Hello all and welcome to the first chapter of Death and Decay, decided to give it another go at another gamer fic. My first attempt proved that I had accelerated things far too quickly. Made him powerful too fast and time jumped quite a bit etc. This time I will try to take it a bit slowly and enjoy it a little more, the main character will progress like he probably should. I am going to try to leave a lot of the things like Gacha or taking on a new Perk for a Flaw will be completely left to chance. I have made a list of 100 items for the Gacha, with a few broken items mixed in with a range of mostly common and rare items. But if I roll it and it lands on a broken item, I will just run with it and see where it takes us. The Perks and flaws are similar to the Gacha items I will roll for those as well. Hopefully this adds a more unpredictable element and be a bit more fun. Anyways please leave a comment on what you think. Enjoy!
XXXXXX
[System Speaking]
"Thoughts."
"Speaking Aloud!"
XXXXXX
Nothingness…
Just black nothingness…
I must say I am a bit disappointed that this is all that waits for you in death, I mean what are you even supposed to do for the rest of time. Just idly float until your soul just fades and flickers out of existence? The scariest thing I would point out is just how comfortable it is to just drift and let go of everything.
Not sure I how long I have been dead for… days? Years? Centuries? I had realized rather quickly that the memories of my life had begun to fade, I hardly remember the faces of my family or my name. Couldn't have even told you what I looked like myself.
Though my initial disappointment was sorely misplaced as time passed ever forward. After a bit I figured I went to hell since it is torturous holding on to every scrap of memory you can, only to make the personal hell far worse as you actively feel everything slip away.
All I really know about myself is the simplest summary of my life, I enjoyed anime, video games and sex like any hot-blooded male would. Though from what I can remember I was mostly a loner and not much of a socializer. I often kept to myself other than the occasional hookups with girls or with friends.
Had a boring office job that ultimately didn't amount to much in my short life, I think I may have been in my late 20s, hard to say. From what I could tell I was an only child based on what memories I had left, even though they were of mostly blurred out faces of my parents.
"Yep, just an average joe making his way through the world."
For the indescribable amount of time, I have been drifting, I've been actively trying to keep my mind working to slow the rate of fading but all that has come of it is me being more conscious of my degrading personality and memories.
The descent into madness and insanity reaching ever closer with each passing second, the only thing to preoccupy me was replaying memories in my mind. Though that eventually began to fail me as they mostly faded away, as a result, I started to play mental games, you name it I played it probably thousands of times. Though the insanity seemed to only etch closer after my 3000th game of tic tac toe.
After that I just decided to stop and finally let go.
And the relief I felt radiate throughout my soul felt like the weight of the world had been lifted. My soul begins to fade my memories now disappearing at an accelerated rate, all that remains is resigned contentment and bliss.
[Color me impressed, you held out longer than anyone I have ever seen before, most either fade quickly or descend to madness losing their grip on their sanity and then quickly fading shortly after.]
"Huh…?"
A black silver-rimmed text box with white lettering appears in front of me. Almost as soon as it appears my soul halts in its process of fading. A small bit of clarity supplied as a result.
"What is this? What are you?"
[Hmm… don't really have a name. But I am often referred as The System so you could use that if you wish.]
"System?" I think, confusion clearly the dominant emotion.
"Wait… Hold on your telling me that you watched me slowly descend into madness for all that time and you didn't even do anything about it?" I thought with anger boiling up at the thought.
[Well Yeah you could say that. It helps me weed out the many for the few that are of high quality. Think of what you just went through as a trial to see if you are worthy of a new start. Normally the soul just fades away and reverted to a sort of blank slate, then being reborn as something else. Though there are the few that yours truly deems an incredibly high-quality soul and is given a second chance at life with most memories intact.]
"How does the process even work?" I ask curiously.
[Well normally every once in a while I will gather a few billion souls of various beings and life forms that died and throw them in the in between here, and basically wait till there is only one left. Then I pull that soul out and offer them a chance at a second life.]
"For what purpose?"
[You are really full of questions aren't you… Sigh* To be honest it is all for my own entertainment, it gets a bit boring sending souls through the cycle of rebirth after a few billion years. So, what do you say, want to give life another shot?]
"Sure, why not." I would have to be the biggest idiot not to take up the offer.
[Good choice… Alright with that out of the way I would like to give you this.]
A new text box appears with a long rectangular bar that slowly fills.
…Uploading
…
…
Upload Complete! New Player acknowledged!
"Player? What is this supposed to mean?" I ask curiously.
[Ah yes, Most of your memories were likely to be lost but… this should repair most of what was lost and fill you in on the necessary information.]
…Uploading
…
Upload Complete! Memory Data Injected!
The gaping hole that I didn't realize was in my soul quickly fills as a splitting pain runs through my mind at the sudden excess in information. Flashes of other worlds and universes come and go, but one memory lifts to the surface about a Manhwa called The Gamer appear. After all of the memories settle, I quickly realize that all of these are the my original memories of my past life of all the anime and manga that I had read had been restored. The more personal part of my memories seems to be the bare minimum only enough to supply a simple understanding of my life.
[That is about all I could restore, everything else was either lost or corrupted data. So be grateful that you got at least that much, now no more wasting time let's begin…]
New Player Introduction Initializing…
…
…
Upload Complete!
Compared to the pain of information overload before this is only a slight tingle in comparison. But this "upload" that The System started proved rather useful, granting me the bare bones basic Knowledge of the Gamer System. Things like bringing up the Status, Skills, Gacha, and last of all the Store.
It seems all commands related to the Gamer System is purely mental to secure the knowledge of the systems existence and reduce attention to the Player about the System. "Bottom line just means do not tell anyone about the system."
[Yeah, don't do that. That is an extra precaution I had to put in place since there were happening where players either accidentally or intentionally told non players about the Gamer System and let's just say it didn't turn out well... ever. I mean mostly resulting in the slavery of the Player and that is putting it lightly.]
The screen appears before I begin to read, I gain a mental look of confusion at a piece of the information given. "There are other multiverses, other players walking about?"
