A/N: I'm grateful for those who have given the time to write their reviews on this story and I will first like to answer and clarify some of your questions, specifically a couple of you guys. I Hope these answers satisfy you guys.
Kreceir: I'm aware that its pretty system heavy and I don't blame you for it, really. But that's usual how I often write my Gamer fics. I understand it can be annoying or a slog to read as you say, but can't simply take it away as easily as I'll more or less still write the system into the story as it is apart of the MC/Hiroshi Kokoro's ability as [The Gamer]. Just know that I acknowledge your criticism and that I fully understand if you wish to not read this anymore. I'm not forcing you and you're free to write any criticism and opinions here as do others as well.
sid99: I'm glad you enjoy the story. Anyway, for the MC being a bit of an idiot, well, it could likely be him becoming a [Fairy (Touhou Project)] here in Gensokyo or something, which could be possible. As for the MC speaking his commands of the [System] out loud in the open, there's a couple of things with that. For one, it's the Forest of Magic which literally has some miasma from the abundantly grown fungi that puts even the Yokai into discomfort, driving away a majority of them away the forest. Of course, there may be some who can resist the miasma, but the MC isn't too worried of at this point. Plus, he's been going into his [IDs] to train. Second, regarding the [Immortality]. It was indeed, more or less intentional as hell. I mean, if I was gonna make him immortal, might as well give him some kind of penalty or drawback should he actually get killed. And third, him missing his home won't really be a recurring thing, only sometimes. I hope I managed to satisfy your questions here and I much appreciate your words, regardless. Thanks, man!
Anyway, let the story continue once more!
Disclaimer:
The following is a non-profit fan-based work. The Gamer Manhwa and Touhou Project are owned by WEBTOON and Sung Sang-Young as well as ZUN and Team Shanghai Alice respectively.
Other fictional works are all owned by their respective creators and parties. Please support the releases.
And with that enjoy!
"Speaking/Speech"
'Thoughts'
*Sound Effects*
The Gamer ability
[Skills, Items, Etc]
[Opening Song: [Snow Fairy] - [Fairy Tail]
Chapter 2: The Prelude of Fae Encounters!
Thursday, July 3, 2003 (118/6/5)
As the few warm rays of sunlight filter into the Forest of Magic, I find myself waking up and slowly standing up, letting out a small yawn as I stretch my cute little form for a bit.
This marks my third day here in Gensokyo, and it still feels sort of surreal, but I'm starting to get used to it at this point.
Anyway, I looked around and thought about what to do for the day. Usually, so far, I would be training my current abilities. Speaking of which, I should probably start figuring out the rest of my [Magic]. But first, I raise my hand to the air and cast [ID Create], feeling the magical power take shape as I look up and see the morning blue sky shine brightly for a moment and feel the whole world change.
The sounds of the Forest of Magic abruptly vanish, leaving only silence as I've transported myself into the [Empty ID]. The whole place looks the same as the original Forest of Magic, but without the usual chirping of birds and strange sounds, as zero life can be found here within the [Instant Dungeon]. It honestly gives off a sort of creepy vibe due to the lack of wildlife and such.
However, there also aren't any threats from enemies to attack me here. It's pretty much safe and normally can't be entered easily, unless they have some ability that could allow them to enter this place, like manipulating space or something that lets them somehow slip right in. This is mainly due to [IDs] being more or less separate dimensions, essentially the shadows of the real world or reality. Whatever the hell that means, exactly.
I mean, they also went by [Protected Spaces] and [Illusion Barriers]. In the original manhwa, the main point of them was to allow the characters to use their supernatural abilities without limitations. But enough about that; I came here for one thing, and that's training my [Magic].
I would start off with [Water Magic], and honestly, from what I've seen in the media, it has the potential to possibly be one of my most versatile and powerful forms of magic, as water can be way more dangerous than some may think.
I would first bring up both of my hands, drawing mana into them as I felt magical power begin to form within my palms. Next, I closed my eyes and tried to bring out my [Water Magic], tapping into the innate [Water Affinity] within me. I then held both hands close as I did my best, visualizing a small ball of water between my palms.
It felt like second nature as I could feel the magic within my hands transforming with ease. Slowly, I opened my eyes and witnessed it in awe as water began to form and manifest within my palms, creating a rather small sphere made of water, one the size of a baseball. I watched, moving it about as it hovered just above my hands.
Curious, I did a little experimenting as I tried to form the small ball of water into various shapes, watching it take on a cube-like shape, a pyramid, a rectangular one, and so on. It felt so easy that I couldn't help but smile.
[Water Magic] has Leveled Up! 1 =} 2
Feeling excited, a thought came to mind as I focused on the small mass of water in my hands once more. I watched as it split off into five smaller orbs, the size of golf balls. I then tried applying intense pressure to each one, aiming them at a nearby tree and launching them forward, firing them with such force and speed comparable to a gun's bullets as they struck their target. They punched through the hard wooden stem of the tree, leaving behind five small holes from where they struck, and I watched with a big smile on my adorable face.
