Chapter 43: August's Upgraded Equipment
Year 0003, Month XI-XII: The Imperium
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Day 141-143: Downtime Inside the Villa
The final month of the year had arrived, bringing with it a winter cold so powerful that it seemed to seep into one's very bones. The harsh weather provided August with the perfect excuse to retreat from his relentless training regimen and focus on something equally important—upgrading his combat equipment through his SYSTEM. This period of respite would also allow him to examine his newly acquired high-level skill, a prospect that filled him with both curiosity and anticipation.
The timing couldn't have been more fortuitous. August had been methodically collecting materials in his magical item pouch and storing reserves in his warehouse back home, preparing for exactly this moment. The thought of what his SYSTEM would utilize to enhance his current equipment sparked his imagination, though he harbored hopes that the upgrades would result in something exceptionally strong and durable—equipment worthy of the battles that lay ahead.
After several days of allowing his body the proper rest it desperately needed, the moment of revelation finally arrived. The armor and equipment he had requested to be remade was complete, delivered through an item chest that materialized inside his room accompanied by the familiar notification sound that resonated within his mind. The anticipation had been building for days, and now, after finishing his morning meal, he made his way directly to his quarters to inspect the new contents that awaited him.
The chest sat prominently in the center of his room, its polished surface reflecting the morning light that streamed through the windows. August approached with a mixture of excitement and reverence, understanding that what lay within would likely define his capabilities for the foreseeable future. His hands trembled slightly as he reached for the lid, knowing that this moment would mark a significant milestone in his journey.
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Accessories and Equipment Upgrades
**ACCESSORIES**
[CLASS V - MASTER - AUGUST'S CUSTOM MADE PREDATOR AMULET]
The first item to catch August's attention was a truly magnificent amulet, its presence immediately commanding respect and admiration. This powerful artifact represented craftsmanship of the highest order, its estimated value easily convertible to at least 1,000 Imperial Orichalcum Coins on the black market—a sum that spoke volumes about its intrinsic worth and rarity.
The amulet had been expertly crafted using materials from the most formidable beasts August had previously defeated or encountered in combat throughout his perilous journey. Its surface displayed a unique, smooth texture composed of different colored hues, each representing the various types of Beast Mana Cores that had been seamlessly combined during its creation. The interplay of colors created a mesmerizing effect that seemed to pulse with contained power.
The previous iteration had contained four beast mana cores, but this upgraded version now incorporated six cores, including two from Boss Ranked Beasts. While August had previously given the actual boss rank mana cores to his master Aetherwing as tokens of respect and gratitude, his SYSTEM had maintained detailed data copies of their essence. This preserved information had been utilized to create this remarkable accessory upgrade, ensuring that none of the accumulated power was lost in the process.
The amulet's primary function extended beyond mere enhancement of his overall physical capabilities—it specifically addressed his most significant weakness: mana capacity and recovery. The inclusion of two Boss Rank beast cores provided exactly the type of enhancement he needed to bridge this critical gap in his abilities.
[STATS]:
+250 TO ALL STAT ATTRIBUTES
[SUB-STATS]:
+85% MP RECOVERY RATE
[COMBAT SUPPORT-STATS]:
- RESIST INVASION OF LOW TO HIGH TIER MENTAL SKILLS
[BODY STAT]:
+625 MP POINTS
[CLASS V - MASTER - AUGUST'S CUSTOM MADE HEALTH AND MANA CORE LEFT AND RIGHT RING]
The next items to emerge from the chest were a pair of rings that could only be described as masterpieces of craftsmanship. These extraordinary artifacts had been meticulously reforged by the magnanimous SYSTEM craftsman Admin Magnus, representing the culmination of all August's hard-won victories and the trials he had endured throughout his journey.
There are now two rings located on opposite hands. Each ring had been crafted from various mana cores of beasts—now including the mana cores of the two boss rank creatures he had previously encountered but which had been defeated by his master. Every core had been carefully selected and integrated to create a harmonious balance of raw power and refined control, ensuring that the wearer would experience no conflicting energies or unstable fluctuations.
