Chapter 19: Gearing up

The knowledge gleaned from the Tablet of Origins settled heavily upon Emile and Jin. The realization that "Beginning Of The Universe END" was not merely a game, but a meticulously crafted ark designed to weather a multiversal cycle of destruction, shifted their priorities. The carefree days of simply leveling up for enjoyment were replaced by a sense of urgency and a determined focus on preparation.

"So, we need to get stronger, huh?" Jin said, hefting his iron sword, which suddenly felt inadequate. "Think it's time to upgrade our gear?"

Emile nodded in agreement. "Our current equipment served us well during the trials, but if the convergence is as significant as the tablet suggests, we will need far more powerful tools at our disposal." He opened his inventory, the vast sum of Gold Coins still a stark reminder of his real-world investment. "My initial privileges should also include a specialized set of Mythical-rank equipment. I should see if I can access that now that I've completed the Awakening Trials."

He accessed his character interface and navigated to the "Rewards" section. There, a notification confirmed his eligibility. With a mental command, a set of exquisitely crafted gear materialized in his inventory. He examined the pieces: a sleek, dark-metal chestplate that seemed to absorb ambient light, matching greaves and gauntlets etched with intricate Void runes, a hooded cloak that shimmered with an otherworldly energy, and finally, a magnificent greatsword, its blade crafted from a dark, obsidian-like material that pulsed with raw Void power. Each piece radiated an aura of immense power.

"Incredible…" Jin breathed, watching as Emile's appearance transformed from a simple adventurer to a figure radiating potent energy.

Emile equipped the gear, feeling an immediate surge in his statistics. His Attack Power, Defense, and Void Resistance had skyrocketed. The greatsword, in particular, felt perfectly balanced in his hands, a conduit for his Voidblade abilities.

"Your investor perks certainly kicked in," Jin commented, a hint of envy in his voice. "That gear looks like it could take down a god."

"The investment was intended to provide an advantage," Emile replied pragmatically. "But powerful gear alone will not be enough. We need to hone our skills and learn more about the threats we might face."

"Right," Jin agreed. "While you're looking all decked out, I should probably see about getting some better warrior gear myself. Maybe that blacksmith in Oakhaven has something decent."

They decided to return to Oakhaven to address their immediate needs. Jin headed towards the blacksmith, while Emile decided to visit the virtual library again, hoping to find more information about the convergence and any specific threats they should be preparing for.

In the library, Emile spent hours poring over ancient texts and fragmented scrolls. He searched for mentions of the convergence, the shadows, and any strategies or weaknesses that might have been discovered by the fallen world. He learned more about the cyclical nature of the multiverse and the role of the shadows as a force of entropy, constantly seeking to consume and unravel reality. The ark, it seemed, was a desperate attempt to preserve not just life, but the potential to eventually overcome this destructive force.

He also found references to powerful artifacts and hidden knowledge scattered throughout Nytheris, remnants of the energy beings who had created the ark. These might offer further insight into the convergence and provide tools or abilities to aid in their preparation.

Meanwhile, Jin had managed to acquire a set of sturdy plate armor and a more formidable-looking warhammer from the Oakhaven blacksmith, spending a significant portion of his share of Emile's initial investment. He felt much better equipped to face the dangers of the world.

They met back at the Whispering Boar Tavern to share their findings.

"So, the library had anything useful?" Jin asked, taking a swig of his virtual ale.

Emile recounted his discoveries about the convergence, the shadows, and the potential existence of powerful artifacts. Jin listened intently, his initial lightheartedness gradually fading as the gravity of the situation sank in.

"So, this isn't just about surviving some random apocalypse in our world," Jin said, his voice serious. "We might actually be fighting against some kind of cosmic evil?"

"It appears so," Emile confirmed. "And this ark, this game world, is our training ground, our potential refuge, and perhaps even our weapon."

They discussed their next steps. They agreed that growing stronger was paramount. Jin wanted to continue honing his Warrior skills and perhaps gather a core group of reliable players for his guild, Hearthstone Holdings, preparing them for the challenges ahead. Emile decided to focus on mastering his Voidblade Ascendant (Ex) abilities and seeking out the powerful artifacts mentioned in the ancient texts.

"Maybe those artifacts can give us an edge when this 'convergence' happens," Jin suggested.

"That is my hope," Emile replied. He knew his path would likely lead him to explore more dangerous and less-charted territories of Nytheris, seeking out the echoes of the energy beings and the secrets they had left behind. The weight of responsibility, not just for himself and Jin, but potentially for the future of many consciousnesses, rested upon his shoulders. The gathering storm of the convergence was on the horizon, and they needed to be ready for its arrival.