The System Mecha is so unscientific

CHAPTER 5 The Discovery of the Tear

The abandoned factory was an alchemical treasure trove, a husk filled with remnants of the past holding whispers of potential. With pockets weighed down by low-grade iron and the Firestone glowing defiantly in his hand, Da West emerged back into the encroaching night. The streets of GreenLand City were eerily quiet, as if the world were holding its breath in anticipation of what was to come.

He could see the remnants of various shops and residences as he left the factory. Dim light flickered from the windows of nearby establishments while shadows danced along cracked sidewalks. Despite the allure of the items he had collected, something tugged at him, urging him to explore further. The fire of curiosity roared within, and as if answering his silent plea, the GUNDAM System chimed in.

"Energy reading detected. Nearby black iron level tear (Energy Reading: Low Fire Plane) identified," it announced, the seriousness of its tone throbbing within him.

Da stood still, the fatigue momentarily forgotten. "A tear? Here?" Tears were gateways throughout the multiverse—mystical rifts that Awakeners traversed, seeking resources, treasures, and knowledge. Each tear possessed varying levels of energy and danger, yet the thought of an opportunity—especially one tied to a Low Fire Plane—tugged at his adventurous spirit.

But wisdom calmed his excited thoughts. "Wait...," he murmured, glancing around as he weighed the risk. "I can't explore this just yet. I still need to gather the materials for the Fire Boy." He shook his head, reminding himself of his current objectives.

"Should I report this to the Awakener Association or confide in Mia?" He ran through his options. Reporting to the association would lead to rewards and possibly resources, but it also risked drawing attention—not just to the tear but to him and the potential they could exploit. In contrast, if Mia's influential family got involved, what could they unveil from the tear's depths? But sharing this secret would also mean relinquishing control.

"Or, I could keep it a secret," he thought, grounding himself. "Wait until I'm strong enough to explore it myself."

With a frustrated sigh, he decided it was best to keep this information close for now. Da walked away from the lurking shadows of the tear, feeling the weight of his decision settle upon him like a cloak. He had enough on his plate without diving into the chaotic uncertainties of interdimensional exploration.

As Da made his way through the outskirts of the city, he decided he would head towards the forest nearby—an area rumored to have abundant resources. Amongst the trees, he hoped to gather the wood he needed for the Fire Boy.

The forest welcomed him with tranquil whispers, the sound of rustling leaves and distant nocturnal calls echoing around him. It offered a stark contrast to the chaos of the city, grounding him in purpose as he navigated the underbrush.

"Thank you, young man. You'll find good fortune for your kindness, I'm sure," he said.

Da grinned at him. "I hope you find some good berries too, Gara."

"Berries, yes. But let me offer you advice in return," the old man said, leaning closer. "There's an old junkyard not far from here, one that's home to many forgotten treasures. You might find what you seek, young Da. Those old parts are waiting there for someone to bring them to life."

"A junkyard?" Da's interest was piqued. "Do you think it really holds what I need?"

"Haunted by dreams and remnants! It could very well hold iron—maybe even wood too. A chance in the wild for a boy with spirit!" Gara grinned, revealing gaps in his aged teeth.

"Thank you, Gara," Da said, feeling invigorated by the information. "I'll check it out. You take care of yourself, alright?"

"Always, lad!" The old man chuckled. "May the winds favor your journey."

Da nodded and set off again, determination blossoming anew. The old junkyard awaited, and with it could come the resources he needed to forge his first mecha warrior.

As the trees faded behind him, he felt a flutter of excitement at the prospect of adventure, not merely for the Fire Boy, but as a way to pave his future, one small step at a time. Shadows of tearing energies lingered in the back of his mind, but they faded under the resolute light burning deep within him—the fire of ambition, resilience, and fortitude pushing him ever forward, closer to his dream.