Chapter 6: The First Hunt‎

‎Morning Preparation

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‎As the first rays of sunlight filtered through the inn's windows, Takumi and Unohana prepared for their quest. After a simple breakfast, they checked their gear. Takumi ensured he had his map, dagger, and potions, while Unohana donned her cloak, secured her medical kit, and fastened her katana to her side.

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‎"Are you ready, Unohana?" Takumi asked.

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‎"Always, Young Master," she replied with her usual calm demeanor.

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‎Into the Forest

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‎The duo headed to the outskirts of the city, where the slime infestation had been reported. The forest was lively with the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves, but Takumi couldn't shake a slight nervousness.

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‎"This will be our first fight together," he thought.

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‎Unohana noticed his unease. "Do not worry, Young Master. I am here to protect you."

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‎Her reassuring tone calmed him, and they ventured deeper into the forest.

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‎The Slime Hunt

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‎Soon, they encountered their first slime—a translucent, jelly-like creature about the size of a watermelon.

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‎"Here it comes!" Takumi shouted.

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‎"Allow me," Unohana said, stepping forward. She unsheathed her katana with grace and precision, slicing the slime cleanly in two.

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‎A glowing core dropped from the remains, which Takumi picked up and stored in his bag.

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‎They continued their hunt, encountering more slimes of varying sizes and colors. Takumi even managed to defeat a few smaller ones with his dagger, though it took considerable effort.

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‎"Young Master, your technique is improving," Unohana commented.

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‎"Thanks, but I still have a lot to learn," he admitted, wiping sweat from his brow.

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‎By midday, they had collected over 50 slime cores.

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‎Unexpected Encounter

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‎As they prepared to return to the city, a large, menacing slime emerged from the bushes. It was significantly larger than the others and emitted a faint glow, indicating it was a mutated variant.

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‎"Stay back, Young Master. This one is dangerous," Unohana warned.

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‎Despite her caution, Takumi wanted to help. He activated his Appraisal skill to analyze the creature:

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‎Name: Mutated Slime

‎Rank: D

‎Abilities: Acidic Splash, Regeneration

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‎Unohana engaged the creature, her katana movements swift and precise. The slime countered with acidic projectiles, but she dodged with ease. Finally, she unleashed a powerful slash, cutting through its core and defeating it.

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‎"That was intense," Takumi said as he retrieved the core.

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‎"Indeed. Such a creature is rare for this area," Unohana replied.

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‎Returning to the Guild

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‎Back at the guild, Takumi and Unohana presented their haul of slime cores.

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‎"Impressive work! Over 50 cores, including a mutated slime core? That's exceptional for a first quest," the receptionist praised.

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‎Their reward was substantial—several gold coins and a small bonus for the mutated core.

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‎"You're off to a great start," the receptionist added.

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‎Evening Celebration

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‎After a successful day, Takumi and Unohana returned to the inn. They enjoyed a celebratory meal, discussing their first quest.

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‎"You fought beautifully today, Unohana," Takumi said.

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‎"Thank you, Young Master. You showed great promise as well," she replied with a smile.

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‎As the evening wore on, Takumi felt a sense of accomplishment. He was starting to find his place in this world.