Snake Calendar, Year 2025
20th Day of September, Saturday Afternoon
Verdant Hollow, Newly Built Adventure Stronghold
A week ago, under the direction of the Outpost Captain and Outpost Commander, construction began on a new stronghold within Verdant Hollow. This location serves as both a resting place for adventurers and a key point for relaying information, particularly about potential threats. It's strategically positioned between the outer and inner regions of the hollow to monitor and respond to abnormal events, especially the emergence of dangerous creatures.
The chain of command within the Adventure Outpost is both complex and vital to its function. While the Outpost Leader oversees local operations, the highest authority rests with the General of the Adventure Outpost, a retired yet celebrated veteran. Renowned for his battlefield experience, he now prefers handling the strategic paperwork that ensures the smooth operation of the outpost.
Hierarchy of the Adventure Outpost
The Adventure Outpost is structured with multiple levels of command. Below the General are two Lieutenant Generals, followed by four Major Generals, and then eight Brigadier Generals. These high-ranking officers ensure that operations run seamlessly across various regions. Beneath them are officers in ranks such as Colonel, Lieutenant Colonel, Captain, Vanguard Commander, Commander, and Major, each playing crucial roles in maintaining order and executing missions.
Interestingly, the Adventure Outpost operates as a hybrid organization where individuals serve as both adventurers and soldiers. However, unlike other professions where influence can be bought, entry into the outpost is strictly merit-based. Adventurers must prove their worth through rank advancements and accomplishments, ensuring only the most dedicated individuals protect the city and its citizens from threats—whether human or otherwise.
The Nova Military Base Connection
Though the Adventure Outpost and the Nova Military Base work closely together, they are distinct in their operations. Military personnel take orders from the General of Strategic Operations, who oversees the Nova Military Base. Despite this separation, their rank structures bear similarities:
Adventure Outpost Rank - Military Rank
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This dual ranking system ensures both adventurers and soldiers can efficiently collaborate during operations.
The Stronghold in Verdant Hollow
The newly established stronghold in Verdant Hollow is strategically located at the boundary between the outer and inner regions. The outer part of the hollow is accessible to Newbie Adventurers, as it hosts relatively weaker monsters. However, deeper into the outer zone and approaching the inner region, the dangers increase significantly. Trainee Adventurers are advised to proceed only with caution and in groups.
The boundary between the outer and inner regions is marked by runes, which emit alerts when adventurers cross into more dangerous territory. These runes were implemented after physical markers, like signs, were repeatedly destroyed by beasts and monsters for unknown reasons. Unlike physical markers, runes seem impervious to damage and disappear and reappear as needed. Their presence has greatly enhanced adventurer safety.
Currently, there are five strongholds within Verdant Hollow, with plans to construct an additional ten. These strongholds function as rest zones where adventurers can recover, repair equipment, and access crucial information. They are designed to be safe havens, minimizing the risk of ambushes by creatures or treachery from fellow adventurers.
Saturday Afternoon, The Outer Part of Verdant Hollow
Sitting atop one of the towering trees of Verdant Hollow, Accel took a moment to catch his breath. The view from the treetops was serene, with sunlight filtering through the dense canopy and casting patterns on the forest floor below. Yet, his mind was far from peaceful. His Archivist System, now more advanced, presented him with an important choice: to select a sub-system that would define the next stage of his growth.
Accel had spent days contemplating the five available sub-systems: Swordsman, Mage, Thief, Healer, and Archer. Each had its strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right one would significantly impact his journey. Despite his rapid progression to level 50, Accel knew he couldn't afford to rush this decision. The Archivist System's ability to adapt and evolve was unparalleled, but it required thorough understanding and mastery of the chosen path.
Finally, after much deliberation, Accel decided to pursue the Swordsman sub-system. He admired the simplicity and effectiveness of the sword, and he believed it complemented his current abilities. However, unlocking the sub-system wasn't as simple as making a selection. The Archivist System imposed several conditions:
Neural Commands: Accel needed to master specific commands tied to the Swordsman sub-system, such as "Fire Sword Enhancement," which imbued his weapon with flame attributes, or "Blade Dance," an advanced combat skill requiring precise execution. However, the Blade Dance is locked and Accel needs his Sword and Shield Mastery to reached Advanced First Level.
Auto-Adaptation: Proficiency in sword techniques and maneuvers had to reach a minimum threshold. This included gaining basic mastery of attacks and learning beginner moves like Sword Whirlwind and Shield Bash.
Attribute Requirements: To wield the power of the Swordsman sub-system effectively, Accel had to meet specific attribute benchmarks. This meant increasing his strength, agility, and endurance through continuous training and leveling up.
System Knowledge: Accel had to thoroughly understand the mechanics, history, and strategic applications of the Swordsman sub-system. Without this knowledge, the Archivist System wouldn't unlock its full potential.
Completion of Challenges: The Archivist System required Accel to complete specific trials related to the sub-system. These trials tested his adaptability, resourcefulness, and combat prowess.
As Accel reflected on these requirements, he felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. The path ahead would be arduous, but it was also an opportunity to grow stronger. He tightened his grip on his sword, feeling its weight and balance in his hands. The Verdant Hollow stretched endlessly before him, a realm teeming with challenges and secrets waiting to be uncovered.
With a deep breath, Accel descended from the tree and prepared to begin his journey as a Swordsman. The Verdant Hollow, with its hidden dangers and untold mysteries, would be the perfect testing ground for his new abilities. And so, with determination burning in his eyes, Accel took his first step toward mastering the Swordsman sub-system and uncovering the full potential of the Archivist System's new mode.