Welcome back to chapter 4 of Death and Decay, seems like everyone is enjoying the fic so far which is great. Though of course there are always those salty people that don't like it because it doesn't fulfill their view on how every gamer fic should be, but oh well. It be what it be… Anyways hope this chapter is as good if not better than the last 3, Enjoy!
Extended Note: in the last chapter Nero used the Bishop piece to resurrect Joan, I had a few ideas on what to do there and why. But the more I thought about it I decided to make it into a Pawn, it would be more fitting for her abilities and powers that I present in this chapter. For newcomers just ignore the message and those that read it before, hope you are not unhappy with the choice.
"Thinking."
"Talking."
[System]
Exiting Grayfia's room as I think back on our lesson. Turns out behind her stone-cold personality she is quite the amicable woman. Not much happened really, I performed and did what she taught well enough to please her. But not so well of course that it would make her progress our lessons faster. I didn't make much in way of gaining more affection, only another five in the 2-hour lesson. Definitely seeing the progress even out, I may have to step my game up a bit.
Walking down the now dark hallways, light no longer bleeding through the windows as the sun has very well set at this point. I head back to my room with the intention of seeing the state of Joan. Sebastian would have completed my given tasks by now. A few minutes of travel passes as I approach my door and push it open.
I immediately notice the absence of Sebastian and Joan resting under the covers. Her chest rising and falling softly under the sheets, it's only been a few hours, but it seems that there are some appearance changes associated with her reincarnation. Something I don't remember happening from what I can remember. Perhaps there is something different with my Evil piece set?
Who knows, I will have to see how my future peerage members react.
I don't know enough about the actual construction of the evil pieces or the changes they have on the body. It could be beneficial to deconstruct one of the pieces to learn more about them, or maybe even create more. Though I wouldn't begin to know how what to do to recreate them.
A good start would probably be getting a crafting class, or something of the sort. I could look in the store to see if I could buy a skill or something along those lines. I didn't think to check if I could get skills outside of classes, it wouldn't be unreasonable to think so.
Anyways back to the physical changes, her hair is noticeably lighter in color, almost white compared to the blonde it was before. Her skin is quite pale in complexion and her face is more refined and beautiful than before. Judging from her shape under the sheets it looks like her body changed with everything else.
Bearing a more feminine aspect than what she had before, bigger breasts and wider hips of course. Though that is all I can really tell from here, perhaps this is just the evil piece making her more… sinful? In regard to her now devil nature I guess it would make sense.
Sighing as I sit down on the end of the bed. Pulling out my pocket watch to take a look at the time, the ticking filling my ears bringing me comfort.
"9:42… Those lessons went on for longer than I expected." I think to myself.
I don't really need to sleep anymore, or at least not often with the stamina perk I purchased from the store. So, I could go back into the ID for a bit, grind a bit. I only need to change, wouldn't want to ruin my new suit after all.
These things are hard to get nowadays.
Taking of my shoes and removing my suit and placing them on the nearby table neatly. I stand in my underwear as I move to my armoire, pulling open the door, a smile forming on my face as I look at various pairs of suit jackets, pants and undershirts. Opening the drawer, I find different pieces of clothing, some for comfort others casual wear.
Humming to myself as I pick out a few pieces, a grey long sleeve, black pants, some socks and placing them aside. Looking around for some footwear I pause as my eyes land on a set of slippers. Identical to my other ones, a grin forming on my face as I slip my feet into them.
A perfect fit and just as incredibly comfortable as the last pair. Good thing I decided to get a Legendary servant, seems like at every corner he doesn't disappoint. I may need to increase his strength though; he is strong but in comparison to most he is average. It would do good to have a training session in the ID with him and the new members of my peerage.
In fact, it may be good to summon the new members, I am curious how they will react when they all of the sudden appear here. Will they be angry? Or will they be mindless drones only here to serve? I hope it isn't the latter option, that would just be boring.
My thoughts are broken as arms snake around my waste, a soft hand stroking across my abs with a soft moan following. I freeze as I raise an eyebrow before looking down at the arms embracing me. Soft pale skin on dainty arms stroking my muscles. I feel for everything around me, a moment of shock follows as I confirm it is Joan.
"Well, I could say I am glad your awake, but I certainly wasn't expecting this…" I say turning around before looking down at her, a heated blush on her face as her breath quickens as she looks up at me with her now gold eyes.
"My body… My body is just so hot, and when I…I saw you, I couldn't c..control myself. I want you, B..B..Badly~." She moans out as I mentally frown. My hormones begin to rage as a heat courses through me. It takes everything to smash down on my rising lust. I have been working expertly on keeping myself calm, reigning in my easily triggered rage and lust.
Even slight annoyance can turn to prominent anger, the passing thoughts of a beautiful woman sparked the feeling of desire and lust to set in. Only through precise self-control have I been holding back since the start of my new life. The very hard-earned self-control that is beginning to crack at the feeling of soft breasts pressing themselves in my chest. The warm hand that strokes my muscles and sensually lowering to my crotch isn't helping any.
I take a moment to mentally crush all of the quickly rising lust, bottle it up and throw it in the back of my mind to deal with later. I mentally breathe in reserved comfort before peering down at her as I take in her current state. This is no doubt the product of the evil piece, I guess this is an initial side effect after the change.
I'm confident it will pass soon enough, no matter how much I want to take her she will regain clarity and probably hate me. Something like this doesn't just wash away either, I would rather not have an unhappy servant for something as stupid as this. I would much rather take her and not have her regret it later, something that I am completely assure of later.
Plus, it is an insult to my pride to take a Saints chastity so easily, I would much rather earn it and have it be a regular occurrence than just a one off. If I show restraint now, she will appreciate that later on too. I sigh as I hold onto her and walk to the bathroom. A pale of water on the ground, picking it up as I feel the contents are quite cold.
