Chapter 34: The Unseen Impact

Sam and Nitin stood in the dimly lit room, facing the shadowy figure who had just entered. The air was thick with tension and curiosity.

"My name is not important," the figure said, stepping into the light. His face was weathered, with eyes that spoke of many battles fought and secrets kept. "What matters is that I have information that can help you defeat Roy."

Nitin's eyes narrowed. "We don't have time for riddles. Who are you, and how do you know about our situation?"

The man smiled slightly. "Let's just say I'm someone who has been watching the events unfold. I know what Roy is capable of and what you are up against."

Sam glanced at Nitin, who nodded. "Alright," Sam said, turning back to the man. "Tell us what you know."

The man stepped closer, lowering his voice. "Roy has a network of spies and informants all over Durinia. He knew about your plan to save the widow and her daughter, which is why he had you transferred to the central jail. But there is a way to undermine his power."

Sam listened intently, his mind racing. "What do you suggest?"

The man laid out a detailed plan, involving gathering allies from within the city and creating a diversion to draw Roy's attention away from their true objective. Sam and Nitin exchanged a glance, recognizing the potential in his strategy.

"We need to move quickly," Nitin said, his voice resolute. "Let's get the widow and her daughter to safety first."

With the plan in place, Sam and Nitin made their way back to the house where the two women were being held. The women had been unconscious the entire time, but Sam was confident they would be safe once they were back in their own world.

"Help me with them," Sam said, as they gently carried the women to a secluded spot. He concentrated, opening the portal to Pushp Lok. The familiar glow enveloped them, and in a matter of seconds, they were safely transported back to Earth.

Nitin checked on the women's condition, his brow furrowing with concern. "They're fine, just unconscious. They should wake up soon."

Sam nodded, relieved. "Good. We need to part ways temporarily. I have some things to take care of on Earth."

Nitin clasped Sam's shoulder. "Be careful. We'll regroup soon."

With a final nod, Sam stepped through the portal, returning to Earth. As he emerged, he felt the familiar rush of relief and the grounding sensation of being back home. He checked the date and realized how much time had passed.

"Pushp, give me an update on the current sales," Sam said, his voice steady.

Pushp's voice resonated in his mind. "The sales of honey and other products from Pushp Lok have been steady. The demand is growing, and we are making significant progress."

Sam smiled. "That's good to hear. Open my attribute panel."

The holographic panel appeared before him, displaying his various attributes. His eyes were drawn to his Welfare Value, which had increased significantly since he last checked. 

Welfare Value: 10,000

Sam's heart swelled with excitement. "I can't believe it. It increased by 10,000! Let's see where these increases came from."

He scrolled through the list of events that had contributed to his Welfare Value:

- Helping the villagers in battle: +3,000

- Healing injured villagers: +2,000

- Rescuing the widow and her daughter: +2,500

- Selling honey produced in Pushp Lok: +2,500

Sam's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Even selling honey can generate Welfare Value?"

Pushp's voice was calm and explanatory. "As long as what you do benefits others, it will generate Welfare Value, irrespective of whether it benefits you as well."

Sam nodded, absorbing the information. "That makes sense. It's all about the positive impact on others."

Feeling a renewed sense of purpose, Sam decided to visit everyone he cared about, both humans and animals. He wanted to share his joy and see how they were doing.

His first stop was Mrs. Jenkins, the elderly lady who lived down the street. She had always been kind to Sam, offering him advice and home-cooked meals.

"Mrs. Jenkins," Sam greeted warmly as he knocked on her door.

The door creaked open, and Mrs. Jenkins beamed at him. "Sam, dear! Come in, come in."

They sat down in her cozy living room, filled with the aroma of freshly baked cookies. "How have you been?" Sam asked, genuinely concerned.

"Oh, you know, keeping busy with my garden and my knitting," she replied, her eyes twinkling. "And you, Sam? You look different. Happier."

Sam smiled. "I've been working on some projects that are really making a difference."

They talked for a while, sharing stories and laughter. Before leaving, Sam promised to visit more often, and Mrs. Jenkins gave him a plate of cookies to take home.

Next, Sam visited his friend Alex, who had always been there for him through thick and thin. They met at their favorite café, catching up over coffee.

"Sam, you look like you've found a new lease on life," Alex remarked, taking a sip of his coffee.

"I have," Sam replied, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "I've discovered a way to make a real impact, and it's been incredible."

Alex listened intently as Sam shared his experiences, offering encouragement and support. It felt good to reconnect with his friend and share his journey.

From there, Sam made his way to the animal shelter where he often volunteered. The moment he walked in, the dogs and cats perked up, recognizing their friend.

"Hey there, buddies!" Sam greeted, kneeling down to pet a group of dogs that had gathered around him.

The shelter manager, Lisa, approached with a smile. "Sam, it's great to see you. The animals have missed you."

"I've missed them too," Sam replied, scratching behind the ears of a particularly excited dog. "How can I help today?"

Sam spent the afternoon feeding, playing with, and caring for the animals. He felt a deep sense of fulfillment, knowing that his actions were making a difference in their lives.

As the day drew to a close, Sam returned home, his heart full. He reflected on all the events that had increased his Welfare Value and the impact he had made on those around him. Each interaction, each act of kindness, had contributed to his journey.

Just as he was about to settle in for the night, Pushp's voice resonated in his mind again. "Sam, there is something you need to see."

Sam's curiosity was piqued. "What is it, Pushp?"

"Check the attribute panel again," Pushp instructed.

Sam opened the panel, and his eyes widened as he saw a new notification.

New Mission: The Hidden Guardian

Objective: Protect the vulnerable in Durinia and uncover the secrets of the abyssal threat.

Sam felt a surge of determination. This new mission was more important than ever, and he knew he had to rise to the challenge. The fate of Durinia and its people depended on it.

As he prepared for what lay ahead, Sam couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The journey was far from over, and he was ready to face whatever came next.

### To Be Continued...