[Yep, each player has their own respective Multiverse to play about in. Let's just say there is thousands of different players lurking around. I wouldn't worry about them really since if anything most players are not very malicious to each other save for a select few. The only real encounters you will face is a cross dimensional messaging system that players use, a trading option and most of all the Store. Which is operated by the players themselves functioning as a marketplace of sorts. Each item you see is posted by another player, mostly there for convenience for other players that don't have access to such items from the universe they are in at that time.]
"I see…"
Seems like the Player base is quite the close nit community, something that is quite rare from what I remember when I was alive. Seems like quite the useful function if I am in a pinch and need something quickly. Finishing the thought, I wonder what the next step would be.
[Well now we choose your starting world and conditions. I will give you a list of your favorite Anime, Tv shows, books, games and manga from your past life. All you have to do is choose one to enter for the foreseeable future. The list is as follows.]
Harry Potter
Game of Thrones
Fairy Tale
Bleach
High School DxD
The Walking Dead
Naruto
Vampire Diaries
Re: Monster
Dark Souls
Wow this is quite the selection of options. I take a few moments weighing the choices, there are a few that I automatically rule out like Harry Potter, Bleach, The Walking Dead and Dark Souls. Harry Potter just seems like a headache to be honest; Dark Souls is just suicide and the reasons for TWD is the same for the former. I don't really think it would be the greatest idea to venture into the Bleach universe with a guy like Aizen roaming about.
Vampire diaries is an out for similar reasons to Bleach. After seriously thinking about my remaining options, I ultimately come down to two options.
Naruto and High School DxD. Both having plenty of room to grow and gain power to a frightening potential, DxD probably holding a bit more in that department. Though Naruto has an apocalyptic like event with Madara trying to bring "peace". It does give me around four to five years of preparation for such a thing. DxD doesn't seem to have anything like that from what I can remember, seems that is the decider.
"DxD it is then."
First world choice acknowledged!
Initiating…
…
…
Complete!
[Okay! Now we need to start with your world Conditions, Background and Race. There will be many choices for you to choose from, though you will only get a free 2000 points to allocate for being a beginner. After this point they will have to be accrued through blood sweat and tears.]
Character Race
Human – Free
Reincarnated Devil – 100 points
Fallen Angel – 200 points
Pure Blooded Devil – 250 points
Angel – 250 points
The Human option while free I will need to start just as weak as one and in such a universe, I will take whatever head start I can get. A boost as a Reincarnated Devil is nice but effectively starting in basically eternal servitude to someone else is out. A fallen Angel just doesn't seem appealing, Angel is just way too constricting of a race. I am certain I will fall from grace if I choose that. Becoming a Pure Blooded Devil is incredibly appealing, starting out effectively a Noble among a race with the chance at a powerful clan power. I also get high standing and reputation automatically along with wealth. The option is well worth the price…
"I choose Pure Blooded Devil."
Acknowledging Player Decision!
Initiating…
…
…
Complete!
[Good Choice, now choose your background.]
Character Background
Random - Free
Gremory – 1500
Phenex - 1300
Sitri - 1250
Bael - 1700
Vassago - 1000
Marbas - 750
Velefor - 750
…
A long list appears displaying the 72 Pillars, nearly all of them having absurd prices listed. Some I understand with them being tied to one of the 4 Satan's directly or indirectly, or just having higher positions in the hierarchy. I will need to choose Random and conserve my points for future options, while yes getting access to the power of destruction and the Phenex's regeneration I would rather not have to spend all of my remaining points.
"I choose Random…"
Player Choice Acknowledged!
Initiating…
…
…
Complete!
[Leaving it up to luck, eh? I can respect that. Now for your final set of choices, they are mostly add on's that you can buy with your points. Or you can choose to just leave it up to whatever Random Clan you chose. Here is the list of add ons.]
Add ons
Secluded Castle (Upgrades Available after Purchase) – 800
Common Familiar – 200
Rare Familiar – 350
Legendary Familiar – 800
Common Servant - 150
Rare Servant - 300
Legendary Servant – 750
…
A long list of various privileges appears surprising me slightly at the sheer amount, I would never be able to get them all since I don't have nearly enough points. Though I think it would be in my best interest to purchase the Secluded Castle, and maybe a servant? A good servant is incredibly hard to find with your interests at heart, a familiar I can always go to the familiar forest on a full moon and try my luck there.
"I choose the Secluded castle and a Legendary Servant."
Player Choice Acknowledged!
Initiating…
…
…
Complete!
[Very well… now with all of that done now comes character creation. Would you like a body to be created with your ideal appearance?]
[Yes or No]
"Hmm… Why not. Yes."
Player Choice Acknowledged!
Generating Player model!
…
…
I watch with fascination as a body begins to materialize out of nothing, the bones materialize following with the ligaments, nervous system and cardiovascular system. The organs forming before the muscles sprout into existence. Soul piercing red eyes form in the eye sockets before Pale skin grows all around the body. Pitch black hair sprouts from the scalp framing the face. A rather impressive member sprouts between the legs, despite it being flaccid I already can tell the size is well above average.
Inspecting the bodies appearance, I am suddenly struck with recognition over its appearance. This looks incredibly close to Shinya Kogami in facial structure, hair style and even musculature. Everything is mostly the same except the piercing Red eyes. The age from what I can tell is maybe early twenties.
"I guess this is my ideal body, can't say I can complain with the choice. Good Job me."
Complete!
[Alright we are almost done, last thing if you choose is to take on random perks that can provide exponential bonus's and take on a Flaw that has potential threatening drawbacks, though most flaws and be gotten rid of with time, so what do you say?]
"Sure, why not."
Almost as soon as I accept a wheel materializes and begins to spin playing a tune like a slot machine, all the tiles completely blank in appearance probably to add to the suspense of what you could roll. It rolls incredibly fast for a moment before stopping, a separate text box appears displaying what perk I earned.
Perk Received!
Loved by Lady Luck – You often find yourself in more favorable situations and are all round luckier in loot drops. LUK stat gains are also permanently doubled.
