡¯s like their territory,¡± Ollie replied as he stuck close to Jace. ¡°They can venture short distances ¨C but rarely do. If you hadn¡¯t shot her, she would¡¯ve waited.¡± Inconvenient, Jace thought as the matriarch turned course to follow him with her headlong charge. Jace planted his feet as she barreled towards him. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). He put the mine on the ground right in front of him, and the slight, black dot that only he could see pulsed with energy. As the matriarch got closer, Jace retracted his claws and let himself slide backward down the glacier. As soon as the creature had passed over the mine, he triggered it. Detonate. She stopped moving and hovered in the air. Clawing fruitlessly at the air towards Jace, she thrashed her tail, impacted the ground, and began ascending skyward. Jace pointed his grapple up at her, shot it out, and it latched onto her underside. Retracting the cable, he shot up towards her. She saw him coming and tried to bite down at him ¨C but her ability to move how she desired was hampered by the unfamiliar lack of gravity. 28 seconds, Jace thought. He slashed away at her midsection and heard her roars of agony. Planting his foot-claws into the hide, he used the grapnel to swing on top of her body as it continued to ascend. Atop her, he kept slashing ¨C well-spaced grooves that did not cut deep but began to spread the purple and crimson miasma. Over and over and over. He was heaving with his exertion and taking shaking breaths. It was less like fighting and more like swinging a sledgehammer. Gravity reasserted itself and the two began to plummet. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1), Jace thought once more, placing the mine on himself. The matriarch turned over in midair and tried to claw at him. Jace simply jumped off her, and as she crashed into the glacier with a resounding thud, he activated the mine. Detonate. Floating in the air only twenty feet above the icy surface, he grappled himself down and retracted the line as he deactivated the Skill. The matriarch was injured and had most definitely broken some vital, internal parts as she writhed on the ground. The miasma spread, and Jace waited patiently for her to expire. He was winded and did not want to tangle with her anymore. He was not waiting long as she finally stopped moving; the crimson and purple having spread all over her form. Walking down to the prone corpse, he gestured for Ollie to do his thing.You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 800] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay the Matriarch of the Wastes.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Secret Cache) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°I want to use some Boons,¡± Jace stated as he grabbed the dungeon core from the golden pedestal that appeared atop the plateau. And that¡¯s 27 dungeon cores. He sheathed his sword and dismissed his Skills. ¡°Which ones?¡± ¡°The Epic (Equipment) for a new sword, and the second one of those for another All-Seeing Dragon¡¯s Eye.¡± Because constantly closing my left eye or getting dizzy from the quality difference is annoying. ¡°Right. And any more?¡± ¡°After the new gear.¡± ¡°All right! Your left eye is going to burn something fierce.¡± Jace sat down and nodded, ¡°Ready.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Equipment).] [Manifesting.] [Using Boon: Epic (Equipment).] [Manifesting.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace felt the searing heat in his left eye and shut both instinctively. He plunged his head forward into the snow and stifled a scream by biting down on his cloak. After a few seconds, the pain subsided, and he blinked his eyes open, looking out from the top of the glacier. The lack of nausea from the differing types of sight was a welcome relief, and he felt quite pleased. But something was different. He could see farther, and with more clarity. Ollie began talking, ¡°The magic-based eye prosthetics work better when they come in a pair, apparently.¡± Jace rummaged around in his pack and pulled out the medical kit. There was a small mirror inside, and he pulled it out and held it up. His eyes were draconic: a deep, purple glow with a black slit that pulsed with a slight, light-blue starlight along the edges of the slit. It made him look intimidating. ¡°I wonder what Shivv will think, now,¡± he muttered. ¡°She has similar eyes.¡± ¡°Look at the sword!¡± Jace glanced down at the sheathed hilt. It was no longer pure black. Instead, it was a deep, purple wrap with a silver cord running down the center. The pommel was a lighter, astral-blue gemstone that matched the hue of the cross guard. Drawing the sword, the blade slowly emerged from the weird not-reality he normally sheathed it into. The blade itself was still a black color, but there was intricate linework along the weapon; light, blue lines the color of Stardust mixed with gold traces of starbursts. ¡°A Starstorm Sword. The neat thing about this, is that it will negate the energy cost of weapon imbuing Skills ¨C like your Dark Matter Blade.¡± Jace grinned, ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m talking about!¡± He took a few practice swings. The weapon was a little longer than his old one, but it felt perfect in his grip. ¡°Now, let¡¯s use those Epic (Equipment Augmentations). I want to upgrade my legs and this new sword.¡± ¡°Coming up!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Equipment Augmentation).] [Target Equipment: Dragonclaw Devastation Legs.] [Augmenting.] [Result: (Overclocked) Dragonclaw Devastation Legs.] [Description: The Overclocked (Equipment Augmentation) increases the user¡¯s movement speed.] <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Equipment Augmentation).] [Target Equipment: Starstorm Sword.] [Augmenting.] [Result: (Returning) Starstorm Sword.] [Description: The Returning (Equipment Augmentation) enables the weapon to teleport to the user¡¯s hand or dimensional sheath as long as both are within the confines of The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> So that¡¯s what it¡¯s called. A dimensional sheath. To test, he chucked the sword off the side of the plateau. It sailed a few dozen feet before clattering and beginning a downward slide. He could see a faint trail of starlight extending from his fingertip to the blade and tried tugging it back. The weapon reappeared in his grip. ¡°That¡¯s awesome!¡± Ollie swam around in the air, ¡°Yup! Now you have a good non-energy intensive, ranged option.¡± Jace sheathed the blade and only the hilt remained next to his hip. ¡°Right. Another dungeon?¡± ¡°One more complex up here on the glacier! Then off to the volcano tile!¡±
Quinn and Greg were in the truck once more, traveling across the plains of Velenar Prime. The Vyrknadine were turning out to be a hot commodity ¨C rich people from across The Cosmic Corridor saw the equivalent of a social media post featuring the pair that the duo had acquired for their last client. And that kicked off a frenzy of people who wanted Vyrknadine puppies. Quinn had procured a sweet deal. They would get residual income from the sale of the offspring ¨C but they needed more breeding pairs. So, they were out once more, this time with a second attachment to the back of the truck to enable more cargo. Plus, cages this time. Greg began loading up an armor-piercing anesthetic rifle, ¡°How you holding up?¡± he asked. ¡°Holding up with what?¡± Quinn replied as she kept her foot on the accelerator. He put a finger to his temple and made a corkscrew motion, ¡°The whole cybernetics in your brain.¡± She sighed, ¡°I went by the hospital in Khrox. Someone looked¡­I have to get the Cybermind Mk. 4 removed, upgraded, or get my hands on the CIF stuff that Jace was transporting¡­and that was the only dose that was smuggled out of Enduralife Enterprises.¡± Greg clicked his tongue and shook his head, ¡°Damn. And no way you¡¯re getting in there. The one that Jace was carrying was the only one smuggled out. It was going to a contact at Myscape Industrial.¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter,¡± Quinn replied. ¡°I just have to get a replacement, and then the hospital can swap it out.¡± ¡°They are damned expensive,¡± Greg replied. ¡°And I doubt that the megacorps will trade creds for Stardust at a favorable rate. I mean, when I went back, I figured out tha-¡± ¡°Megacorps and governments controlling the portals are keeping everyone on Earth subsistent on their credit universal currency, while Stardust is being exclusively traded by certain Ascendants and their factions to the higher-ups.¡± Greg chuckled, ¡°And that¡¯s why you¡¯re an information broker- Oh! I see one! Pull over.¡± Quinn did so, and Greg clambered out of the window and on top of the truck. She zoomed in with her Cybereyes Mk. 3 and spotted the creature in the distance. How did he see it from so far? She thought. She gripped the side of her head and let out an unintentional yelp of pain. Greg flinched and missed his shot, the crack of the gun going off as the Vyrknadine turned to the sound and began to charge the truck. She heard the clack of the bolt on the rifle, and another crack. Then, silence. ¡°Got it! Right in the mouth!¡± Greg shouted. He hopped off the truck and looked in through the window, his face swapping from elation to concern, ¡°You good?¡± Quinn nodded, ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± she said through gritted teeth. Greg said nothing, nodded tersely, and went to go drag the male predator to the cage on the truck bed. Chapter 48 – Furious frost and leaping to lava
Jace moved quicker than he had ever before. On the plains tiles he was going around 13 miles per hour comfortably, without any exertion. Now? He estimated easily 20 miles per hour. And it was almost effortless. The joy of speed made him giddy with excitement, and he got to the next Complex in no time. Drawing his sword, he activated Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending] and Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2). The ice and snow crunched under his foot claws as he descended into a steep ravine, water trickling down the walls. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 2.] [Number of foes to clear out: 1.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Malformed Starspawn.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> That¡¯ll give me a third Epic (Equipment). I can merge them into a Legendary one! Jace¡¯s excitement rushed through him, and he sprinted down the ravine, keeping his eyes peeled for any trace of this Starspawn. Ollie flew alongside him, ¡°A Starspawn is what happens when a celestial body ¨C like a star ¨C has a child.¡± Jace turned about as he reached the end of the ravine and found only a slight pool of chilled, clear water. ¡°How did one get here? Shouldn¡¯t it be in space?¡± ¡°It was malformed. Rejected by its parent star. So, it fell ¨C literally a falling star. Expect heat-¡± Jace spotted a bright, orange beam of energy that was arcing towards him and barely got his shield up in time. The beam splashed against the raised blockade and scattered out in all directions. The warmth was intense ¨C despite Jace¡¯s armor, it felt on the verge of a burn. The beam faded, and Jace¡¯s eyes focused immediately on the creature that crept from an impossibly small ledge under a small shelf of ice. It was a charred corpse of some worm-like creature. A pair of beady, yellow eyes stared at Jace, and its front opened as a small mouth revealed the heart of a star within. A tiny shriek was emitted, and Jace instinctively hid his whole body behind the shield. The worm-creature projected the power of a star, a burning cone that would have roasted Jace to a crisp if not for his shield and the augmented armor. Even then, Jace felt his prosthetics heating up. He could feel the slight char along his arms. Not the legs ¨C which didn¡¯t surprise him as they had the heat of a star within as well. He shouted, ¡°Dark Energy Beam (Rank 4)!¡± The energy drain he felt was prodigious, but the grey-purple light shot from just above his right shoulder and went through the cone ¨C canceling out the incredible heat ¨C as it pierced through the center of the creature, cutting it in half. Jace watched, with relief, as the glowing, orange maw closed, and the cold air reimposed itself. But that relief turned to shock as the small worm creature repaired itself ¨C strands of orange, blazing fury snapping out as the halves pulled themselves together. ¡°No you don¡¯t!¡± Jace ran forward and hacked away at the connective tissue and orange light that attempted to pull it back into place. The crimson and purple miasma began to spread. Dark Matter Mending (Rank 4) [Vampiric]. Jace felt a soothing relief wash over him as the sunburn on his slightly exposed upper face was washed away. He took a few steps back and hid behind his shield, waiting for the creature to expire. He was not waiting long. It expired ¨C the malformed shape not able to out-heal the damage-over-time effects. Ollie flew over and dusted it. Jace grabbed the dungeon core from the pedestal that appeared. 28 now. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 300] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Malformed Starspawn.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°How do we combine the Boons?¡± Jace asked as he made his way out of the icy chasm. ¡°I can just merge them. You want the 3 Epic (Equipment) to fuse?¡± ¡°And any others we can.¡± ¡°Yeah, we can also fuse 3 of the Common (Equipment) up to an uncommon (Equipment).¡± ¡°May as well.¡± Ollie nodded and waved his paws around. A screen appeared ¨C Jace¡¯s equipment, and he saw Ollie moving the Boons on top of each other and clicking through some confirmation statements. ¡°Okay, it¡¯s all set!¡± ¡°Let me see.¡± <<<<<>>>>> Boons: Common (Equipment), Uncommon (Equipment), Uncommon (Information), x2 Epic (Equipment Augmentation), Epic (Secret Cache), Legendary (Equipment) <<<<<>>>>> Hmm. Okay, so Legendary (Equipment) gives me gear that has 1/day Skill uses as part of it. He looked down at his Wirecannon Arm, upgrading this thing would be useful. Then I¡¯d have all my limbs Legendary. ¡°Let¡¯s improve this Wirecannon Arm.¡± He rolled up his right sleeve all the way to the shoulder joint. ¡°Roger!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Legendary (Equipment).] [Manifesting.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace¡¯s right, cobalt-blue arm shifted and warped ¨C all feeling and sensation left it and he no longer felt any part of it as a part of him. He could feel his shoulder joint near his collarbone expand as the CIF pooled back into his torso. Stolen novel; please report. He felt a warmth ¨C but not nearly as painful as previously. It must be less painful when swapping out prosthetics, versus replacing existing parts. There was a glittering, starlight-blue as the arm became slightly bulkier and more human-like and less artificial in appearance. As the stars vanished, he could make out the deep, black metal with golden script. Similar to the Anathema Arm, but different words scrawled out. ¡°This is called a Ghostlight Grapnel Arm. It has a range of 100 ft. compared to your prior 50 ft. And it does not actually use a cord that can be interacted with. Instead, it is a ghostly version of the cord. It can fire and retract at will, instead of using a series of buttons. The downside is that you cannot impale creatures with the hook anymore. You can still pull yourself to them, or them to you.¡± Ollie flew around in circles around Jace. To test it out, he aimed up at the edge of the crevice. As he put his arm up, he felt a rush of tingling sensation ¨C as if his foot had fallen asleep ¨C crackling up his new arm from his shoulder. The slight mass of CIF surged into the new limb, integrating it perfectly into his body. Still no clue how Earth based tech is doing that with magic limbs. He focused on firing the grapnel, and saw a spectral, dark-grey line shoot forth, attach to where he had aimed, and stayed taught. And now, retract. He was pulled up ¨C much faster than the Wirecannon Arm would have pulled him up before ¨C and he felt the grapnel automatically retract as he planted his palm. And I don¡¯t have to manually release it? That¡¯s way easier to use. ¡°Plus, it gives you a 1/day use of the Skill Shadow Nebula Smokescreen, which will create a 10 ft. radius cloud extending from you that impedes line of sight of everyone¡­well, except for you. It lasts for 10 seconds.¡± Jace held up the arm and turned it over a few times before rolling his sleeve back down over it. ¡°I also have enough Stardust to level up, right?¡± ¡°Yup! 1620 Stardust.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s do that. Another Rank into Dark Energy Beam.¡± ¡°How come, if you don¡¯t mind me asking?¡± ¡°I want a strong trump card, even if it makes me really, really tired.¡± ¡°Okay!¡± <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 43] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) [Astral Annihilator], Dark Matter Dart [Exploding] (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3) [Distant], Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10), Dark Energy Beam (Rank 12), Dark Matter Mending (Rank 4) [Vampiric], Starfire Stride (1/day), Arbiter''s Anathema (1/day), Shadow Nebula Smokescreen (1/day), Archmage Geomancy (1/day), Archmage Hydromancy (1/day) Stardust: 620 Equipment: (Returning) Starstorm Sword, (Medium / Snowguard / Burnguard) Devastation Armor, Ghostlight Grapnel Arm, Anathema Arm, (Overclocked) Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, x2 All-Seeing Dragon''s Eye, (Heavy) Venture Pack, survival meals (x30), enhanced canteen, optimized medical kit, flint bar, flashlight, Omnitech prosthetic repair module (x1 charges), (Restful) Wildercloth tent, Devilsram wool bedroll Boons: Common (Equipment), Uncommon (Equipment), Uncommon (Information), x2 Epic (Equipment Augmentation), Epic (Secret Cache) <<<<<>>>>> Dark Energy Beam (Rank 12) - As Rank 1, but increase size of the beam (44 in. diameter) <<<<<>>>>> Jace frowned, ¡°Give me a size comparison, please.¡± ¡°Think about half the size of a king-sized bed. But a circle.¡± Jace blinked at him, ¡°Huh? King-sized?¡± Ollie sighed and pinched the top of his little, cute snout. ¡°Right, you did not have luxuries. Okay. Think the length of a baseball bat ¨C you know what that is, right?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Jace replied. ¡°One of the other street folk had one made of metal and wrapped in spikey bits. He used it to hit scroungers that weren¡¯t part of the group.¡± ¡°So, that long, but then if you put it on the ground and spin it in a circle. That will give you the size of the beam.¡± Jace knelt and traced out the rough shape and length, and then drew a circle using that length as a reference. That is a big beam. I could disintegrate half of a person with that! He stood up and nodded, ¡°Right. Okay. Time to head to our next destination.¡± He turned to the distant volcano, 150 miles away according to Ollie¡¯s map and the tile size. ¡°Are you going to do the mine-launch again?¡± Ollie asked. Jace nodded, ¡°Yup. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1) on myself,¡± he stated. The small, black bead appeared on his torso with a trigger condition for when his trajectory changed. He winced slightly as his heart skipped a few beats from the sudden energy drain. Ollie looked around, ¡°There is nothing to grapple with to set up the trajectory.¡± ¡°No need,¡± Jace said as he grinned, anticipating the oncoming rush. Crouching, he waved Ollie over, ¡°Stay close.¡± Ollie flew over and wrapped himself around Jace¡¯s neck. ¡°Ready for¡­whatever it is!¡± ¡°I want the earth to rise under me ¨C as fast and as high as possible ¨C to launch me to the volcano. Geomancy ¨C activate.¡± Jace felt the glacier under him begin to rumble as a spur of rock jutted up and impacted the bottom of his feet. It shot upwards and he clung to it as the wind rushed against his face. He was only able to keep his eyes open because they were prosthetic. He could feel his clothing whipping in the wind as he was shoved into the sky. He retracted the feet-claws, and the earthen spike stopped ¨C sending him flying. He flew up through the hazy silver and gold magic that floated through the skies ¨C and the Dark Energy Mine activated, removing gravity from him. His momentum carried him forward and he sailed over the fifty-mile expanse of the cave tile. His sharp, All-Seeing Dragon¡¯s eyes could make out the groups of Aspirants in the various terrain areas below. As the Skill was about to run out, he re-used it and persisted his sailing flight ¨C angling right towards the highest peaks of the volcanic range. ¡°Weee!¡± Ollie shouted out, and Jace whooped at the thrill of not-flight.
¡°You see that?¡± Bellor asked as he pointed up in the sky. Renlas nodded. Some damned fool flying. Double-A is going to smite them. But, to both of their shock ¨C the figure just kept¡­floating? Sort of falling? It didn¡¯t look like any type of flight they had seen. And the person vanished from their view as they vanished past the mountains the two Black Hole Signers were currently climbing up. Bellor growled and punched his fist into the wall, cracking part of the stone as he clambered up, ¡°They¡¯re gonna beat us to the dungeons up there! Come on!¡± We have to get stronger, Renlas thought as he climbed alongside his blood-sworn kin. The two had grown up on a desolate, desert world. They were trainees in an order devoted to their goddess of destruction. But when Cosmogenic Merging happened, they both chose Aspirant and were lucky enough to be embraced in a hug at the time. They were transported together, and went through their Aspirant Trial, together. Then, they learned of Troxanir, the Endless Hunger. Their goddess, given flesh. One who sought the oblivion of all. To bring an eternal quiet and peace to the raging conflicts of the world¡­well, worlds, now that the brothers had learned of The Cosmic Corridor and The Eternal City. Part of their duties as Signers was to grow in power. Troxanir had decreed that much; all new Aspirants were to reach level 51 at a minimum before choosing their Ascended Power and Advanced Class. Tier 4, minimum, he thought as he clambered up the rock face. Then, level 26 of my Advanced Class...then I can Ascend and serve destruction for all time. The brothers reached a cliff edge and took a breather. The air had grown warmer and stuffier. After drinking from their canteens, they resumed their climb ¨C to the volcano tile. Dungeons with high rarity Boons. And, to perhaps encounter and kill this unknown Aspirant who flew across the skies. Chapter 49 – Lava lakes and Complexes like crucibles
Jace landed on the side of a mountain with a gentle ¡®thud¡¯, locking his feet-claws into place before letting the Dark Energy Mine effect fade. ¡°And we have arrived!¡± Ollie shouted as he left the area around Jace¡¯s collar and instead began to float around the air in excited, starlit strokes. Jace took stock of his surroundings. The rocky cliff he had landed on was at a steep angle, and he found himself having to dig his fingers into the edifice to keep from falling backwards. ¡°We need to use another (Information) Boon to find the location of Complexes here, right?¡± ¡°Yup! We only have an Uncommon rarity though. It is a little bit of a waste.¡± ¡°Do it.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Uncommon (Information).] [Query: Complex location on volcano tile.] [Answer: See Wayfinder map for updated information.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace looked at the map that Ollie had pulled up. Right. And I know where the other half of this rock-circle-thing is. Way past the volcano tile in the desert. Hmm. Looks like that tile is untouched for now. ¡°Right. First off, let¡¯s get to one of those nearby Complexes.¡± Ollie flew ahead of him, and Jace trekked up the rock-covered landscape. The environment was naught but sharp, spiked rocks that jutted upward - and lava. Streams and trickles at most places, large lakes at others. Jace¡¯s armor kept him insulated against the heat effects ¨C but even being near the lava made him sweat. He made extensive use of the Ghostlight Grapnel Arm to traverse the terrain rapidly ¨C tethering to points higher up on the volcanic mountain and using his legs to build up momentum for swings that took him around the side of the mountain face. He came to a stop and retracted the line to gain height as he got on top of a ledge. A rivulet of lava poured out like a waterfall, and the stream had seemingly carved a groove into a tunnel that led into the mountain. Jace¡¯s sight adjusted automatically to the purple hue of his Cosmic Power, and he drew his sword. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3). The blade thrummed with power, and he did not feel any energy drop from it. ¡°This new sword is great,¡± he said softly as he walked into the cramped tunnel, the hissing and sizzling lava next to him. ¡°Yup! Reduced energy cost is awesome. Hopefully we can find something that will do the same for your Dark Energy Beam.¡± Ollie dipped into and out of the lava, swimming through it with lazy backstrokes. The tunnel expanded and Jace found himself in what he could only describe as a lava cistern. There was a large, center, circular indentation that bubbled and hissed magma to the surface before it ran down the channel Jace had just followed along. A ledge ran around the outside. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 3.] [Number of foes to clear out: 1.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay Dhulgon, Flame Demon of Ash Peak.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> The lava began to bubble and hiss. ¡°Ollie? Why is it Tier 3? I thought this was all Tier 2?!¡± Ollie froze in panic and shook his head, ¡°I¡­I do not know! Querying System. We should ru-¡± ¡°Too late!¡± Jace dove to the side as the lava exploded upward and coated the chamber. It covered his body, and he grunted, crashing into a heap. His dodge roll would have ended with him on his feet, but the sudden lethargy that swept over him from the Dark Matter Shield was overwhelming. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2), he thought as the barrier shifted and formed along his Ghostlight Grapnel Arm. The rocks around him sizzled and hissed. A figure appeared in the lava and rose up in height. The waist-down was completely immersed in the fiery pool below, and what extended up from that was horrifying. A hulking mass of charred, burning flesh with spiky, bone protrusions that dripped viscera that bubbled and hissed with an inner heat of its own. Its head was the shape of a human, but with a slight snout that was naut but fangs of obsidian. In its hands were flaming, dripping, lava blades. And it was tall. Twenty feet, at least, and ten feet wide at the shoulders. ¡°I found it! The volcano tile was once called Ash Peak. The whole tile is Tier 3! The rest of the world is Tier 2.¡± Jace side-stepped a vertical, slashing strike that carved into the stone next to him leaving a steaming slice. It¡¯s too far into the lava for me to hit, Jace thought. And its reach is way more than mine. Pulling the sword back, he launched it to the creature¡¯s chest. The blade plunged in, the creature roared, and it swung that enormous off-hand blade in a horizontal cleave across the platform. Jace leaned forward ¨C relying on his prosthetic¡¯s omni-directional joint ¨C as he ducked under the sweep. And come back. The blade vanished and reappeared in his grip. The monstrous form roared; its eyes that were just black orbs blazed with an unholy fury of deep, brackish green. It swung back the other way, both blades swinging horizontally. Jace jumped into midair and twisted ¨C flattening his body ¨C as one blade went above him and the other went below. As soon as the blades had passed, he launched his sword again. He saw it sink into the creature¡¯s body, and he recalled it once more. The [Rending] and [Rank 5] gravity are working. The purple miasma was spreading ever so slightly, as was the crimson nebula. The tiny, black dots of micro-singularities were expanding within the purple ¨C but this creature was huge. Easily the size of a two-story house. I can¡¯t rely on the bleed alone. The room began to get hotter, and Jace dodged a one-two combo of vertical slash followed by a cross-chop. ¡°Ollie! What¡¯s happening?!¡± ¡°It is going to use that lava-surge again! It will cover the room.¡± Screw that! Arbiter¡¯s Anathema! Jace pointed his sword-arm at the creature. A twisting spiral of black and gold magic lashed itself around the creature. The heat in the room began to dissipate, and the monster roared as the gold and black became a chain that wrapped around its torso. ¡°No more lava bursts!¡± Jace shouted, his confidence brimming. This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. The monster moved closer to the platform, and Jace shot the grapnel above it, yanking himself up. Let¡¯s try this out also. Shadow Nebula Smokescreen. A silvery, black smoke expanded from his Ghostlight Grapnel Arm and settled around the head of the creature. It reached up towards Jace ¨C but grabbed nothing except for open air as its vision was obscured. Jace slashed down at the head as he passed by, releasing himself at the apex of his launch so that he could land on the opposite side of the room. The crimson and purple began to spread around the skull, and the monster roared once more ¨C in rage, or pain, Jace couldn¡¯t tell. And while you¡¯re blind- He threw the blade and recalled it ¨C over and over ¨C getting a total of seven throws in during the 10-second smokescreen duration. The creature was helpless, swinging in all directions while the cloud persisted, and Jace just hugged the wall as he kept stacking the [Rending] and (Rank 5) Dark Matter Blade effects. This (Returning) Augment is handy, Jace thought. Ollie flew over to Jace and wrapped around his neck, ¡°It is going to take a long time to bleed out.¡± Jace nodded as the smokescreen dissipated and the creature refocused its ire on him. ¡°Then let¡¯s try something unexpected.¡± He stood his ground as the creature pulled back and slashed horizontally along the ledge. Instead of dodging, Jace interposed the shield ¨C and retracted his foot-claws. The blade hit, and he could see the dripping weapon beyond the shield. He was no match for the strength of the Flame Demon, but he wasn¡¯t trying to hold his ground. He went skidding along the ground with the blow ¨C around the outside edge of the room. The creature ended its swing, and Jace fired off his grapnel, using the momentum from the horizontal, sweeping strike to propel himself in a dizzying spiral towards the creature¡¯s head once more. Holding his sword out, he carved into its head and face ¨C around and around ¨C and made sure to let out enough line that he could slice into its neck. Practically becoming a blender of slicing blades that carved deep and spread the [Rending] effect. Only when it had begun to move ¨C painfully slowly thanks to the purple miasma of his Dark Matter Blade ¨C towards grabbing him did he release the grapnel and land back on the platform. The creature let out a weak, gurgling noise before it collapsed and sank into the lava. ¡°Dust it.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 1500] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay Dhulgon, Flame Demon of Ash Peak.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> A golden pedestal appeared in the center of the lava pool, with a small platform extending from it to the ledge. Jace walked over and grabbed the sphere. 29 dungeon cores. ¡°Let¡¯s merge those 3 Epic (Equipment Augmentation) Boons together.¡± He sank against the wall and took deep, sucking breaths as the exhaustion swept over him and the adrenaline that was holding it at bay began to fade. ¡°Yup! One Legendary (Equipment Augmentation) Boon created from merging lower rarity rewards.¡± ¡°And levels. 2 levels, right?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± ¡°I need something that does energy reduction. Is that possible? Like¡­a generic energy cost reduction?¡± ¡°Let us find out!¡± <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 45] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) [Astral Annihilator], Dark Matter Dart [Exploding] (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3) [Distant], Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10), Dark Energy Beam (Rank 12), Dark Matter Mending (Rank 4) [Vampiric], Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 2), Starfire Stride (1/day), Arbiter''s Anathema (1/day), Shadow Nebula Smokescreen (1/day), Archmage Geomancy (1/day), Archmage Hydromancy (1/day) Stardust: 120 Equipment: (Returning) Starstorm Sword, (Medium / Snowguard / Burnguard) Devastation Armor, Ghostlight Grapnel Arm, Anathema Arm, (Overclocked) Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, x2 All-Seeing Dragon''s Eye, (Heavy) Venture Pack, survival meals (x30), enhanced canteen, optimized medical kit, flint bar, flashlight, Omnitech prosthetic repair module (x1 charges), (Restful) Wildercloth tent, Devilsram wool bedroll Boons: Common (Equipment), Uncommon (Equipment), Epic (Secret Cache), Legendary (Equipment Augmentation) <<<<<>>>>> Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 1) - Any Skill the user uses has its energy cost reduced by 5% Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 2) - Any Skill the user uses has its energy cost reduced by 10% <<<<<>>>>> ¡°It caps out at Rank 10 and 50% reduction,¡± Ollie stated as he swam in little circles around Jace¡¯s shoulders. ¡°It would be wise to prioritize this new Skill over dumping more Ranks into Dark Energy Beam.¡± ¡°Agreed,¡± Jace said as he reached into his pack and pulled out the enhanced canteen and sucked down some of the cool, crisp water inside. ¡°I want to use that Legendary Boon also. But I¡¯m curious ¨C each All-Seeing Dragon¡¯s Eye counts as its own item, right? They can¡¯t be¡­I don¡¯t know¡­grouped up?¡± ¡°Hmm. Let me query the System.¡± Ollie¡¯s eyes went black, and he went still. Jace kept resting and tore open one of the survival meals. Ollie¡¯s eyes snapped back to their starry blue, ¡°Normally? No. But Xera is going to¡­hack the System, for lack of a better word, to merge them together as a singular, plural item. Do not ask me how she will do it ¨C breaking rules of reality is what The Cosmic System enables.¡± Jace nodded and swallowed down his mouthful of sweet, tangy, goopy food. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s use the Legendary Boon on them if she¡¯s going to merge them.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Legendary (Equipment Augmentation).] [Target Equipment: All-Seeing Dragon¡¯s Eyes.] [Augmenting.] [Result: (Terrifying) All-Seeing Dragon¡¯s Eyes.] [Description: The Terrifying (Equipment Augmentation) makes any entity of a lower Tier than the user incapable of harming them, provided they are kept within field of view.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Holy shit,¡± Jace whispered. ¡°So, if I¡¯m on this world as a Tier 3 Aspirant¡­they can¡¯t do anything to hurt me unless I¡¯m not looking at them.¡± He glanced to Ollie who was nodding sagely, ¡°Right?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie said as he gave a little thumbs-up. ¡°And entity categorizes anything. Even dumb slimes on magic worlds, or robots on technology worlds. If you keep them in sight.¡± ¡°That¡¯s what the invisibility is for,¡± Jace replied as he stood up. ¡°They can¡¯t see me, but I can see them¡­I need more of those Legendary rarity Boons. Let¡¯s go get more Complexes.¡± Chapter 50 – Can you steam a dragon?
