TAKE ON ME [Survival LITRPG Apocalypse]

Hana squeezed into the cramped [Profession Booth], the damp earth giving way beneath her shoes.

The room shifted, and a dizzy second later it was huge. She took a moment to steady herself.

There was an imposing wooden desk in the center of the room, and a sharply dressed businessman sitting behind it. She approached him. "Excuse me, I'm Hana Robinson. Are you Caretaker Job?" She instinctively reached out her right arm for a handshake, but retracted it when she realized she was only raising a stump.

Job lifted his head from the pile of papers and set his pen down. "Yes, I am. Nice to meet you, Ms. Robinson."

"Likewise." She place her forearm awkwardly back at her side.

Job glanced toward the sinking doorframe. "You may have to come back once you've built another [Profession Booth]. Otherwise you might have to crawl out of here."

"I actually have an idea for a profession that could make this process easier, and I am eager to get to work. If possible."

Job leaned back in his chair and frowned. "I see. Let's hear it."

Hana took a deep breath. "Well, in all this talk of professions, no one seems to be considering where we'll get our tools from to do all these jobs. Personally, I've always seen a job as just a job, and I don't have a passion for any specific type of work. But I do want to be useful. And so, I think we need a toolmaker. If that is something which is available, I would like to fill that role."

"Well . . . it's better than a barely qualified [Cook]." Job leaned forward. "Please have a seat. I do believe we have time for this discussion." He caught a piece of bright blue paperwork that floated from Hana's chest, and began reading it over.

"It says here that you chose [Bone Prosthetic] as your Level 3 ability for your [Hag] specialization. However, it appears you have not used it yet?"

Hana winced. "I just received it, so yes, that is correct."

"I do see two potential specializations that would fit you well as a [Toolmaker], Ms. Robinson." Job glanced at the sinking door, then at his watch. "If you're sure you would like to be a [Toolmaker] then we can proceed to select a specialization as well. Why wait, when you could start using it and mastering the role now?"

"That makes sense. Please tell me more about the specializations."

Flashbacks of past job interviews lurked at the back of her mind. Ones in which the meeting room wasn't trying to crush her. Ones in which she'd been able to shake the interviewer's hand.

"Once you begin using your new [Bone Prosthesis] spell, you will need to learn how to control your mana in order to manipulate the movement of the prosthetic. If you master this control, your fine motor skills will be unmatched. I would love to see you specialize in creating small [Precision Tools]. These are the types of tools that no one thinks about but that everyone needs. It could also be a serious source of revenue." Job gave her a significant look.

"Can you give me an example?"

"Sure." Job leaned forward in his chair. "Take a needle, for instance. People will always need clothing, which requires [Tailors]. Who need lots of sewing needles. That's one of hundreds of examples."

"Thank you. I'm open to the idea, but let's hold that thought for a moment. You mentioned having two ideas?" Hana hoped she wasn't about to offend a god.

"Yes. The second idea is specializing in [Bone Tools] specifically. As a [Toolmaker], you can already craft some bone tools, but with your [Hag] specialization synergy, you'll have the ability to shape and sharpen the bones, increase durability, and even access types of bone that are unworkable to the common [Toolmaker]."

Hana's heart sank. She had pictured using stones and wood to craft her tools, not more of the disgusting bones. Her missing arm and gross class were constantly being pushed in her face.

"To be frank, Ms. Robinson, this specialization has a strong synergy with your class and shouldn't be passed on. In fact, it's so good, that only someone like Mr. Damascus would pass on it."

Hana nodded. She wasn't about to disagree with him, like Tom apparently had. However, the [Precision Tools] would also be useful.

"Is it possible to combine both specializations? Perhaps by focusing on creating precision bone tools?"

"Specializing on a specialization? Ms. Robinson, I must say you and your husband are two for two. I'm impressed by your creativity. I need a few moments to confer with my colleagues."

Hana glanced at the door, which was getting closer to the ground. If she stayed much longer, she would have to crawl out on her stomach.

"Of course," she smiled. "I appreciate your help."

Job's golden eyes flashed as he disappeared.

Hana looked around, shivering in the cold from the shrinking doorway. Her heart rate increased, and she fidgeted in her chair. Twice, she caught herself checking a right-handed watch that was no longer there.

