Jaune and I moved with a steady jog, our footsteps a soft cadence in the quiet of the deserted road. Each flickering lantern briefly illuminated the fields around us, revealing nothing but the night's embrace.
"Quite the view, huh?" I quipped, the smirk on my face belying my unease. "Nothing like a midnight run down an empty road to get the blood pumping."
Jaune's laughter broke through the stillness, his fair hair catching the lanterns' glow. "Dream come true, right? Midnight jogging, top of my list."
I shot him a look, my smirk widening. "Right up there with slaying Grimm and saving the world. The stuff of legends."
The lanterns cast their amber glow sporadically, revealing the path in brief, haunting flashes—the rustle of leaves, the chirp of nocturnal creatures, all hidden from sight. Shadows stretched towards us, as if reaching out from the darkness with each step we took.
"Remember when the biggest challenge was the Beacon entrance exams?" Jaune said, his voice tinged with a nostalgia that seemed out of place in the dark.
"I never attended one of those schools," I replied, my tone dry. "And now, here we are, playing the tough guys for a town that barely knows us."
A distant howl cut through the night, and instinctively, our pace quickened. The path ahead seemed to stretch into forever, the lanterns too sparse to promise any real safety.
"They said we'd be heroes," I muttered, more to myself than to Jaune. "Bet they left out the part about midnight runs in Grimm territory."
Jaune's chuckle was a welcome sound. "Well, we did sign up for this, didn't we? And hey, it's not all bad. We're doing something important, even if it's not what we expected."
The path grew rough underfoot, the once smooth road now littered with debris. Grimm tracks and bullet holes told a story of a recent struggle, one that didn't quite reach the construction site.
"Looks like trouble," Jaune noted, his gaze scanning the scene.
"Grimm attack, maybe?" I suggested, squinting into the darkness.
"Possibly. But these bullet holes... they're avoiding the construction zone. It's like they were defending against the Grimm without damaging the equipment," Jaune mused, concern creeping into his voice.
The dim lanterns struggled against the encroaching darkness, their light revealing the aftermath of a battle between man and beast. The tension in the air was palpable, and I couldn't help but feel we were stepping into a situation far more complex than the mayor had implied.
We continued down the Countryside Road, following the lanterns until we reached a clearing. A group of construction workers huddled together, their leader—a man with a white helmet—standing apart, smoking.
I approached the man with the white helmet, my footsteps crunching on the gravel. "Hey," I called out, clearing my throat to catch his attention. "We were sent by the mayor. He wants you guys to clear off the road."
The man paused, his cigarette momentarily forgotten. "Mayor, huh?" he mused, smoke curling from his lips. "Well, we've got a bit of a situation here. I'm the leader of this contract, and I may have made a slight mistake."
Jaune and I exchanged a quick glance. There was more to this than a simple delay. "Mistake?" Jaune pressed, his voice laced with curiosity.
"Yeah," the man admitted, a grimace crossing his features. "We were setting up camp in the woods, trying not to block the road. But we stumbled upon a Grimm nest. Tried to get the bulldozer back, but there were too many. We waited for daylight, hoping they'd disperse, but it's like a Grimm party out there. Can't turn on the lights with that many lurking around."
"So, you're stuck?" I asked, my arms folding across my chest.
"Stuck is an understatement," he replied. "We need to finish this job, but it's not going to be easy. I've got to drive the bulldozer out, and my workers need to guard the campsite. The bulldozer is slow, and with this many Grimm, it's a real gamble."
Jaune stepped up, resolve etched on his face. "We're hunters in training. We can help you clear the path, deal with the Grimm, and get your equipment out. What do you say?"
The man with the white helmet sized us up, weighing our offer. After a moment, he sighed and put out his cigarette. "It won't be easy, but if you're willing to help, we'll give it a shot. I'm not leaving until this job's done. We've got to clear that road. Grab some gear; we're going to need all the help we can get."
He picked up a flashlight and a shotgun, and as we walked past the tents and armed workers, he briefed us on the situation.
OPTIONAL QUEST: Operation Nightlight
- Assist Doug in retrieving the bulldozer
"We were about to finish setting up the lights along the road to the next town. There's a generator hidden in a cave nearby, safe from bandits. Our electrician's been there since the incident. Once we retrieve the bulldozer, we can clear the road to the cave and pick him up. Hopefully, he's finished his part."
"What's his part, anyway?" I inquired, intrigued by the operation.
The man pointed ahead as we ventured deeper into the woods. "All the posts are connected to the generator in the cave. To keep the lights on, we need that generator running."
Jaune nodded, clearly interested. "My grandad used to talk about setups like this. Surprised you still use it, especially here."
The man chuckled. "Old equipment was cheap. It might not be the latest technology, but it works."
We continued deeper into the woods, the flashlight's beam our only barrier against the darkness. The silence was punctuated only by our footsteps and the distant murmurs of the workers.
As the shadows clawed at the light, Jaune gave me a curious look. I realized I hadn't asked the man's name.
"Hey, I never got your name," I said, quickening my pace.
He glanced back, his eyes catching the light. "Doug O'Riley. Just Doug's fine."
Jaune commented, "O'Riley? That's not common around here."
Doug laughed. "It's an old family name. We kept it when others didn't. The O'Rileys are a stubborn lot."
Jaune raised an eyebrow. "Unique, for sure. Not your usual name around here."
Doug's voice held a note of pride. "Yeah, it's got history. Sometimes you keep the past alive, even if it's just a name."
