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(Note: This chapter is MUCH LONGER than usual.)
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-[Just Outside Onibashira Palace]-
The air was cool and still, a deceptive calm hanging just outside the entrance of the Onibashira Palace. As Hoshigari's Nebula Stride Grav-Motorcycle rolled to a smooth halt, its thrumming core dimmed with a gentle whine. Beside it, the Aqua Fang Wolf gave a low, rumbling growl before lowering its head. Hoshigari, Yukinox, Elodie, and Sushi Slice dismounted in synchronized motion, their steps echoing across the cobbled courtyard.
Makidon stood waiting, leaning against a pillar with her arms crossed and axe strapped across her back, the heavy weapon resting against the wall like a slumbering beast.
"You were quick," Hoshigari noted, eyeing her casually.
Makidon grinned. "I was actually nearby when the notification popped. Figured I'd beat the line. So... shall we?"
"Let's." Hoshigari gave a short nod, snapping his fingers.
[Mount Recalled: Nebula Stride Ichiban Grav-Motorcycle]
Yukinox mirrored him with her own hand gesture.
[Mount Recalled: Aqua Fang Wolf]
With Noctatsu perched lazily on his shoulder and Elodie walking alongside, the group made their way through the palace gates, shadows from the towering banners dancing above them.
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-[Onibashira Palace (Top Floor Meeting Room)]-
The room pulsed with quiet authority. Illuminated by floating flame lanterns and laced with imperial Oni motifs, the grand chamber housed a sleek obsidian table that stretched toward a throne-like seat at the far end.
Sitting regally with an air of casual dominance was Massimo Yomotsuhana—Don Massi. He scrolled through a holographic screen interface with his index and middle fingers, pausing every so often to analyze shifting intel.
"Ah, you all finally arrived. Please, take a seat," Don Massi welcomed, his voice calm but commanding.
The group filed in and took their respective seats without a word, the weight of anticipation palpable.
Hoshigari leaned forward, elbows resting on the table. "Don Massi, why have you called us here?"
The King of Yomotsuhana gave a brief nod, then stood, swiping the screen with an elegant motion. A large, shimmering holographic map unfolded above the table. Landmasses, frost-bitten peaks, and swirling snowstorms slowly rotated in the air.
"Here is a mission I have for you," Don Massi said, hands clasped behind his back. "Complete it, and you will be handsomely rewarded."
He expanded the image of a snow-laden mountain range, the label Snowcrest Vale glowing faintly.
"From the reports gathered by our Yomotsuhana Roaming Oni Scouts," he began, his voice dropping slightly in tone, "you must understand the severity of what lies ahead. Snowcrest Vale is more than just cold—it's desolation wrapped in white fury. Frozen winds, blizzards without mercy."
The map zoomed to the mountainous path. Peaks crackled with simulated snowstorms. Gliders blinked out one by one, failing in the simulation.
"Standard mounts will falter. Gliders will fail. You'll proceed on foot. Cold-resistant coats are non-negotiable. Prolonged exposure will freeze your joints, slow your reaction time, and... possibly worse."
A flick of his finger, and enemy icons appeared across the trail.
"Expect resistance. Ice Golems. Snow Apes. Frost Wolves. You won't reach the village without bleeding."
The map shifted to the humble structure of Snowcrest Vale, tucked like a secret among towering cliffs. Don Massi tapped on the bell tower.
"At the bell tower, you'll meet Evelith—a healer. Her Tattered Tome of Reprieve was stolen. Without it, her patients perish. Your mission is to recover it."
He scrolled to Azulthar Heights, where shattered ruins loomed over the clouds like a broken crown.
"The thief is Crel Rynveil. A black-winged humanoid, armed with teleportation and shadow manipulation. He won't fight fair. Engage with caution, and recover the tome."
Don Massi's fingers slowed over a swirling crystal—faintly glowing with azure fractals.
"Once you return the tome, Evelith will reward you. More importantly, she will gift you a runic stone. Use it on the ceremonial floor at the summit."
He paused. The map now shimmered, revealing the image of a blurry colossal Winged Sky Worm, coiled like a storm around islands in the clouds.
"This stone will open the portal—one bound by light, wind, and fractals. It will launch you into the Sky Islands of Zephyrosa. There, you will face Caelazion."
The group stared at the image, awed. The dragon-like form of Caelazion wrapped through skies like a force of nature.
"What lies beyond... even I cannot say," Don Massi murmured. "But that portal is your only way to reach it. Prepare."
With one final swipe, the projection vanished. Silence followed.
Don Massi turned from the interface and faced them fully. "I've transmitted this mission report to your logs. You are free to begin whenever you choose."
He raised a hand in dismissal.
"That is all. Dismissed."
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-[Starlight Recoil Clan Building (Top Floor Meeting Room)]-
The soft hum of Exo-Arcana's ambiance echoed through the high-tech wooden walls of the Starlight Recoil clan building. Inside the meeting room on the top floor—sleek, spacious, and filled with warm light panels reflecting off polished crimson floors—the group reconvened around the oval holo-table. The familiar gentle flicker of data streams shimmered in the center.
Sushi Slice stood at the head of the table, her twin braids draped neatly over her shoulders. With a simple flick of her fingers, a widescreen hologram expanded and came to life before them, projecting a rotating terrain model of Snowcrest Vale, dotted with quest markers and climate overlays.
"So," Sushi Slice began, her voice calm but focused, "as Don Massi said, our destination is Snowcrest Vale. It's almost a sub-zero zone, constantly engulfed in blizzards. We'll need cold-resistant gear to even survive the ascent."
She gestured at the display, highlighting a list of recommended items.
"Cold-resistant coats, thermal scarves, and windproof goggles. You all have enough Credits to afford those. Make it your first priority."
Makidon raised her hand dramatically as she gave a mischievous pout.
"Aww~ I thought you'd buy them for us, oh almighty leader of ours~"
Sushi Slice gave her a flat stare and pointed at her sternly. "Don't even start, Maki."
"Just kidding!~" Makidon chuckled, giving a peace sign with a cheeky grin.
The air lightened with that brief exchange, but Sushi Slice quickly refocused them.
"Anyway. While trekking up the mountain, we'll encounter frost beasts—Ice Golems, Snow Apes, Frost Wolves. Expect ambushes. Fire-based arcana weaponry will be crucial."
Hoshigari leaned back in his seat, arms crossed. Noctatsu sat perched like a stone sentinel on his shoulder. He murmured to himself, "Ebonflame's good for precision, but I need AOE... Maybe a flamethrower-type cannon. There's gotta be a Hand-Held Cannon with fire spray..."
Just then, the door slid open with a soft whoosh.
Elodie peeked in. "The Oni blacksmith and potion vendor have arrived. They've set up at the lobby floor."