Renlas crested the largest cliff thus far and was huffing in deep breaths of air. Reaching down, he helped Bellor up the last bit of the way. ¡°Thanks,¡± Bellor grumbled. The two laid down and sucked in air. A message popped up in Renlas¡¯ vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Your inquiry has resulted in the following information:] [The entity you saw is an Aspirant named Flicker.] [Cosmic Power: Unknown.] [Faction: Unknown.] [Tier: 2.] [Threat assessment: Proceed with caution. Ambush if possible. Try to capture for interrogation.] <<<<<>>>>> Really? They want us to capture him? Renlas sighed and cursed the System for the third time since they started their climb. It would be a lot easier if we didn¡¯t have to go through our data analysts. Becoming a Signer for the Black Hole Conclave meant that, in the end, they were at odds with a mysterious individual named X who ran The Cosmic System. If the universe was all fed to oblivion, as Renlas, Bellor, and their faction sought ¨C then the System would end as well. And this X person could recall Wayfinders. So, they had done so. Renlas and Bellor ¨C and every other Conclave Signer or Ascendant ¨C had no Wayfinder. They had to interface the old-fashioned way: someone sitting at a computer and manually searching. This X couldn¡¯t lock out their faction¡¯s access, but she made life much harder. If I had a Wayfinder, I could use these Boons and find the Complex entrances. He could only use Boons while in The Cosmic Corridor or The Eternal City, and even then he had to go through one of the Conclave¡¯s Civilian contacts to interface with the System. The same went for spending Stardust to level up. ¡°Brother? Did you get that?¡± Bellor asked. ¡°Yes,¡± Renlas replied as he sat up from his brief respite. ¡°Top of the mountains seems the best place to get the lay of the land, and maybe spot this Aspirant we have to capture.¡± He stood up and offered his brother a hand up. ¡°Unknown faction, unknown Cosmic Power¡­I will not lie, I am concerned.¡± Renlas jeered, ¡°Scared? That¡¯s not like you. Are you going to forsake oblivion?¡± Bellor pushed him back and growled in response, ¡°No.¡± ¡°Good. We climb.¡±
Jace shot his grapnel up the mountain face. Why do most of the entrance have to be on the far side? he thought. I came at this from the wrong way. Planting his feet and shoving a hand into the mountainside, he re-launched the grapnel and continued his rapid ascent. All the Complexes for this volcano tile had their entrances on the non-sheer and more-filled-with-lava side of the mountain ¨C the Western side. Up to the top. Maybe I¡¯ll spot the World Pillar up there. And probably another guardian like the last one. Let¡¯s take stock. He only had Archmage Hydromancy and Starfire Stride for his once per day Skills. Starfire Stride is useless on a volcano, but the hydromancy is going to be valuable. As he kept ascending, he took mental stock of his supplies. At this rate, I¡¯ll have enough food but will need to find a new water source. I can always use hydromancy to fill it up if needed. Ollie popped out of his collar as they got atop the highest of the mountain peaks. The gold and silver skies above the two was almost within reach here at the top of the world. Below the two was an enormous caldera ¨C easily a quarter-mile across. And in the center was an enormous stone platform with a World Pillar atop it. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 3.] [Number of foes to clear out: 1.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Defeat the World Pillar Guardian.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Secret Cache) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Fire dragon,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°The strongest of its species here on Nihilethelea-¡± ¡°Not sure how you say it perfectly every time,¡± Jace muttered as he scanned the environment. Ollie chuckled and swam around in front of him, ¡°Well, it is easy when you are an AI and cannot make speech mistakes.¡± ¡°Any suggestions on dealing with this?¡± ¡°You can recall your sword from any distance. I would use Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3) and just hide up here, throwing your sword over and over until the [Rending] effect kills it.¡± ¡°Smart play,¡± Jace replied. ¡°Especially given the Tier difference.¡± That, and I really do not want to get near that lava during a fight. Jace did not know much about science or how the heat would react to his body if unshielded ¨C but he knew that his armor would be no match for the flaming pit. ¡°Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending].¡± He pulled back his arm and prepared to throw ¨C but stopped. A pair of burly, armored people came up over the lip on the Northern side of the caldera. They were speaking ¨C Jace could barely make out the slight noise. Zooming in with his prosthetic eyes, he could clearly make out the Black Hole symbols on their hands ¨C and the telltale black fingers that marked them as Signers for the Conclave. ¡°Ollie, you see them?¡± ¡°Yup.¡± Ollie frowned. ¡°Black Hole folk.¡± He grinned devilishly, ¡°Want to be really dastardly?¡±
¡°Look at that,¡± Bellor said breathlessly. ¡°A whole lake of liquid flames!¡± If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Renlas smirked, ¡°The goddess looks upon us favorably! And look! A flame-serpent! This must be a sign!¡± Neither of them were affected by the heat, having grown up on a just-as-hot desert world. Their religion foretold sacred places where naught but pure destruction was produced ¨C and this lake of flames surely fit the description of those sacred grounds. And the existence of a flame-serpent curled around a stone pillar ¨C almost like it was protecting its clutch ¨C was a sign from the goddess. This was a place that should not be harmed. It was sacrosanct. ¡°Come, let us seek the blessings of the flame-serpent,¡± Bellor said reverently. He backed up and leapt ¨C fueling his leap with a gravity-shifting Skill. Renlas jumped after him, and the two approached the enormous creature. A screen flickered across both of their vision warning them of the Complex¡¯s existence; but neither heeded the instruction to slay this proud, mighty creature. As it raised its head and looked down upon the brothers, they both knelt and bowed their heads. ¡°Almighty serpent! We see you!¡± ¡°We see you!¡± Bellor said right after Renlas had finished the statement. ¡°Grant us your gifts, almighty servant of oblivion!¡± Renlas continued. ¡°Provide us with your mastery over flame, that we may wreak destruction.¡± The serpent stood up and towered over the two ¨C the shadow from above was proof enough of that. And it roared. Bellor slapped his hands over his ears ¨C but Renlas was unmoving. A rock amid a stream. ¡°Forgive any trespass!¡± he shouted as he shuffled backward and signaled for Bellor to do the same. He did so, and the two moved away on their hands and knees. The flame-serpent settled down and curled back up around the pillar. ¡°It does not look like it is interested in granting us a blessing,¡± Bellor whispered. ¡°This place is sacred. The creature is not. Or else it would see our devotion and reward us.¡± Renlas nodded, ¡°We should lea-¡± Both were cut off as the flame-serpent roared and jolted upright as quickly as its bulky and scale-covered mass allowed. It reared up and looked at them, opening its maw. What is that? Bellor thought as he saw a trickle of purple and crimson light from atop the flame-serpent¡¯s head. ¡°Incoming! Black Hole¡¯s Embrace!¡± Renlas shouted. A sphere of solid black appeared in front of him, and the torrent of flames that would have surely slain the two was sucked into the singularity. The flaming stream became a river, and then a tsunami ¨C more and more liquid fire shot out, and the event horizon around the edge of the singularity began to fill to its brim. ¡°Brother! Quickly!¡± Bellor nodded, ¡°Black Hole¡¯s Embrace!¡± His singularity appeared next to and merged with Renlas¡¯, and the black sphere grew as the new gravity well was added to it. ¡°We can outlast this assault!¡± Bellor shouted over the roaring blaze as he felt exhaustion slowly began to wash over him. Renlas reached down and pulled a large, spiked mace from his waist. ¡°This may be a sacred creature, but it seeks our destruction! We cannot submit to oblivion before we bring it to others!¡± ¡°Oblivion awaits!¡± The fanatic Bellor shouted in response, reaching back and stringing his large bow. ¡°Let us slay the beast!¡±
¡°Well, look at that. It did work,¡± Ollie stated. Jace nodded and his sword warped into his hand. He had prodded the beast with a sword-throw to get it angry. He saw the dragon¡¯s flame run out, and the two squat men engaged with it in combat. The one in front had a spiked mace and was swinging it with force; shattering scales, bones, and pulverizing the meat underneath. ¡°It¡¯s amplified,¡± he muttered. The other squat man was drawing back a bowstring, and a singularity appeared on the tip of his arrow. Loosing it, the shaft flew forward and impacted the dragon, causing it to roar in pain as local space warped and began to suck some of the flesh in. ¡°Can¡¯t let them win,¡± Jace muttered as he thought of how best to word the effect. ¡°Just weaken the dragon for me.¡±
¡°Duck!¡± Bellor shouted. Renlas complied, ducking as an arrow imbued with the power of oblivion sailed into spot where cracked scales provided a gap for the projectile. ¡°Now!¡± Renlas slammed his spiked mace on the back of the arrow, driving it further into the creature. The monster roared and tried to swipe down at him. ¡°Oblivion¡¯s Ward!¡± he shouted as a sphere of material accumulated by his earlier singularity was returned from beyond and formed a disc-like barrier that the creature crashed into. The barrier held, and Renlas dashed forward underneath it, getting under the beast as he swung up into the softer belly. He could see the slight indent where the singularity from the arrow had worked its way to. The creature screamed, and then the world began to grow hot. And harder to see. Foggier. And breathing became more difficult. What in the-
¡°I want to dump as much water as possible into this lava pool. Hydromancy ¨C activate.¡± Jace ducked back behind the rocky outcropping as a geyser of steam erupted from the caldera. He could feel the heat despite being out of the direct area and had to move himself further down until the temperature stabilized. ¡°That should cook anything up there,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°The fire dragon might be fully immune ¨C I don¡¯t know. Fire and lava? No effect. Superheated air filled with liquid? Maybe.¡± Jace saw the enormous plume ascend, and only when it had faded into the sky above did he retract his grapnel and peer over the edge. The sight that he saw was not surprising given the information that Ollie had just provided. The two stout men had been cooked alive; steamed while in their armored shells just like the foul crabs that Jace was occasionally able to pick out of the polluted rivers he swam in during his youth. The dragon was unaffected ¨C but was obviously very, very weak. And the caldera was still steaming ¨C but only a little bit. The top-most layer of lava had hardened into rocks, and Jace could see parts of it bubbling upward as the insatiable inferno continued under the surface. Let¡¯s quickly kill it! He threw the sword over and over again, scoring hits that built up the [Rending] effect. Within a minute, the damage had accumulated enough, and the monster collapsed. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Defeat the World Pillar Guardian.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Secret Cache) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace worked his way down and dashed across the heated rocks. ¡°Ollie, dust the whole lot.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 2030] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°2000 for the dragon, and 15 for each of those Aspirants,¡± Ollie stated as the forms turned to shimmering starlight and flashed into his paw. ¡°2150 Stardust is what you currently sit at.¡± Jace nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s see how many dungeon cores they had,¡± he replied. Walking to where the corpses once were, he picked up the golden orb. Judging by the size, and using his own knowledge of his dungeon core in the bag, he knew that there were 10 more cores to add to his. Puts me at 39. I¡¯ve blown the record out of the water. After putting it into his bag, Jace walked up to the pillar, ¡°If you¡¯d do the honors.¡± Ollie bowed slightly and swam over, ¡°My pleasure.¡± He tapped his paw to the pillar right next to Jace¡¯s hand. There was a surge of red light that pulsed and then raced into Jace¡¯s palm. <<<<<>>>>> Archmage Pyromancy - Enables a Pyromancy spell of the highest order. <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Same activation phrase?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Yup!¡± ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s move on to the next Complex.¡± He rushed over the starting-to-crack-apart, hardened shell of obsidian over the caldera. Making it to the lip, Ollie pulled up the map. ¡°About two-hundred feet below us there is another Complex.¡± Jace planted his hand, extended the grapnel, and let himself down the phantom cord. Chapter 51 – Another tunnel…and a secret tunnel!
There¡¯s 9 more Complexes on this volcano tile, and I¡¯m at 39. That would put me at 48 if I cleared them all, Jace thought. Way more than the prior record of 22. ¡°Why so few?¡± Jace asked Ollie as he crept through another lava-tube; the stream of liquid passing by him just like the last one he had entered. He had deactivated the Dark Matter Cloak, and had his Dark Matter Shield active at (Rank 2). ¡°So few what?¡± Ollie was back to popping into and out of the lava stream playfully. ¡°Dungeon cores for the last record-holder. I¡¯m almost at double what they got.¡± ¡°That would be because they were not as bloodthirsty the last time around,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°Or, rather, after getting a good amount of dungeon cores, they retreated to the starting peninsula and the ¡®safe zone¡¯ of Double-A¡¯s city. You could call them cowardly.¡± ¡°But that doesn¡¯t explain why the ones who fought and got cores from each other didn¡¯t keep doing that to get more.¡± ¡°Ah. Well, the last time, it was limited to Tier 2 Aspirants and Ascendants. Ascendants really do not like getting on each other¡¯s bad side, because they do not want to risk their immortal lives. That explains the lack of interpersonal combat. And, also why you rarely see Ascendants in the field ¨C they send their Signers to deal with issues.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°So my killing one for the Black Hole Conclave-¡± ¡°-Will have sent a message,¡± Ollie stated as he came to a stop in the lava and bobbed in place, his head just above the flow. ¡°You can bet that they are trying to figure out who you are.¡± ¡°And let me guess, Double-A wanted us to kill each other for his entertainment.¡± ¡°A probable guess,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°He could be monitoring the world constantly ¨C it is his world after all.¡± Makes me hate him even more, Jace thought. It¡¯s just like the corpos on Earth. Pitting us against each other for their amusement. He had never gone to the skin-pits himself, but he had heard stories. Street folk who were desperate enough for food, creds, or medical care would put themselves into a series of gladiatorial matches for the amusement of the elite. Bloodsport. Some of the competitors were put into service for the corpos, and in exchange for food and shelter, they were turned into living nightmares of machinery and flesh. He had never been so desperate but had heard of others who had gone in to provide for their families on the streets and vanished into the skin-pits forever. And this Archmage Ascendant is doing the same exact thing. Just pitting us against each other for his sick entertainment. Jace didn¡¯t feel wrong for the lives he had taken whilst on this world. The cat-man had taken his eye and could have killed him ¨C in fact, he got damned close to death. And the two Black Hole Signers¡­well, they worshipped oblivion. If anything, Jace had just sent them onto their desired destination. If they were bad for The Cosmic System, that was enough for Jace to justify the lethal force. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 3.] [Number of foes to clear out: 6.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Defeat the obsidian sentries.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Secret Cache) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> That¡¯ll put me at 3 of that rarity. I can upgrade them to one Legendary, and then use it. But¡­traps might be wherever it leads me to. That put Jace on edge, as he knew from what Ollie had said way back on Velenar Prime regarding the Hidden Location and Secret Cache varieties. He gulped, and Ollie flew over in front of him. ¡°They are just rock sentries. You got this!¡± ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Jace replied as he trailed off and focused on the task at hand. The room expanded and like the cistern he had previously been inside, this one had a lava pit in the center. But it was much, much smaller, maybe a foot across. Most of the room was the simple, circular chamber which appeared to be a dead end. Or it would, if not for his All-Seeing Dragon¡¯s Eyes. He saw the slight, silvery and golden glow around the ¡®end¡¯ of the chamber. Ah. Sentries. They¡¯re guarding this place. He scanned the edge of the room but did not see any sign of these obsidian constructs. ¡°Look out!¡± Ollie shouted as forms dropped from above. Jace raised his shield as one of the objects slammed down onto him, and he fell flat on his ass. The creature that had landed on him rolled to the side and stood up in a clunky, robotic fashion. It was a statue of obsidian ¨C now with some chips and flecks on the surface ¨C in the style of an armored fighter. A pair of greaves, a cuirass and armored skirt, a short sword, and a shield were all topped by a helmet that had a plume of rubies. The face was completely flat and blank save for a single, green emerald that acted as an eye. ¡°They are slow, but strong!¡± Ollie stated as he swam around the space. The creatures began to circle up around Jace. ¡°No shit,¡± Jace replied as he backpedaled and got out of the encirclement with ease. But movement here is limited. The roof isn¡¯t nearly as tall as that demon-thing¡¯s chamber, so I can¡¯t just grapple around the room. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3) [Distant]. He felt tired and almost slipped with his footing ¨C barely dodging a violent blow that carved the floor next to him and would surely have cut right through his armor. The black dot appeared in the center of the room, just floating above the tiny lava pool. Now, to just get them all closer. Jace circled and kited the constructs ¨C who moved surprisingly fast despite the mechanical nature of their form ¨C into the radius of the mine. Detonate. There was a pulse of invisible energy, and gravity was removed from the sentries as they floated upward. 30 seconds, Jace thought. They began flailing, and Jace kept his foot-claws embedded in the ground as he ran across the chamber, slashing each of them to start the bleed. The first pass took six seconds, and he performed four more dashes across the room, slashing each of the foes once ¨C all their limbs. As the Dark Energy Mine ended, the sentries crashed to the ground. The purple miasma had spread, and they moved ponderously. The crimson [Rending] had spread as well, and Jace just paced the outside edge of the room as the foes tried to walk towards him. Almost as one, they collapsed to the floor of the chamber. ¡°Dust them.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 1500] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Defeat the obsidian sentries.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Secret Cache) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Now at 3650 Stardust,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°I want to level up. More Ranks into that Energy Cost Reduction, and lets convert those 3 Epic rarity Boons into a Legendary.¡± ¡°Roger! Coming up!¡± <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 48] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) [Astral Annihilator], Dark Matter Dart [Exploding] (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3) [Distant], Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10), Dark Energy Beam (Rank 12), Dark Matter Mending (Rank 4) [Vampiric], Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 5), Starfire Stride (1/day), Arbiter''s Anathema (1/day), Shadow Nebula Smokescreen (1/day), Archmage Geomancy (1/day), Archmage Hydromancy (1/day), Archmage Pyromancy (1/day) Stardust: 650 Equipment: (Returning) Starstorm Sword, (Medium / Snowguard / Burnguard) Devastation Armor, Ghostlight Grapnel Arm, Anathema Arm, (Overclocked) Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, (Terrifying) All-Seeing Dragon''s Eyes, (Heavy) Venture Pack, survival meals (x29), enhanced canteen, optimized medical kit, flint bar, flashlight, Omnitech prosthetic repair module (x1 charges), (Restful) Wildercloth tent, Devilsram wool bedrollSupport creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. Boons: Common (Equipment), Uncommon (Equipment), Legendary (Secret Cache) <<<<<>>>>> Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 3) - Any Skill the user uses has its energy cost reduced by 15% Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 4) - Any Skill the user uses has its energy cost reduced by 20% Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 5) - Any Skill the user uses has its energy cost reduced by 25% <<<<<>>>>> 25% reduction is pretty awesome. I should be able to use Dark Energy Beam without exhausting myself fully. He went over and grabbed the orb that appeared on the pedestal. And that¡¯s 40. Jace smiled as he looked over to the shimmering, magical wall. ¡°Question, Ollie.¡± ¡°Go for it,¡± the Wayfinder replied as he swam around Jace¡¯s shoulders, splashing in phantom nebula that glimmered silvery blue. ¡°I know there¡¯s some type of¡­magically hidden thing on that wall.¡± ¡°Go touch it with the Anathema Arm. Remember, just touching magic and magitech can result in ¡®shutting off¡¯ those effects. But you have to want it.¡± Jace walked up and put his hand on the shimmering wall, ¡°So I just say I want this magic to end-¡± He almost fell forward as the wall suddenly vanished. Regaining his balance, his vision shifted to the purple hue as he stared down a dark tunnel. ¡°Well, that¡¯s one question answered.¡± ¡°I wonder where this goes?¡± Ollie asked as he floated ahead of Jace. ¡°Before that,¡± Jace replied. ¡°This is a hidden location¡­but I didn¡¯t use a Boon to find it.¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°When you stumble across some hidden place, it no longer becomes a ¡®target¡¯ for the Hidden Location Boon. Whatever you find inside is¡­what you find. The higher rarity of that specific Boon means that you are going to be directed to a Hidden Location that has rarer items within. If you used a (Common) Hidden Location Boon, for instance, you would find some not-well-hidden place that probably has some basic supplies.¡± He frowned slightly, and swam more slowly through the lava. ¡°We got lucky on Velenar Prime.¡± ¡°What if I used that Secret Cache Boon? Would it¡­create a hidden vault?¡± ¡°No,¡± Ollie replied. He turned in place and returned to Jace, splashing and creating cascading starlight around himself. ¡°It is like Hidden Location. If you already knew about, say, a secret vault ¨C the value of what was inside would not change. The Boon just reveals the location of a Secret Cache with commensurate value to the rarity of the Boon used. ¡± ¡°Let¡¯s use that Secret Cache Boon,¡± Jace replied glancing down the hallway. ¡°Hopefully, there is some hidden vault inside this place.¡± ¡°Roger!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Legendary (Secret Cache).] [Uploading information to Wayfinder.] <<<<<>>>>> Ollie¡¯s eyes flashed bright silver for a moment, and he pointed down the hallway. ¡°Oooh! It is definitely in this place! But¡­remember, traps can be in Secret Caches and Hidden Locations.¡± That caused a pit to form in Jace¡¯s stomach, and he gulped audibly as the vivid memory of the turret shooting into him and his near-death experiences on Velenar Prime came rushing back. Instinctively, he backed out of the entrance of the tunnel and crouched next to it. He could feel his heart racing, and his breath came in short gasps as he replayed the experience over and over again. He swore he could feel the same dripping, warm, sticky feeling of blood on his torso, and looking down he felt a sense of relief as it was just his imagination. ¡°Hey¡­what is wrong?¡± Ollie asked as he stilled and flew in front of Jace, ¡®landing¡¯ on the ground and ¡®placing¡¯ a paw on Jace¡¯s knee. ¡°Everything okay?¡± Jace tried to respond, but his mouth went dry, and he could not respond despite trying to speak. It seemed like the world was closing in around him.
