---
Chapter 11: Bonds, Eggs, and System Insight
Elric wiped the sweat from his brow, eyeing the loot from the defeated bandits. The fight had been easier than he expected, but there was still a lingering tension in the air. Something felt different. The Beast Sense skill pulsed faintly, almost like it was responding to an unseen presence.
BoomBoom fluttered around Elric's head, chirping excitedly. The tiny chick was still riding the high from their victory, shooting small bursts of fire into the air.
System Alert:
> Enemy Encountered: Bandit Archer (Lv. 5)
Skill Available: [Identify Threats]
Action Required: Use System Skill to analyze enemy strength.
Elric raised an eyebrow. "What's this?"
> You have unlocked the skill [Identify Threats]. This skill allows you to recognize the strength and rank of any enemy above level 5. It also displays their weaknesses, combat tendencies, and possible loot.
"Oh, that's convenient," Elric grinned. "Let's see what we've got here."
---
[System Skill: Identify Threats Activated]
---
Target: Bandit Archer (Lv. 5)
Health: 95/95
Strength: 35
Weakness: Weak to fire-based attacks.
Loot: [Feathered Bow (Common)], [Beast Core (Cracked)]
Combat Tendencies: Will dodge long-range attacks and retaliate with rapid-fire arrows. Prefers to stay at range.
---
"Ah, I see. Weak to fire, huh?" Elric said to himself, looking at BoomBoom. "I think you'll be perfect for this job."
BoomBoom chirped once, as if acknowledging the plan, and launched a flame towards the Bandit Archer. The bandit tried to dodge, but the fire was too fast.
Loot Drop:
Enemy Defeated: Bandit Archer (Lv. 5)
+100 EXP | +10 SP | Loot: [Feathered Bow (Common)], [Beast Core (Cracked)]
---
As Elric scanned the battlefield, something else caught his eye. A faint, glowing egg lay among the fallen bandits. It was pulsating softly, emitting a faint warmth.
"What is this…?" Elric muttered, kneeling to inspect it.
> System Alert: [Beast Egg Detected]
Description: This is a Beast Egg. It is capable of hatching into a creature that may bond with you. The type of creature that hatches depends on the environment and the level of the egg.
> Do you wish to bond with this egg? Y/N
Elric's heart raced. A beast egg?
"Yes," he said out loud. "I'll take my chances."
---
[System Skill: Bonding]
---
The egg trembled before it cracked open, a warm light spilling from within. Inside, a small creature slowly emerged—a tiny fire lizard with glowing scales.
> Bonding Successful: Fire Lizard (Lv. 1) obtained!
New Beast Bonded: Fire Lizard
Skill Unlocked: [Flame Burst (Lv. 1)]
Effect: Fires a concentrated burst of flame at a target. Cooldown: 30 seconds.
---
Elric couldn't contain his grin. "Well, I think we've got ourselves a new friend."
BoomBoom puffed his chest in pride, as if claiming dominance over the fire lizard. The two small beasts stared at each other, sizing each other up. Then, without warning, they both farted fire at the same time, creating a brief firestorm of chaos.
Grandpa, watching from the sidelines, raised an eyebrow. "Your beasts are… special."
"They're talented," Elric said, patting his new fire lizard on the head. "This one's got potential."
---
Current Stats
Name: Elric
Class: [Legendary Shepherd – Tier 0]
Level: 6
Skills:
• Herd Call (Lv. 1)
• Beast Sense (Lv. 1)
• [Flame Burst (Lv. 1)]
System Points: 40
Beasts Bonded:
• BoomBoom (Lv. ???)
• Fire Lizard (Lv. 1)
---
As they continued their journey, the Fire Lizard perched on Elric's shoulder, its small form radiating heat. Elric could feel the bond growing stronger with every step.
---
Beast Bond Panel:
> Fire Lizard (Lv. 1)
Bond Strength: 5%
Skills: Flame Burst (Lv. 1)
Potential: Unknown
---
The more Elric used Beast Sense, the clearer it became that his connection to his beasts wasn't just about power—it was about understanding them. They were partners in this strange world, their fates intertwined with his.
