Chapter 32: Enchanted Exchange

Rosarie's smile brightened, a spark of recognition lighting up her eyes. "Ah, I see. It must be Saleb, then. The pleasure is mine. I must apologize for any rudeness earlier, but are you Kael?"

Saad was taken aback by her familiarity with his character's name. He nodded, a mixture of surprise and curiosity welling up within him. "Yes, that's right. How did you know?"

She let out a soft chuckle, her laughter carrying a melodic quality. "Word travels quickly in here, and your efforts against the arachnid issue were quite noticeable, especially among the shops."

Saad nodded again, slowly realizing that his actions had garnered more attention from the NPCs than he had anticipated. It occurred to him that this recognition might be beneficial in the long run if he continued achieving feats.

Downplaying his role, he humbly admitted, "I didn't play a major part, to be honest." He found himself captivated by the NPC's presence; despite being scripted, there was something intriguing about her. "Right now, I'm actually here to find a light armor set," he smoothly changed the subject.

Rosarie's gaze softened, a warm kindness emanating from her as she spoke. "If that's your purpose, I might have something special to offer."

And so, Rosarie began unveiling a meticulously crafted light armor set, fashioned from quality materials. The design blended elegance with practicality, each detail carefully considered. The armor promised excellent defense while allowing for agility and comfort, a testament to Rosarie's skill.

Saad's astonishment was evident as he examined the armor. The craftsmanship surpassed his expectations, and the specifications left him amazed. "This... This is incredible. But what's the price?"

Rosarie's smile remained, her eyes warm. "I'm still an apprentice, and this isn't anything extraordinary. However, the materials used are quite-" She stumbled slightly over her words, seemingly searching for the right description. Saad looked at the price tag – a significant 100 spheres.

Taking a deep breath, he asked, "Would it be possible to reserve this?"

Rosarie seemed surprised by the request. "Reserve?"

"I hope this doesn't come across as selfish, but I really want to purchase it. Unfortunately, I currently have just under half the price," Saad explained. He felt a sense of urgency and hoped his sincerity would help in the negotiations.

"How much do you have?" Her question caught him off guard.

"48 spheres," he admitted, and Rosarie pursed her lips. After a moment, she took a deep breath and nodded. "You can pay me 40 spheres now and the remaining 60 spheres by the end of the month," she said gently.

Saad felt a surge of gratitude for her understanding. "Thank you. I truly appreciate this. But are you sure it's okay?"

"It's fine. I believe you won't disappear on me," she replied. "Adventurers like you don't often visit my shop for armor. Besides, leaving it in the shop wouldn't serve any purpose."

[The NPC Rosarie looks at you with favor.]

[Your familiarity with Rosarie: The apprentice tailor, has increased.]

As realization washed over Saad like the rays of a brilliant sun, Rosarie emerged as an undiscovered gem within the expansive realm of the game. Her mastery in crafting armor bore testament to her exceptional skills, while an air of intrigue enveloped her, suggesting hidden secrets awaiting revelation. A surge of curiosity stirred within Saad, his imagination weaving stories of enigmas yet to be unveiled. Could her tale hold the key to a new quest, waiting to be unraveled?

"I promise to spread the word about your shop far and wide," Saad affirmed, his sincerity palpable. "Your talents shouldn't go unnoticed."

The radiance of Rosarie's smile deepened, a warm bloom taking hold. "Your words hold great meaning to me. I am genuinely appreciative. Should your interests expand beyond this transaction, remember that my door is always open."

With a careful grace, Rosarie removed the armor from its display, passing it to Saad. His breath caught in his throat as he reciprocated by tendering 40 spheres, a mixture of anticipation and gratitude coursing through him.

[Side Quest] [Clearing the Payment]

You have obtained the armor from Rosarie: the enigmatic tailor. Fulfill your payment obligation in due course.

Quest Details

Clearing Debt to Rosarie: Pending

Difficulty: N/A

Rewards:

Full Ownership of the [Mistwalker's Ensemble]

Enhanced Familiarity

Virtue Points: +2

Time Remaining: 28 days

As Saad secured the armor, his heart echoed with the resounding beats of an untamed adventure. Donning the light armor ensemble, each piece whispered of intricate artistry. A sweeping, dark brown cloak cascaded over him, harmonizing with the black leather tunic and trousers that effortlessly transitioned from deepest ebony to a gentle ash gray. Supple gloves adorned with delicate motifs in soft brown enveloped his hands, while boots crafted from the same ebony leather showcased meticulous silver accents along the toe and heel areas. A slim belt, adorned with silver flourishes, bore both aesthetic charm and practical utility—its adorned pouches stood ready to house minor tools and potions. These pouches, intricately adorned with silver trim, offered a sanctuary for small necessities.

