Kaito stood at the quest board, his heart still racing from the excitement of his recent victory over the goblins. The guild was bustling with activity, adventurers sharing tales of their exploits and strategizing for future quests. As he scanned the board, a particular quest caught his eye: Collect Rare Herbs in Misty Valley. The description detailed the challenges of the quest, including the treacherous terrain and the lurking monsters that called the valley home.
Kaito felt a thrill of anticipation. Rare herbs were not only valuable for potions and healing but also sought after by alchemists and healers throughout the region. The thought of venturing into the mysterious Misty Valley, known for its enchanting beauty and perilous dangers, ignited a spark of adventure within him. He approached the guild receptionist, a young woman with bright eyes and a welcoming smile.
"Excuse me, Elara," Kaito said, catching her attention. "I'd like to accept the quest for collecting rare herbs in Misty Valley."
Elara's expression shifted to one of approval. "A wise choice, Kaito. The herbs are indeed valuable, but be cautious. The valley is always shrouded in mist, making navigation difficult. There are also reports of monsters that roam the area. Are you prepared for the journey?"
Kaito nodded, determination etched on his face. "I am ready. I'll gather the herbs and return safely."
"Excellent! Here are the directions to Misty Valley," she said, handing him a parchment. "You'll need to take a carriage from the city to the village of Eldergrove, which is the closest settlement to the valley. There are always carriages going to Eldergrove, and I recommend you take the one that leaves shortly. It will cost you around four silver coins, making it a more affordable option. From Eldergrove, it's a half-day's journey on foot to reach the valley itself."
"Thank you, Elara," Kaito replied, tucking the parchment into his satchel. He felt a sense of purpose as he prepared for the journey ahead.
Kaito made his way to the city's carriage station, where he found a line of carriages ready to depart. The air was filled with the sounds of chatter and the clattering of hooves on cobblestones. He approached the driver of a sturdy-looking carriage, a middle-aged man with a weathered face.
"Good day! I need a ride to Eldergrove," Kaito said, handing over four silver coins.
The driver nodded, gesturing for Kaito to hop aboard. "Climb in, lad. We'll be on our way shortly."
As the carriage lurched forward, Kaito settled into his seat, watching the city fade into the distance. The landscape transformed from bustling streets to rolling hills and lush fields. He felt a sense of freedom wash over him, the anticipation of adventure coursing through his veins.
During the journey, Kaito decided to take advantage of the time in the carriage. He closed his eyes and focused inward, entering a meditative state. Utilizing his True Energy Breathing skill, he began to draw in the ambient energy around him, channeling it into his body. With each breath, he felt the Maintenance Energy (ME) building within him, revitalizing his spirit and enhancing his capabilities for the challenges ahead.
The rhythmic motion of the carriage and the gentle sounds of nature outside created a serene atmosphere, allowing him to deepen his meditation. He visualized the energy flowing through him, reinforcing his resolve and preparing him for the trials that awaited in the Misty Valley.
As the carriage continued its journey, Kaito felt a sense of calm wash over him. The energy he accumulated would serve him well, especially in a place as unpredictable as the valley. After two long days of travel, the carriage finally rolled into the village of Eldergrove. The village was quaint, with cobblestone streets and charming cottages adorned with flower boxes.
Kaito disembarked and stretched his legs, grateful to be on solid ground again. He took a moment to gather his thoughts and prepare for the final leg of his journey. He approached a small shop that sold supplies for adventurers, hoping to stock up on anything he might need for the trek into the valley.
"Welcome! What can I do for you?" the shopkeeper, an elderly woman with a warm smile, asked.
"I'm heading to Misty Valley to collect rare herbs. Do you have any supplies that might help?" Kaito inquired.
The shopkeeper nodded knowingly. "Ah, the Misty Valley! You'll want to be prepared. Here, take these healing potions and some rations for your journey it will cost you 4 silver coins.
Kaito accepted the items gratefully, feeling more equipped for the challenges ahead. After thanking the shopkeeper, he handed over three silver coins for some essential supplies: food rations and healing potions. With his satchel now filled with provisions, he set off towards the edge of Eldergrove, where the path to Misty Valley began.
As he entered the valley, Kaito felt a surge of confidence. His skill, Eye of the Maintainer, had recently upgraded to a rare level, granting him the ability to see the entire valley with clarity. The mist that once obscured his vision now parted like a curtain, revealing the landscape in vivid detail. He could see the winding paths, the clusters of trees, and the locations where the rare herbs grew.
With the enhanced vision from his Eye of the Maintainer, Kaito could also discern the best routes to take, avoiding potential dangers. As he made his way deeper into the valley, he felt the familiar pulse of energy from his True Energy Breathing skill, revitalizing him for the journey ahead.
As he walked, Kaito's Gathering skill, now also upgraded to a rare level, began to guide him toward the locations of the herbs. He could see faint glimmers in the underbrush, indicating where the rare plants thrived. His instincts were heightened, alerting him to the presence of potential threats nearby.
Suddenly, a warning sensation prickled at the back of his mind. Kaito instinctively ducked behind a large tree, his heart racing. Peering cautiously around the trunk, he spotted a group of figures moving through the mist. As they drew closer, he could see that they were Goblins, but these were larger and more formidable than the ones he had encountered before. They were Goblin warriors, their eyes glinting with malice, and they rode on the backs of fierce wolves.
Kaito's instincts screamed at him to remain hidden. He watched as the Goblin warriors carried dead animals, likely spoils from their recent hunts. The sight sent a chill down his spine; it was clear that there was a Goblin town nearby, and these warriors were not to be trifled with.
Using his Eye of the Maintainer, Kaito assessed the situation. He could see the layout of the area, noting the paths the Goblins were taking and the direction of their camp. The warriors were focused on their task, unaware of his presence, but Kaito knew he had to be cautious.
He took a deep breath, steadying himself. The herbs he sought were still his priority, but he needed to navigate this dangerous situation carefully. Kaito decided to wait until the Goblin warriors moved further away before making his move. He focused on the sounds around him, listening for any signs of danger.
As the warriors continued on their path, Kaito seized the opportunity to slip away from his hiding spot. He moved quietly, using the cover of the trees and the mist to conceal his presence. His heart raced with adrenaline, but he remained focused on his goal.
Finally, he spotted a cluster of vibrant green plants with delicate purple flowers peeking through the underbrush. This was it—the rare herbs he had been searching for! Kaito knelt down, carefully gathering the herbs while keeping an eye on his surroundings. He knew he had to be quick; the Goblin warriors could return at any moment.
With his satchel now filled with the precious herbs, Kaito felt a sense of accomplishment. However, he was acutely aware of the danger that lurked nearby. He decided it was best to retreat back to the safety of the trees and plan his next move. The Goblin town was a threat he could not ignore, and he needed to find a way to navigate the valley without drawing their attention.
As he made his way back, Kaito's instincts remained sharp, ready to alert him to any approaching dangers. He was determined to complete his quest and return to the guild with the rare herbs, but he knew that the challenges of the Misty Valley were far from over.