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Chapter 179: Rewards and Improvements
🕑 Added 2024-03-16 08:07:17 +0000 UTCEntangling Mana Leech Skill Scroll
Class Requirement: Magus
Advancement Requirement: Second Advancement
Level Requirement: 1
Use: Teaches the active skill "Entangling Mana Leech," which enables the user to summon forth a dense network of mana-draining roots from the ground. These roots seek out and entangle multiple enemies within a specific radius, draining their mana and inflicting fatigue. The affected targets experience a significant reduction in their ability to cast spells and a slowdown in their movements, making it easier for the user and their allies to overpower the weakened foes.
Thorian's eyes sparkled with recognition as he examined the skill scroll. This is the same ability that bested me earlier. It's exceedingly rare for a dungeon to reward adventurers with the guardian's own skills—this is a significant boon for us.
Turning back to his teammates, Thorian said, "This is a skill scroll for magi. I hope no one objects to me claiming it for myself."
"Looks like it's a good one," Forlune grinned. "If you're interested in it, even with your vast array of skills, then it must complement your powers exceptionally well. My lord, you don’t need our permission. Just take it."
Nodding at Forlune's words, Thorian tore open the skill parchment.
[Congratulations. You have gained the skill: “Entangling Mana Leech”.]
He then surveyed the rest of the items before selecting a pair of golden armguards.
Aurelian Rootguard Bracers
Rarity: Purple Cloud
Class Requirement: Warrior
Advancement Requirement: Second Advancement
Level Requirement: 1
Effect: Constitution +25, Strength +15, Agility +10
Special Effect: Has a 10% chance to absorb mana from magical attacks, replenishing the wearer's mana slightly.
Description: Crafted from the golden exoskeleton of the Aurelian Rootwraith, these armguards blend strength with a touch of ancient magic. Their glow hints at their origin: a creature that once thrived in the heart of the Verdant Labyrinth. While enhancing the bearer's physical prowess, these bracers also offer a chance to gain mana from incoming spells, making them valuable for those who confront magic in their adventures.
Looking at the two bracers, Thorian turned to face Forlune and Zogarth. "These could suit either of you. Take a look and decide amongst yourselves who will take them."
Taking the bracers from Thorian’s hand, Forlune and Zogarth examined the description.
Letting out a sigh, Forlune said, “You’re right. These beauties indeed match both of us perfectly.”
Zogarth looked down before saying, “Forlune, you take them. While they would benefit me by enhancing my defensive capabilities, I had the opportunity to choose the item I wanted last time in the Thunderous Citadel. It’s your turn now.”
Smiling at the kind gesture, Forlune nodded, “Well then, thank you, Zogarth.”
As Forlune equipped the two armguards, Thorian turned his attention back to the treasure chest. There were only a few items left: a pair of boots and two rings.
Deciding to check out the boots first, Thorian examined their description.
Shadowstep Greaves
Rarity: Purple Cloud
Class Requirement: Assassin
Advancement Requirement: Second Advancement
Level Requirement: 1
Effect: Agility +25, Strength +15, Mana +10
Special Effect: Gives a 10% boost to movement speed and significantly reduces footstep noise.
Description: Crafted from elements of the Aurelian Rootwraith, these boots are perfect for those who prioritize stealth and speed. They are light, allowing for quick, silent movement, ideal for staying undetected. The boots' muted glow reflects their enchanted origins, offering a blend of ancient stealth magic and modern utility.
Satisfied with the boots' effectiveness, Thorian turned to Nox and handed them to him, saying, "These are for you."
"Thank you, Thorian," Nox responded with a light nod, accepting the greaves.
With that, Thorian's attention shifted back to the two rings remaining in the chest.
Verdant Heart Ring
Rarity: Yellow Storm
Class Requirement: Magus
Advancement Requirement: Second Advancement
Level Requirement: 1
Effect: Mana +20, Agility +10
Special Effect: Increases wood magic potency by 15%.
Description: This ring, crafted from ancient tree heartwood touched by the Aurelian Rootwraith's energy, enhances wisdom, speeds mana regeneration, and boosts wood magic potency. Ideal for mages and druids seeking to strengthen their connection with forest magic.
Lifewoven Signet
Rarity: Yellow Storm
Class Requirement: Priest
Level Requirement: 20
Effect: Mana +20, Constitution +10
Special Effect: Increases the potency of blessings by 15%.
Description: Forged from a sapling that sprouted where the Aurelian Rootwraith once walked, this signet ring is imbued with the essence of rejuvenation. It bolsters the wearer's spirit and enhances blessings.
Looking at the two rings, Thorian immediately knew who should receive them. After slipping on the Verdant Heart Ring, he handed the other one to Vigil. With the rewards now fully distributed, the group exited the dungeon. Having cleared the first two floors of the Thunderous Citadel, they headed back to the village.
As the group began to disperse, each attending to their own tasks, Thorian stopped Forlune. "For today, I want you to delegate the issue with the rocks to a subordinate. There's a more pressing task that requires your attention."
"And what would that be, my lord?" Forlune asked, taken aback.
"Similar to Zogarth's engagement with the orcs, you need to locate kobold settlements," Thorian detailed. "We can't afford to have our forces too unbalanced in favor of any one faction. The orcs now outnumber our own kin, and it's time to even the scales."
