Brother's Benediction- Hidden Quest

The mention of snow fruit jogged Saad's memory, reminding him of the 100 fruits he had received as a reward. Deciding to test it out, he took one of the fruits from his inventory and placed it in front of Aali. The snow leopard, who had been previously ignoring Saad's existence, now seemed intrigued. Her nose twitched, and her curious eyes locked onto the fruit.

"Aali, try this," Saad said, holding the fruit closer to her.

Aali sniffed the fruit cautiously before taking a tentative bite. Almost immediately, her demeanor shifted. She finished the fruit quickly, and a soft glow enveloped her.

[Familiarity +5]

[Experience +15]

Saad watched in amazement as the notifications popped up.

[Snow Fruit]

Rank: Intermediate

Description: The snow fruit can only be consumed by the beasts of icy element and environment.

Effects: If a human consumes it, they will be affected by negative status 'chirping birds' for 30 sec.

EXP: +15

Familiarity: +5

"Well, looks like you like snow fruit, huh?" Saad said with a grin. "This might be easier than I thought."

Aali blinked at him, her interest now piqued by the possibility of more treats. Saad chuckled, feeling a renewed sense of optimism about his journey with his new companion.

As Aali consumed the fruit, silver text floated above her, indicating that her experience points had increased. Encouraged by the results, Saad summoned the entire box with the remaining 99 fruits and placed it in front of her. The snow leopard's eyes gleamed with excitement as she got up and began to eat, her tail wagging contentedly.

Saad watched in fascination as pink hearts popped up alongside the experience points. It was clear that Aali was not only gaining experience but also growing fonder of him with each fruit she devoured. His bond with the majestic creature was strengthening before his eyes.

As Aali continued to eat, another notification appeared: [Level Up]. The silver text glowed brightly, signaling her progress.

[Level Up]

Aali has reached Level 6.

Saad grinned, feeling a surge of satisfaction. "Looks like you're not just a pretty face, Aali. You're getting stronger, too."

He patted her head affectionately as she finished the last of the fruits. The bond between them was growing stronger because now the leopard didn't growl but rather purred and even closed her eyes, raising her face up to let him scratch under her chin.

Saad opened up the status window and saw her status.

[Aurora Claw]

Name: Aali

Gender: Female

Rank: Rare

Type: Ice

Level 6: 0/600 

HP: 850/850

Description:

Aurora Claw is a magnificent horned snow leopard with a sleek and agile build, adorned with a luxurious coat of thick fur that shimmers like freshly fallen snow in the sunlight. Her striking appearance is accentuated by piercing aurora eyes that seem to mirror the icy beauty of the frozen tundra.

Personality:

Fierce Protector, Curious Explorer, Regal Dignity

Attributes:

Stamina: 34 Strength: 35

Agility: 40 Intelligence: 35

Charm: 37 Dexterity: 32 

Vitality: 40 Arcane Points: 35

Special Abilities:

Arctic Adaptation: Grants 100% resistance to cold-based environmental effects and advantage on checks related to survival in cold climates.

Silent Stalker: A stealth bonus of 24 which helps the rider stay hidden from enemies.

Inventory: Gain additional 24 inventory spaces when saddlebags are attached to creature harness.

Aurora Borealis Aura: Once per long rest, can emit an ethereal glow, providing advantage on healing the mount as the time passes.

Combat assistance: Gives an attack bonus of 24. Additional attack contain Horn Charge as Aurora Claw charges forward with remarkable speed, goring enemies with her sharp horns. This ability deals 36% piercing damage to a single target in front of her and can potentially knock them prone on a successful hit.

Relationship: 304/350 [Companion]

The power of the snow leopard had increased significantly. Saad marveled at his good fortune, realizing that without the reward of the fruits, leveling up Aali so quickly would have been impossible. It was a stroke of luck that gave him a valuable head start. Or else he would have needed to spend money again to get the fruits.

"So, Aali, should we go to Rosarie and complete our quest?" he asked, rubbing her head. The snow leopard, now brimming with energy, let out a sound that could only be described as a meow, though it was far from the typical cat's meow. The comical noise made Saad snicker, and he felt a surge of affection for his new companion.

 Saad hesitated, a mix of fear and excitement coursing through him as he slowly approached Aali. Clearing his throat, he hoped the snow leopard wouldn't attack. Aali growled, clearly displeased, but allowed Saad to mount her.

