Quality: Light Green
Effect: Heals 30 HP over 30 seconds. More effective when processed into medicine.
Note: A rare find! A good boi would turn this in and get praised... a smart man would keep it to save his life!
Alex cringes at the system’s sarcastic note but can’t help but agree. He has no intention of turning this herb in. With his 50 HP, this herb could heal more than half of his health. Only a fool would throw away such a potentially life-saving item for a few contribution points. Alex might be greedy, but even he knows when to prioritize survival over points. He stuffs the herb into his pocket, comforted by the thought that he now has a safety net in case things go south.
“I’ll keep it. Maybe I’ll trade it later, but for now, I need every advantage I can get,” he decides, feeling much more secure.
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, Alex can’t help but wonder how anyone could possibly earn 10,000 contribution points. He has been productive all day and has only managed 350 points. Even his heroic act from the night before had only netted him 1000 points. The realization hits him that achieving that much would require taking risks, perhaps far greater risks than he’s willing to entertain.
After a quick rest, the players gather once more at the village center to prepare for the night watch. The southern palisade is their responsibility again, and they take up their positions.
As expected, the night passes without incident. The attack from the night before had been an anomaly, and Baroque Works, it seems, isn’t going to launch another raid so soon.
“Nothing to report,” Alex thinks, half-relieved, half-bored. “Another quiet night.”
The next day follows much like the one before it. Alex gathers more supplies and completes tasks around the village, earning an additional 400 contribution points.
By now, Alex is settling into the routine of village life. It’s a hard life, but it’s oddly satisfying. There’s a simple rhythm to it, work during the day, defend during the night. He hasn’t felt this free in years. No endless hours spent in front of a computer screen, no toxic forum posts, no aimless existence. For once, he has a purpose.
Thato has become a solid friend. They share stories, Thato’s tales of growing up in South Africa a stark contrast to Alex’s own experiences in Europe. Alex can’t help but feel admiration for the man. Despite their wildly different backgrounds, they both seem to appreciate this fresh start the Fantasy Realm has offered them.
Even the other players are starting to warm up. The atmosphere in the village has become lighter, more cooperative. Roja, who had previously been standoffish, begins asking Alex more about the world of One Piece, though she still manages to keep her air of superiority.
But with half the mission already completed and only one traitor eliminated, there’s a cautious optimism hanging in the air.
“We’ve made it this far. Just a few more nights,” Alex thinks, feeling a sense of unity among the players. We can do this.
As the third night approaches, Alex returns to his position on the palisade. Another uneventful night would be perfect for him; he could catch a little sleep again, maybe just enough to keep him sharp for the next day’s grind.
However, just as he’s getting comfortable, a blood-curdling scream shatters the silence.
"ENEMY ATTACK! ENEMY ATTACK! HELP!!!!"
The shout echoes through the village, sending a chill down Alex’s spine.
“So much for a quiet night…” he thinks, his heart pounding as he grips his bow, ready for whatever comes next.