15 Chapter Fifteen – A Short Walk in the Woods (1/2)

I was in no hurry to reach the Coven. I had Karma to apply, and working Levels to regain first.

But now my limits were Ten, not Three. I was so much more dangerous than I looked that it was not funny.

I was also hungry, and when you can catch fish with a hand-thrust, well, raw trout didn't bother me.

The fifty-foot constrictor lunging out to make a meal of me was appreciated.

I leaned back, and my claws drew down the side of its neck. Scales peeled away, blood sprayed. I struck it again as it drew back, and blood spurted as it lost an eye.

It was alarmed, and decisively turned around to flee.

It was convenient scaled leather and a warmer meal, and lo, did I have the ability to eat now. I was after it in a flash, going for the full Karma, and if it turned and tried to bite me at the last, that only made it easier to punch my fingers up under its head and into its brain.

Skinning it and starting the ki-aided tanning process occupied more time.

Scout Levels tonight. Sneak Attacking in a forest, who would do such a thing?

---

She actually sent wereboars. I almost laughed as the dozen porcine berserkers came for me, not knowing what they were getting into. Given their brutish and lusty natures, perhaps unsurprising that she opted to dispose of them via Sama.

My Stealth Ranks were maxed, so I used Assassin's Stance and ambushed them with terrible savagery, Penetrate Damage Reduction dealing with their DR 10/Silver.

Six went into boar form. Only two survived to run away, squealing in fear at the death coming out of the undergrowth so fast and lethally.

Notably, one of the ones staying behind was the boss, and the shiny sword he was swinging around to display the fact. I happened to need a shiny sword right about now, so I hamstrung him, gutted him, and opened up his throat as he fell down bit by bit.

It was DC 23, just a finely-made long sword of human make, and at least it looked like he'd maintained it, simple wide quillons and walnut pommel stone. I patted his balding head with the tusks coming out and too-wide nostrils in thanks, took all their golden nose and ear rings, his belt buckle, and their rings for Investing, and was quite satisfied.

----

”Tremble, I've a temporary home for you,” I said, slowly and lightly etching the Rune of its Name on the weapon. There was a beat in my heart, and the spirit of my Sword flowed down through my hand and into the steel, finding the Rune and momentarily flaring with light.

I had to reraise my Sword again, too, but I didn't mind. I didn't come out here not to fight.