He hugged her neck, both lovingly and somewhat scared. "Alright, Aali, let's head to Rosarie," he said, guiding her in the right direction. Aali started to run, her powerful strides making Saad's heart race with a thrilling blend of exhilaration and anticipation.

------

 Rosarie's shop was as antique as ever. Saad dismounted from Aali, climbed the few steps, and pushed the door open. The shop appeared empty, but he could hear the whirling of a sewing machine. Stepping inside, he called out Rosarie's name. The whirling stopped, followed by the sound of soft footsteps. Rosarie emerged from the back room, wearing a long brown dress adorned with a small sunflower motif on her chest along with an apron. She smiled softly and welcomed Kael. Saad couldn't agree more with sunflower. Rosarie was really like a sunflower.

Saad returned her smile. "How are you doing, Rosarie?"

Rosarie's smile widened as she came closer, standing near Saad. Despite being inside the game as a 14-year-old, Saad noticed that they were almost the same height. Rosarie's petite frame and gentle, feminine demeanor were just as he remembered.

"I'm well, thank you, Kael," she replied softly. "It's good to see you again so soon."

Saad smiled at Rosarie and said, "I've come to pay for the Mist Walker set I purchased from you. I also brought some materials for sewing."

Rosarie clasped her hands in front of her, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Thank you so much, Kael. You truly are a remarkable young man."

Saad handed her 60 spheres, feeling a pang of regret as he did. "Here's the payment, as promised."

[You have completed the side quest 'Clearing the Payment']

 Ownership of the [Mistwalker's Ensemble] has been transferred to player Kael.

Familiarity with Rosarie has increased to friends.

Virtue Points: +2

EXP +100

Saad was surprised seeing the 100 experience points, since he didn't remember that being part of the rewards. He needed to check that later as well. Maybe they had fixed a bug or something in the update.

Rosarie nodded gently, looking genuinely touched. "You are a man of your word. The Mist Walker set is yours from now on."

Saad felt a bit relieved. "I'm glad to hear that. I hope the materials I brought will be useful to you as well." As Saad said that the small chests of material turned into silver dust, transferring to Rosarie.

[You have completed the quest 'the basics of Thread-1']

EXP +40

Quills +30

Rosarie smiled warmly. "They certainly will be. Thank you again for your kindness."

[Your 100% luck is in effect. A rare chance has been given to you.]

She suddenly seemed to remember something and elegantly ran back to the back room. When she returned, she held a small pouch in her hands. "This is for you," she said, handing it to Saad.

Saad took the pouch, surprised. "Thank you, Rosarie. What's this?"

"It's a little extra reward for your honesty and kindness," Rosarie explained, her smile warm and genuine.

Saad was cautious after the earlier message, wondering what Rosarie would give him. She handed him a small, weathered handkerchief.

"Saad, you remind me of my brother from back home," Rosarie said, a nostalgic look in her eyes. "I want you to have this as a memento."

Saad noticed she seemed a bit embarrassed by the handkerchief's condition. "It's a bit weathered, but it's an enhanced item and can heal wounds at least five times," she explained quickly.

Saad was shocked and quickly checked the specifications.

[Brother's Benediction] 

Description: This weathered handkerchief carries the blessings of Rosarie's priestly brother. Imbued with ancient healing magic, it can heal wounds, each use a testament to the brother's enduring faith and love. 

Durability: 5/100 

Rank: Unique 

Type: Handkerchief 

-Effects- 

HP +250

"Rosarie, this is incredible," Saad said, looking up at her. "Thank you so much."

Rosarie smiled warmly. "You're welcome, Kael. Take care of yourself out there."

Saad was utterly shocked by the item, nearly forgetting that it might trigger a hidden quest. As he marveled at the handkerchief, a new message appeared before him.

[Would you like to restore 'Brother's Benediction' by using the Fae's Fidelity scissors?]

 [Hidden Quest Unlocked: Brother's Benediction]

Description: Rosarie's brother, a priest of old, has been missing for years. Discover his fate and return with news to Rosarie.

-Quest Details- 

Find Rosarie's brother or uncover what happened to him

Restore Brother's Benediction and give it to Rosarie

Difficulty: B 

Rewards:

Unique Item Enhancement chest

Experience Points +1500

Quills +100

'This....This was a joke, right?'