We reached the bulldozer, its yellow frame a testament to years of service. Doug climbed into the driver's seat, his hands sure as he checked the controls and attempted to start the engine.
The growls of Grimm grew louder, and red eyes glowed in the darkness. The tension was palpable as Doug struggled with the engine.
Notification: Grimm nest extermination started
Location: The Abyssal Hollow
Completion: 0% Cleared
1/1 Boss
"Come on, Doug! We're not paid enough for a Grimm buffet!" I yelled, my pistols ready.
Jaune, shield and sword in hand, shot me a look. "Feels like a side mission in a video game."
I smirked. "Defend the area while he gets to location X. Hold off the horde. Real original."
Doug's voice cut in. "Hold tight, fellas! It's almost there!"
The bulldozer's engine growled to life, a defiant roar against the symphony of Grimm howls that filled the air. Jaune and I exchanged a look, a silent agreement passing between us. We were in this together, come what may.
"Seriously, Doug, is this thing powered by sheer determination or stubbornness?" I asked, my voice light despite the tension that gripped me.
Doug's smile was a slash of white in the dim light. "Little bit of both, my friend. Just hang tight. Hunters like you can handle a bit of Grimm trouble, can't you?"
Jaune's grip on his sword tightened, his knuckles whitening. "Easy for you to say," he muttered.
The bulldozer's headlights cut through the darkness, revealing the red eyes of Grimm that surrounded us. "Finally!" I breathed out, relief fleeting as the reality of our situation settled in.
Doug took the helm, his voice carrying over the engine's rumble. "Hold on, we're taking this baby back to camp!"
The bulldozer trundled forward, its pace agonizingly slow. The growls of Beowolves echoed around us, a haunting chorus to our precarious march. Jaune and I followed, vigilant and ready.
The darkness seemed to swallow us whole, the bulldozer's lights barely holding the shadows at bay. Suddenly, a Beowolf cub sprang from the underbrush, its fangs bared as it lunged at Jaune. He yelped, more in surprise than fear, and I reacted without thought. My pistols barked, and the cub dissolved into mist.
10 XP
10 Lien
I couldn't help but tease Jaune. "Who would've thought the Ursa Major slayer could get startled by a little fluffball?"
He brushed off his armor, a sheepish grin on his face. "Just giving him a fighting chance, you know?"
I arched an eyebrow. "A fighting chance that could've taken a chunk out of you. I can't decide if that makes you brave or just stupid."
"Both?" he offered, and I laughed, the sound sharp in the quiet woods.
But my amusement was cut short as movement in the bushes caught my eye. "Huh? What's that?" I murmured, squinting into the darkness. A faint red glow emerged, and then a Beowolf was upon me, its grip fierce and unyielding.
I was thrown through the air, crashing through a tree and into another. Pain exploded in my chest, my breath stolen by the impact.
Ash HP: 65/125
I gasped for air, my pistols slipping from my grasp. The Beowolf was relentless, slashing at me again and again. Each hit was a blaze of agony, my health dropping with each strike.
Ash HP: 25/125
Desperation clawed at me, and I drew the rusted knife from my pocket, plunging it into the Beowolf's eye. It howled, reeling back, and I seized my chance. I grabbed my last health potion and downed it, the taste gritty and unpleasant.
I called up my inventory, my mind racing.
Inventory:
- Weapons:
- Rusty Knife:
- Damage: 15-25 per hit
- Rust effect: 5 damage per second for 4 seconds random chance.
- Ember's Embrace (Dual pistols) - Rare:
- Damage: 20-40 per shot
- Utility Knife:
- Damage: 15
- Sickles Rare:
- Damage: 60-100
- Health Items:
- Healing Potions: 0
- Restore 50 health
With a swift motion, I drew the sickles, parrying a strike from the Beowolf. I countered, driving one sickle deep into its belly. It thrashed, and I lost my grip on the weapon. As it retreated, I grabbed one of my fallen pistols and fired, ending the creature's life.
I retrieved my other pistol and pulled the sickle from the dissipating Grimm. A mix of melee and ranged seemed wise, so I stowed one pistol and one sickle. Turning back to Jaune, I saw him surrounded by Beowolf cubs, with three adults closing in. I readied myself, dispatching two cubs with my pistol, the gunfire a brief illumination in the encroaching darkness.
The night air was thick with the scent of pine and the growls of Grimm. As the adults focused on Jaune, a whirlwind of claws and teeth rushed me, their blind attacks a desperate attempt to overwhelm.
20 XP
beowolf cub fur
20 Lien
"Dodge this!" I yelled, rolling away from a cub's swipe and leaping up for a Goomba-stomp. The cub burst into dark mist beneath my boots. I twirled, my pistol blazing, and took out two more cubs in a fiery display.
30 XP
beowolf cub fur
30 Lien
Through the chaos, Jaune's skills shone. He decapitated a Beowolf adult with a clean strike. Another one sneaked up behind him, but I opened fire, drawing its attention. My bullets ricocheted off its thick hide, useless.
I was sent flying as a Beowolf body-checked me. Instinct took over; I stabbed my sickle into the ground to stop my slide. Before I could catch my breath, another Beowolf lunged. I dodged and sliced its belly as it passed.
20 XP
Beowolf adult claw
20 Lien
The Beowolf that had hit me charged again, but Jaune's blade sliced through the air, cutting it in half.