The center of the universe was not a hospitable place. Nothing should be able to survive within the singularity that comprised the middle of everything. And yet, Troxanir did. They stood on the precipice of eternity, staring into the center of the dot that represented the joining of all existence. A screen appeared and flicked across their vision. <<<<<>>>>> [My lord. We have unfortunate news.] [The same Aspirant that stopped our efforts on Velenar Prime, who slew Brom Farkonen, has slain two of our most promising Signers.] [We are seeking your blessing to send a higher Tier Ascendant after this individual whom we only know as ¡®Flicker¡¯. Their Cosmic Power is an unknown manifestation.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Not one of the existing types?¡± Troxanir asked aloud, the System message box filling as they spoke. ¡°Are you sure?¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Yes, almighty one.] <<<<<>>>>> Interesting¡­ ¡°And have you ruled out Dark Matter?¡± <<<<<>>>>> [What now?¡±] <<<<<>>>>> Troxanir sighed and rubbed their face with four of their countless tentacled appendages that popped out from its robed, humanoid figure ¨C a physical manifestation or avatar they had taken on to more easily interface with the System. ¡°It looks like a purple light, with squares and other shapes in a dance.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Ah. I¡¯ll check the logs¡­] [Yeah, that looks right.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°X is behind it,¡± Troxanir growled as rage filled their every syllable. As it growled out, the event horizon¡¯s edges began to shake and tremble. The whole fabric of reality shook as the space-time altering event quivered at the emotion filling his voice. ¡°I will not allow this to continue. Do whatever you must to identify this Dark Matter user, this ¡®Flicker¡¯.¡± The rage faded and was replaced with monotone, cool, calculating malice. ¡°Once we identify the person, we can find their weakness. Mortals who are not dedicated to oblivion always build connections ¨C we will exploit that. They will either bend the knee and help us with our goals¡­or we will crush them with the might of my consumption.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Forgive me for asking, my lord.] [Why would you want them on our side?] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Quite simple, underling.¡± Troxanir touched the edge of the event horizon and stabilized it from their earlier outburst. The stellar object returned to its smooth, calm circle. ¡°In order of most ¡®quality¡¯ matter to feed into Oblivion, we go with worlds, then stars, and then anything else we can get our hands on. Dark Matter¡­well, that comprises most of the universe. It is the lowest in terms of quality¡­but there is so much of it that it more than makes up for the lacking quality.¡± Troxanir licked their lips with a black, fleshy, barbed tongue that ripped and flayed the skin before that sealed over. They grinned, ¡°But due to the nature of Dark Energy that accompanies the mass¡­it cannot be consumed. Except, when a Dark Matter Cosmic Power user controls it. They can force it to do things that it normally would not. If we can bring this ¡®Flicker¡¯ to our side, then they will be able to accelerate our plans by an almost incomprehensible amount.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [What if they are already Signed?] <<<<<>>>>> Troxanir laughed. A maniacal, hysterical laugh. ¡°Oblivion comes for all. We will kill them ¨C whoever they are. Eventually, our plans will come to fruition.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [¡­Forgive me the impudence, my lord. But one more question.] [Couldn¡¯t a Dark Matter user¡­if they were strong enough¡­put a ¡®seal¡¯ of Dark Energy around Oblivion¡¯s Maw? Keep anything else from entering while still letting it persist?] <<<<<>>>>> Troxanir felt an emotion they had not felt since first being constrained and given will by The Cosmic System wrangling it into a manipulatable form. Not since they had encountered The Architects and the nebulous figure only known as X. Not since Star Father of the Star Council had almost acquired the upper hand in their last battle millennia ago. Troxanir felt uncertainty. Perhaps¡­that is a possibility I had not considered. They chided themselves as the tentacles thwipped around their form. If I were X¡­I¡¯d be training this Aspirant up to do just that. Tighten the cage around me. Troxanir growled and took deep, calming breaths to stabilize his being at the center of it all. ¡°If we find this Aspirant¡­do not kill them. Show them the paradise that lies beyond. We will convince them¡­and if not; then we kill them.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [As you command.] Chapter 52 – Fear and loathing in dark places
Jace felt his breath coming in shorter and shorter gasps. Ollie flew in front of him and filled his vision. ¡°Hey. Come on. You¡¯re better than this.¡± ¡°I¡­I-I can¡¯t¡­¡± Jace whispered as the memory of being shot replayed over and over in his mind. The excruciating pain. The blood. Almost dying. He gripped the sides of his head and shut his eyes, ¡°I¡­I don¡¯t want to-to almost die again.¡± This was different from fighting the Vyrknadine and losing his arm ¨C that was just a limb, and he¡¯d lost two before that. That whole experience of being shot was something he had never dealt with ¨C and he was not able to drive the memory from his head. The loud bang, the flash of light, the pain- He heard Ollie¡¯s voice. Deep, soothing, almost tender in a way. ¡°You will be fine.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t know that,¡± Jace whispered in response. ¡°I¡¯ve almost died. Over and over.¡± He looked up at Ollie and could feel a few tears trickling down his face. ¡°I¡­I need to live. For her. I have to bring her back¡­¡± Ollie nodded and small, blue ripples of starlight cascaded from around his little neck as if he was submerged in the cosmos themselves. ¡°Just take a breather. You¡¯ve been going nonstop since we arrived here. Do your breathing exercise from before.¡± Jace closed his eyes and tried to focus on his breathing as his mentor had taught him all those years ago. But as he tried to draw in breath, the loud bang of the gunshot echoed through his mind and he opened his eyes in a panic. Scanning the room, he found no sign of what made the noise. ¡°Was tha-¡± Ollie flew over to the entrance of the tunnel leading deeper into the mountain, ¡°That definitely came from down there. Analyzing the sound. Standby¡­¡± His eyes flashed ¡®on¡¯, ¡°It is a timer. This secret entrance will only be open for a limited duration. We have to hurry. Come on, let us go.¡± Jace peeked around the corner into the tunnel, feeling his arm shaking. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I ca-¡± Ollie flew over and slapped him. Literally, he could feel Ollie¡¯s touch. What the- ¡°Snap out of it!¡± Ollie shouted angrily. ¡°You have survived. Keep surviving. You are stronger than you were before! You have not faced a challenge you have not defeated yet! Sure, a few setback-¡± ¡°How did you hit me?¡± Jace asked as he cupped his jaw. Not in pain, more in shock. Wayfinders can¡¯t interact with the world outside of The Cosmic System. That¡¯s what he told me. Not unless we¡¯re in the Starlit Sea. Ollie¡¯s frown became a grimace, ¡°I¡­¡± then, a look of confusion. Then, realization. ¡°Oh. Oh! It is because you maxed out Cosmic Infusion, which sort of ¡®fuses¡¯ you with your Cosmic Power, and therefore makes you more ¡®tangible¡¯ to The Cosmic System¡¯s elements. Myself included.¡± He frowned, ¡°That does mean other Wayfinders could touch you ¨C but they would not pose any real threat, just like I do not pose a threat.¡± Jace reached out and tried to touch Ollie. To his surprise, he could feel the soft fur under his hand. I¡¯ve never touched an animal before, he thought. Well, not counting the predators hunting me on that other world. The feel of fur under his fingers brought him some sense of calm. It was¡­soothing, in a way. He felt the tension in his chest begin to relax a little bit, and his breathing became calmer. Ollie seemed frozen in place, unsure of what to do. ¡°Uhm¡­huh. Humans when contacting cute, adorable animals ¨C like my current form ¨C feel a release of oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. Those are feel-good chemicals in your brain tha-¡± Jace grabbed Ollie and pulled him in for a hug. The warm fur and slight tickle of his whiskers made him chuckle, and the anxiety and fears of the traps melted away slowly as he snuggled the fuzzy companion. ¡°Thank you...Ollie.¡± ¡°For what?¡± he asked, muffled by Jace¡¯s torso. ¡°For keeping me alive...and just being here for me.¡± Jace let Ollie go, and the otter floated a short distance away, a bashful look on his face. Jace suppressed a chuckle at the slightly puffed-up otter. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for that just now.¡± ¡°The grabbing me or the whole ¡®going through a mental break¡¯ part?¡± Ollie began smoothing his fur down again. ¡°The mental break part,¡± Jace replied. ¡°I¡­getting shot and almost dying was just, so different from any other near-death experience I¡¯ve had. It¡¯s just sticking around in my mind. I hadn¡¯t thought about it until that-¡± he pointed to the hallway, ¡°-brought it rushing back. The idea of traps since the last one was so deadly.¡± He shook his head, ¡°I¡¯ve dealt with them in the few times I ripped off corpo-shops with other street folk ¨C but they weren¡¯t lethal. Just stunned anyone who got caught by it.¡± ¡°Not a huge surprise that you have some PTSD. When we get back to The Eternal City, we will find you a therapist to help you resolve these issues.¡± Jace felt his confidence returning little by little as he talked with Ollie. I can do this. I¡¯ve survived so much so far. I¡¯ll keep surviving. ¡°Okay. Let¡¯s get in there and get that Legendary reward. But first-¡± He drew his sword to use it as a prod on the ground, walls, and ceiling, and also pulled out his flashlight. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3). The barrier thrummed around him. No more surprise damage. ¡°Why use a flashlight? You have me and your Cosmic Power vision.¡± Jace turned the flashlight on and held it close to the ground, along the surface. He spotted the telltale sign of slightly-raised floor tiles ¨C just like the pressure-plate fry-traps that were used in so many buildings back on Earth. Standard security tech; stepping on it would cause you to get jolted. ¡°You can use a beam of light to spot issues more easily. Like that.¡± Jace threw the blade at the tile, and once it impacted, an enormous, scything blade swung across the hallway before retracting into the wall. He willed the blade to return. ¡°How long do we have to loot this place?¡± Bang, the sound echoed again, and Ollie winced. ¡°Those seem to mark out minutes. I do not know how long we have.¡± Jace worked his way down the tunnel, using the hand-crank, rechargeable flashlight to spot any inconsistencies that his vision could not pick up. The dark vision and All-Seeing Dragon¡¯s Eyes would have eventually caught the slight chips in the stone tiles, or the very, very minor ¡®lift¡¯ some of them had on the edges. But the flashlight beam held at a flat angle would reveal those flaws almost instantly, as the shadows that filled those little, tell-tale pockets stood out immediately in the harsh light. He had to crank the flashlight a few times and trigger some hallway-wide traps with his sword before recalling it to his hand ¨C but he made steady progress. Every minute, the bang noise sounded off. After the fifth one in total ¨C five minutes since he opened the passage ¨C he arrived in a large, circular chamber. The walls were covered with murals that depicted some ancient history. Ollie flew along the wall, but Jace held perfectly still as he scanned every inch of the room ¨C floor, ceiling, walls. ¡°This tells the history of the world,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°But I already knew all of this from The Cosmic System. Nothing new in that regard.¡± He pointed to a small, recessed, stone hemisphere at the center of the roof, ¡°That is the Secret Cache.¡± Jace fired his grapple line up to the ceiling and willed himself to ascend. He was next to the stone half-sphere, and feeling around with the Anathema Arm, found a small, hidden trigger. This could be a trap. But I have the Dark Matter Shield surrounding me. He pressed it. The sphere opened and revealed items inside. Two of them. A necklace with a heavy, metal amulet strung through the silver-colored but not-silver chain, and a ring that was a singular, white, metal band with no ornamentation. Swinging back and forth, he launched himself to the entrance he had come in from. ¡°Anything else in here?¡± he asked Ollie. Ollie dipped into and out of the walls, ¡°Nope! Nothing hidden!¡±This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it Jace nodded and made his way out of the tunnel, avoiding every trap he had identified. He let out a sigh of relief once he arrived at the chamber with the slight, bubbling pool. ¡°What are these?¡± Ollie floated over and his eyes went black for a few moments before snapping back on. ¡°Ah. The necklace is called a Mind¡¯s Eye Amulet. Wearing it means that you can¡¯t be subjected to mind-altering, reading, or influencing effects. Really handy.¡± Jace put it around his neck and tucked it under his armored torso covering. ¡°And the ring?¡± ¡°It is a Guardian¡¯s Loop. Those are useful for keeping people safe. Think of it like a limited-duration barrier from all harm. For an hour, each day, the user can will it to activate and be protected from everything ¡­well, except for your Anathema Arm or its built-in Skill. Or some other Skill-canceling¡­Skill¡± He chuckled, and his whiskers wiggled back and forth. ¡°We use the word ¡®Skill¡¯ a lot, do we not?¡± ¡°We do,¡± Jace replied as he turned it over in his hand. ¡°It is something called a ¡®bound¡¯ item. Once it is equipped, it will only work for the person who first put it on. If they remove it, and a year passes, then it can be re-bound.¡± ¡°I know someone who could use this.¡± ¡°You, silly.¡± Jace shook his head and popped the ring into his backpack. ¡°Shhiv.¡± Ollie stared at him, slack jawed. ¡°Why?¡± ¡°Because she can be used against me. I¡¯ve already made enemies of this Black Hole Conclave by taking out their drill, an Ascendant, and two Signers. If I were them, I¡¯d be trying to find my friends and using them to get to me.¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°Ah. Makes sense. What about Quinn and Greg?¡± Jace walked to the edge of the tunnel and began exiting the lava tube, ¡°Greg can take care of himself. Quinn is part of the Star Council, so presumably she has protection. But Shhiv doesn¡¯t. She¡¯s just a Civilian.¡± And I¡¯m not going to let her get hurt. They might have had a short time together, but he almost felt¡­responsible for her safety, given that she was a weakness of his that could be exploited. Chroma would be the same when I bring her back, Jace thought. Unless I¡¯m strong enough then that the Black Hole Conclave knows not to mess with me. I suppose I could build a reputation like that. Someone who shouldn¡¯t be fucked with. Ollie flew over and curled around Jace¡¯s neck ¨C not just hovering, but actually draping over his neck like a scarf. The feeling brought a small rush of happiness to Jace ¨C which now he knew was from some weird chemicals in his brain ¨C but he didn¡¯t care. He reached up and scratched Ollie¡¯s head, right behind the ears. ¡°Next Complex?¡± Ollie pointed and grinned, ¡°That way!¡±
Shhiv made it home and locked the door behind her. She had felt like someone was following her for days now. But she was safe in her abode. And, as a Civilian, she knew that no one could willfully harm her in Khrox or The Cosmic Corridor. She heard a voice behind her ¨C coming from her home-gym / living room combo. ¡°Ahem.¡± Shhiv wheeled around and bared her teeth ¨C but stopped and relaxed as she recognized the figure. ¡°Sera?¡± The black-skinned, purple-eyed, and four-armed woman was sitting on her weight bench, sipping something from a metal tube. ¡°Sorry for barging in. I¡¯ve been following you, trying to find the best time to talk. This seemed like a good time.¡± Shhiv nodded and laughed as she leaned against the door, ¡°I thought someone was stalking me.¡± ¡°Oh, it¡¯s not just me,¡± Sera stated as she crossed her legs and a pair of her arms under her ample chest. ¡°You¡¯re being hunted.¡± ¡°My siblings? Cousins?¡± Shhiv asked. ¡°I mean, I know I¡¯m low down the line of succession, but I-¡± ¡°Worse. No one knows it¡¯s you ¨C yet. But they¡¯ve narrowed it down to your workplace. Black Hole Conclave.¡± Shhiv felt an icy grip around her heart, right in her chest. ¡°I¡­they can¡¯t¡­they can¡¯t hurt me, though.¡± Sera frowned, ¡°True-¡± ¡°What do they want with me?!¡± ¡°You¡¯re Jace Seren¡¯s lover.¡± Shhiv stammered, ¡°I-how-when did he-how do you know?¡± Sera waved her hand, and hundreds of System screens appeared behind her, ¡°I¡¯m not just some ordinary Civilian. I cannot reveal the full truth¡­but let¡¯s just say I have some massive resources at my disposal.¡± She stood up. ¡°I don¡¯t mind you engaging how you wish with Jace ¨C but just by associating with him, you are in danger. And, if they get you, they can manipulate him.¡± Her voice shifted slightly and was filled with a determined sense of absolutism. ¡°That cannot happen.¡± Shhiv felt that fear festering in her stomach. A cold, solid lump that she struggled to keep down. Running to the bathroom, she retched into the shallow sink. Sera stood at the door behind her, ¡°Why?¡± Shhiv asked. ¡°Jace is special. He is the only current user of a certain, hidden Cosmic Power. The Conclave wants you to use as a bargaining chip. Right now, they only know you by your pod designation -zal. But, given enough time-¡± ¡°They¡¯ll find me,¡± Shhiv stated as she stepped into the hygiene station and let it clean her. Stepping out, she looked at the smaller but obviously well-connected woman. ¡°What do I do?¡± ¡°I want you to move in with Jace-¡± ¡°What?! It¡¯s way too soon for that. I didn¡¯t want to rush thi-¡± Seras sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose with one of her hands, ¡°Not into his room. The building he is in. I have full control of access to his floor. And he can configure it to have different apartments. You, Quinn, Greg and his fianc¨¦ ¨C anyone who Jace has a connection to. I¡¯m moving them all into one location where I can keep an eye on things and prevent the inter-Khrox-warp-system from taking people to it.¡± Shhiv racked her brain trying to process all of this. ¡°Inter-Khrox-warp-system?¡± she asked, clinging onto the only thing that seemed like an object she could cling to. ¡°How you get around in a minute by walking to a destination. I have the means to shut off access to certain locations.¡± ¡°What about my work?¡± ¡°You¡¯ll work for me, now. From home. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m already working on converting the whole building so that the top floor is going to be apartments for Jace and his allies ¨C yourself included ¨C and then the rest to be customizable for all manner of activities.¡± She raised an eyebrow, ¡°Swimming included.¡± ¡°I¡­I won¡¯t be able to leave, will I?¡± Shhiv asked. ¡°It¡¯s that, or risk being kidnapped by Conclave members. It is your choice.¡± I can use this, Shhiv thought. I don¡¯t like the idea of being confined to a single building, but if I¡¯m being tracked down to blackmail Jace - a twinge of panic raced through her at the idea that they might capture her, take her to her home world, and torture her to force Jace to work for them. I can¡¯t let them use me to get to him. Plus¡­this is my chance to move in. Sure, it¡¯s faster than I was anticipating, but what better way to make sure that he becomes my lover and partner than by living down the hall from him? I wanted an Ascendant lover to protect me ¨C this is my chance. She nodded, ¡°What do I need to do to get ready?¡± Sera grinned, ¡°Good girl, smart choice. You just pack up your bags.¡± She waved her hand and a gap in space appeared. Shhiv gasped as she saw Jace¡¯s game-room with the falling snow. ¡°Let¡¯s go and get you moved into the building. One of the empty apartments. And we¡¯ll decorate it.¡± There was an odd hint of excitement at the last statement. Shhiv looked around the small bathroom and nodded. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Chapter 53 – Priam Westerfold, Pulsar Priest
Jace crept into another lava tunnel with the slight stream of the superheated rock and metal flowing past him. His Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2) and Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending] were both active, and he scanned the environment as he crept forward. ¡°No sign of movement,¡± he muttered. Ollie ¨C who had curled around his neck and was tangible thanks to Jace¡¯s increased ¡®attunement¡¯ to The Cosmic System ¨C purred an assent. ¡°It is just a Complex. You are not going to encounter other Aspirants in this volcanic region. The mountains surrounding it? Maybe.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 3.] [Number of foes to clear out: 18.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Defeat the Scythe Fiends.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace instinctively raised the shield as a blade swung out from the edge of the tunnel and slammed into him. The curved blade almost cut into his torso, its shape allowing it to get behind the shield. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3), Jace thought. The shield on his arm vanished and surrounded his body. Twisting to riposte, he slashed through the arm of the creature and got a good look at it for a split-second. Thanks to his new eyes, he could take in all of the detail with that brief observation. The scythe that had swung out at him was made of a single, extremely-sharp bone. The monstrous humanoid holding it had deep, crimson skin, was slim, and lithe. A speed-based combatant just like Jace. It had no armor, and despite being covered in corded muscle, its blow was surprisingly weak. The face is what struck Jace the most. The creatures Jace now saw as they poured from the walls of the large, circular chamber looked just like the depictions of devils that he had seen in the reading material on the back of the benches in a funeral-hall for his mentor. Long, pointed ears that jutted out to either side of the head. Enormous front teeth that curved down over the lower lip. A tuft of fur or hair atop the head. And the eyes ¨C almost serpentine. A forked tongue snaked its way out as the monster hissed. Jace rapidly spun ¨C letting his body¡¯s muscle memory take over thanks to the Swordmage Stance Skill. He deflected every single blow ¨C not one touched him. Their weapons were weak enough for his Legendary rarity weapon that he was able to break their scythes ¨C drawing looks of shock from the monsters. Each one that his blade made contact with resulted in the dark purple and crimson nebula clouds spreading along their flesh. Jace felt the surge of adrenaline through him as he reveled in how easy this encounter was. Despite being a Tier lower, these creatures were no real match for him. He was barely breaking a sweat despite the sweltering heat and his exertion. His prosthetics really were almost effortless to move ¨C and could even twist in their sockets in unexpected ways, letting him strike from dizzying angles that only the most skilled fighter could counter. After only thirty seconds of fighting, all of the creatures lay slain. Jace wasn¡¯t breathing heavily, but fighting for any length of time was draining. The golden pillar rose from the small lava puddle in the center of the room, and he snatched it. 41. ¡°Dust them.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 900] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Defeat the Scythe Fiends.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace made his way out of the tunnel and looked down the volcanic mountain. His eyes picked up movement, and zooming in, he saw the bob of a hat that just dipped behind a rocky outcropping. ¡°Ollie, check how many more Complexes are in this tile.¡± The spectral map appeared in front of them both. Ollie moved his paws up, ¡°Hmm. Only five remaining. And we have done three of them.¡± Jace frowned, ¡°Other Aspirants beat us to those two?¡± ¡°Yup. Looks like it.¡± Damnit. I wanted to get all these high rarity Boons. ¡°They must have come from the mountain tile to the North, or one of the plateaus in the Northeast or Northwest. The mountain tile we passed over is barely cleared, and the tiles to our South and West are fully in-tact.¡± Jace spotted the hat moving from outcropping to open space. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 1). The purple glow enveloped him, and he vanished from sight along with Ollie. ¡°Can you tell their faction?¡± Ollie shook his head, ¡°Nope. Not a good enough look.¡± ¡°Should we get closer?¡± Ollie shook his head, ¡°There is only one Complex in the direction they are headed. We can clear out the other four that are to the South, and head towards that plateau tile that leads to the desert where this other phylactery half is located.¡± ¡°Alright,¡± Jace muttered as he grappled in the opposite direction and traversed the landscape.
¡°You¡¯re just seeing things,¡± Priam muttered to himself. He kept a hand on his floppy hat as the wind howled around them, carrying the searing heat of the nearby lava flows up across him. If not for his Pulsar Cosmic Power augmenting his shields with the capacity to reflect heat, he would be cooked alive like some horrible chef''s diabolical creation. In fact, his Skill was the only thing keeping his whole group from being parboiled. ¡°What was that?¡± Rory asked. She turned to face Priam, and her cascading, green locks of vines slightly curled at the sudden movement that forced them out of Priam¡¯s protective Skill; retreating from the heat. ¡°You saw something?¡± ¡°Could have sworn I saw a flash of purple higher up on the volcano,¡± Priam replied. Rory looked at him quizzically, the vines and flowers comprising her face shifting to an approximation of confusion. ¡°That¡¯s¡­purple fire is not common, but its not unheard of. This is a magic world.¡± ¡°I saw it too,¡± Giordo interrupted. The man whose body was made up of mostly rock and stone had a gravelly voice that matched his hardy exterior; sounding like two rocks being cracked together deep in a tunnel. ¡°Purple flame or lava just looks like that when some sulfur is present. It¡¯s really a blue color.¡±If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. ¡°Blue lava?¡± Priam replied as he scratched the edge of his dripping forehead under the hat. ¡°That¡¯s got to be made up.¡± Giordo chuckled, ¡°It¡¯s true. I know my rocks. Come on, my Wayfinder has figured out where the Complex is.¡± A rough spherical boulder floated just above Giordo¡¯s head and seemingly vibrated in the air ¨C a way that Giordo¡¯s species communicated with their own. ¡°What?¡± The rock vibrated further, and Giordo immediately crouched. ¡°Get down!¡± His allies did so, and Rory cocked her head sideways, dropping her voice to a whisper. ¡°What is it?¡± Giordo peeked up towards where Priam saw the movement, ¡°That hint of movement we saw ¨C my Wayfinder has seen that color before ¨C there¡¯s a Dark Matter user up here.¡± A what user? Dark Matter? I didn¡¯t see that on the list of options. He looked over at Bloopa ¨C his Wayfinder who was a mass of geometric shapes. ¡°What is that?¡± He asked it. It fizzled in response, and he could make out the response ¨C but only he could due to his species¡¯ unique relationship with patterns and figures. Giordo¡¯s Wayfinder may be more familiar ¨C I am not. Priam looked over at Giordo, ¡°Ask your Wayfinder more about it.¡± The rock-man looked up at his floating boulder, and it quivered before vibrating further. Giordo nodded and his voice became resolute. ¡°Dark Matter is a secret Cosmic Power only available to Signers for a secretive faction called the Dark Between Stars.¡± Rory muttered, ¡°That explains why so many of the Complexes have been cleared already on this terrain tile.¡± Priam frowned, ¡°Okay, that¡¯s good to know¡­but why should we care? They aren¡¯t hunting Aspirants, are they?¡± ¡°Let me use a Boon,¡± Rory replied as she looked at the small, flower-like growth of a Wayfinder perched on her shoulder. Rory frowned, ¡°What do you mean Uncommon isn¡¯t high enough of a Boon rarity to find it out?¡± Priam gulped. Not even Uncommon? We haven¡¯t come across any Aspirants that can¡¯t be identified with Common or Uncommon. ¡°Should I use my Epic one?¡± Giordo nodded, ¡°We need to know who we are dealing with.¡± ¡°Do it,¡± Priam whispered to Bloopa, as he dreaded whatever answer he was about to receive. <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Information).] [Query: Information about this unknown Dark Matter Aspirant.] [Answer: Known only as Flicker, they are from [HIGHER RARITY REQUIRED]. They have the Cosmic Power known as [HIGHER RARITY REQUIRED]. Their Class is [HIGHER RARITY REQUIRED]. Their species is [HIGHER RARITY REQUIRED]. Current residence in [HIGHER RARITY REQUIRED]. <<<<<>>>>> Priam shared the information aloud as he read it, and he could see Rory¡¯s grip on her staff tighten, and Giordo¡¯s gem-like teeth grit in resolve. Priam concluded with, ¡°Who is this person? He¡¯s mysterious enough that the second-highest Rarity can¡¯t figure it ou-¡± A message appeared across his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Capture Flicker.] [Time Limit: 10 days.] [Reward: Legendary (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: Black Hole Conclave] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Damn,¡± Priam whispered. ¡°I just got a Quest-¡± ¡°Me too.¡± ¡°And me.¡± Giordo chuckled, ¡°Well, I think a Legendary reward is worth the hassle of trying to track this person down.¡± He looked at his two allies, ¡°Even if we win this Dungeon Run event, we only get the one Legendary Boon. If we catch this person? We each get one.¡± Rory nodded in agreement, and the two began heading up the mountain towards where Priam had seen the movement. But Priam stayed back. I mean¡­it¡¯s not like we¡¯re working for the Conclave. Just doing a mission while we¡¯re here. He followed his allies but felt a tingle of fear down his spine. This Dark Matter person has been up here clearing Complexes. They¡¯re going to be tough to take down. He was also quite confused by the objective. Why capture him?