Pulling her off of me before dumping the water over her head, the temperature taking her breath away as she gasps. A look of indignant anger forming on her face. I give her a smirk as she looks at me, her mouth opens to say something before her eyes suddenly widen and a mortified expression appears.
"You in your right mind?" I ask with a chuckle as a blush forms on her face.
"I-I don't know what came over me. T..Thank you for not taking advantage of me." She stutters out suddenly shivering from the ice cold water now dripping from her form.
[15 Affection gained from Joan D'Arc: For the reason stated.]
"Must have been a side effect of your recent change, among others I suppose." I say eyeing her newfound features, confusion blooms on her face as I point to the nearby mirror.
"Go ahead take a look for yourself." I tell her as she shuffles quickly to the object as her eyes widen in shock. She pulls on the strands of her hair, which are now considerably longer than before when she impersonated a man. It now is at the mid of her back, her fingers touching around her eyes as she stares in wonder.
"H-How…" She asks as she runs her hands over her new curves and bust.
"Not sure myself, reincarnating humans into devils is a new thing. Guess this is one of the kinks that still needs to be worked out. I don't think it is a bad one though, I certainly approve." I say with a wink making her blush and stutter, guess she must be new to flirting.
Well impersonating a man will do that…
"With that out of the way, get yourself in some new clothing. I can lend you a spare in my drawer. Pick out whatever you want, except the suits… or the weird looking clothes, those are off limits." I say moving back to the room to dress myself as she follows. I pull open a drawer in the armoire and point signaling for her to take from this one.
Moving away and pulling on my pants, t shirt, socks before sliding my feet in my slippers. I pocket my watch as I turn to Joan just as she enters the room from the bathroom. Now free of her wet clothing and in one of my long sleeve shirts that is hilariously large for her form, but she manages to make it look cute. Her bottoms are mysteriously hidden from view, considering I don't have, any shorts and her legs are bare I can imagine that she is only wearing underwear. She looks to have socks on as well though no footwear.
A thought passes through my mind as I look to the foot of my bed, seeing my older pair of slippers as I nod before turning to her.
"Go ahead and use those slippers there, they were my old ones. In fact, you can go ahead and keep them, they don't fit me anyway." I say shrugging as she moves and slides them onto her feet, a sigh of pleasure escaping her mouth as I chuckle.
"They feel so comfortable…" She says as I nod in appreciation.
"I know right? Nothing seems to compare after putting those on." I respond with a wry grin before it turns to a semiserious look.
"Now that you have some clothing, I would like to test something. Come here." I say gesturing for her to come closer, a questioning look adorns her face before she approaches stopping a few feet from me.
"Now I am going to do something, don't freak out or anything alright." I say as she nods, I sigh as I think about how I should go about this.
I was planning to go to the ID with her, but I am not too sure how to go about bringing her. With thought? It would just make sense to be in physical contact with her.
Guess we will start with the latter first…
My hand moves and rests on her shoulder. "ID Create: Zombie."
As usual the reality breaks like glass, but I do notice that Joan isn't disappearing and is still here, her face frozen in shock as she looks around unable to comprehend the sight all around her. Soon enough my bedroom is replaced with familiar sight of a dilapidated city. The stench of death filling the air, the moaning of the dead can be heard.
"W-What happened, w-where are we?!" She says startled, I guess I can understand. The transportation of the ID is quite a bit more nerve racking than just basic teleportation. I mean you literally see reality shattering before your eyes.
"This is an ability of mine, I transported us to this place. Here we can train and unleash our powers without worry." I say spreading my arms to gesture our surroundings. A look of wonder passes on her face as she looks around, unable to recognize the different buildings or the cars littering the street.
"This is incredible, to be able to create something like this…" She says, the wonder in her tone palpable. I give her a nod before turning deadly serious.
"Yes, but I suggest you keep this little ability of mine a secret, one that you will guard with your life. Is that understood…" I say in a low tone making her gulp slightly before nodding in agreement. It will be fine if I tell her about this, but the game explicitly said not to mention its existence or its properties. Since I didn't say anything about the game and claimed this power to be mine alone it won't be an issue.
Or at least I don't suspect it will be…
"Good, now we are here to make you stronger. First, I want to see something for myself. In humans there are few that are born with special abilities, those gifted by the big man himself in heaven. They are called sacred gears." I say purposefully avoiding the G word, from my understanding it hurts to speak aloud, and I would rather not experience it.
"Are you suggesting that I have a sacred gear? I regret to inform you, but I don't have any sort of special abilities." She says wincing slightly as if expecting my disappointment, I only give her a relaxed expression as I respond.
"Surely you do, most great heroes do. It is possible it hasn't manifested itself yet. Here, do this for me. Think of the strongest thing you can imagine and double it. After that let the thought consume you…" I say making her frown slightly, I just give an encouraging nod as she reluctantly does as she is told.
It only takes a few moments until a long black rod forms in her hand with pointed ends, at the tip a large white flag forms. The insignia of a black dragon encrusted into it as it flaps in the wind. An almost unbearable heat radiating from the banner making me step back slightly.
Joan's eyes flutter open as she looks dumbfounded at the object in her hand before looking at me. A small smile gracing my face as I inspect the flag with an appreciative nod. I don't recognize this sacred gear, in fact scanning through my knowledge of this universe I have never heard of anything like it.
"Well tell me how you feel?" I say as curiosity fills me, Joan shuffles as she looks at her new sacred gear. A smile forms on her face as she shivers taking in the well of power.
"The energy that is flowing through me is incredible, it is hot but not uncomfortably so. It feels comfortable, the weight of the isn't too heavy or too light. I can instinctively understand how to use it as well." She says twirling it around expertly as I take mental notes of her words.
"What can it do?" I ask eying her closely as she taps her chin with her finger.