Catching my breath, I smirked at Jaune. "Not bad, partner. The Great Ursa Major slayer hasn't lost his touch, huh?"
The Grimm's howl snapped us back to reality. We were falling behind the bulldozer.
"We need to catch up to that scrap bucket!" I shouted, reloading my pistol. More Grimm emerged, ready to face us.
"This is like fighting in a nightmare! They just keep coming!" I yelled, taking aim.
Jaune parried a Beowolf's attack and countered. "Nightmare is right, Ash! We need to clear this path!"
The Beowolves grew more aggressive, their relentless assault trying to break our defenses. The bulldozer's headlights cast snarling faces into sharp relief.
A massive Beowolf lunged at us. Jaune intercepted it with his shield, but the force staggered him. I fired at the beast's hind legs, giving Jaune a chance to recover and slash its neck.
Moonlight filtered through the trees as Beowolf cubs charged. Jaune and I moved together, my pistol firing rapidly to take down two cubs.
20 XP
beowolf cub fur
Beowolf cub claw
20 Lien
"Keep your distance from the little ones; they'll dog pile you!" I warned, dodging a cub's claws.
Jaune parried and struck back with his sword. I covered him with gunfire, watching his back. Then, I felt the ground tremble. A creep burst from the earth, aiming for my arm. I dodged and sliced it in half.
10 XP
Creep Claw
10 Lien
An armored adult Beowolf emerged, agile despite its size. Jaune body-checked it, giving me an opening. I shot at the gaps in its armor. It recovered quickly.
Evolved Beowolf : HP 60/100
"Hit it in the gaps!" I called to Jaune, dodging another swipe.
Jaune deflected the Beowolf's attack and cut off its forearm.
"Doug, speed this thing up!" Jaune yelled. The Beowolf swung wildly at him.
Doug pushed the bulldozer, its engine protesting. We climbed aboard, leaving some Grimm behind, including the armored Beowolf, as we made our way deeper into the woods.
The Beowolf's snarl faded into the woods, leaving behind a silence that was almost as unsettling as its enraged howl. I stood there, my mind racing with questions about the creature's unusual armor. What the hell was that? I've never seen a Beowolf adult armored like that before. It was like something out of a nightmare, not the kind you wake up from, but the kind that follows you into the waking world.
A notification blinked into existence, breaking my train of thought.
Notification:
'If a Grimm lives long enough, they have a chance to evolve into a superior version of their species. The higher the evolution, the smarter and stronger they become, with an increased likelihood of remembering encounters. Each time a Grimm Evolves it gets a skull on its health bar.'
Great, just what we needed—smarter, stronger Grimm with a grudge. I refocused on the task at hand, the remaining Grimm still snapping at our heels. The revelation added a new layer of urgency to our already dangerous predicament.
Doug's voice cut through the tension. "Keep them off us, hunters!" His command was firm, his resolve clear even amidst the chaos. We fought back-to-back, Jaune and I, our combined efforts forming a bulwark against the encroaching darkness. My shots rang out, a staccato rhythm that felled Grimm after Grimm, yet for every one that fell, another took its place.
"This is like a bad Grimm parade," I muttered under my breath, my frustration mounting with each trigger pull.
"A parade? More like a swarm, and we're the main attraction!" Jaune retorted, his shield a blur of motion as he deflected and countered the relentless attacks.
Doug maneuvered the bulldozer with the skill of a seasoned pilot, flattening any Grimm foolish enough to attack from the front. We were a team, a unit working in perfect sync to survive the night.
As we finally reached the camp, the construction workers rallied to our cause, weapons in hand, ready to fend off the Grimm tide. Doug's voice carried over the din, "Almost there!" His eyes never left the dark road ahead, his determination a beacon in the night.
"Keep it up, guys! We've got this!" Jaune's voice was a rallying cry, his sword catching the light as he fought.
The bulldozer broke free from the woods, emerging onto the Countryside Road. The construction workers joined the fray, and together, we pushed back the Grimm. Doug brought the bulldozer to a halt, and for a moment, it seemed we could finally catch our breath.
"Well, that was a scenic detour," I said, the adrenaline slowly ebbing from my veins.
Doug's grin was infectious. "Thanks for the assist, hunters. Now, let's get this road cleared up and those lights shining bright!"
But the respite was short-lived. A Boarbatusk, a rolling juggernaut of bone and fury, crashed into the bulldozer, sending it tumbling back into the woods.
"Seriously?" I exclaimed, my pistols at the ready. "Can't we catch a break?"
Jaune's sigh was heavy with fatigue. "Guess the Grimm decided the parade wasn't over yet."
I hurried over to the overturned bulldozer, the lights still casting an eerie glow through the trees. "Doug, you alright?" I called out, concern lacing my voice.
He emerged, a little worse for wear but unbroken. "Just a bit shaken. I'll go grab the jack to get this thing back on its feet. Be back in a moment."
I nodded, watching him disappear into the camp. Turning to Jaune, I said, "Doug's getting the jack. We'll have this bulldozer upright again soon. Keep an eye out for any surpri- Duck!" My warning came just in time, pushing Jaune out of the way as the Boarbatusk rolled toward us again.
My shots did nothing but spark off its bone armor, and the impact sent me flying into a tree.
Ash HP 5/125
Jaune helped me to my feet, and together we faced the Boarbatusk's next charge. Jaune's shield met the creature's roll, grinding it to a halt. I saw my chance—the Boarbatusk's vulnerable stomach was exposed.