Well, that is certainly a great perk to get, especially so early. Alright now for the damage control, lets see what Flaw I get in return. A new Slot wheel appears and begins to spin, bearing the same blank tiles as before. It stops after a suspenseful minute before a box appears in front of me.
Flaw Contracted!
Sickly – You were Born with a poor immune system granting an emaciated appearance, CHA and VIT is temporarily halved until VIT stat exceeds 50.
Almost as soon as it appears my body begins to adopt a look that would often match a someone at deaths door. The healthy athletic muscle mass I had before seemingly withers away as I begin to look no more than skin and bones, my eyes sunken as they look half lidded displaying an exhausted expression.
I give a mental wince at the result; this is quite the blow. Two of my stats are halved one being an incredibly important one while the other I can deal with. With my health being half of its original number is quite debilitating, though it is fortunate that I can get rid of the effects if I can get to 50 VIT.
"Sigh…"
I almost don't know if It is worth doing it again but risking another flaw as potentially as bad as this could really suck. Oh well one more time couldn't hurt, the effects are reversable after all. The Slot wheel rolls once again for a moment before stopping on yet another blank tile.
Perk Received!
Genius – You are a Genius born only once every few centuries as a result all experience gain is Doubled.
I don't think I could have gotten anything better than this, in the long run this will yield incredible results. Perhaps my Perk Loved my Lady Luck is already having an effect. The wheel rolls once again for another long suspenseful minute. I honestly am starting to feel that it is purposely longer than the other to put you on edge. It finally stops prompting another box to appear.
Flaw Contracted!
Lustful- The urge to partake in the more carnal desires are often at the forefront of your mind.
Could have been worse, I think I will quit while I am ahead and not roll for anything else. The opportunity to get something else is really eating at me but I ultimately decide to stop.
[Now the final thing before you are ready to start! Choose your class…]
Available Classes:
[Rogue[Fighter[Mage[Special]
Each choice is a tab that opens into more subclasses. Fighter holding berserker, saber and other things of the like. Rogue holding assassin, thief and archer and a few others. Mage opening into Elementalist, conjurer, necromancer, and a dozen more mancer type classes. Though out of all of them the one that gained my interest is the Special tab. Mentally clicking on it as it opens displaying multiple classes that have to do with crafting like smithing, alchemy, enchanting but there is one that seems to be different.
Psychic – Unlike anyone else you have power directly centered around the mind, things like Telekinesis, Telepathy, Mind Reading, and Clairvoyance are not outside your reach. Has the potential to be quite the fearsome class. Each level Grants 7 INT and 4 WIS.
"Is it possible to change classes after I have already picked one?"
[Absolutely, just level any class you have at the time to level 50 and you gain the ability to take on another. Though to select another class after that one you will have to max out your main class. Once the Main class has been maxed out the next class follows the same rules.]
Alright then I guess I will select Psychic, probably best considering my current physical health. Taking on a close quarters class would be suicide.
[Alright… Now let's get you in your body and start you your new life, luckily, I will throw you in lets say... A few hundred years, should be more than enough time for you to prepare until canon starts, good luck!]
Before I can even register a thought after reading my soul suddenly feels as if I am sucked forcibly right through a vacuum and then nothing. Almost a sleep like state succumbs my mind and a haze clouds my consciousness.
XXXXXX
The first thing I notice as I wake is that I finally have feeling once again! Never will I ever take for granted the ability to just… feel. Air fills my lungs as I take it in like I am starved for it, never had the simple act of breathing felt so foreign before. The softness of fabric touching my skin, and the familiar feeling of a mattress on my back.
Taking a moment to relax and grow accustomed to the onslaught of sensory information. Breathing in slowly before exhaling adapting quickly to the feeling of have a body. I carefully open my eyes as blinding light enters my retina's, wincing as I change the angle of my head seeing the light bleeding through the window across from the room.
Furnishings fit for royalty adorn all across the rather large room, royal red drapes adorn the windows on either side of me. Similar colored rugs run along the room. The architecture is exquisite, and the room seems to be carved out of a single slab of marble. An overall medieval touch to the furniture and architecture style itself. A few portraits adorn the walls featuring a few different individuals, all highly attractive I might add but they look practically ancient. They must have been created quite a long time ago.
A sudden splitting headache appears as images float across my mind, my memories of this life it seems. All of the individuals in the portrait are my ancestors and my parents included, one is even a picture of me. Showing me in all of my Sickly glory, discomfort written clearly along my features.
It seems that my family originally was part of the Old Satan Faction before just out right being fed up with them and separated ourselves to join the 72 Pillars. As a result, the Old Satan Faction didn't really take to kindly to the defectors and attacked my family killing my parents and leaving me as the sole remaining member of the clan making me the Lord. All assets had fell into my lap quite nicely, quite wealthy in fact. This Castle seems to have been built especially for my Family in our Territories in a secluded section of the underworld, a rather mountainous region.
If I really had to make a comparison, the castle would be incredibly close to the Neuschwanstein Castle. A pretty badass home if I say so myself it was a great choice and well worth cost.
I take the liberty of sitting upright, upon doing so I am immediately overcome with exhaustion at the action. Damn that Sickly Flaw is really making its presence known. "Might as well see exactly how bad the damage is." I think as I mentally call up my status.
Title: Lord of the Aemon Clan
Name – Nero Aemon
Class – Psychic Level - 1
HP – 2000/2000 - (1000/1000)
MP – 4000/4000
STR – 25
VIT – 20 (10)
DEX – 25
INT – 30
WIS – 20
CHA – 25 (12.5)
LUK – 15
Nero Lord of the Aemon clan, the names not bad probably wouldn't have chosen it myself to be honest but I will stick with it faithfully. The damage to my health is quite a critical problem and will require my immediate attention.
How about we take a look at my current skills, I mentally bring up the window as a new box appears.
Skills:
ID Create/Destroy (Active) [Max] – Allows entry and exit to an Instant Dungeon. Upon Completion of a dungeon unlocks another with a higher difficulty.