Yukinox tilted her head slightly. "Wait—stationed here?"
Sushi Slice nodded. "Yeah. With Elodie's help, I hired them. According to her, they're the best Oni craftspeople we could get. They'll stay stationed in the lobby full-time. We're covering their monthly fee."
Hoshigari gave a nod of approval. "That saves time on gear work. No more running back out for upgrades."
"And I can get my potions right downstairs? YES!" Makidon laughed. "Blessed be your budgeting skills, our great braided leader!"
Sushi Slice rolled her eyes but smiled slightly. "Alright. Meeting adjourned. Everyone's free to go about their business. But prep thoroughly. You have four days before we begin our mission. That's four days to upgrade, gear up, and strategize."
She swiped her hand through the holographic interface, making it dissipate into sparks of light. Then she returned to her personal desk near the window, opening a detailed blueprint of an Odachi—a new design, perhaps for a storm-cleaving arcana blade.
The rest of the party trickled out and did their own thing—each moving to handle their own part of the preparations. Whether forging new weapons, enhancing old ones, buying resistance gear, or simply refining skills—every second of those four days would be critical.
The Apex Paragon of Sky loomed ahead. And they would meet it ready.
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Let's start with Hoshigari's side of the story...
-[Starlight Recoil Clan Building (Lobby Floor - Ultyr's Forgery Station)]-
The gentle thrum of arcane machinery echoed softly through the newly refurbished lobby of the Starlight Recoil clan building. At the side of it all stood the Oni Blacksmith's station—an amalgam of forge, tech-workbench, and rune-inscribed anvil—all emanating raw heat and unrefined power.
Hoshigari stepped forward, eyes fixed on the towering figure behind the anvil. Ultyr, a brawny Oni with ember-brown skin, a braided white beard, and a smith's apron scorched from years of relentless hammering, looked up with a wide grin. His tusks protruded slightly, but his welcoming demeanor was impossible to mistake.
"Heya, do you think you would know a flamethrower-like Hand-Held Cannon you could forge?" Hoshigari asked, resting his elbow on the counter.
Ultyr's booming voice rumbled out, coated in a thick southern accent. "Ah, Mr. Hoshigari! Yer lookin' for a flamethrower-like Hand-Held Cannon, huh? Let's see here..."
With one hand, Ultyr summoned a wide holographic blueprint menu, scrolling with a thick finger through endless weapon schematics. "Hmm... ah! Here we go!"
He tapped a selection, and a 3D render of the cannon spun mid-air.
[Cyndraconis – Epic Hand-Held Cannon]
A stone dragon's open maw served as the chassis, carved from dark granite and molten obsidian, with a black-scaled barrel protruding from its gaping jaws. The detail was immaculate—even the etched runes along the dragon's teeth flared with simulated heat.
"A stone dragon flamethrower, this one's called Cyndraconis. Great fer takin' down frostbitten hordes. Real nice heat dispersion, and sprays flame arcs like a breathin' wyrm."
Hoshigari's eyes gleamed. "What are the materials? And the price?"
Ultyr stroked his beard, then listed off:
"To craft this stony fiery baby right 'ere, I need 5 Crimson Energy Cells, 10 Black Steel, 30 Refined Stone, 15 Ember Stone, and 1 Overheated Golem Core. And the cost of forgin' it would be... 8,500 Creds."
Hoshigari raised an eyebrow. "Ember Stones? Overheated Golem Core?"
Ultyr gave a sharp nod. "Them Ember Stones can be mined from the Glint Hollow Mines. Rare little devils, but they glow a nice sunset-orange, ya can't miss 'em. As fer the Core... you'll have to hunt down a Steamrock Golem that roams the mines. Big lumberin' thing, vents steam from its back. Melt its engine core, and you'll get what you need."
Hoshigari hummed. "The mines, huh? I'd need a strong pickaxe..."
He paused, as a sudden memory surged back—his last Super Boss victory. A devious grin spread across his face.
"Or maybe... a drill."
With a confident flourish, Hoshigari placed his newly obtained Hand-Held Cannon—Stingvoker—onto the workbench, followed by a gleaming, spiraled material: the Drill Stinger, won from the Rudra-King Bee Super Boss.
Ultyr's eyes widened. "Well I'll be... this is rare primo-grade loot!"
He pulled up another schematic, merging components.
"We can fusion-upgrade your Stingvoker right now. All I need is 10 Mechanical Scraps, 20 Refined Steel, 10 Energy Cells, and 10 Refined Iron. And the cost? Just 1,500 Creds. The result? Dreadadrill. A rare-grade Hand-Held Cannon that acts like a power drill, complete with a select-fire system. You can spin it for tunneling—or shoot the whole drill head like a projectile. It's brutal. Excellent for rock and ice-type monsters."
Hoshigari slammed both palms on the counter, eyes brimming with resolve. "I've got all the materials and creds. Let's go!"
"Then let's get to work, partner!" Ultyr barked with a hearty laugh.
He clapped his hands, and arcane mechanisms sparked to life. The Stingvoker floated above the table, suspended by a blue anti-gravity ring. The required materials levitated around it in a tight orbit. As the glow intensified, Ultyr spun his massive blacksmith hammer, kissed it for luck, and flung it high into the air.
CLANG!
The hammer came down like thunder, striking the center of the fusion in a pillar of blinding blue light.
Particles swirled. The cannon's shape warped, its barrel elongating and spiraling, layered with plating, vents, and kinetic modulators. Heat pressure seals folded inward with hydraulic hisses.
The light died.
Hovering before them was the [Dreadadrill (Rare)].
Its frame gleamed obsidian and tungsten, with a brutal spiraled drillhead tip and secondary flame vents lining its side. The grip had reinforced recoil stabilizers, and its back featured a mounted canister housing compressed energy for projectile deployment.
Hoshigari stared in awe, then grinned wide as he reached out and clasped the grip.
As Hoshigari paid the full amount of Creds for it.
[Credits: 1,998,611,790]
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Hoshigari stared in awe, then grinned wide as he reached out and clasped the grip and he then examined his newly obtained weapon
[Dreadadrill]
[A brutal fusion-upgraded creature evolved from the Stingvoker. Dreadadrill replaces its stinger with a high-torque Drill Stinger capable of devastating close-range crushing, smashing impalement or long-range projectile assaults. It utilizes crushing damage in both melee and ranged forms, making it a nightmare to armored targets.]