"Jaune, throw it up!" I yelled. He heaved with his shield, sending the creature airborne. I took aim and fired, my pistols finally finding their mark. The Boarbatusk fell, defeated.
Boarbatusks - Level 3
HP 0/150
25 XP
- Boarbatusk bone plate
- Grimm Crystal
25 Lien
Doug returned with the jack, missing the final act. "Seems like I missed the grand finale," he said, a hint of regret in his voice. "I'll get this bulldozer back on its feet."
Progress Update
Location: The Abyssal Hollow
Completion: 50% Cleared
0/1 Boss
As Doug set to work, Jaune and I kept watch. The overturned vehicle's glow cast long shadows among the trees, and the air was thick with the residue of battle.
"Tonight just keeps getting crazier," Jaune remarked, his gaze never leaving the treeline. "First, a midnight jog through Grimm territory, and now we're dealing with acrobatic Boarbatusks. Classic Huntsman initiation, right?" His words were light, but the tension in his stance told a different story.
The smirk lingered on my lips as I holstered my pistols. "Unpredictability," I mused aloud, "it's the spice of life—or at least, it keeps life interesting. And painful, if you count the tree landings."
Doug, with a few deft movements, had the bulldozer standing on its wheels again. He stepped back, hands on his hips, and nodded with satisfaction. "Back in business," he announced, a trace of pride in his voice.
"Good work, Doug," Jaune said, clapping him on the back. "How long till we reach that cave?"
Doug checked his watch. "About fifteen minutes, more or less. It's not far."
I caught Jaune's eye, a silent conversation passing between us. "Doug, once we're at the cave, will you need us to escort you back to the village? Just to ensure everything's smooth?"
Doug pondered for a moment. "Shouldn't need to. The road's clear past the cave—it's mostly uphill, and Grimm don't usually go there. But we might need help getting the electrician back. Depends if he's done in the cave."
I clapped my hands, a signal to get moving. "So, we might be escorting the electrician back. Got it."
Doug nodded. "Right. We'll deal with that when it comes up. For now, let's hit the road."
With the bulldozer operational, we climbed aboard. Doug settled into the driver's seat, and Jaune and I found spots to brace ourselves for the ride. The cave entrance glowed in the distance, a beacon in the night.
The bulldozer's engine roared to life, and Jaune and I took our positions, ready for any Grimm that dared approach. The headlights cut through the darkness, revealing the uneven road ahead. Every now and then, a lone Grimm would venture too close, and we'd dispatch it with ease.
The air was charged with tension as we advanced, the occasional growl of a Grimm was a stark reminder of the dangers that lurked in the shadows. Despite this, there was a sense of unity, a shared resolve to reach our destination safely.
As we neared the cave, a lantern's glow caught our attention. A makeshift campsite sat by the roadside, a sleeping bag nestled near a dying campfire.
Doug parked the bulldozer and we disembarked, scanning the area for any sign of Grimm. The woods were dark and foreboding, the campfire's light casting dancing shadows around us.
A noise from the campsite drew our attention, and we saw a figure in a blue jumpsuit emerge, an SMG in hand.
"Whoa, easy!" I called out, hands raised. "We're with Doug."
The man, Volt, hesitated, then lowered his weapon slightly. "Sorry," he said. "It's been a long night."
"No worries," I replied. "We're just glad you're okay."
Volt nodded, looking weary. "I've been trying to finish the wiring, but the Grimm have been relentless."
Jaune surveyed the campsite. "How much longer with the wiring?"
Volt yawned. "Not much. Just need to hook up the generator."
Doug nodded. "Once you're done, we'll head back. But first, let's get that generator running."
Volt agreed, but his brow creased with concern. "Before we power up, I need to check the dust regulator terminals and the generator. Any damage could cause serious problems."
Doug crossed his arms. "Okay. Jaune and Ash will go with you. I'll stay with the Dozer. Let's get those lights on."
I followed Jaune and Volt into the cave, the dim light casting eerie shadows on the walls. Doug tested the radio connection with Volt, his cigarette glowing in the dark.
As we moved deeper into the cave, Volt frowned at the dust pipes. "This isn't right," he muttered.
"What's wrong?" Jaune asked.
"The dust flow's too slow," Volt replied. "Something's off."
Doug's voice crackled over the radio. "What's the status, Volt?"
Volt responded, "The dust flow's slow. It's affecting the lights. I need to investigate."
Doug's tone was firm. "Keep me posted. We can't have delays."
Volt's fingers were a blur, each movement precise as he navigated the labyrinth of wires and circuits within the dust regulator terminal. I watched, my heart pounding in my chest, as he worked to unravel the mystery of the sluggish dust flow. Jaune stood beside me, his expression etched with concern. "We need to figure this out fast," he whispered.
I nodded, my gaze fixed on Volt. The weight of our predicament pressed down on me, a silent, oppressive force as we waited for him to diagnose the issue. Our safety, our very lives, depended on his success.
With a swift motion, Volt opened the hatch of the terminal, exposing the complex network inside. We held our breath, the tension thick in the air. Time seemed to slow as Volt examined each component, his focus unwavering.
Then, with a surge of activity, Volt sprang into action. He activated the terminal, and a wave of energy pulsed through the cave, the machinery humming to life. A fleeting moment of triumph washed over us, but it was quickly shattered by the distant howls of Grimm.