As he surveyed the ensemble, a sense of weightlessness enveloped him, the armor's grace melding seamlessly with his essence. Saad's gaze shifted to Rosarie, his expression a canvas painted with gratitude and exhilaration.

[Achievement Unlocked! You have acquired your first rare light armor set!]

Mistwalker's Ensemble: +50EXP

+1 sphere

His excitement tightened his throat, his cheeks warming with a blush as he embarked on the next chapter. The armor's specifications, a reservoir of potential and capabilities, unfurled before him.

[Mist walker's Cloak]

Description: The cloak is made from the exquisite Thread of Swift Worm's Silk. It provides excellent defense, enhancing the wearer's agility. The cloak is imbued with the Essence of Steel hawk and Stone lizard, granting moderate resistance against metal, earth, and physical attacks. It billows gracefully behind the wearer, adding an air of mystique to their presence.

Durability: 100/100

Rank: Rare

-Effect-

PDEF: +40

ADEF: +40

Agility Bonus: +25

Stealth: +20

Resistance: 145% against metal and earth elemental attacks. 200% resistance against physical attacks

[Mist walker's Tunic]

Description: The tunic is crafted from the resilient Thread of Swift Worm's Silk. It offers exceptional defense while maintaining agility. Imbued with the Essence of Steel hawk and stone lizard, the tunic grants moderate resistance against metal, earth, and physical attacks. It fits snugly and provides freedom of movement during combat.

Durability: 100/100

Rank: Rare

-Effect-

PDEF: +25

ADEF: +18

Resistance: 145% against metal and earth elemental attacks. 200% resistance against physical attacks

[Mist walker's Trousers]

Description: The trousers are made from the same durable Thread of Swift Worm's Silk. They provide a balance of defense and agility, allowing for swift movements. Imbued with the Essence of Steel hawk and stone lizard, the trousers offer moderate resistance against metal, earth, and physical attacks. They are comfortable to wear and provide excellent protection for the legs.

Durability: 100/100

Rank: Rare

-Effect-

Evasion: +20

Agility Bonus: +37

Resistance: 145% against metal and earth elemental attacks. 200% resistance against physical attacks

[Mistwalker's Gloves]

Description: The gloves are crafted from the tough and resilient Leather of Rock Lizard. They offer solid defense while allowing for agile hand movements. Imbued with the Essence of Steel hawk and Stone lizard, the gloves grant moderate resistance against metal, earth, and physical attacks. They provide a secure grip and protect the wearer's hands during combat.

Durability: 100/100

Rank: Rare

-Effect-

PATK: +25

AATK: +30

Crit DMG Bonus: Physical critical damage chances are increased by 150% and Arcane critical damage chances are increase by 180%. There is 20% chance to retaliate.

[Mistwalker's Boots]

Description: The boots are made from the sturdy Leather of Rock Lizard. They provide nimble footwork combined with solid defense. Imbued with the Essence of Steel hawk and stone lizard, the boots grant moderate resistance against metal, earth, and physical attacks. They offer reliable protection and allow for swift movements across various terrains.

Durability: 100/100

Rank: Rare

-Effect-

Agility Bonus: +20

Evasion: +15

[Mistwalker's Belt and Pouches]

Description: The belt is made of sturdy leather and features several pouches for storing small items and tools. It adds functionality by allowing the wearer to carry essential items conveniently.

Durability: 100/100

Rank: Rare

-Effect-

Inventory space: +5

Saad's gaze remained transfixed on the interface, an expression of sheer astonishment etching his features as he meticulously calculated the substantial boost in stats bestowed by the newly acquired armor set. His agility alone was poised to soar past a remarkable 102, coupled with a formidable 60-plus defense. Yet, the enchantment did not cease there; this armor bore the gift of not only heightened physical resilience but also an inherent resistance to the arcane and elemental forces that often dictated the outcomes of battles. It was a boon beyond measure, a veritable treasure for one beset by the struggle of maintaining vitality in this virtual realm. The magnitude of his gratitude toward Rosarie expanded exponentially, her craftsmanship tantamount to a lifeline in his quest for ascendancy.

The newfound strength coursing through Saad ignited a fresh wave of determination. A renewed passion welled up within him, driving him to delve deeper into what more he could learn from the enigmatic tailor. The longing to discover even greater treasures, both in terms of materials and knowledge, burned like an unwavering fire.