The bands themselves consisted of smooth obsidian-black and deep red metal, shot through with intricate veins of crystalline mana that shifted color depending on the ambient light conditions. This chromatic display created an ever-changing visual spectacle that was both beautiful and intimidating. When worn, the rings felt like natural extensions of his body, warm to the touch and somehow alive with dormant potential energy waiting to be unleashed at a moment's notice.
The craftsmanship was so refined that the rings seemed to respond to August's emotional state, pulsing gently when he was calm and glowing more intensely during moments of heightened alertness or combat readiness.
[STATS]:
+250 TO ALL STAT ATTRIBUTES (×2)
[SUB-STATS]:
+85% HP RECOVERY RATE
+85% MP RECOVERY RATE
**[COMBAT SUPPORT-STATS]:**
- RETAINED AND IMPROVED RING STATS AND EFFECT - SHARED HP AND MP RECOVERY RATE WITH PARTY MEMBERS: When overall HP AND MP of the party reaches 50%, automatically activates and heals everyone within a 150-meter radius from the host, with a rate of +85% for 5 minutes. Can now be used once a week.
[BODY STATS]:
+625 HP POINTS
+625 MP POINTS
[CLASS V - MASTER - AUGUST'S CUSTOM MADE PREDATOR MASK]
The final accessory was perhaps the most psychologically devastating piece of August's growing collection—a menacing bestial visage that provided both tangible protection and formidable psychological warfare capabilities. This intimidating mask had the remarkable ability to make every being weaker than its host tremble in instinctive fear upon witnessing it. August had personally observed this terrifying effect during recent encounters, watching as opponents' confidence crumbled before the battle had even begun.
The mask seemed to amplify his natural predator's presence, transforming him from merely dangerous to absolutely terrifying. This transformation had earned him the nickname the "Blurred Devil" among those who had witnessed his combat prowess while wearing the mask. The psychological impact was often as effective as any physical weapon, causing enemies to make critical mistakes or hesitate at crucial moments.
Crafted from the skull fragments of his most formidable opponents and reinforced with mystical alloys of unknown origin, the mask bore intricate carvings that told the story of each hard-fought victory. These etchings weren't merely decorative—they served as a visual chronicle of his journey, each line and curve representing a moment of triumph over seemingly insurmountable odds.
When worn, the mask felt like donning the very essence of the hunt itself, connecting the wearer to primal instincts that had been honed through countless battles. The psychological effect on August himself was equally significant, as the mask seemed to unlock deeper levels of his combat potential.
[STATS]:
+250 TO ALL STAT ATTRIBUTES
[SUB-STATS]:
+625 HP
+625 MP
+625 ATTACK
+625 DEFENSE
+85% DAMAGE INCREASE when faced against a much stronger opponent
[COMBAT SUPPORT-STATS]:
+85% FEAR on all entities below master category and boss rank
[EXPERT - CLASS V - AETHERWING'S MAGICAL ITEM POUCH]
The final accessory was a storage solution that represented both practical utility and profound sentimental value. This extraordinary item pouch had been crafted by the magnificent Aetherwing with invaluable assistance from August's SYSTEM, utilizing one of Aetherwing's own precious feathers combined with carefully selected hides and leather from beasts August had previously hunted and defeated.
This remarkable storage device served as Aetherwing's parting gift to his ward, symbolizing the deep bond that had formed between master and student. The pouch wasn't merely a container—it was a testament to their relationship and a practical tool that would continue to serve August long after their paths had diverged.
The craftsmanship was extraordinary, with every stitch and enchantment carefully placed to ensure maximum functionality while maintaining the aesthetic beauty that reflected Aetherwing's refined taste. The pouch seemed to respond to August's touch, opening more readily for him than it would for any other potential user.