"Well, I can convert it into a spear, like this." She says before thrusting it outwards, the flag portion hanging down for a moment. In almost an instant it automatically coils itself around the rod tightly not loosening whatsoever. It stays like that, the flag now not impeding the new weapon, and the deadly point looking sharp enough to pierce steal.
"I can also do this. Ha!" She shouts thrusting the spear forward sending a strong wave of fire. The blazing orange flames appearing seemingly out of thin air, everything in their path incinerating. The asphalt melting forming a magma like material for several feet. I clap loudly at the spectacle a broad grin on my face.
I was right to take her into my peerage, this is a strong sacred gear. Quite the potential as well, I could only imagine the power its balance breaker would provide. This ability would no doubt have manifested if she was burned at the stake, only she would have died before it proved any use.
For her to have such power over fire is astounding, and even quite comical that fire itself was the source of her undoing. I could laugh at the thought, but I am glad I was able to snatch her up before she died. Well at least before she was burned at the stake, I fear that if I waited until then her mind would be left broken from the trauma.
"Outstanding! Your Sacred gear is quite impressive, I feel it would be most beneficial with you cultivated that fire ability and your spear work as well. I am sure with time you would be a force to fear." I speak aloud as she heaves a few breaths, sweat forming on her face.
"Your right but it is rather taxing to use. Just the single attack left me feeling exhausted. I think I can do it again if you give me a few minutes." She says in between breaths.
"That is fine just pace yourself, I would like for you to focus on your spear work for now anyways. If you become over reliant on your fire attacks, then it will leave you weak when it counts." I say making her nod, agreeing with my advice.
"Anyway, since this is a sacred gear, I have never heard of why don't you give it a name?" I say making her stand straight in thought before a small smile forms on her face as she looks at the weapon.
"I will call it Roar of Hatred…" She says with a smile as I nod accepting the name.
XXXXXXX
After a few hours of watching Joan practice while I absentmindedly grind my own skills. It took a bit of time for her to get used to the idea of zombies, but she adapted soon enough and started to kill them all indiscriminately. Considering the low difficulty level of the zombies, I mostly brought her here to increase her power so training her spear work was a good start.
She eventually started to do better, her thrusts were not as sluggish and started to gain a bit of precision. I didn't notice any changes to her stats, but she was improving, nonetheless. Interestingly enough I was actually gaining a small bit of experience from Joan's kills, as well as loot, though it was nothing special considering the weakness of these enemies. I managed to gain quite a few levels in my skills as I was supervising.
I managed to get Absolute Dominion to level 9, Stealth to level 28, Clairvoyance to 7. With Clairvoyance and Stealth, I can keep them up indefinitely, but absolute dominion is a different case. I had to constantly recharge my mana, which honestly doesn't take that much time.
A wild guess would be around 90 seconds.
My senses have increased with range along with the leveling of Absolute Dominion. It appears that it follows along with its operational range, I just hope that by the time the skill is max level I don't die from the excess sensory information. Thankfully I can reel it in to a more acceptable level, if I don't, I just get an insane headache and a small nosebleed. Though this will probably change has I gain a higher level and increase my mental stats.
I am mostly just surprised I can literally see everything 95 feet in all directions at this point. I can only hold it for a few minutes until it becomes unbearable, though I can hold it longer each time I try so it may just be something I need to get used to. Its applications are just too good to turn down for something as pathetic as a headache.
The increase of levels regarding Clairvoyance proved to grant considerable boost of how far I can see into the future. It gives .1 of a second for every level, which puts me at seeing a little over a second in the future. Which with my current speed and ability is incredible. If I concentrate hard enough, I can perceive time at a slower rate, but this is still a good boon.
Stealth as always remains useful though its progress has definitely started to slow but since I can keep it up indefinitely. So, I will have to just keep it up until I divert my mana elsewhere. I mean it isn't like it takes 100% of my regen rate so I can still use skills and what not while its up, it's just I will tire quicker.
Destroying the ID and bringing us back into my bedroom, Joan still not used to the transition. I turn to her as she shakes off the slight nausea.
"Good work, we will resume tomorrow. I suggest you get some rest in the meantime. As for your living situation, Sebastian will see to that." I say as Sebastian appears to my side making Joan jump a bit.
"If you will follow me, I will show you to your quarters." He says in a pleasant tone. Joan looks to me as I only give a nod in response before, she follows Sebastian out of the room. I stretch my limbs eliciting a few pops from my joints.
Sighing as I sit down in my bed overlooking my status.
Title: Lord of the Aemon Clan
Name – Nero Aemon
Level - 124
Class – Berserker Level - 21
HP – 28,300/28,300 (+5%/s)
MP – 83,200/83,200 (+723/s)
STR – 220
VIT – 283
DEX – 158
INT – 723
WIS – 416
CHA – 95
LUK – 15
Credits: 827,220
Stroking my chin in thought as I nod absentmindedly at my current progress, a night and day difference compared to what it was when I first started. I look through my skills and only wince, almost all of my skills are incredibly low level. If I had completed the Tower as it was intended my progress would have been exponentially better than it is.
But it was a great boost nonetheless…
Especially considering I have been here less than a week, it is still outstanding and low leveled skills is to be expected. Though it doesn't mean it isn't still disappointing to see. Exiting out of my skills and perks I peer into my current relationships and see my current progress there.
With the affection rates of those I have encounter they look okay; I did get a milestone perk form Grayfia at affection 50. Though curiously enough I didn't get any for Sebastian. As soon as the thought crosses my mind a window pops up.
[System Updating…]
Perk [Butlers Ideal Master] gained for Achieving 50 reputation!
Skill [Shadow Step] Gained for Achieving 100 reputation!
Butlers Ideal Master – All reputation gains with Butlers and Male servants Alike are increased. 50% increased reputation towards servants of the same sex.