You've created new [Spell: [Water Bullet]!
-[Water Bullet] (Active) Cost: 6MP - The user fires small, golf ball-sized bullets made of water that are launched with great force and speed. The user can simultaneously fire up to (5 x Skill Level) water bullets all at once. It deals water damage equal to 175% of INT x Skill Level. The speed of the bullets is up to (INT x Skill Level) mph. It costs 6MP for each bullet.
However, I wasn't done just yet and swiped away the notification. This time, I thrust my hand forward, summoning ten more [Water Bullets] and launched them all straight at the tree once more. I watched as the bullets began tearing through the hard wooden bark, punching out from behind the tree and leaving inch-sized holes as it soon fell down with a resounding *Thud!*.
Hoo~! Wow! That's a lot of damage. Of course, I didn't stop and proceeded to do target practice with the surrounding trees all around me from where I stood. I took to the air, my silver-cloud wings manifesting from my back as I flew up and began firing a barrage of ten [Water Bullets] per second, doing my best to aim and fire while flying. But most importantly, I was having fun as well, with a confident smile on my cute little face.
However, I wasn't simply shooting bullets. No, I also went ahead and started attempting bullet patterns, forming simple patterns such as streams and widespread arcs of water bullets, and many more basic ones. But why stop there?
[Water Magic] has Leveled Up thrice! 2 =} 5
[Water Affinity] has reached Level 2!
As I kept flying and practicing my magic, I could feel the increase in both my Affinity and [Water Magic] growing as I continued firing even more water bullets and unleashing greater damage to the surrounding area within the [Empty ID]. I wasn't worried about running out of Mana as I continued firing more barrages of water bullets. Not only that, I also threw in other spells into the mix, firing [Thunderbolts], [Air Blades], and [Spinning Wind Arrows], bringing even more destruction to the forest scenery as trees were torn, shot, and scorched by the barrage of multiple projectiles.
A while later, my constant barrage finally came to a halt as I looked down upon the devastation brought about from above, feeling slightly out of breath. Clusters of trees had been razed, laid to ruin. Dozens upon dozens of trees had fallen, some scorched and burnt, while branches and pieces of broken wood lay rendered and torn to the ground. It honestly left me stunned, yet it also brought a sense of pride. I couldn't help but form a proud grin on my face, satisfied at seeing my handiwork along with what came afterwards.
Through constant flight and usage of your Magic, you have gained: 5 DEX, 5 INT, and 5 WIS!
[Mana Manipulation] has Leveled Up twice! 21 =} 23
[Wind Magic] has Leveled Up thrice! 9 =} 12
[Lightning Magic] has Leveled Up thrice! 7 =} 10
[Water Magic] has Leveled Up thrice! 5 =} 8
[Danmaku (Touhou Project)] has Leveled Up twice! 25 =} 27
[Wind Affinity] has reached Level 4!
[Lightning Affinity] has reached Level 5!
[Water Affinity] has reached Level 3!
I promptly allowed my body to sit down on the ground as I slightly panted. It felt tiring to use a lot of my magic, especially to such a degree.
Not only had my [Water Magic] skill improved, but so had my other Magic-based [Skills] and [Danmaku (Touhou Project)]. My [Affinities] had also improved, further increasing the effectiveness of my elemental [Spells].
I brought up my [Inventory] and took out my [Short Wooden Sword]. A thought popped into my mind as I recalled a certain [Skill] from the original Manhwa. I then walked up to one of the trees that weren't destroyed by my deforestation stunt and attempted to strike it hard.
I took a deep breath, wooden blade held up and ready to strike as I let out a fierce cry and swung my blade with as much force as I could muster. It struck the tree. I did this two more times before finally seeing the new [Skill] I'd acquired, a smile gracing my face.
Through a special action, you've gained [Skill: [Power Strike]!
[Power Strike] (Active) Level: 1 - EXP: 0% - Cost: 10SP
Description: A skill that allows the user to strike the target with strong force.
-Can be used armed and unarmed.
-Increase chances of Critical Hits by 15%.
-Increase physical damage by 10% x Skill Level.
With that, I then proceeded to improve it as I kept swinging and using [Power Strike], hitting the tree repeatedly until—
*Snap!*
—my wooden sword broke apart in half, and the blade now lay on the ground next to the tree while I still held its hilt in my hand. Damn it!
[Power Strike] has Leveled Up twice! 1 =} 3
Your [Short Wooden Sword] has broken apart!
"Fucking fantastic. Now, what?" I muttered, annoyance and frustration in my tone as I picked up the bladed half of my sword in my other hand. I looked down at the short wooden blade held in both my hands, now broken into two halves, wondering what to do.
Giving it some thought, as if a light bulb had suddenly shone brightly within my mind, another idea popped into my head as I decided to do some experimentation with [Mana Manipulation]. This time, I began drawing out the familiar feeling of my Mana, watching as bluish energy started to manifest between both of my hands. I then concentrated and focused on changing its shape as I slowly started molding it into the form of a sword, more specifically, a rapier.
