Chapter 22: Ritual
The glowing interface of the gaming pod surrounded Marcus as he logged into YGGDRASIL, his heartbeat quickening with anticipation. Time was running out. A month remained before the Save the Imprisoned Dryad Queen, Elyssera quest would expire, and Marcus knew the stakes were higher than ever. Every moment spent grinding, strategizing, and preparing would shape his chances of success.
As Dawnfyr materialized within the bustling marketplace of Thistlewood Rest, Marcus began his familiar ritual—a shopping spree that had become a cornerstone of his gaming experience. Despite his towering Forest Ogre form and intimidating presence, Marcus had earned a reputation as a relentless buyer who left no rare item untouched.
The marketplace was lively with both NPCs and players. Merchant stalls overflowed with enchanted gear, consumables, and unique items. Marcus immediately opened the store interface, his eyes scanning the daily specials, limited-time offers, and rare collectibles.
His top priority was the Healing Potions of Vital Grace—once common but now a rarity due to the bug that had led to their ban. The potions were legendary for restoring both HP and stamina in large amounts. Players who had stockpiled them before the ban now guarded their supplies jealously, knowing their value would only increase with time.
Marcus didn't hesitate. He bought as many as were available, watching the inventory counter climb:
Healing Potions of Vital Grace: x15.
Mana Bloom Elixirs: x10.
Antidote Blossoms: x8.
"Better safe than sorry," Marcus muttered, glancing at his already overflowing inventory.
Next, he scanned for unique items. A shimmering Moonlit Talisman caught his attention—it was advertised as a defensive accessory that boosted magic resistance by 15% during nighttime combat. "Could come in handy," Marcus said, adding it to his cart without hesitation.
Finally, Marcus moved on to gear. Among the offerings was an enchanted robe, the Emberwoven Shroud, designed for Elementalist players. It increased fire spell effectiveness by 10% while reducing incoming fire damage by 5%. Marcus grinned as he equipped it. "Perfect for my subclass."
Marcus stood tall, his figure now adorned with upgraded gear and his inventory brimming with rare potions and elixirs. The familiar notification chimed, confirming his purchases:
Items Acquired:
Healing Potions of Vital Grace: x50.
Mana Bloom Elixirs: x30.
Antidote Blossoms: x28.
Moonlit Talisman (+15% magic resistance at night).
Emberwoven Shroud** (+10% fire spell effectiveness, -5% fire damage).
Marcus grinned, his character now brimming with supplies and upgrades. He glanced toward the distant horizon, where his quest awaited. "Time to move," he said, adjusting Crimson Fang on his back and tightening his hold on the Shard of Verdant Memory.
The journey to the Verdant Aerie, the final sanctuary, was long and fraught with challenges. Marcus knew this trial would be the most difficult yet. As he moved through the dense forests surrounding Thistlewood Rest, he encountered remnants of the chaos left by the World Enemy's corruption—the twisted forms of mobs and warped terrain spoke to the lingering effects of their influence.
The path ahead was littered with Thornshade Predators, wolf-like creatures with vine-covered bodies that lashed out with thorny strikes. Marcus activated Blade Storm, cutting through their ranks with precision.
Damage Dealt with Blade Storm: 100 Physical ATK per target.
Damage Taken: 40 Physical ATK (thorn lash).
As more predators lunged from the shadows, Marcus unleashed Verdant Cascade, weakening their defenses and healing his own HP in the process.
Damage Dealt with Verdant Cascade: 120 Magic ATK per target.
Healing Received: +15% HP.
The predators fell quickly, leaving Marcus to press on. His pace quickened as the glowing pulse of the Shard of Verdant Memory guided him toward the sanctuary.
After several hours of relentless grinding and trekking, Marcus decided to take a strategic pause. He opened his inventory, reviewing his potions and gear to ensure everything was in order. The Healing Potions of Vital Grace remained his most prized possessions, and Marcus resolved to save them for the sanctuary's trials.
The Shard of Verdant Memory pulsed steadily, its light illuminating the path ahead. Marcus tightened his grip on it, feeling the weight of the quest and the importance of the Queen's salvation.
"One month left," Marcus muttered to himself, his resolve firm. "No time to waste."
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