"I understand," Forlune nodded, then grinned. "Leave this task to me; I won't let you down."
With a nod of approval, Thorian allowed Forlune to proceed with his mission. As for Thorian, he had another issue to address.
Looking up at the dual suns in the sky, Thorian was reminded that his meeting with the humans was imminent. "Today marks the beginning of our first expedition with the humans. This matter must be handled with the utmost care."
Understanding the importance of first impressions, Thorian was determined to ensure that all his subordinates grasped the significance of today’s mission. It was crucial to start on a positive note to avoid any complications in the future.
Upon returning to the Village Hall, Thorian instructed Alacritas to escort William and his group to Wolvendale. Then, he commenced his routine elemental control practice.
With his fire manipulation skills nearing peak proficiency, Thorian concentrated on refining them. For an entire hour, he practiced controlling more fireballs, making them orbit his body. He began with six, while four others remained stationary atop his fingers. Gradually, he managed to control the seventh, then the eighth, and finally the ninth.
Remarkably, once he achieved control over nine fireballs, mastering the tenth became instinctive. It was as though a mental barrier had vanished, allowing him to manipulate the tenth fireball with ease, joining the others in their dance around him.
[Congratulations. Your skill "Fire Manipulation I" has been upgraded to "Fire Manipulation II"]
Thrilled by this advancement, Thorian impulsively checked his status panel to review his newly improved skill.
Fire Manipulation II
Description: Building upon the foundational abilities of Fire Manipulation I, this enhanced skill grants users increased precision and diversity in controlling flames. With Fire Manipulation II, wielders can now access first-advancement level fire skills, reflecting a significant upgrade in both power and control. This level allows for the crafting of more intricate and potent fire-based abilities, constrained only by the user's creativity, expanded mana reserves, and deeper understanding of fire manipulation.
Proficiency: 0%
Reviewing the skill description, Thorian couldn't help but laugh. Without a moment's hesitation, he decided to test it immediately. Raising his palm high, he conjured a Greater Fireball, not through invocation as usual, but using his fire manipulation technique.
Observing the colossal fireball he had materialized, Thorian grinned. It consumed exactly the same amount of mana as it would have through direct invocation.
Yet, Thorian's curiosity was far from satisfied. If Fire Manipulation merely allowed the use of skills he already possessed, it wouldn't have intrigued him so much.
Focusing on the fireball, Thorian willed it to condense. In an instant, the sphere of flames, nearly a meter in diameter, shrunk to half its size, then just a quarter, becoming a concentrated fireball brimming with immense power, speed, and explosivity.
There was some mana inefficiency, but it's minimal. I only lost about 20% of the mana I would typically use through the system.
Eager to explore further, Thorian shaped the fireball into a long lance. While already impressive, he aspired to push the boundaries even more.
Twisting his hand, the lance began to rotate, quickly spinning at such a high speed that it started to suck in the surrounding air, gaining even more power and shining with a brighter intensity.
Laughing at the spectacle, Thorian quickly dispelled the flames, fearing they might damage the meeting room.
Taking a deep breath to contain his excitement, he reflected, I’m slowly regaining the power of my past life. While my Fire Manipulation skills are still modest compared to my previous level, I have the advantage this time to manipulate more than one element. In fact, I can manipulate them all.
Pleased with the outcome of his experiments, Thorian settled back into his chair. Just as he was about to commence training on water manipulation, there was a knock at the door.
"Come in," he instructed, clearing his throat to prepare for the next task.
Alacritas entered the meeting room, followed closely by William and Tristan.
"It is a pleasure to see you, Lord Thorian," William said as he took a seat at the table, with Tristan by his side. "As we've discussed previously, I have brought ten of my most loyal men, excluding Tristan, to participate in the dungeon expeditions."
Thorian nodded in acknowledgment before turning to Alacritas. "I trust they are well accommodated."
"Yes, my lord," Alacritas responded with a light bow. "Cassia is showing them around the village. Currently, Brix is serving them some roasted Thumpalopes."
"Good," Thorian nodded again before his gaze returned to William. "For this dungeon run, it would be wise for your men to be divided into pairs and accompanied by our squads."
"They would certainly appreciate that," William replied with a smile. "While we do trust you and your people, my men will indeed feel more comfortable with their comrades at their side."
He then turned to Tristan and added, "As for myself, I would like to be paired with my son."
"Of course," Thorian agreed. "We'll have one of our strongest squds accompany you. You're already acquainted with them: Ventus and Ifrit. You met them earlier when we were handling the spider nest."
"Are you referring to the orange and blue kobolds?" William inquired. "If so, then we're indeed in good hands. I've heard much about their achievements."
Smiling at William's response, Thorian decided to shift the conversation to a more pressing issue. "Yes, those are the ones. However, there's another matter we've discussed that I hope you have an answer for by now." His expression turned more serious as he looked at William and asked, "Which of the candidates I proposed is to be my Vassal Lord?"
Comments
omar el amrani
Oh, it definitely stagnated. But it's picking up pace right now
T'Ericka
Yas!! Happy with the pacing although I’m kinda itching to see the village grow. Feels like the village has stagnated although he has been recruiting more citizens