I witnessed the magical energy shaping and forming itself into a double-edged blade, which was 41 inches long, with an acute point and an elaborate guard as I held the newly formed rapier of Mana in my right hand, staring at it in awe and fascination.
You've created new [Spell: [Mana Rapier]!
[Mana Rapier] (Active) - Cost: MP Varies - The user creates a rapier sword made of Mana to be wielded in combat, designed for cut-and-thrust fencing with progressively complex techniques. Can be wielded by hand or can float and moved by the user's will. Create swords of Mana up to or equal to Skill Level. Each sword inflicts magical damage equal to 200% of (ATK INT) x Skill Level, or when wielded is 200% of ((STR ATK) INT) x Skill Level. Each sword has an ATK of 200% of Skill Level. Each sword has a durability of 200% of (INT x Skill Level). The cost to cast and maintain each sword is 50 per minute.
After giving it a few swings, it felt pretty light and strong as I cast [Observe] on the magically conjured blade.
[Sword: [Mana Rapier] - ATK: 46/DUR: 2024/2024
Description: A single-handed rapier of Mana made through [Mana Manipulation]. Created by [The Gamer: [Hiroshi Kokoro].
Type: One-Handed Sword: Rapier
-Can be wielded by hand or can float and moved by the user's will.
-Each sword inflicts magical damage equal to 200% of (ATK INT) x Skill Level, or when wielded is 200% of ((STR ATK) INT) x Skill Level.
-Amount of Mana to maintain: 50 MP per minute.
Turning once more towards the tree, I tightened my grip on the blade as I pulled it back before swinging the rapier forward, letting out a cry.
I watched as my [Mana Rapier] managed to cut through the hard wood, causing the whole tree to fall roughly to the ground, leaving me in awe and surprise. Granted, it took a bit more strength behind it, but still! That was pretty impressive.
I looked around and moved a couple of distances away as I set my eyes on another, much larger tree close by. I then concentrated, creating two more [Mana Rapiers] as I watched them float in front of me. With enough focus and skill, I aimed and launched them forward at a fast rate, hitting their mark with both blades piercing right through and out from behind the tough wood of the tree. I then tried calling them back, watching the two blades immediately fly back toward me.
I couldn't help but let a mischievous grin form on my face as I tightened my grip on the [Mana Rapier] in my right hand. And so, I continued practicing my mastery over the blade as well as getting the hang of using my newly formed [Mana Rapiers], swinging and thrusting the blade in my hand while focusing on moving the other two floating blades.
At first, I struggled for a bit, but as an hour passed, I began to slowly gain better control in moving them in the air. I was able to start swinging and thrusting them forward more precisely as I kept improving with time.
[Mana Manipulation] has Leveled Up twice! 23 =} 25
[Danmaku (Touhou Project)] has Leveled Up! 27 =} 28
[Sword Mastery] has Leveled Up twice! 9 =} 11
Not only that, I also took the time to level up [Power Strike], and I soon learned that I could use it unarmed. I tried punching a tree with the [Skill] active, leaving a pretty big dent in it. This led me to think of a few possible combinations with other skills and techniques I could use in conjunction with it in the future, such as [Thunder Punch] and [Power Strike]!
Unfortunately, that was about the only combination I could think of right now, especially since I seem to lack any other compatible techniques that may possibly work well enough in my repertoire of [Skills]. But I wasn't too worried about it, as I was certain of gaining more [Skills] and abilities later in the future. For now, I would simply work with what I have currently at my disposal.
I stopped practicing my swordsmanship and the [Mana Rapier] spell as I attempted to use the last of my elemental magic that I hadn't used until now: [Ice Magic]. I felt a bit of excitement in practicing this one, as I knew that the power to manipulate ice could be incredibly powerful if given proper control and expertise.
However, I would need to do so with caution, making sure to avoid harming myself or other people nearby. The only known form of reference I have for this would, yet again, be from fiction—mainly anime, manga, video games, and maybe some cartoons I grew up with at the time.
Much like what I had done before, I began drawing magic into my palms as I felt the magical power in both of my hands. I closed my eyes, mentally forming the image of ice in my mind as I felt the magic between my palms forming something. It felt cold and solid as I opened my eyes to see small chunks of ice being created between my hands, pure magical ice before my eyes.
I then began concentrating further; the small pieces of ice between my hands merged together as I started generating more, forming and shaping it all into a single long, sharp shard of ice that resembled a cone-shaped crystal made of ice.
I held my hand forward, aiming the shard of ice at a certain tree a fair distance away as I launched it forward, crying out the name I had come up with for this [Spell]: "Icicle Shot!"
I watched as the shard of ice was thrown at high speed, quickly hitting and embedding itself deep into the thick wood of the tree. I soon fired several more shards, further hitting and puncturing the hard wooden surface as I found my proficiency in firing magic had grown sharp and efficient through continuous practice over the past few days.
