I apologize for any formatting issues. I've been trying for hours to fix it to no avail. From now on, no more writing on mobile.
Jim Gordon looked on into the hospital room, sighing.
Pamela Isley... Experimented on by a madman, turning her into whatever she was now. Jim had been called to oversee the raid of Jason Woodrue's facility. It was hidden in a seemingly abandoned warehouse. It took a lot of resources to track it down, and admittedly there were a few laws that were skirted. But he couldn't do anything. It was the commissioner's decision.
Poor girl. Her life was going to be tough from this point on. God knows what she went through down there. He had seen some of it. Corpses and corpses littered throughout the facility. All in various states of decomposition. Some had been there weeks, other months. Sickening... that was a tame way to describe it.
Then there was the conclusion of the raid. When they arrived, Pamela seemed to be taking justice into her own hands. Jim understood her anger. Anyone could. But the case wasn't black and white as it seemed. Depending on what judge or lawyer she got? She could face time in prison.
Jim's hands shook. He needed a smoke.
"Bullock, you mind watching her for five? I need some air."
The detective nodded, "Yeah, no problem Jim. Take as long as you need."
Gordon patted his shoulder in thanks, turning to the hospital corridor. He walked down it, hearing the shouting and screaming of the patients.
Gordon had noted the state of the hospital when he came in. He didn't think it would be this bad. Mould covered the ceiling of the hospital, and it smelt like death, something the fancy Metropolis hospitals didn't have a problem with.
It had seen better days, Gordon admitted to himself. The whole of Gotham had. For the last few decades, the city had been declining into squalor. The crime rate rose, the amount of homeless increased and funding for just about every public service has disappeared.
The reason? It could be traced back to the Wayne family's death, around twenty years ago. A billionaire husband and wife gunned down in the streets doesn't promote a strong message. And considering the fact they made generous donations to the GCPD and other public services, it wasn't a surprise to anyone when the money stopped funnelling in. Bruce Wayne wasn't much help either. He disappeared from Gotham for years, only coming back about two years ago.
Gordon had to admit that Bruce was trying to help. But so many years without the Wayne's funding had led Gotham to consume itself, and not much was left. It was like spraying a water gun into a raging forest fire.
Gordon placed a hand on the side of his head. He could feel a headache coming. All this happening in Gotham, it was tearing him up inside. Something needed to change, and fast, or there won't be much left of Gotham come a few years.
He reached the exit to the hospital car lot, pushing the door open, breathing in the smell of fresh air with a satisfied sigh. He pulled a cigarette out, lighting it up. Lifting it to his mouth, he inhaled and the familiar viscid liquid flowed into his mouth, and a few seconds later, he felt his body relax, falling into a calmed state.
Gordon spent a few moments like that, basking in the high provided by the cigarette until he was interrupted by the vibration of his phone. He saw the caller, cursing his luck, quickly throwing his cigarette to the ground, crushing it with his boot, before answering.
"Commissioner Grogan. What do I owe the pleasure?"
A gruff voice spoke on the other end, "Lieutenant. How is the girl? Has she made any statements yet?"
"She's still passed out from the wound. We're waiting for her to wake up, and we'll go from there."
"I want you questioning her as soon as she's awake Lieutenant. We need information."
"I understand Sir. I'll be right on it."
"Another thing. Woodrue's body has vanished. I don't know how it happened or who's behind it. One minute it was there. The next it wasn't. It's got the transport boys scratching their heads. I've got people looking into it but I'm not sure we'll find anything."
Jim could feel the shaking returning to his, the stress seeping back into his muscles. Nothing could ever be simple in Gotham.
"One last thing. We have orders from the top, regarding one of the patients we recovered. Bane is to be sent to Arkham Asylum, to receive top-level treatment for his condition."
Gordon paused. Something wasn't right. By all accounts, they shouldn't have custody of Bane. He should have been transferred back to Pena Duro on the next flight home.
"That is all Gordon. Good luck with the investigation."
The Commissioner hung up, not letting Gordon say another word. Gordon shook his head. Grogan was shaping up to be just as bad as Loeb. Was there ever going to be a Commissioner who was actually competent at their job?
Jim pocketed his phone, giving the crushed cigarette a longing glance, before entering back into the hospital. He was dreading telling Pamela about her charges if or when she ever woke up. She'd been through enough.
Gordon reached Pamela's room, nodding to Bullock, "She alright?"
"Yeah. Still asleep."
Jim observed her sleeping form. It was a wonder she was still alive. One of the SWAT opened fire on her after witnessing her snapping Jason's neck. She took a few to the chest, leaving her in this state now. The doctors weren't confident about her recovery, stating several major organs were punctured.
The SWAT member had gone unpunished. The commissioner had stated he had valid reasoning and acted in self-defence. Jim probably would have agreed with this, if it wasn't for her surrendering after the fact. She made no attempt toward the officers, even complying with their demands.