[SUPPORT STAT:]
- 265-capacity item slot sub-space storage
- (Expanded dimensional storage capabilities)
- 210 stackable items per slot
- (Enhanced organization capacity for similar items)
- Alerts the creator when the owner faces mortal danger
- Emergency notification system connecting to Aetherwing
- Accessible only to the designated owner
- Advanced security enchantment preventing unauthorized access
*Items of the same type could be stacked together efficiently, maximizing storage potential. For example, if August possessed a stack of Boarat meat, the maximum stack capacity was 20 pieces, occupying only one subspace slot of his expanded capacity limit. The upgrade system provided additional benefits with each advancement: Novice +5, Advance +10, Expert +15, Master +20, and Grand Master +25 additional spaces, while increasing maximum stack capacity by 10 with each improvement.*
**COMBAT ARMOR:**
[CLASS V - MASTER - AUGUST'S CUSTOM MADE "GUARDIAN" (RARE) ARMOR SET]
The centerpiece of August's defensive equipment arsenal was undoubtedly his significantly upgraded armor set, a masterwork that represented the evolution of his previous [CLASS V - EXPERT - COMMANDER AND HUNTER "GUARDIAN" (RARE) ARMOR SET]. This new iteration incorporated premium materials that told the story of his recent victories and growth as a warrior.
The armor now featured premium hide and leather materials harvested from the Veteran and Commander Grimfang, and the Commander Skitterpigs. The resilient outer shell of the Scythe Stalker had been integrated alongside the virtually impenetrable scales of the Arborwyrm. The newest and most impressive addition came from the thick outer carapace armor of the Armored Arachnid Queen, which his master Aetherwing had defeated in a display of power that still filled August with pride.
All of these materials had been strategically distributed across the six cardinal armor pieces: head, torso, left arm, right arm, left leg, and right leg. Each component had been carefully designed to work in harmony with the others, creating a unified defensive system that was greater than the sum of its parts.
The transformation perfectly reflected August's own evolution as a combatant, with the new upgrades designed to complement his growing needs during increasingly challenging battles. The aesthetic had changed dramatically from his previous armor—where once his equipment only spoke of stealth and woodland prowess, it now commanded respect and instilled fear in equal measure.
The durable and superior scales of the Arborwyrm had been interwoven with the Armored Arachnid's outer carapace, creating a protective layer that covered each part of his body. These primary defensive elements were interlocked using the Armored Arachnid's incredibly strong steel-like silky web, creating a flexible yet impenetrable barrier. The essential elements of the Scythe Stalker's exoskeleton brought the overall durability, versatility, and flexibility to unprecedented levels.
Beneath this formidable outer shell lay a comfortable inner layer made of leather from the Commander Boarat, combined with the silky thread webbing of the Armored Arachnid. This inner layer provided climate control and comfort during extended wear. The hooded cape, crafted from the hide of the powerful seasoned Veteran and Commander Grimfang, completed the ensemble with both practical and aesthetic appeal.
Despite appearing thick and heavy to observers, the armor moved with August as if it were an integral part of his body. The advanced materials and expert craftsmanship had resulted in a defensive system that enhanced rather than hindered his natural movements. The armor represented a perfect fusion of full plate and armored scale hybrid design, protecting vulnerable joint areas while maintaining the flexibility necessary for combat effectiveness.
The gaps between armored sections were protected by the strong and sturdy steel-like silky thread armor that sat between the tiny gaps of the hybrid full-plate scaled armor and the comfortable leather and silk clothing worn underneath. This multi-layered approach left no exploitable gaps, creating a comprehensive defensive system that could withstand even the most determined assault.
The helmet deserved special mention for its comfort and exceptional defensive capabilities. Crafted from the same premium materials as the rest of the armor, it provided complete head protection while maintaining clear vision and unrestricted hearing and breathing. The integration with his existing mask created additional tactical options for different combat scenarios.
