Chapter 25

September 3, 2014, Fourth day, Supposedly 4: 25 p.m. Wednesday Earth time

Grey reaches the foot of the third mountain after facing many obstacles along the way, fighting and surviving were not the issue but there was something unnatural about the terrain he entered, the weight of the exo suit should have been easy but the metallic part of the suite became denser and heavier, even his weapons profoundly gain weight, but leaving these behind was not an option, adding to his problem was the thin breathable air, it was in the middle of the afternoon but the area was still bright, the fundamental laws of the earth doesn't apply here, as if it has its source of light that never sets,

as more issues concerning his task, Grey made certain assessments on what or how to overcome the challenges he was facing. He realized that he needed to conserve his energy and prioritize his actions. Additionally, he decided to explore alternative routes or methods that could potentially make his mission more manageable.

Ai suggests that he use his blessings to make his task less inconvenient for him, but Grey never tried to use his blessing, in his mind pain and hardships must be overcome naturally so the body remembers and gain experience in the right way, relaying supernatural abilities will never replace hard work and strength of the mind over the physical body,

at the very foot of the mountain, Grey noticed that the land mass was like the Devils tower in Wyoming, but this particular mountain hill was butte due to its relatively flat top, but the size of this isolated steep vertical mountain was four times the size see-saw in Arizona, climbing this will be suicide without proper climbing equipment, and based on his measurement its about 100 meters tall, Ai suggest to use his seraphic bellings to modify his gear, especially the rope he used to set up the crafted hammock,

Grey asked Ai what those Seraphic rule blessings do, curious about their purpose and effects. Ai explained that the Seraphic rule blessings were divine gifts bestowed upon individuals to enhance their abilities and items provided with characteristics that he needs based on his characteristics and attributes, Ai explained that to give the reforge tool certain properties that he alone can use and personalize, thus the Seraphic rule implies, so Grey thinks he can create and develop the gear that will help him, With this he wasn't cutting corners, thinking stubbornness was not something to be proud of.

thinking rationally was, and his option was to modify his equipment, utilizing the reforge tool to enhance his abilities and tailor them to his specific needs. By doing so, Grey believed he could maximize his potential and gain an edge in battles. With a clear understanding of the risks involved, he embarked on a meticulous process of experimentation and refinement, determined to create the perfect gear that would complement his unique skill set.

Ai showed Grey how to use his blessing effectively, within a few minutes he was able to change the metal composition of the knife he was using with the unpolished knife that the creature that attack him were using,

"How?"

"Just hold the item in your right hand and touch the item that you wish to upgrade with your left hand,"

"and just say equip and modify!"

"Sir, while the raw material is fusing with your equipment, I wish to add certain personalize rules for you to gain more from the fused item,"

"yes, please proceed,"

"HUH? Mithril metal! it that a new kind of metal ?"

"no sir, it's a metal that can only be found at this particular mountain, it's durable and lightweight, most Elven race high regard this metal to be their primary tool in fighting and defence,"

"Mithril Tactical Gauntlet with wrist blade is complete, this will help you sir to climb the vertical wall, "

"Sir might I suggest using this opportunity to modify your current Exo Suite to be updated, including the clothing and shoes you are wearing,"

"yes, please proceed,"

"Using raw materials needed for climbing ."

"Mithril Tactical shoe with a retractable 3-inch blade is complete, "

"Mithril tread complete, fusing with Tactical clothing and body armour is complete, "

"Mithril Tactical Climbing tools, anchors, cams, nuts and hexes, slings, quickdraws, carabiner, complete, "

"Mithril Tactical protective Exo Suite with is complete, "

"Mithril Tactical suppressed maxim 9 pistol complete, "

"Mithril Tactical suppressed maxim 9 pistol complete, "

"Mithril tread complete, fusing with tactical bag, physical bag size from 50x 30 x 30 cm, now 38 x 22 x 24 cm, storage capacity 100 items/weight reduce, "

"Adjusting the classification and type of item can be stored, Ammunition clip with 15 bullets in the chamber is being questioned! "

" Assessing, rules implication to support the main host is being added,"

"Determining ammunition magazine clip with 15 bullets in the chamber is accepted as one item,"

"Proceed, with acceptable parameters, confirmation,"

"Acknowledge!"

"All fused equipment are blessed with divine energy,"

Grey was amazed that he didn't do much, while the AI was assisting him, as he view his new gear he was satisfied and eager to test it, his foothold was no longer in question the 3-inch retractable blade in front of his insole could puncture the stone wall with ease, and using the retractable adjustable wrist blade was helpful,

especially when it came to close combat situations. The AI's assistance not only enhanced his physical abilities but also provided him with tactical insights, making him feel more confident in his abilities,

September 3, 2014, Fourth day, Supposedly 5: 12 p.m. Wednesday Earth time

The hours he spent learning his new equipment were time spent, as Grey quickly noticed a significant improvement in his performance on the field, The modifications allowed him to execute his moves with greater precision and efficiency, giving him an undeniable advantage. Grey prepared for his climb, so he activated his all-seeing eyesight to locate a source of hidden and isolated free-flowing natural springs to replenish his water supply,

recognizing the importance of staying hydrated in his endeavour. Grey was in awe of the immaculate beauty of the natural world as he drew near the spring. The sight had a magical quality to it, with little, unidentified, transparent, floating, yet harmless creatures visible on the small spring, which was about the size of a bathtub, Under the light of the sun, the water shimmered, reflecting hues of blue and green that appeared to dance with each wave.