"Have they decided what they're going to do with her?"
Gordon looked towards Harvey, noticing the tired look in his eyes.
"They want her interrogated before any charge is decided. But my guess? They're shipping her off to Arkham. Along with Bane."
"That doesn't make sense. She killed Jason Woodrue in self-defense. Hell, you saw all the corpses, Jim. We all know it was deserved."
Jim held up his hand, "I know. But the law is the law. She'll be given a fair trial. All I'm saying is, they're starting to send a lot of people to Arkham."
Jim looked at the sleeping girl, pity evident in his eyes.
She was going to have a hard life, from this moment on.
It was midnight when I awoke. The subtle light of the moon peered into my hospital room. A dull ache was present in my stomach, though it wasn't too painful. I looked around the room, the only noise was the slow beating of the heart monitor.
That's right...
I had been shot. I remember the flash of a muzzle and then darkness. I must have passed out from shock.
I was wearing some sort of hospital gown. It seemed to cover more skin than usual, however. My left hand was cuffed to the metal bar of the hospital bed, in an attempt to stop me from leaving should I awake. I doubt it'll stop me.
Across from me sat a detective, snoring peacefully. If the police were here, it wasn't good news. No doubt I'm to be taken into custody as soon as I awake, for the murder of Jason Woodrue.
Quest completed!
Mad Scientist - Origin Quest
Bonus: Help Bane Escape - Failed
Bonus: Kill Jason Woodrue-Successful
Rewards: Dungeon access, Gacha Token x2, 1000XP, Affection System access
I took in a deep breath, a small smile present on my face. I was finally free now. I would never have my freedom taken away again. And Jason was gone for good.
I ripped the handcuffs from my hand easily, stretching my hand as I left the bed. Now, time to leave. I have some levelling to do, after all those months I missed rotting in my cell.
Leaving through the front door of the hospital would only attract attention, and I don't want the police looking for me just yet. It'd be safer to leave through the window. I'm only on the second floor and with my newfound durability, I shouldn't have to worry about hurting myself severely.
I slowly removed the sheets, tiptoeing to the window. I look out, seeing the quiet streets of Gotham. I release a blissful sigh, opening the window and dangling my feet out. To lessen the impact of a fall, you have to roll, it'll distribute the force throughout your whole body instead of just your feet. At least, that's what I watched on YouTube.
I close my eyes and jump. The feeling of drifting through the air for a few seconds was quite exhilarating, akin to riding a rollercoaster.
I landed in some luscious grass, entirely unharmed. Whew.
I didn't have an immediate plan. I know Gotham wasn't the greatest place to be wandering at night though.
System, can I access dungeons now?
[Affirmative. Dungeons can be accessed anytime, as long as you aren't in combat.]
Good. But before that, I need to look over all my skills and perks. I need to know what I'm working with. Display character sheet.
Pamela Isley - 'Poison Ivy' - Lvl.3
HP:110
MP:100
SP: 130
Stats:
STR:28
INT:23
DEX:30
VIG: 18
Traits:
[Lie Detector]
Lying. The most commonly abused sin, humanity has used lies to divide and conquer each other for thousands of years.
You have the ability to tell when someone is lying, or unfaithful to the words they're saying.
[Crazy Magnet]
Characters who are considered 'evil' feel a certain pull or attraction to you.
[Mind Of Immunity]
Your mind has gained an impenetrable barrier which no being can penetrate. Mind control, mind-reading and any other mind-altering effects that would cause you serious physical or mental harm are harmless against the fortress that is your mind.
[Asexual]
Your body has evolved past the need for others. You lack sexual attraction to others and have no interest in pursuing sexual activities.
[Genius Intellect]
Pamela Isley was a brilliant student of advanced botanical biochemistry. With this perk, Pamela's intelligence has reached a whole new level. Your intelligence rivals the world's greatest minds.
[Ageusia]
You are afflicted by ageusia, rendering you unable to taste any food or drinks you consume.
Perks:
[Ninja]
You are quiet, and your footsteps even more so. You can come and go as you please, and no one would be any wiser.
[Silver Tounge]
You have mastered the art of wordplay. Those with Silver Tounges are able to convince generals to wage wars, assassins to change sides. You have earned the title of Silver Tounged Devil.
[Ethereal Beauty]
You are unnaturally beautiful. Your voice weakens the will of men and women alike. Only few rival your beauty. This perk randomly grants affection when initially meeting someone.
[Plant Caretaker]
You have become part plant and so has your mind. You value the lives of plants above that of humans.
Powers:
[Enhanced reflexes]
Time seems to slow when something is barreling towards you, allowing you plenty of time to think and strategise your next move.]
[True Ominlingualism]
The ability to speak and understand any and all languages. Only few have the honour of receiving this title and you are one of them. None can rival your knowledge of tounges.
