svetikya Chapter 14 Further Enhancement
Chapter 14 Further Enhancement
In the pure white hall of the Main God Space, ten figures were bathed in restorative light, the atmosphere completely different from when they had just survived the battle with the aliens. The exhaustion and relief of surviving the ordeal had faded, replaced by a scrutiny of the future, and... a thirst for power.
Wang Lin put away the contract paper that was faintly glowing with spiritual light, and his gaze swept over his teammates with different expressions.
Zheng Zha's eyes burned with the fire of becoming stronger, clearly calculating how to take advantage of this generous harvest (as a main force member, he wouldn't lack reward points and side quests). Zhan Lan's expression was calm, seemingly considering a more suitable direction for strengthening herself. Zero Point remained silent as always, but her eyes were sharp, assessing her own shortcomings. Overlord and Li Shuaixi were somewhat excited and bewildered, feeling overwhelmed by the vast exchange list from the main god. Li Xiaoyi and the other two newcomers were in a similar state.
Zhang Jie, with a cigarette dangling from his lips, leaned against the base of the light sphere, appearing indifferent, but his gaze occasionally swept over Wang Lin and Chu Xuan with a meaningful look.
Chu Xuan was already standing under the main god's light sphere, his eyes fixed on the constantly refreshing exchange list. His pupils behind his glasses contracted slightly, clearly processing a massive amount of information at a rapid pace.
Wang Lin knew this was a crucial moment for the team to solidify its direction. He walked over to Zheng Zha and patted him on the shoulder.
"Zheng Zha, you put in the most effort this time, so you'll definitely reap the greatest rewards. Have you decided on the direction for your strengthening?"
Zheng Zha nodded emphatically, a complex emotion flashing in his eyes: "I want to become stronger, strong enough to protect everyone, so I won't have to watch my teammates die anymore... Wang Lin, do you have any suggestions?"
This was precisely the question Wang Lin had been waiting for. However, he had already decided not to directly interfere with Zheng Zha's (the protagonist's) path to advancement. Zheng Zha's growth had its own inherent logic and an element of luck; forceful intervention might lead to unforeseen variables. But as a teammate and "contractual" partner, he could offer advice and… create "opportunities."
"As for my advice," Wang Lin said carefully, "your enhancement path is quite clear, leaning towards melee, burst damage, and survivability. Bloodlines are probably your main choice, such as higher-level vampire bloodlines, advanced Qi cultivation, or certain demon or dragon bloodlines. In terms of skills, high-burst and defensive skills that complement your bloodline are key. But what you choose specifically will depend on your own assessment of reward points and side quests, weighing potential, compatibility, and immediate combat effectiveness."
He paused, then added, "However, enhancement isn't something that can be done overnight. You can enhance your core bloodline or skills first, and save the remaining reward points for later. I have an idea... In the next horror movie, if we can cooperate to complete the high-difficulty side missions like we did this time, perhaps you can unlock more side quests to upgrade your key abilities."
This is Wang Lin's strategy: instead of telling Zheng Zha "you should exchange for 'explosion is art'", he implies that "teamwork to complete difficult tasks = more side quests = stronger". He guides Zheng Zha to actively pursue teamwork and high returns, rather than acting recklessly alone.
Zheng Zha's eyes lit up: "You mean, like killing the Empress? Yes! If we can complete the hidden missions every time..."
"The premise is meticulous planning and seamless teamwork." Wang Lin nodded. "Therefore, when you're strengthening your team, it's best to consider complementarity. You are the sharp blade charging ahead, needing support, control, intelligence, and healing from the rear. Chu Xuan, Zero Point, and Zhan Lan will be your strongest backing."
Zheng Zha looked thoughtfully at Chu Xuan and Ling Dian, then nodded vigorously: "I understand! I'll consider it!"
After calming Zheng Zha down, Wang Lin walked towards Chu Xuan. Chu Xuan was still immersed in a massive amount of information, his fingers unconsciously tapping, as if he were simulating calculations.
"Chu Xuan, do you have a direction yet?" Wang Lin asked.
Chu Xuan adjusted his glasses, not turning his head: "There's too much information. Cost-effectiveness assessment will take time. We've initially narrowed it down to a few areas: Gene Lock theory-related (extremely high price, information is vague), high-computational brain development, basic energy manipulation (introduction to magic and true essence), high-tech knowledge indoctrination (covering multiple fields such as materials, engineering, biology, and information), and special auxiliary bloodlines or skills (such as psionic perception and prophecy fragments). Reward points are limited, and there's only one C-level side quest; we need the optimal solution."
As expected, Chu Xuan pursued "knowledge" and "computing power," which were his core values.
Wang Lin thought for a moment and said, "From the perspective of cost-effectiveness and laying the foundation for your entire enhancement system, I personally suggest: prioritize the development of high computing power brain regions (at least level C) and the basic energy manipulation introductory course (preferably one with strong universality, such as 'Basic Energy Sensing and Manipulation,' level D or C)."
He explained, "Computational power is your core strength. Directly enhancing it will allow you to analyze intelligence, formulate plans, learn new knowledge, and even deduce skills or technologies yourself in the future. This is the most direct amplification of your abilities."
