Chapter 26: System store

After vanquishing the Ravynclaw beast, a system message materialized before Kieran's eyes:

[Basic Tier Beast Killed: EXP Gained 100]

[Current EXP: 100/400]

Kieran furrowed his brow, recalling that his first encounter with a Ravynclaw had yielded more experience points. The realization that subsequent kills granted diminishing rewards weighed on him, dampening his initial sense of accomplishment.

Reflecting on this discrepancy, Kieran considered the system's mechanics. He surmised that the increased experience from his first kill might have been a bonus for that initial achievement—a common feature in many role-playing games to encourage new players. This understanding alleviated his concerns, allowing him to focus on his progression with renewed clarity.

He took a moment to steady his breath, the adrenaline of battle still coursing through his veins. As he prepared to depart, something unusual caught his attention—a gaping hole in the beast's chest. Within it, a faint glow pulsed rhythmically.

Curiosity piqued, Kieran knelt beside the carcass and cautiously reached into the cavity. His fingers brushed against something solid and cool. With a gentle pull, he extracted a round, thick, black crystal emitting a subtle hue.

Activating his Analyze skill, the system responded promptly:

[Ravynclaw Beast Crystal]

Tier: Basic

Description: A crystallized essence harvested from a Ravynclaw beast. It contains residual energy and can be utilized for crafting, trading, or absorption.

A prompt followed:

[Would you like to store it in your inventory? Y/N]

Intrigued, Kieran selected Yes. The crystal vanished from his grasp, seamlessly integrating into the system's inventory. A smile of satisfaction spread across his face. Focusing his thoughts, he willed the crystal to reappear, and instantly, it materialized back into his hand. The realization that the system's inventory was mind-responsive thrilled him. He experimented further, making the crystal disappear and reappear at will, each time with increasing confidence.

As he reveled in this newfound capability, another system screen emerged, unveiling the System Store. A vast array of items was displayed, ranging from weapons and armor to elixirs and tools. Each item's price was denoted in beast crystals, indicating their value within this enigmatic economy.

Scrolling through the selection, Kieran's attention was drawn to a particular weapon—a one-handed axe. He tapped on its icon, and the system provided its specifications:

[Item: Shadowcleaver]

Tier: Basic

Description: A finely crafted one-handed axe, balanced for both speed and power. Ideal for close-quarters combat.

Cost: 5 Basic Tier Beast Crystals

The price seemed reasonable, though Kieran had no baseline for comparison. He pondered the system's pricing structure, uncertain if it was fair or inflated. Nonetheless, acquiring such a weapon would undoubtedly enhance his combat effectiveness.

A sudden realization struck him—he had slain two Ravynclaw beasts but possessed only one crystal. Panic surged as he recalled the location of his first kill. Without hesitation, he sprinted back to the site, driven by the urgency to retrieve the missing crystal.

Upon arrival, he was met with a horrifying scene. Three Ravynclaw beasts were feasting on the remains of their fallen kin, their dark forms silhouetted against the dim landscape. The grotesque sounds of tearing flesh filled the air, sending a shiver down Kieran's spine.

One of the beasts lifted its head, blood dripping from its maw, and locked eyes with Kieran. A low growl emanated from its throat, alerting the others. In unison, the trio turned their attention toward him, their snarls resonating with primal menace.

Kieran's heart raced as he assessed the dire situation. Facing a single Ravynclaw had been challenging; confronting three simultaneously was a daunting prospect. He tightened his grip, muscles coiling in preparation for the imminent battle.

"Three at once," he muttered under his breath, steeling himself. "This is going to be a tough fight."

The beasts advanced, their predatory instincts honed and lethal. Kieran's mind raced, formulating strategies and contingencies. He knew that survival hinged on his ability to remain calm and calculated.

As the distance between them closed, Kieran's determination solidified. He was prepared to face the oncoming onslaught, ready to test his mettle against overwhelming odds.