Skills:
[Toxic Immunity - Passive - Lvl.Max]
Your toxic blood shields you against any toxins or gases used against you. You cannot be affected by special venoms such as Scarecrow's fear toxin or Joker's laughing gas.
[Observe - Active - Lvl.Max]
See the target's level and current thoughts about you.
[Increased Durability - Passive - Lvl.Max]
Your durability is slightly stronger than that of a human. You can take more damage than usual.
[Kiss Of Death - Passive - Tier I] [Legendary Skill]
You can kill regular humans with just a kiss.
[Listener of Plants - Active - Lvl. Max]
Activating this ability will give you the ability to listen and talk to plants.
[Pheromone Influence - Active - Lvl.1]
A weaker version of the love pheromone, this can slightly influence someone's decisions according to your will. This will only work on those with weak minds or those who are already debating to listen to you.
[Root Strike - Active - Lvl.2]
A small root bursts from the ground, impaling your target. 20SP per use.
Hmmm. Overall not a bad start. Most of my skills and perks are all non-combatant though. [Root Strike] and [Kiss Of Death] seem to be my only true offensive abilities.
Also, why did [Enhanced Reflexes] not work when the bullet was fired at me? Was it simply too fast for the skill, or do I have to be facing the direction the object is coming from for it to activate? Something I needed to test out.
[Note - The skill system has still not been properly introduced. Inducting tutorial now...]
[The basic premise for skills has already been explained. It is separated into four sections: Novice, Adept, Expert and Master. Reaching the next section with the skill will increase its usefulness and decrease its cost. To level a skill, gain XP while using it. For example, any enemy killed using Root Strike will add XP to your main level and that specific skill.]
[Here are the skill groups:
Novice - Lvl. 1 - 10
Adept - Lvl. 10 - 20
Expert - Lvl. 20 - 40
Master - Lvl. 40 - 50
[Legendary Skills are slightly different, however. A unique quest is generated for the skill to level it up. Completing various stages of the quest will also increase its usefulness. Legendary skills work with tiers instead of level groups. You currently have one Legendary Skill. Generating quest.]
[Calculating... Legendary quest for Kiss Of Death skill generating...]
The Poison Touch - Legendary Quest
You are Poison Ivy, Master Of Plants and Toxins. Complete the objective to upgrade Legendary Skill [Kiss Of Death].
Difficulty: Hard
Objective: Kill 100 beings with [Kiss Of Death] [1/100]
Bonus:?
Penalty: None
[Legendary skills can only be gained through legendary quests or evolving a unique skill into one. Some characters will have natural legendary skills.]
That was a big info dump. I massaged my forehead, taking it all in. But it was relatively easy to understand. I just needed to remember it all.
I'm ready for the dungeon now, System. I'm familiar enough with my capabilities at this point.
[The first dungeon is a Starter Dungeon. Starter dungeons are considerably easier than the regular dungeon.]
I think that's a good place to start. I definitely wasn't ready to encounter any super-powered beings in my current state. I needed to grow stronger.
Transfer me to the starter dungeon, System.
[Affirmative...]
As soon as I opened my eyes, I knew where I was. The room was dark, only being lit by a few torches scattered around the walls. There was a faint smell of death that hung in the air, blocking the back of my throat.
The Creator had placed me in some sort of Skyrim dungeon. I recognized the architecture almost immediately. I had poured hundreds of hours into the game after all.
And thanks to that I roughly knew what to expect. Draugr, skeletons. At worst a Dragon Priest at the end of the dungeon.
[Quest started!]
[Quest - Starter Dungeon - Nord Ruins]
Explore the crumbling ruins and defeat the Draugr Overlord of the old Dragon Cult.
Rewards: 2000XP, [Blades Katana, [Blades Armor] Set
I began to mentally prepare myself. I wish The Creator had included some sort of Gamer's Mind to help in these situations.
With a final relaxed sigh, I set off. I had dealt with much worse in the past few months than some weak skeletons and draugr.
I admired the architecture of the walls as I walked past. Though the place was truly a labyrinth. Twists and turns that led to empty rooms and dead ends.
Eventually, I met my first enemy. Its hair was stringy and its flesh was in the process of decomposing, even falling off as it strode toward me. It let out a screech as it neared, its foul breath reaching the inside of my nostrils.
A draugr. The common enemy of Skyrim. If I remembered correctly, these guys worshipped dragons and were cursed to live forever in this maze. That's what I heard in the game, at least.
It shambled towards me, with speed I didn't expect, groaning as it neared. It swung its sword towards my head, aiming for a quick decapitation.
Time slowed around me as the sword grew nearer. It was so... slow. Painfully slow. I watched as its face was fixed in an expression of fury, a burning hatred for all those that disturbed its rest.
I sidestepped, wrenching the sword from its decaying fist.
[Ancient Nord Sword]
An Ancient Nord sword, wielded by those who worshipped the Dragons and their priests.
