Capítulo 9: A New Adventure
The sun's warm rays caressed the park, birds sang merrily, and the air was crisp and fresh as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened.
"It's like they never existed," Zeke whispered, eyes wide in disbelief. The System had indeed restored the park to its former tranquility, erasing all traces of the immortal's presence.
"Impressive, isn't it?" The System's voice held a hint of pride. "A simple manipulation of reality. I erased their traces and the memories of any witnesses. No one will remember the immortal's visit."
"You're something else, you know that?" Zeke chuckled, shaking his head. "So, what now? Lila's gone, and I can't exactly follow her to this other realm."
"Indeed, I can feel that her existence in this realm has been erased. It's as if she never existed in this realm. It is probably the work of that immortal."
"Her existence, wiped clean," Zeke muttered, his eyes narrowing. "But why? And where did they take her?"
"Calm yourself, Zeke. We will find her," the System reassured. "In the meantime, I have a new feature to unveil—an inventory. It will allow you to store items and access them at will. Think of it as your very own portable storage."
"An inventory, huh?" Zeke's eyes lit up. "Like those in the games I used to play? I could store weapons, items, maybe even snacks?"
"Indeed, and more. It can accommodate a vast array of items, and you may access them with a mere thought. I will demonstrate."
Zeke felt a tug at his mind, and suddenly, a vision appeared before him. He saw a vast, empty space, like an infinite void. Floating in the center was a simple wooden box, its surface smooth and unadorned.
"This is your inventory. For now, it is empty, awaiting the treasures you will fill it with. To store an item, simply will it, and it shall be done."
Zeke grinned. "Let's test it out." He focused his attention on a nearby tree, willing a branch to detach and appear in his inventory. In a flash, the branch vanished from the tree, and he felt a corresponding weight in his mind.
"Impressive! It feels like I've just worked out a muscle I never knew I had." Zeke's eyes sparkled with excitement as he turned to the System. "What else can this inventory do?"
"Much, my host. You can categorize and organize items, and even create folders within it. Think of it as a vast library where you are the librarian. You decide how to shelve each item."
"A library, huh? So, I can have a section for weapons, another for snacks, and maybe a hidden stash for... well, you know, secret stuff." Zeke's grin grew wider at the thought.
"Indeed, the organization is entirely up to you. You may also name each item and assign it a specific location within your inventory. For example, you could name that branch 'Oak Club' and place it in the 'Weapons' section."
"Oak Club, huh?" Zeke examined the branch, giving it a practice swing. "Fits its name. I could probably knock out a few demons with this bad boy." He swung it again, whooshing through the air.
Zeke began to explore the park, searching for items to add to his inventory. He plucked a few ripe berries and stored them, naming them 'Energy Boosts'. He found a smooth stone and named it 'Skipper' after his favorite game. "This one's for luck," he said with a smile.
The System observed with amusement, occasionally offering suggestions. "That flower, for example, could be useful. Its petals can be brewed into a soothing tea, and its essence can enhance the effects of certain healing pills."
"A healing pill enhancer, you say?" Zeke plucked the flower and studied it. "What do I name this beauty?"
"Perhaps 'Elixir's Kiss'?" the System suggested.
"Perfect!" Zeke stored the flower with a smile. "This inventory is already proving to be quite useful. I feel like a walking armory."
"Indeed, and there is more. You can also store entire outfits and change your appearance at will. For example, you could store that fine suit of armor you acquired and don it instantly when needed."
Zeke's eyes lit up at the mention of the suit of armor. "You mean I can be a knight in shining armor whenever I want? Sign me up!"
He quickly located the suit of armor he had taken from a defeated foe and stored it in his inventory. "Let's give it a shot." With a thought, he willed the armor to envelop him, and in an instant, he felt the weight of the metal plates. He struck a heroic pose, his golden eyes shining with delight. "How do I look?"
"Like a true knight," the System replied, a hint of amusement in its voice. "You can also store different outfits for various occasions. A stealthy rogue's garb, a wise wizard's robes, or even a simple farmer's attire."