"I wonder how many more of these eggs are out there," Elric mused, eyes glinting. "Guess we'll find out soon enough."
> Warning: The next area is inhabited by higher-level beasts. Prepare accordingly.
Grandpa's voice interrupted his thoughts. "We're getting close to the border. Monsters are stronger there. Keep your head in the game."
---
Chapter 12: The Beast Clash and Rising Strength
The soft hum of the world around them shifted, the air growing thicker as they neared the border of the village's protection. Elric could feel it—something was off. The feeling that had been gnawing at him all day settled heavier in his chest. The forest, usually a place of calm, seemed tense, as if the very trees themselves were holding their breath.
"Stay sharp," Grandpa muttered from behind him, his voice laced with a quiet tension. "We're near the Wilds now. Beasts here are stronger, more territorial. They won't hesitate."
Elric nodded, feeling the weight of the environment press on his shoulders. His beasts, BoomBoom and the newly bonded Fire Lizard, perched attentively by his sides, sensing the change as well. The little lizard flicked its tail nervously, while BoomBoom huddled close to Elric's ear, chirping a low warning.
"Time to test out our new skills," Elric said with a grin, adjusting his stance and activating his Beast Sense. The surroundings around him grew clearer, like a filter had been removed from his vision. He could feel the faint presence of the beasts nearby, their forms hidden but their energy unmistakable.
---
System Alert: Beast Encounter Detected
Target(s): Shadow Wolf Pack (Lv. 7-8)
Estimated Threat Level: High
Skill Available: [Identify Threats]
---
The System's voice echoed in his mind, and Elric immediately activated Identify Threats.
---
[System Skill: Identify Threats Activated]
---
Target 1: Shadow Wolf (Lv. 7)
Health: 120/120
Strength: 50
Weakness: Vulnerable to fire-based attacks, but highly resistant to physical damage.
Loot: [Shadow Fang (Common)], [Beast Core (Cracked)]
Combat Tendencies: Stealthy. Prefers ambush tactics and packs together to overwhelm enemies.
---
Target 2: Shadow Wolf (Lv. 8)
Health: 150/150
Strength: 60
Weakness: Vulnerable to fire and lightning-based attacks.
Loot: [Shadow Claw (Common)], [Beast Core (Cracked)]
Combat Tendencies: Aggressive. Will charge at enemies head-on when injured. High endurance and speed.
---
"Well, these are no pushovers," Elric muttered to himself. The pack had at least three more members hiding in the trees, and their power levels were higher than what he had dealt with so far.
He glanced at BoomBoom, who squawked eagerly, flames already flickering from the little bird's body. Then his eyes shifted to his Fire Lizard, whose body shimmered with faint red scales, an aura of heat emanating from it.
"I think we need some firepower," Elric said with a grin, positioning his beasts carefully. "BoomBoom, Flame Burst. Fire Lizard, you're up next with your own flame. Let's cook 'em."
BoomBoom chirped loudly, its tiny wings flapping with purpose. A surge of flame shot forward, aimed directly at the Shadow Wolf (Lv. 7). The wolf attempted to dodge, but the fire was fast, striking its side and causing a loud, pained howl.
The Fire Lizard followed suit, its own Flame Burst aimed at the same target. This time, the wolf's fur caught fire, its growls turning into frantic, burning screams.
Beast Core Dropped: Shadow Wolf (Lv. 7)
+100 EXP | Loot: [Shadow Fang (Common)], [Beast Core (Cracked)]
---
But the fight wasn't over.
With a growl, the Shadow Wolf (Lv. 8) charged, its claws slashing at Elric's Fire Lizard. The smaller creature barely had time to dodge, but it wasn't fast enough. A slash across its back sent it tumbling, squealing in pain.
"Hey! Get away from my lizard!" Elric shouted, summoning all of his courage. He dashed forward, weaving through the trees to get closer to the wolf. With a quick mental command, he activated Herd Call—summoning BoomBoom to return to him.