Skill: Weightless
[Weightless - The weapon holds no weight, allowing you to swing without weight holding you back.]
Requirements:
STR: 25
DEX: 18
Not bad for a first weapon.
I clumsily swing the sword, lodging it into the neck of the creature. It grunted as the sword sliced its flesh, a thud coming from its spine.
Shit. I'd never swung a sword before. The sword is stuck in the creature's neck, black blood spraying all over the room and floor. Its head was at an unnatural angle, though its eyes were still fixated on me.
It lunged, too fast even for me, its long and filthy fingernails scraping against my unblemished skin.
-30HP
I screamed, lashing out and sending a fist crashing into its skull, brain matter covering my entire hand.
[Draugur slain. 50XP gained.]
The black blood slowly dripped onto the floor, staining my white hospital gown.
That stung a little. That was a lie. It hurt a lot. Its fingernails were so long they could be classed as daggers. And who knows what disease and bacteria the nails carried.
I ripped a clean part of the gown off, wrapping it around the wound. My toxic blood should stave off anything negative it was carrying, so I won't have to worry about an infection. It still pulsed with pain, but it was a lesson.
I treated the situation like a game, and not like reality. Although this world was once fiction to me, it's now my reality. And I need to treat it as such. Just because an enemy was weak in my old world, that didn't mean that was the case here.
I picked myself up, reinvigorated. Range was the best option when dealing with this type of undead but I had to be careful not to drain my SP and leave myself surrounded. If I encounter groups of them, using [Root Strike] to kill multiple of them in one go could be a viable option.
I grabbed the handle of the sword, yanking it from the monster's neck, watching as its body slowly disappeared.
I need to get better with the sword too. I can't just rely on my powers all the time. When the time comes for me to face powerful, sentient enemies, I needed to be more versatile. Unpredictable. I needed to master every form of combat I could get my hands on.
I gave the sword a few practice swings, nodding in satisfaction. Time to move onwards.I had moved through the dungeon at a brisk pace but nothing of note had happened. A few stray draugr appeared which I quickly dispatched of, but other than that it was quiet.
Until I reached what I thought was the last room. In the middle of it sat a coffin. Behind it sat a wall, carvings of what I knew to be the dragon language. A wall of power.
So this would be the resting place of the Overlord. They were capable of using the Thuum, so this would be no easy fight. I need every advantage I could get.
System, how many stat points do I have?
[You are currently Lvl.4. You have 3 stat points.]
Allocate them all into DEX. I need to be quick if I want to avoid its strikes. What else could I use to gain an advantage?
[You currently have two unused Gacha tokens, host. Use now?]
Gacha tokens?
[Reminder on the topic of : Gacha Tokens. Gacha tokens will randomly pull an item from all known universes and deposit it into your inventory. It could be something useful, or something useless.]
I see no harm in doing it then. Roll, System.
[Rolling...]
[An Assassin's Truly Awful Guide To Poisons]
A book, written by an unnamed assassin, detailing how to make deadly poisons not commonly known.
[Eleonora's Poleblade]
Chosen weapon of Eleonora, Violet Bloody Finger.
Her legacy is stained by accursed blood. Those that wield this are said to inherit her blood-lust.
Skill: Bleed
[Bleed - Bleed causes those to be struck by the blade to lose health overtime. Consecutive hits with the blade causes the bleed damage to increase.]
Requirements:
STR : 32
DEX: 40
[Note - Stat requirements not met. Weapon is currently unavailable to be wielded.]
As I expected. Nothing that could immediately help me. But the pole blade seemed like a viable weapon, especially with the [Bleed] effect. My stats aren't high enough to wield it yet, unfortunately.
System, is it possible to return to Gotham?
[That is a possibility. However, stepping forward into that room will lock your ability to escape. You will not be allowed to leave until you have defeated all enemies or you die yourself.]
I don't know if I'm just being paranoid or not, but I have a feeling going into that room now will only lead to my death. My gut feeling was telling me that I wasn't ready.
But it was only a starter dungeon, wasn't it? Surely this end boss couldn't be that hard?
I mentally reminded myself of my earlier encounter. The overlords were strong enough foes in Skyrim, and so here that danger is likely ten times worse. Going in unprepared will get me killed, no doubt about it.
I've decided. I'll return to Gotham for now and prepare to the best of my ability. I am feeling slightly sluggish without the sun too. I needed a recharge. I'll come back tomorrow and kill a few mobs to increase my level a little. Charging into the boss fight now just wasn't worth it.
I feel the same tingly sensation that appeared when I first came here, and then I'm back where I left, the sun just beginning to drop. The wind gently pushes me, and I can smell a pleasant earthly smell. Petrichor. The smell before it rains.
I begin walking, not in any specific direction, but that was the beauty of it. I could go anywhere I want now. Unsurprisingly, I can't seem to find anyone walking around. Gotham is dangerous enough during the day, never mind the night.
