Testing went awful. Guess I shouldn't have been surprised for my first attempt. The first disappointment was that on a regular shot, the Mana Crystal only lasted for six shots. Second, I had to give the shaft time to cool down. The damage on it was nice though. It could damage regular armor and had even put a few holes in the dummy where it wasn't armored.
Popping in another Mana Crystal, I switched to the three-shot semi-automatic setting. Six shots and the crystal was depleted with the shaft far warmer than it should have been, plus there was a nasty recoil.
Still, it did what it was supposed to do, and using several dummies this time around, I could see the use of being able to fire off short, rapid shots.
In the end it was the power shot that killed the gun. It took several seconds to charge, which was several seconds too long. The recoil on it was horrendous, and the one shot drained the entire crystal. Sure, the dummy got vaporized, but the shaft of the Dilstol was ruined. Namon patted my shoulder,” It was a good first trial, Sara. Your weapon has a lot of potential. My advice is that it seems you put too much energy into the runes and maybe make the lines a bit finer. That should help regulate the energy better. “
I couldn't help but smile, not just at the praise but the advice. He wasn't condescending about it. His tone was kind, as his own intention was to perhaps pass along information he had learned the hard way himself in the past. Before I left, I picked up leather and silk for Spring to use in making my armor.
I put modifying the Dilstol on hold for the time being. I would have to make a new prototype, but hopefully, with a bit more study and taking in Namon's advice, I could have a working weapon before the end of the week. I would make one for myself and Marie.
A bit of searching, I found how to make a charging station for the crystals. It was pretty simple, really. I could make an inscribed rune to convert regular mana to Sexual Energy, charging each crystal with the proper type. I used the [Transmuter] to make the parts for that. With so much left on my to do list for today I headed back into the main shelter, I texted Spring to let her know I had the materials and would leave them at the front desk for her to pick up in the morning. I got a quick confirmation on it, and she added in little smiley faces with hearts. She was flipping adorable.
I headed into the bedroom and took another skill crystal. I was almost done with them. A few hours later, and I was back in the forge working on the molds for Marie's bombs. Or EAB. Explosive Anal Beads. I liked that better. As if thinking of her made her appear, Marie stepped in. “Mistress, you said this weekend we would figure out my race. “
She was polite, but I could tell she was getting anxious about getting her stuff completed. “Good thing you reminded me. Oh, hey, can you make something explosive? I have an idea on how to use your acid, but I am looking for something that can go boom as well. “
She thought for a minute, “I can. Anything I make is not going to be that strong, but still should do some damage, “I nodded. I could take care of amplifying it. Seems the [Lust] rune would do the trick.
Lust
Lust mana is a combination of Sexual Energy and Fire Mana. Things can get rather heated when lust is involved. There is more to lust than just wanting to ravage a tight little ass. Some lust for the thrill of the battle and for things that go boom. This rune is very volatile. You have been warned.
I had figured out how to make an [Explosive Lust] Rune. Not that much different from the Sexual Energy one. Of course, I had to deal with some trial and error. Lost my eyebrows while figuring it out.
They did grow back, thankfully. Getting my thoughts back on track, I brought up Marie's race options.
Choose One
Human
Neko-Kin(U)
Neko-Oni (R)
Nekomani (RE)
I laughed when I saw the choices. “Well, Marie, it would seem to me that either the System has plans for you or you have developed a Kink for the Cat girl. I saw her cheeks turn a bright red. “ Well, that answers that question.” I brought up the last two options to see what the difference was.
Neko-Oni
Demon Neko-kin. The mischievous Kittens may look cute, but you will find yourself naked, in one of the many layers of hell, with a hangover, and chained to the wall in a Greater demon's dungeon. They are often associated with sex demons, a favorite among the perverted Warlocks. If captured, they make powerful slaves. They wield fire and sex magic with skill that should scare even the stoutest of hearts.
+1 to Cha and Int /LV
+1 to Dex and Vit 3/LV
At Lv 1, gain the following skills and abilities.
2 Fire spells.
1 additional Fire spell gained 5/Lv
Lv 5
Affinity: Sexual Energy
1 Sexual energy ability 5/lv
Shape shift: Human/Neko-Kin
Nekomani
This Species of Neko is a rare variant. Often thought of as one of the original races from the very first universe. If this race shows up in a universe, you can be guaranteed they will hold a large empire. Nekomani is one of the most diverse species in existence. Holding many subspecies that are specialized with a high breeding rate. It is hard to hold them down. Just don't try to give them head pats.