"Basic energy manipulation is the key to unlocking the extraordinary power system. Many advanced enhancements, skills, and even equipment in the God Realm involve energy manipulation. Laying a foundation in advance will allow you to get started faster, and even try to integrate and innovate, regardless of whether you choose magic, cultivation, telekinesis, or other systems in the future. This is a long-term investment."
"As for high-tech knowledge," Wang Lin shook his head, "knowledge can be learned slowly, and in the God Space, it can even be exchanged for time (although it's expensive). Moreover, many advanced technologies require corresponding industrial foundations and materials, and we might not be able to use them if we exchange them now. It's better to improve our own 'hardware' (brain) and 'interface' (energy sensing) first."
Chu Xuan stopped tapping his finger, turned his head, and looked at Wang Lin seriously: "Your suggestion is based on predictions of my behavior patterns and future needs. The improvement in computing power and energy base... do indeed align with the optimal solution for efficiency. Brain development is at level C, energy manipulation is at level D (introductory level), estimated to consume one level C side quest, 1500-2000 reward points. Remaining reward points can be exchanged for some practical skills or items, such as 'Photographic Memory', 'Rapid Learning,' or a high-performance personal computer (made by the Main God, with a basic database and powerful computing power)."
He had already come up with a more specific plan. Wang Lin simply helped him confirm the direction.
"That makes sense." Wang Lin nodded. "Also, regarding those alien samples you collected... if in-depth research is needed, it might involve biological laboratory equipment. These things aren't cheap to exchange in the God's Space, and they require storage space. Perhaps we could consider using the remaining reward points to build a basic research area for you in your personal space before the next mission begins? Of course, we'll need to agree on safety regulations."
This is a further commitment, and also an investment. Chu Xuan's research capabilities will likely provide crucial technical support for the team in the future.
A glint flashed in Chu Xuan's eyes: "Okay. I'll provide a minimum equipment list and budget. Safety protocols will be followed as previously agreed."
"Okay." Wang Lin stopped bothering him and turned to walk towards the other team members.
His advice to Zhan Lan focused on mental strength and support skills, such as mental scanning, telepathic connection, and healing or protective aura skills. For Zero, he suggested sniping specialization, stealth, and potential one-hit kill skills (such as bullet enchantment and weakness detection). For Ba Wang and Li Shuaixi, he recommended comprehensive physical enhancement (strength, agility, constitution) and choosing a practical combat skill (such as heavy weapon mastery or basic knife skills) to ensure basic self-defense and teamwork in the next horror film.
As for Zhang Jie… Wang Lin simply nodded at him without saying anything more. Strengthening this “semi-guide” was probably not something he could advise on.
Finally, Wang Lin returned to the sphere of light and began planning his enhancement.
3780 points, one C-level branch, and one D-level branch.
His core strategy was already set: control the situation, reconnaissance, and rule-based support. Everything revolved around "controlling the situation and reducing risks, especially the risks to 'people'."
First and foremost, mental strength and perception are fundamental. He needs even greater mental power to drive the lie-detecting eye, the potentially more complex contracts to come, and to deal with possible mental attacks.
[Intermediate Mental Enhancement (Grade C): Significantly increases mental strength, mental energy recovery speed, and mental resistance. Exchange: 800 reward points, one Grade C side quest.]
This can be used to upgrade C-level side quests and improve the fundamentals.
Secondly, investigation and early warning capabilities need to be upgraded. The lie detector only targets human speech; it requires more comprehensive environmental awareness and danger prediction.
[Enhanced Danger Perception (Level D): Improves the range and clarity of basic danger intuition, allowing for the vague detection of malice towards the team and hidden dangers in the environment. Redeemable for: 400 reward points and one Level D side quest.]
This uses up a D-level side quest.
Secondly, the development of the Contract Paper and the ability to improve rules require investment.
[Basic Rule Perception (Knowledge-based, No Level): Learn the basic methods for perceiving and understanding subtle rule traces, contract force fields, and causal lines. Can assist in contract writing and interpretation. Redeemable for: 300 reward points.]
This knowledge-based skill can be used in conjunction with the Contract Paper to enhance its efficiency and depth of understanding.
[Mental Energy Engraving Pen (Rank D Item): After being infused with mental energy, it can leave more stable runes or characters containing a stronger mental imprint on a specific medium (such as a contract sheet), enhancing the contract's effectiveness or granting simple trigger effects. Exchange: 250 Reward Points.]
These are tools; they are used in conjunction with other tools.
Finally, some methods are needed to deal with special situations (especially paranormal ones). His knowledge of paranormal bullet enchanting requires materials, so you can prepare some basic materials first and exchange them for a basic protection against spirits.
[Basic Exorcising Bullets *30 (Rank F Item): Slightly increases damage against low-level spirits and negative energy creatures. Exchange: 150 Reward Points.]
[Basic Amulet (Rank E Item): Passively resists weak mental erosion and negative energy attacks. Automatically triggers a weak purification effect upon encountering a strong supernatural attack, then expires. Exchange: 200 Reward Points.]