[STATS (×6 for each piece: HEAD, TORSO, LEFT ARM, RIGHT ARM, LEFT LEG, RIGHT LEG)]:
+250 TO ALL STAT ATTRIBUTES (×6) = 1,500 total
[SUB-STATS (×6 for each piece)]:
+625 ATTACK (×6) = 3,750 total
+625 MAGICAL ATTACK (×6) = 3,750 total
+625 DEFENSE (×6) = 3,750 total
+625 MAGICAL DEFENSE (×6) = 3,750 total
+85% HP AND MP RECOVERY
+85% DAMAGE INCREASE (ATTACK)
+85% DAMAGE NEGATION (DEFENSE)
+85% STEALTH
+85% CRITICAL CHANCE
+85% CRITICAL DAMAGE
+85% AMBUSH CHANCE
+85% AMBUSH DAMAGE
[BODY STATS]:
+625 HEALTH POINTS (×6) = 3,750 total
+625 MANA POINTS (×6) = 3,750 total
[COMBAT SUPPORT-STATS]:
-85% ARMOR WEIGHT REDUCTION
[ADDITIONAL STATISTICS AND SUB-STATISTICS WHEN FULL ARMOR SET IS FULLY EQUIPPED:]
[STATS (×6 for each piece: HEAD, TORSO, LEFT ARM, RIGHT ARM, LEFT LEG, RIGHT LEG)]:
+250 TO ALL STAT ATTRIBUTES (×6) = 1,500 total
[SUB-STATS (×6 for each piece)]:
+625 ATTACK (×6) = 3,750 total
+625 MAGICAL ATTACK (×6) = 3,750 total
+625 DEFENSE (×6) = 3,750 total
+625 MAGICAL DEFENSE (×6) = 3,750 total
+85% HP AND MP RECOVERY
+85% DAMAGE INCREASE (ATTACK)
+85% DAMAGE NEGATION (DEFENSE)
+85% STEALTH
+85% CRITICAL CHANCE
+85% CRITICAL DAMAGE
+85% AMBUSH CHANCE
+85% AMBUSH DAMAGE
[BODY STATS]:
+625 HEALTH POINTS (×6) = 3,750 total
+625 MANA POINTS (×6) = 3,750 total
[COMBAT SUPPORT-STATS]:
-85% ARMOR WEIGHT REDUCTION
The armor's true potential was only realized when worn as a complete set, effectively doubling all individual bonuses and unlocking additional capabilities connected to his master and Guardian Beast Aetherwing. This synergistic effect transformed August into a formidable force on any battlefield.
**EQUIPMENT EXCLUSIVE RETAINED AND UPGRADED ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SKILLS:**
[CLASS V - EXPERT - BESTIAL RAGE] (Mid-Tier ★★)]
An upgraded version of his previous ability, this skill now automatically activated when August's health dropped below 50%. By tapping into humanity's ancient animal instincts, he could release a powerful aura buff providing an 650% damage multiplier for five minutes, costing 200 MP per minute, turning desperate situations into opportunities for victory.
[SUB-STATS]:
+650% DAMAGE MULTIPLIER
-200 MP PER MINUTE
A/N: now an active skill with new stat effects
[FEAR THE BEAST]:
Due to the combination of predatory materials used in his equipment, enemies who encountered August felt intimidated by his presence, especially those he deemed as threats and those who harbored malicious intent toward him. This psychological warfare aspect often proved as effective as any physical weapon.
[COMBAT SUPPORT-STATS]:
+85% FEAR EFFECT
+PARALYZE OPPONENTS FOR 10 SECONDS WITHIN A 100 METER RADIUS
GUARDIAN BEAST (RARE) SET FEATURE:
- Unlocks 1-25% of the Guardian Beast's power (★★★★★)
- Gains access to low-high tier Guardian Beast Aetherwing's skill database
- Low Tier: Can use one low-tier skill twice per day
- Mid Tier: Can use one mid-tier skill once per week
- High Tier: Can use one high-tier skill once per month
**COMBAT EQUIPMENT:**
[CLASS V - MASTER - AUGUST'S CUSTOMIZED WEAPON SET]
August's newly reforged weapon collection represented the pinnacle of craftsmanship and battlefield engineering. Each weapon had been carefully designed to incorporate materials from both predator and semi-predator beasts, creating a comprehensive arsenal capable of handling any combat situation across all engagement ranges.
BOW AND ARROW:
The reforged bow stood as a masterpiece of engineering and artistry, carefully crafted from flexible yet incredibly sturdy forest wood. The weapon featured elegant Grimfang and Arborwyrm designs at each end, creating both aesthetic appeal and functional enhancement. The bow offered smooth handling and effortless string drawing, thanks to a specially crafted bowstring made from the new material that is a steel-like silky thread of the Armored Arachnid Queen, ensuring optimal tension and exceptional durability.