Current ID's –
Zombie
Observe (Active) [Max] – Displays the Targets information.
Decay (Active) [Level 1] - The fabled power of the Amon clan grants the user the ability to literally decay everything they touch. Upon first look it seemingly accelerates the time of any object or being touched. (Cost varies depending on intent and what is being Decayed.)
Damage – 1000 INT
Telekinesis (Active) [Level 1] – The ability to move, manipulate and interact with one's mind.
Current Liftable weight – 10 lbs.
Cost – 50/s
Gamers Mind (Passive) [Max]
Grants immunity to all Negative Psychological affects, does not however remove the Negative emotions.
Gamers Body (Passive) [Max]
Grants the Player a body with an infinite potential for growth.
Decay is the ability that is unique to my bloodline, one of the main reasons why the Old Satan Faction was so violent and persistent to kill us after our defection. Its potential and power could even kill a member of the Phenex Clan and Rot their flesh before they could even regenerate it back. As you can see the Old Satan Faction were not too keen on loses such a power.
I think on the last words that The System gave me, I am sure that it said a few hundred years before the start of canon... That gives me an incredible amount of time until the start of canon. I can prepare accordingly and gain enough strength to become something of an icon in the devil world with that much time. I just need to figure out exactly how far back I have been sent.
I groan aloud as I think about it, rubbing my eyes in slight frustration. I guess I will just have to deal with it, based on my memories I don't think I am during the era of the civil war, so I may be a few hundred years after the fact.
Pulling the covers off of me as I swing my legs to the side before standing to unsteady feet. My frail looking body bare and vulnerable to the cold air in my chambers. Walking slowly to my dresser on the other side of my room and putting on a pair of simple clothing, a black long sleeved shirt with equally black sweat pants. The feeling of fabric against my skin after so long is positively intoxicating.
Hardly taking a second later a presence appears behind me, turning my gaze to the figure and activating Observe.
"Sebastian…" I call out in a weak tone; it seems my condition is a lot worse than I thought. My entire body feels like even a small child could kill me.
Title: The Black Butler
Name – Sebastian Michaelis
Level - 176
HP – 43,500/43,500
MP – 70,000/70,000
STR – 350
VIT – 435
DEX – 400
INT – 375
WIS – 350
CHA – 410
LUK – 50
Reputation – 100
Obedience – 100
"Lord Aemon… It is good to see you walking about, but please do not strain yourself." he says with a pleasant tone and a pleased expression, the undercurrent of worry slightly poking through.
Due to my memories, the only reason why I am still alive is strictly because of my parents fighting the brunt of their forces to ensure my escape. My personal servant coming with me to ensure my safety as well. When I think more about my servant I am momentarily surprised at the identity and can hardly contain my joy at the amount of luck at managing to get someone like him.
"Yes, I actually don't feel that horrible today…" I say after a moment remembering that I had been mostly bedridden for the majority of my life due to being born with such a weak constitution. My parents had supposedly tried everything to cure it with a large range of medicines before finally stopping at a Phenex tear only to find it didn't help. As you can imagine obtaining a Phenix tear from a family in the 72 pillars while your own is a part of the Old Satan Faction was a feat in itself.
Though knowing now how to cure the debilitation, I am not surprised that it was never found. Simply working on strengthening my body through intensive exercise would have eventually gotten rid of it. Though that would have been an incredibly tall order since I was barely able to get out of bed most days. I aim to change that soon enough; I will begin my training as soon as possible if I can help it.
"I am glad, is there anything you require of me in the meantime. Lord Aemon?" He asks as I think for anything. Scanning my memories for anything I could use. Suddenly I am surprised at a certain bit of knowledge that directly relates to my family's fallout with the Old Satan Faction.
Apparently, the members of the Old Satan Faction didn't like the fact that I was weak in body, when I was born it was evident after doctors did magical scans of my body as all did to see the potential of every families heir. When the Old Satan Faction found out about my affliction, they completely disregarded the fact that I had incredible potential as a Devil and expressly stated their desire to have me killed. Even with the knowledge of just how difficult it is to reproduce as devils.
My parents objected of course stating that I should have a chance, the Faction leaders, however, stated they will only allow it with the presence of someone they trusted to oversee my development based on my glaring potential. That person being Katerea Leviathan, someone who is only slightly older than I am stayed with me most of my life from what I can remember.
It seems that she also developed a sort of soft spot for me as we had gotten rather close over the years. So close that she actually took the liberty of doing more than just overseeing my development and taking care of me while my parents figured out a way to cure me. She is the one to help my family escape, I am almost positive that her involvement was not disclosed.
I should send her a letter asking for a time to meet, having a living descendent of a leviathan on my side would be incredibly helpful. If I could just get her to switch to my side, it would be a huge deal. I also should send a letter explaining my current situation to the current Satan's and hopefully get a spot among the 72 Pillars. Now would be as good a time as any, before I was too Ill to even leave my bed let alone send a letter.
"I need you to send two letters, the first to Katerea to ask to meet sometime soon. Second, I want you to send a message to the Satan's in the 72 Pillars explaining my situation and ask for support, perhaps even secure a position among their ranks." I say slipping my foot inside a pair of slippers before barely holding in a sigh of ecstasy at just how soft and warm they are.
"Of course, my lord it will be done immediately." Says Sebastian as he bows low while bringing a hand to his chest. I only nod as he disappears in a burst of shadows.
As he leaves, I pick up a piece of paper and pencil, writing a brief letter to Sebastian when he gets back in case I am not here. Explaining that I went out momentarily and will be back shortly.
I would rather he not react recklessly at seeing me gone, while he does, I plan to do a little experimenting in the ID.
Holding my hand in the air above my head and mentally chant.
"ID Create: Zombie!"
Reality as I know it shatters like glass all around me before replacing itself with the surroundings and landscape of a city, one that looks to have seen better days judging from most of the dilapidated buildings and stores.