Doug's voice crackled over the radio, urgent and strained. "Grimm are trying to get in! I'm holding them off, but some are getting through! Stay alert!"
The sound of shotgun blasts and Grimm growls filled the radio, a stark reminder of the battle raging outside. Jaune and I exchanged a glance, readying ourselves for what was to come.
"Jaune, hold this position," I instructed, my voice calm despite the rush of adrenaline. "I'll take point further in."
Jaune nodded, his shield raised against the darkness. Volt took his place at the cave entrance, his weapon ready.
As the Grimm descended upon us, we sprang into action. I dashed forward, my pistols firing with deadly precision. Each shot echoed through the cave, a testament to our resolve.
A Beowolf cub lunged from the shadows, its claws aimed at me. I sidestepped, firing a shot into its skull. It dissolved into mist, the numbers flashing before my eyes.
10 XP
10 Lien
But the battle was far from over. Five Beowolf adults emerged, their presence a clear danger. I focused, aiming for their vital spots. The first fell as my bullet struck its eye, blinding it. I pivoted, taking down another with a shot to the heart.
The chaos around me was intense, but I remained focused. I sliced through the air, severing a third Beowolf's leg, then dispatched it with a shot to the head.
Another Beowolf leapt at me from behind. I reacted swiftly, firing into its stomach, blood spraying as it fell.
I turned to face the final Beowolf, my aim true. The shot pierced its chest, and I closed in, my sickle ending its life with a decisive blow.
100 XP
100 Lien
I smiled, the adrenaline surging as I cleared the wave of Grimm. I scanned the area, but no more enemies appeared.
Volt's voice rang out. "I did it. The terminal's fixed. The dust flow is semi-restored, but we need to keep moving. The second terminal by the generator is next. If we can fix it, we'll have full power."
We pressed on, following the pipes deeper into the cave. The air grew heavier, the anticipation palpable as we navigated the tunnels.
Rounding a bend, the generator's faint glow appeared, a hopeful sign amidst the darkness. But a sense of foreboding washed over me, the hairs on my neck standing on end.
"This looks like the place," Jaune said, apprehension in his voice. "Let's get that terminal running before more Grimm show up."
Volt nodded, his focus on the generator. "Right. Let's do this."
We approached the generator, its hum filling the cave. Volt worked the controls, starting the machine.
The generator rumbled to life, its light casting shadows on the walls.
But our relief was short-lived. A roar echoed through the cave, chilling me to the bone. Jaune and I braced ourselves.
Suddenly, a massive arm burst from a cavern, striking Volt with incredible force. He flew across the cave, bloodied and still.
"Volt!" I cried, rushing to his side as Jaune guarded us.
But then, a colossal Beowolf appeared, its form adorned with fire dust crystals and rock-like armor. It towered over us, a monstrous harbinger of doom.
Rocksnarl - Level 10
HP 1600/1600
Multiple Debuffs active.
- Slowness: This debuff reduces Rocksnarl's movement speed by 30%. It affects how quickly the boss can react and move during battle.
- Confusion: When afflicted with confusion, Rocksnarl has a 50% chance of missing it's attack.
As the monstrous Grimm roared in rage, Jaune and I exchanged a determined glance, our resolve steeling as we prepared to face our greatest challenge yet. With a nod of silent understanding, we sprang into action, our weapons at the ready as we prepared to take down Rocksnarl and protect our fallen comrade.
As the monstrous Rocksnarl loomed before us, its massive form adorned with impenetrable rock armor, I wasted no time in unleashing a barrage of shots from my pistols. But to my dismay, the bullets merely ricocheted off its formidable defenses, leaving the Grimm unscathed.
Undeterred, Jaune charged forward, his sword flashing in the dim light as he aimed a series of powerful slashes at Rocksnarl's armored hide. But despite his best efforts, the blade failed to find purchase, each strike repelled by the creature's impenetrable defenses.
Rocksnarl retaliated with a swipe of its massive clawed hand, sending Jaune tumbling to the ground with a grunt of pain. As the Grimm loomed over him, poised to deliver a fatal blow, I knew I had to act fast.
With a quick and precise aim, I targeted one of the glowing fire dust crystals embedded in the Grimm's rocky armor. As my bullets found their mark, the crystal erupted into a shower of fiery energy, causing chunks of rock to splinter and fall away taking off 50 HP, exposing the vulnerable skin beneath.
With a triumphant roar, Jaune seized the opportunity, plunging his sword into the newly exposed flesh with all his might. Rocksnarl howled in agony as Jaune's blade found its mark, carving deep gashes into the creature's hide taking off 100 HP.
But even as Rocksnarl staggered under the combined assault, it refused to yield, its primal rage fueling its relentless onslaught. With each passing moment, the battle grew more intense, our every move countered by the beast's unyielding strength.
I aimed my pistols at the other crystals adorning the Grimm's body, unleashing a barrage of shots in an attempt to weaken its defenses. The crystals exploded upon impact taking another 50 HP, sending shards of fiery energy scattering across the cavern floor.
Seizing the opportunity again, Jaune charged forward, his sword gleaming in the dim light as he struck at the Grimm's exposed skin with relentless fury. Each blow landed with precision, carving deep gashes into the creature's flesh as it roared in pain and frustration as it lost another 100 HP.
But Rocksnarl was not so easily defeated, its towering form swatting Jaune aside with a powerful swipe of its clawed hand. He tumbled across the ground, blood running down his face he struggled to regain his footing.