Jace finished yet another Complex and chuckled at how easy these Scythe Fiends were to defeat. ¡°Dust them.¡± Ollie flew forward and did as instructed. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 900] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Defeat the Scythe Fiends.] [Time Limit: N/A.] [Reward: Epic (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°And that makes 42 dungeon cores,¡± Jace stated as he walked up to the pedestal, grabbed the object, and chucked it into the backpack. Ollie flew back and curled around his neck ¨C the new ¡®hangout¡¯ spot as the otter referred to it. ¡°Yup! Making good progress.¡± ¡°How come Complexes are always combat oriented?¡± Jace asked as he left the lava tube, sword and shield still out and active. But he had dropped the Dark Matter Cloak after clearing line-of-sight with that person with the hat. ¡°Remember, it is a ¡®glitch¡¯ when the System tries to merge a new world, but some creature gets caught up and becomes a corrupted Aspirant. Basically, The Cosmic System integration did not work properly, and the creature got the benefits of raw, Cosmic Power instead of getting a specific type of the energy.¡± ¡°So you could have someone just as a Cosmic Power generalist?¡± ¡°No, that is why it is a glitch.¡± Jace exited the tunnel and looked at the small map that Ollie had began to put just under his chin ¨C a quick glance down confirmed that 4 more Complexes were on the volcano tile. ¡°That hat-person didn¡¯t clear the one up away from us,¡± Jace commented. ¡°Doesn¡¯t look like it,¡± Ollie replied. His eyes went black, and he grimaced, ¡°Uh-oh.¡± ¡°What?¡± Jace asked as he scanned around for any sign of danger. ¡°Someone nearby did an Information Boon ¨C Epic rarity.¡± ¡°Xera was able to block it, right?¡± ¡°Even she has limitations,¡± Ollie replied, his voice filled with uncertainty. ¡°I do not know the specifics. They only got your code-name, but one of their Wayfinders is an old one. It knew Dark Matter¡¯s Cosmic Power symbol on sight alone. That means it¡¯s one of forty.¡± Jace frowned, ¡°So they are hunting me?¡± ¡°Possible. Or, they might have been curious about who else was up here. Perhaps looking up possible threats?¡± I don¡¯t want to hurt people, Jace thought. They keep trying to hurt me. I¡¯m just repaying the favor. ¡°Okay, well, I think we can-¡± he stopped as he caught movement out of the corner of his eye. Reflexively, he raised the Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2) ¨C and the cascading blast of wind shattered against the barrier. Chapter 54 – Ruthlessness is its own form of mercy
What the hell? Jace felt the air blast around him, and it was so mighty, so forceful, that it would have pushed him off of his feet if not for the claws on them. The winds curled in and formed a sphere around him. It was not harming him ¨C but the air around him vanished and was even sucked from his lungs. Ollie floated up and out of his spot around Jace¡¯s neck. ¡°Three of them! Hold on-¡± Ollie was silenced as a floating, buzzing, vibrating starry-rock slammed into him. ¡°Oh, why you!¡± the two began a heated fight ¨C otter wrestling with rock as they kept each other from interfacing with The Cosmic System. Jace slashed at the wind barrier ¨C and it carved through but sealed immediately after. Damnit! Ok. Stay calm. I can get out of thi- He barely had any time to think as an enormous, rock-man charged toward him. The person hulked a good two feet over Jace¡¯s own height, and he was wielding a large shield along with a short, stabbing sword blazing with the same whitish-grey wind as the sphere surrounding Jace. The sphere expanded, the rock-man entered the area, and Jace instinctively raised his blade to parry the blow. The man grinned and unleashed a series of slashes at Jace which the Dark Matter Aspirant easily deflected. Really? This one guy thinks he can take me on? He¡¯s pathet - He felt something grab his foot, and sparing a rapid glance down, he spotted vines and plants spiraling up to hold him in place. Damnit, he¡¯s got backup. The rock-man kept the assault up, and without his footwork Jace was unable to strike effectively. He could feel his head getting lighter. I have to get out of here. Starfire Stride! The flames engulfed his legs despite the lack of heat and the air immediately grew hotter, burning away the plants. With his legs freed, Jace was able to unleash a dizzying flurry of attacks that the rock-man had to fully concentrate on defending against. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 1) [Rending]. Jace focused the effect on his foot-claws and planted one leg on the ground, spinning on the omni-directional joint to deliver a punishing kick from an unexpected angle. There was a brief flash of yellowish light, and then it shattered as the claws tore into the man¡¯s armor and sent him tumbling out of the sphere of air. More importantly, it activated the [Rending] bleed on the man ¨C starting in his midsection. It was not accompanied by the purple nebula and micro-singularities, since Jace had used the lowest Rank possible to conserve energy. Now ¨C Dark Matter Mending (Rank 4) [Vampiric]. He could feel his mind clearing. As he was constantly being healed by the near-regenerative effect of the mending fed by the bleed damage from [Rending]. If I don¡¯t get out, I¡¯ll suffocate, but this buys me some time. A cascading torrent of vines filled with rocky rubble blasted out towards him, and Jace dodged to the left ¨C having to squeeze right up against the barrier to avoid it. He was pushed into the wind-prison by the shockwave and would have screamed in agony if he could. His left shoulder was being sheared, and despite being a magic prosthetic ¨C the CIF was showing its negative side effect. Jace felt the pain even though there was little damage being done to the limb itself. It felt like someone was ripping his flesh apart with tiny hooks, just like the time he got caught up some fishing line underwater when he was river-diving the polluted waterways as a teen. The suffocation was just like the near-drowning when that happened, and immediately his mantra echoed through his head as it had done so many times before. Survive for her. The rockslide filled with plants shifted course and moved toward him. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). Detonate. The invisible pulse went off, and Jace saw to his satisfaction that the debris floated upward as well. That satisfaction turned to fear as the plants and rocks reoriented themselves ¨C rushing towards him and pummeling him into the barrier. He could feel himself pushed deeper into the air-sphere, the ripping pain coursing over his body¡­and pushed out the other side. He popped out and was sent flying by the rotational force of the wind, floating off into the sky. Ollie was ripped away by the 10-foot tether, and he was focusing intently on those below. ¡°Accessing with priority override from Xera. Planet War Mage, Pulsar Priest, and Nebula Bulwark. A group of non-Signed Aspirants.¡± Jace sucked in air. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3). He vanished completely and fired off his Ghostlight Grapnel Arm to pull himself back down to the surface. ¡°What do we do? Run or fight?¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°Hmm¡­They have a Quest to take you alive. Sent by the Conclave.¡± Jace quickly replayed the brief swordfight. All his blows were aimed at non-vital areas. ¡°Right. So, what¡¯s the plan?¡± ¡°You nicked the Bulwark, correct?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± ¡°Then he will eventually expire. Circle around and deal with the War Mage. She is their only other source of damage. The Priest has no offensive capabilities from what I can tell.¡± ¡°How can you do all that information so quickly?¡± ¡°Xera has backdoors that she lets me access. I can only do it sporadically or else another Wayfinder might pick up on it.¡± Jace crept back towards the site of the combat. The air sphere had vanished, and he could make out the three figures. The plant-lady was scanning the area in a jarring fashion, as if she was unsure of where to look. ¡°Where did he go?!¡± ¡°Damnit! Heal me!¡± the rock-man growled out. ¡°I¡¯m trying! It won¡¯t mend!¡± a blue-furred, very damp rabbit-man with the floppy hat replied. Jace walked up and used the very tip of his sword to nick the plant-lady on the abdomen ¨C watching as the yellow-gold barrier surrounding her was also shattered. ¡°Ouch! He¡¯s here somewhere!¡± Jace retreated a few feet as the ground exploded around the trio, accompanied by the grunt of frustration from the plant-lady. ¡°Your mid-section! It¡¯s some type of¡­persistent damage effect. I don¡¯t get it? These barriers haven¡¯t been broken before!¡± Jace crept up behind the floppy-hat mage, winding his way between the spires of rock, and nicked him on the center of his back ¨C shattering another barrier. ¡°Gah! He got me too!¡± The rock-man on the ground growled, ¡°Alright! We give up! Don¡¯t kill us!¡± Jace backed away a good fifty feet, ¡°Ollie¡­thoughts?¡± ¡°It is up to you. You could kill them if you choose. They did attack you unprovoked.¡± If they were trying to kill me, then the guy with the sword wouldn¡¯t have tried to strike non-vital points. And I¡¯m sure that plant-lady could have used some type of poisonous plant when she grabbed my legs ¨C for all I know, she did but it just didn¡¯t affect me because of that super soldier serum from Velenar Prime. ¡°Please! I don¡¯t want to die!¡± Jace heard the floppy-hat mage yell out. He sounded panicked; extremely so, and it threw Jace back through one of his memories.
He was on a simple smash-and-grab job with a few other street folk to try and get some medical supplies from a small corpo-run clinic. Jace looked sideways to his best friend; Verve. A young man with a dashing smile from a gene-tailoring program he escaped. The two had been brought up by the streets, and now at the young age of thirteen and fifteen, respectively, they were given a chance to group up with other street folk for a real chance at making a difference. The two were given the same tutelage by the same mentor, and both were quite skilled at sneaking about, acting like part of the background, blending into places, and underhanded tactics. ¡°It¡¯s clear,¡± Verve whispered. He was at the front as they crept outside the back entrance of the closed pharmacy. ¡°Good,¡± a larger street folk dressed in a large cloak muttered. ¡°Jace, pick it.¡± Jace got up front and began working on the lock with a small set of picks that his mentor had given him, ¡°There¡¯s a security system also. Verve?¡± ¡°On it,¡± his friend replied, standing up and wedging a slip of plastic to block a sensor higher up on the door frame. It was reflective, so the beam wouldn¡¯t break. Chewing some gum rapidly, he stuck it in place. The guy with the trenchcoat chuckled, ¡°Damn, gramps was right about you two. Too bad his fingers don¡¯t work well no more.¡± ¡°Got it!¡± Jace whispered with excitement as his heart raced. The door was unlocked, and he slipped a small spike of metal into the locking mechanism to keep it from auto-locking. The bigger man pulled him back ¨C gently, but with force enough that Jace was almost put off balance ¨C and opened the door. ¡°Jackpot! Come on, get those duffels filled up.¡± Jace nodded to Verve, and his friend went inside with the man. Jace went into the alley and blended into the environment, curling up in a ball as he kept an eye on the only entrance to the alleyway. To an outside observer, he would appear as a bag of garbage. An alarm went off. Damnit, they had internal sensors. I mean, we figured as much. But still ¨C that cuts down our time. Jace heard a whirring and, to his shock and horror, a hovercar flew overhead and landed on the street. They must have been close by already on another call. Corpo-sponsored police. He stayed perfectly still, knowing that just being in this close proximity, he would be guilty by association. Stay still. Damnit! I didn¡¯t even have enough time to warn the-Stolen story; please report. Verve ran out of the building, ¡°Let¡¯s go Ja-¡± he froze as a loud crack echoed out. Blood began to spread from his midsection, and Jace had to bite his tongue to keep from crying out. The larger man with the trench coat rounded the corner ¨C duffel bag full of meds ¨C and was also shot. He went down and was groaning in pain. Verve was coughing and looked at Jace. The two made eye contact, and Jace felt tears running down his eyes as he saw his friend bleeding out. I¡­I can¡¯t¡­I can¡¯t help. ¡°Please! I don¡¯t want to die!¡± Verve begged, whimpering, as one of the corpo-police walked over. ¡°Street folk? More like paint for the pavement.¡± The corpo pulled the trigger on his weapon ¨C and Verve¡¯s head vanished in a fountain of crimson. The first time in his life Jace had seen someone die. The trench coat street folk met the same grisly fate, and the corpos didn¡¯t even bother with the bodies. They just went past Jace ¨C not seeing him amidst the trash and refuse ¨C and he heard the sound of them inside the building before they locked it up and left. I let them die. I didn¡¯t warn them¡­ Jace wept for his friend who lay only a few feet away. I¡¯m sorry, Verve¡­
Damnit, Jace thought as he shook his head after reliving the memory in an instant. Uncloaking, he shouted back to the trio. ¡°If you swear that you will not try to harm me, capture me, whatever it is you¡¯re trying ¨C I¡¯ll stop the effect.¡± ¡°Fine!¡± ¡°Yes please!¡± ¡°What are you waiting for?¡± Jace looked over at Ollie who was floating still and had his paw on his chin. ¡°Hmm¡­interesting choice here,¡± the otter companion muttered. ¡°Spare them or let them bleed out.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll give them a chance,¡± Jace stated. But only because of that floppy-hat guy reminds me of Verve. Jace focused on dismissing the [Rending] effect, and he felt the healing effect that was restoring him fade away. ¡°Thank you!¡± he heard the floppy-hat mage say. It was quickly echoed by the other two voices, and the earthen pillars receded into the ground. Ollie quickly flew into Jace¡¯s jacket and curled around his neck, and Jace pulled his hood and mask up to keep the Wayfinder hidden. ¡°I am Flicker. Who are you?¡± The floppy-hat mage looked over at Jace and waved politely, ¡°I¡¯m Priam. Pulsar Priest. This is Rory, Planet War Mage, and Giordo, Nebula Bulwark.¡± Giordo stood up and brushed himself off. He looked mightily pissed off. ¡°I¡­thank you for sparing us,¡± he grumbled. ¡°Tell me why,¡± Jace stated. ¡°I want to know why you were attacking me.¡± ¡°A quest from the Black Hole Conclave,¡± the plant-woman Rory replied. ¡°Legendary rewards to capture you.¡± Capture me? Why would they want to do that? ¡°Any idea why?¡± he whispered to Ollie. ¡°I have an idea ¨C but I do not want to say it out here,¡± Ollie whispered back. He had curled up behind Jace¡¯s head so that his head was right atop Jace¡¯s. ¡°That rock Wayfinder. That is Jeremy. The Wayfinder that bullied me when I was first made.¡± Jace frowned, ¡°Can I interact with other Wayfinders?¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°Maybe? I don¡¯t know, honestly.¡± ¡°You said that you and other Wayfinders couldn¡¯t hurt me. Could I hurt them?¡± Ollie grinned, ¡°Oooh. Maybe. You cannot kill them, but you could send them back to the Starlit Sea and they would have to recover before manifesting again.¡± Noted. Jace spoke aloud again, ¡°Abandon the Quest.¡± The trio of Aspirants murmured amongst themselves, and Jace prepared to use his Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3) just in case. But it wasn¡¯t needed. The Pulsar Priest began to slowly ¨C very slowly ¨C approach with his hands raised. ¡°I give you my word we won¡¯t harm you. I don¡¯t know how to dismiss a Quest.¡± A small, floating, cascade-of-shapes looking Wayfinder floated just behind Priam, and rotated, shifting shapes and colors rapidly. The Pulsar Priest grinned, ¡°It¡¯s that easy? Okay.¡± He looked at Jace, ¡°Quest dropped.¡± ¡°Did he drop it?¡± Jace whispered. ¡°Yup,¡± Ollie replied. Jace saw the other two Aspirants standing further back ¨C and the woman had tightly gripped her staff. Her eyes narrowed, and Jace could make out her mouth moving. The rock-man had begun to switch grips on his weapon as well. They¡¯re getting ready to attack. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3). Jace vanished utterly. Priam looked confused and glanced back at his allies ¨C but Jace had already sprinted past the mage, got behind his two allies, and struck them with his blade once more, applying the [Rending] effect. He quickly hopped away as the two began wildly flailing about with Skills, cursing and shouting. ¡°Priam! Help us!¡± ¡°Bu-but I gave my word!¡± Priam replied. ¡°Who do you care about more? Some random Aspirant or the person who kept you alive during the Trial?!¡± Rory shouted. Jace put his hand on the Priest¡¯s shoulder and yanked him to the ground. He dismissed the Cloak as the two were behind a rocky outcropping. ¡°They were preparing to attack. You kept your word. You get to live.¡± Priam gulped and nodded, ¡°I owe Rory my life though,¡± he whispered in fear. ¡°She kept me alive during the Aspirant Trial and told me that if I became a support-focused Class, she would keep me safe.¡± Jace grimaced, ¡°I gave them a chance.¡± They¡¯re going to suffer the consequences of their actions. ¡°If they die then¡­I¡¯m going to be vulnerable!¡± Priam replied. ¡°I can heal and protect, and that¡¯s about it!¡± The rabbit-man was breathing very, very rapidly and was panicking. Gah. That¡¯s stupid! Why choose a Class with no offensive capabilities? It was about then that Jace noticed the tears streaming down Priam¡¯s face. He¡¯s terrified. Jace felt his protective nature begin to kick in, but he pushed it back. No. He¡¯s not family, he¡¯s not my friend, he¡¯s not street folk. I don¡¯t owe him anything. Hell, if anything, he owes me something. Jace sighed, ¡°Tell you what. You go and get their weapons, their gear ¨C everything stripped from them ¨C and bring it back here. Then, they leave this world. You do that, and they do their part? I¡¯ll let them live. Deal?¡± I may not be able to use their gear if it vanishes, Jace thought, but if they don''t have armor or weapons, and no dungeon cores, they shouldn''t be hurt except by the most vindictive of Aspirants. Priam nodded, ¡°Deal,¡± he replied softly. ¡°Thanks for being merciful.¡± He scampered over the rocky outcropping and shouted the good news to his former allies. Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Jace thought as he went to the trio and stood next to them. He listened intently to their conversation. He felt the energy loss begin to hit him as he felt tired, but the adrenaline coursing through him was more than compensating. That, and the Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 5) reducing the deficit he felt as sleep tugged on him. ¡°He wants us to do what?!¡± Giordo shouted. ¡°Just give him everything you have! If you don¡¯t then he won¡¯t remove the effect. You¡¯ll die!¡± Priam replied, his tone a pleading one. ¡°You ungrateful, weak, useless excuse for an Aspirant!¡± Rory shouted. ¡°You should have killed him while you had the chance!¡± She looked to Giordo, ¡°If we kill the Aspirant, his Skill goes away.¡± ¡°But I gave my word,¡± Priam replied as his voice dropped to a whimper. ¡°I promised¡­and my dad said you never, ever break a prom-¡± The rabbit-man was punched and went sprawling back as Giordo slammed into him. Jace slashed at the man¡¯s Wayfinder, and Ollie cheered, ¡°Take that Jeremy!¡± The rock-ball Wayfinder was carved in two and vanished with a duller pop . Jace quickly stabbed this Giordo through the back of the neck, and he collapsed. The plant lady began to turn and raise her staff ¨C and Jace stabbed her through as well. He turned off Dark Matter Cloak as the plant-lady¡¯s Wayfinder vanished with the telltale pop. ¡°You okay?¡± Jace asked as he walked over to Priam. The bunny-man was knocked out cold. ¡°He is very weak,¡± Ollie commented. ¡°Why choose a Class that has no offensive capability?¡± Jace asked. ¡°His species is called Oslia. Based on my System query, this one is about the equivalent of a fourteen-year-old human.¡± Jace felt that protective nature swell up in him once more. He¡¯s just a fucking kid . Why the hell would he choose Aspirant? But Jace stopped himself in that line of thought. He must have been desperate. Just like I was. But why didn¡¯t he get sent to The Eternal City¡¯s youth-thing? ¡°Ollie, how is he so young but an Aspirant?¡± ¡°Ah, that is because his age is considered adult for his species. But they live a short lifespan of fifty years. I would gather that he was found mid-Trial by this Rory woman, and the two teamed up to survive. She probably protected him in some way, and so he returned the favor by becoming a Class dedicated to helping his allies.¡± ¡°Dust them,¡± Jace said as he gestured to the two corpses. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 30] <<<<<>>>>> As their bodies vanished along with their gear, the golden dungeon core rolled out and Jace quickly grabbed it with his foot. Pulling it up, he weighed it in his hand. ¡°Maybe¡­6?¡± Ollie shook his head, ¡°It¡¯s an 8 size,¡± he replied. ¡°So that puts me at 50 total,¡± Jace said as he opened his pack and put it with the other one. The two orbs merged, and a singular, golden orb took up a good amount of his backpack¡¯s space. ¡°That is correct,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°What about this one?¡± Jace looked down at the rabbit-man. ¡°A dedicated support Class? And he¡¯s got no offensive options? If I leave him here, he¡¯s a goner.¡± Jace could smell the slight scent of burnt fur and scooped up the light man. ¡°The least I can do is keep him alive until he wakes up. He did try to fill his part of the deal.¡± But I don¡¯t owe him anything¡­but maybe this can be redemption in a way. He sighed. This is for you, Verve. Chapter 55 – Barrier builder bunny boy
Priam¡¯s head pulsed with pain, and his jaw was sore. He smelled the scent of slightly charred fur, and his sharp hearing picked up the sound of movement. Sitting upright, he looked around and saw the sides of a tent, gently billowing. He was not burning up, but he felt extremely warm. Pulsar Ward (Rank 1), he thought. The familiar and comforting thrum of the barrier instantly put him at ease, and the temperature regulated. With a pop his Wayfinder appeared. The geometric shapes danced around and shifted in color ¨C which translated to words in Priam¡¯s mind, as his species used a written, symbol-based language. You are alive! Thank the System. Bloopa¡¯s shapes turned and twisted between a triangle-mixed with a sphere, and an octagon. ¡°Yeah¡­where am I?¡± Scanning¡­Ah, a lava tube. And you are inside a tent. ¡°You¡¯re awake,¡± the voice of the Aspirant said from right next to him. Priam jumped and turned to see the Dark Matter Aspirant suddenly appear next to him. The purple highlights and glow to his eyes faded as his Skill deactivated. He was muscular, not overtly so but definitely strong if the overall build was anything to go by. The hood was pulled back, and the eyes were¡­cunning in nature; mesmerizing, in a way. Black, draconic slits like the horrible predators on his home world he¡¯d heard stories about. That black was pierced by a central line of glimmering starlight ¨C the light-blue of Stardust ¨C and surrounding it was purple nebula clouds. A spectral furred snake with whiskers was curled around his neck¡­and he was¡­petting it? How is he touching a Wayfinder? ¡°What is your Wayfinder saying?¡± he asked. ¡°Uhmm¡­This is Bloopa,¡± Priam said as he gestured to his companion. ¡°I¡¯m Priam- but I already told you that, didn¡¯t I?¡± He chuckled nervously. ¡°Please don¡¯t kill me.¡± Flicker raised an eyebrow quizzically, ¡°Why would I keep you alive if I wanted you dead? I could have killed you while you were knocked out.¡± ¡°That¡­That¡¯s right,¡± Priam felt his heart sink. Rory and Giordo had just¡­tossed him aside like useless trash. ¡°I¡¯m not useless,¡± he whispered. He looked up at Flicker, ¡°How¡¯d you break my barriers?¡± The furred-snake spoke up with a gruff voice that was quite deep, ¡°First you answer our questions.¡± Priam felt the fear and sorrow slowly beginning to be replaced by curiosity. ¡°Sorry, but what is your name?¡± he asked the whisker-snake. ¡°Oliver. That¡¯s all you get from me. A courtesy. Hi, Bloopa. Long time no see.¡± The prismatic shapes shimmered and shifted, and similar shapes danced in the otter¡¯s eyes as they conversed silently. ¡°Good to meet you¡­how can he touch you?¡± Priam asked. Flicker cleared his throat, ¡°He¡¯s busy. So¡­what do I do with you? You¡¯re a full support Class with no offensive capabilities.¡± ¡°I¡­I don¡¯t know,¡± Priam replied. He felt a slight tug on his temples from his hat. Oh, good idea. That will get him to trust me! ¡°I can show you my readout, if you want!¡± Pour on the enthusiasm, Priam. I¡¯m easy pickings if I don¡¯t have a combat-focused Aspirant to protect me. ¡°Go ahead,¡± Flicker replied. His face was hard to read. ¡°Okay! Bloopa? Could you?¡± <<<<<>>>>> Name: Priam Westerfold (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Pulsar [Priest 38] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Pulsar Ward (Rank 20) [Multi-Target], Pulsar Physic (Rank 10) [Contingent], Priest''s Benediction (Rank 10) [Enduring] Stardust: 450 Equipment: Priest''s starting gear, Priest tome, (Insightful) Dad''s Hat Boons: Common (Information), Rare (Equipment Augmentation), Epic (Information) <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Pulsar Ward scales endlessly, so I can make super strong barriers for people! But¡­you shattered it almost instantly¡­how¡¯d you do that?¡± Flicker¡¯s eyes narrowed, and the lizard-like, slitted eyes made Priam feel like he was under the eye of one of his teachers back in Khrox. ¡°Explain your other Skills.¡± ¡°I can use [Multi-Target] to put my barriers on multiple people. Pulsar Physic lets me cure an injury and affliction on up to 6 creatures within 480 feet, and the [Contingent] Evolution lets me set a trigger condition ¨C like when you¡¯re hurt! Or, even on the edge of death!¡± Keep laying it on. I need to make this guy see my value, so he doesn¡¯t just leave me here without protection. Flicker nodded, ¡°One more to explain. Go on.¡± ¡°Right! So, my Priest¡¯s Benediction increases traits ¨C physical, sensory, or cognitive ¨C if they¡¯re within 30 feet. And [Enduring] means that it will last until I use the Skill on a new target.¡± That earned an intrigued look from the Aspirant, ¡°Interesting. Humor me ¨C use that Benediction Skill on me.¡± Okay. Priest¡¯s Benediction (Rank 1) . Priam saw the gold, crackling magnetic energy begin to cascade around the Aspirant ¨C but then fizzled as a dark, purple energy dissipated his barrier. ¡°What was that?! The Skill didn¡¯t work! I swear, I tri-¡± Flicker shook his head, ¡°I don¡¯t think any of your Skills can affect me. Ollie?¡± ¡°Yup. Flicker here is highly resistant to Pulsar-based Skills.¡± Priam looked sideways as the tickling noise hit his ears. He saw Bloopa¡¯s movement, and his brain translated the shapes. Oliver has given me a little bit of access ¨C he has a lot of firewalls put in place by X.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. ¡°Who is that?¡± Priam asked the cluster of shapes. We can talk about that later. For now, just know that this guy is strong. Just look at his arms, legs, eyes ¨C all of those are very-high rarity prosthetics. His Equipment is almost all of the Legendary rarity as well. Oliver did not give me much information access¡­but he is a Signer for a secret faction I am not allowed to tell you about. ¡°Why not?¡± Programming. I just cannot tell you about it. If you can ally with him ¨C you should. If he accepts you as an ally¡­I might be able to reveal more. Priam felt the fear redouble itself and he looked to this person that his Skills could not affect at all, but also a ray of hope at Bloopa¡¯s information about the possibility of becoming allies. ¡°I can carry your gear! You have a big pack there; I can lug it around for you!¡± Flicker sighed, ¡°I can carry my own gear.¡± ¡°Then-¡± Flicker interrupted, ¡°I don¡¯t think I can take you with me.¡± He was going to say more, but Oliver put his mouth against his ear and whispered ¨C not quietly enough, as Priam¡¯s elongated ears picked it up. ¡°You should consider taking him along. You can suppress your innate resistance to allow his Skills to affect you.¡± Flicker replied in the same whisper, ¡°I¡­It¡¯s risky. He just tried to help people capture me for the Conclave.¡± ¡°I only went along because I had to!¡± Priam blurted out, drawing the gaze of both Oliver and Flicker. ¡°I¡­¡± he felt a coil of regret in his chest. ¡°I owed them both. They saved my life. I couldn¡¯t get left behind! I need to get stronger, so I can go back and save my world!¡± Flicker¡¯s eyes widened slightly at the admission, ¡°Explain more.¡± Priam took a deep breath and nodded, ¡°My world ¨C Fernaid ¨C is ruled by an Ascendant named Wricen the Indomitable. It got merged a hundred years ago, so I went to Khrox right after I was born. After growing up, I chose Aspirant, and I met Rory and Giordo. They promised that if I chose a support-focused Class, they would get stronger and help me kill Wricen. Well, I met Rory first, but Giordo joined up late-¡± ¡°Why?¡± Flicker asked. Priam frowned and sighed, ¡°I¡­my dad told me I had to.¡± Priam pulled the brim of the hat down ¨C his dad¡¯s hat. ¡°He said that our family, our fluffle, we were all hunted to extinction by Wricen because of our connection to the gods. Except him, my mom who died having me, and me.¡± He looked up at Flicker, who had a dour expression on his face. ¡°I¡­dad wanted me to be an Ascendant so that I could get revenge¡­he was captured and taken back.¡± Priam pulled his knees into his chest and pushed his face into his legs. ¡°I never heard from him again.¡± Priam slightly jumped when a warm hand gripped his shoulder ¨C gentle, but firm. ¡°Sounds rough. Sorry about that. Ollie? What would X say about this?¡± ¡°Let me ask¡­They are aware of Wricen the Indomitable. Removing him would in fact stabilize The Cosmic System, as he is attempting to wring more control out of his local section on Fernaid.¡± Flicker patted Priam on the shoulder, ¡°Hey, look at me.¡± Priam did so, and he saw a calm, kind expression on the Ascendant¡¯s face. ¡°I can¡¯t promise you safety. I can¡¯t promise you anything. But my¡­boss thinks that stopping this Wricen guy will help the whole System.¡± He grinned, ¡°And it¡¯s my job to keep it all in check.¡± ¡°You¡¯ll¡­you¡¯ll let me tag along?¡± Priam asked, feeling hope flutter in his chest. ¡°At least until this Dungeon Run is finished. If you can prove yourself useful¡­I¡¯ll let you tag along.¡± Priam got up and hugged Flicker, ¡°Thank you! Thank you thank you thank y-¡± The Aspirant pushed him away, ¡°Okay, that is a bit too much. Tone it back.¡± ¡°Sorry,¡± Priam muttered. ¡°I need some shuteye, so keep watch for anyone coming, alright?¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Priam replied as he saluted, putting his index and middle fingers of his left hand in a ¡®v¡¯ shape over his right forearm. ¡°You can count on me!¡± Flicker nodded and laid down. Oliver floated over and looked at Priam, ¡°This is a litmus test of trust. You couldn¡¯t kill him if you tried ¨C so don¡¯t. The tent is special ¨C give him an hour.¡± The otter grinned, ¡°And if you are truly dedicated to helping The Cosmic System¡­well, maybe a special someone will be interested in making you a Signer.¡± The Wayfinder vanished with a pop. I did it! Priam felt ecstatic, and looked at Bloopa, ¡°I did it!¡± he whispered. Yes, you did. Now just prove yourself useful so he keeps you around. Ollie gave me a little more access ¨C this Jace / Flicker fellow is level 48. And he has survived¡­a lot. Here, let me show you. Priam saw a video show up in his vision ¨C a blurred face and scrawny human, facing off against a vicious predator that sent chills down his spine. He survived that without Cosmic Power. Priam grinned, ¡°Perfect. I can tag along, help out, get Stardust¡­and get home to stop Wricen.¡± You should know that the faction Oliver mentioned, the faction that Flicker belongs to ¨C Dark Between Stars¡­they try to keep The Cosmic System balanced. I cannot say more than that until I am given permission¡­but you should seriously consider joining this faction. ¡°Oh, I was already thinking about it. Especially if fixing my world falls under those duties.¡±