I look at Marie, “Well, what are you thinking. I am going to assume that with the last one, what your bonuses are will depend on the species. “Marie seemed unsure how to answer. “ Go ahead. I want to hear your thoughts before I make a decision.”
I continued to work on the mold as we talked. I set the mold to hold several-sized beads. The design of the explosive beads would include a small indentation in the mold. Then I would make the cap to screw in using the transmuter.. These I would make out of the Dertainium The other set I would make out of the Feron. I would soak the beads in the alchemical liquid. An example would soaking in the acid turning the balls into exploding acidic shards of metal.
It takes her a few minutes to respond, “Honestly, Mistress, I like the Neko-Oni Better. It gives me a bit more diversity in combat, I am sure I can use my fire affinity to make more specialized potions, and I feel in the long run the race fits better with you.”
I couldn't argue with that argument. It wasn't like the race was a slouch either. I decided to agree with it, and I grinned watching as her body slimmed slightly, gaining more of a depth of curves. Dark red ears formed, peeking out from her black hair. Fur sprouted along her arms and legs, and her hair gained more volume as her skin took on a reddish tint. A long tail formed from her tail bone, matching her ears and fur. Her irises turned a deep red, almost like they were on fire, to say the least. She was hot before, but now she was smoking hot. To say that sometimes I was glad people couldn't read my thoughts was a good thing.
“Holy shit.” I wasn't sure if there was anything else to say to that. Guess it was a good thing she could shape shift; otherwise, she would be stuck in the shelter. I watched her do a twirl as she looked at herself, and a smile on her face showed her small, pointed teeth.
“Oh, I like it. “Her voice held a more sensuous quality as the words seemed to purr out of her. Pure sex in kitten form.
Choose two
Fire Aura
Creates an aura that surrounds the user 1ft/5 Lv. Increases damage to fire skills and abilities, as well as damaging those caused within the aura.
Fire Shard
Shoot a shard of flame up to 30 ft., dealing magical fire damage.
Fire Trap
Create up to two hidden traps within five feet of you. Once triggered, it deals magical fire damage.
Fire Shield
Thinking on it for a moment, I choose [Fire shard] and [Fire Aura]
Marie seemed happy with the choices. “I am going to go work on those potions for you, Mistress. I am looking forward to seeing your work in action,” she gave me a wink, her tail swishing as she headed out, and I smirked, watching that tight butt move as the portal shut.
Getting the ingots set into the crucibles, I started the process while moving on to work on making the frames for the Dilstols. The concern I felt was that the base metals seemed to do the trick, but there had to be a way to make the frame more durable. One of the things I noticed when browsing the shop was the lack of what I could only think of as Damascus steel. Everything seemed so bland. It gave me something to look into. Was it possible? Or was it just not used? Or was there some other reason? As far as I understood it, that technique made not only for better-looking weapons, but the steel was also stronger.
I brought up my tech interface as the crucibles melted the metals. “Is there a formula for a Damascus-type steel available? “ It was worth a shot. I've seen YouTube videos on it, but most of what I had seen was on how to turn the iron to steel. The technique for it was complicated. It had a lot to do with timing and getting the carbon levels just right. There had to be someone out in the multiverse who found a way to take these base metals and do something better with them. It took a few minutes, and of course, it was under a Patent. United Earth Guild?
United Earth Guild
A guild was created that only allows denizens of Earth as members. They span hundreds of multiverse Earths to protect cultures lost to System Integration.
Apply here.
Well, that is a rather straightforward description. I liked those. I filled out the application. I was always of the mind that it never hurt to shoot your shot. Though this case didn't involve doing the nasty.
By the time I was done, the metal had melted enough for me to pour them into the molds. I made thirty of each type of bead, and by the time I finished, I was able to pull the heated metal out from the forge and, using the power hammer, began working on forming the metal for the frame for my Dilstols. I hadn't looked at my skills in a while, so I took a moment to see that I had gotten closer towards the next rank with a few of them, including [Naughty Girl].