The little chick flew overhead, trailing fire as it dove straight into the Shadow Wolf (Lv. 8), burning the beast's fur even as it lashed out with its claws.
Beast Core Dropped: Shadow Wolf (Lv. 8)
+200 EXP | Loot: [Shadow Claw (Common)], [Beast Core (Cracked)]
---
With the immediate threat of the wolves dealt with, Elric surveyed the battlefield. The other wolves hadn't made a move yet, but the tension was thick.
"Let's finish this," Elric said, his voice a low growl as he readied his next move.
---
System Skill: [Loot & Skill Upgrade]
New Skill Unlocked: [Herd Command (Lv. 1)]
Effect: You can now command bonded beasts to coordinate attacks and defense. Increases coordination and damage output by 10%.
Beast Core Upgrade: You can use Beast Cores to enhance your beasts' abilities or evolve them into stronger forms.
---
Elric grinned. "This just keeps getting better."
His focus turned back to the pack. They weren't leaving yet. The wolves were smart, circling, waiting for the right moment to strike.
"BoomBoom, Fire Lizard, get ready for round two," Elric said, his eyes narrowing. "We're going to test their defenses."
---
The pack of wolves slowly inched closer, watching for an opening. Elric could feel his heart thudding against his chest. His beasts stood with him, ready for the next assault.
---
Current Stats
Name: Elric
Class: [Legendary Shepherd – Tier 0]
Level: 6
Skills:
• Herd Call (Lv. 1)
• Beast Sense (Lv. 1)
• [Flame Burst (Lv. 1)]
• [Herd Command (Lv. 1)]
System Points: 60
Beasts Bonded:
• BoomBoom (Lv. ???)
• Fire Lizard (Lv. 1
Chapter 13: The Forest of Shadows and Unforeseen Growth
Elric stood, eyes narrowed, watching the remaining Shadow Wolves circle around him. The creatures were clever, sizing him up as they prepared to charge once more. He could feel the familiar rush of adrenaline coursing through his veins, his instincts sharpening as the battle approached its next phase. The air around them was thick with tension.
"BoomBoom, stay close," Elric muttered, his hands instinctively tightening around the Beast Core he had just collected from the previous wolf. He glanced at the little chick perched on his shoulder, then at the Fire Lizard, whose body was still glowing faintly from the earlier clash. "This is the moment we've been waiting for."
---
System Alert: Beast Encounter Progressing
Target(s): Shadow Wolf Pack (Lv. 8, 9)
Estimated Threat Level: High
---
With a mental command, Elric activated Herd Command. His beasts were ready.
---
[System Skill: Herd Command (Lv. 1) Activated]
Effect: Coordination between bonded beasts increased by 10%. BoomBoom and Fire Lizard's attack damage boosted by 10% for 60 seconds.
---
BoomBoom chirped excitedly, a streak of flames following the little bird's form as it darted toward the nearest Shadow Wolf. The fire lit up the clearing, scorching the earth beneath the beast's feet as the Shadow Wolf tried to evade, but failed. The flames were relentless, licking at the wolf's fur, burning it away.
Meanwhile, the Fire Lizard, emboldened by the power flowing through Elric's bond with it, charged at another wolf, its fiery tail leaving trails of molten heat in its wake. The Shadow Wolf roared, leaping at the Lizard in a desperate attempt to overpower it.
"Don't give them a chance," Elric ordered, his voice calm and commanding.
The Fire Lizard responded by unleashing a Flame Burst, its entire body glowing as a concentrated ball of fire shot out at the charging beast. The wolf attempted to dodge, but it was too slow. The fire exploded against the wolf's chest, causing it to yelp in pain before collapsing onto the ground, charred and smoking.
---
Beast Core Dropped: Shadow Wolf (Lv. 8)
+200 EXP | Loot: [Shadow Claw (Common)], [Beast Core (Cracked)]
---
System Skill Upgrade Unlocked:
[Flame Burst (Lv. 2)] – Increases fire damage by 20%. The radius of the attack is expanded.