A feel a cold sensation drop onto my head. It's raining. The only thing I have on me right now is this hospital gown and most of it is dirtied by the black blood of the draugur. I should probably find some shelter before anyone notices me.
I wander for a few minutes, mentally making note of where certain buildings are. I can see Wayne Tower looming over the city in the distance. I wonder if Batman is wandering the streets tonight?
I'll need to be wary of him and the police. The police will be searching for me during the day. Not only had I murdered Jason, but I also had run from the law. That was another charge to my sentencing if I was caught.
I'm broken from my thoughts by footsteps behind me. Is someone following me? Or merely walking on the same sidewalk as me?
I turn my head slightly, enough to see him in my vision and I quickly cast [Observe].
Head Street Thug Lvl.10 -
HP:200
MP:0
SP:15
STR:32
INT:18
DEX:12
VIG: 26
Thoughts about you - He has been following you for a while now. He thinks you're an easy target.
Ah. I'm quite surprised honestly. From the way Gotham was described in comics, wandering about at night was alike to a warzone. I was expecting to encounter someone with ill intentions sooner, in all honesty. Though I pity this man if he tries anything.
His footsteps quicken, trying to catch up with me. I can hear his heavy breathing as he grows closer. But I'm prepared. He goes to put a hand on my shoulder, which I grab easily. I spin around, facing the man.
"What is your problem?"
The guy looks scared, staring at my hand which has his own in an inescapable grip. He gulps, "I was just... just gonna make sure you were doing alright. The streets aren't safe at this time of night."
[Lie detected.]
I grabbed a finger, pulling it backwards, "I'm going to give you a second chance. Let you leave with just a broken finger. But if I ever see you again?"
I jerk the finger backwards, the man letting out a shrill scream as his finger snapped.
"I will kill you."
The man drops to the floor in pain, whimpering to himself. He deserved worse. Much worse. I'm definitely not the first girl he's approached. But I don't want to be killing and maiming people when the police could track it back to me. Even if they might deserve it.
I continue walking down the street, but I can still feel myself being watched. A pair of eyes following closely. My eyes narrowed. It did say he was the 'Head Thug'. Had he brought along a gang with him? Were they following me?
It was troublesome. I don't have the means to subdue groups without killing them. If a group were to attack now, it was kill or be killed.
I hear the footsteps again.
He had his chance. I spin around, preparing for a fight. But there's no one there.
I go to shout, but a hand wraps around my mouth, pulling me into an alleyway. His breathing is heavy, like he's struggling to breathe. I struggle, elbowing my captive in the face, sending him spinning.
I see him sprawled on the ground in a heap. I move over to him, stomping on one of his legs. I look closer at his face., It wasn't the guy who was following me...
I deliver a punch to his face, hopefully knocking the man out for a while.
[Street Thug rendered unconscious. 150XP received.]
I turn, intent on leaving the filthy alleyway.
Oh?
There, at the exit of the alleyway, there are about six guys. The one who was following me before stood at the head of them. He gritted his teeth at the sight of me.
"That's her. The bitch broke my fucking finger."
He glanced over my figure, and with the light illuminating the alleyway, he took a good look at me, "What the fuck? The hell is wrong with your skin lady? Bit early for Halloween ain't it?"
I didn't answer, quickly casting observe on all of the thugs. They were all around the same level, give or take a few. Hmmm. I didn't want to kill unless I had to, but I'm backed into a corner. Literally. No doubt if I surrender or lose, they'll beat me into a pulp and...
Nevermind. These people truly do deserve to die. Fuck the GCPD and fuck Batman too. Not everyone deserved to live.
"What's with the gown? You one of them loonies escapin' from Arkham, huh?"
I hear splashes from behind me, blocking off the exit. Four more guys... So overall around ten people. Still, I'm pretty confident in my ability. I'll just have to line some of them up for collaterals.
"You promised that you were gonna kill me, eh? Still think you can do it?"
"Oh, I plan to. I don't know what you guys thought when you planned this half-assed attempt at trapping me, but I promise you, it's not going to end the way you think it is. One last chance. Take it, or don't. I'd prefer the former, though."
The thug looked among his friends, and they all began to howl in laughter. I stared at them in disbelief.
It almost made me laugh. They were acting exactly like a stereotypical thug would. Like they were created to perform for this exact moment. Were they that shallow? Nobody in my old world would have acted like this.
He wiped a tear from his eye, "I haven't had a laugh like that in...? I don't know how long. You're hilarious. There's ten of us and one of you."
I don't respond, watching for the thugs to make their first move. He could be talking to distract me.
His eyes roam my body, "Nevermind that. I'll admit, you've got to be the best looking girl I've ever seen. Even better than them models on TV, eh boys?"
There was a murmur of agreement between the thugs.
Hmmm. They didn't see me as much of a threat, which was good. But I needed more. If I could make him angry, taunt him so he loses focus and succumbs to rage, I can take the leader out first and the rest will crumble.