¡°What the hell is a fluffle?¡± Jace whispered to Ollie as he finished packing up the tent after his equivalent of 8 hours of sleep. ¡°It is the proper term for a group of rabbits,¡± Ollie replied. Jace glanced back to the entrance of the lava tube, ¡°Well, he kept his word ¨C twice.¡± ¡°About that,¡± Ollie interrupted. ¡°His species is hardwired to tell the truth and be altruistic. Ill-will is very, very rare amongst his species. I also checked the validity of his story ¨C this Wricen the Indomitable took over on behalf of the Planetary Independence Pact. And he has been¡­okay? Not a great ruler, but not horrible.¡± ¡°Priam mentioned gods.¡± ¡°Just like this world has World Pillars for their magic that was ¡®overridden¡¯ by The Cosmic System, their world had gods that were also ¡®overridden¡¯. They still exist on that world and have power just like there is magic here ¨C but they would be the equivalent of a Tier 4 Ascendant. In fact, that whole world is rated at Tier 4, because of ¡®divine magic¡¯ given to every person who venerates these gods.¡± Jace smirked as he finished packing up, ¡°The existence of gods is crazy,¡± he replied. ¡°I know!¡± Priam shouted back from the mouth of the lava tube-tunnel. ¡°Most people do not believe me until they look up the information on their cosmopanel or through their Wayfinder.¡± He grinned and walked over to Jace, ¡°Ready to tackle some Complexes?¡± Jace looked over at the rabbit-man; more of a young teenager to Jace¡¯s perspective. He¡¯s just like Verve was. Energetic, excited, and eager. Jace frowned. Once more, he felt an urge to protect this obviously out-of-his-depth young man; a means to make up for his failure to not keep Verve alive. ¡°How are you with the heat? This volcano tile is hot.¡± ¡°Oh, no problem at all! I¡¯ve got my Pulsar Ward.¡± He tapped a barely visible, yellowish-gold barrier. ¡°It protects me from environmental effects. Even at (Rank 1).¡± ¡°And traveling?¡± Jace asked as he finished packing away his gear and quickly slurped down one of the survival rations. ¡°I can run pretty fast.¡± Jace chuckled, drank some water to wash down the goop, put the canteen back into his bag and the wrapper into the stream of lava nearby. ¡°I don¡¯t want to run. We¡¯re going to fall.¡± Priam cocked his head to the side, and the floppy ears sort of ¡®popped¡¯ over the edge of the hat¡¯s rim. ¡°What?¡± Chapter 56 – Dark Matter with Pulsar support
¡°Make sure you hang on tight,¡± Jace told Priam. ¡°You got it, Flicker!¡± The Pulsar Priest clutched tightly to Jace¡¯s back, arms wrapped around his torso and legs wrapped around Jace¡¯s hips. They had extended the straps on Jace¡¯s backpack so that the bunny-boy could be pinned between the bag and Jace as a way to secure him. ¡°Here we go.¡± Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1), Jace thought. The sphere of black appeared on his chest. He glanced at the map that Ollie had up just underneath his face ¨C sort of acting like a heads-up-display from one of the sim-games he had seen other kids in the orphanage sometimes got a hold of. He curled his legs under himself and jumped in the direction of the next Complex. Detonate. The gravity was removed from the two of them, and Jace¡¯s momentum carried them up into the sky at a high speed. Priam let out an exhilarated whoop. ¡°That¡¯s awesome! How do you do that?¡± ¡°A Skill,¡± Jace replied as he shot his Ghostlight Grapnel Arm out to a nearby rocky outcropping, using it to keep himself from flying too high, and to accelerate towards the Complex even faster. The heat of the lava flows underneath Jace was negligible. ¡°Any Stardust is split equally ¨C if we can. And, to keep things fair, we¡¯ll take turns with the rewards from clearing Complexes.¡± ¡°Actually,¡± Ollie interrupted. ¡°You both will get your own Quest from The Cosmic System. No need to alternate rewards.¡± ¡°That makes things handy,¡± Jace replied. ¡°Yup!¡± Priam shouted over the wind right into Jace¡¯s ear, making him wince. ¡°Quieter,¡± Jace muttered back. ¡°I¡¯ve got good hearing. No need to yell.¡± ¡°Sorry!¡± The two began to fall as gravity reasserted itself. Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). Detonate. Gravity vanished once more, and Jace gently set down, gripping the ground with his foot-claws and dismissing the Skill. ¡°We¡¯re here,¡± he muttered as he loosened the straps. Priam slipped out of the backpack holster and stood in front of the lava tube, ¡°Alright. You going to let me affect you with my Skills?¡± Jace glanced down at Ollie, ¡°How does this work?¡± ¡°Just think about letting him affect you.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Okay, Priam. Use your Skills on me.¡± The array of various shapes ¨C Bloopa ¨C moved and shifted forms between squares and triangles into circles and dodecahedrons. Ollie nodded, ¡°Yes, yes. I know. Go ahead, Priam.¡± ¡°Okay!¡± he held up a pocket-sized book and cleared his throat. ¡°Pulsar Ward (Rank 20) [Multi-Target], Pulsar Physic (Rank 10) [Contingent], Priest¡¯s Benediction (Ra-¡± ¡°Don¡¯t use that one,¡± Ollie interrupted. ¡°Jace has a higher equivalent.¡± He lowered his voice to a whisper as Jace was surrounded by a golden, yellow light that looked like a bunch of hexagons in a grid ¨C translucent, but barely visible. To most, at least. Jace¡¯s eyes could see the Skill perfectly, and beyond it. ¡°Cosmic Infusion is like the same thing, but only affects you.¡± Priam sagged and fell to his knee. The same shield was surrounding him, and Jace also saw a small, glowing, yellow hourglass above his head. Glancing up, he saw one above his own head. Must be the contingent healing Skill, he thought. Priam stood up and smiled as he wiped sweat from his brow, ¡°I¡¯ll stay towards the back of the tunnel once we enter the Complex.¡± Jace nodded and unsheathed his blade. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1). As his blade blazed with purple and crimson fury and the purple bubble appeared around his skin, the single black point appeared on the tip of his weapon. Just in case I need to control the fighting area a bit. He walked up to Priam and gave the bunny-boy a curt nod. ¡°Let¡¯s get to it.¡± Jace walked into the lava tube, and glanced backward to make sure the young man was following him. He was ¨C a good ten feet back. Plenty of room to allow Jace to retreat without running into each other. Jace could see his eyes glowing the pale, yellow color tinged, and his hair and fur shot through with golden highlights. <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 3.] [Number of foes to clear out: 1.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay Rhulgod, Flame Abyssal of Ash Peak.] [Time Limit: N/A] [Reward: Epic (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°A single foe? That¡¯s easy,¡± Priam stated. ¡°But we are in the most hazardous tile here on Nihilethelea.¡± ¡°I fought a named enemy on the other side of the tile.¡± Jace entered the circular chamber. This one was even bigger than the first one where he had encountered. Easily two-hundred feet across, with a massive, thirty-foot wide lava pool at the center. A figure began to rise out of the lava, and Jace unconsciously gulped down the small knot that had risen in his throat. This¡­thing was twice the size of the Flame Demon he had fought. It looked very, very similar ¨C but instead of two arms, it had four. And each held a different weapon ¨C spear, sword, mace, and flail ¨C all made of flames and lava. Its color was different as well. Not red, but black. A smoky black of charred wood and burned metal. A sulfuric smell wafted out, and Jace could see the flickering green hatred in those eyes from its captivity at Double-A¡¯s machinations upon this world. ¡°No way,¡± Priam whispered. Jace threw his sword at the creature ¨C and it scored a strike right at the face, beginning to spread the crimson and purple. Jace recalled the blade as the creature roared. ¡°Bring it!¡± he shouted, feeling the adrenaline coursing through his body as he grinned. He began to run around the far side of the room ¨C away from Priam to prevent the less hardy Aspirant from suffering damage. Jace stood still and waited for the incoming blow. He had a plan ¨C a risky one, but a plan nonetheless. I have to test his barriers for myself . That¡¯s why he had Dark Matter Shield at (Rank 3) ¨C just in case the barrier did not hold. The creature swung down with the flail and Jace sidestepped the large, spiked, obsidian orbs that burst out gouts of flame. I meant to get hit by the edge of that, he thought. Must be Swordmage Stance keeping me safe with muscle memory. Jace saw the flames flickering and trying to surge out to attack him ¨C but it was stopped by the hexagon-yellow bulwark. Okay, so it can block splash damage. I don¡¯t want to risk getting hit head on. He jumped to the side as the spear stabbed forward towards him, and jumping onto the weapon, he ran up it. Once he reached the arm, he slashed several lines across it that did not cut deep but began to spread the miasma. Dark Matter Mending (Rank 4) [Vampiric]. He was not injured yet ¨C but these bleed effects that were constantly afflicting this creature meant that he would stay alive unless the damage was truly catastrophic. As he reached the shoulder, he slashed at one of the eyes before leaping away in a graceful flip. The creature¡¯s mace swung at him while he was in midair, and Jace had to use his grapnel on the ceiling to dodge the blow. But what he didn¡¯t realize was that the swing wasn¡¯t aimed at him ¨C just in an arc at him. The real target was Priam. ¡°Look out!¡± Jace shouted, feeling a surge of panic race through him. Priam let out a yelp of panic as the hammer crashed into the barrier. Jace saw it hold firm, and a few cracks appeared on it. ¡°I¡¯m good! I told you; my barriers are the best! You¡¯re doing great and look awesome !¡± Jace couldn¡¯t help but grin at the exultation of his prowess; an external validation of his skills he didn¡¯t know he was craving. Looking back at the creature, he dodged another spear jab and dove under a horizontal sword slash. ¡°I want this creature to be consumed by a torrent of water. Hydromancy ¨C activate.¡± There was an explosion of steam that flung Jace and Priam back ¨C Priam down the tunnel and Jace into the wall with a dull thud as the barrier took the impact. Jace¡¯s eyes could see through the fog, and he saw the creature writhing in agony. The roar of pain it emitted was dizzying given his enhanced hearing ¨C but he had an opening. Raising his hand up, he whispered another Skill. ¡°Dark Energy Beam (Rank 10).¡± The beam of grey-white-purple energy lanced outward before expanding into the 36-inch diameter line ¨C large enough that it disintegrated half of the monster¡¯s head. It collapsed forward before vanishing, and the golden pillar appeared next to Jace. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay Rhulgod, Flame Abyssal of Ash Peak.] [Time Limit: N/A] [Reward: Epic (Equipment Augmentation) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> He felt himself winded and he collapsed on the ground, heaving deep breaths as his eyelids fluttered. Still energy intensive at that high rank. ¡°Priam! You alright!¡± he tried to call out ¨C but it came out as a groan. Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. ¡°I¡¯m good! You alive?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Jace weakly replied as he pushed himself upright. ¡°It¡¯s dead.¡± Ollie patted Jace¡¯s cheek, ¡°Good job! You had an easy time with that thing.¡± ¡°Priam¡¯s barriers were handy,¡± Jace replied. ¡°And it took a full hit from the thing without breaking.¡± Ollie grinned, ¡°Well, I talked to X while you were out. She¡¯s¡­receptive to more Signers.¡± Jace shook his head, ¡°Don¡¯t offer it yet. We need to test him more. Maybe if he sticks along until this Dungeon Run is over and we return to Khrox.¡± Priam emerged from the steam, and Jace couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at the poofy fur surrounding his ears. ¡°What?¡± Priam asked. ¡°Nothing,¡± Jace replied as he stood up. ¡°Ollie, how do we deal with splitting Stardust from a single enemy?¡± ¡°Easy enough. Either me or Bloopa dusts it, then we split the amount.¡± Priam bowed slightly and gestured to the body, ¡°You killed it. I¡¯ve never had Bloopa do a split before.¡± Jace nodded and smiled as he patted the shorter bunny-boy¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Will do.¡± He walked over to the creature, ¡°Ollie?¡± ¡°On it!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 2000] [Stardust Split: 1000] <<<<<>>>>> As the creature¡¯s corpse turned to stardust, Ollie gestured to Bloopa, and the stream split into two. Priam laughed with delight, ¡°That¡¯s a whole level¡¯s worth! And that Equipment Augmentation seems neat!¡± ¡°How much do I have Ollie?¡± ¡°3,380. But you can only spend 2,000 if you want to stay on this world. Any more and you hit level 51 and would be Tier 3, and forced out while The Dungeon Run is in progress. And, for your plan for Double-A, you need to have 1,500 Stardust in reserve.¡± Jace nodded and looked over at Priam who was looking up at his Wayfinder ¨C no doubt leveling up. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s do it. Two levels to hit 50 dumping into that Energy Cost Reduction, and let¡¯s combine those 3 Epic (Equipment Augmentation) I have into a Legendary, and use it on the Anathema Arm.¡± He walked over to the podium and grabbed the dungeon core. 51. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Jace Seren (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Dark Matter [Swordmage 50] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) [Reflecting], Swordmage Stance (Rank 3) [Astral Annihilator], Dark Matter Dart [Exploding] (Rank 4), Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Energy Mine (Rank 3) [Distant], Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10), Dark Energy Beam (Rank 12), Dark Matter Mending (Rank 4) [Vampiric], Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 7), Starfire Stride (1/day), Arbiter''s Anathema (3/day), Shadow Nebula Smokescreen (1/day), Archmage Geomancy (1/day), Archmage Hydromancy (1/day), Archmage Pyromancy (1/day) Stardust: 1380 Equipment: (Returning) Starstorm Sword, (Medium / Snowguard / Burnguard) Devastation Armor, Ghostlight Grapnel Arm, (Thrice Judged) Anathema Arm, (Overclocked) Dragonclaw Devastation Legs, (Terrifying) All-Seeing Dragon''s Eyes, Mind''s Eye Amulet, (Heavy) Venture Pack, survival meals (x28), enhanced canteen, optimized medical kit, flint bar, flashlight, Omnitech prosthetic repair module (x1 charges), (Restful) Wildercloth tent, Devilsram wool bedroll, Guardian''s Loop Boons: Common (Equipment), Uncommon (Equipment) <<<<<>>>>> Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 6) ¨C Any Skill the user uses has its energy cost reduced by 30% Energy Cost Reduction (Rank 7) ¨C Any Skill the user uses has its energy cost reduced by 35% <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Legendary (Equipment Augmentation).] [Target Equipment: Anathema Arm.] [Augmenting.] [Result: (Thrice Judged) Anathema Arm.] [Description: The Thrice Judged (Equipment Augmentation) increases the uses of The Arbiter¡¯s Anathema Skill to 3 times per day.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace grinned and chuckled. Any more Aspirants come attacking me better watch out!
Priest¡¯s Benediction goes up to Rank 13. But you should really consider getting a combat Skill of some type ¨C even a weak one. ¡°Like what?¡± Priam asked, as he glanced sideways. Jace was chatting quietly with his Wayfinder, and Priam couldn¡¯t make out the words thanks to the bubbling lava. ¡°I mean, he seems pretty harm-oriented¡­but you¡¯re right. I should have something, even if its weak.¡± I can¡¯t rely on others wholly anymore. That was a mistake I won¡¯t make again. Priest¡¯s Smite is a reliable ranged option. Striking your foes within magnetic, electric, or ¨C since you have that unique, divine blood ¨C pure divinity. Which technically counts as untyped damage. With that, you could even maybe injure entities such as Flicker. ¡°Yeah! Let¡¯s do that. And I want to use that Epic (Equipment Augmentation) on my tome.¡± Alright. Here we go. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Priam Westerfold (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Pulsar [Priest 39] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Pulsar Ward (Rank 20) [Multi-Target], Pulsar Physic (Rank 10) [Contingent], Priest''s Benediction (Rank 10) [Enduring], Priest''s Smite (Rank 1) Stardust: 450 Equipment: Priest''s starting gear, (Conservation) Priest tome, (Insightful) Dad''s Hat Boons: Common (Information), Rare (Equipment Augmentation), Epic (Information) <<<<<>>>>> Priest¡¯s Smite (Rank 1) - The user designates a target up to 100 ft. away. They are harmed by a Cosmic Power manifestation or divine wrath. <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Equipment Augmentation).] [Target Equipment: Priest tome.] [Augmenting.] [Result: (Conservation) Priest tome.] [Description: The Conservation (Equipment Augmentation) reduces the energy cost of any healing or protecting Skills by 25%. Stacks with other forms of energy cost reduction.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°That¡¯s incredible!¡± Priam shouted. ¡°These are such good Boons. No wonder Rory and Giordo kept asking me to give them mine.¡± ¡°What?¡± Flicker asked as he walked over. ¡°You gave these away ?¡± ¡°I mean¡­yeah? They made a convincing argument that they were in more danger, so they should get as many Boons as possible. It made sense. I was always staying back and out of danger.¡± Flicker sighed but nodded, ¡°No, it makes sense to me, too. Just¡­wasted, now that they¡¯re dust.¡± Priam frowned but nodded, ¡°They¡­yeah.¡± He looked down and felt a pang of sorrow for them ¨C but only briefly, as the memory of that punch from Giordo when he was just trying to help replayed through his thoughts. No. They deserved what they got. We should have never attacked this nice man. ¡°You okay?¡± Flicker asked, his voice filled with a soft tenderness of compassion. ¡°Need a few minutes?¡± ¡°I¡¯m-I¡¯m good,¡± Priam replied as he looked up and met those slitted, piercing eyes that seemed to stare him down like a predator ¨C but a friendly one that he knew would protect him. His hat tugged down around his head. Oh yeah, I know. I can trust this guy. He¡¯s trying to help the whole System. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the next one!¡± Priam began to walk out the lava tube, but his stomach rumbled. ¡°I¡­uh¡­I don¡¯t have any food ¨C or water.¡± Flicker sighed, ¡°Let me guess ¨C the other two were carrying that?¡± ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Flicker reached into the backpack and tossed Priam a pouch. ¡°It¡¯s a full meal. Just slurp it down like nutrisludge.¡± ¡°Nutri-what?¡± ¡°Just rip it open along the dotted line.¡± Priam did so, and the sweet smell of oranges and cinnamon wafted to his nose. ¡°Oh, this smells delicious!¡± Flicker chuckled, ¡°They¡¯re pretty tasty. Eat up, Verve.¡± ¡°Who?¡± The expression that flashed across Flicker¡¯s face was hard to read ¨C but Priam was good at reading emotions. There was recognition, then regret, and then resolve. ¡°Sorry. You remind me of a friend.¡± ¡°Oh, hopefully in a good way!¡± Priam began slurping down the sludge. The texture wasn¡¯t great, but the flavor more than made up for it. ¡°Do you have water?¡± Flicker nodded and handed him a canteen, ¡°Press the left button. The first chamber is almost out.¡± Priam did so and quaffed down a few mouthfuls of the clear, tasteless liquid. ¡°Ahh. Thanks a ton!¡± He handed back the canteen and neatly folded up the empty packet of the nutrisludge before placing it in his little garbage-pocket. It wasn¡¯t a messy pocket, just stuff that needed to be thrown away somewhere ¨C not just dumped. ¡°We going to fly to the next one?¡± ¡°It is not flying,¡± Oliver said from his curled-around-Flicker¡¯s-neck position. The Aspirant reached a hand up to pet the Wayfinder as he continued, ¡°It is a controlled trajectory of a zero gravity movement.¡± Priam cocked his head sideways, ¡°Flight by another name then.¡± Oliver groaned and put his paws on his cute, little face. ? Chapter 57 – Can I get a Signing bonus?
I didn¡¯t mean to let slip that Verve comment, Jace thought as he traveled with the zero-gravity launch towards the next Complex. Priam is just¡­so like him. Na?ve, trusting, willing to help. Jace chided himself. Don¡¯t get attached. I don¡¯t even know if I¡¯m going to keep him around. He heard the exhilarated whoop from behind him as Priam reveled in the near-flight experience. The same feeling Jace had when he first did it for travel and not because he was fleeing from an Ascendant who took his arm. He¡¯s young, comparatively. Like a teenager. That¡¯s so weird. He¡¯s considered an adult on his world? Well, Ollie did say that his species is hard-wired, so they don¡¯t act¡­badly. Jace felt an odd mixture of emotions as he landed and launched himself once more with another Dark Energy Mine. A sense of regret from not saving Verve and just hiding to keep himself alive; not guilt, regret. Regret that he didn¡¯t have the power to save him like he did now. Something stupid to have regret over, but he felt it nonetheless. He also felt a¡­protective desire. Priam was innocent; just like Chroma was. And Chroma was taken away because Jace couldn¡¯t protect her. In that moment, he made up his mind. I¡¯m going to invite him along once we clear the volcano tile. See if he wants to team up. Just saying those words in his head filled him with a sense of resolve. Yeah. This is for you, Verve. I couldn¡¯t protect you; I¡¯ll protect this little guy. Verve was gone for too long for him to bring back as a Tier 10 Ascendant with the¡­however the resurrection thing would work, since it had been more than 10 years. I¡¯ll survive. He¡¯ll help me survive. I¡¯ll get you back, Chroma. I promise.
Shhiv had just finished moving in when Sera walked into the apartment unannounced. ¡°Getting comfortable?¡± Shhiv nodded and smiled, ¡°This place is bigger than mine. It¡¯s awesome. Missy even asked if I could teach her some exercises; she said they moved into the building also!¡± Sera smiled and nodded, ¡°Good to see it is going smoothly. You have another roommate that will join you eventually. Quinn Cipher has been invited and has accepted.¡± Shhiv narrowed her gaze and felt her tail curl inward in aggression, ¡°Why invite her ?¡± ¡°Because she can be used against Jace. Same with Greg and Missy. Same with you.¡± She uncrossed her arms and walked over to Shhiv, tracing a finger along her biceps. ¡°She intends to seduce him, I imagine. Star Father is attempting to get Jace to become a Signer for the Star Council. We find ourselves in a predicament.¡± Shhiv gently, but firmly, pushed the petite hand away. ¡°Why is she moving into the building then?¡± ¡°Because she has transaction history through The Cosmic System ¨C and the Conclave have figured out that she knows Flicker¡­Jace. It is only a matter of time until they make a move on her. Greg is currently contracted to her ¨C so the duo should be somewhat safe. And more importantly, with her here and not in the Star Council¡¯s buildings¡­I can keep an eye on her.¡± Shhiv frowned, ¡°That makes sense. But I¡¯m going to put her in her place. Jace is mine .¡± Sera smirked and giggled before resuming her composure. ¡°Good, that is what I was going to ask you to do.¡± ¡°What?¡± ¡°You heard me. I know you and Jace went for a tumble, and he¡¯s found himself enamored with you.¡± Sera tapped her wrist-pad, and a screen appeared in space next to the two. Shhiv felt mightily embarrassed as their saucy messages were displayed. ¡°It has been an¡­interesting read.¡± The screen vanished and Shhiv struggled to meet the purple, multi-iris eyes. ¡°You keep Jace romantically interested so Quinn has no chance. I do not want the Star Council to dig their claws into Jace¡­are we clear?¡± Shhiv nodded, ¡°Y-yeah¡­¡± ¡°Good girl. Just be aware, you have to be subtle about it. You can¡¯t just alienate her entirely. Keep her from getting involved with Jace, and you¡¯ll stay on my good side. Other than that? He¡¯s all yours. Don¡¯t break him¡­emotionally or physically. I need him intact.¡± Sera turned and left. Shhiv sat on the edge of her weight bench and felt a chill run through her. Private messages are private. No one is supposed to be able to access them¡­who the heck is she? She was jolted out of her thoughts as she heard Missy and Sera talking in the hallway briefly. Glancing out of her room, Missy waved at her. The plump woman walked over to Shhiv with a grin, wearing form-fitting clothing. ¡°Ready to get me in shape?¡± she asked. Shhiv nodded, ¡°Yeah. Sure. Did you pick up the pre-workout supplement I told you about?¡± ¡°Right here!¡± she said, holding up a pill bottle. ¡°Good. That¡¯ll enhance your metabolism and force the body to burn stored fat for energy, break down and mobilize the fat cells, and increase your metabolic rate. We¡¯ll do a cut first, and then a bulk.¡± A good workout and personal training session will get my mind off things. ¡°How exciting. I need to be able to fit into this wedding dress I eyed in a cute shop when I was out earlier.¡± Shhiv suppressed a laugh. Oh, sweetie. Your life is going to be miserable for the next hour.
