The System Mecha is so unscientific

As the sun began to set, casting an orange hue over the landscape of GreenLand City, Da West stood at the edge of the forest, his heart pounding with anticipation. The old junkyard, a long-abandoned training ground for the first generation of Awakeners, held promises of resources and hidden treasures, but it also bore the scars of its forgotten history—leftover dangers lurking in shadows and rusting monstrosities that could still wreak havoc.

After saying his goodbyes to Gara and walking a bit further into the forest, Da allowed himself a moment to reflect on his discoveries. He had gathered enough iron and wood to create the Fire Boy, but he felt compelled to gather even more resources to ensure he could tackle any challenges he might face. He pulled out the Firestone from his pocket, its warmth radiating against his palm, and vowed to make the most of this opportunity.

"System, can you provide specifics on the junkyard's layout and notable dangers?" he asked, holding the small glowing stone tightly.

"Analyzing the old junkyard," the system reported. "It was once a training facility utilized by the Awakeners Association for lower-level cultivators. Remnants of training robots, traps, mutated creatures, and the Demon Slime abound within. Estimated risk level: Low."

"Low? That doesn't sound too comforting," Da murmured, recalling the stories Gara had shared about the dangers of the junkyard. "What should I be particularly wary of?"

"Common hazards include rogue training robots still operational due to lingering energy signatures, traps set by former practitioners for training purposes, mutated rats and felines that exhibit aggressive behaviors, and the Demon Slime—a creature that feeds on magical energy and can immobilize its prey."

"That sounds delightful," Da said, rolling his eyes. "Any strategies on how to deal with these threats? I can't afford to get stuck in a trap or overwhelmed by any creatures."

"Using stealth and evasion is advisable. Stay low, use environmental cover, and prioritize gathering high-value materials swiftly. Engaging in combat should be avoided unless absolutely necessary," the system instructed.

"Got it. Stealth it is." Da took a deep breath, nerves melding with excitement. He began mentally preparing for the expedition, thinking about what supplies he needed to bring.

Timestamped in his mind were the items and instants he had gathered throughout his day. Each of the elements hinted at a mission that was no longer just about survival but about discovery. He set off toward the nearby town to procure some essential supplies from merchants and ensure he was ready for anything.

***

Strolling through the sparse streets of GreenLand City, Da made his way to the marketplace, where vendors shouted out offers for goods ranging from survival tools to potions. He spotted a stall overflowing with discarded equipment, rusted gadgets, and faded trinkets.

"Clara," he greeted the shopkeeper, a kind woman with a discerning eye. "Can I get some supplies for my trip to the old junkyard?"

"Ah, Da! Off to brave the wilds, are we? and for what if i may ask young west?" Clara smirked, sorting through her items as she addressed him, her voice friendly yet firm. "Well forget i ask you younglings always have your reasons. You'll need a few essentials if you're heading to that forsaken place. Here, take a look."

Da considered each item—rope for climbing, a sturdy lantern for visibility in the dim light of the junkyard, and a small first-aid kit to patch up any scrapes. Bringing along two energy packs that could recharge his system was a wise choice, too; they would keep him on his toes should he encounter one of the rogue training robots.

"Everything looks solid," Da said, inspecting a collapsible grappling hook, which might be handy for scaling precarious piles or evading depths of stress. "How much for the lot?"@@novelbin@@

Clara raised an eyebrow and broke into a knowing smile. "For a promising young lad like you? Let's say 400 Blue Star Credits, and I'll toss in a couple of smoke bombs. These will help you escape sticky situations."

"Deal!" Da exclaimed, relieved at her generosity. He handed over the credits, grateful for the support of those in his community.

With his supplies gathered, he took a moment to sit at a bench overlooking the main street, the flickering lanterns creating an aura of warmth that contrasted the chilling air of the coming night.

"System, status check," he commanded softly amid the background murmur of townsfolk.

"Current inventory:

- Iron x13

- Wooden planks x8

- Firestone (Black Iron Level)

- Smoke bombs x2

- Grappling hook

- Lantern

- First-aid kit

- Energy packs x2

Total items prepared for the junkyard expedition: Sufficient."

Da smiled, feeling that familiar thrill of purpose. With determination swelling in his chest, he knew that he was ready. But as the tingling edge of anticipation coursed through his veins, another thought hit him.

"Should I inform the Awakeners Association about the Tear I discovered?" Da pondered aloud. "Or would it be wiser to keep it secret and explore it once I'm stronger?"

The association was filled with knowledgeable and powerful individuals who could help him navigate the risks of the Tear, but he hesitated at the thought of revealing the precious secret so soon. He had heard tales of young leaders receiving rewards for discoveries, only to find themselves under the watchful eye of those who would exploit their talents.

"Maintaining discretion could offer a tactical advantage," the system suggested. "Gather your resources and build your strength before delving into deeper secrets."

Da nodded in agreement, acknowledging that preparation—both physical and emotional—was critical to his journey. In the mystery of the Tear lay adventure, but also danger. Strengthening himself first would only serve him better long term, so he resolved to keep the discovery hidden for now.

***

As the sun sank beneath the horizon, Da prepared for the trek ahead. He stepped away from the warm glow of the marketplace, the calls of merchants fading as he turned toward the dense woods once again.

With the sight of the old junkyard gnawing at his mind like a magnet, he embraced the challenges that awaited. Each danger would lend to his growth, a step toward creating the Fire Boy and forging a future worth fighting for.

The night enveloped the world, as shadows danced in the moonlight. And armed with hope, fledgling skill, and a growing sense of adventure, Da West set his sights on the fabled junkyard, ready to carve his own path amidst the remnants of the past.