Shadow Step (Active) [Max] – A method of teleportation using the shadows, also gives the user a better connection to shadows allowing the user to feel them within a certain proximity.
Range – 1000ft
Cost – 750
[Zombie ID upgraded to The Great Hollow.]
[Inaccuracies in power scaling detected, adjustments made. Tiers added to more accurately gauge power.]
Tier List:
Common: No Boost, the general populace and regarded as the weakest beings, nothing special in the hierarchy of strength.
Greater: x2 Boost, the special few and talented bunch, generally regarded as great heroes among there people. They are capable of great feats but not much else.
Champion: x4 Boost, those that stand out above all others, generally regarded as a Demigod capable of destroying armies if they went all out.
God: x8 Boost, those that are some of the strongest beings, generally immortal, all powerful and worshipped. Capable of destroying civilizations if they went all out.
Cataclysm: x16 Boost The strongest beings in existence striking terror in all others at just the uttering of their name, they are the Apex Predators of existence. Capable of destroying worlds if they go all out. Avoid at all cost.
As soon as the skill window appears a sharp pain enters my head, like a hot knife being stabbed into my forehead. Constantly digging and carving, I clench my jaw shut hard enough to crack my teeth as I focus on ignoring the pain. It remains for a few minutes until it disappears leaving a strange clarity, my newfound connection with the shadows appearing.
For a large distance in every direction, I can feel each and every single shadow now matter how large or small. As if I can just pull one of millions of strings and teleport there instantly. The cost is manageable if I space out the cast to every second, but I am sure I can cast it multiple times a second confusing the enemy. It can provide incredible advantages and versatility in battle, it would work especially well with the Assassin class.
Not to mention that the Zombie ID was upgraded, something that could provide quite a bit more opportunity with growth and items. I am curious to see what kind of changes could have occurred, could the enemies have increased in strength? I would bet a new dungeon Boss appeared as well, it would only make sense.
The tier list basically makes all of the other people's statuses void at this point, I would have to see them again to get an accurate reading. Though this could provide a possibly terrifying aspect to some others status'. Serafall's or Grayfia's could have been heavily altered based on that fact. It would be good to see what mine is. I pull up my status to take a look only to sigh in disappointment.
Title: Lord of the Aemon Clan
Name – Nero Aemon
Tier - Common
Level - 124
Class – Berserker Level - 21
HP – 28,300/28,300 (+5%/s)
MP – 83,200/83,200 (+723/s)
STR – 220
VIT – 283
DEX – 158
INT – 723
WIS – 416
CHA – 95
LUK – 15
Credits: 827,220
Only a common Tier? It is kind of irritating to look at to be honest. I wonder what exactly is needed to upgrade in tiers. Could it be levels? Quest rewards? It will have to be trial and error until I can figure it out. In the meanwhile, I guess I can check out the upgraded ID.
Actually…
I still have these companion gems to see to. I could just summon them now, one at a time would probably be best. Wouldn't want mass confusion as I summon every single one. Plus, it would be difficult to deal with each of them while trying to calm them down, such a abrupt change would probably be disorienting.
Let's see who should I summon first? I have Leonidas, Beowulf, Heracles and finally Achilles. Maybe I could just go through them in that order. I pull Leonidas' companion gem from my inventory. The object roughly the size of a Softball, its color an interesting silky white. A window appears in front of me asking if I would like to summon the companion. Clicking yes, the orb evaporates in my hand as the particles move and form into a humanoid shape.
I stare with rapt interest as the body slowly forms and gains detail. An impressively muscled man with short red hair and multiple strands flowing down over his face. Numerous red line like tattoos stretches across his body and meet in the center of his chest. Wearing spartan armor that looks to be in tatters, a tired look in his eyes. The shield attached to his arm battered and destroyed, his spear in the other snapped and looked to have just a few feet of usable length, the somewhat sharp tip looked like it was dipped in blood.
Dirt and grime smothered over his body but is otherwise unharmed, his face shows a level of calm that I would only attribute to someone who had accepted death. Though that look is quickly replaced with slight shock as he looks my way and a silence sets in for a moment. We stare at one another for a moment, my indifferent expression filling him with unease as he looks back at me with narrowed eyes.
"So, you are to be the one I serve then?" He said clenching his spear with a tensed grip. It seems he isn't too keen on the idea of servitude to another. I guess I can sympathize. I give a nod as I answer.
"You would be correct… Though tell me. What was the process of you coming here? Call it curiosity." I say as the Spartan King responds with a tired tone.
"Well, I was fighting with my men against the Persians at Thermopylae, we fought for days until we were ultimately defeated. A rain of arrows was what did us in, so many that the sun itself was blocked out of the sky. The arrows were moments away from striking us, but time just stopped and a voice said That if I wanted my people to survive the invasion of Persia I alone would need to live in servitude of the next man I would see." He says as he sighs, I nod absentmindedly at his words. The system sure got him good, whether he served me or didn't his people would have still pushed them back due to his actions at the Hot Gates.
I guess it was necessary in order to earn his servitude, as long as he believed his servitude saved his people then I guess it doesn't hurt anyone. It isn't like he will be treated terribly, no he won't have the same luxury he once did as a king, but he will live well.
"Tell me what happened to my people, did they survive?" He says with a slightly desperate tone as I contemplate his words for a moment.
"Yes, your actions at Thermopylae gave your allied forces enough time to gather their strength to repel Xerxes and his invasion. You and your men saved the Greek world, you are regarded as legends today." I say making him relax as a smile graces his face before he straightens and removes his helmet and kneels. His broken spear at his side and his helmet placed at the other.
"Then I will loyally live in servitude my Lord…?" He says trailing off still not knowing my name before I fill him in.