Upon arriving I almost instantaneously feel the hairs at the back of my neck rise, the feeling of wrongness clearly permeating throughout the city. Surveying the area, I find blood and half eaten corpses strewn about the street that I currently stand in. If I were to guess the city appears to have been in an apocalyptic like state for many years.
"Huhhh…" A breathy groan enters my ears, quickly turning to the sound I see a man in a tattered suit about 30 feet away stumbling as he makes his way in my direction. The skin on his face clearly rotting away exposing the Skull. A few fingers on his hands looked to have been torn off as well.
Judging by just how slow it is moving really makes me think that this is truly a beginner level dungeon.
"Observe…"
Title: Undead
Name – Zombie
Level - 3
HP – 900/900
MP – 0/0
STR – 12
VIT – 9
DEX – 3
INT – 1
WIS – 0
CHA – 1
LUK – 0
Wow truly pales in comparison to most of my stats, it is although quite discouraging to see its Vitality almost match mine. Releasing a breath as I focus on using my Telekinesis ability on a nearby piece of rubble.
Raising my hand and pointing it in the direction of the debris I intend to use as a weapon, a soft ball sized of concrete. Pushing my will into it as it shakes slightly before floating into the air, gaining a small grin at seeing it levitate a few feet above ground.
Turning my gaze back to the Zombie that seems to gain about 10 feet in distance. I picture launching the piece of concrete at the Zombie aiming for its head, almost as soon as the thought crosses my mind the debris launches in the direction as if thrown by a pro baseball player striking the Zombie square in the forehead swinging its head back as it falls to the ground.
738 damage dealt!
I momentarily sigh in slight frustration at seeing the damage dealt, it is not enough to instantly kill it. As expected, the Zombie begins to move once more, sitting up and bringing itself to its feet.
The debris I launched at it firmly imbedded into its forehead, caving it in slightly. I raise my hand once again and force my will on the rock once again with a grunt I force the object all the way through its head exploding it out from the other side as it falls in a heap.
406 Damage Dealt!
Zombie x1 killed! 50 xp rewarded.
Quest Received: Zombie Slaying!
Objective: Kill 50 zombies.
Progress: 1/50
Bonus Objective: Accomplish the main objective before leaving the ID.
Reward: 1500 xp, Zombie Slayer Title, 1500 credits.
Bonus Reward: 1500 xp, 1500 credits, 2 Gacha Tokens.
My first quest since becoming the gamer, and the relative ease it will take to complete it if I continue the current pace of things, though it may be a little slow. My thoughts are broken when a slight glint appears on the zombies body.
Swiping away the notification as I approach the dead Zombie watching as it turns to dust leaving behind what looks like a tooth and 20… credits. I use Telekinesis to levitate them and throw it into my inventory.
Telekinesis Leveled up!
Seeing the notification, I bring up my skill list to see the change to the skill.
Telekinesis (Active) [Level 2] – The ability to move, manipulate and interact with one's mind.
Current Liftable weight – 20 lbs.
Cost – 50/s
It looks like the liftable weight is all that changed, seems to have doubled the amount it was before. Perhaps it doubles each level? If it does that will climb to unimaginable levels when I max it out. Though it could just add 10 lbs. per level we will just have to see.
"hnnn…" Another Zombie sounds as it turns a corner and setting its sights on me.
"Well, no time like the present…" I mumble to myself as I pick up another nearby rock.
XXXXXX
Quest Complete: Zombie Slaying!
Objective: Kill 50 zombies.
Progress: 50/50
Bonus Objective: Accomplish the main objective before leaving the ID.
Reward: 1500 xp, Zombie Slayer Title, 1500 credits.
Bonus Reward: 1500 xp, 1500 credits, 2 Gacha Tokens.
Rewards Received:
Zombie Slayer Title, 3,000 xp, 3,000 Credits, 2 Gacha Tokens
Psychic Class leveled to 7!
Telekinesis Leveled to 12!
Barrier Leveled up to 3!
Watching the final zombie drop to the floor with a softball sized hole through its head. Exhaustion racking my body and mind, it seems the use of my Psychic skills really does a hamper on my mental stress. Kind of have a headache now with all of the use, it will most likely pass as I gain higher levels though I'm sure.
"Status…"
Title: Lord of the Aemon Clan
Name – Nero Aemon
Class – Psychic Level - 7
HP – 2,000/2,000 - (1,000/1,000)
MP – 8,000/8,000
STR – 25
VIT – 20 (10)
DEX – 25
INT – 65
WIS – 40
CHA – 25 (12.5)
LUK – 15
Credits: 4,000
I noticed that after killing around a dozen Zombies I found that they all drop a flat rate of 20 credits and a random separate item, mainly a material since I haven't gotten anything else. The materials included teeth, bones cloth, and human skin believe it or not.
I am only level 7, but the increase of my stats is already quite incredible compared to my original status. I had gained the skill Barrier at level 5, something I found incredibly useful as Zombies started to come out of the works in greater densities. So, while I focused on one, I could have the others stopped by my barrier until I can turn my attention to them.
Barrier (Active) [Level 3] – Creates an invisible dome like barrier that surrounds the user, withstands 1500 damage dealt to the barrier before breaking.
Cost – 500 mana
It seems that it increases by 250 extra life every level which is quite nice. Turns out that Telekinesis does actually only increase by 10 pounds per level as I thought. Though now that I can throw and lift objects at a maximum of 120 pounds these Zombies don't stand a chance.
Mini Boss has appeared!
Thump
Thump
Thump
Loud crunching footsteps are heard echoing throughout the street that I currently reside in. A totaled SUV to my right and a flipped sedan in front of me. Before I can even get eyes on the boss, I create a barrier around myself as a precaution, would rather not take any chances.
KREEEK*
The twisting and crunching of metal sounds, in response I tense unable to see anything as the source of the noise. The City streets' echo proving to be highly deceptive to the ears. Looking high and low as I try to find the source, only I find the same empty street as before save for the destroyed cars.
"RAAAGH!" A thunderous roar sounds from above this time for sure, looking upwards I see a large air conditioning unit dropped right on top of me.
