Chapter 6 - Cultists

Night fell upon Aethoria as Alex made his way to a nearby town, seeking a place to rest after his arduous journey. The townsfolk buzzed with excitement and curiosity as word of the wandering warrior's adventures spread.
Among the crowd, Alex noticed a group of knights from the kingdom of Valeria, donning their majestic armor with pride.
Alex: "Greetings, noble knights of Valeria. I am Alex, a wandering warrior seeking adventure and knowledge. How can I be of service?"
*I can probably get some great quest if am with knights...so lets act respectful*
Knight Captain (Sir Richard): "We are on a mission to explore these lands and ensure the safety of our kingdom's borders. We do not require the assistance of a mere traveler."
Alex: "Ah, but I am not just any traveler. I have faced and defeated the ancient guardians inside the temple. Perhaps I can be of aid to your quest."
*I probably shouldn't have said that*
The knights exchanged skeptical glances, unimpressed by Alex's claims.
Knight 1: "You expect us to believe such grand tales?"
*I knew these idiots won't believe it*
Alex: "Believe what you will. If you insist on venturing into dangerous territories without assistance, suit yourselves. But I'll show you something for you to decide since am so kind keke"
[Skill Activated - "Blade Dance" Level 2!]
With the grace of a seasoned warrior, Alex unsheathed his sword and executed the "Blade Dance" technique. His strikes were precise and swift, leaving the knights in awe.
[Skill Activated - "Flame Cyclone" Level 1!]
As he concluded the display with a burst of fiery wind, the onlookers gasped in amazement.
Knight Captain (Sir Richard): "Impressive... perhaps there's more to you than meets the eye. Very well, you may accompany us on our mission, but do not get in our way."
Alex: "Your skepticism is understandable. However, I shall prove my worth in the face of danger."
As they ventured into the wilderness, they encountered a pack of ferocious Shadow Wolves.
[You have encountered a pack of Shadow Wolves (Level 25)]
Alex: "Watch and learn, knights keke"
Embracing the teachings of the guardians, Alex engaged the wolves with strategic maneuvers. His "Blade Dance" allowed him to swiftly evade their attacks, while his "Flame Cyclone" set the creatures ablaze.
[Congratulations! You have defeated the Shadow Wolves]
[Experience Points Gained: +500
Skill Points Gained: +1
Congratulations! You have achieved a new level!
You are now Level 23!
Bonus Attribute Points: +5
Skill Points: +2]
[Congratulations! You have reached a new milestone! You are now an Intermediate Warrior!]
The knights were impressed by Alex's combat prowess, but they remained cautious in their praise.
Alex: "This is just the beginning. The journey ahead will be filled with even greater challenges."
Knight 3: "We shall see if you are up to the task."
As they continued their patrol, they heard rumors of a rising threat from a mysterious cult. Intrigued, Alex urged the knights to investigate further.
Alex: "The cult could be seeking powerful relics. It's best to confront them before they cause more harm."
Knight 1: "We have no evidence of such claims. Nonetheless, we shall keep our eyes open."
Their investigation led them to a secluded cave, where the cult was rumored to gather. The cave was shrouded in darkness, emanating an ominous aura.
Alex: "Prepare yourselves. This may be more dangerous than we anticipate."
[You have entered the "Cave of Shadows." This is a high-level area with formidable enemies. Proceed with caution.]
Alex: "This place reeks of malevolence. Brace yourselves, everyone."
As they ventured further into the cave, they encountered the cult's zealots, cloaked in dark robes and chanting incantations. The knights' grim expressions revealed their unease.
Cult Zealot: "Intruders! You dare disrupt our sacred rituals!"
Alex: "Your darkness will not prevail. Stand down!"
The knights and Alex engaged the zealots in a fierce battle. The cultists wielded dark magic, making the fight even more challenging.
Though the battle was intense, the group managed to emerge victorious. The cult zealots were defeated, but their sinister presence lingered in the cave.
[Experience Points Gained: +800
Skill Points Gained: +2
Congratulations! You have achieved a new level!
You are now Level 24!
Bonus Attribute Points: +6
Skill Points: +3]
Alex: "This is just the beginning. We must put an end to their dark rituals before they bring more harm to Aethoria."
Knight 3: "Agreed. Your prowess in battle is commendable, Alex. You've proven yourself, at least for now."
Alex: "Hmmm, I'll increase my Strength and Agility for better combat performance, and add one point to Intelligence and Vitality to enhance my overall abilities. As for the skill points, I'll invest one in upgrading 'Blade Dance' and one in 'Flame Cyclone.' The last point... I'll save it for now, waiting for the right moment to unlock a new skill."
[Attribute Points:
Strength (+2)
Agility (+1)
Intelligence (+1)
Vitality (+1) ]
[Skill Points:
"Blade Dance" Level 3 (+1 Skill Point)
"Flame Cyclone" Level 2 (+1 Skill Point)
Unallocated Skill Points (+1 Skill Point) ]
As they left the cave, the sunlight warmed their faces, signifying a new day and new challenges that awaited them.