Rarity: Rare
Damage Type: Crushing (Blunt & Impact + also powerful against rock & ice related enemies)
Melee Mode (Drill Stinger - Spin Pierce):
Body Damage: 35-45 hitpoint damage (50+ critical if hitting from behind or staggered target)
Effect: Stuns unshielded enemies on full torque spin
Ranged Mode (Drill Burst - Fragmented Launch):
Body Damage: 30 hitpoint damage per drill projectile (AOE impact adds stagger + knockback)
Ammo Type: Internal Arcane Drills (recharges over time)
Firing Type: Select-Fire (Switch between Melee Drill Mode & Ranged Drill Burst Mode)
Ammo Capacity (Ranged Mode): 3 drill shot (Cooldown: 10 seconds per shot to reload)
Effective Range (Ranged Mode): Close-Medium
Bullet Drop: Low-Medium (due to drill weight and spin trajectory)
Recoil: Medium (short stagger animation between drill launches)
Special Trait:When grappling onto large enemies, the Drill Stinger deals increased damage over time if fully charged.
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"Thanks, Ultyr. This is gonna be perfect for what's coming. With this, Ember Stones and the Overheated Golem Core'll be much easier."
Ultyr tipped his hammer forward like a cowboy hat. "Just make sure ya bring that beaut back for maintenance. She's a feisty one."
Across the lobby, Sylva offered him a kind smile as she polished a crystalline blue potion. "May your path be warm and your steps light, Hoshigari," she said softly.
He nodded in return as he started walking towards Elodie,
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Elodie leaned with casual confidence beside the giant red Torii Gate, hands on her hips, a single gum bubble slowly inflating.
"Where are we heading off to?" she asked, eyeing his gear.
"Mining," Hoshigari replied flatly. "A lot."
"Alright then. I'll help you out. I've got nothing better to do right now anyway." Pop. She pressed a hand on the Torii Gate.
With a resonant hum, the gate spiraled open, energy threads stretching like spider silk.
Hoshigari equipped his Fox Holo-Mask.
[Face Equipment (Swapped) - Fox Holo-Mask of Unrecognition]
[+5 Bonus SP Added to Defense]
[+10 Bonus SP Added to Arcana]
[Bonus SP Added, Distributed & Changed!]
Perception: 135 (+5 {-20})
Defense: 50 (+24)
Arcana: 33 (+25)
He also donned his Concealing Trinket Cloak of Concealing and raised the hood.
"Heh," Elodie snickered, pulling up her own hood. "Feel annoyed you've gotta wear that disguise every time we jump back into Exo-Arcana?"
Hoshigari rubbed his temples with a groan. "Yes. Let's just go already."
(At this moment, Noctatsu was curled up and sleeping, regenerating inside Hoshigari's inventory.)
Together, the two stepped through the gate.
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-[Gloamhaven's Twilight Tradepost]-
Once again, the pair emerged from the shadowed alleyways of Gloamhaven's bustling Twilight Tradepost. The sky shimmered in a dusky haze above as the scent of incense and metal mingled in the air. Hoshigari walked briskly, thumbing open his Digi-Map and scanning the location markers.
"Damn, it's a tad bit farther away from here," he muttered, tracing the route with his finger. "Let's head to the path leading to it, then we'll take my Nebula Stride all the way there."
Elodie nodded, stretching her arms with a light pop. "Understood!"
They weaved through the remaining crowds, leaving the twilight tradepost behind. At the base of the rocky trail, Hoshigari snapped his fingers.
[Mount Summoned: Nebula Stride Ichiban Grav-Motorcycle]
The Grav-Bike materialized in a gleaming pulse of hexagonal particles. Its slick frame shimmered with shifting neon hues as it hovered inches above the ground.
"Hop on," Hoshigari said.
Elodie slid onto the back, resting her chin briefly on his shoulder as she held on. "Let's ride."
With a thunderous hum, the Grav-Bike roared to life and they sped down the winding forest path. Leaves blurred into streaks of green, mist trailing behind them like smoke.
Eventually, the terrain shifted—stone replaced soil, and ancient mine rail tracks emerged from under the overgrowth. They slowed, maneuvering through a patch of trees, until finally reaching the yawning entrance of the Glint Hollow Mines.
Other players bustled in and out, some carrying pickaxes, others dragging defeated mob loot or mining carts full of glowing ores.
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-[Glint Hollow Mines]-
The interior loomed like a massive throat of darkness. Flickering torchlight barely lit the jagged walls. The air smelled of dust and minerals.
Hoshigari reached into his inventory, unequipping his twin MAC-11s and pulling out his newest toy:
[Left Handed Weapon (Unequipped) - Empty]
[Right Handed Weapon (Swapped) - Dreadadrill Hand-Held Cannon]
The weapon let out a low mechanical growl as it initialized, its drill bit slowly rotating.
"Dang... it's kinda dark inside. Barely lit torches on the cavern walls, yeesh," he muttered, then perked up. "Oh right, this'll do!"
He activated a Fixer Chip Skill.
[Skill Activated: Digi-Lantern]
A floating digital lantern burst to life beside him, casting a warm, flickerless glow.
"Hah! I knew this thing would come in handy!"
"I agree with that as well!" Elodie chimed in from behind, now comically outfitted in a miner's helmet and wielding a pickaxe resting on her shoulder.
Hoshigari blinked. "Wait, where the heck did you get those?!"
"Eh? They were actually lying on the ground near the entrance. You didn't see?~"
"Uhh... I guess not. Anyways, I'll break down the rocks—you take out the ores."
"Understood!" she said with a grin, popping another gum candy into her mouth.
They ventured deeper into the mines, digital lantern illuminating mineral-rich walls as the sound of distant mining echoed around them. Along the way, they encountered groups of Arocknids—six-legged arachnid-rock hybrids—and crystalline Golems that tried to block their path.
The battles were swift and explosive—Hoshigari's Dreadadrill shot explosive drill torpedoes, ripping through mineral armor, while Elodie cleaved and smashed using heavy falling momentum. Their coordination was seamless.
[Credits: 1,998,612,350]
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In between combat, they mined with rhythm and efficiency, their inventories filling rapidly with glinting treasure.
[Inventory Menu (!)]
[67 Copper (New)]
[41 Raw Bronze (New)]
[34 Raw Iron (New)]
[26 Raw Gold (New)]
[17 Raw Platinum (New)]
[10 Raw Diamond (New)]
[8 Sapphire (New)]
[15 Ruby (New)]
[5 Emerald (New)]
[34 Arcanum Stone (New)]
[14 Ember Stone (New)]
[7 Aqua Stone (New)]
[21 Gale Stone (New)]
[5 Shock Stone (New)]
[10 Glacial Stone (New)]
[5 Umbra Stone (New)]
[5 Lumina Stone (New)]
[8 Healing Stone (New)]
[16 Mythril (New)]
[12 Adamantite (New)]
[10 Orichalcum (New)]
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After nearly two hours of combing through the mines' many tunnels, they paused to take stock.
"Alright, got so much ores!" Hoshigari grinned, thumbing through his inventory menu.
