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Chapter 13: Into the Darkness: "The First Hunt"

David stood in the center of his makeshift chamber, now equipped with the Night Vision skill. His pulse quickened with anticipation as he adjusted to the newfound ability, the darkness of the forest beyond the mansion’s walls holding no more secrets from him. He took a deep breath and stepped outside, his mind racing with strategy. He was no longer merely surviving; his goal was shifting toward conquest and dominance.

The forest greeted him with an eerie silence, the dense canopy casting shadows that seemed almost alive. David moved cautiously, the night vision enhancing his ability to navigate through the obscured terrain. His footsteps were deliberate, each movement calculated to avoid making any noise that could alert the creatures lurking in the dark.

After a short walk, he caught sight of a Shadow Goat, its dark form blending seamlessly with the forest's shadows. The goat’s silhouette was a dark blur against the background of night, and David’s heartbeat quickened. He crouched low, trying to keep the element of surprise, but the goat seemed to sense his presence. With a sudden burst of speed, it charged toward him.

David's heart raced as he scrambled to adjust. The forest floor was uneven and littered with debris, making every step treacherous. He sidestepped quickly, but the shifting ground beneath him caused him to stumble. His old shirt, already worn thin from previous battles, tore in multiple places as he ducked and weaved. The Shadow Goat's horns narrowly missed him, but the sheer force of its charge sent David reeling, barely managing to avoid a direct hit.

He fought awkwardly in the dense underbrush, the tight space restricting his movements. The Shadow Goat was agile and aggressive, its attacks coming in rapid succession. David's attempts to counter were hampered by the environment, each swing of his sword impeded by the thick foliage and tangled roots. He realized that even with Night Vision, the dense forest presented a new set of challenges. His shirt was now in tatters, clinging to his body in shreds. He was dirty and disheveled, but his focus remained unshaken.

Seeing that he was having trouble, David made a quick decision. He grabbed the Shadow Goat by its horns, using his strength to drag it back toward the mansion. His determination was unwavering as he navigated the difficult terrain, each step a battle against the rough ground and the ever-encroaching darkness.

Inside the mansion, David began the grim task of skinning the goat. He worked efficiently, his hands moving with practiced ease despite the exhaustion. He made sure to preserve every piece of the goat’s body, knowing that each part had potential value.

Using the Synthesize function of the system, David transformed the goat’s leather into a cloak. The process cost him 10 points, leaving him with only 10 points remaining. The synthesis created a cloak that would not only provide protection but also blend well with the environment, giving him an edge in future stealth missions. The remaining materials from the goat were sold, netting him another 10 points, effectively canceling out his expenditure and raising his points to 20 points.

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Cloak Description:

A dark, mid-calf cloak made from Shadow Goat hide, designed for stealth. Features an adjustable hood and durable, smooth texture.

Origin:

Crafted from a high-ranked Shadow Goat, retaining its dark energy.

Suitability:

Perfect for blending into shadows and navigating dark environments.

Advantages:

* Enhanced Stealth: Camouflages effectively in low light.

* Durable: Resistant to wear and tear.

* Light Protection: Offers basic defense against minor physical damage.

Flaws:

* Limited Armor: Minimal protection against powerful attacks.

As he prepared a modest dinner with some of the goat’s meat, David took a moment to reflect on his progress. The meal was simple but nourishing, and he felt a small surge of satisfaction as he ate. Afterward, he retreated to the room he had converted into a resting area. The day’s events had been taxing, and he needed rest to regain his strength.

The next morning, David ventured out again, his new cloak draped over his shoulders. He was more determined than ever to increase his points and achieve his goal of 500. The cloak provided an added layer of protection and improved his ability to blend into the forest surroundings.

He crept through the forest with renewed stealth, his heart pounding as he searched for his next target. His efforts paid off when he spotted a lone Shadow Goat grazing unaware. David’s approach was slow and deliberate, every step calculated to minimize noise. He was nervous, his hands trembling slightly as he drew nearer. The goat’s back was turned, and David seized the opportunity. He moved silently, his cloak blending with the shadows, and struck with precision. The Shadow Goat fell without a sound, and David felt a rush of joy and relief. The kill had gone smoothly, a testament to his growing skill and adaptation to the environment.

After selling the goat’s corpse to the system, David pressed on. His search led him to a Shadow Ravager, its presence marked by scattered bones near its resting spot. The beast had clearly just finished feeding, and its vigilance was reduced. David moved around it cautiously, positioning himself for a strategic attack.

He inched closer, every sense alert. The Shadow Ravager’s ears twitched, and as it began to rise, David acted quickly. He struck at its hind legs, causing the creature to thump heavily back to the ground. The impact of its fall echoed through the forest, but David wasted no time. He attacked its sides, avoiding its snapping jaws. With precise and relentless strikes, he managed to kill the Shadow Ravager, his movements a blend of practiced efficiency and adrenaline-fueled focus.

David stood over the defeated beast, his chest heaving with exertion. The battle had been hard-fought, but the rewards were worth the effort. As he collected the materials from the Shadow Ravager and prepared to head back, he reflected on how far he had come. His goal of amassing 500 points felt within reach, and the forest, once a daunting challenge, was slowly becoming a place where he could thrive.

With a renewed sense of purpose, David made his way back to the mansion, ready to continue his journey toward power.