You've created new [Spell: [Icicle Shot]!
-[Icicle Shot] (Active) - Cost: 10MP - The user conjures and launches sharp crystals made of ice to attack. The user can rapidly fire multiple shots, dealing magical and piercing Ice-based damage equal to 200% of INT x skill level.
[Ice Magic] had Leveled Up ! 1 =} 2
A proud smile formed on my lips at seeing that, but I was far from stopping right there. Immediately, an idea came to me as I began experimenting with my [Ice Magic]. I once again began generating ice between my hands, this time molding it into the shape of a long javelin. Its size was about 270 cm (106.3 inches) in length and tipped with a very sharp bladed head as I carefully gripped the long spear in my right hand.
[Ice Magic] had Leveled Up twice! 2 =} 4
You've created new [Spell: [Ice Javelin]!
-[Ice Javelin] (Active) - Cost: MP Varies - The user conjures a sharp-tipped spear made of ice that can be shot or wielded. Create javelins made of ice up to or equal to Skill Level. They can be wielded by hand or can float or move by the user's will. Each spear inflicts magical ice-based damage equal to 200% of (ATK INT) x Skill Level, or when wielded, it is 200% of ((STR ATK) INT) x Skill Level. Each spear has an ATK of 250% of Skill Level. Each spear has a durability of 250% of (INT x Skill Level). The cost to cast and maintain each spear is 80 per minute.
A quick cast of [Observe] later and I'm soon greeted to the information shown to me as I held onto the spear of ice in my hand.
[Spear: [Ice Javelin] - ATK: 10/DUR: 440/440
Description: A single-handed throwing spear of ice conjured through [Ice Magic]. Conjured by [The Gamer: [Hiroshi Kokoro].
Type: One-Handed Throwing Spear: Javelin
-Can be wielded by hand or can float and moved by the user's will.
-Inflicts magical ice damage equal to 200% of (ATK INT) x Skill Level, or when wielded is 200% of ((STR ATK) INT) x Skill Level.
-Amount of Mana to maintain: 80 MP per minute.
As I held the ice spear in my hand, I could feel it emitting cold; it felt nice in a way, as it somehow gave off a natural sensation in my touch.
Could this be due to my [Ice Affinity]? Could it be a product conjured from my own [Ice Magic]? Or perhaps a combination of both, as that seems to be the most likely reason in my eyes. Otherwise, I'd worry about frostbite if that were the case.
I then tried twirling the light spear in my hand, only to end up fumbling it as I watched it fall to the ground.
Not wanting to give up so easily, I picked up the long-pole weapon and tried again couple times before slowly getting used to it with little degree.
I began trying to slowly get a better handle on using it as I sadly lack much knowledge regarding spearmanship, but that wouldn't be for long it would seem.
As I kept practicing with the [Ice Javelin] in hand, performing basic thrusts and swings with amateurish skill at best, I slowly begin to get better. Not immediate, but I was starting to see myself improving as I held the javelin with both hands and attempted to launch several fast thrusts forward, hitting the air.
Through slow and careful steps of self-practice and limited knowledge, you have gained the [Skill: [Spear Mastery]!
[Spear Mastery] (Passive) Level: 1 - EXP: 0%
Description: Throughout the entirety of the world, spears have been known to be one of the most common weapons for centuries. Mainly consisting of a long, narrow shaft with a pointed head, spears have been used for both hunting and warfare since their conception. Usually, spears are separated into two broad categories: those designed for thrusting as melee weapons, such as lances and pikes, and those designed as ranged weapons, often referred to as javelins. No matter the era, the spear has rightly earned its name as the King of Weapons throughout humanity's long and bloody history. [Spear Mastery] allows you to wield any kind of spear with ease.
-Grants the user the ability to carry a [Spear] with ease.
-Passively increases the physical damage with a [Spear] by 5% x Skill Level.
Seeing this, I continued practicing spearmanship with much more vigor as I tried my best to learn the art. It was much more difficult for me to get the hang of than I anticipated. Compared to swordsmanship, I could at the very least get a generally good grasp of it, mainly due to the limited knowledge I had about it (mostly from reading and watching manga and anime, but still!). However, spearmanship was something I had much less knowledge of than I had with swords. Thus, my progress in the art of spear wielding was coming along much slower in comparison to the blade, but that wouldn't stop me. And so, I kept pushing myself to improve, determined to get stronger in the way of the spear!
A couple of hours passed as I wordlessly exited the [Empty ID], looking genuinely tired and feeling slightly out of breath after practicing both my [Ice Magic] and [Spear Mastery], along with utilizing [Power Strike]. It was long and slow progress, but I managed to get them to a considerably good level.