Jace landed and let Priam off again and they went through the same buffing routine with a minor alteration ¨C Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 2), and Dark Energy Mine (Rank 1) placed on the tip of his blade. Priam used his Pulsar Ward (Rank 20) [Multi-Target], Pulsar Physic (Rank 2) [Contingent] ¨C as he only had to affect two targets ¨C and his Priest¡¯s Benediction (Rank 10) [Enduring] on himself. As he recovered his breath, holding Jace¡¯s arm for support, he nodded and swallowed a bit. ¡°I¡­I¡¯m good. Just give me a minute.¡± Jace nodded as he looked at the lava tube and the bubbling magma that rushed out of it and down the mountainside. ¡°A lot less room to walk. Also, that benediction thing will stay on you pretty much all the time, right?¡± ¡°Yeah¡­now that I¡¯ve used [Enduring] with it on myself,¡± Priam replied as he tugged the hat a little lower on his brow. His darting, almost-black, blue eyes were firmly affixed on his hand and the seemingly invisible space he was holding. ¡°What¡­what is that?¡± ¡°Oh. Dark Matter is invisible to anyone except for me and Ollie. You¡¯re holding my shield.¡± Priam smiled and nodded, ¡°Neat. Okay. Whew. I¡¯m good now. And I can help out in the fight this time! I got a combat Skill!¡± Jace couldn¡¯t help but smile at the buzzing enthusiasm coming from the bunny-boy. ¡°Good. Let¡¯s go in.¡± He walked up the tube and had to side-step and shimmy along a small ledge that ran alongside the lava. ¡°Watch your footing,¡± he muttered. ¡°Easy! I¡¯ve done tons of agility courses. Part of priest training.¡± ¡°What exactly is a priest?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Oh, well, it¡¯s a person who serves the gods. We conduct rituals, perform rites, sacrifice the ani-¡± ¡°Sacrifice?¡± Jace turned his head back at the young man. ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°Oh. Well, you kill the animal, take some of the cuts of meat ¨C normally the stuff that people don¡¯t like to eat like the liver ¨C and burn that to satiate the gods¡¯ hunger. Then we eat the good parts.¡± ¡°Oh, I thought you were going to say you sacrificed people,¡± Jace said as relief washed over him. ¡°Eww! No way! That¡¯s too mean!¡± Priam replied with a disgusted look. Ollie chuckled as he left Jace¡¯s neck and swam through the lava nearby, causing shimmering starlight ripples that were cosmetic only ¨C but an indicator of his happiness nonetheless. ¡°It¡¯s not human sacrifices like what you might have heard of in the tech-vamp-cults back on Earth.¡± Priam frowned, ¡°You have people sacrifices on Earth?¡± ¡°Not that I knew of,¡± Jace muttered as he looked at Ollie. ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°They have only cropped up recently since The Cosmic System introduced them to the wider universe as a whole. A few of the other species ¨C like ones that feed upon blood, or try to replace all of their physical components with mechanical ones ¨C migrated over before the Star Council and Planetary Independence Pact stopped transit to-and-from.¡± Ollie splashed around a bit in the phantom nebula before flying back up to Jace and wrapping around his neck like a fuzzy scarf. ¡°Good to know that we won¡¯t just be up against the corpos when I go back to Earth,¡± Jace replied. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. ¡°What-os?¡± Priam asked. ¡°Big businesses that basically rule everything,¡± Jace said back. ¡°Okay, the chamber opens up ahead.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 3.] [Number of foes to clear out: N/A ¨C see accompanying Quest.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Run the gauntlet.] [Time Limit: N/A] [Reward: Legendary (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace emerged into the chamber and was surprised ¨C it was not just a cavern like the prior Complexes had been ¨C this one started in a square chamber with a tunnel entrance on the opposite end made of worked stone. There was intricate scrollwork upon the shaped corridor, and Jace¡¯s vision combined with Universal Translation was able to read it out. ¡®Here lies the entrance of Thellor¡¯s Tomb. He who first conquered Ash Peak and claimed all four World Pillars. Once you pass the threshold, you have¡¯ ¨C the time was odd, but Jace¡¯s Skill was able to translate it to something he was familiar with ¨C ¡®5 minutes to reach the end.¡¯ Ollie curled around the back of his head and popped his head on top of Jace¡¯s under the hood. ¡°Interesting. Unique Complexes are not unheard of, but they are definitely rare.¡± ¡°That explains the increased reward!¡± Priam stated as he got into the chamber behind Jace. ¡°What do you think it means by ¡®run the gauntlet¡¯? Some type of time trial, sure, but is it dodging traps? Pure speed?¡± Jace frowned, ¡°I don¡¯t know. Ollie?¡± The otter shrugged and patted the sides of Jace¡¯s head playfully ¨C to his slight irritation. ¡°Nope! Nothing for it but just going in and trying.¡± Jace looked back at Priam, ¡°Looks like we gotta split up for a bit.¡± He pulled the backpack off, removed some rations, and handed them to Priam. ¡°Just in case. I¡¯m sure getting off the volcano tile, you¡¯ll find water.¡± ¡°You¡­you¡¯re abandoning me?¡± Priam asked, his voice filled with sorrow despite the near-whisper. Jace crouched slightly to be on his level, ¡°No. I¡¯m not going to abandon you,¡± like I abandoned Verve, ¡°I¡¯m going to be back. But if this is a time trial¡­well, I¡¯m faster without you.¡± Priam nodded and Bloopa became a series of fractals that Ollie translated, ¡°She wants permission to integrate with me. That means that we can track each other¡¯s location, provide information on our Aspirants, rapidly message despite distance, and more.¡± Jace looked at Priam and smiled, ¡°I trust him. Go for it, Ollie.¡± The two Wayfinders nodded and there was a spark of blue lightning that zapped between them. ¡°Done!¡± Ollie stated. ¡°By the way Priam¡­call me Jace. Flicker is just a code-name I used to stay safe.¡± Priam chuckled, ¡°I thought Flicker was a weird name.¡± Jace turned to the tunnel, ¡°Stay safe. I¡¯ll make this quick.¡± 5-minute time trial? Right in my wheelhouse. He¡¯d been a courier for god¡¯s sake, timed deliveries through hazardous territory and over all manner of obstacles was his bread and butter. ¡°Here we go,¡± he whispered as he sprinted into the tunnel.
¡°He¡¯ll be back,¡± Priam muttered to himself as he sat down and leaned against the wall. We can track his progress now that I am linked to Oliver. ¡°Should we call him Ollie as well?¡± No. He only lets his friends call him that. Just use Oliver, for now. ¡°Right. So, Bloopa¡­what can you tell me about this secret faction?¡± Very little, I am afraid. I can tell you very little because of restrictions put in place by X. ¡°But they¡¯re all about doing good in The Cosmic System?¡± Good is¡­subjective. They do what needs to be done to keep the System stable. This could involve saving a whole world, or assassinating a dictator, and a whole range in between. They are not purely altruistic. ¡°Oh¡­¡± Priam sulked and pulled his knees up to his chest. ¡°I¡­I don¡¯t know if I could work for someone like that.¡± The Dark Between Stars is not as popular as the other factions, sure, but they do fix things. Without the work that X does, and their Signers, the whole System would be in a much worse and more exploitable state. ¡°It¡¯s keeping things from getting worse. I¡­I suppose I could live with that.¡± After all, a Priest¡¯s job after interceding on behalf of the gods is to make sure the world continues well and properly¡­I would be doing the same thing, just on a System scale. ¡°How do I sign up?¡± Bloopa stopped moving entirely, and a singular, square panel in the center of her illuminated. A shadowed, humanoid figure appeared on the screen. He could not tell any features, but their voice was female. ¡°I am Xera¡­so, you are interested in being a Signer for me?¡± ¡°Yea,¡± Priam replied as he sat up a bit straighter. His hat brim squeezed down. Oh, good idea. ¡°Can I get a signing bonus or something? I don¡¯t have a lot of gear since I gave a lot of my Boons to¡­my old allies.¡± Xera¡­giggled, ¡°Sure. I can give you a small signing bonus I suppose.¡± Her voice shifted to become stern, ¡°Be aware, by becoming one of my Signers ¨C you will be fixing The Cosmic System. This may mean you do things you find distasteful or against your morals. Do you understand?¡± ¡°I do,¡± Priam replied. Like dad said, ¡®sometimes a man¡¯s gotta do things he ain¡¯t proud of¡¯. The hat squeezed down as if affirming his decision. ¡°Plus, Jace is keeping me safe, and I am protecting him. If he¡¯s part of your faction, I want to be a part of it, too. He got so strong; I want to be that strong! We can be an amazing team!¡± Priam¡¯s fingertips began glowing a deep purple. Xera sounded pleased. ¡°Welcome to the Dark Between Stars. Now, Bloopa will fill you in on the rest¡­but first, let¡¯s get that Signing bonus settled.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Stand up and stretch.] [Time Limit: N/A] [Reward: Legendary (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars] <<<<<>>>>> Priam smiled and stood up, raising his arms up and feeling the slight ¡®pop¡¯ of his joints. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Stand up and stretch.] [Time Limit: N/A] [Reward: Legendary (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: Dark Between Stars] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°I want to use that right now. I¡¯d love to get armored robes or something, so I don¡¯t have to worry about heat or cold and can survive a surprise attack.¡± ¡°I¡¯m heading off. Bloopa will take over once more. She¡¯s been present this whole time,¡± Xera stated. Bloopa began shifting and changing shapes, Congratulations! Okay, let¡¯s get you that new gear. <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Legendary (Equipment).] [Manifesting.] <<<<<>>>>> Priam¡¯s body was covered in luminous starlight that shimmered and clung to him for a few moments before vanishing. He was covered in a dull yellow with gold inlay cloak, and it was a little heavier than his prior clothes. It covered him from head to toe ¨C with a hood that came up and let his ears poke through. The floppy rim of the hat hugged to the sides of his head. These are called (Light) Archpriest Vestments. They are extremely heat and cold resistant. They also have the highest category of armor rating for a Tier 2, lighter set of attire. ¡°Out of curiosity, what¡¯s Jace¡¯s armor like?¡± Highest category of armor rating for a Tier 1 world, in a medium weight category. ¡°So, I¡¯ve got better armor?¡± Yup! ¡°Huh. Then I guess this next Boon reward should go to him. I mean, he¡¯s running the gauntlet, after all.¡± Well, about that - you won''t get any Boon from this because the reward is given to whoever reaches the end. "That''s fine! I got a signing bonus!" Chapter 58 – Running the gauntlet
As soon as he had passed the threshold, Jace saw a small line of text floating in front of him. Not a System message, but a magical message in the air. [4:55] And the timer was slowly ticking down. Ollie was tucked inside his hood and point to the left, ¡°Tripwire!¡± Jace slid under it. Thanks, but I already spotted that. He didn¡¯t want to say it aloud and let Ollie know that he didn¡¯t really need help with a sprinting-based challenge with obstacles. He let his old courier talents come to the forefront, relying on years of running through the streets and letting his peripheral vision ¨C greatly enhanced by the new eyes ¨C to keep him safe. He had already swapped the Dark Matter Shield to (Rank 3) so that he could easily utilize his grapnel arm, and had sheathed his blade as well ¨C not concerned about the imbuement effect fading, as he could re-do it for free thanks to the Starstorm Sword¡¯s innate quality. He was thankful he did, as he saw the walls begin to shift and move. Metal bars began to jut out at odd angles, forcing Jace to dip, duck, dive, slide, and kick off the walls to keep going at his rapid pace. The environment began to change slightly as the stone shifted and became a darker, black hue rather than the brown color it had been up to this point. The slope down got more steep, and if not for the clawed feet, Jace would have lost his footing and begun to slide down. The hallway evened out and the rocky pillars stopped jutting towards him ¨C instead, they were replaced by magical blades. Jace had to pull on every ounce of his control over his body to avoid the whirring, light-green, slicing objects. And yet the floor continued to get steeper. There was an arrow up ahead that pointed downward. A free-fall section? [4:03] Jace let out a laugh at how easily he traversed the terrain. Even during the free-fall; which was something he wasn¡¯t extremely familiar with, his training to kick off of walls back-to-back to get on top of buildings was paying off. The same principle ¨C just going down, and with odd angles to avoid the scything blades. Here he was, returning to his roots in a magic-filled world, and he was fueled by prosthetics he would have never dreamed of owning, and had literal Cosmic Power running through him. It made him giddy and the adrenaline coursing through him just urged him on even faster. The Dragonclaw Devastation Legs were extremely handy, as he was able to launch himself at angles that he would not have been able to if he had shoes alone. If not for the extra mobility they afforded ¨C he would have surely been sliced up by the blades. ¡°This is too easy,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°Something must be waiting ahead.¡± Jace couldn¡¯t help but smile widely at the challenge he was breezing through. His years of risky courier work was paying in dividends now. But eventually, the fall ended ¨C and a pit of spikes lay below. Firing off the Ghostlight Grapnel Arm, he swung into a tunnel entrance below. [3:44] The tunnel narrowed and Jace had to slip between the rocks, coiling his body around the crevices with every ounce of body control he had built up. At one point, the rocks were so close that he had to completely let out all of his breath and shove himself into the gap ¨C trusting in his arms on the other side to leverage him through. He popped out of the tight squeeze and saw a larger chamber beyond. There was a monstrous creature in the room. An enormous, horned creature with brown fur and piercing, maddened, red eyes that shone like orbs of malevolence given corporeal form. Jace drew his sword as the creature hefted an enormous battleaxe in its hands. ¡°Bring it!¡± Jace shouted as he took up a stance by instinct ¨C body bladed against the target with the hilt coiled towards his chest, and the tip pointed at his foe. The tiny, black dot of his Dark Energy Mine still lingered on the weapon. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending]. It blazed with crimson and purple light. The creature charged ahead, and Jace waited until the last second before ducking a horizontal blow and coming back with a slash across the creature¡¯s torso. He gripped down with his claws. Detonate. The axe-wielding monster began to float up, and Jace performed a standing kick, sending the monster careening to the other end of the room. He threw and recalled the blade over and over, stacking up the [Rending] and (Rank 5) effects, covering the monstrous body in the nebula that signified the damage over time and slowing effects, respectively. The monster put its feet against the wall behind it, and pushed forward ¨C flying towards Jace. He recalled the sword one more time and threw it a little under the creature. And release. The Dark Energy Mine ceased, and the axe-wielding behemoth thudded to the ground before skidding ¨C right into the thrown sword that pierced its head. Jace recalled the blade to his hand once more as the door at the far end of the chamber opened. ¡°Dust it,¡± he ordered as he ran by the creature. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 300] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°That puts you at 1680 ¨C enough for that level up to hit Tier 3 once you decide to confront Double-A.¡± Jace nodded as he kept running through the doorway and down another tunnel. Once more, the walls shifted slightly in hue and became a pale grey color like concrete bricks. Alright, thinking on my feet. What could come next? I had shifting terrain, blades, a vertical section, a fight. Jace was racking his brain and letting his body operate on instinct while he thought through every single form of media ¨C granted he hadn¡¯t seen many vids ¨C to think of any type of trap he could come across. Maybe something chasing me from behind? Sparing a glance back, he couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. An enormous surge of lava was chasing him, filling the entire tunnel¡­but he was outpacing it extremely well. He sheathed the sword. Looking forward, he saw a slight, golden glow of another archway door. Dashing through it, he skidded to a stop before clamping down with his claws. The doorway sealed over with a golden film, and text appeared on it. [You have defeated the gauntlet of Thellor.] [New record: time to clear 2:56.] [Congratulations! You have exceeded my expectations. Please, do not disturb my tomb. If you wish to know my story, there is a podium with a book. The contents of the reward chest are yours to take ¨C and if there are none, my sincere condolences.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Run the gauntlet.]The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. [Time Limit: N/A] [Reward: Legendary (Equipment) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace looked around the chamber as he sucked in breath and put his arms above his head into a recovery position. There room was all pristine, white marble with silvery inlay that formed a variety of scrollwork that told stories about this Thellor. Ollie floated around the room and inspected the three major items ¨C a podium with a gilded book, a chest that was made of black wood and chased silver, and a pristine, black sarcophagus. Jace walked over to the sarcophagus. ¡°Here lies Thellor, companion and ally to the Archmage until his dying day.¡± He looked over at Ollie who had his head buried in the still-closed book. ¡°Can you even read that?¡± Ollie nodded and pulled his head out, ¡°It is just data in a different format. I read all of it. Thellor was a childhood friend of The Ascendant Archmage; turns out his actual name is Yholl Tristrus. They were both the most powerful magic user and martial user ¨C respectively ¨C during their lifetimes. When Cosmogenic Merging hit, the two chose Aspirant. The two survived, became Ascendants at Tier 4, and then returned home.¡± ¡°Let me guess,¡± Jace said as he leaned against the sarcophagus. ¡°They disagreed on how to run things.¡± ¡°Yeah. Yholl wanted to rule the world as Ascendants and join the Planetary Independence Pact, whereas Thellor wanted to world to join the Star Council. They both got into a fight about it, and Yholl won. Thellor was given a burial here, and his lingering¡­essence? Crafted the gauntlet.¡± ¡°I wonder if Yholl knew it was here,¡± Jace commented as he went over to the chest. He knelt and examined the seams along the top, not finding any indication of a trap or locking mechanism. ¡°Probable, since he made the dungeons ¨C Complexes ¨C for this Dungeon Run. I would bet he had a hand in this whole tomb gauntlet.¡± Jace pulled open the lid, holding his breath. Inside the chest was a single pillow, and on top of it was an ornate vambrace that could fit over his forearm. Pulling it out, he held it up, ¡°Mind figuring out what it is?¡± he asked Ollie. Ollie flew over and scanned it, grinning with delight. ¡°Oh, it is called Thellor¡¯s Everguard. it projects a magic shield on the arm with it equipped - just like your Dark Matter Shield (Rank 1) and (Rank 2). But The Cosmic System co-opts it differently. It will make any Shield Skill free, just like the Starstorm Sword does for weapon imbuement.¡± Jace grinned and strapped it on his Anathema Arm over the armored suit. ¡°I assume that (Rank 3) will still cost me energy each time I¡¯m struck. It¡¯s just the activation energy cost that is negated?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie flew back over and snuggled around Jace¡¯s neck once more inside his hood. ¡°Same with the [Reflecting] Evolution ¨C you will not be able to negate that cost.¡± ¡°Noted,¡± Jace replied as he scratched Ollie¡¯s head. The simple action filled him with a sense of calm, and Ollie seemingly enjoyed a spot right under the chin. ¡°Now, how do I leave?¡± He turned around, and saw through the golden, glowing doorway that he could see the main chamber he had initially entered. ¡°That answers that.¡± He glanced back at the sarcophagus. Street folk code dictated that ¡®the dead no longer need it¡¯ when it came to anything scavengeable. ¡°Ollie, how bad would it be if I opened his tomb and took whatever was inside?¡± Ollie flew out of Jace¡¯s armored hood and dipped into the stone tomb. He popped his head out, ¡°Nothing I can see in here worth taking. Just old bones.¡± He flew back and settled into his new usual spot. ¡°You would be willing to tomb raid?¡± ¡°I mean, if he had something useful. It is not like he needs it anymore.¡± ¡°It is pragmatic. Perfect for a Dark Between Stars Signer.¡± Ollie¡¯s eyes went black for a moment before snapping back, ¡°Speaking of¡­look at Priam¡¯s hands.¡± Jace looked through the doorway and saw the slight, purple glow around his hands. ¡°Well, look at that. Looks like Xera found herself another Signer.¡±
Priam looked up as Jace walked through the archway seemingly from out of nowhere. One moment it was empty, the next he was there. ¡°Welcome to the club,¡± he said as he pulled his gloves off and flexed his fingers in front of Priam. They were the same purple color as his own, and he wiggled them for a moment before putting the glove back on. Priam nodded and stood up, ¡°Yeah! I talked to this Xera lady, and Bloopa filled me in on a lot of stuff. We have our own building?! And I get my own apartment! That¡¯s awesome!¡± Motion caught his attention as a golden pylon popped out of the lava. Jace walked over, snagged the dungeon core, and added it to his pack. ¡°That makes it 52 dungeon cores, and 2 more Complexes on this volcano tile. Then, it¡¯s off to the desert tile in the corner of the map.¡± ¡°Why?¡± Priam asked. Jace looked at him and his eyes were inscrutable, but the facial features showed Priam that there was a deep resolve. ¡°Double-A is really a guy named Yholl who killed his best friend, the guy whose tomb is down that gauntlet. Yholl did something to make himself practically unkillable.¡± Jace dug around in the pack and handed a cracked-in-half, stone, circle tablet to him. Priam looked it over and mumbled to himself, ¡°Its sort of like a soul-prism for our elders back home, but its really rudimentary. This guy had no clue about soulcraft and manipulating essence.¡± ¡°Soulcraft?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Ah, manipulating a person¡¯s ¡®innermost self¡¯. If you don¡¯t like the word soul, you can use consciousness, or life slash vital essence.¡± Priam handed it back to Jace, ¡°I¡¯m guessing the desert tile has the other half?¡± ¡°Yup,¡± Ollie replied. Jace put the item back, ¡°Well, I¡¯ve got a few Boons to use. Ollie, let¡¯s use the Common (Equipment) to get Priam a (Light) Venture Pack, and the Uncommon (Equipment) to get him one of these enhanced canteens.¡± He began pulling survival meal pouches out of his bag and dividing them up. ¡°Just in case. I¡¯d rather us both have a bag to keep supplies. Worst case scenario¡­neither of us is screwed.¡± Priam felt his heart race a little. That¡¯s¡­so kind. He really is a nice person. He looked over at Bloopa and felt the slight tickling of the light-blue energy cascading over him from shimmering starlight. Within a few seconds it faded, and he had a nifty, similar-to-Jace¡¯s-but-smaller pack slung around his shoulders. He felt a little weight in it, and whipping it off, found another canteen inside just like what Jace had let him use. ¡°You¡­used Boons on me?¡± Jace smiled and helped him move his half ¨C 14 ¨C of the survival meals into his pack. ¡°I don¡¯t need Common or Uncommon rarity Equipment. I¡¯m a bit past that.¡± He gestured to his arms, legs, eyes ¨C and Priam couldn¡¯t disagree in the slightest. ¡°What was it like? Replacing your body like that?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t want to do that for a lot of it,¡± Jace replied as he put on his pack and showed Priam how his straps worked to get it snug. ¡°I lost my lower legs in an accident back on Earth. And my arm was lost during my Aspirant Trial ¨C my right arm. The left was cut off by a Conclave Ascendant, and I had one of my eyes stabbed out by a Nebula mage who was killing other Aspirants on this¡­Nihil¡­Nihel-¡± ¡°Nihilethelea,¡± Priam corrected. ¡°Right, this world. And having one magic prosthetic eye was¡­jarring? It gave me a headache. So, I replaced my other eye by choice.¡± He chuckled, ¡°Plus, I¡¯ve got this cool stuff inside me called CIF that means my prosthetics feel like they are a part of me.¡± Priam nodded, ¡°That¡¯s cool! I couldn¡¯t and wouldn¡¯t, but that¡¯s neat that it doesn¡¯t disrupt your soul energy.¡± ¡°My what-now?¡± Chapter 59 – Soul Energy, gods, and magic
Jace was struck with a slight bit of concern, soul energy? He thought. What the hell is that? Priam nodded as they began shimmying out of the tight lava tube alongside the rivulet of simmering magma. ¡°The less of ¡®you¡¯ there is for your body, the weaker your soul energy is. It¡¯s how you connect to the gods. Do you have gods on your world?¡± ¡°Not that I know of,¡± Jace replied. ¡°Their gods are dead,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°They died during an earlier era.¡± ¡°We had gods?¡± Jace asked, shocked at the sudden revelation. ¡°A lot of them. But they only exist as long as they are worshipped. Earth is very agnostic or atheistic ¨C as is the trend with most technology or magitech worlds.¡± ¡°Right!¡± Priam followed up. ¡°Anyways, the more artificial parts, the weaker that magic manifests for you. That¡¯s because you have less soul energy. Oh, when you use magic, that¡¯s called a spell!¡± Ollie interrupted, ¡°Think of soul energy like compatibility with magic. So, your current soul energy is at around 25% due to your prosthetics, whereas Priam¡¯s is at¡­150%?¡± ¡°That means that the Archmage stuff I can do once a day-¡± ¡°Is operating at 25% efficiency,¡± Ollie completed. ¡°Whereas if Priam was using those Skills? Why, he would be moving mountains. However, your artificial form is much hardier and can take more punishment.¡± ¡°Why are they Skills and not something separate?¡± Jace asked. ¡°It is how The Cosmic System integrates them,¡± Ollie explained. ¡°Magic, whether divine and granted by gods, or pure and native to that world - could be used in spells. Spells are the manifestation of magic enacted through will ¨C and after Cosmogenic Merging, they were turned into Skills for classification purposes.¡± ¡°My clan were the god¡¯s chosen servants¡­but they¡¯re all gone now¡­¡± Priam trailed off for a moment before shaking his head and gripping his wide-brimmed hat, ¡°Our soul energy is excellent.¡± He frowned and his voice dropped lower and became much softer, ¡°But I¡¯m the last one¡­¡± Jace felt a pang of sympathy but needed to know more, so he turned to Ollie. ¡°Give me an example.¡± ¡°Okay, so let us say that pre-Cosmogenic Merging, you could use a fire beam spell. Post-Cosmogenic Merging, it would become a Skill and be given a dedicated name if it did not already have one. If, say, the standard Skill manifested as a beam that was 10 feet in diameter, yours would be 2.5 feet, and Priam¡¯s would be 15 feet. That is because of your soul energy.¡± ¡°That makes sense,¡± Jace replied. ¡°Thank you for the example.¡± ¡°You are welcome!¡± Ollie said, patting Jace¡¯s head with his little paws almost like he was a drummer. ¡°How do gods factor into all of this?¡± Priam raised his hand, his head perking up. ¡°I can answer that! May I, Ollie- erm, Oliver?¡± Ollie nodded, ¡°I give you permission to use my nickname. And yes, please do share your perspective.¡± They exited the lava tube and began to prepare for another one of Jace¡¯s jumps with the Dark Energy Mine. Priam spoke the whole time, even as they began their controlled gravity-less launch and fall. ¡°Worlds that are magic function off magic ¨C like this world, with its World Pillars that I read about in a dossier ¨C or gods and goddesses. Think of them like integral parts of the world. When Cosmogenic Merging hit, The Cosmic System co-opted them. So, a pure-magic user on Nihilethelea pre-merging would gain a few Skills even if they were not an Aspirant or Ascendant post-merging. Someone blessed by the gods from my world would have divine-magic converted into Skills. With me so far?¡± Jace nodded, and Ollie quipped, ¡°Yes, this does mean that some Civilians have Skills, but other than that tidbit - you are nailing it. Keep going.¡± Priam grinned, ¡°Thank you for the compliment! Right, so, some magic worlds have divine-magic, some have pure-magic. Some have both- ¡± ¡°Like the world your Anathema Arm comes from, Harkonon Secundus,¡± Ollie whispered to Jace. ¡°-And some worlds have none,¡± Priam continued. ¡°What about Earth¡¯s gods?¡± Jace asked. ¡°Ollie said they¡¯re dead.¡± ¡°Gods only exist if they are worshipped. Stop worshipping, and their power dwindles until they stop existing,¡± Priam was spouting off information quite rapidly, and his sorrow from the earlier insight into his clan¡¯s demise had all but vanished. ¡°And like he said, magitech or technology focused worlds often forsake their gods in the name of scientific advancement.¡± Priam grinned, ¡°I picked up a lot at school in Khrox.¡± ¡°Are they Civilians, Aspirants, or Ascendants?¡± Priam screwed up his face as Jace landed and reactivated another mine-launch. ¡°I don¡¯t know that.¡± ¡°I do,¡± Ollie stated. ¡°They are not considered ¡®people¡¯. Think of them as AI constructs that are sustained by the will of the masses. They were not integrated into The Cosmic System proper. They are also contained to that world.¡± ¡°Then how did Wricen become a ¡®god-king¡¯?¡± Priam asked. Ollie frowned, ¡°Well, he is not a real ¡®god¡¯ like the deities you worship. He is just an Ascendant masquerading as one. A strong Ascendant, too. Tier 5. He had to be that Tier at minimum as your world, Priam, is Tier 5 as well. He is a Signer for the Planetary Independence Pact. And only the same or higher Tier may take over their home world as the local administrator of The Cosmic System.¡± Seems like all of them are selfish assholes, Jace thought. First this Yholl Archmage guy, and now this Wricen god-king. Makes sense; you would have to be really entitled to rule a whole world. The idea held no appeal to Jace at all. It sounded like a pain in the ass, being way too much work. Priam continued his conversation with Ollie, ¡°How would we stop him?¡± ¡°You kill him. He can die just like any Aspirant or Ascendant.¡± ¡°Oh¡­that¡¯s¡­hmm¡­easier than I thought.¡± he tapped Jace on the shoulder, ¡°I am guessing we are going to that desert tile next because you want to shatter the soul-prism to make him vulnerable?¡± Jace nodded, ¡°The plan is to give him the dungeon cores, get the Legendary reward, level up quickly so I close the gap between Tiers ¨C he¡¯ll still be 1 Tier above me, but I think I can take him with Arbiter¡¯s Anathema shutting down his Skills. Especially if a lot of them are magic ¨C the arm can negate a lot of it.¡± ¡°Bold plan. You¡¯ll need backup!¡± ¡°I¡¯ve got you now, and those shields,¡± Jace replied as he landed in front of another lava tube and Priam slipped out of the gap between his pack and his back. The thought of having a partner in this whole venture filled him with a sense of confidence that he hadn¡¯t experienced in quite a long time. Jace tightened the straps on his pack and drew his sword. ¡°Ready?¡± ¡°Yeah! My Skills are still active.¡± Jace smiled, ¡°Give me a moment for mine. Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3).¡± The weapon blazed with its fury and his shield popped around him. He could make out the near-honeycomb structure of Priam¡¯s barrier surrounding him. ¡°Only two left on this tile. Let¡¯s go.¡± He paused, ¡°One more question though. If some pure-magic spells and divine-magic blessings become Skills¡­what about my Skills?¡± Ollie raised his paw, ¡°Those are powered by Cosmic Power ¨C which is stronger than pure-magic and divine-magic. Think of it as being on a different level entirely. Soul energy coefficient doesn''t matter to Cosmic Power."