"We're also lucky to find rare ores like Mythril, Adamantite, and Orichalcum!" Elodie said as she examined an adamantite ore before chucking it back to her inventory
"Yeah, real lucky. But… still missing one Ember Stone. And where is that damn Steamrock Golem?"
He turned a corner and found a new opening leading into a luminous, wide cavern.
"Let's see what's up there..." Hoshigari suggested
They entered the massive chamber. The walls shimmered with embedded crystals. Above, the ceiling sparkled with clusters of different-sized rainbow-hued gems, sunlight from natural vents refracting through them and bathing the entire space in radiant glow.
Hoshigari spotted it.
"Bingo! Final Ember Stone needed!"
He jogged forward, zeroing in on the Ember Stone jutting out of a wall.
But Elodie's voice pierced the tranquility.
"HOSHIGARI! MOVE OUT THE WAY!!"
He instantly stopped in his tracks, snapping his head upward—something enormous was falling.
Reacting with swift instinct, he kicked backwards into a skid, just as a massive form crashed into the ground where he stood, a shockwave of dust and rock bursting outward.
As the haze cleared, its form was revealed—massive, steaming, armored in grey rocks and glowing rivets of molten energy.
Hoshigari's eyes gleamed as he leveled his Dreadadrill.
He smirked.
"So you finally showed up, huh?"
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-[You Have Encountered the Rare Encounter Monster - Steamrock Golem]-
Steam hissed from the fissures of the massive stone beast as it rose, its colossal frame made of jagged, cracked gray rock. Heat shimmered visibly from the core embedded deep within its chest—glowing red with overheated pressure—while its arms pulsed violently, steam bursting from the seams like the release valves of a war machine.
With a thunderous roar, it declared its readiness for battle.
"Alright," Hoshigari muttered, cracking his neck. "No time to dilly-dally. Let's skip straight to the part where we tear that core outta your chest!"
He spun his Zeus Revolver with flair, unleashing a flurry of five quick shots, each bullet slamming into the Golem's armored shell. Sparks flew.
BOOM!
Elodie was already charging. Her oni eyes gleamed with fury. With a burst of acceleration, she delivered a rising slash, the momentum launching her blade upward and into the Golem's abdomen. She followed instantly with a heavy downward cleave, slamming the giant backward.
The Golem grunted, stumbling a few steps before retaliating with savage, gorilla-like swings. Its fists pummeled the ground with shockwaves, massive arms crashing down with primal fury.
Elodie danced between its blows. She dodged, pivoted, and blocked with the flat edge of her greatsword, sparks flying with each impact. The clashing rhythm of steel and stone echoed through the ruins.
Above them, Hoshigari sprinted up the rusted scaffoldings nearby, taking to the high ground. He ran along the platform and leapt off with perfect timing.
THUD!
He landed atop the Golem with a skidding stop. He pulled out his Dreadadrill, revved the drill-bit head with a shrieking metallic whirl, and slammed it down into the Golem's back.
SKRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!
Chunks of rock splintered off as the drill carved deep, dealing heavy piercing and crushing damage.
Then, Hoshigari raised his Zeus Revolver to the sky.
BANG!
A thunderous crack echoed through the clouds. "Zeus Skill: Thunderstorm's Decree!"
Dark, brooding clouds churned above, lightning surging within.
The Golem growled and, in fury, reached up, grabbing Hoshigari and chucking him like a ragdoll into the nearby wall.
CRASH!
[Health: 120/150]
"HOSHIGARI?!" Elodie shouted.
"Oww! I'm okay!" he groaned, peeling himself from the crater in the wall. With a grin, he activated Fixer Skill: Quick Patch, a warm green glow stitching his wounds back together.
[Health: 150/150]
"Now... HAVE A GOOD TASTE OF SHOCK THERAPY!"
From above, the storm unleashed its fury.
CRACK-BOOM!
Bolts of white-hot lightning rained down across the battlefield. The Steamrock Golem convulsed from the strikes—but so did Elodie.
"ELODIE, YOU SHOULD PROBABLY—"
"I AM OK, HOSHIGARI!" she shouted back mid-combat. "LIGHTNING AND FIRE DOESN'T AFFECT US YOMOTSUHANA ONI!"
With that, she skidded back and activated her Exo Ability.
Exo Ability: Digi-Mask of Everflames.
A dark digital mask resembling a skull manifested over her face, glowing with spectral blue fire. Her fists ignited after.
Then—
Myth Spirit: Tarasque.
A colossal, spectral beast surged behind her. A monstrous lion head snarled, six legs stomped, its shell bristled like a mountain, and its serpent tail lashed.
The Tarasque roared, flames spewing from its mouth to enshroud her greatsword in fire.
Seeing her power rising, the Steamrock Golem attempted to intervene, stomping forward through the lightning bolts. But Hoshigari, now reloaded and back on the scaffolding, let out a cocky smirk.
"Nuh uh! You're not reachin' her!"
He fired triple burst drill shots from the Dreadadrill—
THUMP! THUMP! THUMP!
The Golem staggered as the explosive projectiles slammed into its core and limbs.
Elodie exhaled.
Greatsword Warrior Skill: Great Dash!
She vanished, becoming a blur of blue flame.
CLANG! She reappeared point-blank, driving her blade straight into the glowing core.
Myth Spirit: Tarasque Skill – Deep Sink Driver!
The core exploded in gouts of white-hot flames, the ground trembling beneath their feet.
With a sharp pull, she wrenched her sword out and vaulted upward.
"ENDING STRIKE!"
Her blade, now entirely wreathed in blue fire, came crashing down in an overhead arc.
KA-CHOOOOOOM!
The shockwave thundered through the battlefield. The ground split with spiderweb cracks beneath the impact. In perfect synchrony, Hoshigari—perched high on the scaffolding—aimed upward and pulled the trigger on his hand-cannon.
BLAM! BLAM! BLAM!
Three explosive drill burst shots tore through the air like meteors, targeting the massive clusters of crystal and gem formations anchored to the ceiling above. Each shot detonated with surgical precision, sending shimmering boulders crashing down.
With a deafening CRACK, the glistening mass of crystals and gemstones rained down upon the Steamrock Golem like a meteor shower. The monster let out a final, choking roar—half gurgle, half mechanical screech—as the rubble buried it under tons of debris.
Steam hissed violently from the fractures of its crumbling body. Sparks flickered out from exposed joints. With one last echoing creak of its frame, the once-mighty construct collapsed, motionless and entombed in huge chunks of shattered crystals and gems.
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-[You Have Defeated the Rare Encounter Monster - Steamrock Golem]-
[Gained - +500 XP]
[Level 42 >>> Level 43 (LEVEL UP!)]