[Ice Magic] has Leveled Up 9x! 4 =} 13
[Power Strike] has Leveled Up 8x! 3 =} 11
[Spear Mastery] has Leveled Up 14x! 1 =} 15
As I'm brought back to normal reality, I looked up at the sky, peering through what little of gaps from within the forest, and saw the sun still shining up in the afternoon sky. Seeing as the day was still far from over, I took the time to rest a bit before deciding to explore further within the Forest of Magic.
Wandering through the forest, I explore further into this strange and mushroom-filled environment, picking up some unique herbs and fungi along the way. Plus, a couple of new ones and some food I've discovered as identified via [Observe], placing them into my [Inventory].
[Food/Material: [Kakishimeji Mushroom] x8 (13)
[Food/Material: [Matsutake Mushroom] x5 (17)
[Food/Material: [Younembo] x10 (13)
[Food/Material: [Refreshing Grass] x12 (30)
[Food/Material: [Calming Blue Flower] x15 (24)
[Food/Material: [Eye-Cap Mushroom] (x3)
Description: A rare species of mushroom, also known as "Third Eye-Caps," has an appearance that generally consists of a white stalk with a yellow ring (annulus) and large light-purple caps with a single eye-like pattern on them. They possess a certain amount of magical and psychic properties and are often used for various magical and medical purposes, mainly related to the mind. However, they are known to inflict extremely strong hallucinogenic effects and often cause high mental disorientation and headaches that can last from a few days to a whole week. They can only be grown naturally in the Forest of Magic.
-Recovers 25-50% HP when consumed.
-May inflict [Status Effect: [Confusion] and [Hallucinating].
-May inflict extreme hallucinations, migraines, and mental disorientation upon consumption.
-Can be used as an ingredient for preparing [Food] (when cleaned) or [Potions].
[Food/Material: [Red Moss] (x16)
Description: A special species of moss that often tends to grow onto nearby dead animals, trees or other larger plant life in the Forest of Magic, earning it the name of "Bloody Moss" or "Vampire Moss" as commonly referred to by residents of the Hunan Village and some magicians, respectivly. However, they are often used in making strong medicine or healing [Potions] due to having high amounts of healing and restorative properties, likely from draining the nutrients and remaining life-force of the corpses and dead plant-life.
-Recovers 50-95% HP when consumed.
-Can be used as an ingredient for preparing [Food] (when cleaned) or [Potions].
[Food/Material: [Wineberry] (x24)
Description: Originally native to the Outside World, mainly Japan, as well as Korea and China, these species of berries possess a bright and shiny orange-red color, turning crimson when fully ripe, and carry an unusual aromatic sweet-yet-tart taste. They are ideal for eating fresh from the bush and are also used in jams, jellies, and desserts. The berries are encased by a calyx (protective shield) as they ripen, and the stems of the wineberry are covered in a thick layer of golden bristles. These bristles are not particularly sharp but seem to be enough of a deterrent to birds, insects, and other herbivores.
-Possess a very sweet, somewhat tart taste.
-Recovers 5-10HP when consumed.
-Can be used as an ingredient for preparing [Food].
The Eye-Caps I've only managed to get a few of while wandering through the forest. Sadly, I couldn't really find more afterward. I, of course, kept the three I have in my [Inventory] for safekeeping until the time comes to use them.
The [Red Moss] I've found quite a few times throughout my trek, mainly around a couple of dead rabbits and wolves. Hell, I even found some of it growing on one of those [Red Man-eater Flowers] I've fought before and on a decayed human corpse when I stumbled upon it. It was likely some human who got lost and encountered it before somehow ending up killing each other, maybe even out of desperation if that knife with long-dried blood was any indication, which I politely took from him, along with a pouch containing over 2 Ryos worth of cash (8,125 Mon). Lucky Me!
Picking up the dagger, I quickly recognized it as a tanto, and a steel one at that, as I cast [Observe] on it. There was some dried-up blood staining the short steel blade, the color being a dark brown.
[Knife: [Steel Tanto] - ATK: 30/DUR: 90/90
Description: A traditionally made Japanese knife, originally worn by the samurai class of feudal Japan, dates back to the Heian Period. Tantos are also used in the traditional martial arts of Tantojutsu and in Seppuku suicide rituals. Forged using high-carbon steel and measuring 25 cm (about 9.8 inches), this double-edged steel dagger is designed for both stabbing and slashing.
Type: Single-Handed Double-Edge Knife: Tanto
-Can deal either stabbing and slashing damage.
As I held a firm grip on the short blade, I gave it a few forward thrusts and swings, trying to get a feel for the weapon. I was able to gain a rather basic understanding and skill with it, even if it was amateurish at best. Of course, I gained a [Skill] for it, as it would seem.
[Knife Mastery] (Passive) Level: 1 - EXP: 0%
Description: Since prehistoric times, knives have been used by humanity as weapons and tools, with the earliest knives being made of flint. Whether to stab or cut, from daggers to combat knives, they can be a good choice as weapons for various situations. The [Knife Mastery] skill allows you to wield any of them with ease.
-Grants the user the ability to use any sort of [Knife] with ease.