"The possibilities are endless!" Zeke exclaimed, his excitement building. "I could be a different person every day, or even surprise my enemies with a sudden change of appearance." Zeke's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Now, that's what I call a party trick."
"Your enthusiasm is... contagious," the System remarked, a hint of amusement in its voice. "But remember, while this inventory is indeed a powerful tool, it has its limitations. The total weight and volume of items you can store are finite, and you must be mindful of the energy costs associated with storing and retrieving larger or more complex objects."
"Ah, so there's a catch," Zeke said, his tone playful. "But I suppose that's fair. Can't go around storing entire castles and whatnot. Though, I must admit, the idea of having a portable castle is rather tempting."
The System chuckled. "Indeed, a portable castle would be quite the statement. But for now, let us focus on the tools at hand. Your inventory will grow and evolve as you progress on your journey. You will acquire rare artifacts, powerful weapons, and perhaps even legendary treasures that will aid you in ways we can only imagine."
"Legendary treasures, you say?" Zeke's eyes gleamed with excitement. "Now we're talking! I can't wait to fill this inventory with all sorts of wonders. It's like having my very own adventure toolkit."
Zeke's steps carried him towards the market, his eyes keenly observing his surroundings. The bustling streets of Wysteria were alive with activity, merchants shouting their wares and the lively chatter of townspeople going about their daily lives. The sights and sounds filled his senses, a stark contrast to the tranquil park he had just left.
"Ah, the market," he said, his eyes lighting up. "A place where one can find just about anything. And today, I'm on the hunt for something special."
The System's voice echoed in his mind. "Your training requires sustenance, and what better place to find an array of delicacies than here?"
"Indeed," Zeke replied, his mouth already watering at the thought of the treats that awaited him. "I plan to stock up on enough food to fuel my cultivation and keep me going strong."
As he weaved through the crowded streets, Zeke's eyes darted from stall to stall, taking in the colorful displays of fruits, vegetables, and exotic spices. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of sizzling meat from a nearby food cart.
"Over here, young warrior!" called a jovial merchant, his arms wide as he gestured to a table laden with ripe, juicy fruits. "Fuel your adventures with the sweetest treats Wysteria has to offer!"
Zeke's steps slowed as he approached the stall, his eyes scanning the array of mouthwatering offerings. "Well, well," he said, a grin spreading across his face, "I think I've died and gone to foodie heaven. What treats do you have for a hungry cultivator like myself?"
The merchant, a rotund man with a bushy beard and a wide smile, rubbed his hands together gleefully. "Only the finest, my friend! Fresh from the orchards and farms of Wysteria. Sweet berries to energize your mornings, juicy apples to keep the doctor away, and exotic fruits from far-off lands that will tantalize your taste buds."
"Exotic fruits, you say?" Zeke's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Now, that's what I'm talking about. I'll take 10 pounds of those berries, 20 of the apples, and let's see..." He paused, eyeing a particularly unusual-looking fruit with a spiky outer shell. "What is that one?"
"Ah, you have an eye for the rare and delicious," the merchant said, his voice lowering conspiratorially. "That, my friend, is a Thunderfruit. It's said to contain a burst of lightning within. Eating it will electrify your senses and give you a boost of energy like no other."
"A burst of lightning, huh?" Zeke's interest was piqued. "I've never heard of anything like it. How much for all of those?"
The merchant's eyes glinted with a shrewd light. "For you, my friend, a special price. 10 gold coins for all of five Thunderfruits. It's a bargain, I tell you!"
Zeke grinned, tossing a sack of coins to the merchant. "I'm glad you're so reasonable." His hand darted out, snatching all Thunderfruits and popping them into his inventory. "If this is as tasty as you say, I'll be sure to come back and stock up when I return."
This time, Zeke went to find a suitable weapon.
"You need at least a rank 3 weapon which corresponds to the foundation establishment realm. Any rank below that and the weapon will simply shatter with your strength." The system explained.
Zeke nodded, examining the nearby merchants. "Where should I look for weapons? The armor shop, maybe? I did pick up a decent piece of armor, but it's not exactly top quality."