Using Telekinesis to lessen the fall as much as possible in hopes to alleviate the damage done to my barrier. As soon as my will is pushed onto the metallic object its trajectory immediately slows to a stop. I guess it was well within the maximum amount of weight my Telekinesis to carry it. Floating the AC unit a few feet to my side and suspending it in the air while I wait.
A giant brute of a zombie jumps off of the ledge of a two-story building before landing in the middle of the street with a crunch. I stare at it taking in its form, its clothes in tatters as if its muscles had grown to much for the fabric to handle. Rotting and torn skin covering its body exposing its muscles beneath. Basically, looks like a gigantic zombified body builder.
"Observe…"
Title: Undead
Name – Zombie Brute
Level - 10
HP – 4,300/4,300
MP – 0/0
STR – 56
VIT – 43
DEX – 12
INT – 4
WIS – 0
CHA – 2
LUK – 0
I was expecting a bit more really… Though I should not underestimate being that the STR of this monstrosity doubles mine and could probably rip me in two. I will have to focus on keeping my barrier up so that doesn't happen, in fact it would probably be good to double up on barriers.
Quickly casting another barrier over my previous one acting like an extra layer of protection. Interestingly enough the Brutes stats show that its dexterity should enable it to move faster than it does. Right now it is moving at a steady fast walking pace.
The brute moves to the destroyed cars before grabbing onto a chunk of metal. Taking the small opportunity, I launch the AC unit at the Brute with devastating force striking it on the shoulder. The force stumbling it to over the vehicle, the metal from the AC unit rending its flesh and splitting it open making the Brute Screech in reaction.
1276 Damage Dealt
Name – Zombie Brute
Level - 10
HP – 3,024/4,300
In response it rips the door from the car throwing it in my direction, I smirk as I push my will into the door repelling it back into it, colliding with the monstrosity arm ripping open even more flesh. Another deafening roar sounds as it clutches its wounded arm.
823 Damage Dealt!
Name – Zombie Brute
HP – 2,201/4,300
The Brute eyes me with a look of hot rage a red glow radiating from them, I suddenly gain an idea as a sick smile graces my face. Raising my hand with my arm outstretch, forcing my will upon the Brute before curling my fingers. The Zombies eyes tear out of their sockets as its hands clutch at its empty holes.
The Eyes float towards me passing through the barrier harmlessly as they levitate in front of me. The pupils are incredibly cloudy making me wonder just how well the undead could even see in the first place. Squeezing my hand into a fist before the eyes crush into themselves with a sickening crunch. Casually tossing them aside as I eye the brute once again as it makes futile attempts to figure out where it is, focusing on hearing alone it seems.
Well, we can't have that...
Using my telekinesis, I generate the full amount of force it is capable of at its level centralizing it over its ears. An audible crunch permeating throughout the street. The brute falls to its knees before landing face first, blood pouring from the eyes, mouth, nose and ears.
Mini Boss Slain!
12,000 xp and 1 Gacha Token Received!
Psychic Leveled to 10!
Telekinesis Leveled to 13!
Barrier Leveled to 5!
Skill Invisible Blade Added
Invisible Blade (Active) [Level 1] – An extension of Telekinesis designed specifically as an Offensive Ability, the Blade can be held or elevated as an extension of the body. Length and width can be modified.
Damage – 500 INT
Cost - 100/s
The sudden influx of information overwhelming me a tad, skimming it over for a moment and checking the updated stats and skills. Turns out I can permanently keep up Telekinesis now. Would be really good for training that skill, probably the one I should focus on outside of combat while I use the new skill Invisible Blade and level that as much as possible as well.
Since it is my first real Offensive based skill, I should focus on it a bit more. Its potential as well is incredible, a blade that is not only adjustable in size but invisible as well. It would be irresponsible to say it won't be useful in the future.
Swiping away the notifications I look to the brute's corpse as it begins to disintegrate and leave a few stacks of credits, along with a noticeable glint.
Levitating the credits into my inventory seeing it as another clean 5,000 credits. The glint floats in front of my face revealing it to be a ring with a deep red ruby, using observe a window pops up with its information.
Ring of Strength – Grants the user 20 extra points to their STR stat when worn.
Grabbing the ring out of the air and slipping it onto my right middle finger, almost as soon as it is around my finger a rush of power fills me and newfound strength fills my muscles. A sigh escapes my mouth at the feeling, I would love to keep farming more of this dungeon, but I should probably get back since Sabastian should be done with the tasks, I had given him.
"ID Destroy…" The world shatters around me like glass as my bedroom comes back into view.
"Lord Aemon, your requests have been completed. Satan Leviathan has expressed her interest in meeting with you personally since Satan Lucifer had other matters to attend to. She had said that she will arrive within the next few days. The other message to Katerea was successfully delivered, she expressly stated her desire to meet with you as soon as possible. Even to go as far as saying she will meet you here at the castle tomorrow." He stats as I raise an eyebrow in surprise, I wasn't expecting her to meet so soon. But I guess the sooner the better, I would rather get as established as possible before the canon timeline starts.
"Thank you, Sebastian, that will be all." I say in response with a pleasant smile, apparently, my inner joy at seeing her again is filling me with anticipation. It seems my new memories are influencing my emotions a bit, well I am not particularly unhappy with it.
"Yes, Lord Aemon." He says before disappearing in shadows, I sigh as I straighten myself, shaking my exhaustion a bit.
"I guess I have some time to grind the ID until Katerea and Serafall arrive." I think to myself before opening the Zombie ID up and begin my training.
XXXXXX
Thump
"Huh… Huh… Fuck that really sucked." I say breathing heavily as sweat drenches my body. I have been training my body as much since yesterday. Not to mention grinding my skills as well in the Zombie ID. So far, I haven't killed anything other than tougher than the Mini Bosses and an obscene number of Zombies. I have noticed however that the density of regular Zombie encounters had skyrocketed compared to my first encounter.
Though this is the result of my training…
Decay (Active) [Level 15] - The fabled power of the Amon clan grants the user the ability to literally decay everything they touch. Upon first look it seemingly accelerates the time of any object or being touched.
