Doug killed three more Rabbid animals with his spear and figured it best to buy stronger guns before moving further into the wilderness. He would, as far as he knew, be fighting bigger guys in the process.
His skills were limited at best, and although his basic attacks weren't terribly weak against low-level opponents, if he wanted to reach higher levels faster he'd need to upgrade his abilities. So he set off to find a better weapon.
The ruins of Semyaza were found in the East of Conquest’s map and contained several shops for all levels of players with different abilities and needs. Since he didn’t know exactly which store had the most functional gear, he just wandered aimlessly until he found something.
He passed the general store, then fell silent when he saw a sign proclaiming "New Weapons! Low Prices!" A quick peek inside showed a few shelves of swords and shields. He snatched up a golden-hilted shield and ran his fingers lovingly across its metal surface. This was perfect; it was sturdy yet light enough to wield easily. His sword arm ached after swinging around his spear for hours on end. Now he wouldn't have to worry about muscle fatigue slowing him down.
An alert popped up in his NeuReality HUD.
The Aegis of the Eternal Sentinel
This medieval shield consists of a luminous stone that can be used to absorb and reflect magic. It increases the strength of the wielder, spits out powerful energies, and counters attacks. Its medieval name is the "Vigilant Ward" which translates as ‘protective’, and can be used to keep track of and respond to the battlefield.
[Expand Details]
Cost: 700 Gold Coin / 350 CyberBolt Credits
Doug selected Expand Details.
Enter the "Aegis of the Eternal Sentinel", a barrier of remarkable magic powers. This magical shield was wrought by an old lineage of master blacksmiths and aeons, who gave it healing and virulent magic.
The Aegis of the Eternal Sentinel is a massive cylindrical shield carved from a tough metal alloy and engraved with symbols and creatures from the mythology. Most striking of all, it has a large, shining gemstone in the center that turns different colors depending on what magic it’s being taken up or reflected.
Magic gives the shield-holder some very special powers. For one, it can soak up and suppress most elemental and magical spells such as fire, ice, lightning and curses. The shield can also increase the wielder’s power and agility to be faster and more powerful in battle.
Secondly, the Aegis of the Eternal Sentinel will unleash energy explosions to slow down enemies, break barriers and even cancel magical spells. They are powered by the stone in the middle of the shield, which glows brighter as the charge builds.
The Aegis of the Eternal Sentinel can change the tide of any battle. Its peculiarity means it is very much a favorite among warriors, magi and adventurers.
As for its medieval name, the Aegis of the Eternal Sentinel probably stands for "Vigilant Ward". The shield has both an invulnerable and a constantly monitoring and responding ability, which explains its name.
[Collapse Details]
Another alert popped up on top of the description.
Do you wish to purchase this Shield? You have 1,000 credits available for use.
Yes | No
Doug smiled and selected “Yes”.
[-350 Credits]
Next, he moved on to the weapons' area of the shop, where he browsed through the various options available. There were bows and crossbows, spears, axes, maces, warhammers, flails, hammers, daggers… he was overwhelmed by the sheer variety of choices. Some were covered in gold filigree while others boasted intricate patterns etched onto their surfaces. All looked deadly in one form or another, but not knowing how strong they really were, he hesitated before selecting any particular weapon.
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Finally, he spotted a shortsword hanging on a rack near the counter. The blade was plain steel, dull and unadorned save for two ornate runes engraved on either side of the pommel. They reminded him of the markings he saw when looking at his shield earlier.
He reached out for the sword, and his fingers brushed across its cool surface. Instantly, his body felt energized and invigorated, and his muscles tightened. For a brief moment, he wondered if someone nearby had cast a spell on him without realizing it, because his senses sharpened considerably.
Then, as quickly as it happened, the feeling passed.
"Beautiful, isn’t it?"
Doug turned toward the voice behind him and saw a woman standing next to the counter. Her eyes shone light blue, almost sapphire in hue, and she gave him a warm smile.
"Hello." Doug said, unsure of what else to say.
"Hi, my name is Jenn.” she batted her eyes.
Jenn was tall and slender, with delicate features and soft white skin. She appeared to be in her mid-fourties, judging by the lines around her mouth and the slight creases on her forehead. Her lips were plump and inviting, and her light blue eyes sparkled brightly whenever she spoke. When she flashed those dazzling eyes at him, Doug immediately liked her.