[Gained - 500 Creds]
[Credits: 1,998,612,850]
[Gained - +20 SP]
[Gained - 10 Steaming Rock Fragments {Boss Materials}]
[Gained - Overheated Golem Core {Boss Materials}]
[Gained - Steambounder (Rare)]
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"That's a definite check on the Overheated Golem Core. Now let's get that last damn Ember Stone," Hoshigari said as he dropped down from the scaffolding with a light thud, brushing the dust from his cloak.
"Indeed. Let's get it and get out of these mines," Elodie replied with a resolute nod. She sheathed her glowing greatsword and donned her Cloak of Concealing once more, the tattered fabric shimmering faintly before blending with the darkened cavern air. She retrieved her pickaxe and swung it one last time.
The final Ember Stone cracked free from the rocky wall with a resonant chime, glimmering deep orange with volatile heat sealed within.
"Got it," Elodie confirmed, tossing her pickaxe aside with finality.
She turned to Hoshigari and placed her hand against his back.
"Let's go home."
The moment he activated the Clan Building Key, a vortex of amethyst light burst beneath them, spiraling upward into a sphere of radiant, shimmering energy.
-[Hidden Oni Kingdom of Yomotsuhana – Starlight Recoil Clan Building]-
The ornate teleportation pad glowed with runic brilliance as a surge of violet energy coalesced in the center. With a shimmering flash, Hoshigari and Elodie rematerialized, their silhouettes solidifying amidst a static crackle of aether.
Elodie removed her cloak with a flourish and returned to her spot on the stone bench, brushing her white hair behind her horns with a quiet sigh. Hoshigari unequipped his Cloak of Concealing and Fox Holo-Mask of Unrecognition, his real identity now visible. With a swipe, he re-equipped his signature Spotter Goggles.
[Face Equipment (Swapped) - Spotter Goggles]
[+20 Bonus SP Added to Perception]
[Bonus SP Added, Distributed & Changed!]
Perception: 135 (+25)
Defense: 50 (+19 {-5})
Arcana: 33 (+15 {-10})
"Time to get this baby forged," Hoshigari said with a grin, striding toward Ultyr's Forgery Station.
Inside the chamber, glowing with furnace heat and the sound of hammering steel, Ultyr—an eccentric blacksmith NPC with bronze goggles and ember-tinted hair—looked up.
"Yo, Ultyr! I got the materials needed to forge the Cyndraconis!"
Ultyr's eyes gleamed. "Ah yes! Great job, my friend! Just place the materials on the counter and I'll do my magic~"
Hoshigari unloaded the Ember Stone, the Overheated Golem Core, and other required materials onto the granite slab. Ultyr carefully scooped them into a floating forge-cradle of molten fire and rotating glyphs.
"Alrighty! It'll take a couple of minutes—weapon forging takes longer than your fusion upgrades and the like. Feel free to stretch your legs."
With a nod, Hoshigari stepped back and rubbed his hands together.
"Alright... hmm... oh right! I still got 135 remaining Stat Points!~"
He cracked his fingers and brought up his stat menu.
[Remaining SP: 135]
[+50 SP Added to Luck]
[+50 SP Added to Perception]
[+10 SP Added to Agility]
[+10 SP Added to Stamina]
[+10 SP Added to Dexterity]
[+5 SP Added to Vitality]
[SP Distributed]
-[Status Attributes (Updated)]-
Vitality: 55 (+15)
Defense: 50 (+19)
Strength: 70 (+5)
Arcana: 33 (+15)
Perception: 185 (+25)
Dexterity: 55 (+5)
Agility: 85 (+15)
Stamina: 80 (+15)
Luck: 185 (+5)
The Status Attribute Menu dissolved in a swirl of pixelated shimmer. He exhaled through his nose and set a hand to his chest, voice playfully teasing as he admired his new stat allocation.
"Yup! Still sticking with the Perception and Luck build... perfection!~"
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His fingers moved with reflexive grace, sliding open his Inventory Menu. A glint caught his eye.
"Huh...? Upgrade Orbs?"
Curious, he tapped one.
[Upgrade Orb {Item}]
(Effect: Instantly upgrades an equipment by one level, rather than usually spending Credits to upgrade equipments. Basically a free equipment upgrade.)
His eyes widened with giddy disbelief.
"WOAH! And I got 9 more of these things?! Dang! Alright then, guess it's free upgrade time!~ Heheheheh!"
He rubbed his hands together like a scheming villain about to execute a flawless plan. Then, one by one, he began tapping through his gear:
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[Used Upgrade Orb on Red Scarf]
[Red Scarf Lvl1 >>> Red Scarf Lvl2 (+4 Defense Bonus)]
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[Used Upgrade Orb on White 0G5 Logo T-Shirt]
[White 0G5 Logo T-Shirt Lvl1 >>> White 0G5 Logo T-Shirt Lvl2 (+10 Defense Bonus)]
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[Used Upgrade Orb on Dark Brown Belt]
[Dark Brown Belt Lvl1 >>> Dark Brown Belt Lvl2 (+4 Defense Bonus)]
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[Used Upgrade Orb on Black Baggy Cargo Pants]
[Black Baggy Cargo Pants Lvl1 >>> Black Baggy Cargo Pants Lvl2 (+10 Defense Bonus)]
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[Used Upgrade Orb on Spotter Goggles]
[Spotter Goggles Lvl1 >>> Spotter Goggles Lvl2 (+25 Perception Bonus)]
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[Used Upgrade Orb on Black Crimson-Lined All-Work Gloves]
[Black Crimson-Lined All-Work Gloves Lvl1 >>> Black Crimson-Lined All-Work Gloves Lvl2 (+10 Bonus SP added to all status attributes)]
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[Used Upgrade Orb on Hermes Boots]
[Hermes Boots Lvl1 >>> Hermes Boots Lvl2 (+15 Agility Bonus, +15 Stamina Bonus, Triple Jump)]
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[Used Upgrade Orb on Ebonflame]
[Ebonflame Lvl1 >>> Ebonflame Lvl2 (Upgraded Body Damage to 55-65 hitpoint damage (85 critical hitpoint damage))+(Upgraded Headshot Damage to 105 hitpoint damage (205 critical hitpoint damage))]
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[Used Upgrade Orb on Zeus]
[Zeus Lvl1 >>> Zeus Lvl2 (Upgraded Body Damage to 45-65 hitpoint damage (85 critical hitpoint damage))+(Upgrade Headshot Damage to 95 hitpoint damage (185 critical hitpoint damage))]
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[Used Upgrade Orb on Solstice & Equinox]
[Solstice & Equinox Lvl1 >>> Solstice & Equinox Lvl2 (Upgraded Body Damage to 10-20 hitpoint damage (25 critical hitpoint damage))+(Upgrade Headshot Damage to 35-45 hitpoint damage (50 critical hitpoint damage))]
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[Bonus SP Added & Distributed]
-[Status Attributes (Updated)]-
Vitality: 55 (+20)
Defense: 50 (+38)
Strength: 70 (+20)
Arcana: 33 (+20)
Perception: 185 (+35)
Dexterity: 55 (+10)
Agility: 85 (+20)
Stamina: 80 (+20)
Luck: 185 (+10)
"Haha! Now this is free power! Yahaha!" Hoshigari bellowed triumphantly, hands on hips like your typical victorious anime protagonist.