"My name is Nero Aemon. I am glad to have you among my ranks, Leonidas." I responded with a slight smile as he lowers his head. I pull out a pawn from my inventory and float it down and faze it into his body. This time however he doesn't faint like Joan did. I give him a curious look, perhaps he just has a stronger constitution than Joan did and can resist the sleeping effects.
I proceed to call Sebastian once again to give Leonidas a room and get him cleaned up. I also take the liberty to notify him that a few more will follow, he of course accepts my words without a bat of an eye. I then summon Beowulf, the situation taking a similar route as it did with Leonidas. The same story that he was saved from death and the system spoke in his ear with promises.
This time however it was the promise that he could continue to fight and battle strong beasts. Something that he immediately accepted; it looks like he is quite the battle hungry warrior. Striving for the adrenaline rush that comes with fighting something stronger than himself.
His appearance was one fitting that of a seasoned warrior, many large scars litter his muscled body. He has blonde hair and a trimmed beard to match with a feral grin. He mostly seemed pretty accepting of his servitude as long as he was able to continue fighting. Using a pawn piece on him before I have Sebastian take him away.
I summon Achilles next; his apparent promise was the chance to continue to live as a legend and even become more famous. His appearance was akin to that of an elite athlete, bearing shoulder length blonde hair and a clean shaven face. He was mostly okay with serving me as long as he continued to build his legendary reputation.
I give him the pawn piece as well before Sebastian takes him away, last but not least I summon Heracles. This one had shocked me at his sheer size. He was easily reaching 8 feet tall and had a musculature of a god. He has bronzed skin and long black hair with menacing red eyes. His appearance would make sense, considering his supposedly a demigod.
This fact though can turn complicated since this universe already has a Heracles that is now a god. Though their appearances are very different, probably suggesting that this Heracles and probably the other summons as well are from different universes. Even if they are different from the ones native to this universe it would be better to have them go under an Alias.
He was mostly quiet and only said that he would serve me, he wouldn't delve into what the system had told him. So, I am pretty much clueless on what I need to account for. Considering his behavior, I could guess that this was summoned soon after the killing of his family but I can't be too sure. After Sebastian takes away the final peerage member.
With that last one that leaves be with only 3 pawns, 2 knights, 2 bishops, 2 rooks, and a queen piece. Still a good number of pieces to use, I will keep an eye out for anyone that piques my interest. I do know of a few that I am interested in right now, but they don't appear for a few decades anyway, so I have time.
Now with all that out of the way, it would be good to check out the upgraded ID. I get to my feet as I raise my hand and mentally chanting. "ID Create: The Great Hollow."
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
Appearing once again in the destroyed modern city I fly up into the air. The collapsed tower can be seen not too far in the distance. In fact, as I look around and take in the city, it doesn't look so infinite anymore. I can actually see the outskirts in all directions, beyond that looks like a desolate wasteland, filled with dead plants for as far as I can see.
I narrow my eyes in thought before looking back at the tower, for an upgrade to the dungeon the tower still remains. I decide to fly down to the rubble of the tower inspecting it in case I may have missed something after its collapse. Hovering over it I look into the various large pieces finding mostly nothing that I can see.
I think as I let out a breath, I could focus my sensory abilities to see if I can see anything. Only taking a moment before deciding it's a good option I broaden my senses taking in every single piece of rubble or object inside the collapsed tower. At first, I don't see anything only debris, covering more ground as I follow along the length of the fallen tower a few minutes pass as nothing comes to mind before I hit the tip of the once mighty building.
A large object appearing in my area of senses making me halt. The shape familiar, almost exactly what I would describe as a chest. The indentations of inscriptions and carvings littering it as I feel it out and get closer. Hovering over the area I feel it is buried, only large heavy boulders and rocks are in sight. I sigh and wave my hand manipulating all of the rubble and tossing it aside revealing a platinum chest with and intricate design littering it.
Its appearance looks almost unscathed by the fall of the tower, only looking heavily aged but void of dents or scratches. Mentally manipulating the chest to float next to me as I drop down onto a nearby empty street. A soft thump sounding as I rest it onto the asphalt while I walk up to it. Taking in its appearance once more, the size is rather large. Its height easily reaching my waste and the width around four feet. Two latches on either side of the box looking almost rusted together.
It even looks heavy as fuck…
Bending down and wiping my hand across the top brushing off the dust. Though as soon as my skin touches the cold metal the latches flip open breaking off the rust easily. Pushing the chest open finding the lid stuck shut on the box. I raise and eyebrow as I attempt to force it open utilizing all of the strength in my body. The box standing completely still as my muscles strain, my veins bulge as blood flow increases.
"Grrr…" I grunt as my feet crack the asphalt beneath me. The box however refuses to move or open disregarding all of my attempts at opening it with brute strength. Releasing my hold as I let out a few puffs of air shaking the quickly fading fatigue from my arms. Wiping the sweat from my brow as I summon the invisible blade in my hand about the size of a thin kitchen knife.
I attempt to jam the tip of the blade into the crease along the chest opening. However, it proves to be air tight, unable to push a single bit of my blade inside to get any leverage.
[Would you like to open (Loot Chest) Y/N?]
God damnit, it really had to fucking wait as I made an idiot of myself trying to open it before telling me?
[*Chuckle*]
I shake my head as I look at the window before swiping it away and selecting yes, the chest lets out a burst of air as the seal breaks on the chest. Pushing the lid open with a surprising amount of ease compared to before revealing an empty chest. Though a window displaying several items shows up clouding my vision.
[10,000,000 Credits gained. Skill Gem, Class Grimoire [The Hollowed King, Hollowed Kings Bracers, The Hollowed Soul]
[The Lich King sets true nature has been revealed.]
Skill Gem [Marked Death] – A pulse of energy that envelopes the immediate vicinity, all enemies the energy touches will be marked for death. All enemies that have the status effect marked for death take an extra 5% damage for 15 seconds.