Priam followed Jace down the lava tube. Bloopa was shimmering next to him in her fractal patterns. You should know that this Archmage Ascendant is quite powerful. ¡°Yeah, but if Jace thinks that it needs to go, then we¡¯ll deal with it.¡± Priam was quiet enough that he didn¡¯t think Jace heard him, but if he did there was no indication as the Dark Matter Aspirant kept walking forward alongside the lava. It wasn¡¯t like he was trying to hide his conversation; but Jace didn¡¯t need the distraction. I also received news regarding your new accommodations. There are others there ¨C other Aspirants and their companions that Jace has met so far. Quinn Cipher; a Signer for the Star Council, Greg Bhastal, who is not Signed yet, his Civilian partner, and Jace¡¯s Civilian partner. ¡°Oh? Jace, you have a partner?¡± ¡°What?¡± Jace asked as he looked back at Priam. ¡°Bloopa, who is it?¡± Priam asked. Someone named Shhiv. ¡°Someone named Shhiv,¡± Priam conveyed from the mass of shapes of his Wayfinder¡¯s communication. Jace¡¯s face went red, and he looked back to the front as the chamber opened up, ¡°I¡­well¡­sure- yeah, I guess you could say that.¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 3.] [Number of foes to clear out: 6.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Explosive Shardlings.] [Time Limit: N/A] [Reward: Epic (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace took up a ready stance and Priam hung back in the tunnel entrance. There was a bubbling pool in the center of the room that was the size of a small pond. I don¡¯t see any enemies, Priam thought as he scanned the room. His hat tugged on his head and he heard a whisper from his (Insightful) Dad¡¯s Hat. ¡°Look at the rocks on the ceiling.¡± Priam glanced up at the roof and spotted a few odd clusters of rocks that had little, glimmering, red streaks throughout. ¡°Is it those?¡± he asked.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. Jace looked up as well, ¡°Maybe?¡± He threw his sword up at one of them ¨C and the room exploded. Priam¡¯s barrier began to weaken, and he cursed as he waited for it to be just on the verge of collapse. Timing was everything. A second explosion went off, and he saw Jace standing in front of him; some weird outline of a large rectangle blocking off his body from most of the explosions. He must¡¯ve swapped his Dark Matter Shield to something more direction-focused. The cracks spread along the hexagon, honeycomb structure surrounding the two. ¡°Pulsar Ward (Rank 20) [Multi-Target]!¡± Priam shouted. The barrier structure was replaced in an instant with a full-strength barrier as another explosion went off. Jace tried to shout something over the din, but Priam was deafened by the raucous explosions. A third one went off, a tremendous boom that shook his teeth. Glancing at Bloopa, she was able to translate something of what he had said. He says that there are three more; and wants to know if you are good to push through the last few explosions. ¡°I¡¯m good!¡± Priam shouted as he held up his tome, ¡°Just a little tired.¡± Bloopa flew forward and moved in her geometric patterns. Ollie¡¯s paw pointed up, and Priam watched as Jace threw his blade once more. A moment later, another enormous boom shattered through the space. Priam saw the cracks appearing once more on the barriers. Timing is everything¡­ a fifth boom went off, and the barrier began to shatter inward. ¡°Pulsar Ward (Rank 20) [Multi-Target]!¡± Once more, the yellowish honeycomb structure reappeared around the two. A sixth and final explosion echoed out before the noise began to quiet down. Priam¡¯s hearing was shot, and it would take a while to come back. He saw Jace turn around and his mouth moving. Priam held up his hand, ¡°Pulsar Physic (Rank 2).¡± The Skill would cure a single injury and affliction on a target up to 30 feet away, and at Rank 2, could affect 2 creatures. He felt his hearing come back with a pop noise. ¡°Okay¡­ow!¡± He also felt extremely sleepy and leaned against the wall, breathing heavily. Jace chuckled, ¡°Your barriers saved the day.¡± Ollie nodded from inside the armored hood, ¡°Yup! The shockwaves would have pulverized us in this circular chamber.¡± ¡°How were¡­we supposed¡­to fight these things?¡± Priam asked in between breaths as the pillar appeared in the center of the room. <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay the Explosive Shardlings.] [Time Limit: N/A] [Reward: Epic (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace grabbed the golden orb, ¡°53,¡± he stated as he pulled his backpack off and shoved it inside. ¡°Well, I¡¯d bet that you¡¯re supposed to contain them somehow ¨C maybe a wall or something like that?¡± Ollie flew out from his neck, ¡°Dust incoming!¡± There were bits of rubble strewn about the chamber, and it all turned to Stardust and flew into his hand. He then shot half of it into Bloopa. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 600] <<<<<>>>>> He shook his head and headed out the tunnel. ¡°Let¡¯s go. Those booms would¡¯ve echoed out across the whole tile. We don¡¯t want to be here if someone tracks this place down.¡± Priam nodded, ¡°Can¡­sounds weird¡­can you carry me? I¡¯m tired.¡± Jace shrugged and loosened his pack¡¯s straps, ¡°Sure. Hop on.¡± Priam did so and secured himself around Jace¡¯s torso. He yawned, ¡°What are you going to use your Skill Evolution on?¡± ¡°Not sure yet. You?¡± Priam looked up at Bloopa, ¡°I¡¯d like to nap¡­but let¡¯s¡­that Evolve that Smite thing¡­and level up. Another Rank¡­into Benediction.¡± He felt sleep drawing him on. <<<<<>>>>> Name: Priam Westerfold (Aspirant, Tier 2) Power [Class Level]: Pulsar [Priest 40] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Pulsar Ward (Rank 20) [Multi-Target], Pulsar Physic (Rank 10) [Contingent], Priest''s Benediction (Rank 11) [Enduring], Priest''s Smite (Rank 1) [Marking] Stardust: 50 Equipment: (Light) Archpriest Vestments, (Conservation) Priest tome, (Insightful) Dad''s Hat, (Light) Venture Pack, enhanced canteen, survival meals (x14) Boons: Common (Information), Rare (Equipment Augmentation), Epic (Information) <<<<<>>>>> Priest¡¯s Benediction (Rank 11) - (Rank 11) As Rank 10, increases the target''s sensory traits by a massive amount. <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Skill Evolution)] [Applying to Skill.] [Skill Name: Priest¡¯s Smite.] [Evolution Name: Marking.] [Effect: Targets who are struck are illuminated by a mark. Any second attack or Skill inflicted by the user or any designated as allies will detonate the mark, dealing additional damage.] <<<<<>>>>> Those are neat, Priam thought as his eyes fluttered shut and he surrendered to a peaceful sleep, feeling quite safe strapped to Jace¡¯s back.
¡°It is adorable,¡± Ollie whispered as Bloopa vanished with a pop. ¡°What is?¡± Jace asked as he got out of the lava tube and checked the small map Ollie almost always had active just about at chest level ¨C a quick glance down to view. ¡°You have a bunny on your back.¡± Jace shook his head, ¡°His barriers weren¡¯t needed for me to survive that, but thanks for making him feel valuable.¡± ¡°You would be hurting pretty badly from the shockwave damaging your internal organs. Even with your Cosmic Infusion and armor, I would be shocked if you survived. Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3) would have protected you ¨C why remove it in favor of the (Rank 2) version?¡± I wanted to protect Verve, was what Jace was going to reply. But he corrected himself when he actually spoke, ¡°I wanted to protect Priam. I was able to take the brunt of the blo-¡± ¡°That is not how physics work! Explosive detonations result in a shockwave that impacts and reflects off of solid surfaces! You were getting hit from all sides, not just the front! That¡¯s where the heat was coming from ¨C but most of the harm was focused in those concussive waves. If not for Priam¡­¡± Ollie let the thought trail off. If not for Priam¡­I¡¯d be dead, is what he¡¯s implying. Jace cursed ¨C not for the first time ¨C at his lack of having an education. Being raised on the streets gave a unique skillset that definitely helped him survive. But situations like the one he just experienced? More and more he saw the value of getting actual education on how the world worked. ¡°Ollie, can you do something for me?¡± ¡°Sure!¡± ¡°Find a way to get me some schooling. Something fast. There are high-technology worlds, right? They probably have some type of tool that¡­I don¡¯t know¡­downloads information right to my brain?¡± ¡°I will ask Xera.¡± Jace nodded and took a deep breath, ¡°Right. Let¡¯s use that Legendary (Equipment) and the Epic (Skill Evolution).¡± ¡°What do you want?¡± Ollie asked. ¡°My armor is the top of Tier 1, but I want the top of Tier 2. I don¡¯t want to drop all those (Equipment Augmentations) I¡¯ve applied to my current gear. Will the newer (Equipment) Boon¡­roll the changes into the new one?¡± ¡°As long as it is the same type. Meaning (Light), (Medium), or (Heavy). Swapping types? You would lose them. Your prosthetics should be good to swap out as well. So your (Overclocked) Dragonclaw Devastation Legs would have the (Overclocked) Augmentation transfer over to a new set of prosthetic legs.¡± ¡°Give me that armor. And as for the Skill Evolution, I want to apply it to Dark Matter Cloak.¡± ¡°Roger! Here we go!¡± <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Epic (Skill Evolution).] [Applying to Skill.] [Skill Name: Dark Matter Cloak.] [Evolution Name: Group.] [Effect: The Skill may be applied to a group of allies (up to your level divided by 10) with no additional cost.] <<<<<>>>>> [Using Boon: Legendary (Equipment).] [Manifesting.] <<<<<>>>>> Jace saw the sparkling all along his body and within an instant his whole outfit was changed. No longer the tiny, flexible scale-covered suit. It was a series of singular pieces, bound together with black threads. ¡°Aegisleather. It is (Medium) for the type, and still retains the (Snowguard) and (Burnguard) (Equipment Augmentations). It is the highest in protectiveness for a Tier 2 world.¡± ¡°So the only thing better would be another Legendary (Equipment) Boon from, say, Earth.¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Ollie nestled into the hood, ¡°You won¡¯t notice much of a mechanical difference, save that your innate protection due to the armor has gone up.¡± ¡°It should give me a once per day Skill, right? Since it¡¯s a Legendary piece of gear.¡± Ollie shook his head, ¡°I¡­Huh, not this one. I will make sure to ask Xera why that is.¡± His eyes went black for a moment, and when they flashed back on he put on a pouty face. ¡°Oh, so apparently the Legendary Equipment giving a Skill is not a guarantee. It is highly probable ¨C 95% of the time, it does happen according to her numbers.¡± ¡°So I just got unlucky.¡± ¡°Yup. Sorry.¡± Jace shrugged, ¡°Shit happens. Can¡¯t cry over spilled nutripaste. The ability to Cloak a group is¡­well, that¡¯s big.¡± ¡°Especially when Xera sends you back to Earth,¡± Ollie replied. ¡°The (Terrifying) thing on my eyes, plus all of us being able to go around undetected? It¡¯ll be a cakewalk.¡± ¡°Unless the world goes up a Tier. It depends on how quickly technology advances and if The Cosmic System re-categorizes it.¡± ¡°Then we¡¯ve got to move fast. Do we have to wait until the Dungeon Run is over to claim the prize?¡± ¡°It ends early if there are no more dungeon cores to claim.¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Then let¡¯s get a move on. One more for the volcano tile. Then, onto the desert and finding that soul-thingy.¡± Chapter 60 – Prying eyes are watching you
The Archmage Ascendant, Double-A to some, Yholl Tristrus as he once was known ¨C sat on the balcony of his enormous castle in the once-capital city of Nihil¡¯s Hold. Now his personal, luxurious estate, he looked out over the floating map in front of him. The past few days had been very excellent, and day 4 was coming to a close. With the rate this is going, I would imagine 2 more days at the most. He picked up his glass of wine, swirled it, and took a sip. A System notification popped up in his vision. <<<<<>>>>> [Thellor¡¯s Tomb has been conquered.] <<<<<>>>>> Unsurprising, he thought. I wonder how many died attempting it? Waving his hand, he muttered a Skill, ¡°Scrying Senses.¡± His vision was transported across the world to the tomb, and down the tunnel of the gauntlet. He saw the minotaur, slain¡­but only the minotaur¡¯s blood was present. There was no other type of blood present. Strange, it should have killed at least a few Aspirants. He went forward and saw the tomb undisturbed. And they didn¡¯t try to plunder his tomb? This didn¡¯t make sense. No one should have been able to traverse the gauntlet on their first attempt, and without injury. Did a non-Tier 2 get past somehow? Slip inside past my protections. He cackled, no. No, of course not! I rule this world, no one can break my strictures. An enormous explosion noise echoed down to where his senses were present. Oooh, I wonder what that was? He flew his vision towards the magical shockwaves rippling across the landscape, and came across one of these new humans, carrying a rabbit-person on his back out of one of the lava tubes. Ah, let¡¯s just check how many dungeon cor- He stopped as his vision pierced the backpack, tuned to dungeon cores. 53! How? What?! How many other Aspirants has he slain? Chronovision. He saw the history of this individual going back¡­what? He can¡¯t have just appeared! Some type of obfuscation? He could see the figure having slain two enemies and rescued the rabbit-person. But then he vanished. He¡­must have a Skill that enables him to completely remove himself from reality? Switching over, he sped his vision to the Eastern cave tile ¨C the first one to get rapidly cleared ahead of the rest, and activated Chronovision again. He saw the figure entering the cave complex, followed the replay ¨C at a rapidly-sped-up pace ¨C and witnessed him claiming The World Pillar for geomancy. And then he cleared all of the Complexes in the tile? The man vanished once more, and moving to the glacier tile, Yholl saw him claim that World Pillar as well. He rapidly went from location to location. He can turn himself invisible, undetectable, and untraceable. Some type of Skill I¡¯ve never heard of. Must be a new Class. Back at his body, he shook his head, and his projected sense flew out to the individual once more. And now he¡¯s flying! That¡¯s not allowed by the laws of real- oh, no. It¡¯s not flight. Just an intriguing use of a slow-fall Skill. Huh. The individual looked back at his sensor ¨C somehow spotting it ¨C and vanished once more. He withdrew to his body and chuckled as he took a sip of his wine. ¡°This is turning out to be quite the interesting Dungeon Run. I¡¯ve never had an Aspirant or Ascendant gather that many cores¡­who is this person?¡±
¡°The sensor is still up there,¡± Jace muttered. He was in mid-air, and was looking back to check on Priam, when he saw an odd, floating face. Immediately, he had activated Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3) on both himself and Priam. ¡°That was probably Yholl. A spell ¨C so, a Skill, now ¨C that he used to project his senses.¡± ¡°So, he is tracking us,¡± Jace stated. ¡°He probably was notified when you cleared that crypt-gauntlet thing.¡± Jace felt a moment of panic, ¡°Could he¡­do you think he knows we have half of his soul-thingy?¡± ¡°Doubtful. The rock itself has no properties that magic vision such as what that sensor is capable of could have seen. Only when both halves are combined. That will get his attention.¡± Jace felt relief, ¡°Good. One more dungeon for the volcano tile, and then I say we beeline it for the desert tile.¡± Looking up in the sky, he kicked off the ground again and used another Dark Energy Mine, ¡°How late is it?¡± ¡°The day is close to ending. Day 4.¡± Jace looked down at the map as he grappled to an outcropping of rock and passed over a lava channel; the boiling, bubbling rivulet pouring over the landscape like a river. Most of the Complexes are being cleared quickly. I doubt it¡¯ll last another 6 days before all the cores are gathered. ¡°Have you thought about how you will confront him?¡± Ollie asked. ¡°Well, I¡¯m going to turn in these dungeon cores, get my reward. And then, when we are saying our goodbyes and getting ready to leave ¨C activate the cloak, break the soul-thingy, and then kill him.¡± ¡°And you are sure of your conviction?¡± Jace nodded as he touched down outside a lava tube. Finding a hidden crevice in the rocks, he shoved Priam inside and left his bag next to the bunny-boy ¨C so that he would know he had not been abandoned. He drew his blade and infused it with the Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending], and his Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3). ¡°He pushed his own people out of this world and killed his best friend. He deserves death. Plus, it will let the people who lived here come back if they want to.¡± Ollie scratched the top of his head, ¡°Good. Keep doing good stuff for The Cosmic System.¡± Jace smirked and nodded.
I may not be able to see you, but I can guess that you will be heading to the last volcano-tile dungeon. Yholl cackled with delight as he clapped his hands and one of his enchanted wine glasses refilled itself. He was watching through his sensors from the center of the chamber. All around the exterior of the room, there were dark, black balls of goop. Deathslimes. The most potent of the normally weak slime grouping of creatures. He watched eagerly, time to see what this invisible person can do.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
<<<<<>>>>> [Warning! You are about to enter a Complex!] [This location has been marked by The Cosmic System as Tier 3.] [Number of foes to clear out: 50.] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest: Slay the Deathslimes.] [Time Limit: N/A] [Reward: Epic (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Deathslimes?¡± Jace asked as his eyes caught the slight, magical hue outlining the various goopy, black spheres on the ceiling. ¡°They cause instant necrosis upon contact with flesh. It won¡¯t be able to get through your armor from single contact ¨C but sustained contact they will eat through it. Your Anathema Arm is safe from them.¡± Jace grinned, ¡°I¡¯ve got an idea.¡± He ran over to one of the slimes, punched it with the Anathema left arm, and thought hard about what he wanted. Get rid of this magic.
Yholl spit out his wine, ¡°What?!¡± His Deathslimes. His beautiful, wonderful, dastardly creatures that should have killed dozens of Aspirants were popping like balloons. ¡°That¡¯s not even how slimes die! They fizzle away to nothingness! You can¡¯t just¡­treat them like that! They are supposed to split apart when killed! Doubling their numbers!¡± He was tapping his foot back at his body out of a nervous habit. He racked his brain for every spell he knew, every single variant of every type of Skill at his disposal. Every single tome locked away in his memories for easy recollection¡­and he came up with nothing. ¡°How are you doing this!¡±
Jace was laughing with delight as he cleared the room with incredible ease. One at a time, each slime he touched would pop. ¡°This Anathema Arm just is not fair on a magic world.¡± ¡°What do you expect? It is from a Tier 8, high-magic world that had both gods and World Pillar equivalents.¡± The thrill of just punching over and over and watching these supposedly dangerous creatures just get utterly obliterated was pumping adrenaline through Jace¡¯s body. Was every fight this easy and I just did things the hard way? Every one of the things I¡¯ve fought is a magical creature. ¡°Ollie? Could I have just¡­done this to everything?¡± ¡°Nope! These are purely magical constructs. That is why it is working so well.¡± Good, so I wasn¡¯t wasting my time and risking my neck. He finished popping the spheres of goop, the pillar rose up, and Ollie dusted the corpses as Jace collected the orb. 54, and the volcano tile is done. <<<<<>>>>> [Stardust Acquired: 500] <<<<<>>>>> [Quest Completed: Slay the Deathslimes.] [Time Limit: N/A] [Reward: Epic (Skill Evolution) Boon.] [Sender: The Cosmic System.] <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Can you siphon off 250 Stardust for Priam?¡± ¡°I¡¯ll set it off to the side,¡± Ollie replied. Jace walked out and got to Priam ¨C who was still covered in the slight-purple hue of his Cloak. Jace felt tired; not extremely so but taking a nap would be nice. He hoisted up the bunny-boy, latched him onto his back between the backpack and him, and launched up with another Dark Energy Mine. ¡°I¡¯m skipping the mountains and going right for that desert,¡± Jace stated as he flew through the sky ¨C not bothering to re-anchor himself. Go far, go fast. He had maybe 3 minutes left before his Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3) would tap him dry and he¡¯d pass out. ¡°You won¡¯t be able to get all the way there,¡± Ollie commented. ¡°Just get into that mountain tile. We can find a cave and set up the tent.¡± Jace nodded and felt the Mine¡¯s effect begin to fade. Reactivating the skill just before they would have landed, he came to a gentle stop and used his grapnel to pull himself amongst the rocks. ¡°Find me a cave?¡± he asked as his energy continued to drain away, and he felt extremely sluggish. Ollie flew out from his neck and pointed, ¡°There.¡± Jace followed the instructions and found a twenty-foot-deep cave with a turn in the center ¨C perfect for preventing line of sight. Setting up the tent, he rolled Priam in ¨C who was still fast asleep ¨C and sealed up the entrance. ¡°I don¡¯t like not setting watch,¡± Jace muttered as he dropped the Cloak. Ollie frowned, ¡°Not much choice. At least we didn¡¯t see the sensor following us. No way it can find us now!¡± ¡°Hope you¡¯re right,¡± Jace muttered as he ripped open a portion of rations, scarfed it down, and chased it with some water before laying down on his bedroll.