Damage – 7000 INT /s
Cost - 1000/s
Telekinesis (Active) [Level 24] – The ability to move, manipulate and interact with one's mind.
Current Liftable weight – 240 lbs.
Cost – 50/s
Barrier (Active) [Level 16] – Creates an invisible dome like barrier that surrounds the user, withstands 3,500 damage dealt to the barrier before breaking.
Cost – 500
Invisible Blade (Active) [Level 25] – An extension of Telekinesis designed specifically as an Offensive Ability, the Blade can be held or elevated as an extension of the body. Length and width can be modified.
Damage – 6,500 INT
Cost - 100/s
Second Skin (Active) [Level 12] – Through Telekinesis you are able to create a shield around your skin, a more advanced version of the Barrier skill. It moves as you move and protects you from incoming damage
Health - 7500
Cost – 1500
Most Updated
Title: Lord of the Aemon Clan
Name – Nero Aemon
Class – Psychic Level - 16
HP – 3,100/3,100 - (1,550/1,550) (15/s)
MP – 15,200/15,200 (135/s)
STR – 51
VIT – 31 (15)
DEX – 32
INT – 135
WIS – 76
CHA – 25 (12.5)
LUK – 15
Credits: 146,280
I gained the skill Second Skin at level 15 of Psychic and managed to gain a few more points in VIT by training my body relentlessly. Also gaining a few points in DEX and STR as a welcome side effect. My skills have grown in leaps and bounds after grinding in the ID. Though my progress has significantly stagnated, as it seems no matter how large the hordes of undead that appear in the ID it still has slow rates of progress.
My Clan ability proved to be incredibly overpowered, but costly all the same. It would actually disintegrate literally anything I touched. That I found was its only weakness, having to be in physical contact with something for it to actually work. But it is still incredible, if I managed to progress my Telekinesis a bit more, I may be able to suspend someone's ability to move and then use my Decay ability.
I have noticed that my body hasn't been quite as weak, and the burden has lessened a bit. On another note, I have gained a few items from the brutes I quickly found that they are not as common as I thought. I easily killed a dozen of them, but I only gained 3 items including the Ring I received before and a single Gacha Token.
Grimoire of Necromancy – This Book is ancient and crafted of human skin. It is full of spells, research and knowledge of the Necromantic arts. Boosts Necromancy Class and Skill progress when holding this book in your hand.
Silver Bracelet of Mana – A snugly fitting silver bracelet enchanted with a well of mana. While equipped it gives the wearer a boost to their mana reserves by 2000
The bracelet is a bit useful but as of this moment, the Grimoire of Necromancy doesn't provide any use at least until I choose to take on the Necromancy Class it will stay in my inventory. As I skim through my inventory, I notice the 3 Gacha Tokens I still have yet to use.
"No time like the present I guess…" I mumble under my breath as I use them, four slot machine wheels appear with blank tiles as they begin to spin rapidly until they stop, a window appearing displaying my rewards.
Time Stone – One of Six Infinity stone, this one bearing the ability to manipulate time itself and the places beyond time. Gives the user the ability to manipulate time to their whims. (Requirements for use are 1500 INT, WIS and VIT) (Yes, I actually rolled and landed on this item, I can't even believe it but to balance things out I put requirements for use so Nero can't just start tearing shit up from it.)
Gold Ring – Just a plain gold signet ring bearing the insignia of a dragon. Other than that, there isn't anything special about it.
iPhone – A phone with unlimited battery, can be used to connect throughout all universes and is an indestructible object. Nothing can possibly scratch or break it.
Covetous Silver Serpent Ring – A silver Ring depicting a snake that could have been but never was a dragon. Gives a 35% increase in xp gained.
Quest Received: Path to Ultimate Power
Objective: Collect all of the Infinity Stones and the Infinity Gauntlet.
Reward: 100,000,000 xp, ?, ?
My shock at seeing the Time Stone pop up nearly makes me faint. Something so incredibly appearing at my first draw of the Gacha, clearly, my Loved by Lady Luck perk is working overtime. It is too bad that I can't use it and probably won't for a while, so it will have to go in my inventory for the time being.
The quest is certainly an eye catcher, though I doubt I will ever complete it unless I actively set out to do so. The only real way for me to complete it is to either get incredibly lucky in the Gacha or actively purchase them in the store, although I doubt I could ever afford to even purchase them any time soon.
The gold ring and iPhone face a similar fate to the Time Stone and get tossed inside my inventory; the Covetous Silver Serpent ring will prove incredibly useful in the face of my current stagnation. Maybe soon I may be able to face the final boss of the Zombie ID and unlock a new ID?
I slip on the ring on my left middle finger before rising up to my feet. Looking in the mirror I dare say that I look a bit healthier than before but still sickly all the same. Though I do happen to feel a bit healthier, moving is not as taxing as usual, and overall perpetual exhaustion has lightened some.
I could only imagine how I will feel when I finally hit 50 VIT and get rid of my flaw altogether. Sighing as I sit up, taking in my room that I have holed myself up in for the past day. Spotless in appearance and not a single speck of dust or misplaced as everything is placed perfectly straight and symmetrical. Exactly the way I like it, or at least the way my memories say I like it, but I can't lie and say I don't really appreciate how satisfying it is to have everything so… in place.
Before I can do anything else Sebastian appears a few feet in front of me.
"Lord Aemon, Katerea Leviathan has arrived and is waiting for you in the common area." He states as a feeling of happiness begins to swell in my chest involuntarily.
"Thank you, Sebastian, tell her that I will be there in a moment. I must make myself presentable, a reunion shouldn't be spoiled by poor hygiene." I chuckle as I give my self a smell, Sebastian gives a good natured chuckle before responding.
"I doubt she would mind Lord Aemon; she seems to be shaking with anticipation at the thought of seeing you again." He says with a knowing look on his face.
"Bah, just go tell her I will be there in a moment." I say with a smirk as he gives a bow.
"It will be done." He says before disappearing.