Debuff Damage – 5%
Range – 20 ft
Cost - 1500
Class Grimoire [The Hollowed King] – The History of the King of Hollows and his 1000 year reign. His power, and strength knew no equal. He had the unique ability to create an entity known as a hollow, a being striving to only devour the souls of others, and forever insatiable. The Hollowed King however is able to resist this hollowed effect. Though if the King doesn't actively resist, the power will corrupt and erode the mind, ultimately leading to the Kings downfall. [To earn the class all material within the grimoire must be memorized and the Hollowed Soul must be consumed and all stats must be at least 1000 as a prerequisite.]
Hollowed Kings Bracers – Silver bracers that cover the forearms with intricate carvings littering the metal. Magical energy radiates from the bracers menacingly, when worn they grant the user greatly enhanced speed and strength. [To effectively use the Hollowed Kings Bracers you must have 1000 STR and DEX.]
The Hollowed Soul – The Soul that belonged to the Hollowed King, once holding unimaginable power that had devoured an unnumerable number of souls. Though it has long since been drained and weak, but it still holds the power to grow in strength matching its previous level or perhaps even greater.
[Lich Kings Set revealed to be the Hollowed Kings Set.]
Hollowed Kings Dominion Set Bonus: All Hollows under your command that are in your vicinity have twice the usual amount of health and their attacks are empowered.
Hollowed Kings Crown – Once belonging to a great and powerful King of a long-passed era, was known as a great source of the Kings power and authority. Grants the user double the amount of Mana when worn and gives a passive effect that omits a kingly aura/pressure to those around them. [To effectively use the Hollowed Kings Crown the wearer must have 1000 WIS.]
Hollowed Kings Cloak – A black tattered robe once belonging to a powerful king of a by gone era, said to be crafted from the skin of his greatest enemies. With extreme age and numerous battles, it is now blackened and tattered. Grants its user a significantly increased resistance to all magical attacks and a large majority of Physical. [To effectively use the Hollowed Kings Robe the wearer must have 1000 DEX.]
Hollowed Kings Bracers – Silver bracers that cover the forearms with intricate carvings littering the metal. Magical energy radiates from the bracers menacingly, when worn they grant the user greatly enhanced speed and strength. [To effectively use the Hollowed Kings Bracers you must have 1000 STR and DEX.]
Hollowed Kings Ring – A silver ring with a blue diamond encrusted gem once belonging to The Hollowed King, only remaining as a small reminder of his noble line. Hollowed Kings Offensive Skill damage is Doubled. [To effectively use the Hollowed Kings Ring the wearer must have 1000 WIS.]
Hollowed Kings Axe – A large black double headed battle axe sporting to pointed blades and a large spike protruding outwards from the center. Can harness the user's powers if projected through the blade. [To effectively use the Hollowed Kings Axe the wearer must have 1000 STR.]
My eyes widen comically at the increasing number of screens popping up blocking my vision from view. My heart quickens as I get a look at everything including the rewards. Everything I obtained from the chest seems completely outrageous and incredible. The Class is definitely interesting, considering the name shows up a little differently it may be a special class.
I wonder if the odds of obtaining it are incredibly low or it was meant to be obtained here? Though I severely doubt it is the latter, judging by the potential power gain it wouldn't make sense that every player would have it. The requirements for it are also pretty steep, but I guess it makes sense.
The Hollowed Soul gains my interest as well…
I reach into my inventory intending to grab it, pulling it out as an incredibly small barely lit ember floats in my palm. It has an almost entrancing look about it, like it radiates comfort but also has a cold existence about it as well. I find myself unable to look away from it for a few minutes before I force myself to shake my head and clear my thoughts.
"This thing is definitely not what it seems." I think to myself as a window appears.
[Consume the Hollowed Soul Y/N?]
I contemplate the message for a moment weighing the potential pros and cons. I read the description of the item intending to dissect its information. Though I sigh in frustration as I find it doesn't divulge any particularly negative or positive information, mostly staying neutral. The only thing that could be described as something noteworthy is that it's a growth type item, the more souls I devour the stronger it gets.
The only thing is that what does it do to me if I absorb it along with the other souls? Maybe the best course of action is to put it on standby at least until I am able to learn the Hollowed King class since it is a prerequisite. Though if I am to accomplish that I would need to focus heavily on leveling my current classes to push me over 1000 and then take on another that would raise the other stats similarly. While of course considering its uses beforehand, I will most likely take on a crafting class next, but I still haven't decided on which one yet.
I am mostly stuck between choosing Alchemist or Black Smith. In all honestly Alchemy just seems far more lucrative in the grand scheme of things. I could probably just learn either of these classes on my own as well if I think about it, only it will take quite a bit of time and effort to master either one. I might as well just choose Alchemist; I could create health potions as a cheaper substitute for Phenex tears. Could potentially create a fertility potion as well, that in itself could potentially sell for more than the Phenex tears. Considering the current predicament of the devil society it will prove to be highly sought after.
I nod to myself confirming the next choice of class before putting the Hollowed Soul back into my inventory. I straighten myself as I watch the loot chest disintegrate, no doubt as a result of its recent expenditure. It is unfortunate that I cannot keep it and use it myself, but I guess I don't really need it considering I have the inventory to use.
I let my wings sprout from my back as I float up into the air once again laying eyes on the far off outskirts of the city. Though upon closer look it seems that the outskirts are coming closer and closer. The buildings remnants of the city disappearing leaving only the dead plant life. Even the Zombies are disappearing leaving no evidence that they had ever existed in the first place.
Not even the crumbled tower seems to remain, perhaps there was a magic that it radiated created the city and the zombies around it? While me looting the Dungeon Boss chest was what destroyed the… Illusion? Perhaps considering that the dungeon upgraded, it removed everything from the tutorial but kept the tower and the surrounding cities because I hadn't officially completed it yet. Then upon completing it everything from the tutorial was officially removed thus completing the upgrade of the Dungeon.
