Chapter 29: Superior
[Name: Night Cloak]
[Type: Accessories]
[Rarity: Superior]
[Attributes: Defense 5]
[Effects: Resist Cold
+2, Speed increase 10%, Sneak skill +1]
[Able to Bring Outside the Game: No]
[Remarks: Dark cloak made from Night Wolf fur, best for engaging in covert activities in the dark]
Even though it was just an accessory, the Night Cloak, being a Superior item, was a rare find in the early stages of the game. Obtaining such an item at this point was a stroke of luck that could greatly impact their survival in the challenging game world.
Alan carefully examined the cloak's attributes:
[Resist Cold +2, Speed increase 10%, Sneak skill +1].
The first buff could be found in common items, such as the winter jacket Alan was currently wearing, which was less rare but still valuable for survival. The second effect, the Speed increase, was comparable to another level of agility in terms of boost; hence it was nice to have. The last buff, however, was the one that made and defined this item of Superior rank.
[Sneak skill +1]
This provided a tremendous boost to Alan, who possessed the skill [Sneak (Basic) - (Novice)].
[Increases the chance to move undetected]
It might not sound like something grand for its rank, but it showed its actual usefulness when the related skill had been boosted to a higher level. Since the buff applied regardless of level, one could turn from an expert to a master just by equipping it.
Eager to experience the benefits of the Night Cloak, Alan draped it over his shoulders. Instantly, he felt a surge of warmth as the cloak combined with his jacket to neutralize the chilling effects of the environment.
Taking a moment to assess their condition, Alan's gaze fell upon Daniel and Milo, who were still recovering from their wounds, while Viky was still a little trembling with the gun on her arm.
Alan recognized that it would be best for all of them to return to the safety of the Library before embarking on their next quest.
As they entered the Library, the sight of two wolf corpses near the main door caught Alan by surprise. Standing proudly beside them was Luis, his voice trembling with a mix of excitement and anxiety as he proclaimed his victory.
"Haha, Alan, did you see that? It's me... I killed those wolves," Luis exclaimed, his hands tightly gripping the steel pipe.
Alan realized the lingering scent of blood was the one that made the wolf enter the library. Although his action had endangered the group, Alan chose not to dwell on it, relieved that there were no casualties among the players or civilians. With the Alpha Wolf defeated, he felt confident that the immediate vicinity was now safe from further wolf attacks.
Turning his attention to Milo, whose injuries were more severe, Alan began to administer the [Medicated Bandage]. Milo expressed his gratitude as they waited for the bandage to take effect.
"Thank you, Alan," Milo said, appreciating the support.
While Milo recovered, Alan took the opportunity to review their individual progress from the battle. The rewards for their efforts were substantial, with Alan's kill count of 26 wolves earning him an abundance of XP and Survival Points. Milo had taken down 21 wolves, and Daniel had contributed 12 kills. Alan's strategic use of the fire had played a significant role in their success.
Alan's stats reflected his progress and growth:
[Alan D Angello, Male, 27 years]
[Level 6: 3860/4000]
[HP: 76/150]
[Stamina: 78%]
[Survival Points: 1810]
[Strength: E-]
[Agility: E]
[Endurance: E]
[Perception: E]
[Intelligence: D]
[Spirit: F-]
[One attribute point to distribute]
[E rank reward x2]
Milo's stats showed his resilience and determination:
[Milo Tagliano, Male, 32 years]
[Level 5: 2320/3000]
[HP: 52/170]
[Stamina: 55%]
[Survival Points: 1420]
[Strength: D-]
[Agility: E]
[Endurance: D-]
[Perception: E]
[Intelligence: F]
[Spirit: F-]
[One attribute point to distribute]
[F rank reward x2] [E rank reward x1]
Daniel's progress was also evident:
[Daniel Judge, Male, 17 years]
[Level 4: 1800/2000]
[HP: 140/140]
[Stamina: 100%]
[Survival Points: 1230]
[Strength: E-]
[Agility: E+]
[Endurance: E]
[Perception: E]
[Intelligence: F+]
[Spirit: F-]
[One attribute point to distribute]
[F rank reward x2] [E rank reward x1]
With additional attribute points to distribute, Alan prompted a discussion on how best to allocate them.
"You should decide which is best for you," Alan said
"Mister D, You know a great deal about this, decide for me," said Daniel.
Alan suggested allocating them all to endurance. This decision would be crucial for withstanding the increasingly harsh weather conditions and would bolster their overall survivability by increasing their HP.
Following Alan's recommendation, they all agreed to invest their attribute points into endurance:
[Milo Tagliano]
[Endurance: D- +1> D]
[Daniel Judge]
[Endurance: E +1 > E+]
As for Alan, he planned to keep his extra attributes for now.
With their attributes updated, Alan checked the remaining game time: 1 hour and 16 minutes. The urgency of their situation became apparent. They needed to set off immediately to ensure they didn't miss out on the time-limited bonus quest.
Vicky approached them with determination in her eyes, eager to join their upcoming quest.
"You received a hidden quest? Can we come this time?" she asked.
Luis chimed in, expressing his willingness to help as well. Alan glanced at the determined pair, noticing their increased confidence, likely stemming from their success in defeating the wolves. However, he remained firm in his decision and rejected their request once again.
Alan complimented their courage, and also the fact that Vicky did help them before, but he was concerned enough to bring Daniel and Milo with him. The next quest will be very much harder and the two would only pose an added risk to his plan.
Understanding the gravity of the situation, Vicky let out a deep sigh, realizing that Alan was determined in his decision. Their decision to stay brought happiness to Bill who was a little worried that he would be left behind.
With their roles defined and the group formed, Alan, Milo, and Daniel hastily left the Library, prepared for the challenges that awaited them.