Job reappeared in his chair..

"I have some exciting news! I spoke with Caretaker Craft and Caretaker Balance, and they love the idea. With time running out and no need for further discussion . . . " Job waved his hand.

[Specialization: Precision Bone Tools]

Overview:

Are you a Toolmaker with a keen eye for precision and a fascination with the mystical properties of bone? We are seeking a skilled individual to join our esteemed realm as a Master of Ossian Craftsmanship. If you possess the dexterity to manipulate bone, an understanding of mana, and a passion for creating exquisite custom tools, this is the extraordinary opportunity you've been waiting for!

Responsibilities:

· Craft small, custom tools with unparalleled precision, utilizing the inherent properties of bone.

· Manipulate bone through intricate Witchcraft to enhance its strength, resilience, and magical conductivity.

· Harness the power of mana to infuse tools with magical properties tailored to the unique needs of the wielder.

· Work with rare and exotic bones to create truly exceptional and sought-after instruments.

Perks:

· Gain self-buff effects when wielding tools made from bones you have personally crafted, enhancing your precision and stamina when crafting.

· Use a Bone Prosthesis from the same creature you're working with to potentially trigger permanent bonus enchantments on your tools.

· Potential access to vast amounts of rare and enchanted bones, which directly synergize with your class, and allow for powerful customization and enhanced crafting options.

Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.

"I like it," Hana said with a smile.

Job nodded in agreement. "I think it will be a great fit."

"Thank you. I'm looking forward to it." Hana checked the exit; she had only moments.

"Don't forget to pick up a blueprint on your way out."

Hana dashed to the blueprint table. There were options for a [Simple Bone Hatchet], a [Simple Bone Hammer], and a [Simple Bone Chisel].

We need more firewood.

Hana snatched the [Simple Bone Hatchet] blueprint and ran for the door. She threw herself into the mud and crawled through the shrinking gap, struggling to pull herself through with her missing arm.

Bo crouched and helped pull her out, just as the top of the doorframe brushed her feet.

"Are you okay?"

Hana nodded. She stood up and dusted off her knees.

The top of the [Profession Booth] sank into the earth with a final muddy plop, leaving an eerie silence around them.

Bo turned to the crowd. "Everyone who wants to help, start gathering logs and sticks. We need to build another Booth, even if it's just temporary."

Bo stooped and picked up a spare stick. He inspected it, and sighed. "I wish we had actual tools to work with. That baseball bat . . . " He paused at the smug smile on Hana's face.

"I chose [Toolmaker]." Her face lit up.

"My wife, the genius." Bo lifted his hand for a high-five.

"Ah, fuck. Sorry." He lowered his palm.

"I know. I'm not used to it either."

Always in my face.

People spread out to gather sticks and logs for the next Booth, while others continued sentry duty.

Hana wanted to get right to work on her first tool, but she needed the bone and materials.

"Do we know if that boar is still up on the hill?"

"I think that's where Tom's headed now," Bo said.

I hope it's still there.

Hana searched along the edge of the woods for a suitable stick. She fixed the blueprint firmly in her mind; sure enough, the sticks started to glow a faint red.

After searching through the undergrowth, she finally found a solid-looking stick that glowed green.

Hana moved onto the next item on her list: a short length of rope. She pulled the drawstring from the top of her backpack, which was a hassle because now the bag wouldn't fully close. It would not be a sustainable option for future tools.

We need someone with a rope-making profession.

She examined the drawstring, and visualized it in relation to the blueprint. It emitted a soft green glow in her hand.

While she waited for Tom to return, Hana studied the blueprint and the Hatchet's assembly instructions. The bone was the only missing piece she needed to complete her project.

Pretty simple so far.

Tom returned with Mike and Jill. The three of them were dragging the animal down the hill. Hana ran to meet them.

Mike took out a pocketknife and cut into the boar's flank. He sliced the meat into steaks and handed them off to Tom, who cut them into smaller meat cubes.

"Turns out, the boar is just like the loot drops," Tom explained as he carved. "Mike, Jill, and I were able to move the boar's corpse, but others couldn't."

"Some jerk tried to drag it away, but it wouldn't budge," Jill added.

"We borrowed a couple of pocketknives in exchange for food," said Tom. "I need to figure out how to make these Kabob things." Tom tossed the pieces of meat into a makeshift bowl-shape Jill had dug into the snow. "I need to feed as many people as I can with this thing."

