77 Room 77 (1/2)
The gamers of Eternal Kingdom were discussing how to conquer the Instance Dungeon in the forum, where they encountered many strange ideas.
For example:
[Why are healing salves, disinfectants, and bandages not added?]
[When is the map system coming out? Even the Dungeon's map is hand-drawn?]
[The Instance Dungeon is very real and with such difficulty. Is it a Dungeon version of Sekiro?]
The forum was filled with similar questions.
Sherlock browsed the forum and clicked on the posts that he was interested in. He clicked on F5 occasionally to refresh the pages.
It was getting busy outside, as there were more and more online gamers. Sherlock looked at the time, which was close to the afternoon.
Why was time passing so fast?
Sherlock was bewildered as he gazed at the computer. Was the computer a time-related Magical Item? Would time pass faster when it was in use?
The Dungeon Core lit up with flames, and a letter was spat out from the fire. It landed on Sherlock's table.
”To Lord Sherlock of Eternal Kingdom Dungeon—FeelAtHome Magical Item Shop”
Sherlock tore open the letter, and it was a short letter.
”Respectable Lord Sherlock:
I submitted the application for the recommended Archaeologist. The Merchant Alliance valued my recommendation highly. As it is a matter of utmost importance, the Archaeologist has to be tested. The actual interview and written test will be held three days from now. Please inform your friend to report to the Human Resource Department of the Winterfell Business Main Hall between 9am and 5pm.
Lord Sherlock, I hope that your friend will be able to pass the test successfully.”
Sherlock put away the letter after reading it.
”Lord Sherlock, it seems like the Gnome Shopkeeper is keen to have a share of your Ancient Ruins loot. His efficiency is very high,” Bru smiled as he said.
”It looks like that on the surface, but…” Sherlock placed his arms behind his head and leaned on the chair. He criss-crossed his legs and placed them on the table.
”Too easy.”
”Too easy? Lord Sherlock, that is half of your loot from the Ancient Ruins! You have successfully masqueraded as a rich and powerful superior Devil and convinced the Gnome Shopkeeper. It was logical that he would help you as soon as possible,” Bru said.
”I'm not talking about the Gnome. The Merchant Alliance agreed too easily. A large organization like the Merchant Alliance couldn't have such high efficiency. I thought I would only receive a reply in ten to twenty days. It seems too easy for a reply in a day.”
Sherlock stood up and took out his new windbreaker from the box made from wooden planks. He placed it on his arm.
”Oh… Is that so? I'm beginning to understand a little.” Bru went into deep thought before saying, ”I thought Lord Sherlock's contract would have no issues. I never expected the Gnome Shopkeeper to be that shrewd. If it's what you're thinking, your plan will fail. Are you giving up half your loot to him? Lord Sherlock, you have made a great loss.”
”I already thought of this situation, and it was within my expectations. I won't make a great loss. In fact, I will benefit a little, though it will cause me some inconvenience.” Sherlock put on his windbreaker as he walked out of the Dungeon Core Main Hall.
”Since Lord Sherlock has already considered carefully and things are within your plan, I don't have to worry. Lord Sherlock, would you like to make a Revival System maintenance announcement?” Bru asked.
”Make the announcement. I will be away for quite some time.” Sherlock walked towards the Teleport Portal.
”I understand. I'll extend the maintenance period. The maintenance has been quite frequent these few days. Lord Sherlock, it's time to employ an NPC to help revive the gamers. How about a Lich? Don't we have good relations with Specter College? Let Professor Bacon recommend a candidate.”
Sherlock walked into the Teleport Portal under the gaze of the chattering gamers.
In the next instant, Sherlock appeared in the VIP room of the Winterfell Teleport Portal Reception Hall.
”I have to consider it,” Sherlock said.
…
Magical lights glimmered with crimson rays. Bloodstains were found on the rusty black metal railings.
The huge signboard at the side showed ”404 Bar”. An Orc in an expensive western suit lay in the corner, vomit and trash surrounding him. The stench was unbearable, except to the thieves, who wouldn't mind the smell if it meant robbing him.