Looking at the time, I decided to take a break, and I still had other things to take care of. Returning to the main room, Marie was making lunch, and everyone was sitting at the island talking. Grinning as I sat next to Katie. The smell of sweat was in the air, with Tony, Ameri, and Katie all in leather armor and their weapons on. “Take it, everyone had a good workout this morning?” They all nodded.
“Yeah, Katie is getting better at fighting against a tank, and Tony is learning quickly how to fight as one. I am very impressed, “Ameri beamed at the other two. “ You need to get some training, Sara. “
“I know. Later this week. I figure I will start on Tues after our first day of training. I still have to finish my guns. And I am working on some alchemy bombs for Marie. It's a learning process for sure. “Marie set a sandwich in front of me. “ Plus, I got some errands to do today, and I need to catch up on what's going on with the outside world. But I promise I will get in training before we head out to the dungeon on Saturday.”
That seemed to placate Ameri as I dug into my sandwich. After a few bits “Either tonight or tomorrow I would like to talk to you Ameri.” Our eyes met for a moment. It was obvious in her gaze she knew she fucked up and I wasn't going to just let it pass.
“So Tony, what kind of tank are you?” As I took a look at the two short swords on a belt around his waist. I hadn't seen his status sheet yet. “And how are you handling all of this? I know for the rest of us, it's been a bit overwhelming. “
Tony was quiet for a moment. “I won't lie, it's a lot to take in, but I owe you for giving me a chance to prepare. I hate lying to Tina, but I think this is one of those exceptions. As to what I am. I am what is called a [Shield Guardian]. In a nut shell I create temporary shields. They don't last long, and it is draining, so I have to be strategic about using them, but I am developing an understanding. of how to apply them in combat. “
That actually seemed pretty cool, and I could see how that could be extremely useful. “Damn, that's actually kick ass. “ Katie nodded as I assumed she had seen it in action. Finishing my food, “ I'm heading upstairs to catch up on things before the week, then I'm heading back to the shop. Still have a lot to work out. “ With that, I headed to the elevator, and surprisingly, Katie joined me. Not that I was going to complain, we really haven't spent a lot of time together the past few days.
As the doors closed, Katie turned towards me with a concerned look in her eyes. “Sarah, are you OK? You've shut yourself in your room all weekend, and we've barely seen you. “
I sighed as I leaned against the wall of the elevator and gave a thought to her words,” Kinda. I am just feeling so overwhelmed. I am trying to take things a step at a time, but I don't know, it just feels like there is this weight on me, and I don't know if I am ready for this role of Leader. Then to add to it all once the System conversion happens we are getting fucked and not in any good way“
Probably the most honest answer I could give. The door opened, and we both walked to the office in silence as I took a seat on the old leather chair and I booted up my laptop. Katie sat on my lap, leaning against me, giving me a hug while I logged in to my emails, as all the new messages populated.
I felt her lips kiss my cheek.
“Sarah, there is no pressure from us. We understand, and we are trying to just be supportive. But yes, you are our Leader, our Bond Mate. Still, it doesn't mean you have to shoulder it all on yourself. Also, I know you have other deeper concerns, but you are going to have to accept that anything could happen at any time once the System fully comes. “
After a pause she continued, “That means that something serious could happen. You need to be ready for it, just like we have to be ready if something happens to you.” Katie hugged me as we spoke, and I tried not to tear up. She was right, and I would find that center. Just not right now. With a promise to deal with it after we got through our first dungeon, I went back to looking at the screen.
All I could do was nod while reading through my mail. I saw the receipt for my future Fem Bots. Then another note that delivery would happen on Thursday. Well, at least one concern was taken care of. I turned my attention back to Katie,” and how are you holding up? We haven't spoken about your conversation with your father, and I feel bad I haven't been there like I should have been. “
Katie shook her head,” No, you are fine. I needed a few days to really think about the conversation. That and the blade practice have been good for me. Got out a lot of aggression. It helped to clear my head. I love my Dad, and I hope someday he sees he is wrong, but I can't change what he believes. I am hurt, but we both know this was going to be the outcome, and I should have done this a long time ago.” A smile on her face as she leans in, giving me a deep, passionate kiss. Her arms slide around my shoulders as I can feel her body pressing to mine, and I can feel the sudden passion coming from her.