The cool morning air greeted Marcus as he slipped out of the house, crowbar in hand and a new sense of determination driving him. The knowledge he'd been accumulating was useful, but it was time to put theory into practice. Skills like foraging, basic mechanics, and first aid were essential, and today he planned to test them in controlled but practical situations.
Scavenging for Supplies
Marcus headed toward the woods behind the neighborhood, his system map guiding him. It highlighted areas with potential resources, marking edible plants, abandoned tools, and possible water sources.
He crouched by a patch of vegetation, consulting his memory from the survival guide. A cluster of wild onions grew in the soft earth, their distinct smell confirming their identity.
"Alright," Marcus muttered, pulling them out carefully.
Skill Progression: Survivalist Knowledge
Foraging: +10%
Satisfied, he continued deeper into the woods. Along the way, he tested the map's accuracy, marking areas of interest for later.
A Sudden Encounter
As he rounded a bend near a dried creek bed, Marcus froze. A walker was shuffling aimlessly, its gaunt frame and torn clothing blending into the forest's shadows. It hadn't noticed him yet, but it was a perfect opportunity to practice.
Gripping his crowbar tightly, Marcus advanced quietly, his system interface displaying a helpful overlay of his movements.
Tip: Approach quietly to avoid detection. Aim for the skull for instant neutralization.
He swung hard, the crowbar connecting with the walker's temple. It crumpled instantly.
Walker Neutralized: +10 XP
Skill Progression: Close-Combat: Walker Neutralization +15%
Marcus stepped back, steadying his breathing. Each encounter with a walker was a grim reminder of what lay ahead.
Practical First Aid
Further into the woods, Marcus came across an injured stray dog limping near a fallen log. Its leg was caught in a makeshift snare trap.
"Easy, boy," Marcus said softly, kneeling to assess the situation.
Using his knowledge from the first-aid book, he freed the dog's leg and applied a makeshift bandage from his pack.
Skill Progression: First Aid +20%
Skill Unlocked: Animal First Aid (Novice)
The dog, a scruffy mutt with a shaggy coat, licked his hand in gratitude.
"You're coming with me," Marcus decided. He named the dog Scout and figured it could serve as both a companion and an early warning system for walkers.
Testing Mechanics
On his way back, Marcus passed an abandoned pickup truck partially hidden by overgrown bushes. Its tires were flat, and the engine was silent, but he saw potential.
He climbed inside, inspecting the dashboard and engine components. His system highlighted key areas requiring attention.
Skill Progression: Basic Mechanics
Vehicle Repair: +25%
After tinkering for an hour, Marcus managed to get the truck running. The roar of the engine was satisfying, even if he didn't drive it anywhere.
This could be useful later, he thought, noting its location on his map.
Sharing His Progress
When Marcus returned home, Scout trotted beside him, tail wagging. Jeffrey raised an eyebrow at the sight.
"You've been busy," his father remarked, eyeing the crowbar and the dog.
Marcus shrugged. "Just exploring. Found this guy in the woods."
"Hope he's not a stray with rabies," Jeffrey muttered but didn't argue when Scout settled near the couch.
At dinner, Marcus shared some of the wild onions he'd foraged, presenting them as a curiosity. Lori was skeptical but impressed, while Rick asked where he'd learned to identify edible plants.
"Just reading," Marcus said casually.
Jeffrey smirked. "You're turning into quite the little survivalist."
If only you knew, Marcus thought.
System Check-In
That night, Marcus reviewed his progress:
Name: Marcus Grimes
Strength: 4 (+1 from combat)
Agility/Dexterity: 4 (+1 from fieldwork)
Endurance: 3 (+1 from physical exertion)
Intelligence: 5
Wisdom: 4 (+1 from practical experience)
Luck: 10 (Locked)
Skills:
Basic First Aid (Intermediate)
Basic Mechanics (Intermediate)
Close-Combat: Walker Neutralization (Intermediate)
Survivalist Knowledge (Novice)
Foraging (Novice)
Animal First Aid (Novice)
Marcus closed the interface with a sense of accomplishment. His plans were taking shape, and each day brought him closer to ensuring his family's survival.
"Tomorrow, I'll teach them more without them realizing it. One step at a time."