With a grim determination, I focused my aim on the Grimm's exposed weak spots, my pistols blazing as I unleashed a barrage of shots with deadly accuracy. Rocksnarl staggered under the onslaught, its massive form wavering as it struggled to maintain its footing as it lost 60 HP.
But even as the Grimm's health bar dwindled, it continued to fight with relentless ferocity, its roars echoing through the cavern like a primal cry of defiance.
As Rocksnarl let out a deafening roar, a wave of red energy surged forth from its monstrous form, enveloping Jaune and me in a paralyzing grip of fear. For a fleeting moment, time seemed to stand still as we stood frozen in terror, the overwhelming power of the Grimm threatening to overwhelm us.
But our fear was short-lived, as Rocksnarl suddenly transformed, spikes erupting from its back as it curled into a ball and began to roll with terrifying speed across the cavern. Stone walls and pillars crumbled in its wake as it careened through the chamber, leaving destruction in its path.
With lightning-fast reflexes, Jaune sprang into action, rushing over to where Volt lay and hoisting him to safety before Rocksnarl could reach him. Meanwhile, I dodged and weaved between the crumbling debris, narrowly avoiding the creature's devastating attacks as I sought an opportunity to strike.
As Rocksnarl rolled towards me once more, gathering momentum for another devastating assault, I braced myself for the impact. But at the last moment, the Grimm leaped into the air, red energy crackling around its form as it prepared to unleash its most devastating attack yet.
Thinking quickly, I dove out of the way, narrowly avoiding the full force of Rocksnarl's assault. But even as I rolled to my feet, I felt the searing heat of its energy blast wash over me, sending shards of energy scattering like broken glass as I was thrown backward with a cry of pain.
Ash HP 0/125
But even in the midst of my own agony, I saw an opportunity. With a defiant shout, Jaune leaped onto a nearby pile of rubble, using it as a springboard to launch himself at Rocksnarl's exposed back taking off 100 HP.
With a mighty thrust, Jaune plunged his sword deep into the creature's flesh, eliciting a roar of pain as Rocksnarl reeled from the unexpected attack. Seizing the opening, I unleashed a barrage of shots at the Grimm's exposed stomach, each bullet finding its mark with deadly accuracy as all 16 bullets hit him taking off 360 HP.
Rocksnarl - Level 10
HP 780/1600
With a final, desperate lunge, Rocksnarl tumbled off the edge of the cavern, its monstrous form disappearing into the depths below as its cry echoed through the chamber.
As the dust settled and the echoes of battle faded, Jaune and I found ourselves exhausted, but victorious. We took a moment to catch our breath, sitting down amidst the remnants of the cavern's destruction.
"Phew, that was intense," Jaune said, wiping sweat from his brow. "I never thought we'd face something like that."
I nodded, still trying to process the adrenaline-fueled chaos we had just endured. "Yeah, that was... something else."
As we sat there, a sense of unease began to settle over me. I never got any XP for that. I didn't even get any notification for the Grimm nest or boss either.
A sinking feeling settled in the pit of my stomach as I slowly got to my feet. "I need to check something," I said, my voice tense with apprehension.
Making my way over to the edge of the cavern where Rocksnarl had fallen, I peered over the edge, my heart sinking as I saw the Grimm impaled on a rock below, still alive but barely hanging on.
Rocksnarl - Level 10
HP 300/1600
Without a word, I raised my pistols and began firing down at the wounded Grimm, each shot finding its mark as I rained down a barrage of bullets until the creature lay motionless, its body riddled with bullet holes.
As Rocksnarl disintegrated into mist, leaving only its rocky armor behind, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over me, as the adrenaline of battle began to fade.
Rocksnarl Drops:
- Granite Shard: A rare crafting material that can be used to create powerful weapons or armor imbued with the strength of Rocksnarl.
- Rocksnarl Claw: A sharp and sturdy claw from Rocksnarl that can be fashioned into deadly close-combat weapon.
- Petrified Essence: A mysterious essence extracted from Rocksnarl's stone armor. It has potent magical properties and can be used in enchanting rituals.
- Grimm Crystal: A rare crystal infused with the essence of Grimm. It can be used to enhance aura abilities or unlock unique Grimm-related abilities.
- Rocksnarl Trophy: A symbol of victory, this trophy can be displayed to showcase the defeat of Rocksnarl.
- 400 XP
- 400 lien
Progress Update
Location: The Abyssal Hollow
Completion: 100% Cleared
0/1 Boss
Rewards for completion
- Heavy attack: charge a weapon with the system's energy given it an otherworldly buff to its damage.
- Grimm numbers reduced in the area.
- 500 lien
- 500 XP
- Title: Grimm Exterminator Novice
As I stood there, staring down at the wounded Grimm, a sense of urgency gripped me. Rocksnarl may have been defeated, but there was still work to be done.
"Hey, what's going on?" Jaune's voice broke through my thoughts, bringing me back to the present.
"There's something I need to check," I replied, my voice tense with apprehension.
Without waiting for a response, I made my way over to where Volt lay, still unconscious but thankfully alive. Jaune nodded in understanding as he picked up our fallen comrade, concern etched on his face.
I quickly scanned the area and noticed a faint yellow waypoint blinking on my HUD, indicating the location of a chest hidden behind one of the walls knocked down by Rocksnarl.
"Hey Jaune, is Volt okay?" I asked, turning to my friend as he cradled our injured teammate.