The remaining reward points can be used to redeem some general supplies, first aid medicines, and special items that may be needed (such as signal flares, climbing tools, etc.).
总计：800(C级强化)+400(D级强化)+300(知识)+250(道具)+150(子弹)+200(护身符)=2100点。还剩1680点作为备用资金，应对任务中的突发兑换和团队公共开支（比如楚轩的研究角预算）。
"God, exchange for [Intermediate Mental Enhancement (Grade C)], [Danger Perception Enhancement (Grade D)], [Basic Rule Perception], [Mental Power Engraving Pen], [Basic Evil-Exorcising Bullets * 30], [Basic Amulet]."
As the beam of light descended, a familiar sense of enhancement washed over him. His mental energy surged like a tide, becoming more solid and acute. His perception of the "malice" and "danger" in his surroundings became much clearer; though still somewhat hazy, he could now roughly discern direction and intensity. Profound knowledge about the perception of rules flowed into his mind, corroborating his knowledge of the contract inscriptions, giving him a deeper understanding of the patterns on the contract paper. A jet-black bone pen, warm to the touch, appeared in his hand, its tip seemingly shimmering with a faint light. Bullets and amulets also appeared in the pocket of his tactical vest.
Enhancement complete, attributes updated again:
[Reincarnator: Wang Lin]
[Number: 7341]
[Permission Level: 1 (Has completed two official missions, with a good evaluation)]
Overall Rating: D+
【Strength: 13】
[Agility: 14]
[Physical Fitness: 17]
[Spirit: 22 (+7)]
Perception: 18 (+4)
[Willpower: 19 (+2)]
[Energy: Weak Spiritual Energy]
[Skills: Omitted (New Basic Rule Perception)]
[Items: Omitted (New additions: Spiritual Inscription Pen, Evil-Exorcising Bullet, Basic Amulet)]
[Reward Points: 1680]
Side quests: None
His mental strength and perception have been greatly enhanced! In particular, his mental strength has reached 22 points, far exceeding that of ordinary people. Wang Lin feels that his thinking is clearer and more agile, and the burden of maintaining his lie-detecting eye and mental perception is also much lighter. The enhanced danger perception has given him a vague sense of his surroundings, like a hidden "early warning radar".
He took out the contract paper and the mental energy engraving pen, and tried to mobilize the newly added mental energy. With the engraving pen, he outlined a simple rule rune that he had just learned, representing "warning," on the blank edge of the paper.
The pen tip traced a faint silver mark, shimmering slightly, before disappearing into the paper. The contract paper seemed to have gained a touch more weight.
"Very good." Wang Lin put the two items away with satisfaction.
Meanwhile, the enhancements of the others were also completed one after another.
Zheng Zha's blood surged, sometimes glowing red (vampire energy), sometimes flowing with faint white mist (internal force), his aura significantly stronger than before, indicating he had enhanced his bloodline and internal force to a higher level. Zhan Lan seemed to have a faint silver mark on her forehead, her eyes clearer, likely related to enhanced mental strength. Ling Dian's aura became more restrained, like a dagger hidden in the shadows. Ba Wang's muscles bulged, his roar like thunder, clearly indicating a significant increase in power. Li Shuaixi also appeared more lean and wiry.
Chu Xuan... appeared unchanged, but the occasional flashes of data-like light in his eyes, and the barely perceptible glimmer of energy at his fingertips, indicated that his brain and energy perception were no longer what they used to be. He also held a tablet computer in his hand, as thin as paper but with an enormous screen.
Zhang Jie... remained lazy, but Wang Lin vaguely sensed that his aura had become even more profound and unpredictable.
"Is everyone finished strengthening?" Wang Lin clapped his hands, drawing everyone's attention. "Next, we have ten days of rest. I suggest that you familiarize yourselves with your new abilities for the first three days, practicing in your personal space or training ground. Starting on the fourth day, we will conduct team coordination training, especially tactical drills for different environments (city, jungle, space, paranormal). Chu Xuan, could you please design a few basic tactical coordination plans based on our current capabilities?"
Chu Xuan nodded: "Okay. I need detailed enhancement data for each person."
"No problem, I'll summarize it for you later," Wang Lin said. "Also, regarding what the next horror movie will be, the Main God will notify you on the last day. But based on the pattern, the difficulty may increase. We need to be prepared."
The crowd was in high spirits. Having survived the life-or-death ordeal with the alien and received substantial enhancements, their fear of the future had lessened considerably, replaced by confidence and anticipation.
Wang Lin remained calm as he watched this scene unfold.
He knew that the cruelty of the Supreme God would not change. The next world might be like "Ju-on," or "Final Destination," or perhaps an even more bizarre horror film. The internal ideological conflicts within the team (Zheng Zha and Chu Xuan), Zhang Jie's secret, the growth and elimination of newcomers... all will be tests.
He will continue to play the role of "controller" and "connector," using contracts, information, and his gradually growing personal abilities to guide this team with great potential but also hidden risks, as they struggle to survive in endless terror until... they uncover the truth behind it all.