---
With the pack's leader down, the remaining wolves hesitated for just a moment—a crack in their coordinated attack. Elric seized the opportunity.
"Now!" Elric shouted. "BoomBoom, Fire Lizard, finish them off!"
BoomBoom, his trusted companion, obeyed without hesitation, launching another Flame Burst at the remaining Shadow Wolf. The beast howled as the flames engulfed it, its fur igniting.
Meanwhile, the Fire Lizard wasn't going to let the other wolf escape. It shot forward like a streak of fire, leaving no space for the creature to flee. It pounced, its sharp claws ripping into the wolf's hide, finishing it off with a quick and brutal strike.
---
Beast Core Dropped: Shadow Wolf (Lv. 9)
+250 EXP | Loot: [Shadow Fang (Rare)], [Beast Core (Cracked)]
---
The last wolf collapsed with a whimper, the battle drawing to a close. Elric wiped the sweat from his brow, breathing heavily as he surveyed the battlefield. His heart raced, but he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride.
He had done it. He had taken down the pack—he and his beasts, working in perfect harmony.
---
System Alert:
Battle Complete. Total EXP Gained: +850
Beast Core Summary: Total: 3 (Cracked)
Loot Summary: [Shadow Fang (Common) x 2], [Shadow Claw (Common) x 1], [Shadow Fang (Rare)]
---
"That was a lot easier than I thought," Elric said, panting but grinning. "You guys were amazing."
BoomBoom flapped its wings happily, chirping as flames flickered around its tiny body. The Fire Lizard gave a contented hiss, its body relaxing as the heat around it dissipated.
[System Skill: Herd Command (Lv. 2) Unlocked]
Effect: Bonded beasts now receive a 20% damage boost, and the coordination between beasts increases by 20%.
Elric couldn't believe how much he had grown in such a short time. Herd Command was becoming more powerful, his beasts more synchronized with each battle. But there was more work to be done.
He knelt down and picked up the Beast Cores, feeling their pulsing energy. "We need to use these to enhance you guys," he said, looking at BoomBoom and the Fire Lizard. "Let's make you stronger."
With a quick thought, Elric opened his System menu.
---
[System Menu]
Beast Core Inventory: 3 (Cracked)
Beasts Bonded:
• BoomBoom (Lv. 2)
• Fire Lizard (Lv. 1)
Available Actions:
• Enhance Beast (BoomBoom)
• Enhance Beast (Fire Lizard)
• Upgrade Beast Core
---
Elric hesitated, weighing his options. Should he enhance his already powerful BoomBoom, or should he boost the Fire Lizard, whose potential still felt untapped?
After a brief moment, Elric decided. The Fire Lizard had shown great promise, and with the right boost, it could become even more powerful.
"Let's upgrade you," Elric muttered, selecting Enhance Beast (Fire Lizard).
---
Enhance Beast: Fire Lizard (Lv. 1) | Cost: 1 Beast Core (Cracked)
---
The Fire Lizard glowed briefly as the energy from the Beast Core surged through it. Its form shimmered, scales hardening, and its flames grew brighter, more intense.
---
Fire Lizard Evolution Complete.
New Skill Unlocked: [Flame Fury (Lv. 1)]
Effect: A powerful flame attack that engulfs the target in a blaze of fire. Deals 30% more damage than Flame Burst.
---
Elric smiled, feeling his bond with the creature deepen. The Fire Lizard was now even stronger, its potential unleashed.
---
System Update:
Beast Level Progression:
• BoomBoom: Lv. 2 (+100 EXP)
• Fire Lizard: Lv. 2 (+200 EXP)
New Skills Unlocked:
• [Flame Fury (Lv. 1)]
• [Flame Burst (Lv. 2)]
---
"Now we're ready," Elric said, standing up and brushing off his pants. "Next step, let's head back and see what other upgrades we can get."
But before he could make his move, a rustling noise came from behind him. He turned just in time to see a familiar figure stepping out of the shadows.
"Nice work, kid," Grandpa said, his voice gruff but proud. "Looks like you're making some real progress."
Elric grinned. "Thanks, Grandpa. But