"Yeah, he's stable," Jaune replied, his gaze never leaving Volt's unconscious form.
"Good," I said, my attention turning back to the waypoint on my HUD. "I think I saw a something over there. I'm going to check it out."
Jaune nodded as he reached for Volt's radio, informing Doug about Volt's condition and instructing him to meet us outside.
As I approached the chest, it dissolved into light and faded away, leaving behind a collection of valuable supplies for the blacksmith and his tools.
Blacksmith tools
Box of Metals
- 500 lien
- 500 XP
With the loot secured, I hurried back to Jaune, making sure to collect any fire dust crystals I spotted along the way. Together, we made our way out of the cavern.
As Jaune hoisted Volt over his shoulder, the weight of our recent battle hung heavy in the air, each step echoing with the weight of our thoughts.
"I've never seen a Grimm like that before," Jaune remarked, his voice tinged with a mix of awe and uncertainty. "I didn't even know Grimm could grow that big. Have you ever seen anything like that before, Ash?"
I paused for a moment, recalling the few battles I'd fought. "No," I admitted quietly. "I've only ever encountered Beowolves and Creeps. But damn, that was..." I trailed off, catching myself before I could say "fun," the memory of Volt's injury sobering me in an instant. "Interesting," I corrected myself, clearing my throat awkwardly.
Jaune nodded, understanding the weight of our chosen path as hunters. "You must have faced things like that all the time in your training," I remarked, trying to steer the conversation away from the darker thoughts that threatened to overwhelm us.
Jaune averted his eyes, his expression clouded with memories of his own. "School doesn't usually have us going after Grimm hordes or whatever that rock one was," he admitted. "It's mostly just training on how to use a weapon and fight, you know?" He paused, as if considering his next words carefully. "But um, I've never really been good at paying attention in those schools. Between you and me, it was a miracle that I even got into an Academy, let alone Beacon. But I always find a way," he added, a hint of determination creeping into his voice as he looked off into the distance, lost in thought.
I watched Jaune silently, confused by the sudden determination in his face. Before I could respond, the headlights of Doug's Dozer pierced through the darkness, signaling our escape from the depths of the cavern.
"Doug!" I called out, waving my arms to get his attention as the Dozer rumbled closer, its reassuring presence a beacon of hope in the darkness.
As we approached the Dozer, relief washed over us, only to be replaced by a new wave of tension as we saw claw marks mar its once pristine surface. With a sinking feeling in my chest, I hurried over and swung open the door, only to be greeted by the barrel of a shotgun pointed straight at my face.
Reacting on instinct, I dove out of the way just in time as the shotgun discharged, the deafening blast ringing in my ears. As my hearing slowly returned, I could hear Doug's frantic shouts, his voice laced with panic and fear.
"The Grimm'll never take me alive! Never!" Doug's eyes darted around wildly, his panic palpable as he struggled to make sense of the chaos around him.
"Doug, it's us!" Jaune's voice cut through the chaos, his tone urgent as he held Volt in his arms. "We've got Volt. He needs a doctor."
Slowly, Doug poked his head out from behind the door, his eyes wide with surprise and relief as he took in the sight of Jaune holding Volt and me picking myself up from the ground.
"Sorry," Doug muttered sheepishly, his earlier panic giving way to embarrassment. "The last Grimm horde kinda freaked me out. They were running all over the Dozer like a horde of ants."
"Let's not waste any time," Doug said, his tone firm as he motioned for us to hop in. "We need to get going."
Jaune climbed onto the Dozer, cradling Volt gently in his arms, while I grabbed onto the side, still feeling a bit shaken from the close call. As we started moving, I reached for the last health potion in my inventory, intending to use it to replenish my own health.
But then I hesitated, realizing that Volt needed it more than I did. Turning to the system, I asked if the potion would work on an other people, and to my relief, it confirmed that it would.
With trembling hands, I made my way over to Jaune and handed him the potion. "This should help with Volt's injuries," I said softly, my voice barely above a whisper. "He just has to drink it."
Satisfied that Volt would receive the care he needed, I retreated to a corner of the Dozer and settled down, exhaustion washing over me as I relaxed. My body needed some rest after the last couple of days of trouble.
Lying there, I caught my breath, gazing up at the stars peeking through the forest canopy. The cool night air soothed my aching body. After a few moments, curiosity crept in—what quests remained for me?
"Open system," I whispered, and the red and white system HUD materialized before my eyes.
SYSTEM STATS, HOST: Ash (Middle/Last Name: N/A)
- Inventory: Weapons/Armor/Items/Consumables
- Quest/Mission/Objectives
- Trophies and Milestones
- Lien/XP/Skill Points
- Abilities/Skills/Magic/Combat Styles
I studied the menu, committing it to memory. I was accustomed to heading straight for the Inventory, so this new layout intrigued me. Each rectangular box was outlined in red with matching text, set against a stark white background—six boxes in total. My curiosity piqued at the Magic tab, though I doubted it held anything for me, given my lack of magical abilities.
As I navigated the interface, it was no surprise to find the Magic section grayed out, marked 'N/A', just like the Abilities. But, curiously, the Skills and Combat Style sections were active.
I initiated the Skills first, and a new screen emerged, displaying a skill tree shrouded in gray. Suddenly, one of the nodes began to tremble, and the gray facade shattered like glass, unveiling my first skill: 'Heavy Attack.'