¡°Ah, lost him, wherever he went.¡± Yholl took a sip from his new glass of wine ¨C a Riesling ¨C and let out a satisfied breath. ¡°Well, it matters little. The more dungeon cores they gather, the more power I gain.¡± One of the truths of Nihilethelea is that dungeon cores were like the ¡®magic sweat¡¯ of the world. They formed over a duration of ten years, and never more than 500 of them. Hence this Dungeon Run. Giving out a Legendary rarity Boon? Paltry in comparison to the raw, magical power that Yholl could siphon from the cores. The number of spells he could spontaneously learn and suddenly be capable of utilizing. Only his race could do so; so none of these outsiders were able to do what he could. Not even The Cosmic System was privy to the information, as prior to becoming an Ascendant he had gathered them all with his then-friend, and wiped the memory of what these dungeon cores could do from his people¡¯s collective thoughts. And¡­since it was his world now, he would never have competition for them. Never again. Over the coming centuries, he would eventually have access to every Skill that could be comprehended¡­well, every spell that could be translated to a Skill. He would get all the dungeon cores with no effort. They were normally a pain to gather, as a person had to clear out dungeons that spontaneously manifested around the dungeon cores. A natural, almost biological defense mechanism that the world itself enacted. Instead, he got these dumb Aspirants to do it for him. Oh sure, in prior years he had allowed Ascendants; but that made things too quick. No. He needed to be entertained as well. And this would provide years of entertainment, going over all of the magically recorded information with his plethora of sensors in the sky. The only reason he did not use it to track this interesting, invisible man is because it was not able to be sped up ¨C they had to be watched in real time. He drained the glass of wine and beckoned over another from his floating decanter. Bring me my dungeon cores. My unwilling servants. Bring me those beautiful pearls of power! Chapter 61 – Meanwhile, back in Khrox…
Quinn got home with Greg shadowing her, ¡°What do you think? A day of rest and then back out there?¡± Greg nodded and cracked his usual grin, ¡°This last one got us a hefty reward.¡± Yeah, 8,000 Stardust apiece, Quinn thought. Plus, I got an additional 4,000 from Broker¡¯s Fee (Rank 16). Once more, she internally groaned thinking of the Stardust she had been missing out on by hoarding the Stardust. ¡°Three days,¡± she stated as she opened the door and was followed in by her bodyguard. ¡°I need more time to de-stress.¡± ¡°You won¡¯t get any complaints from me. Gonna go out and treat my lady right.¡± Quinn smiled softly and shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t forget to use some of that Stardust to level up. We have to hit Tier 3-¡± ¡°To go back to Earth and not die immediately ¨C yeah, I know. So, it¡¯s official, then? Star Council is sending you, paying me to go with you, and will be paying this mysterious Dark Between Stars Signer?¡± She glanced back at him, ¡°I thought you were smart enough to have figure out who that is at this point.¡± Greg smiled broadly and chuckled, ¡°Jace, obviously. Going by a code name, Flicker is such a stupid street name. Yeah, he¡¯s the one. And given how loaded Sera is¡­she¡¯s got something to do with the secret faction also. But we have to keep a tight lid on it.¡± He gestured to the enormous, open-concept first floor of the apartment building as they walked to the elevator. ¡°Hell, she invited everyone Jace had at that party to live in a single building. It¡¯s obviously to keep us from others that want either his ¡®super special¡¯ power or want to stop him.¡± Quinn was actually surprised. He¡¯s not just a meathead despite the appearance. He really has a brain under that oafish grin. She nodded as the elevator doors opened. ¡°Once Jace is back ¨C and he should be Tier 3 ¨C then we¡¯ll head out. I mean, he¡¯ll probably want a day or two off. So yeah, if we take three days, it should all line up.¡± The elevator went ¡®ding¡¯ and the two went inside. To Quinn¡¯s surprise, in the three days since she had received this invite from Sera, and visited the building, each button for the elevator had a floor labeled. From top to bottom: ? Jace + Shhiv ? Priam + Quinn ? Greg + Missy ? Recreation ? Undesignated ? Undesignated ? Undesignated ? Entry Hall Did they move in together? After what, one night? Quinn knew that Jace had left the morning after the little get-together less than a week ago. No, it must be two people per floor. Who is this Priam person? Greg peered at the panel on the other side as he tapped the button for his floor. ¡°Huh. Priam? Some new person Jace met?¡± Quinn queried the System through Valerie using her Broker¡¯s Interface strapped to her wrist. Priam¡­Westerfold. Huh, rabbit-person. Neat. Let¡¯s see¡­Pulsar Priest. No information on his faction. She looked up as the doors opened, and Greg patted her on the back, ¡°See ya around, kiddo. Three days!¡± Greg walked into the space and let out a shout of joy, ¡°This place is huge! Missy? Where you at, girl!¡± The doors shut and Quinn shook her head. Valerie flew just about her head, ¡°What are you thinking?¡± the bird Wayfinder asked. ¡°I need to get into Jace¡¯s good graces.¡± Manipulate him to the Star Council¡¯s side, or to be under their control. But if anything, this Sera lady ¨C who had to be involved with the Dark Between Stars, was controlling her. Quinn could have stayed at the Star Council headquarters in well-protected accommodations; but she did not want to fail her mission. ¡°I¡¯m here, now, so I just have to keep doing what I can. Time on Earth taking down megacorps is going to give us time away from Shhiv, and I can try to get him¡­interested.¡± ¡°Oh, sounds like a solid plan. Let me know how I can help.¡± Quinn nodded, ¡°Can you go investigate the System and pull up everything you can on Shhiv and Priam? Oh, first ¨C level up.¡± ¡°Yeah, you have got a lot of Stardust. 12,050. 8,000 to get to level 50, and 1,500 per level for the 51-75 range.¡± ¡°Then let¡¯s level up to 52. That gives me 50 Stardust just left over.¡± ¡°You got it! What Skills do you want?¡± 10 levels¡­ ¡°3 into Cosmic Infusion to cap that off¡­and 7 into Broker¡¯s Instinct.¡± ¡°No combat capabilities? Are you sure?¡± She smiled and nodded, ¡°I have a stash house back on Earth with some guns. We¡¯re good.¡± <<<<<>>>>> Name: Quinn Cipher (Aspirant, Tier 3) Power [Class Level]: Star [Broker 52] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Broker''s Instinct (Rank 8), Broker''s Contract (Rank 20), Broker''s Fee (Rank 16), Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10) Stardust: 50 Equipment: Broker''s interface, Broker''s starting gear, Webwalker Implants, [ERROR] Cybereyes Mk. 3, [ERROR] Cybermind Mk. 4 Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Broker''s Instinct (Rank 1) - Gives the location of someone who will purchase/sell information or trade goods. Broker''s Instinct (Rank 2) - As Rank 1, but will attempt to locate someone who will be inclined towards favoring the Broker. Broker''s Instinct (Rank 3) - As Rank 2, but will attempt to locate someone who will be very inclined towards favoring the Broker. Broker''s Instinct (Rank 4) - Gives the approximate location of a specific object with trade value. Broker''s Instinct (Rank 5) - As Rank 4, but provides exact location. Broker''s Instinct (Rank 6) - Gives the identity of a person who may have the information sought. Broker''s Instinct (Rank 7) - As Rank 6, but the probability of the individual having the information increases. Broker''s Instinct (Rank 8) - Gives the location of a lost item of minor value. <<<<<>>>>> Quinn ignored the error messages next to her cybernetics. I know I need to replace them, damnit. Stop reminding me! To her satisfaction, the notifications faded immediately. The new Skill ranks were quite useful and would be invaluable for her mission. She took a deep breath as she went to the panel that enabled her to customize her half of the floor ¨C her new, enormous apartment. It was quite a large space, and she was ecstatic. This was not quite a mansion, but it was a hell of an upgrade from the Star Council¡¯s smaller apartments. Thanks Sera. This is pretty cool. This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. She thought about the upcoming task. Go to Earth and topple every megacorp¡­It¡¯s going to be rough. My Webwalking skills will be valuable, but I¡¯ll need a safehouse to operate out of. Plus sliverscreens to integrate with everyone, transport across the world that doesn¡¯t rely on the portals since that would flag our arrival every time¡­ She let out a sigh as she began to customize the space with the integrated devices. We¡¯re going to be on Earth for a good while. Might as well live it up while I¡¯m here.
Greg lifted Missy in his arms and gave her a kiss on the cheek. She was sweating a bit, and seemed¡­to have lost some weight? Either that, or he¡¯d gotten stronger. Or maybe both. She was wearing a fitness outfit, ¡°I was just going to head to the recreation level! Shhiv has been getting me in shape.¡± Greg took a step back and let out a pleased purr, ¡°Mmmm, my fine lady getting even finer.¡± He gave her another kiss on the cheek, and a firm slap on the rump that elicited an ¡®eep¡¯ from her. ¡°Go get that butt in even better shape!¡± ¡°You know it, sweetie. Oh, I customized the place a bit so we have an actual kitchen, and did a grocery run ¨C Sera gave me some Stardust to spend. If you¡¯re feeling up to it, want to cook dinner?¡± ¡°Mmm. A nice protein-packed meal for my powerful prima-donna.¡± Greg waved at her as she went down the elevator. Turning back into the spacious apartment, he explored every room. She really thought of everything, he thought. He¡¯d always wanted a ¡®man-cave¡¯ if they ever got rich enough back on Earth for a high-rise, more-than-a-hole-in-the-wall apartment. And boy, Sera had delivered that in spades. And Missy made it feel right at home. ¡°Darrin, can you fetch some recipes from The Cosmic System? Maybe¡­I don¡¯t know¡­reference it with whatever Missy bought?¡± ¡°Sure. Your food preservation unit has a catalogue and can evaluate the components to create recipes.¡± ¡°Awesome. How much Stardust are we sitting at?¡± ¡°You have 16,000.¡± Damn, I¡¯ve been getting it rich, he thought. He¡¯d taken a few extra pieces of gig work on their Vyrknadine wrangling expeditions over the past few days; getting some of the Brontasps and more of the flowers ¨C even capturing one of the weird-goop-zombie people for study. This business is really paying off. ¡°Remind me; Jace is going for Tier 10 because he can bring back his little sister, right?¡± ¡°That is correct,¡± the Wayfinder spider replied as it floated in front of him. ¡°Missy is eventually going to die¡­which sucks¡­and I¡¯ll be immortal. So, I think I need to hit Tier 10 also so I can bring her back once her Civilian time is up.¡± ¡°A smart play to make. Shall we proceed with your leveling up?¡± ¡°Well, I¡¯m level 36 now. That¡¯s 14,000 Stardust to hit 50, and then¡­another 1,500 for level 51?¡± ¡°Correct again.¡± Maths was always my strongest subject. 15,500, leaving me with 500. ¡°Right. Let¡¯s get to 51 and hit Tier 3.¡± ¡°15 Skill Rank increases. You currently have every Skill you have selected maxed out, save for Planetary Growth.¡± ¡°I just took that because we were getting those plants. Kind of a waste in hindsight.¡± He put his hand to his chin and scratched his bushy beard. ¡°Hmm¡­I don¡¯t have anything really offensive ¨C just damage reflect. Can we do something with that?¡± ¡°How about the go-to ranged power, Rock Blast?¡± ¡°Oh, sweet! Can I, I don¡¯t know, chuck the boulders like a shot-put?¡± ¡°Sure.¡± ¡°Is this one of those Skills I can endlessly dump Ranks into?¡± ¡°Yup!¡± Greg grinned, ¡°Then let¡¯s do everything into that.¡± <<<<<>>>>> Name: Greg Bhastal (Aspirant, Tier 3) Power [Class Level]: Planet [Protector 51] Skills: Skill Name (Rank) [Evolutions]: Universal Translation, Environmental Adaptation, Protector''s Vow (Rank 3), Planetary Defenses (Rank 3), Planetary Retribution (Rank 3), Cosmic Infusion (Rank 10), Protector''s Panacea (Rank 8), Planetary Palisade (Rank 10), Planetary Growth (Rank 1), Rock Blast (Rank 15) Stardust: 500 Equipment: Protector''s starting gear, Pheracorp deflection matrix, Stunstick Boons: None <<<<<>>>>> Rock Blast (Rank 1) ¨C The user launches a stone projectile that crushes a target. ¡­ Rock Blast (Rank 15) ¨C As Rank 14, but deals increased damage. <<<<<>>>>> ¡°Damage increases every Rank. Nothing else happens though,¡± Darrin stated. ¡°It is a straightforward Skill, hence its popularity.¡± ¡°Give me an equivalent caliber for the damage it¡¯ll do,¡± Greg replied. ¡°The equivalent would be 2,600 feet per second, so a .50 caliber bullet fired from an anti-materiel rifle.¡± ¡°Type of round?¡± ¡°Armor-piercing made from depleted uranium. With a Skill Evolution, you could acquire a shrapnel effect if you got lucky. Or a shotgun-style area blast. I would recommend spending some of your remaining Stardust on a few cheap ones to give yourself some variety.¡± Good idea. But first¡­I have to cook for my lady. ¡°I need better equipment from one of my safehouses,¡± Greg muttered as he entered the kitchen and began checking cabinets until he found the various cooking implements. Turning the stove on to let the pans and pots warm up, he began making a delicious meal for his lovely lady. Only a few days of these homecooked meals ¨C then it''s back to the grind.
Priam woke up and yawned, stretching and cracking his neck and arms before twisting to get his back as well. ¡°Good morning,¡± he muttered as he looked around. He was inside a small tent, and Jace was bundled inside a sleeping bag ¨C seemingly dead to the outside world; the only hint of him being alive the slight rise and fall of his shoulders. Bloopa popped into existence next to him. Ah. You exhausted yourself. Jace conquered the last Volcano tile, and moved you to the nearby mountain tile to find shelter. The Ascendant Archmage was attempting to track you both. ¡°That¡¯s not good,¡± Priam muttered as he wiped the sleep from his eyes. I also saw Ollie in the Starlit Sea. He transferred 250 Stardust from the enemies in the Complex. ¡°That¡¯s thoughtful.¡± Priam reached into his pack and pulled out one of the survival meals, digging into the delicious brown paste. Taking his canteen out, he poked his head outside of the tent. The cave he saw in slight yellow and gold hues was empty; and he could not see beyond a bend. ¡°Good hiding place,¡± he muttered as he pulled his head back inside and quaffed down some water. This tent has an incredible property from an Augmentation. Surely Xera¡¯s doing. Effectively, 1 hour of sleep in here is the equivalent to a full-night¡¯s rest. ¡°That¡¯s nifty. Should I wake him up?¡± Give him a few more minutes. ¡°In that case, bathroom time.¡± Priam got out of the tent and walked out of the cave, cautiously peering around the corner. No one out here. It looked to be late morning, judging from the odd, silvery-gold sky. Day 5 of this Dungeon Run. Finding a nice, secluded place, he took care of business. But as he was wrapping up and readjusting his gear, he froze as voices reached him. ¡°Look! A cave!¡± ¡°Finally! A place we can hole up and get some shuteye.¡± Two other voices joined in with the affirmation, and Priam made sure to tuck his ears into the brim of his hat as he crept forward. He peeked around the corner and saw four individuals going into the mouth of the cave and setting up camp. Thankfully, they didn¡¯t go deeper. How do I wake Jace up and warn him? But these people might not be hostile, also. Just in case, Pulsar Ward (Rank 20). The honeycomb style barrier popped into place around him. ¡°Bloopa,¡± he whispered, ¡°Can you go tell Ollie in the Starlit Sea what¡¯s going on?¡± Yes. I¡¯ll be back in a moment. She went pop, and Priam froze as the noise drew the attention of all four individuals. The one with red, all-encompassing full plate, stood up and drew a weapon, ¡°Who goes there!¡± ¡°Just a priest!¡± Priam replied. Dad did say ¡®honesty is the best policy.¡¯ ¡°I don¡¯t mean harm! I just was camping deeper in that cave and have to step out for a moment. May I come in and get my things?¡± He made sure to shout, hoping that Jace would hear. Another person, a woman dressed in the same style of full-plate, but dark green colored, also drew a weapon, ¡°Or, we kill you, take your stuff in the cave, and enjoy our lives.¡± ¡°Oh, that¡¯s not nice!¡± Priam shouted. Come on Jace! Hear the commotion! The other two figures stood up ¨C wearing the exact same type of armor ¨C but blue and white colored respectively ¨C and all four were now wielding large, two-handed blades. They had the same Cosmic Power symbol. Planet. So really versatile. Well, my barriers are the best! The four rushed towards Priam, and he let out a yell before running off down the mountainous scrabble. Chapter 62 – Run, rabbit! I got this!
Priam was sprinting at full speed, hearing the steady ¡®clank¡¯ of the booted, armored people following him. Bloopa reappeared with a pop. I notified Ollie ¨C why are you running? Priam hiked his thumb over his shoulder as he took a turn and scrambled up a rock face ¨C fueling his ascent with large, bunny-hops that launched himself up eight feet at a time. ¡°Aspirants! Bunch of planets!¡± He felt a crack against his barrier and glanced down and behind ¨C one of the four, the one wearing the white armor ¨C had launched a chunk of rock at him. ¡°Ha! My barriers are way stronger than your stupid rocks!¡± Priam kept on climbing up to a higher ledge and was panting as he put his hands on his knees, recovering his breath. The rest of the armored figures arrived at the bottom of the cliff below, and the green one raised their sword. ¡°Planetary Manipulation!¡± The ground beneath the four began to rise ¨C bringing them right to Priam¡¯s level. ¡°Ah!¡± he let out a shout of panic and looked around for some type of safe route down. There were none. I can jump and let the barrier take the blow! He ran to his right ¨C back towards the cave where Jace had made camp ¨C and jumped down the fifty feet. He landed on his paws, and felt a surge of dull pain in them as the barrier shattered. Just enough to keep me from breaking my feet. He sprinted and pulled up another one of the Pulsar Wards at (Rank 20). ¡°Jace! Jace wake up! Hurr-¡± Something grabbed him from behind an outcropping of rock, and he froze. Nothing should have been able to get inside my barri-oh. Jace was a designated ally, so he could reach inside. ¡°You invisible?¡± ¡°Now you are too. Not just invisible, but undetectable and untrackable.¡± Priam looked up and saw Jace¡¯s hood had been pulled up and the mask that accompanied it as facial protection had also been set in place. ¡°How many, what powers, go.¡± ¡°Right! Four people in different colored armor ¨C all the same type ¨C with swords! All Planet Cosmic Power.¡± Jace nodded and pushed ¨C firmly ¨C shoving Priam behind him. ¡°I¡¯ll handle them.¡± His weapon was surging with the dark purple and crimson light, and his body was covered with the flowing, purple barrier. ¡°Stay here.¡± Priam wanted to help, but he was still shaken up from the sudden flight and subsequent chase. ¡°O-okay. I¡¯ll¡­I¡¯ll stay here.¡± Jace vanished around the corner, and Priam could make out the clanging of the armored boots of his pursuers. Oh boy. Okay. I needed to put a Pulsar Ward on him. Or a conditional heal, or-
Jace wheeled around the corner and saw the four figures that were chasing Priam. He was pissed off. He had woken up right after the clatter of armor running off had reached his ears deep in the cave. Not seeing Priam, he had instantly used Dark Matter Cloak (Rank 3), Dark Matter Shield (Rank 3), and Dark Matter Blade (Rank 5) [Rending]. Leaving the cave, he saw a few supply packs, a bundle of firewood that someone was lugging along, and could hear the clattering armor off down one of the narrow, mountainous passages. Finding their location was easy enough ¨C he just grappled up to a higher vantage point and spotted Priam. Getting to the Pulsar Priest was easy. This? These four? He had no clue what to expect. But they dared to try and hurt Verve? Not Verve. He¡¯s dead. Stop thinking of him like that! Priam. They tried to hurt Priam. And Jace felt like showing no mercy to them. He sprinted forward and impaled the first one ¨C the red one ¨C through the torso ¨C finding a weak spot between the breastplate and the neck. He wrenched the blade sideways and almost decapitated the person as they collapsed, a pale, green blood fountaining up before they collapsed. ¡°Someone is here! Quick, area of effect!¡± ¡°Gregor, no!¡± ¡°He¡¯s dead, listen to him. Astral Stra-¡± Jace had snuck behind the green armored one and slid his blade just under the arm where he spotted another seam in the armor, spearing them through the heart and dropping them dead. ¡°Cataclysm Vortex!¡± the white armored one shouted. ¡°Typhoon Slash!¡± the blue one followed up almost at the same time. Jace would have been blown away if not for his prosthetic legs. The whipping, swirling, razor-sharp wind swirled around the duo ¨C but Jace was inside the eye of the storm, suffering no injury or energy drain due to the shield. As for the slash of water that burst out from the blue one¡¯s blade? Well, he just stayed behind them and mirrored their movement. Grabbing the arm while it still spouted the cutting beam of water, he twisted it and chopped through their white-armored ally with the beam of water. ¡°Kiva! No!¡± The one Jace was holding was panicking, and he snapped their arm as they shouted in pain. Their armor buckled and burst from the force he exerted, and a shaft of bone protruded through the skin and plate mail. He forced the person to their knees from the pressure and twisting of the broken appendage. He let his Dark Matter Cloak drop, letting the person see his piercing, purple, draconic-magic eyes. ¡°Why did you try to kill V- Priam?¡± The person¡¯s eyes were barely visible through the slits, and Jace could see the fear and panic. A silvery-white Wayfinder was nestled inside the armor as well. ¡°We-he said he camped in the cave! He just wanted to get to his camp! Please spare me!¡± ¡°No.¡± Jace shoved his blade through the top of the collar, down into the chest, and instinctively found the heart. No one hurts Priam. Despite the short duration, the trusting, slightly - well, very na?ve - bunny boy had grown on him. Plus, they were Signers for the same faction ¨C he was Jace¡¯s responsibility. As he let the body drop, he gestured to Ollie, ¡°Dust them.¡±
Oh, 100 Stardust. How thoughtful. Bloopa signaled to Priam. ¡°Thanks!¡± Priam said as he saw Jace coming around the corner, slightly tired but otherwise hale. ¡°Let¡¯s go pack up.¡± Jace led the way back to the cave, snagging a hefty-looking dungeon core from the ground in the cave entrance. ¡°That takes us from 54 to 63.¡± He put it into his backpack and Priam followed Jace into the cave¡¯s depths. The Dark Matter Aspirant packed up the tent before looking back to the priest. ¡°How you feeling about traveling more?¡±Stolen novel; please report. ¡°Great! Thanks for saving my butt back there.¡± Jace chuckled, ¡°Sure. Alright. Let¡¯s go on foot for a bit. I need to conserve energy.¡± The glow faded from both, and Priam walked alongside and just a little behind the human. Passing the spot where Jace had slain the other Aspirants, Priam spit on the ground. ¡°That¡¯s what you get for not being nice!¡±
My responsibility? No, he¡¯s not. He¡¯s just part of the same faction. Jace walked with Priam just a step behind as they descended the mountains. He had wanted to walk to save energy ¨C especially with that fight earlier which he was not anticipating. What am I thinking? I¡­he¡¯s young. And trusting. Damnit. Glancing back at Priam, the rabbit-man Priest gave him a smile and nod, ¡°What you thinking about?¡± ¡°You,¡± Jace replied honestly. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to feel about you.¡± Priam cocked his head sideways, ¡°How so?¡± Jace sighed, ¡°I¡­almost feel ¨C no, I do feel responsible for keeping you safe. I mean, I kept you alive because you reminded me of a friend I let down. Hell, I even mixed up his name with yours.¡± He shook his head, ¡°The whole point of this is to become Tier 10 and bring back my sister. I don¡¯t know why I chose to bring you along. And now? You¡¯re part of my faction.¡± ¡°Well¡­you chose me to come along because, despite all the non-meaty parts, you have a heart.¡± Priam grinned at the little rhyme. ¡°I¡¯m helpful, and I can definitely help out The Cosmic System. And by doing that, we both get Stardust. We both level up. Closer to your goal.¡± His ears twitched slightly, ¡°You said bring back your sister¡­is she?¡± ¡°Dead. 2 years, 5 months, and 13 days ago,¡± Jace rattled off having the date burned into his memory. ¡°I have to hit Tier 10 before 10 years has gone by. If I don¡¯t¡­I can¡¯t bring her back.¡± ¡°Oooh! I need to get to Tier 10 also, then. And fast! Dad only died 5 years ago! I can bring him back!¡± Jace smiled at the revelation of a shared goal, ¡°It would go faster if we were both solo.¡± ¡°But not as safe!¡± ¡°I¡­no offense, but I don¡¯t need your help.¡± Priam deflated slightly at this, and Jace immediately felt bad. Ollie nudged him and whispered in his ear, ¡°Remember, his barriers kept you safe from the shockwaves of those explosions.¡± ¡°But!¡± Jace said, as if he had just remembered that himself. ¡°You did help me with those explosive things. So¡­thank you. I¡¯m sorry. I just ¨C since Chroma died, I¡¯ve been a solo act. The¡­idea of teaming up¡­well-¡± ¡°That was her name?¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Yeah. You know, you remind me of her a little bit.¡± ¡°How so?¡± ¡°The¡­enthusiasm¡­and being willing to see good in people. Hell, when we first met, I was kicking your group¡¯s collective ass. Yet you still saw that I didn¡¯t really want to kill the lot of you, and only did it when there was no other choice.¡± Priam¡¯s lips drew thin and he nodded, ¡°I¡¯m sorry on their behalf. Hopefully, their souls find peace and do not end up in the eternal deserts. May they find the oasis of plenty.¡± Jace chuckled, ¡°That sort of like heaven and hell?¡± Priam looked at his Wayfinder, who shifted through a plethora of shapes. ¡°Oh. Yeah, sort of like an afterlife.¡± He grinned, ¡°I¡¯m sure they are in the oasis. They did help me, after all.¡± ¡°They used you, also.¡± ¡°But I used them to stay alive, also. We used each other. It was¡­symbiotic?¡± Jace nodded, ¡°Well, I am not going to use you for my own ends. And¡­just, look, if I come off as harsh, I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ve been on my own for a few years. Plus, a whole month with just Ollie ¨C and his gruff personality¡­it kind of rubbed off on me.¡± ¡°Hey!¡± Ollie shouted. ¡°I am not grumpy.¡± ¡°You were when we met,¡± Priam replied. ¡°You were trying to kill my Aspirant!¡± Ollie replied with a cute, non-threatening growl due to his size. ¡°I wasn¡¯t, Giordo and Rory were.¡± Jace chuckled and scratched Ollie¡¯s head, ¡°Hey, you started out pretty grumpy and pissed off. It was only after I survived that Vyrknadine attack that you really saw my value.¡± Ollie frowned, ¡°Well¡­yes. That is true.¡± Priam smiled, ¡°It¡¯s okay. You let me call you Ollie instead of Oliver ¨C so I already know we¡¯re best friends.¡± ¡°Aww, Ollie? Kicking me to the curb already?¡± Jace taunted. Ollie playfully slapped him on the head, ¡°Nope! You¡¯re my Aspirant. Priam¡­he is a friend. But not my best friend.¡± ¡°How can you touch your Wayfinder?¡± Priam asked. Ollie smirked, ¡°Why? Jealous you cannot touch my luxurious fur?¡± Priam shook his head, ¡°No. Just curious.¡± ¡°I am fairly certain that Jace¡¯s Cosmic Infusion being at (Rank 10) is the cause. His body is ingrained into The Cosmic System to an extent.¡± ¡°Oh! Interesting,¡± Priam replied. Jace let out a slight sigh. Not out of frustration, but just because he knew what was coming. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s pick up the pace a bit. Less talking, more walking.¡± The duo made good progress overland. After they cleared the mountains, they found themselves on the edge of a windswept, sand-strewn desert. Dunes that crested several stories in height were scattered all around. ¡°You will not be able to move as fast,¡± Ollie had told Jace. ¡°Since the claws help propel you forward.¡± Priam seemed ecstatic. ¡°It¡¯s just like how dad described Fernaid! A gorgeous, huge desert with glimmering, golden sand.¡± He was practically buzzing with excitement. ¡°It feels so good between my toes!¡± That¡¯s when Jace finally noticed ¨C the bunny-boy wasn¡¯t wearing any type of footwear. He had slightly oversized rabbit feet. ¡°Are¡­are you going to be okay?¡± ¡°Oh yeah, these floppy things were built for sand.¡± Jace nodded and looked at the map. Right, so, I used an information Boon to find the glitch location on this tile. Way off in the corner? Damn. At least there¡¯s a few Complexes along the way. ¡°Ready?¡± he asked Priam. ¡°Oh yeah! Let me lead the way! But first, barrier time!¡± he closed his eyes for a moment, and the yellowish barriers popped around the two of them. He seemed to not have burned any energy ¨C Jace assumed from his excitement at his species¡¯ home terrain. ¡°Let¡¯s go! Into the desert!¡± ?