Chapter 58: Path of Sage

The secret Alan had learned about came from his old team; an Indian player who played a role in the sixth year of the apocalypse game. However, this quest came with specific prerequisites. One had to possess the [Scholar] job class, awaken their magic, and then high enough intelligence to engage a genuine interest in old books to a temple librarian in Port Town.

Alan saw this as a rare opportunity and made sure to meet these conditions, securing the quest for his plan. As a result, the old monk handed him an ancient book.

[You received a book - Beginners Guide to Enlightenment]

The title of the book, invoked a slight cringe in Alan, though he managed to conceal his reaction from the monk. After taking the book, a message promptly appeared in his Gamelink.

[You received a hidden quest - The Sage Path to Enlightenment]

[Have you heard the story of the hero Sage of the Sixth Path? He was a hero that saved the world from the apocalypse. It was said that man likes to read a book more than learn magic, read more of his favorite book to activate the quest]

Confusion swelled within Alan; he had anticipated a quest that would lead him down a profound path of enlightenment. Instead, he found himself embroiled in a tale of fiction. Despite this, he mustered a grateful smile and extended his appreciation to the old monk for the bestowed gift.

Just before his departure, the monk added a parting note, "Should you have inquiries, my brother resides in the next town."

Alan's smile widened at this additional piece of information. It dawned on him that not only was this a hidden quest, but it also formed part of a chain quest just like the information he heard about the Indian player.

With a newfound sense of purpose, Alan made his way to the housing complex nestled within Port Town. His destination was a low-rise Renaissance-style apartment building. Alan step into the lobby where he was greeted by a welcoming stand-in NPC.

"Welcome, Player, to our humble abode," the NPC's voice chimed with a rehearsed cheerfulness, a digital echo of genuine hospitality.

Alan wasted no time in pleasantries. His focus was singular, driven by the newly achieved quest. "I need a room, please."

The NPC inclined its head in acknowledgment. "Player Alan D Angello, there are 120 rooms available in this building. You may choose any that suits your preference. Standard rooms are available free of charge, unless you desire the special rooms,"

A holographic display illuminated the locations of the vacant rooms, each designated by a blinking indicator.

"The normal one will suffice" Alan responded, his gaze fixed on the holographic representation.

"Very well. Have a pleasant stay, Mr. Alan."

An access card materialized in the NPC's virtual hand, offering entry to the chosen room. Alan selected one on the top floor.

Once inside, the room revealed itself to be a standard accommodation, equipped with all the essentials for a player to find solace within the game's tumultuous reality. It contained a comfortable bed, a basic bathroom, and a window that framed the expansive ocean beyond. It was a haven, a sanctuary amidst the chaos that characterized the apocalypse.

However, Alan's reason for claiming the room wasn't driven by the desire for comfort. He settled into the space and retrieved the book that had set his quest in motion.

Alan cautiously opened the book, unsure of what to expect from its pages. To his surprise, it was a genuine philosophy book, and the first few pages explored the concept of human innocence since birth. The text delved into a time when humans were believed to possess an unbreakable connection to divinity, a purity that transcended the trials of life.

As he progressed through the initial section, Alan found himself immersed in the intricate ideas woven into the words. The philosophical musings resonated with him, as if they were threads connecting him to an age-old wisdom. But it was when he turned another page that the unexpected occurred.

Before him lay a page adorned with intricate runic inscriptions, crafted in mundane ink. The symbols danced across the page in a language Alan had never encountered before. Despite the unfamiliarity, an inexplicable urge drew him in, compelling him to read each character with meticulous care.

As his eyes traced the inscriptions, they began to emit a soft, ethereal glow. The words seemed to transcend their mere physical form. As he reached the end of the page, the inscriptions intensified in brilliance, casting a radiant light that enveloped him.

When the veil of enlightenment lifted, Alan returned to reality, a resounding notification echoed in his ears, drawing his attention to the familiar interface of his game link.

[You learned a new active skill - Meditation]

[A skill needed to comprehend meaning]

[No duration, No Cooldown]

The uncommon skill he had acquired was a staple among many spirit-based players, and its purpose was perfectly aligned with his current task - to unlock the book's secrets.

Following the skill's instruction, Alan shifted into a lotus position, his hands forming the symbolic gesture that facilitated a connection between his physical self and the intangible realms of insight. The act of meditation was familiar to him, a practice he had honed in his previous life.

[Meditation]

The skill's activation was unlike the instantaneous effects of other abilities. Instead, it was a gradual process, one that required patience and dedication. Alan embraced the experience, his consciousness delving into the depths of understanding, his focus attuned to the wisdom embedded within the book.

Time flowed like a river as Alan maintained his meditative state. With each passing moment, he felt the warm current of energy coursing through his being, a testament to his connection with the teachings before him.

Ten hours elapsed, each one marked by profound reflection and immersion. Then, a familiar chime resonated within his consciousness, signaling the conclusion of his dedicated pursuit.

[You have successfully comprehended the first part of the book]

[Increase 10 Maximum Spirit Points]

[Received one free attribute point]