I smile at him, "Well that's not a surprise, is it? Your mother must be disappointed, carrying you for nine months just for you to look like that."
Fury ripples across his face, "Don't talk about my mother, you whore. I'll fucking kill you."
"Try it. You'll end up like your friend here." I gesture to the body next to me, the man drooling as he slept. Their eyes follow my hand before returning to me.
The man goes to speak, but I interrupt him.
I held up my hands, showing ten fingers, "I'm going to count to ten. Anyone who wishes to leave may do so. I will not come after you," I turned to each of the thugs, making sure they understood. "Anyone still here after that? You will die. Plain and simple."
Silence stretched throughout the alleyway, the only sound coming from cars in the distance. The thugs looked at each other in disbelief, unable to believe what they were hearing.
"10."
Nobody moved.
"9."
The thugs looked toward their boss, who continued to stare at me.
"8."
The rain continued to fall, splashing onto the ground next to me, soaking my feet.
"7."
The gentle snores of the man beside me began to grow quieter.
"6."
I could feel my own heartbeat grow in anticipation, hammering in my chest.
"5."
"Fuck this shit. This bitch is crazy. I'm out." One of the thugs walked off, though the others were still rooted in place.
"4."
The boss finally broke from his stupor, screeching at the top of his lungs, "KILL THE BITCH!"
"3."
The thugs began to move forward, although slowly. They were still cautious, due to me showing no fear even as they drew closer.
"2."
One of them began to sprint towards me, a yell leaving his mouth.
"1."
The one sprinting at me throws a punch, [Enhanced Reflexes] beginning to kick in. His mouth is open in a yell, showing his blackened and rotting teeth. I step to the side, delivering a swift punch to the face, his remaining teeth leaving his gums and spilling onto the floor.
I hear the frantic footsteps of two thugs behind me, eager to end the fight quickly. I turn, and seeing the opportunity, I use [Root Strike].
The root bursts from the ground, sailing towards the two men, easily piercing their flesh. Their intestines spill onto the root, dying it red. They died instantly.
[2x Street Thug Slain. 400XP received.]
[You have reached level 5. A new skill can be chosen. You can only choose one skill.]
[Venus Flytrap - Legendary Skill]
Summon a giant Venus Flytrap, capable of consuming your enemies. When an enemy is consumed by this, there is a chance for a random amount of their stats or a skill to be absorbed. 50SP
Or
[Giant Root Strike]
A bigger and sharper version of root strike, this can easily pierce humans and Meta-Humans alike. Greater SP Cost.
This wasn't a hard choice at all. Absorbing stats and skills was too valuable to pass up, especially this early on in the game. Give me Venus Flytrap, System.
[Venus Flytrap] selected.
The rest of the thugs are frozen and unmoving, unable to comprehend the image of their friends impaled before them.
They deserve it. How many women had fallen prey to their desires? And how many more would have if I let them live here? If I hadn't fought back, I would have been one of them.
Yes, they have to die. Perhaps this is just the plant side of my brain speaking, and the parts that allowed me to feel empathy were destroyed in the process. But it didn't matter now. They had to die.
"Li-Listen lady I don't know what you are but if you let me go I won't tell a soul. Please..."
A man kneeled before me, begging for his life. I warned him, did I not? I was fair. I gave them a choice to run. And one of them did. He should have followed the example of his peer more closely. If the situation was reversed, I know none of them would show the same mercy.
Hmmmm. I don't want to do this, but I needed to level [Kiss Of Death]. If I can get it high enough level so that it could affect meta-humans, I'll be able to defeat any powered individual that may come after me. It is a legendary skill after all.
I'm not going to enjoy this. Especially on someone who looks like they haven't showered for months. I move closer to the man, tears escaping from his eyes as I got closer.
"Do me a favour, then I'll let you go."
He nodded his head slowly, "Thank you, Miss. I'll repent. I'll never touch another woman in my life. I swear it."
I kneel opposite him, his brown eyes staring into mine. It's still raining, and with every drop on my skin, I can feel myself becoming stronger. Plants require water and sunlight to survive, I suppose I'm no different.
The rest of the thugs around us are still frozen in shock, staring at the remains of their comrades impaled on my roots.
I don't want to waste any time, so I bring myself closer to him, planting my lips on his own. A shudder of repulsion spreads throughout me, and I pull away quickly. His face quickly turns green, the poison already taking effect.
"That was the best thing I've ever felt in my life... amazing..."
He trails off, slumping dead on the floor. Interesting, so my kiss gives a euphoric feeling before death?
[Thug Slain. 200XP given.]
The six thugs left still haven't managed to recover from their shock. Perhaps if they had, they might have been able to run and survive.
Mhm. Well, if they're still here, it's time I tested out my new skill.