The arrows were equally impressive, featuring tips crafted from fangs and tusks of non-commander rank regular beasts, with specially made arrowheads that include hardened steel, attached to shafts made from the same quality wood as the bow itself. The fletching utilized naturally molted Peregrine Eagle chick feathers, ensuring enhanced accuracy and improved stability during flight.
[BOW SUB-STATS]:
+625 ATTACK
+85% ACCURACY
+85% (ATTACK) DAMAGE
+85% (CRITICAL) DAMAGE
+85% (AMBUSH) DAMAGE
[ARROW SUB-STATS]:
+625 ATTACK
+85% ACCURACY
+85% (ATTACK) DAMAGE
+85% (CRITICAL) DAMAGE
+85% (AMBUSH) DAMAGE
[COMBAT SUPPORT-STATS]:
-85% ARROW WEIGHT REDUCTION
QUIVERS (×2):
The quivers represented intricately designed storage solutions that combined aesthetic beauty with practical functionality. Each quiver could store 50 specialized arrows while reducing their overall weight by 85% when contained within. This innovative design ensured that August could carry substantial additional ammunition without being burdened, while the arrows remained secure even during high-speed combat maneuvers.
[COMBAT SUPPORT-STATS]:
-85% ARROW WEIGHT REDUCTION INSIDE QUIVER
BROAD SWORD AND SHIELD COMBINATION:
The evolution from his previous short sword to this new broad sword reflected August's physical growth and increased combat experience. The previous weapon was no longer viable for reach and effectiveness, as August had outgrown the dimensions that had once been perfectly suited to his younger physique.
The new broad sword combined traditional materials such as fangs and tusks from both Skitterpigs and Grimfangs, along with previous additions that include the Arborwyrm claws and the deadly K'tharr scythes. The newest is the Armored Arachnid's legs, the provided material that was even sharper and more durable than previous components. High-quality steel, melted down from collected weapons and equipment of the defeated Bloodhound and Kirin raiders, formed the blade's core structure.
The resulting 35-inch broad sword blade possessed increased adaptability for mana flow, making it devastatingly effective in both physical and magical combat scenarios. Intricate inscriptions along the blade's length were designed to amplify magical power and enhance skill effectiveness when used in conjunction with the sword.
The companion shield incorporated polished Arborwyrm scales, K'tharr exoskeleton, and the Armored Arachnid's superior carapace, significantly improving durability against both physical and magical attacks while maintaining lightweight properties. A comfortable leather strap allowed for convenient back storage when not in active use.
[SWORD AND SHIELD STATS:]
+250 TO ALL STAT ATTRIBUTES
[SWORD AND SHIELD SUB-STATS]:
+625 ATTACK
+625 DEFENSE
+85% DAMAGE NEGATED (DEFENSE)
+85% DAMAGE INCREASE (ATTACK)
[COMBAT SUPPORT-STATS]:
- Activates Shield Exclusive Active Skill [CLASS V - EXPERT - SHIELD BASH] (Low-Tier ★)] (+5 second STUN IN A 360° RADIUS WITHIN 10 METERS)
+85% (ATTACK) DAMAGE MULTIPLIER INCREASE (WHEN USED IN SWORD ONLY)
THROWING DAGGERS (×6), DAGGER (×2) AND SPEAR:
The daggers represented masterful craftsmanship, utilizing combined materials from Skitterpig and Grimfang fangs and tusks, enhanced with the more durable and deadly claws of the Arborwyrm. Each blade gleamed with an otherworldly sheen that spoke of their superior construction and magical enhancement.
The upgraded arsenal now included six throwing daggers strapped directly to the front chest armor for immediate access, while two additional daggers were secured to his legs for quick deployment during intense combat situations. The strategic placement ensured that August always had backup weapons within reach, regardless of his primary weapon's status.
A unique enchantment granted these weapons an automatic damage increase with each successfully thrown and landed dagger, reaching a maximum damage increase of 510% if all six daggers found their mark on a single enemy. This progressive damage system made them not only effective offensive weapons but also defensive tools that could dramatically alter the course of battle through strategic deployment.
The spear maintained the same exceptional quality and construction principles, now standing an impressive eight feet tall with a tip forged from melted Bloodhound weapons, Arborwyrm claws, K'tharr scythes, and the Armored Arachnid's legs. The fusion of these materials had created a weapon that was both incredibly sharp and highly effective at penetrating even the most heavily fortified armor. It now includes an additional spear that could be used primarily as a throwing weapon.