"How does your profession work?" Hana asked Tom.

"According to my information window, if I can successfully prepare this recipe, the food will have a strength buff and a warming effect. The warming buff alone is great news, but also mana-infused food is more filling, so it helps stretch the limited boar meat." Tom held up a bloody hand. "Job was a major dick to me, by the way."

Hana chuckled. "He seemed pissed at you."

Tom recounted his 'interview' with Job as he worked through the meat.

Hana empathized, then told him about her own encounter and profession. Chloe joined them partway through their conversation.

"Once this is all cut up," said Tom, "I'll need a pile of sticks for the Kabobs, and some [Simple Maple Syrup]. The syrup I'll get super-hot, then pour it over the cooked Kabobs, and infuse them with mana. Seems easy enough. I'm stumped on where to get the syrup, though."

"It's probably as simple as strait from a maple tree. You know, it would make sense that the beginner stuff would all be easy to find," said Chloe. "The early drops, blueprints, and tools we've been given so far should make it possible to find those items. If we were to compare all this stuff to game logic, that is." She shrugged.

Hana thought for a moment. "So . . . we have the boar. A bone from the boar will get a Hatchet, and the Hatchet will allow us to cut down a maple tree, which will yield maple syrup?"

Chloe brightened. "Yeah. Exactly."

"Sounds like a plan," Hana said. "Are any of the bones ready yet, Mike?"

"Close."

As she waited, Hana watched Bo directing and assisting people in building another [Profession Booth]. This time, Bo took his time; he inspected and fixed any imperfections in the structure.

The Booth began its juddering descent into the ground the moment it was complete.

A Black man with a skeptical expression approached the Booth and stepped inside.

Moments later he emerged, wide-eyed. Bo patted him on the back, then turned to an older White woman, who was eyeballing the front of the shack.

Further up the hill, Kate was both babysitter and healer. Lots of the campsite's children were gathered around her, chatting in huddles, or playfully sparring with each other. Chloe, who had wandered away from Hana and Tom, sat alone at the edge of their circle.

Mike handed Hana a large grisly shoulder blade.

She grimaced as she held up the bone, touching as little of it as possible. It was still covered in chunks of sinew and bloody tendon.

She walked around the back side of a large tree and tossed it down into the snow. She kicked the snow onto it, and did her best to wipe it clean, but the bloody chunks were stubborn.

Irritated, Hana glanced around. There was no one nearby to judge her witchcraft. She cast [Debone]; the gore fell away, leaving a pristine white bone lying in the snow.

Hana studied her blueprint, and verified—using the green glow—that the bone met the necessary requirements. She began the process of crafting a Hatchet.

Working with just one hand was no easy feat; she struggled to hold everything in place while tying the string.

It took about thirty minutes of careful steps, and a whole lot of frustration, before Hana reached the final stage: infusing mana. Not entirely sure what to do, she thought 'infuse mana'; to her surprise, it worked. A tingly sensation rushed down her arm and into the Bone Hatchet in her grasp. It glowed yellow-green, before fading away into a simple but functional tool.

[Simple Bone Hatchet: +XS.04 skill bonus to non-combat chopping actions.]

A toggle option labeled [Bone Shaping] floated next to the item's description, but it had a red indicator stating [Bone Prosthesis Required]. Glowing indicators appeared in her vision, displaying the potential shapes that her Bone Hatchet could be molded into, including a much sharper and more angular version.

Hana examined the Hatchet. She didn't want to use her new ability, it freaked her out; she had not even checked its description. However, she also wanted to improve the tool as best she could.

She sighed, and brought up her list of abilities.

[Hag Abilities]

[Bone Prosthesis I]

Toggle ability.

The Bone Prosthesis spell unfolds as a dark ritual of twisted surgery. When the Hag has access to a fresh cadaver, she can conjure spectral nerves, ligaments, and tendons to merge with the bones of the corpse limb, creating a grotesque Prosthesis. The Hag can attach the Bone Prosthesis to any part of their body that is currently missing, gaining precise control over the skeletal limb. This twisted extension moves with unnatural agility, allowing the Hag to perform intricate tasks, or manipulate objects with a morbid grace. The Prosthesis is able to mitigate the backlash caused by casting malady-infused spells. The spectral bones act as a buffer, absorbing and redirecting a portion of the negative effects away from the Hag's primary form.

