Umbra

Approaching the now immaculate fountain, a sense of pride swells within me. My attention, though, isn't on the statue but on the fabled sword sealed in the tomb beneath. I'm searching for a hidden trigger to unveil the tomb's entrance.

I scrutinize the statue, feeling its surface for any anomalies. After minutes of searching, I discover a subtle button on the statue's back. Hesitating momentarily, I press it. The fountain begins to tremble and, with a thunderous rumble, ascends, revealing the hidden entrance.

Before me lies a dark, narrow staircase descending into the depths. As I step forward, a chill courses down my spine. The air is musty and damp, and the sound of dripping water echoes off the rough, unpolished stone walls. The low ceiling forces me to duck.

My heart races as I delve deeper, the darkness intensifying. A horribly made torch becomes my only guide. At the staircase's end, a large stone door awaits. Pushing it open, torchlight floods a circular room adorned with paintings. In its center rests a large stone coffin, atop which lies the cursed sword.

The sword, with its black-silver hilt and glowing blade, is a sight to behold. As I approach, a system window materializes:

[Cursed Sword of Umbra]

[Rank: Unique ⇧]-[Evolution: 7/8➛.07%]

[Only curse bearers may wield this sword, grown in darkness for millennia.]

The sword's rank surprises me; The sword exists for the spirit of Ilka to impart martial arts skills to the

main character. I had anticipated it being of a rare rank at most, so discovering its unique status exceeded my expectations. Its dark metal blade, reminiscent of a living shadow, emanates an ominous aura. Each side of the fuller is etched with six runes, the point sharply designed for piercing armor.

The black-purple guard shines metallically, while the grip, made of an indescribably soft, pure black cloth, feels otherworldly. Its small, box-shaped pommel matches the guard in color.

As I grasp the sword, it adjusts its weight to suit me. A black aura emanates from the grip, encircling my arm and infusing me with a strange energy. Six black lines, like tattoos, etch themselves onto my skin, causing a searing pain. The sword now feels inseparable from me.

"Hmm? Is this some sort of proof of ownership?" I muse, examining the tattoo.

[Host has successfully soul-bound to ‘Cursed Sword of Umbra’]

[Cursed Sword of Umbra]

[Durability: ∞]

[Runic Abilities]

Sharpness: Increases by 50% when activated.

Camouflage: Can alter the appearance of the blade when activated.

Soul-bound: User may summon the weapon from any location.

Strength: When holding the weapon, strength increases by 45%.

Slice: When activated, it can cut through anything twice a day.

Absorb: When activated, Aura or magic within a 3-meter radius can be absorbed.

[Sword Skills]

Nocturnal: In Darkness, user's senses are amplified by 80%.

Nighter: In darkness, eyesight is impeccable.

Shadow: When activated, under any shadow, if one does not move, one becomes invisible.

[Notice: The Cursed Sword of Umbra refuses to fight anyone with holy power.]

"Tsk, seriously, this sword refuses to fight against holy power." Aside from that, it seems this sword is great. It's a bit unpleasant that its abilities are tied to fighting in the dark, but overall, it's impressive.

I am amazed by the abilities of the Cursed Sword of Umbra. I can't wait to experiment with the camouflage ability and discover what other tricks the sword has up its sleeve. I decide to start with the camouflage ability and see if I can change the appearance of the blade into something different.

[Hidden Task Complete]

[Congratulations! You have drastically changed the future. A total of 400 points will be awarded.]

[Finally, you did something, you lazy bum.]

"Tsk, is it your job to be rude?"

[You're the only one complaining here ಥﭛಥ]

"Tsk, why are you bothering me? Just get to the point."

[With your current points, you are eligible for your first-time purchase discount. Would you like to view the available options?]

"Just say it sooner next time. Show me the options."

[Skill: Breath Control]-[Low Ranked]-[Increases lung capacity by 10%, calms mind during heavy breathing, reduces risk of heart attacks]

[Skill: Balance]-[Low Ranked]-[Prevents tripping or falling, natural aptitude for dancing]

[Skill: Math]-[Low Ranked]-[Slight increase in understanding of mathematics, enables fast mental calculations]

Are these my only options? I guess I was expecting too much. After all, it's only 400 points. There's no need to decide. I knew I was going for breath control the moment I saw it. While breath control may seem weak, its true value lies in its fusion with other skills. It's perfect for any close-range fighter, and since I have a sword, there’s no need to decide. As I touch the system window and choose [Breath Control], a tingling sensation washes over me. My breathing slows and feels purer.

Holding the blade, I sense something unusual. Focusing on the blade, it’s probably the spirit of Ilka trying to communicate. She must have sensed something odd, but it's too late. I'm now the owner of this sword, and she can't change that. I could allow her to speak to me, but it seems best to do that another time.

Concentrating on the blade, I visualize it changing form. Gradually, the blade shimmers and transforms before my eyes into a sleek black-silver bracelet. It's astounding; the sword is now a piece of jewelry I can wear on my wrist.

Next, I decide to see if I can turn the sword into a necklace. Channeling my energy into the bracelet, I imagine it morphing into a necklace. The bracelet shimmers again, transforming into a beautiful black gemstone necklace. The gemstone is unique, a deep black with a slight purple hue.

Getting the hang of the camouflage ability, I'm excited to discover what other forms the sword can take. I decide to try turning it into a wooden sword, commonly used by beginner swordsmen.

Focusing my energy on the necklace, I envision it transforming into a wooden sword. The necklace shimmers once more, and then it becomes a simple wooden sword. The wooden sword is rough and unpolished, perfect for beginners.

Impressed by the versatility of the Cursed Sword of Umbra, I acknowledge the camouflage ability's remarkable nature. Deciding to turn it into a wooden sword. I can't keep it as a piece of jewelry, or I'll get mugged.