Chapter 29: Ripples of Battle
Amidst the tranquil surroundings of the verdant forest, Necro's senses were on high alert. The air carried a hint of moisture that hinted at the presence of a nearby water source. His instincts tingled as he cautiously ventured deeper into the foliage, his wolf companion and two slimes following closely behind.
As if answering his unspoken thoughts, the rustling of leaves and the soft splash of water heralded the arrival of his adversary—the Hydroport Crawler. Its small form glinted with wetness, its sleek body designed for quick movement both on land and in water. Necro tightened his grip on the hilt of his Common Wolfbone Broad Sword, the blade gleaming in the dappled sunlight.
**Hydroport Crawler**
Hydroport Crawler is a creature with crab-like characteristics. Its sleek and scaly body, aquatic nature, and ability to manipulate water align more closely with a crab or crustacean type of creature.
Size: around 30 cm.
Stats:
- Level: 5
- Type: Aquatic, Teleportation
- Size: Small
- Health Points: 50
- Attack Damage: 12-15 (Physical)
- Defense: 3
- Speed: 8 (On land), 10 (In water)
- Agility: 12
- Water Manipulation: The Hydroport Crawler can manipulate water to create small waves and water-based attacks. It can also use water to aid in its teleportation, leaving behind a splash of water when it teleports.
- Teleportation: The Hydroport Crawler can teleport short distances, allowing it to quickly evade attacks and ambush its prey. It leaves a splash of water at its point of departure and arrival.
- Behavior: Ambush predator that uses its teleportation to surprise and strike at unsuspecting prey. It prefers to stay near bodies of water for easy escape and hunting opportunities.
- Habitat: Lakes, rivers, coastal areas with easy access to water sources.
- Weaknesses: Vulnerable to attacks while reappearing after teleportation. Susceptible to drying out if kept away from water for an extended period.
- Drops: Aquatic-themed crafting materials, teleportation-related items.
******
"Looks like we've got company, my friends," Necro muttered, his eyes locked onto the creature. The Hydroport Crawler's aquamarine eyes fixed on Necro, its intent unmistakably hostile. The creature's ability to manipulate water and teleport made it a dangerous opponent, and Necro knew he had to be cautious.
With a burst of agility, the Hydroport Crawler lunged forward, its movements fluid and graceful. Necro's reflexes kicked in, and he swung his sword just in time to deflect the monster's first strike. The impact reverberated through his arm, reminding him that the Crawler's strength was not to be underestimated.
System: "Skill learned Sword Parry - Level 1"
"Easy there," Necro quipped, his voice laced with a mixture of tension and bravado. "I promise we'll play nicely."
The Hydroport Crawler's response was a hiss that seemed to echo both annoyance and challenge. Without warning, it vanished into thin air, leaving behind a splash of water as evidence of its teleportation. Necro's gaze darted around, his senses on high alert. He heard the faint sound of water droplets hitting the ground and braced himself.
The creature reappeared with a splash of water to Necro's left, its claws aimed at his side. Reacting quickly, Necro sidestepped the attack, narrowly avoiding the Crawler's strike. His heart raced as he regained his balance, the thrill of battle coursing through his veins.
"Well, aren't you full of surprises?" Necro taunted, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "But let me show you something too."
With a swift motion, he activated his Bone Strike skill, channeling the primal energy of the wolf bone into his strike. The sword's edge glowed faintly with arcane energy as he swung it in a powerful arc. The blade connected with the Hydroport Crawler's body, sending a shockwave of impact through its form.
The Crawler hissed in pain, its watery form rippling in response to the attack. Undeterred, it retaliated with a water-based attack, sending a small wave crashing towards Necro. He leaped into the air, his body twisting to evade the surge of water. Landing gracefully, he raised his sword, ready for the next move.
As the battle waged on, a dance of blades and water, Necro's companions came into play. The brown wolf lunged at the Crawler, its teeth bared in a snarl. One of the slimes oozed forward, attempting to slow down the Crawler's movements. The other slime, perhaps eager to prove its newfound fire resistance, sent a globule of fire toward the creature.
The Hydroport Crawler hissed and teleported once again, this time appearing behind Necro. He felt a sudden chill against his back as the Crawler's claws grazed him, leaving a shallow gash. Gritting his teeth, Necro spun around, his sword slashing through the air in a retaliatory strike. The blade found its mark, slicing into the creature's form and earning another hiss of pain.
"Getting a bit too close for comfort, aren't we?" Necro remarked, a wry grin on his face. He could feel the strain in his muscles, the exhilaration of battle mingling with the need for caution.
The Hydroport Crawler's movements began to slow, its watery form showing signs of wear. Necro seized the opportunity, his movements fluid as he delivered a final blow. The blade sliced through the creature's body, its form dissipating like water droplets in the breeze.
Breathing heavily, Necro stood amidst the aftermath of the battle, his sword glinting in the sunlight. He wiped a bead of sweat from his brow and turned to his companions. "Well, that was quite the workout, wasn't it?"
The brown wolf wagged its tail in agreement, and the slimes seemed to ooze contentedly. Necro looked around at the serene forest, his heart still racing from the adrenaline of combat. It was moments like these that reminded him of the challenges and rewards of this new world—a world where each battle was a step towards growth and mastery.
System:"swordsman job level 2"
Now lets check the drops, shall we?