Echo's Retribution

The tutorial of the Ruined Tower harbored a myriad of creatures, ranging from slippery slimes to cunning goblins, but they all shared one common trait—they were weak. The reason behind this phenomenon was evident: humans lacked the strength to confront more formidable adversaries. 

While the tower may appear harsh, its design was rational. It refrained from pitting humans against overwhelmingly powerful opponents, which would inevitably lead to the annihilation of the human race.

However, this didn't imply the absence of strong monsters in the tutorial. As the saying goes, there is always an exception to every rule.

Among the myriad of creatures inhabiting the Ruined Tower, there existed a special type known as the Gate Guardians. Unlike the aggressive monsters, these guardians refrained from attacking humans unless provoked. Positioned near the portal, they stood as formidable sentinels, their strength surpassing the capabilities of ordinary humans.

And currently, in front of Shiva stood one such Gate Guardian, a monstrous entity of colossal proportions. Its form loomed before him, sculpted from bone-white stone and bearing a humanoid shape twisted by an alien design. Four hammer-like arms protruded from its massive frame, rippling with an uneven, almost crystalline texture. A gaping maw filled with serrated teeth dominated its featureless head, eerie and devoid of eyes or a nose—a chilling visage that transcended human recognition.

Standing at least 20-25 feet tall, the Gate Guardian resembled a towering fortress in motion, an imposing presence that would instill fear in the hearts of most. However, despite its intimidating stature, Shiva remained undaunted.

As the Gate Guardian loomed menacingly before him, Shiva absorbed every detail of its formidable form. The bone-white stone exterior gleamed in the dim moonlight, casting an ominous aura. 

As he concealed himself behind a half-destroyed building, Shiva reached into his inventory and retrieved two similar-looking items. They were fist-sized boxes, one gleaming with a shinier surface compared to the other.

"Time to combine these," he muttered to himself.

The items in question were random weapon boxes, one rare and one epic, rewards bestowed upon him by the tower. Given their similar nature, combining them posed no difficulty.

"<Crazy Combine>," he invoked, casting the spell. Instantly, both boxes began to emit a red aura, intertwining as if drawn together by an invisible force.

-Ding!

<Combining the random weapon box (rare) and (epic) successful>

<You have obtained random weapon box (unique)>

_________

<Random Weapon Box>

Rank - Unique

Will randomly receive a unique type weapon upon using the box.

__________

With a satisfied expression, Shiva opened the fist-sized box. Though he could have waited to acquire another epic random box and combined them for something potentially more powerful, his current lack of any weapon urged him to proceed. Whether it was to confront the towering giant before him or to navigate the challenges of the rest of the tutorial, he needed a weapon—his kitchen knife was simply not up to the task of facing the formidable enemies he had planned to encounter.

Following his command, the fist-sized box vanished, replaced by a weapon.

<Congratulations! You have acquired Echo's Retribution>

A hint of surprise mingled with a touch of disappointment flickered in Shiva's eyes.

"Well, it's random for a reason, I guess."

The weapon in his hand was neither the sword he had hoped for nor any other common weapon like a sword, dagger, or long-range weapon like a bow. It was a flail.

As Shiva's fingers curled around the handle of his newly acquired weapon, a sense of anticipation surged through his veins. The flail he now wielded was a formidable sight, commanding attention with its presence. Crafted from polished oak, the handle exuded rugged strength, fitting snugly in his grip. At the opposite end, a length of gleaming steel chain hung ominously, its links whispering promises of swift and devastating strikes. But it was the striking head that truly captivated him—a solid metal sphere, studded with vicious spikes, ready to unleash havoc upon his foes. As he twirled the flail expertly, feeling its weight and balance, a surprised look crossed his face.

"Look at this! It isn't too bad!"

After familiarizing himself with the flail, Shiva decided to inspect its attributes.

_________

<Echo's Retribution>

Type - Flail

Rank - Unique

Description - In the realm of ancient legends, there existed a warrior known as Ralgar the Demonbane, whose valorous deeds echoed throughout history. Armed with Echo's Retribution, a flail forged in the remnant fires of celestial smiths, Ralgar waged war against the infernal hordes that threatened his empire and crushed the terrible demons.

Abilities - 

1. Chains of Resonance - When infused with mana, the chain of Echo's Retribution extends from the handle, enabling the wielder to strike enemies from a greater distance with devastating force.

2. Demon's Bane - Each blow from Echo's Retribution carries with it the wrath of ages past, dealing not only physical but also internal damage to opponents, shattering their resolve and leaving them vulnerable to further assaults.

__________

"Ohh...! Although it's not particularly my weapon of choice, it's perfect for 'him,'" Shiva mused, his eyes drifting towards the white giant, a murderous gleam appearing in his eyes.

"Let's not make him wait any longer."

Quickly distributing his free attribute points, focusing more on enhancing his strength and agility, Shiva completed his preparations.

With the weapon in one hand, Shiva stepped out of his hiding place. Simultaneously, mana within him began to swirl. With efficient proficiency, he directed the mana from his heart to his hand and then to the flail.

Instantly, the chain extended, and the metal sphere at the end of the chains fell to the ground with a thud. As expected, the sound didn't go unnoticed by the giant, which turned towards Shiva, regarding him as if he were a mere ant. Shiva smiled in response.

"Hoy, Big Head! Aren't you tired from just standing there all alone? Let me help you a bit."

Gripping Echo's Retribution tightly, Shiva swung the flail. However, the target was not the giant but the gate slightly behind it.

The giant's eyes widened in surprise, and as if understanding Shiva's intention, it moved its fists, punching the metal sphere with enormous force. The flail flew back as a result, momentarily disturbing Shiva's footing.

But instead of disappointment, a smile spread across Shiva's face.

Ding!

<The Goliath of Dread has attacked you!>

<The Title - Crafty Vengeance has been triggered>

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