After their triumphant battle against the horde of undead wolves, the trio continued their journey through the fluorescent forest of Asteria. The eerie glow of the mushrooms seemed to light their path, guiding them toward an unknown destiny.
As they ventured deeper into the forest, Alex couldn't help but reflect on their recent victory. Poop, with his cursed dagger "Wolf Bane," had proven to be an invaluable asset. But Alex sensed that there was still untapped potential within the weapon, waiting to be unlocked.
{The System, with its customary snark, couldn't resist commenting, "Ah, the enigmatic power of Wolf Bane. What mysteries does it hold?"}
As if in response to Alex's unspoken question, a radiant light enveloped the cursed dagger. It transformed into a more refined and powerful version, exuding an aura of dread that sent shivers down the spines of even the bravest creatures.
"It seems Wolf Bane has evolved," Alex observed, his excitement palpable.
{The System, with its usual dose of sarcasm, chimed in, "Well, aren't we fancy now? Upgraded gear for the aspiring hero."}
With this evolution, the cursed dagger acquired a new title, a testament to its newfound prowess.
[Alpha Hunter's Bane]
This upgraded title bestowed a passive skill upon Poop. Wolves of lesser rank would now cower in fear, their aggression quelled by the presence of Alpha Hunter's Bane. However, the stronger and more formidable wolf creatures would feel an intense enmity, making them prioritize Poop as their primary target.
As they continued their journey, the trio faced a new challenge—Poop's evolution. With the ghoul now reaching level 10, it was time for him to choose his path forward. The choices for evolution were as diverse as they were peculiar.
Ghoul Mage: This evolution would grant Poop the ability to manipulate dark magic, allowing him to cast spells with a ghastly twist.
Bone Marauder: Poop would become a master of melee combat, using bone weaponry to strike fear into his enemies.
Ethereal Harbinger: As an ethereal entity, Poop would gain the ability to phase through obstacles and become nearly invisible.
Necrotic Alchemist: With a knack for concocting deadly brews, Poop could use alchemical skills to create powerful poisons and potions.
Blood Drinker: This evolution would grant Poop the ability to control blood, allowing him to manipulate and drain the life force of his foes.
As Alex pondered the choices, the System couldn't help but insert its own brand of humor into the mix. "So, what's it going to be, Alex? The fate of our ghoul companion rests in your hands."
Alex considered the options carefully. Each evolution had its unique strengths and quirks, but ultimately, he decided that the path of the Blood Drinker held the most potential. It would grant Poop the skill he named "Blood Work," allowing him to control blood to some extent.
"Blood Work," Alex thought, intrigued by the possibilities.
{The System, never one to miss an opportunity for mockery, chimed in, "Ah, yes, the classic choice of blood manipulation. Practical for a ghoul, don't you think?"}
With the decision made, Poop's form underwent a remarkable transformation. His aura now resonated with a sinister energy, a testament to the newfound power coursing through his veins.
With Poop's evolution into a Blood Drinker, his status and skills underwent a significant transformation, reflecting the newfound abilities and potential that came with this path.
Poop – Blood Drinker Ghoul - Level 10
Rank: D
Strength: 8 (+3 from equipment bonus)
Agility: 10 (+3 from equipment bonus)
Dexterity: 7 (+2 from equipment bonus)
Vitality: 10 (+2 from equipment bonus)
Intelligence: 5 (+2 from equipment bonus)
Luck: 52
Equipment:
Alpha Hunter's Bane (Cursed Dagger): This dagger, now upgraded from Wolf Bane, grants an additional bonus to Poop's attributes, including Strength, Agility, Dexterity, Vitality, and Intelligence. It also possesses an enmity effect against wolves.
Equipment Bonus:
Strength: +3
Agility: +3
Dexterity: +2
Vitality: +2
Intelligence: +2
Alpha Hunter's Bane (Passive): Wolves of lower rank cower in fear before Poop, while stronger wolves feel an intense enmity toward him.
Cooldown: None
Wolf Bane: Poop's cursed dagger, now upgraded to Alpha Hunter's Bane, retains its enmity against wolves and possesses greater power.
Cooldown: None (As it is a title, it doesn't require a cooldown)
Pupeeter: Poop can briefly control an entity or object for a duration equal to his Intelligence attribute.
Cooldown: 7 days
Blood Work: Poop can control and manipulate blood, allowing him to drain the life force of his foes or use it in various creative ways.
Cooldown: Varies based on the complexity of the manipulation (e.g., simple manipulation has a 10-second cooldown, while more complex actions may have a longer cooldown).
Rancid Roar: Emits a horrifying sound that terrifies weaker enemies, causing them to flee in panic.
Cooldown: Varies based on the situation.
Decaying Touch: Inflicts a decaying effect on the target, causing gradual damage over time.
Cooldown: Varies based on the target's resistance.
The Spectral Step: Allows Poop to phase through objects and attacks, granting temporary invulnerability.
Cooldown: Varies based on the duration of the phase.
Ghoul's Grasp: Restrains and immobilizes a target with spectral energy, rendering them temporarily incapacitated.
Cooldown: Varies based on the target's strength.
Noxious Spit: Spews a corrosive substance that hampers an enemy's movements and causes mild damage.
Cooldown: Varies based on the target's reaction.
Eerie Howl: Releases an ear-piercing scream that disorients and terrifies enemies in the vicinity.
Cooldown: Varies based on the enemies' fear resistance.
Identify: Allows Poop to gain insights into the status, abilities, and attributes of a target. Useful for assessing potential threats, identifying loot, and making informed decisions in combat or exploration.
Cooldown: Varies based on the complexity of the target.As Poop's status and abilities evolved, so did his appearance. His form took on a more spectral quality, his flesh becoming translucent, and his eyes radiating a crimson glow.
{The System, unable to resist a snide remark, commented, "Well, well, look at Poop now—master of blood and ghoul of enmity. What a fascinating combination."}
Princess Seraphina, who had been observing the evolution with curiosity, couldn't hide her astonishment. "This is remarkable," she exclaimed. "I've never encountered a ghoul with such unique abilities. You're truly a one-of-a-kind companion, Poop."
Poop, in his usual limited vocabulary, responded with a simple yet somehow eloquent, "Poop."
{The System, always quick with the mockery, teased, "Ah, the eloquence of Poop strikes again."}
As the trio continued their journey through the enigmatic world of Asteria, they couldn't help but feel that their companionship had grown even more extraordinary. With Poop's newfound powers and their shared mission to uncover the mysteries of their world, they embraced the absurdity of their adventures and remained ready to face whatever bizarre challenges lay ahead.