-Passively increase the damage caused by a [Knife] by 5% x Skill Level
I put the tanto to good use, having used it to peel off some of the [Red Moss] from both the dead man-eating plant and the human body. I could still recall the cold, dead feeling, as well as seeing a few maggots and flies on the damn thing when picking the moss off it. However, I remained calm despite the great disgust I felt at seeing and touching the corpse. Yep, I was definitely going to wash my hands after that, which I immediately did upon acquiring the last bit of the damn moss. Thank God, or whatever, for my [Water Magic]!
Speaking of magic... A thought crossed my mind as I began to think to myself: could I learn how to sense magic or mana? And for that matter, could I also learn to sense ki on my own, like in [Dragon Ball]? I... I'm not quite sure, but if it's possible, then there's only one way to find out. However, for now, I will hold on to that for later as I keep my eyes focused along the way.
As for the [Wineberries], I've managed find a bush full of them and proceeded to pick some, even using the tanto to get quite a few of them.
Anyway, I continued wandering through the forest, even killing a couple of groups of those [Red Man-eater Flowers (Lvl. 1)] and earning myself some EXP as well. I did so with merely a single [Mana Rapier] and my swordsmanship alone, with little difficulty.
You have gained 675EXP!
You have gained 文 (Mon): 1125!
Loot:
[Red Man-eater Petal] x36
[Red Man-eater Leaf] x27
[Mana Manipulation] has Leveled Up! 25 =} 26
[Sword Mastery] has Leveled Up! 10 =} 11
[Danger Sense] has Leveled Up! 7 =} 8
However, as I continued my trek through the forest, I suddenly began to hear giggling around me. I quickly got on guard and prepared myself for whatever may come.
Cautiously turning my head, I frantically scanned my surroundings as I felt nervous. However, I remained calm as I adopted a determined expression on my face.
The young and playful giggling gradually increased as I stood my ground. The sounds of playful giggles slowly grew louder as I prepared to form a [Mana Rapier] in my right hand while readying myself to fire my own arsenal of shots should I have to fight.
I felt tense, the atmosphere feeling suspenseful as I anticipated whatever may come my way until—
Sensed Danger!
Eyes widening, I immediately felt my [Danger Sense] acting up and jumped to the side, managing to dodge several shots of danmaku bullets that came my way. Shots of fire, water, and wind crashing to where I once stood as I quickly turned to the direction of where they came from.
"Damn it! Almost had him!"
"Aw... I missed him!"
"Eh?! How did he dodge that?"
I heard three distinct voices, each sounding female and childlike, as three individuals suddenly stepped—or rather flew—forward, revealing what appeared to be three distinctly looking little girls, each possessing two sets of wings.
On the right was a young girl who appeared to be around 10-11 years old, sitting at possibly 5'2". She had shoulder-length blue hair and blue eyes, and she wore a blue dress with the skirt reaching down to her knees, her eyes carrying a curious yet mischievous glint. Her two pairs of wings appeared to be made of water, glowing blue in color.
The one on the left looked to be the youngest, appearing to be a small eight-year-old girl, standing at 5 feet tall with matching light green eyes, short hair, and soft fair skin. She wore a simple green and cyan blue dress, a pair of white socks, and blue shoes as she timidly tried to hide behind the girl in the middle. Her wings appeared to glow a faint, vibrant green and were made of wind.
Finally, the girl in the middle looked to also be around the same age as the blue-haired one, standing at 5 feet but appearing slightly taller, with fiery orange shoulder-length hair and matching eyes, which carried a rather confident glint. Much like the other two, she wore a simple European-style dress and had two pigtails tied on both sides of her head with small orange bows, complete with a pair of black rosemary shoes. Her wings were made of orange flames in the shape of mayfly wings as she stared right at me with a smug smile on her cute little face.
I looked above their heads to see their [Names] and [Levels], keeping my guard up as I kept my eyes on the three girls. I knew immediately what they were the moment I saw their wings, as well as [Observe], which only confirmed it.
Name: Breeze Fairy
HP: 140/140
SP: 140/140
MP: 792/792
KI: 60/60
PE: 270/270
Status: [None]
Level: 10
Bio: An average Fairy of breeze, simple-minded and childish, and possess the typical appearance of a small young girl and usually sporting a simple dress and attire as well as lighter shades of green hair. They often using their limited power over winds to prank humans and Youkai alike.
Name: Water Fairy
HP: 300/300
SP: 300/300
MP: 1859/1859
KI: 75/75
PE: 390/390
Status: [None]
Level: 11
Bio: A fairy of water, capable of manipulating the element of water, is typically simple-minded and childish. They are often nice and bubbly in nature. They usually possess the appearance of a small young girl, sporting simple blue dresses and/or attire, as well as having blue hair. They often use their magical abilities to prank humans and youkai alike, such as soaking their clothes or possessions or dropping ice-cold water on top of them.