Unlike the root strike, the rumbling in the earth is much bigger, the ground slightly shaking, as if a small earthquake was taking place. Then, from directly below three of the men, it reveals itself, swallowing them whole. It immediately retreats into the ground, the pavement closing back in on itself. The cracks disappear as if a giant plant was never here. A Venus flytrap consumes its prey over time, so those men will slowly feel themselves being eaten alive, unable to do anything.
The rest of the thugs finally break out of whatever trance they were trapped in, immediately running for the exit. That won't do. I block the exit off with a [Venus Flytrap] rendering them unable to leave. I note my SP is completely drained with that move now, so I'll have to take these three myself.
They look back and forth between the flytrap and me, deciding what would be easier to take down. The three of them turn to me, fear evident in their eyes. They're like a bunch of cornered animals except these aren't dangerous. Not anymore.
I moved slowly, with every step forward they flinch, waiting for their demise. My eyes land on the head thug, his face filled with terror.
"I thought you said you were going to kill me, hmmm? I'm waiting."
He shook his head back and forth, "Wha-What a-are you? You're n-not human! You're a m-monster..."
"We are both monsters, then. Just in different ways."
Ironic of him to call me a monster when he's ruined the lives of many himself, is it not? I'm sure many have called him the same as he forced himself on them.
"I'll tell you what. All three of you, come at me at once. The last one alive gets to leave alive. Sound fair?"
Still, they stood in the corner, unmoving. Killing them when they weren't fighting back... It just felt wrong. I couldn't just let them go now though, even if I wanted to. They'd report this to the GCPD and Batman will no doubt catch a whiff of it. I do not need him on my back. Not this early.
"Fine. I'll just--"
I feel air brush by my ear as a knife sails by, nicking it slightly. A small drop of green blood drips onto the pavement.
- 1HP
I grab the handle of the knife, twisting it around, and throwing it back to the thug. I threw it with such force it goes straight through his eyeball and into the back of his skull, killing him instantly.
[Street Thug Slain. 100XP]
One of them is faster than the others, reaching me within a matter of seconds, swinging his knife at me. I sidestep, bringing down my elbow onto his arm, breaking it instantly. He immediately drops the knife, which I grab mid-air, shoving it into his jugular before he has a chance to scream.
[Street Thug Slain. 100 XP]
[Enhanced Reflexes] is no joke. It won't work as well on meta-humans whose powers focused on speed or durability, but against regular humans? It was a cheat code.
My hand is drenched in blood now, the metallic smell overpowering my nose. The last thug left freezes again, witnessing the fate of his two friends must have traumatised him. I sigh, disappointed. I walk up to the man, who kneels in despair, muttering incoherently under his breath.
I heard a roar behind me, heavy footsteps pounding on the pavement, growing closer. I turn, seeing the man who I knocked unconscious with my punch earlier charging towards me. Honestly, I wouldn't have even noticed he was still alive if he stayed down...
I bring the ancient sword out from my inventory, swinging it at him. It lands on his shoulder, the man letting out a scream of agony. I removed the sword from its resting place, his blood spraying onto my face. I flinch in disgust, bringing the sword down onto his skull.
[Street Thug Slain. 100 XP]
I wiped the sweat that was beginning to form on my forehead. This was truly exhausting work.
I try to deposit the sword back into my inventory, but the body goes along with it.
I'll deal with that later, though it's interesting to know I can store bodies in there...
I bring my attention back to the man, whimpering before me. Now, what should I do with him? Level up root strike? Venus him? Kiss Of Death him? I shudder at the thought. No. His teeth were similar to the man's before.
[3x Street Thug Slain. 600XP. 2 VIG gained.]
Right, the three guys who were taken by the flytrap. So it takes around three or four minutes for normal humans to be consumed? I wonder if that's any different for skilled humans, say Batman or Green Arrow? I have a lot of tests to conduct, regarding my abilities.
Now, to deal with this guy... I honestly didn't know. I needed to get out of here as soon as possible though. The guy I let go might be grabbing reinforcements or maybe even the police if he's desperate enough. I don't have any SP left, so I can't use any of my skills. And I'm not using [Kiss Of Death] here.
The old fashioned way, then. I kneel before him, drool falling down his chin as he looked into my eyes.
"Listen. Be better in your next life, okay? Don't be a piece of shit."
I shove my hand through his gut, tearing a massive hole in his body. Blood pours out, spilling onto the ground and forming a puddle.
[Head Thug slain. 300XP gained.]
[You have reached level 6.]
The Great Devourer - Legendary Quest
You are the one who consumes all, growing more powerful with the defeat of each enemy.
Difficulty: Hard
Objective: Kill and consume 250 Humans with [Venus Flytrap] [3/250]
Reward: 5 Gacha Tokens, [Great Devourer] Skill, 20,000XP, [Greatsword Of Nature]
It had stopped raining now, leaving my hospital gown soaked in blood and water. The alleyway was flooded with blood, flowing like a river. Bodies littered the floor like a battlefield.