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Just then, a familiar voice echoed from across the room.
"Mr. Hoshigari! Your weapon is ready!"
It was Ultyr, his white beard swaying slightly as he waved from his station. Wisps of steam and smelt danced around him.
Hoshigari jogged over, grinning from ear to ear.
"Nice, let's see it!"
He slid the required credits with a quick flick of the wrist.
[Credits: 1,998,604,350]
Ultyr carefully handed over the newly forged weapon as Hoshigari retrieved his Cyndraconis (Epic) Hand-Held Cannon
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[Cyndraconis]
"From the dragon's breath, a blaze of fury—let the flames consume all who dare stand in the way."
[This hand-held flamethrower cannon unleashes a continuous stream of fire through a grey-scaled dragon-shaped barrel. It deals steady fire damage and inflicts burn status for 5–10 seconds. Emits a low dragon-like roar when firing.]
Rarity: Epic
Base Rounds: Flame Spitter Breath Rounds – Continuous stream of concentrated flame energy
Body Damage: 20-25 damage per second (Burn: +5-10 damage over 5–10 sec)
Head Shot Damage: 35-40 damage per second (Burn: +10-15 damage over 5–10 sec)
Firing Type: Continuous Stream (Hold-trigger fire)
Ammo Capacity: 100
Effective Range: Short & Medium
Bullet Drop: None
Recoil: Minimal (slight aim pushback while firing)
With a satisfied grin, Hoshigari checked his newly acquired Cyndraconis in his hands once before letting it dematerialize into flickering polygons and vanish into his Inventory with a soft pulse of light.
"With this, that icy blizzard mountain will be way easier to trek through!" he said with a self-assured nod.
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He pulled open his menu, eyes narrowing as he scanned a checklist. "Fire arcana weaponry... check! Cold resistant clothing... not yet."
With a swipe of his hand, he brought up his Digi-Map interface, neon lines connecting with real-time geo-coordinates around Yomotsuhana. He muttered while cycling through shops:
"Clothing store, clothing store, clothing—ah! Magithread Atelier, there you are. Let's get those cold-resistant threads!"
Pumping a fist, Hoshigari dashed out of the Yomotsuhana clan hall, snapping his fingers with a confident flair. A luminous glyph appeared on the ground before mechanical pulses erupted skyward.
[Mount Summoned: Nebula Stride Ichiban Grav-Motorcycle]
With a roaring VROOOM, the gravity-defying motorcycle ignited into existence. Hoshigari swung over it with practiced motion, revved, and sped through the cobblestone streets of Yomotsuhana.
He weaved between traffic, followed the blue line path traced by his Digi-Map, and within minutes, skidded to a graceful halt outside a futuristic, glass-domed boutique storefront: Magithread Atelier.
A snap of his fingers.
[Mount Recalled: Nebula Stride Ichiban Grav-Motorcycle]
The vehicle shimmered away into data light.
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-[Magithread Atelier]-
Hoshigari stepped through the boutique's enchanted doors, greeted by a chime and an elderly Oni tailor with silver-threaded horns and round spectacles.
"Welcome, traveler. In need of some protection from the elements?"
"You got that right," Hoshigari replied, already scanning racks of coats. "Fire resistance... lightning... water... Ah! Cold Resistance, gotcha."
[Purchased Cold Resistance Coat (Rare) - 550 Creds]
He grabbed the rugged white and grey fur-lined coat with confidence, then moved on. "Just need the Thermal Heating Scarf and Windproof Goggles..."
His eyes caught the shining accessories laid out on velvet shelves.
[Purchased Thermal Heating Scarf (Rare) - 450 Creds]
[Purchased Windproof Goggles (Rare) - 400 Creds]
[Credits: 1,998,602,950]
"Perfect. Now we're talkin' full frost-proof mode."
Just as he was about to leave, something tugged at his peripheral vision—a softly glowing alcove labeled:
[Nano-Suit Trinkets]
Curiosity hijacked his stride. Rows of floating cybernetic spheres hovered in stasis fields, each humming with latent potential.
"These are hella expensive," Hoshigari whispered, leaning in. "They better be hella useful. Fenrir Suit, Minotaur, Manticore... oh? Pegasus Suit, eh?"
He tapped the white-glowing orb. A new holo-display flared up.
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[Pegasus Nano-Suit]
"Ascend the skies with the grace of the divine steed of greek mythology."
Rarity: Epic
Effect:A temporarily worn white nano-suit featuring sleek armor plating and radiant wing engravings across the limbs. The soles of the boots bear glowing horse-shoe patterns, while a high-tech visor grants HUD enhancements. Floating just behind the wearer's back are a pair of luminous, mechanical hover wings with built-in rocket boosters. These enable full aerial mobility.
Abilities Granted:
Hover – Maintain your altitude indefinitely while suit is active.
Hoof-Powered Kicks – While the suit is active, kicks deal greater damage.
Air Dash / Air Jump / Mid-Air Launch – Chain aerial movements to reposition mid-combat or reach difficult terrain.
Utter Aerial Dominance – While in mid-air, movement speed increases by 25% and fall damage is nullified.
Duration: 5 minutes
Cooldown: 3 minutes
Price: 1,500,000 Creds
"This nano-suit is hella useful. Definitely worth the creds!" Hoshigari's eyes practically popped as he slapped the purchase panel.
[Credits: 1,997,102,950]
He watched as the white orb compacted into a trinket form and materialized into his hand. With a smooth motion, he slotted it into one of his open trinket slots.
[Pegasus Nano-Suit {Trinket} (Epic) Added to Trinket Slot 6]
A new UI node appeared embedded into his right wrist interface—a white round button etched with wing-like glyphs.
"Slick," he murmured.
He gave a courteous nod to the old Oni tailor and exited the boutique with his new gear secured, staring off confidently into the glowing dusk light of Yomotsuhana...
...
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-[Starlight Recoil Clan Building (Dorm Room - Hoshigari)]-
It was the next day, and Hoshigari had already logged back into Exo-Arcana Online.
