Chereads / Quadruple System: Are 4 Systems enough to rule the Universe? / Chapter 21 - Chapter 21: An Adventurer's Rewards

Chapter 21 - Chapter 21: An Adventurer's Rewards

In the serene outskirts of the city, under the canopy of ancient trees, Orion, Calista, and Garrick unpacked their loot from the Cursed Crypt. The Spectral Heart and Spectral Essence lay at the center, their otherworldly glow a stark contrast against the natural backdrop. "These should fetch us a good price, especially the Spectral Essence," Orion remarked, examining the swirling light within the vial.

The trio set out for the Arcane Corp, a well-known establishment in the city specializing in arcane and mystical items. Known for its fair dealings and expertise, the Arcane Corp was the ideal place to sell their unique loot and personal finds from the crypt.

Upon entering the Arcane Corp, they were greeted by shelves lined with mystical artifacts and ancient tomes. The appraiser, an elderly mage with a keen eye, examined the Spectral Essence with interest. After a thorough inspection and some friendly negotiation, they agreed on a price that left everyone satisfied. They also sold various personal items they had gathered, each adding to their total earnings.

After their successful transaction at the Arcane Corp, the team gathered outside to divide the credits. Orion's share amounted to 1700 credits, bringing his total savings to 5100. As he pocketed his share, a somber thought crossed his mind – he still owed a substantial debt of 20000 credits. This realization dampened his spirits slightly, reminding him that his journey to financial freedom was far from over.

With their earnings divided, the team made their way to the bustling hub of the Adventurers Guild. The hall was alive with the energy of countless adventurers sharing stories and seeking new quests. At the mission desk, they presented the Spectral Heart. The guild officer, impressed by the rarity of their find, congratulated them on their successful mission. As the guild updated their records, there was a sense of accomplishment among the trio for completing such a challenging task.

The guild awarded each member with 500 Guild Points. These points were a testament to their skill and bravery in the crypt. Orion, Calista, and Garrick each received their share, a recognition that bolstered their standing within the adventuring community.

In the heart of the bustling, futuristic city, where towering skyscrapers met the vibrant glow of neon lights, Orion, Calista, and Garrick concluded their business. They each pulled out their communicators, sleek devices that served as lifelines in their world of adventure. With a few taps on the holographic interface, they exchanged contact information, ensuring they could easily connect for future endeavors.

"Got it," Calista confirmed as Orion's contact info synced with her device. "It's been an incredible journey. Let's definitely stay in touch."

Garrick gave a thumbs-up as his communicator beeped in confirmation. "Agreed. You never know when we'll cross paths again. Maybe on some new adventure."

A sense of camaraderie lingered in the air as they acknowledged the bond forged in the depths of the Cursed Crypt.

With a final nod and a promise to reconnect, they parted ways, each disappearing into the thrum of the city. The futuristic metropolis was alive with activity, its inhabitants moving like a fluid stream amidst the glow of neon and the hum of hover vehicles.

Orion took a solitary path through the city, the towering buildings casting long shadows on the streets. He appreciated the blend of tranquility and subtle energy that the night brought. The city, a fusion of technology and humanity, offered him a moment to decompress and gather his thoughts.

Walking through the quieter districts, with their ambient lighting and the soft hum of distant traffic, Orion contemplated his next steps. The adrenaline of the crypt adventure had subsided, replaced by an anticipatory excitement for what lay ahead. He knew that new challenges and opportunities awaited ahead, but for now, he savored the calm of the present.

Orion's steps eventually led him to the residential area of the city, where homes blended modern design with natural elements. The streets were quieter here, a stark contrast to the buzzing center of the city. He approached a modest building, its facade adorned with climbing plants that glowed softly in the dark.

Upon entering his home, Orion was greeted by the familiar, comforting presence of his grandfather, Alexander. The old man was seated in his favorite armchair, a book in hand. He looked up, his eyes crinkling with a smile.

"Back from your adventures, I see," Alexander remarked, setting his book aside.

Orion nodded, a tired yet content smile on his face. "Yeah, it was quite a journey. We managed to clear the Cursed Crypt."

"Ah, the Cursed Crypt," Alexander mused, his tone hinting at old memories. "Did you find what you were looking for?"

"In a way, yes," Orion replied, sitting down across from his grandfather. "We found some interesting artifacts and managed to lift a curse. It was... enlightening."

The two engaged in small talk, with Orion sharing details of the adventure and the challenges they had faced. Alexander listened intently, occasionally offering insights or a piece of advice. It was a comfortable exchange, one that reminded Orion of the support and wisdom his grandfather always provided.

As their conversation dwindled, Orion excused himself, mentioning his need for rest after the taxing adventure. He made his way to his room, a space that was a blend of personal sanctuary and a repository of his adventuring gear.

In the solitude of his room, Orion took a moment to reflect on the day's events. He thought about his companions, the battles they had fought, and the mysteries they had uncovered. The experiences had left him with a sense of fulfillment, yet he knew there was much more to explore, much more to learn.

Orion focused inwardly, silently calling forth his System Window. Instantly, a detailed holographic display materialized in front of him, hovering in the air with a soft luminescence. The window, a showed a comprehensive overview of his current status:

[ Name: Orion ]

[ System: Fused System (Level-Up, Cultivation, Store, Quests) ]

[ Level: 5 ]

[ Mana: 400/200(600) ]

[ Qi: 200/200 ]

[ Experience: 1225/2500 ]

[ Skills: Basic Mana Control (Level 1), Basic Qi Cultivation (Level 1), Access to Store (Level 1), Quest Log (Level 1), Basic Dagger Mastery (Level 2), Basic Botanical Knowledge (Level 1), Backstab (Level 1), Spectral Strike (Level 1) ]

[ Basic Stats ]

[ Strength: 14.82(24.82) ]

[ Agility: 12.93(22.93) ]

[ Endurance: 10.61 ]

[ Intelligence: 12.18 ]

[ Perception: 11.90 ]

[ Charisma: 10.51 ]

[ Luck: 25.00 ]

[ Cultivation Realm ]

[ Mortal Realm - Initiation (Rank 1) ]

[ Free Stat Points: 0 ]

[ Free Skill Points: 1 ]

[ Blessings: Blessing of Free Spirits ]

Orion studied the information, noting his increased mana capacity from the Blessing of Free Spirits and his progress towards the next level. He considered how best to allocate his free skill point, weighing the potential benefits of enhancing his existing skills or acquiring a new one.

The System Window was more than just a set of numbers and stats; it was a reflection of his journey, his struggles, and his achievements. It symbolized the path he had chosen and the challenges he had overcome. As he looked at his stats, a sense of determination filled him. He was on the right track, growing stronger and more capable with each adventure.

Orion closed the System Window, the holographic display fading into the air. He lay back on his bed, his thoughts adrift with possibilities and plans for the future. Outside, the city buzzed with life, a constant reminder of the ever-changing world he was a part of. But for now, he allowed himself to rest, to recharge for the adventures that awaited him, adventures that would undoubtedly test his limits and propel him further on his path as an adventurer.