Ability Power: XS.01

Mana Usage: S0.1

10 Copper to upgrade; you cannot do that here.

Across the clearing, a toddler screamed inconsolably; great, piercing shrieks that Hana—as a mother—associated with hunger.

These people were hungry, and they needed food. No matter how she felt about the methods for procuring or preparing that food.

She returned to Mike, and asked if he would butcher the leg next. Hana needed a limb.

While she waited, Hana studied the details of [Bone Prosthesis]. It didn't seem to be permanent; she assured herself that she could drop the spell anytime she wanted.

Please let it fall off when I want it to.

By the time Mike had all the usable meat off the leg, Hana had watched a few people go through the second [Profession Booth].

The woods had remained quiet.

Several people came to inquire about when the boar meat would be ready.

"Why can't we just cook the meat?" a young White woman yelled. "You have a whole pile of it now, and we're all hungry!"

Tom raised his arms. "Listen, I know you're hungry. But if we just cook this meat without using the recipe I received from Caretaker Job, then it won't be magically infused and we won't get the buff. Magical food goes further in filling bellies. And we have a lot of bellies."

"Well, what do we need, then?" asked a squat older White man with a full gray beard.

"I need [Simple Maple Syrup]. We're working off the theory that we'll be able to harvest the syrup from a felled maple tree. I know they grow around here. Early food pass if you can go find a maple tree."

The man and woman grumbled, but headed toward the treeline with purpose.

"Oh, and be safe," Tom called to their retreating backs.

Hana dragged the boar leg behind the same hidden tree, and selected her [Debone] spell. The remaining pieces of hair and muscle slid off the leg, leaving only a glistening leg bone with an intact ankle joint and hoof. Delicate green ligaments held the limb together through Hana's magic.

Disgusting. But there's no way around it.

Hana wrinkled her nose as the dead limb twitched and spasmed. With a shudder, Hana pursed her lips and picked up the arm.

Grooosss.

She had to navigate through multiple pop-up windows, requesting her to assign a spell to interact with the bone. It was the same process as when she had held the Pygmy bone and transformed [Sickness] into [Malnutrition]. The [Sickness] spell would manifest as [Swine Flu] if she was holding a boar's bone.

Hana fought off her nausea and activated the [Bone Prosthesis] spell. Her stump was now wreathed in a glowing yellow-green aura. The same glow was mirrored at the end of the boar leg bone she held in her left hand. As she slowly brought them closer together, mana-based sinew reached from her stump to connect to the bone. The bone arm snapped into place, and a loud gasp escaped from Hana; she could feel her new arm, and her hoof. With both wonder and revulsion, she watched the magical tendons contract and flex, moving the boned hoof back and forth in response to her intentions; as if she was moving her own hand.

Tom, Mike, Jill, and several others appeared at the back of the tree.

"Are you all right?" asked Tom. "I heard a noise."

They stared at Hana's new pig-bone arm. Blushing, Hana untoggled the spell; the detached bone fell to the ground.

A small blond girl gasped, her hands covering her mouth. The child flinched when their eyes met.

Hana cleared her throat. "Excuse me." She picked up the bone arm and walked away.

Hana found a more private patch of woods close by, and scanned the area for potential threats. She stared at her stump, and at the pig bone in her hand, fighting the lump in her throat. She took a few deep breaths, and reattached the prosthetic.

With the Hatchet in-hand, she channeled her mana into [Bone Shaping]. She pushed the bone around with her hoof, and it softened like clay under her touch. She carefully hit and adjusted it with her Prosthesis, and it slowly took on the true form of a Hatchet.

The finished Hatchet now gave an XS.06 skill bonus.

She smiled to herself as she removed the prosthetic. She didn't want to leave it behind in case she needed it again, but she also did not want to wear it around people. She grudgingly stuffed it through her belt, and headed off to find Bo.

When Hana presented the Hatchet to him, his eyes widened.

"XS.06! Hell yes! Great job, babe." He kissed her.

Hana grinned.

"I have at least eight [Lumberjacks] now. Can you get me at least ten more of these right away?"

Hana's grin slid off her face.