Sunlight shimmered in through the windows of the Yomotsuhana clan building, refracted into digital rainbows by crystalline ornaments. Inside his Dorm Room, Hoshigari was adjusting his cold-resistant outfit in front of the mirror—a sleek, weather-warded jacket, thermal scarf snugly tucked around his neck, and windproof goggles perched on his forehead.
"Well, cold-resistant clothes—check. And with Cyndraconis... definite check against those ice-related monsters we'll face! Haha!" he said, flexing confidently before storing the gear into his inventory with a gleam of digitized particles.
He stepped out into the hallway, stretching his arms high overhead, a slight yawn escaping. "I honestly kinda miss using a melee weapon. Been far too long since I've held one..."
He flicked open his friend list. Only one online for now.
[Sushi Slice: Online]
As he made his way through the quiet halls, he reached the open lounge-living room where Sushi Slice sat, elegant as always. She was at the dining table, absorbed in blueprints, a pencil twirling effortlessly between her fingers.
"Heya Sushi, what'cha doin'?" Hoshigari greeted with a casual grin.
"Ah, hi Hoshi-san," she replied, "I'm working on creating a custom weapon."
"Huh? Custom weapon?" he tilted his head, intrigued.
"Yes. These blueprints," she gestured at the parchment-like hologram. "You can design your own upgradable weapon suited to your class or sub-class. I'm designing a custom Odachi. I've named it Yanagiba."
She tilted the blueprint toward him. The design was graceful.
"Really now? Where do you think I could get a blueprint like this?" Hoshigari asked, leaning in.
"Ah, here! I have spares." She checked her inventory menu, pulled out a glowing scroll, and handed it over. "Take one."
[Fateforger Sushi Slice handed over Empty Blueprint]
"Thanks a bunch, Sushi. So that Odachi of yours—do you have the materials yet?" he asked while sliding the blueprint into his inventory.
"I have most of it, but I'm still missing three key components. Five Refined Steel, ten Refined Iron, and ten Refined Platinum," she sighed.
Hoshigari grinned warmly. "You want them? I actually have those exact materials in stock."
"WHAT?! Is it really okay? Do I need to repay you?" she blinked in surprise.
"Yeah, no, take it as a gift. You've taken on a lot being our clan leader—it's just a lil present, yo!" he chuckled, tapping her shoulder.
[You handed over 5 Refined Steel to Fateforger Sushi Slice]
[You handed over 10 Refined Iron to Fateforger Sushi Slice]
[You handed over 10 Refined Platinum to Fateforger Sushi Slice]
"Thank you so much, Hoshi-san! I'll get started right away!" she bowed deeply, rolling up her blueprint with a big smile before rushing off to the elevator.
Left alone, Hoshigari pulled out his empty blueprint and laid it flat on the table. He grabbed Sushi's pencil and twirled it in his fingers before lowering it thoughtfully to the parchment.
"Custom weapon, eh? Yeah... I kinda miss the thrill of close-range melee clashes. Let's see... something with impact. Something versatile..."
For the next few hours, the only sounds were the faint hum of cybernetics in the walls and the scratch of graphite on arcane paper. Slowly, line by line, the weapon took form—an amalgamation of brute force and sleek design, suitable for his Ranger Class.
"Just gotta do this... aaaaand... done! Haha!" Hoshigari exclaimed as he lifted the finished blueprint triumphantly.
He carefully rolled it up and made his way down to the lobby towards Ultyr's forging station.
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-[Starlight Recoil Clan Building Lobby]-
"Ultyr! Take a look at this! Think you can forge this bad boy?" Hoshigari called out, unfolding the blueprint and laying it flat on the counter, alongside a big pouch of materials.
The forge's orange glow reflected in Ultyr's crimson eyes as he leaned over the parchment. He scratched his chin thoughtfully.
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Final Draw – Weapon Appearance Description:
Realistic dark matte-black metal scythe weapon, with sleek silver linings and glowing neon circuitry (that changed colors from blue, green, orange, and red) engraved across its curved frame. The scythe has a full-body frame, with the primary long grip along the back, and a secondary side-handle positioned like a gun trigger, giving it a railgun-like grip system.
The lazer scythe blade is wide and crescent-shaped, forged from blackened steel, edged with pulsing blue energy veins, and mounted asymmetrically on the top-front. Along the spine of the scythe lies a high-tech magnetic rail channel, where energy projectiles are charged and launched—functioning as a railgun cannon hidden within the scythe's shaft.
Each card suit (Spade, Heart, Club, Diamond) is represented by a glowing symbol on different segments of the scythe:– Spade: etched on the cannon's barrel– Heart: faintly glowing on both of the handholds– Club: embedded into the energy-parry generator near the trigger handle– Diamond: engraved on the blade base, glowing faint blue when its slash skill is active
A digital scope with a holographic projection aligns over the scythe's shaft when aiming down sights. The weapon features energy vents along the side that release pressure steam and sparks after each shot.
The overall aesthetic is a blend of futuristic military railgun with a mythic, reaper-inspired elegance, making it look like a weapon forged for a high-tech executioner of fate. It's massive, but balanced for two-handed wielding—like a great weapon that must be aimed, charged, and unleashed with intention.
Materials needed for forging the Final Draw:
30 Refined Steel
10 Black Steel
10 White Steel
10 Crimson Energy Cells
25 Energy Cells
8 Arcanum Stone
2 Umbra Stone
2 Lumina Stone
3 Refined Diamond
3 Adamantite
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Ultyr leaned back with a sharp exhale, eyes practically sparkling, "What... a... beauty!" he marveled, his voice almost reverent. "I am impressed... and would be real honored to forge this beauty of a weapon for you, Mr. Hoshigari. A custom creation of this masterpiece would cost you quite a pretty big penny though. Specifically—2.5 million Creds. Could you possibly afford it?"
Hoshigari offered an easy smile and a confident thumbs-up. "Yup! I can sure afford it. Ultyr, please do your magic!"
"Aye aye, boss~!" Ultyr said with a dramatic salute. With a practiced hand, he scooped up the blueprint and materials, then turned sharply toward the blazing heart of his forge. The sounds of clanking metal and humming arcana-forges filled the air.
Meanwhile, Hoshigari settled onto one of the benches in the lobby just outside the forge. The radiant flickers of heat made the air shimmer faintly. As he rested, a swirl of shadowy mist emerged from his shoulder.
With a blink and a croak, Noctatsu rematerialized.
"Took long enough to let me out again," the ninja frog grumbled a bit lazily.
"Haha, sorry, buddy. You were sleeping like a log," Hoshigari teased, giving his familiar a little flick.
"Mmmh... what's that smell? Is someone forging something?"
Just then, the elevator chimed. The doors slid open—and in walked Sushi Slice, radiating quiet pride. She waved with one hand, her other gently resting on a fresh scabbard tied to her hip.