She wasn't wearing armor, nor did she carry any weapons aside from the dagger tucked into her belt. Instead, she opted to wear a simple cotton shirt, matching shorts, and knee-high leather boots. The outfit hugged every curve, accentuating her feminine figure.
Her hair was red with small strands of silver, pulled back into twin buns held in place by gold clips. Cat-eye glasses framed her beautiful face, contrasting nicely with the rest of her fair complexion.
"What do you think of this sword?" Jenn asked again, interrupting his thoughts.
Doug looked down at the weapon lying on the floor. At least it looks well balanced. And the runes carved into its sides look interesting.
He knelt beside the sword and picked it up, admiring its weight.
A new alert popped up in his NeuReality HUD.
The Blade of Whispering Winds
This magical shortsword grants the wielder exceptional speed, precision, and control over gusts of wind. It can push back enemies, extinguish flames, and grant temporary bursts of speed and agility. Its medieval name is the "Zephyr's Kiss", reflecting its connection to the wind and its swift nature.
[Expand Details]
Cost: 800 Gold Coin / 400 CyberBolt Credits
Doug clicked on the Expand Details button.
Introducing the "Blade of Whispering Winds", a shortsword with unique magical properties. This enchanted weapon was forged by a legendary blacksmith who imbued it with the power of the wind.
The Blade of Whispering Winds is a very elegant, simple shortsword with a curved blade of a rare, light metal. Its hilt is wrapped in satin and the sword’s pommel contains a gemstone that flashes a light of white color when held.
The sword's magic grants its wielder several unique abilities. For one thing, it cuts through the air almost without effort, and is so fast and accurate that it’s incredibly swift in combat. Second, the Blade of Whispering Winds might blow wind that can rebuff foes, dislodge them or put out fire. Such gusts are set with a flick of the wrist, and their speed and strength can be adjusted by the operator.
It’s also possible that the Blade of Whispering Winds will grant its user instantaneous speed and dexterity, allowing them to run fast and avoid attacks. This effect is caused by a secret spell that must be said in a low focused voice.
When deployed, the Blade of Whispering Winds is a lethal and potent weapon that will keep enemies at bay and kill with deadly force. These properties render it the most coveted by skilled warriors and assassins.
The Blade of Whispering Winds, with its medieval name would have been called the "Zephyr’s Kiss". This name reflects the sword's connection to the wind, as well as its swift and precise nature.The Blade of Whispering Winds is a very elegant, simple shortsword with a curved blade of a rare, light metal. Its hilt is wrapped in satin and the sword’s pommel contains a gemstone that flashes a light of white color when held.
The sword's magic grants its wielder several unique abilities. For one thing, it cuts through the air almost without effort, and is so fast and accurate that it’s incredibly swift in combat. Second, the Blade of Whispering Winds might blow wind that can rebuff foes, dislodge them or put out fire. Such gusts are set with a flick of the wrist, and their speed and strength can be adjusted by the operator.
It’s also possible that the Blade of Whispering Winds will grant its user instantaneous speed and dexterity, allowing them to run fast and avoid attacks. This effect is caused by a secret spell that must be said in a low focused voice.
When deployed, the Blade of Whispering Winds is a lethal and potent weapon that will keep enemies at bay and kill with deadly force. These properties render it the most coveted by skilled warriors and assassins.
The Blade of Whispering Winds, with its medieval name would have been called the "Zephyr’s Kiss". This name reflects the sword's connection to the wind, as well as its swift and precise nature.
[Collapse Details]
Another alert popped up again on top of the description.
Do you wish to purchase this Shield? You have 650 credits available for use.
Yes | No
Doug didn’t even hesitate as he selected “Yes”.
[-400 Credits]
Jenn smiled and then handed him a plain wooden box, which he opened and inspected curiously. Inside lay three items: A golden ring, a bracelet encrusted with rubies, and a necklace adorned with emeralds.
“Could I also interest you in any of these?” she asked politely.
Ah, she’s the shop owner. That makes more sense. She must be an NPC.
"I'd love to," he replied enthusiastically, "but unfortunately, I'm low on funds right now."
Jenn nodded understandingly and gestured towards the door.
"That's alright. Come back anytime!"
? Copyright 2023 R.M. Mulder. All rights reserved.
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