Name: Fire Fairy
HP: 360/360
SP: 360/360
MP: 1716/1716
KI: 90/90
PE: 360/360
Status: [None]
Level: 12
Bio: A fairy of fire, capable of manipulating the element of fire. Typically simple-minded and childish, they are often more competitive and passionate but can be prone to anger. They usually possess the appearance of a small young girl, sporting a simple red-orange dress and/or attire, as well as orange or red hair. They often use their magical abilities to prank humans and youkai alike, such as lighting their possessions on fire or setting their hair on fire.
"Fairies..." I quietly muttered in both surprise and fascination as I continued staring cautiously at the three [Fairies]. I slowly hid my right hand behind my back, concealing it from their view as [Lightning Magic] began forming in my hand, ready to cast either a [Thunderbolt] or [Thunder Punch] should they attack first, which I found likely to happen...
I kept my face straight and calm, putting on a poker face—something that I've done many times, even back in my previous life—as I did my best to show little emotion on my expression.
Through past experiences, you have gained the [Skill: [Poker Face]!
Through past experiences, the [Skill: [Poker Face] has Leveled Up 15x! 1 =} 16
[Poker Face] (Passive) Level: 16 - EXP: 0%
Description: The art of this skill lies in the ability to conceal the user's thoughts and feelings, forming and maintaining an inscrutable face that reveals little to no hint of their neutral and/or unreadable expression. The greater the [Skill, the better they can mask their true thoughts and emotions from others.
-Allows the user to form a neutral and unreadable expression to mask their emotions, thoughts, and feelings from others.
-Also affected by CHA.
The one in the middle, likely leading the other two fairies, stepped forward, hands on her hips as she strutted towards me, coming to a fair distance away from me, with the rest of her entourage following right behind her.
"Eh, doesn't matter! Probably just a fluke," the orangette said, a smug and playful grin on her lips as she simply eyed me and continued. "We can still mess with him, ain't that right, girls? After all, he's just human."
"Yeah, I guess you're right," the blue-haired one responded, looking no less mischievous than her orange-haired companion, with the greenette nodding along with them. "Why don't we take whatever he has while we're at it!"
"A-And he does seem kinda cute..." the green-haired fairy added, staring curiously at me. Her words caught me off guard for a bit, a faint red dusting my cheeks upon hearing that. However, I quickly shook my head as I took a stance.
"I don't think so..." I began, showing little emotion. "Look, how about we just forget this and go our separate ways? How about it?" I said, attempting to end this in a more peaceful manner, hopefully.
Was I worried about fighting these three? Not really, as they didn't seem to be strong at all. Then again, they were [Fairies] and significantly weaker compared to me, so I wasn't too worried about them. Plus, they don't know I'm a [Fairy] like them as well, which I could use to surprise and catch them off guard should it come to that.
For a moment, they simply blinked, but then immediately began to laugh upon hearing that, with the blue and orange-haired fairies letting out cute laughs while the green one simply giggled to herself as if they had just heard a joke.
"Ha~! That's a good one, human!" said the Fire Fairy, calming down. She then gave a cocky grin at me as she stretched her arm out, a small ball of flame materializing in her hand as she aimed it at me. I then saw the other two forming their own respective shots and aiming in my direction. "But, nope. Fire!"
With that, I quickly got on my feet and began moving my body to the side as I managed to dodge the magical shots of wind, water, and fire.
"Welp, it was worth a shot..." I honestly kind of expected it to happen, but still. In response, I aimed my own hand at them and cast a [Thunderbolt] their way, which quickly caught them off guard.
However, the Water and Fire Fairies managed to barely avoid it somehow, but the same couldn't be said for the Breeze Fairy, as the bolt of lightning struck the poor small girl, causing her to cry out in pain. She felt the electricity burning her entire body before vanishing in a burst of magic.
Pichu~n!
The other two were shocked upon seeing their fellow friend get one-shotted by my attack, which I took as the chance to quickly dash towards them. My hand was drawn back and formed into a fist as I got in front of them both, catching them further off guard.
Through a special action, you have gained the [Skill: [Dash]!
[Dash] (Passive) Level: 1 - EXP: 0%
Description: The skill of dashing grants the user the ability to move with sudden speed, allowing them to run at much greater speeds.
-Passively increases DEX by 1% per skill level.
-Passively increases running speed by 10%.
"Wait, wha-?!" Before the blue-haired fairy could gather her bearings, I slammed my fist forward, imbued with [Power Strike]. My fist was more than enough to punch through her chest and come right out the other side of her body. She could do nothing but widen her eyes in shock, her mouth agape as she slowly looked down to see my own fist and arm piercing right through her chest. However, before her mind could even register what had happened, her entire body also burst out of existence.
Pichu~n!
Through a special action, you have gained [Skill: [Hand-To-Hand Combat]!
[Hand-To-Hand Combat] (Passive) Level: 1 - EXP: 27%
Description: [Hand-to-Hand Combat] is the art of using your body to attack your enemies and defend yourself from both unarmed and armed foes alike.