"You're right to look there. Armor shops often carry a wide range of weapons, and some of the weapons there will have an effect on your growth. Many of them are also crafted with techniques that enhance your cultivation."
Zeke nodded. "Let's give it a try." He weaved through the throng, eventually finding his way to the armor shop. He peered inside, surveying the vast array of weaponry.
"Welcome, young warrior! Come in, come in!" The store owner greeted Zeke cheerfully, gesturing to a wide selection of weaponry. "Looking for something special, I assume? What can I help you with?"
Zeke grinned. "I need a rank 3 weapon, a blade would be preferred!"
The merchant's eyes lit up, his face filling with interest. "I know just the thing. Come, follow me." He led Zeke towards a rack of weapons, all finely crafted with elegant lines and sleek surfaces. "What kind of weapon are you interested in?"
Zeke paused, scrutinizing the assortment of blades before him. His eyes settled on a slim dagger, its surface smooth and gleaming.
"This one." He snatched it from the rack and inspected it. The blade was made of a shining, silver-colored metal, with an intricate design etched into its surface. "What is this made of?"
The merchant grinned. "A special alloy. It's stronger and lighter than other weapons. And best of all, it does not shatter with your level of cultivation. Many of our customers have commented on the elegance and quality of the blade."
Zeke studied the weapon with interest, noting the weight of it in his hand. "I'll take it."
He placed it in his inventory and turned to the merchant. "So, what now? Does this mean I'm done with shopping?"
"That was simply a formality," the System replied. "Your training requires cultivation pills. It will require many of them in order to cultivate to the required realm, so you must stock up."
Zeke nodded. "I was hoping you'd say that." He walked through the crowded street, making his way towards the next shop. "Can't wait to see what kind of treasures I find there."
Zeke grinned, excitement building within him. He could sense the pill shop nearby, the tantalizing aromas of spices and exotic herbs wafting through the air.
As Zeke neared the entrance, a man clad in a gray robe suddenly appeared in his path, causing Zeke to stumble. He raised his hands in apology, muttering an apology.
The man gave Zeke a nod, before turning towards the pill shop and entering.
Zeke watched him enter the shop before turning and walking inside.
"Welcome to the Pill Shop! How may I help you?" The proprietor's voice echoed from somewhere within.
Zeke stepped inside, eyes gleaming as he took in the myriad of herbs, pills, and elixirs that filled the store. His eyes fell on the proprietor, a young woman with flowing blonde hair and gentle blue eyes.
"What is your desire, young warrior?" The proprietor's smile was gentle as she regarded Zeke, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Pills to feed your cultivation or perhaps something more... recreational?"
The proprietor nodded. "This way, please. Your items first, then we will discuss your order."
She led Zeke to the counter, where he placed a sack of gold coins. "I require a large quantity of these pills." Zeke explained.
The proprietor's eyes lit up. "Many orders today? That is most excellent! We will be able to supply you with what you require."
She led him deeper into the shop, where she reached beneath the counter and retrieved several bottles and pill tins. "Here you are, sir. You may take your pick of the pills."
Zeke examined the bottles, taking note of their contents. He took the bottles and placed them in his inventory, before turning to the proprietor.
After paying for the pills, he left the building and made his way to the exit of the city.
Zeke left Wysteria with a smile on his face.
Zeke strolled through the grassy hills, relishing the sensation of the soft blades brushing against his skin. The cool air caressed his skin, and the sun's warm rays bathed him in their radiance.
The scene reminded Zeke of his short adventure with Lila. He recalled their entire adventure from the cave all the way to the city park.
Zeke shook his head at the memory, chuckling.
He soon reached the entrance of the forest.
Zeke stood before the vast, dense forest, the trees towering over him like silent sentinels. The air was filled with the sounds of birds chirping and insects buzzing.
He took a deep breath, the fresh, earthy smell filling his lungs.
He stepped forward, his eyes scanning the surroundings for signs of danger.
He entered the forest, his heart racing as he ventured into the unknown.
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