Beneath it, a short video played, featuring a mannequin armed with a sword. It stood motionless as red energy gathered along the blade. With a moment's pause, it cleaved downward, slicing through a meter-thick stone block. Another video followed, this time the mannequin brandished a revolver. The weapon glowed red, and it took aim at a four-meter-tall mech. After a brief charge, a ball of red energy erupted from the revolver, boring a four-foot hole straight through the target.
The skill, it seemed, lacked a cooldown, requiring a mere two-second charge. Yet, its potency remained unclear. Beneath the skill, three small circles suggested potential upgrades, though the video likely showcased the skill at its peak. I contemplated testing it then and there...
My gaze shifted to Jaune, seated near Volt, while Doug concentrated on the road.
I'd surely appear deranged, firing into the sky without cause, especially if they could witness the red energy of the heavy shot.
Running my fingers through my rusty blonde hair and down my neck, I returned to the Combat Styles tab.
Upon opening, three glowing circles appeared, each depicting a pistol, a sickle, and an emblem where both were crossed. A notification surfaced:
'Combat Styles presents a list of combat techniques you are proficient in and to what extent. When wielding a weapon, the system imparts the fundamentals, ensuring that even if the host has never before handled a sword or bow, they can at least swing or loose an arrow without stumbling or damaging the weapon.'
As I lay there, the system's intricacies began to crystallize in my mind. To unlock new combat styles, I realized I needed to learn the basics first. Only then would the system grant me the chance to unlock and enhance them. Similarly, completing missions like eradicating Grimm nests seemed to be the key to acquiring new skills—and that's what the skill points were for. But leveling up? That was still a puzzle. What did it actually do?
In response to my thoughts, another system notification flickered into existence:
'Levels are awarded when a host meets certain criteria. Then, the host is granted levels based on their mastery of these criteria, which varies depending on the host's species. Humans can advance up to level 5. Faunus, with their enhanced senses and additional appendages, can reach level 6. Grimm, due to their mutable qualities and adaptability, can surpass level 10. Boss Grimm are always at level 10 because of their mutations, although their difficulty may differ.'
That explanation was somewhat baffling. And what exactly was a Faunus? I decided to shelve that question for later. What I really wanted to understand was why the difficulty of a level 10 Grimm could vary.
The system continued:
'Grimm receive a health and damage boost with each new level. However, speed, intelligence, and combat potential are not distributed equally. For instance, Rocksnarl, a mid-tier boss, had significant combat potential thanks to his abilities. His mutations and upgrades were evident in his size and the rock-like armor encasing him. But he had been dormant within that cave for years, which led to debuffs upon awakening, compounded by the fire crystals. So, while a level 10 Grimm may receive enhancements, they can also suffer debuffs, causing each Grimm boss's difficulty to vary more than other species.'
Relief washed over me, knowing that Rocksnarl's debuffs were probably the only reason we all survived the encounter. The thought of facing him at full strength sent a shiver down my spine, one I quickly tried to dismiss.
As I scrolled through the system, I reached back to soothe the persistent ache in my back—the only part of me that still throbbed with pain. When I brought my hand back into view, it was smeared with blood.
"Shit," I muttered under my breath, my voice barely a whisper. I twisted around for a better look at the damage.
The wall where I had been leaning was splattered with blood, a stark reminder of the battle's toll on my body. I grimaced, pulling my jacket around to inspect it. The fabric was torn and tattered, the back shredded. Yet, amidst the ruin, red particles danced and converged, slowly mending the material as if by magic.
"OK, no sleeping, gotta stay awake," I muttered to myself. The thought of falling asleep while bleeding out was terrifying. I tried to clean the blood off the dozer with my tattered jacket, but it only smeared. I needed to downplay the severity before alerting the others to my "problem." The state of my jacket suggested Rocksnarl's heavy attack was the culprit.
Slipping my red jacket back on, the blood was hardly noticeable unless one was really looking. I stood up and leaned towards Doug, raising my hand to knock on the glass, but then I saw the blood on it. A nervous glance around, and I quickly wiped it on my black pants, ensuring only my front faced him. I didn't want to cause panic; I just needed him to drive faster.
"Hey, uh, Doug, how long until we get to town?" I asked, tapping my foot nervously.
"15 minutes, I think," Doug replied half-heartedly, driving casually with one hand on the wheel.
"Ah, good, good. Any chance we can get there faster?"
"Maybe. Why are you asking?"
"Eh, no reason. Just got a few cuts and hits from the Grimm, and I'm in a hurry to get them looked at."
"Don't worry about it. You won't have any issues by the time we get there. Plus, that stuff you gave Volt helped a lot—the bleeding stopped," Doug said dismissively.
"OK, I think I may have undersold it. I need to get there ASAP, so if you can go faster, do it!" I insisted sternly. Doug caught a glimpse of my neck, the smeared blood barely in sight, and he sat up straight.
"Ash, are you OK!?" Doug asked, concern edging his voice as he glanced over, slightly panicked.
"Yeah, yeah, I am. Just put the pedal to the metal," I assured him as I retreated to my original spot, just out of his line of sight.
"Sure thing. You just rest up, kid," I heard Doug say as I waited, drumming my fingers on my thighs to stay awake.
Author's Note:
Name: Ash
Level: 1
Class: Unknown
Lien: 2,085
Skill point: 6
XP: 535/900
Health: 0/120 (5)
Mana: 0/80
Aura: 0/10
Health potions 0/5