-Grants the user the ability to fight enemies unarmed with ease.
-Passively increases STR and DEX by 1% x Skill Level.
Now, the only one left was the [Fire Fairy]. However, my [Danger Sense] immediately kicked in once more as I was forced to move to the side, avoiding a large fireball that was headed my way.
I turned to the source to find the Fire Fairy, who was now firing a barrage of [Fire Shots] while occasionally launching large [Fireballs] at me. Her smug confidence was now gone, replaced by a mix of awe and fear. More importantly, she looked angry. Her earlier bravado had vanished...
"W-What the heck?! Who... Who are you?!" she asked, likely wondering what was going on as she continued firing her shots and fireballs toward me while keeping a fair distance away by flying, thanks to her flaming wings.
"My name is Hiroshi Kokoro. And I'm both a boy and..." I then revealed my wings to her, two pairs of silver cloud-like wings materializing from my back. "...a Fairy." I finished as I gave her a little smirk, watching her jaw drop at hearing this revelation.
I then flew straight towards her, [Mana Rapier] formed in one hand, as I drew my blade back to strike her.
In her panic, she hastily tried to create some kind of barrier made of fire around herself in an attempt to block my attack.
I, however, wouldn't give her the chance and managed to close the distance between us, appearing right in front of her. She couldn't react in time as my blade swung forward, bisecting the poor [Fire Fairy] in half.
For a moment, a look of pure awe and confusion was on her face as she could do nothing but utter a single word. "W-What...?"
Afterward, both halves of her body vanished in a burst of fiery magic. I then dematerialized the magical blade in my hand as I gazed at where the last Fairy once stood.
I didn't feel guilty, though, knowing they would come back a day later. After all, they're [Fairies], and so am I, with death more or less being of little consequence to us!
You have gained 600EXP!
You have gained 文 (Mon): 600!
Loot:
[Fairy Dust] x15
[Fire Crystal Shard] x1
[Dash] has Leveled Up! 1 =} 2
Not only that, but I also got a nice amount of EXP for it. Plus, should those Fairies come back—which I can see them doing, likely with more of them to aid in getting payback against me.
However, I expect them to do so. The reason is that they'll no doubt tell other Fairies of my existence, possibly making them curious enough to come toward me, as I could use this to my advantage, allowing myself to gain some more EXP to level up.
I look up through the very few small gaps in the forest and see the day beginning to wane, the orange sky slowly giving way as the signs of night soon arrive.
~[Playing BGM: [Dry Hands] - [Minecraft - Volume Alpha]~
A familiar tune began to play as I looked around, watching the little light filtering through the forest slowly dim...
'Guess this ends my third day here...'
I looked around, searching for a nice spot to sleep once more.
'Heh. Honestly, the soft yet powerfully beautiful sounds of the piano notes give the whole scene a calm atmosphere...' I thought, smiling as I continued walking, enjoying the peaceful music.
Eventually, I found a nice spot as I lay down, my back against the tree. By the time I sat down, it had already become night as moonlight began illuminating the calm and darkened forest.
The calm yet chilling winds and the clear night sky, accompanied by the music, cast a calm and relaxing atmosphere, at least for me. I felt my eyelids grow heavy, the soothing sounds of piano notes easing my nerves as I could feel myself slowly falling unconscious.
Of course, I allowed myself to do so, my consciousness slowly giving way to sleep as I lay against the smooth wooden surface.
And on that night, I began to dream...
To be continued
[Ending Song: [Roundabout] - [JoJo's Bizarre Adventure (2012)]
A/N: Hi! It's been a while, hasn't it? I've just been stressing and getting distracted a lot recently. I've had a lot on my mind, which is pretty concerning.
Anyway, I hope some of you enjoyed this. In my opinion, this chapter didn't have much going on. However, I'd rather go at my own pace and simply write things as I go along with this.
As for the [Harem, I've already decided who will be in it since making this, and it should be obvious, but for those who don't know, currently it's [Reimu Hakurei, [Marisa Kirisame, [Rumia, [Cirno, and [Hong Meiling] so far. However, they won't immediately fall in love right at the get-go, as I wish to make it more or less a slow-burn kind of thing. This will also apply to any other girls, should they be added to the [Harem] or suggested by you guys.
This is simply me wishing to create a foundation for my MC, as I want his relationships with each of the characters to start off simply as acquaintances before forming genuine friendships, and then something more later on in the story.
Other than that, I thank all those who have supported me here in this story, and I hope you're all doing well. Again, I'm willing to try to improve my writing to the best of my abilities, as well as consider any suggestions you may have in mind. Plus, one last thing.
I won't claim to be a power scaler, nor do I believe I can accurately scale the powers and abilities of characters, which is why I'm asking some of you. How strong would you say [Hiroshi Kokoro] is in comparison to the average fairies and characters such as Cirno in [Touhou Project, as well as what you've seen thus far? I would like to know, mostly out of simple curiosity.
And with that, that's all I have for you all. Thank you...