Getting a closer look at the terrain, it seems the ground is purely made of ash, not dirt or sand just ash. Along with the dead plant life, it could be accurately described as a wasteland void of life.
Well, no use in thinking about it, I guess now I should just pick a direction and run with it. I choose what I think is north and fly in that direction with as much speed as I can consistently keep up. The ground and dead trees passing with a blurred speed as I continue to see nothing noteworthy.
"This may take a while…" I think with a sigh.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Flying over a tall ashen mountain range as I sigh, it I have been flying for probably 4 or 5 hours at this point at the speed of maybe 200 miles an hour. The only reason I haven't collapsed in exhaustion is because of my nigh limitless stamina. But I do feel myself becoming slightly tired. I still have yet to find anything, the only change being that the terrain has changed slightly. Becoming more mountainous at this point but ash still filling the ground, nevertheless.
I am almost at the point of giving up until I see the beginnings of a colossal rock face in the distance, the slight protrusions that I can see at the top making my eyes widen and a smile form on my face. If I am right, they look like the tops of buildings. An excitement fills my chest as I force myself to speed up and approach the structures.
Only taking another 10 or so minutes until I am met with the same rockface I saw in the distance. Its height looking to almost touch the clouds, I rocket myself upwards to the top. Upon reaching it I see a giant stone wall that stretches the entire edge for as far as I can see.
Floating up over the edge and landing on the wall, I stand frozen with shock at the sight. A colossal medieval kingdom with numerous buildings and a giant castle in the center sitting noticeably higher than everything else. The clouds themselves look to be setting over the buildings producing a smokey affect.
The city itself looks to be almost still and lifeless, looking in the distance in the streets I can see humanoid shapes either standing still or shuffling around. All holding a weapon of some type, or anything that can be considered a weapon really. They all seem horrible emaciated and decaying, most wearing torn rags while the few have rusty worn armor. My guess is they are the citizens, and the others were the guards or the knights.
There are even a few big ones here and there, with large polearms and almost fat looking armor. Other than those I can't really see anyone else, but there is a silence and stillness about the city that gives off quite the unnerving feeling.
The tumble of a rock far off to my right gains my attention as my head turns quickly searching for the source. An emaciated soldier like the ones down below, though this one has a crossbow. I watch as it reaches for a bolt in the quiver on its side sluggishly. I cast a quick observe to see what I am dealing with.
Title: Hollow
Name – Hollow Soldier
Tier - Common
Level - 59
HP – 6,800/6,800
MP – 1,000/1,000
STR – 49
VIT – 68
DEX – 25
INT – 16
WIS – 5
CHA – 12
LUK – 9
My eyes stop and take in the name of the undead creature in front of me, Hollow. It bears the same name as the class I had recently gotten, perhaps this is the result of what happened to the Hollow King had succumbed to the effects of his powers and went mad. Ill have to take this knowledge with a grain of salt, get a better idea of what becomes of those that are under the influence of the strange power in the dungeon. If the description of the Hollowed Kings class was any indication its potential for strength is impressively.
Although this Hollows stats are impressive this is just one on the outskirts, I am sure once I get deeper into the city stronger, they will get. My musings are broken by the sound of the crossbow launching a bolt at me. I just catch it out of the air nonchalantly, this however doesn't even faze the hollow as it works to just knock another bolt and continue.
It seems like it is pretty mindless, only doing what it probably did as a soldier. Which by the looks of it was shoot arrows at things it considered an enemy repeatedly. I use absolute dominion on a nearby boulder before sending it flying at the Hollow crushing its body instantly killing it with a sickening crunch.
[5,000 credits gained, 5,000 XP gained]
Turning back to look at the city as I absentmindedly play with the bolt, thinking about my next course of action. Looking along the streets then at the bigger buildings, a larger concentration of bigger Hollows in heavy armor with large weapons. Those I am sure are many times larger than the one I just faced. Though the entrance to the large buildings have fog covered doors, seeing this I can't help but feel intrigued.
Throwing the bolt to the side as I fly downwards activating clairvoyance. Approaching the area just before the fog door alerting the 4 armored Hollows with long swords and shields. I look on calmly and cast an observe as they walk slowly towards me.
Title: Hollow
Name – Lothric Knight
Tier - Common
Level - 125
HP – 12,300/12,300
MP – 1,800/1,800
STR – 105
VIT – 123
DEX – 97
INT – 23
WIS – 9
CHA – 17
LUK – 10
My eyes widen in slight surprise at its apparent strength compared to the regular soldiers. This may actually be pretty challenging with all of them attacking me at once. I Summon my Invisible blade and lengthen it to roughly the size of a longsword. In an instant I teleport using shadow step into the shadow of one of the knights
Slashing at the back of the neck of the knight, my blade gouging out a section of the armor and cutting deep. The knight staggers before a flash crosses my mind, turning with lightning speed I dodge the shield bash that followed from the now damaged knight.
The other three knights converge on me removing intending to remove my chances of escaping. I mentally scoff as I teleport away, I frown as I watch them. They just turn to me and slowly walk to my direction once again, they seem relentless.
I had wanted to just kill them with my melee based skills but it seems they are a bit too low level for me to use them effectively considering their strong armor. I just simply don't do enough damage that way to be useful. I mean I could just keep going at them and eventually kill them, it would just be time consuming.
Sigh…
"I might as well just do it, I really need to level them up anyways." I think to myself as I teleport back into the Knights shadows and slashing at them, whittling them down slowly but surely. It takes about another ten minutes of fighting to kill them all. I had dispersed my method of fighting pretty equally between my Berserker fighting style and the Assassin fighting style.