"Oh hey, Hoshi-san! Noct-kun!" she greeted warmly.
"Hey again, Sushi! Is that... your new Odachi?" Hoshigari leaned forward, eyes widening.
"Why yes—" Sushi Slice responded, her fingers sliding over the hilt. She unsheathed the blade with a practiced flourish. "—The Yanagiba Odachi!"
The weapon gleamed under the ambient light: a long, elegant odachi with a glowing orange edge along its pristine steel blade. Its hilt was wrapped in a black-and-red weave, the guard toned in gold with delicate flair. The matching scabbard bore red accents and subtle kanji engravings, whispering both refinement and deadly grace.
"Whoa... That looks seriously clean," Hoshigari commented with genuine admiration.
Noctatsu let out a soft whistle. "Looks like it could probably slice an airship in two."
"So what're you doing here, Hoshi-san?" Sushi Slice asked as she slid Yanagiba back into its sheath with a crisp click.
"Just waiting for my new custom weapon to finish up," Hoshigari said, motioning his thumb toward Ultyr's station.
Her eyes lit up with curiosity. "Ah, I'm kind of excited to see what you've created. But—I'll be testing out Yanagiba's skills back in Exo-Arcana. See you soon!"
"See ya!" Hoshigari waved her off as she turned toward the Torii Gate.
Elodie, standing nearby, activated the Torii Gate with a flourish of her hand. The mystical shimmer of the gate enveloped Sushi Slice as she passed through.
"Good luck, Sushi," Hoshigari muttered, smiling.
Then, from the forge: "Mr. Hoshigari! Your new custom weapon—Final Draw—is ready!"
Ultyr's voice boomed with excitement, and he waved him over. Hoshigari shot up like a rocket and dashed to the counter. Ultyr, with theatrical flair, set the weapon gently atop the counter.
"Payment, please, sir!" Ultyr snapped his fingers, flipping his smithing hammer once before catching it.
Hoshigari nodded, confirming the transaction with a blink.
[Credits: 1,994,602,950]
With his account automatically deducting the 2.5 million, Hoshigari reached forward, hands tingling with anticipation.
He grasped his newly forged custom weapon—Final Draw—and slowly lifted it, examining every glinting inch of its glory...
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[Final Draw]
"When the cards are dealt, the final draw is always a game of fate—only those brave enough to face the odds live to see the outcome."
[This is a custom-rarity scythe-framed hand-held cannon railgun hybrid that fires explosive energy rounds. Forged in the theme of fate and card suits, it combines long-range artillery with elegant scythe combat.]
Rarity: Custom
Weapon Type: Scythe-Cannon Railgun Hybrid
Base Rounds: Spades Rounds – Pure orange energy rounds that explode on impact. High damage, very slow fire rate and reload time. Best suited for long-range precision shots.
Body Damage: 90–110 hitpoint damage (140–160 on critical hitpoints)
Head Shot Damage: 180 hitpoint damage (240 critical)
Firing Type: Single-Charge Railgun Shot
Ammo Capacity: 3
Effective Range: Medium & Long
Bullet Drop: None
Recoil: High
Weapon Design:A matte-black and white, full-body scythe with sleek silver linings and glowing circuitry that cycles through neon blue, green, orange, and red. Its crescent-shaped laser blade is forged from blackened steel with pulsing blue energy veins. The rear houses a magnetic rail channel that functions as the railgun's barrel. Four glowing card suit symbols are etched across the weapon:
Spade: Cannon Barrel
Heart: Dual Handgrips
Club: Energy Generator (near the head of the scythe)
Diamond: Blade Base (glows during slash attacks)
Includes a digital scope (when scoping/aiming in) with holographic sights and energy vents that release steam and sparks after each shot.
Skills of the Final Draw:
> Hearts Wager Shot(Consumes 25% of the wielder's HP to fire a piercing red laser beam. Inflicts bleeding damage. Can be used up to 3 times depending on remaining HP.)
> Clubs Reversal(Activates a green energy shield for 5 seconds. Reflects incoming attacks back at enemies. Normal Attacks: Costs 25% stamina, reflects full damage. Unique Boss Attacks: 75% success chance, costs 50% stamina, reflects half damage. Cooldown: 45 seconds)
> Diamonds Mark of Ruin(Performs a horizontal blue energy slash. Marks enemies with a floating diamond, increasing all damage they take for 35 seconds. Cooldown: 1 minute 20 seconds)
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Hoshigari grinned as he grasped the freshly forged weapon now resting firmly in both hands—Final Draw, his custom-made Scythe-Railgun Hand-Held Cannon, a wicked fusion of elegance and firepower. With a quick twirl, he spun the weapon around his body, its metallic frame humming with suppressed power, catching glints of light off its razor-sharp scythe edge and segmented railgun chamber.
"Hella! Sick!" Hoshigari shouted with a wild grin as he finished the spin and slung Final Draw across his shoulders with theatrical flair. The smooth but weighty grip felt right—like an extension of his will.
[Right-Handed & Left-Handed Weapon Equipped: Final Draw]
Noctatsu, rematerialized and crouched lazily on his shoulder, whistled in awe. "What a glorious weapon indeed!"
Ultyr leaned forward from behind the forge counter with a wide, proud grin. "Take good care of that beaut, Mr. Hoshigari!" he called out, crossing his arms. "Come back from time to time for repairs and maintenance!"
Hoshigari nodded firmly. "You got it, Ultyr. Thanks again, really."
He turned on his heel, cloak fluttering behind him, and gave a sharp nod to Elodie—his silent signal. The short Oni girl instantly perked up and approached the torii gate console. Without a word, she pressed her palm to the glowing runes. The gate whirred and came to life, its crimson torii rings illuminating with layered arcane circuits.
Meanwhile, Hoshigari flicked open his inventory, equipping his disguise gear.
[Face Equipment (Swapped) - Fox Holo-Mask of Unrecognition]
[+5 Bonus SP Added to Defense]
[+10 Bonus SP Added to Arcana]
[Bonus SP Added, Distributed & Changed!]
Perception: 135 (+5 {-20})
Defense: 50 (+24)
Arcana: 33 (+25)
With the gate now fully humming and open, Hoshigari laid his Final Draw on his shoulder, the gleam in his eyes hidden behind his mask.
"Time to give our new weapons a test drive." He said with a smirk as he stepped into the portal, the blue light wrapping around his form as he disappeared back into the world of Exo-Arcana.
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Note: Yes, he tested out his new Cyndraconis Flamethrower Hand-Held Cannon and his Final Draw Scythe-Cannon Railgun Hybrid, against multiple mobs around Exo-Arcana and then he eventually...
[Level 43 >>> Level 44 (LEVEL UP!)]
[Credits: 1,994,626,480]
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