Chapter 29: The Ironblood Covenant
A new wave of players gradually began arriving at the entrance to the Abandoned Mines. As they approached, they were met with a surprising sight: a lone Paladin, calmly and efficiently cutting down elite monsters with massive health pools.
That Paladin was none other than Ryan.
Now at level 9, Ryan had become increasingly comfortable fighting in this area. His health had climbed to 489, and he moved with a confidence that came from experience—and a growing advantage in gear. After slaying a hefty number of Bone Miners, he’d collected several pieces of solid equipment tailored for his class.
He now wore a pair of Military Plate Shorts, a level 7 item that granted +1 Strength and +1 Stamina—small bonuses, but significant for a Paladin at this stage. The leg armor’s defensive value alone nearly matched an entire set of standard gear.
He’d also picked up an Infantry Bracer, which added another +1 Stamina, pushing his health to an impressive 509.
The difference these green-quality items made was noticeable. The armor not only increased his attributes but provided physical damage reduction, dulling the Bone Miners’ attacks considerably. Where their hits once landed for 130 to 140 damage, they now struck for only 115 to 120. Even two consecutive critical hits weren’t enough to seriously endanger him anymore.
In his inventory, he had more to show for his grind: a cloth chest piece with +1 Stamina and +1 Intellect—something he planned to give to his sister once she logged back in. There was also a green-quality dagger and a pair of leather boots he didn’t need. He’d trade those in the Goldmine Town market for gear better suited to his class.
Just as he finished off another Bone Miner, Ryan spotted a small group of players approaching from the edge of the misty terrain. Judging by their pace and direction, they had likely followed a quest trail here—probably some obscure hint buried in the game’s lore.
They had the air of experienced players, ones who specialized in uncovering hidden or rare content. Compared to them, Ryan’s instincts for PvE weren’t exactly sharp—but he didn’t mind. He was known for PvP. Strategy, team fights, duels—that was his arena. Finding obscure quests? That was someone else’s game.
"Featherlight?"
A voice called out hesitantly.