[Lothric Knights x4 Killed! 30,000 xp gained, 30,000 credits gained.]
[Berserker leveled to 23. Way of the Berserker leveled to 19, Way of the Assassin leveled to 17.]
A small amount of power rushes through my body, my muscles tighten slightly and a bit more energized along with my body. Other than that, I don't feel much of a difference, my skills leveled up quite nicely as well. If anything, these Lothric Knights are a great source of experience as well. I should farm these guys to increase the levels of my classes and skills.
In comparison these guys are quite a bit stronger than those in The Great Forest dungeon. Maybe the area I am in is just in a higher difficulty, I look to the fog wall and contemplate whether or not I should mess with it. I reach out with my senses feeling for everything in the room, nothing really picks up my sense from what I can tell.
Shrugging I walk up and touch the smoke, surprised by the lack of resistance. Like it truly was just fog, my eyes widen however when I realize I cannot get my arm back out. Deciding to stick with it I just push myself through it entering a giant chapel like hall. Turning I attempt to push back through the fog only to find my hand wont pass through, as if an unstoppable force is preventing me from doing so.
[Mini Boss has appeared!]
A murky portal on the ceiling as a large figure drops out of it onto the floor. Getting a better look as I see the figure stand with an unnerving grace. A lanky being with slimline armor, horrifyingly long limbs as a caustic dark ooze drips from the body closely resembling that energy from the portal. Two long swords in either hand, one with that dark energy and the other swathed in flames. I cast a quick observe.
Title: Greater Hollow
Name – Dancer of the Boreal Valley
Tier - Greater
Level - 364
HP – 47,000/47,000
MP – 95,800/95,800
STR – 410
VIT – 470
DEX – 515
INT – 509
WIS – 479
CHA – 456
LUK – 103
My eyes widen as I see the stats of the enemy in front of me, it walks forth with deceptively slow steps. This is highly unnerving considering its DEX stat is insane. In fact, its tier was greater as well, so everything I see in its stats are effectively doubled.
A small feeling of fear sets itself inside my chest as I look at its form slowly approach me. Readying my blade as I watch, clairvoyance still active. A flash crosses my mind making my eyes widen, the Dancer blurring and appearing in front of me with the caustic black sword outstretched. I only manage to bring my blade up to block, barely fast enough to react.
The force sending me backwards crashing into a nearby pillar, the crunching sound of my spine and ribs radiating through my head as I tumble. My breath escaping me as I try to inhale, my bones popping back in place as relief fills me. A flash once again filling my mind, however this time I teleport to the other side of the room. The pillar I was next to before splitting apart as the Dancers blades slice through it.
I run through ideas in my mind trying to figure out a way to defeat this thing. My thoughts only coming down to one thing. The use of my skill Deaths Aura, as well as Decay. I take a deep breath as I deactivate invisible blade while simultaneously activating Deaths Aura. The comfortable chill that fills my body sets in, the surroundings around me turning to a grey ash.
Feeling the drain on my mana I teleport over the Dancer and landing on its back. The being instantly reels back and unleashes a blood curdling screech, the armor over its body eroding. I clamp my fingers on the armor holding on tightly as I focus decay through my hands. My arms sink through the armor and into the flesh as the Dancer twists and coils attempting to throw me off.
A few seconds later my hands had grabbed onto its spinal column before they cut through it like butter, the Dancer plopping onto the floor in a heap unable to move. Deactivating Deaths Aura as I jump off of the entity taking a look at it. It armor had been completely eroded away and several sections of its body had turned a greyish color as cracks in its flesh form. Poking one of the cracked sections I watch as it crumbles to ash easily.
I guess this would be the effect the Deaths Aura has on strong enemies. I mean considering all of its stats were effectively about a 1000 this result is impressive. I was a little worried there to be honest, if I hadn't had my healing perk I would have been incapacitated at the start of the fight.
I came in horribly unprepared…
I guess I need to take a mental note to avoid the fog walls until I am sure I am ready to face whatever is on the other side. Looking down at the beast, placing my foot on its head before crushing it downwards, my foot falling into its skull.
[Mini Boss Dancer of the Boreal Valley has been slain!]
[300,000 credits gained, 300,000 xp gained, Soul of the Dancer gained, Dancers Enchanted Swords gained!]
[Berserker leveled to 27, Invisible blade leveled to 60, Deaths Aura leveled to 21!]
Another rush of power fills me as I watch the body of the Dancer disintegrate and disappear. The items it dropped automatically entering my inventory. I pull my watch out of my pocket to find the time.
"Its already almost morning." I mumble aloud as I pocket my watch once again.
I would like to hang around and explore more of the city here, but I should get back. I have been out for most of the night so far, so it would do me well to return. Plus, I am starting to get pretty hungry, lifting my hand into the air as I chant the memorized words in my head.
"ID Destroy."
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Extended Note: If you have any questions or want to come say hello, you can find me here on the Shiro's Gaming Omniverse server, I have my own channel there that you can check out under the name Plans Agenda. discord. gg/ jqFTwm8S
Appearances of those in Nero's Peerage.
Joan D'Arc – Jeanne Alter from fate.
Leonidas – The Fate version, his appearance matching the only one with him sitting on a throne.
Beowulf – The Fate Version.
Achilles – The Version from the Movie Troy with Brad pit. Honestly just don't like how the fate one looks.
Haracles – The Fate Version, His True Archer appearance.
Peerage:
King: Nero Aemon
Queen:
Rook:
Rook:
Knight:
Knight:
Bishop:
Bishop:
Pawn: Joan of Arc (Jeanne Alter Fate/Grand Order)
Pawn: Beowulf (Fate)
Pawn: Leonidas (Fate)
Pawn: Achilles (Fate)
Pawn: Heracles (Fate/True Archer)
Pawn:
Pawn:
Pawn:
