Chapter 4: Gearing Up
The muffled sound of chirping began to permeate Deo's unconsciousness. At first, it was a faint murmur, a distant backdrop to the void that engulfed him. But as moments ticked by, the chirping grew louder, more insistent, drilling through the haze and steadily pulling him toward wakefulness.
His eyelids felt like they were weighed down with iron, and he had to summon considerable willpower just to crack them open. The blinding brightness of the world outside momentarily startled him, causing him to close his eyes again, but the chirping persisted.
Groaning, Deo tried to move but found that every muscle in his body protested. The exhaustion from his confrontation with the Obsidian Prowler had taken its toll, and the aftermath of the mana drain weighed heavily on him, like he'd run a marathon without training. As his senses started to return, he realised that the incessant chirping wasn’t from some bird or creature of this strange land, but from the system interface, signalling unread notifications.
Gathering his strength, Deo pushed himself to sit up, his surroundings coming into view. The aftermath of the battle painted a grim scene. Patches of the forest floor were scorched by the corrosive acid, plants reduced to nothing but shrivelled, blackened husks. Not too far from him lay the remains of the Obsidian Prowler, its once sleek and menacing form now marred and distorted by the potent acid.
As he adjusted, he glanced down at himself, and a twinge of dismay coursed through him. The gold and white uniform he wore, a mark of his profession aboard the cruise, was now in shambles. The acid from the Fluoroantimonic Berries had wreaked havoc on it, leaving large patches eroded and eaten away. Its once pristine sheen was marred with holes and frayed ends, the gold embroidery dulled and tarnished.
Sighing at the sorry state of his uniform, Deo decided to check his status. The chirping had been trying to notify him of something, after all. Blinking to clear his vision, he accessed the interface.
[Hidden Quest Activated: Champion of the Wilds]
Quest: Champion of the Wilds
In the desolate wilds, life clings to existence, struggling to flourish amidst oppressive forces that hinder its expansion. As a guardian of growth, confront and neutralise these challenges to revitalise this troubled dominion.
Progress:
1. Defeat the Obsidian Prowler: Completed
2. ???
3. ???
4. ???
5. ???
Rewards: Variable rewards depending upon contribution
[Quest Completed: Reach Level 5 as a Green Mage. Complete in Status Page to receive reward]
[Status Page]
Name: Deo Mitchell
Race: Human (Outworlder)
Class: Green Mage (Uncommon)
Level: 5
Experience: 2650/2750
Titles: Whisked by Fate's Winds, Cosmic Newcomer (Temporary), Ironbark’s Kin, Giant Slayer
Stats:
* Agility: 15
* Endurance: 21
* Intelligence: 26
* Strength: 14
* Vitality: 25
* Wisdom: 28
* HP: 92/105 (+1.15hp per hour)
* Mana: 47/130 (+1.18mp per minute)
Skills:
Botanical Knowledge (Level 8), Flora Communication (Level 3), Verdant Growth (Level 2), Nature’s Essence (Level 2), Ironbark Armour (Level 3)
Quests:
* Flora Explorer
* Examine and catalogue 20 different plant species using your Botanical Knowledge skill.
* Progress: 5/20
* Reach Level 5: Completed
* Reach Level 5 as a Green Mage to get your starting gear.
* Progress: 5/5
* Would you like to complete this quest and receive your reward? [Y/N]
* Survive the Wilderness
* Survive in the unfamiliar environment. Build or find shelter, source water, and food.
* Progress: Ongoing.
* Champion of the Wilds
* In the desolate wilds, life clings to existence, struggling to flourish amidst oppressive forces that hinder its expansion. As a guardian of growth, confront and neutralise these challenges to revitalise this troubled dominion.
* Progress: Ongoing.
Deo closed the status screen, the weight of the new quest, Champion of the Wilds, pressing on his mind. He found it curious, if not a bit unnerving, that this particular quest offered so little in terms of specifics. Where most quests provided clear objectives and outcomes, this one was wrapped in mystery. Challenges unknown, outcomes uncertain, and the only promise being that of variable rewards based on contribution. What did that even mean? Would he be judged on effort, results, or perhaps a combination of both?
His thoughtful gaze then shifted to his mana. At 47 out of 130 and regenerating at a rate of 1.18mp per minute, he quickly deduced that he had been unconscious for around about 40 minutes. "Lucky no other threats came by while I was out," he thought, appreciating his fortunate break. In this unpredictable realm, even a small window of vulnerability could have grave consequences.
A glance at his experience bar showed how close he was to reaching level 6. The quick ascent was heartening. Looking back at his initial stats when he had been thrust into this world and comparing them to now, it was undeniable that he had grown, not just in numbers but also in character. Every level gained, every stat increased, and every skill learned meant he was one step closer to mastering his new identity as a Green Mage.
Moving onto his completed quest, Deo gently pressed on the "[Y]" option next to Reach Level 5. As soon as he did, the system interface shimmered for a moment, a brief pulsation of energy emanating from it.
Suddenly, right before his eyes, an ornate chest made of deep mahogany materialised. It had intricate carvings of leaves and vines, wrapping around the corners and meeting at the centre, where a polished emerald embedded as the latch gleamed invitingly. The very sight of it felt rewarding, and it added an aura of wonder to this already mysterious realm.
Hesitating for just a moment to admire the craftsmanship, Deo then reached out, his fingers brushing over the smooth surface of the emerald latch. He gently lifted it, and the chest opened with a soft creak, revealing its contents. Inside the ornate chest, folded with an almost reverent care, lay a set of brown and green robes. The fabric, at first glance, seemed simple, but a closer look revealed its extraordinary nature. The weave was so fine, it resembled the patterns seen in the cross-section of a tree, concentric circles flowing in harmony. The robes shimmered under the light, casting soft glows, reminiscent of sunlight filtering through a dense canopy of trees. Most striking was the green leaf emblem embroidered on its chest; it was meticulously crafted with threads that seemed to capture every hue of green. From the rich dark green of pine to the vibrant bright green of new sprouts, it depicted the essence of life in its many shades.
The robes came with a hood that had intricate patterns of intertwining vines and leaves. Every inch of it spoke of nature’s embrace. Deo could almost feel the energy of the forest as he ran his fingers over it.
Awe-struck, Deo couldn't help but exclaim, "That's more like it!"
Beside the robes, nestled securely within the chest, lay a staff. This was no ordinary piece of wood. The staff was made from a deep, rich brown wood that seemed to hold the very mysteries of the earth within its grains. It was roughly as tall as Deo, with a natural, organic curve. The upper part of the staff swelled and twisted to form an intricate gnarled pattern, reminiscent of ancient trees that had stood the test of time. The staff's pinnacle held a surprise: a brilliant green gem, clear and radiant, embedded within the wood, capturing the light and refracting it into an entrancing dance of emerald sparkles, like sunlight filtering through dew-kissed leaves. It looked as though the heart of the forest had been condensed into this singular, magnificent jewel.
The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.
Tentatively, Deo reached out, his fingers making contact with the staff. An almost electric pulse vibrated under his touch. The staff responded to him, its energy intertwining with his own, as if recognising him as its rightful bearer.
Not wasting another moment, he activated his Identify skill on the robes and the staff.
[Unique Growth Item: Verdant Robes]
Crafted from the heartstrings of the ancient forests, these robes are infused with the energy of life itself and are the unique garb of Green Mages. Offers protection, amplifies the wearer's connection to nature, and resonates with the growth essence of inherent to their class. This item grows in power alongside the user.
[Unique Growth Item: Yggdrasil’s Branch]
A staff born from a branch of the mythic World Tree. It holds a deep connection to all flora and brims with ancient power. Serving as a conduit, it greatly enhances the wielder's abilities and channels the boundless energy of nature. This item grows in power alongside the user.
Deo's eyes widened as he read the descriptions, a surge of awe washing over him. "These are... incredible," he murmured, carefully tracing the descriptions with his finger. The potential power these items promised was far beyond anything he had imagined receiving as a mere Level 5 reward.
"Do all Green Mages receive gear of this calibre?" he wondered aloud. The thought that such items might be common for members of his class seemed almost ludicrous. The intricate detail, the latent power he felt emanating from them, and the promise of growth all seemed too generous. But then again, he was in a world filled with magic and wonder, so perhaps his perspective on 'common' needed some recalibration.
Shaking off the lingering awe, a hint of excitement bubbled up. "I can't wait to try these on," he declared with an eager grin. His gaze then shifted downward, taking in the sad, acid-eaten remains of his once-pristine gold and white uniform. A sigh escaped him. "It's a good thing too, given the state of this." The material, which once felt crisp and professional under his fingers, was now a sullied mess. A pang of nostalgia hit him; after all, that uniform was a symbol of his previous life and the world he once knew.
Yet, juxtaposed against the new robes he now held; the contrast was stark. The Verdant Robes, with their intricate designs and rich colours, exuded an aura of power and deep connection to the natural world. The gold and white uniform seemed plain and lifeless in comparison; its significance diminished in the face of the majestic attire that Deo was about to don.
With careful motions, Deo began to divest himself of the tattered remnants of his uniform. The once-golden fabric, now marred with acid burns and frays, slid to the ground with a soft rustle, leaving him momentarily vulnerable to the world.
Taking a deep breath, he reached out for the Verdant Robes. As his fingers brushed against the fabric, a warmth spread across his hand—a gentle embrace, reminiscent of a midsummer's breeze rustling through leaves. It felt alive, reactive, and welcoming.
Slipping into the robes, the fabric adjusted to his form seamlessly, as if they were tailor-made for him. The material was soft against his skin, yet he could feel a resilience to it, a protective quality. The hood settled on his shoulders, ready to be drawn over his head should he need it, while the intricate vine patterns shimmered lightly, almost as if they moved with a life of their own.
With the robes now settled, he turned his attention to the Yggdrasil’s Branch. It lay with a regal presence, waiting patiently for its new master. As he gripped the staff, a profound connection surged through him, binding him to the ancient essence of the world around. The wood felt both ancient and new under his touch, solid yet teeming with life.
Hefting it, he marvelled at its perfect balance. It was as though the staff was an extension of himself, resonating with his very being. The runes carved into its surface pulsed gently, their glow rhythmic, like the heartbeat of the world. Feeling truly like a Green Mage for the first time, Deo took a moment to bask in the sensation.
While enjoying the sensation of his newfound gear, a sudden pang of thirst clawed at Deo's throat, pulling him back to the present. The world around him, with all its challenges and uncertainties, came into sharp focus. His mouth felt like parched earth, and he realised just how dehydrated he had become. The aftermath of the battle, combined with the time he had been unconscious, had taken a toll on his body. Finding water was no longer just a priority—it was a necessity.
Drawing on his newly strengthened connection to nature, Deo decided to put the Yggdrasil’s Branch to the test. Planting the staff firmly into the ground, he closed his eyes and concentrated. Channelling his mana through the staff, he sought to amplify his ‘Flora Communication’ skill.
A wave of energy pulsed outwards, intertwining with the very essence of the plants and vegetation in his vicinity. In response, a myriad of sensations flooded into him. He felt the slow stretch of trees reaching for the sun, the delicate sway of grass in the breeze, and the restless growth of smaller plants underfoot. Among these sensations, he searched for a pull or guide towards water.
And he found it. A chorus of plants, in a unified voice, gently nudged his consciousness towards the west. They sang of a place where their roots could drink deeply, where life thrived. Grateful for their guidance, Deo whispered his thanks, lifted his staff from the ground and began to trek westward.
As he moved forward, Deo noticed various plants, many of which he had never encountered before. Each one was a potential entry for his Flora Explorer quest, so he took the opportunity to use his Botanical Knowledge skill in tandem with his staff to get a deeper understanding.
First, there was a sprawling vine with sapphire blossoms that seemed to glow faintly. Deo reached out with his senses and catalogued the plant with his skill.
[Uncommon: Starlit Creeper - A vine renowned for its luminescent flowers, which are said to contain a fragment of the night sky within them. Often used in low-light cultivation due to its natural glow.]
Further ahead, he came across a bush with fiery red leaves, which radiated warmth even from a distance.
[Uncommon: Blazeleaf Shrub – A shrub often found in cooler temperatures Its leaves are naturally warm and are often used as an ingredient in potions to stave off the cold.]
Near a small rocky outcrop, surrounded by ordinary looking roots, he identified a fern with silver-tinted fronds that shimmered when moved by the breeze.
[Uncommon: Moonlit Fern - A mystical fern that absorbs and reflects moonlight. Has no known use.]
[Common: Tempestroot - A plant that looks like a regular root from the surface, but when pulled, it extends deep into the ground.]
Among the myriad of exotic plants, Deo recognised some that were familiar. He spotted a cluster of Maidenhair Ferns, their delicate fronds swaying gently in the breeze. Nearby, a stand of Royal Ferns stretched skyward, with their lacey leaflets capturing the dappled sunlight. Interspersed between the ferns, he could also make out the familiar white bark of a Silver Birch tree and the tall, straight trunks of several Whispering Pines.
Smiling to himself, he thought, "Some things remain constant, even in this new world." Fortunately, even these common species counted toward his Flora Explorer quest. As he continued his trek, he mentally catalogued each plant, making significant progress on his quest.
As Deo ventured westward, the landscape underwent a subtle transformation. The dense foliage began to thin out, making way for vast stretches of wild grasslands, intermittently interrupted by clusters of knotty trees. The horizon seemed to stretch endlessly, offering glimpses of the world's vastness and beauty.
The sun, high in the sky, cast its golden hue over the land, making the grass shimmer like a sea of gold. Birds flitted overhead, their songs echoing through the air, blending harmoniously with the rustle of leaves and the distant hum of insects. The world seemed alive, pulsating with energy, and Deo felt inextricably linked to its rhythm.
However, as he moved further, the terrain began to change more drastically. The land started sloping downward, gradually leading him into a valley. The descent was gentle, but noticeable. The trees grew taller and more spread out, their canopies casting dappled shadows on the valley floor. Small brooks crisscrossed the terrain, their babbling sounds a tempting call.
But despite his mounting thirst, Deo resisted the urge to drink from these small brooks. Drawn on by the promise of a larger, more substantial water source deeper within the valley, he continued his descent. Beneath the breathtaking sights and sounds, the weight of his journey pressed on. Each step, though filled with wonder, was also a stark reminder of his thirst. His lips felt parched, and a subtle weariness began to creep into his limbs. The deeper promise of the valley's refreshing streams spurred him forward, even as his energy waned.
The valley continued to open up as Deo made his descent, revealing a breathtaking sight. A gentle river, its waters crystal-clear and gleaming in the sunlight, snaked its way through the valley's heart, cutting a path through the lush greenery. The river's flow was serene, with occasional pockets of bubbling rapids where rocks jutted out, causing playful splashes and shimmering spray. Birds danced above the water, their reflections mirrored perfectly in the tranquil stretches of the river.
Following the river's path with his eyes, Deo noted how it expanded into a magnificent lake, nestled at the base of a series of rolling hills. The lake was vast, its waters still, reflecting the bright blue sky above and the white clouds drifting lazily. The edges of the lake were fringed with tall reeds and flowering plants, their colours vibrant against the backdrop of the deep blue water. Tiny fish darted just below the surface, their scales glinting, creating a flurry of movement.
The beauty of the scene was enough to take Deo's breath away. The promise of the water's rejuvenating touch beckoned him closer, the pull almost magnetic. Just as he was about to rush forward, quenching his thirst and basking in the refreshing embrace of the river and lake, a sound stopped him in his tracks.
From somewhere nearby, a piteous whimper echoed, soft and heart-rending. The cry of distress seemed out of place in such a peaceful setting, and it instantly seized Deo's attention. He turned, trying to pinpoint the source, concern evident in his eyes.