Chapter 12: Patrolling
Daniel's commitment to protecting Bree had solidified his role as a leader among the villagers. With the defense force in place, he decided it was time to venture beyond the familiar bounds of the village to conduct a patrol. The outskirts of Bree were known to harbor various dangers, and Daniel felt it necessary to ensure the safety of the area. This patrol would also be an opportunity to further develop his skills as a Summoner.
The system had already identified this patrol as a crucial step in Daniel's journey, presenting him with a new quest:
**[Quest Alert]**
- **Outskirts Patrol**: Lead a patrol outside Bree to survey the area for threats.
- **Objective**: Complete a full circuit of the village perimeter, report findings, engage any hostile creatures encountered.
- **Reward**: Summoner's Insight Skill, +3000 XP
Equipped with the new Guard Mastery Skill from his previous quest completion, Daniel felt more confident. He gathered the defense force early in the morning, briefing them on the day's objectives. The villagers, eager and determined, were ready to follow his lead.
As they set out, Daniel felt the familiar pull of the system's notifications. He activated the quest in his mind, focusing on the objectives ahead. The outskirts of Bree were shrouded in mist, and the path was less trodden, adding an element of mystery to their journey.
The patrol began quietly, with Daniel and the guards moving cautiously through the dense underbrush. The system provided real-time updates and maps, helping them navigate through the forest and along the village's perimeter. Daniel's role was not just to lead but to be vigilant, watching for signs of danger.
As they moved deeper into the forest, the system's alert function triggered unexpectedly:
**[Combat Alert]**
- Hostile Creatures Detected: Small Goblin Band
- **Engage?** (Yes/No)
Without hesitation, Daniel chose to engage, his heart racing with anticipation. He directed the guards to form a defensive line, preparing for the encounter. Drawing on his growing powers as a Summoner, Daniel invoked the Ethereal Fox to aid them in battle.
**[System Notification]**
- **Summoning Activated**: Ethereal Fox
- **Health**: 100%
- **Effects**: Boosts patrol defense, enhances combat effectiveness
The Ethereal Fox materialized beside Daniel, its ethereal form shimmering with otherworldly energy. The goblins, surprised by the appearance of the spectral creature, hesitated momentarily, giving Daniel and his team the upper hand.
The battle was fierce but brief. The guards, emboldened by the presence of the Ethereal Fox, fought valiantly. Daniel coordinated the assault, using his summoning abilities to control the battlefield. The Ethereal Fox moved with a grace that was both beautiful and deadly, striking at the goblins with precision.
As the last of the goblins fled into the forest, the system updated their status:
**[Battle Summary]**
- Goblins Defeated: 8
- Casualties: 0 (villagers unscathed)
- Ethereal Fox Health: 90%
Daniel felt a surge of accomplishment as the immediate threat was neutralized. The system's feedback on the battle confirmed their success, and he felt the rewards of their efforts flow into him, both in terms of XP and new skills.
**[Quest Progress]**
- **Outskirts Patrol**: 1/1 successful engagement, perimeter survey complete.
The system's final reward notification followed shortly:
**[Quest Completion]**
- **Outskirts Patrol**: Quest Complete
- **Reward**: Summoner's Insight Skill
- **Experience Points Awarded**: 3000 XP
As they continued their patrol, Daniel felt the effects of the new skill activate within him. Summoner's Insight provided a deeper understanding of his magical abilities, enhancing his control over the Ethereal Fox and his other summons.
By the time they returned to Bree, the day had grown late. The village looked peaceful under the setting sun, a stark contrast to the dangers they had faced. Daniel knew that their vigilance had paid off, and Bree was safer because of it.
As he reviewed the patrol's findings with the system's reports, Daniel felt a growing sense of pride in his role as a protector of Bree. The villagers looked to him not just as a leader but as a guardian. With each quest completed and each skill developed, Daniel felt more equipped to face the challenges that lay ahead.
Determined to continue his journey of growth, Daniel planned his next steps. The system had provided him with the tools and feedback he needed to improve and adapt, and he was ready to face whatever came next. With his skills as a Summoner evolving, Daniel was prepared to defend Bree and guide its people through the uncertainties of their world.