[SPEAR AND THROWING SPEAR SUB-STATS]:
+625 ATTACK (×2) (Total 1,250)
+85% ACCURACY
[COMBAT SUPPORT STAT]:
+85% INCREASED ARMOR PENETRATION
[DAGGER SUB-STATS]:
+625 ATTACK (×2) (Total 1,250)
[COMBAT SUPPORT STAT]:
+85% INCREASED BLEEDING EFFECT
[THROWING DAGGER SUB-STATS]:
+625 ATTACK (×6) (3,750 total)
+85% DAMAGE INCREASE (×6) (510% maximum damage stack)
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New Active Skill
Several days before receiving his upgraded equipment, August had already examined his newly acquired High Tier Skill. This ability seemed to further enhance his magical capabilities, complementing his existing skill set in ways that would prove invaluable in future encounters.
[CLASS V - EXPERT - PERSONAL MAGIC BUFF] (High-Tier ★★★)]
This skill represented a significant advancement in August's magical capabilities, designed to enhance the user's magical power output during combat situations. The ability to dramatically increase magical damage would prove invaluable when facing opponents who relied heavily on magical defenses or when dealing with multiple enemies simultaneously.
[SUB-STATS]:
+320% MAGICAL ATTACK DAMAGE MULTIPLIER
-500 MP PER MINUTE
The skill's effectiveness was immediately apparent, though its high mana consumption rate meant that August would need to use it strategically rather than as a constant enhancement. The balance between power and resource management would require careful consideration during combat planning.
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Final Assessment
After thoroughly scanning and analyzing everything about his current capabilities, August felt a deep sense of satisfaction and readiness. The comprehensive upgrades to his equipment, combined with his newly acquired skill, had transformed him into a significantly more formidable combatant than he had been just days before.
The integration of materials from increasingly powerful opponents told the story of his growth as a warrior, while the advanced craftsmanship of his SYSTEM ensured that each piece worked in perfect harmony with the others. The psychological impact of his new appearance, combined with the tangible improvements to his combat effectiveness, would serve him well in the challenges that lay ahead.
Unfortunately, the mysterious Mytherium metal had not been incorporated into this round of upgrades, suggesting that his SYSTEM blacksmith still required additional prerequisites before this legendary material could be utilized. However, the improvements achieved with the available materials were so substantial that August felt confident in his ability to handle whatever trials awaited him in the territory.
With his new powers discovered and his equipment upgraded to unprecedented levels, August was ready to face whatever challenges the harsh winter and the dangerous territory might present. The combination of his enhanced gear, improved skills, and growing experience had prepared him for the next phase of his journey, whatever that might entail.
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Information Panel
[SKILL PERCENTAGE STATS/SUB-STATS BASED FOR ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SKILLS]:
**LOW TIER:**
- Base Damage/Damage Negation Percentage +50%
- MP CONSUMPTION Rate: 100 MP PER MINUTE
**MID TIER:**
- Base Damage/Damage Negation Percentage +150%
- MP CONSUMPTION Rate: 200 MP PER MINUTE
**HIGH TIER:**
- Base Damage/Damage Negation Percentage +300%
- MP CONSUMPTION Rate: 500 MP PER MINUTE
**DIVINE TIER:**
- Base Damage/Damage Negation Percentage +500%
- MP CONSUMPTION Rate: 1,000 MP PER MINUTE
[WHEN RANK/CLASS IS INCLUDED IN A SKILL, DAMAGE & DAMAGE NEGATION ONLY]:
**NOVICE (CLASS 1-5):**
+20% damage/damage negation increase percentage base per class level
**ADVANCE (CLASS 1-5):**
+30% damage/damage negation increase percentage base per class level
**EXPERT (CLASS 1-5):**
+50% damage/damage negation increase percentage base per class level
**MASTER (CLASS 1-5):**
+75% damage/damage negation increase percentage base per class level
**GRAND MASTER (CLASS 1-5):**
+100% damage/damage negation increase percentage base per class level
A/N: Stackable with each tier, rank and class increase.