Grey was intrigued by the scene and couldn't help but feel thankful for having discovered such a hidden treasure throughout his long trip. and the water had a crisp, natural flavour since it came straight from the mountain. Grey lowered himself and cupped his palms, enabling him to take a sip of the refreshing water.

As he tasted its purity, he couldn't help but marvel at the untouched beauty of this secluded oasis. The gentle breeze rustled the surrounding foliage, adding to the serene ambience and making Grey feel at peace with nature not knowing the significance of this small refreshing drink,

Grey went back to begin his ascent after filling his water bottle with spring water. He used the retractable blade on his tactical boots to carefully cut handholds into the rough terrain.

He could feel the adrenaline pumping through his blood with each stride. Grey realized that he had already climbed a few feet up the wall without exerting any effort. After getting approval, he jumped down and asked Ai to make his Exo suit heavier. Grey initially believed he would only use his equipment to save his life and prevent him from falling to his death but doing so would be cheating and he wanted to challenge himself.

and rely only on his capability and power. He thought the only way he could establish his value as a climber was to scale the wall without using his Exo suit. Grey began his rise with resolve in his eyes, prepared to take on the difficult task at hand with just his bare hands and a 25-kilogram extra load on his entire body, knowing that every step would be a test of his physical and mental capabilities.

Grey accepted the challenge, knowing that it would test him to the limit and make his success even sweeter, despite the weight-adding layer of hardship. He could feel the tension in his muscles with each grasp and foothold, but he resisted giving in.

It was hard, but as the weight in his body was making his grip unstable, Gey would take a deep breath and slowly scale the vertical wall, focusing on finding small crevices and ledges for his fingers and toes. He knew that one wrong move could send him plummeting to the ground below, so he concentrated on maintaining a steady rhythm and keeping his mind clear of distractions.

the wind was strong as he reached twenty meters. The only time he would use the Mithril blade on his tactical boots for a secured foothold was when he was resting, allowing him to take a momentary break from the intense physical exertion. Gey knew that relying too heavily on the blade could be risky, as it could potentially damage the delicate mechanisms of his gear, but in moments of fatigue, it provided a much-needed respite before he continued his ascent.

Grey continued to climb until he was able to reach 30 meters, and decided to rest and secure his hammock right after he embedded Mithril anchors and secured the quickdraw, The 100-foot climbing rope was firmly secured, this was the basic training Grey took priority the mountain combat skills, this including land navigation, high-angle marksmanship, first aid, casualty evacuation, and ascending and descending techniques,

which he had honed since he was 15 years old, As he settled into his hammock, Grey couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction for how far he had come. He knew that the challenging terrain and unpredictable weather ahead would test his skills even further, but he was determined to push through and conquer the mountain.

He could only allow himself to sleep for two hours, and after that, he needs to do this again. Again,one single mistake will cost his life; every piece of climbing equipment must be removed and placed back inside his bag as he continues ascent up the mountain again, and like clockwork and strong mental and physical control, Grey was nearing the summit.

The thin air made it difficult to breathe, but he pushed through the exhaustion, focusing on each step and the breathtaking view that awaited him at the top. As he climbed higher, the wind grew stronger, threatening to knock him off balance. Grey tightened his grip on the ropes and reminded himself of his training, knowing that any slip could be fatal.

With each passing moment, his determination grew stronger, fueling his resolve to reach the summit and prove to himself that he was capable of the guardians approval .

September 4, 2014, Fifth day, Supposedly 7: 23 a.m. Thursday Earth time

As soon as he was able to reach the flat summit, he noticed the mountaintop was covered in vegetation and a sizable infrastructure a few miles away, perhaps at the centre of the flat summit. If Grey's calculation was accurate, he had spent 10 days climbing the mountain. However, he was tired and exhausted, so confirming this was not his top priority. Instead, Grey's immediate concern was to find a spot to rest and regain his strength. As he scanned the area, he spotted a cluster of trees near the edge of the summit that seemed perfect for setting up camp and taking a much-needed break.

September 4, 2014, Fifth day, Supposedly 8:03 a.m. Thursday Earth time

Eight hours of sleep were enough to regain Grey's strength. He woke up feeling refreshed and energized, ready to tackle the challenges of the day ahead. The deep slumber had not only rejuvenated his body but also cleared his mind, leaving him with a renewed sense of focus and clarity.