I'll have to clean this up. I don't want Batman or the GCPD finding them...
I pile all of the bodies on one another, waiting for my SP to regenerate so I can summon another flytrap plant. The place was truly a harrowing sight. Body parts strewn about the alleyway, blood leaking into the nearby grates.
Finally. I have enough SP.
It breaks through the earth, taking the bodies with it, leaving no evidence except the blood, which I hoped no one would take notice of. I don't exactly have time to grab a mop and remove all the blood, so this will have to do.
Looks like I don't get the stats from already dead things, which is good to know now rather than later. Anyone who I want to absorb has to be alive, which could prove tricky with powerful individuals.
Now, the plan. I need a warm bath and a change of clothes. I might have levelled a little, but I still want to be more prepared for the dungeon fight.
But where could I go that would be accepting of someone with green skin? Was there a haven for so-called 'freaks'? And the police will be looking for me. I need to keep a low profile.
I sighed. Having green skin was going to be a lot harder than I thought it would be.
Batman surveyed the scene, looking on in disgust. Most of the blood had been cleaned by the GCPD, but the smell remained. This alleyway would forever be tainted by evil, like many others in Gotham.
The Dark Knight had been alerted to the scene by his connection in the GCPD, Jim Gordon. Yesterday morning a man had run into the GCPD, shouting about how a green-skinned woman had killed all his friends. Batman skimmed over the report once again.
'At 4:47 AM, an individual named Joel Wright charged into the GCPD. He claimed a woman with green skin had taken all his friends. He had fled the scene after she threatened to kill all of them. When he returned, all that was left were pools of blood.'
The report then went on to link another file at the bottom, regarding a recent raid on a laboratory.
'On June 26th, a raid was conducted on a laboratory owned by Jason Woodrue. Detectives had triangulated the disappearings, starting around two years ago, which lead to this laboratory. Jason Woodrue was observed 24/7 and brought in for questioning several times. It was not until several women from Woodrue's place of work went missing that a raid warrant was finally permitted.
When SWAT found Jason Woodrue, he was being attacked by Pamela Isley, one of the missing persons. She killed Jason Woodrue, upon which a member of the SWAT opened fire in self-defence.
Pamela has undergone paranormal changes, such as the colour of her skin turning green. Her blood is entirely toxic, burning the equipment that was used in an attempt to gain a sample of her blood. A warrant for Pamela Isley's arrest has been issued.'
The report concluded that Pamela Isley was a prime suspect in the disappearances of the men. She had escaped from custody quite easily. Doctors projected it could be months before she awoke, so security was non-existent. A big mistake, Batman thought. Never underestimate your opponent.
Batman narrowed his eyes, scanning the report. Pamela Isley was the perpetrator, no doubt about it. The timings weren't a coincidence. A day after she escaped, twelve men went missing. And there was an eye witness to place her at the scene.
What else had the experimental toxin done to her body and mind? Batman had looked up Pamela's profile - beforehand she was described as a sweet, shy young girl with a bright future ahead of her. What had happened inside that laboratory to make an innocent girl a cold-blooded killer?
Batman intended to find out.
He patrolled the scene, looking for any type of evidence that could help lead him to the location of Pamela. The GCPD were good, but they didn't have access to the same technology he did.
Batman cycled through different visions from his cowl. Night vision showed nothing. Infrared, however...
A speck of green blood, eating away at the pavement. Highly acidic, it seemed. It's possible the GCPD could have missed it with the alleyway being drenched in blood.
He would need an acidic-resistant cylinder to carry the blood. For now, he would have to deal with a less informational overview.
"Alfred, can you give me the scan results?"
A British accent crackled on the other end, "Of course, Master Bruce. Give me a few moments... Hmm, most peculiar indeed."
"What is it?"
"Do not touch the acid, Master Bruce. I fear you will lose your fingers. The acid is far stronger than even fluoroantimonic acid. Touching it without the proper equipment and procedures would result in major bodily harm."
"Ask Lucius if he can make a cylinder resistant enough to house the acid. And leave a message to Gordon to block this area off until I'm finished here."
"Understood, Sir. Would you like some tea brewed for your return?"
"I won't be back. Not tonight, Alfred."
Alfred sighed but didn't argue. He knew it was futile to try and convince him, "Very well, Master Bruce. Good luck, and be careful."
Alfred cut the call, leaving Batman alone again. He observed the scene, trying to figure out where the men had gone.
How had she managed to hide nine men, within a thirty-minute time frame? Thirty minutes, from the time the man fled and returned. Only to find pools of blood...
Batman grunted. When he had first started, it was just petty criminals and gangsters. But every year the problem seemed to grow worse. Individuals with dangerous and volatile powers. There was a cancer growing in Gotham, and he needed to find the source of it. Otherwise, Gotham would consume itself, leaving nothing but ashes.