I strip my clothing off before rinsing the sweat and grime before exiting and putting on a grey long sleeve shirt and black pants. I slip on my comfortable slippers as well before giving myself a spritz of cologne, looking in the mirror I do a few touch-ups on my hair before deeming myself presentable.
With a breath I move to the large double doors at the other end of my room, pushing them open leading into an elaborately carved out hallway with various paintings and busts carved out of marble. It only takes me a few minutes of walking through the castle to the common area. I stop just short of the doors before I take a breath preparing myself mentally. If my memories are correct, she can be a tad bit overbearing.
As soon as I push the doors open and step inside, I am immediately tackled and enveloped between two large soft cushions.
"Gahk!" I choke out.
"Oh, Nero! I am so sorry about what happened to your parents, it is all my fault! Please forgive me!" She sniffles out as she constricts tighter around my face cutting of my oxygen flow.
"Please Lady Leviathan, as you know you must be careful with Lord Aemon." Sebastian says coming to the rescue as Katerea gasps before releasing me. I take deep breaths drinking up as much air as possible.
"Ah! Nero, I am sorry, I just couldn't help myself when I saw you. You must hate me…" She says as a look of despair adorns her beautiful face, a rainy thundercloud practically forming over her head.
"Please Kat, calm down I don't blame you for what happened, if anything it was all the Old Satan Factions fault. I should thank you for helping me get out of there clutches." I say making her mood immediately brightens as her lip begins to quiver before she suddenly embraces me again.
"Oh, what did I do to deserve someone like you Nero!" She shouts joyously.
Yep, this is exactly how my memories display her behavior towards me, though she seems to turn quite cold to everyone else. How this came about I honestly couldn't give you an answer, but I will be damned if I don't take advantage of it.
Managing to get out of her clutches as I take a seat on a nearby couch with a table next to it. Sighing out a breath of relief, Katerea sits down closely next to me with a doting expression.
"How are you feeling? Are you eating well? Are you sleeping well?" She fires off questions before I give her a placating gesture.
"Yes to all three, in fact I haven't felt this good in ages. But I wanted to bring up some other matters that are important." I say gaining her undivided attention. Sebastian appears at the foot of the table with tea in hand placing a cup in front of us both, I take a second to sip. A warmth radiating through my soul at the flavor.
"Of course, anything." She says almost immediately. Man I really don't know how exactly I got her rapped around my pinky. Props to young Nero, my man is a lady killer.
"I first must know, does the Old Satan Faction know anything about your involvement of my defection?" I say making her wince slightly before answering.
"I think they are starting to get suspicious yes. But you don't need to worry about me Nero." She says with a sheepish expression, I on the other hand don't buy it.
"Them having even an ounce of suspicion pointed in your direction is absolutely unacceptable. I want you to leave the Faction and stay with me, I have no one else left besides you and I couldn't bear it if I lost you Kat." I say laying it on pretty thick and seeing her physically deflate in defeat. I know being a part of the Old Satan Faction is very important to her, but I am ultimately betting on her valuing me more than that though.
"Even if I leave and stay with you, how could we even defend ourselves against the entirety of the Old Satan Faction ourselves. While yes, I am very strong, I still don't think we can do it Nero…" She says weakly, as I put on a thoughtful expression. She didn't know the extent of my families plans to join the 72 Pillars it seems.
"I am about to say something you probably don't want to hear but promise me you won't get angry, okay?" I ask looking into her eyes waiting for her answer.
"Okay… It would be hard for me to get mad at you but go ahead." She says looking at me confused, I take a breath before answering.
"I sent out a letter to the Satan's of the 72 Pillars asking for help, and potentially joining their faction." I say watching as Katerea's expression turns to one of betrayal. It honestly stings to see her look at me like that. Her mouth opens and closes unable to form words
"How… How could you do that? You know how I feel about them, they defile the name of Satan itself." She says standing looking down at me with a pained expression. I rise up to meet her, my height being a few inches taller, I rest both of my hands on either side of her face as I look into her purple eyes.
"I know but that doesn't change the fact that I need help, and there is no one else but them. If they accept my Clan into the 72 pillars trust me, I plan to rise up in power and become a figurehead of the devil society. One they can't ignore, and once that happens do you know who will be at my side?" I ask as her purple eyes never leave my red, as if enchanted by them.
"N-No…" she stutters out her face getting closer to mine, her lips parting slightly.
"You…" I say before our lips connect in a heated exchange, the softness of her lips and the sweet taste practically intoxicating. She moans into the kiss as she moves deeper, inserting her tongue as my own meets hers in a duel for dominance. This continues for a moment before I separate us, her breath labored and a fierce blush rests on her cheeks.
"So, what do you say? You with me?" I ask as she thinks on it a moment, I absentmindedly stroke her cheek with my thumb encouraging her answer.
"Yes… I am with you. But you must give me some time to sort out my affairs. I will have my family's wealth sent over along with our artifacts. To do this I need a week tops to have it done without the Satan faction finding out. You do understand how huge of a decision is right?" She says surprising me, I didn't expect to have her bring her families assets with her. But I guess it makes sense, she doesn't want to leave anything important behind for the Satan faction.
"I understand, and it means a lot to me knowing that you are willing to sacrifice this much for me. I don't know how I could ever repay you." I say with a smile, and I could say I honestly mean it. Her power will be a big boon. Her face lights up in a heated blush after hearing my last words.
"As repayment, I want you to marry me and give me a child." She says whispering out her answer and avoiding my gaze, but I hear it clearly. I am momentarily stunned at her answer, but I relax, thinking about it.
"Okay… When are negotiations are finished with the 72 Pillars we will join our houses in marriage and I will work in earnest to give you a child. That is if you will have me." I say with a small smile as she beams from my response.
Quest Received: Harem King!
Objectives: Have 8 women in your harem.
Bonus Objective: Have 12 or more before the Leaders' Summit Begins.
Reward: Title Harem King, 1,000,000 xp,?,?,?
Bonus Reward: ?,?,?
"This is unexpected…" I think as Katerea immediately embraces me, glee apparent in her features.