Fire Mage bewitched by Power

Vecna's movements were fluid, his strides deliberate as he guided Elysia and Maribel through the bustling streets of Valoria. The city was alive with the activities of players and NPCs alike, a world bustling with its own rhythm even when night was approaching.

Tall buildings with intricately carved facades lined the streets, windows reflecting the vibrant hues of the virtual world. Pedestrians bustled about, players and NPCs intermingling seamlessly.

In the short time he was Awakened into his Vampire State, he had honed his senses to perfection, every sound and movement registered within his consciousness. No longer in distress from the cacophony of sounds entering his ears.

As they approached the Auction House, its exterior loomed into view.

The building was an impressive structure, adorned with banners and symbols that denote its purpose. The entrance was flanked by intricately designed pillars, and the large double doors stood open, inviting players and citizens of Valoria alike inside.

A sense of anticipation hung in the air, as players milled around, clutching items for appraisal and auction.

Entering the Auction House, Vecna's gaze swept over the interior. The space was expansive, illuminated by ornate chandeliers that hung from the ceiling. High ceilings and polished marble floors created an air of sophistication.

The main floor was bustling with players examining items displayed on pedestals, while the walls were lined with booths manned by Auction House employees, ready to assist in appraisals and sales.

Vecna's steps carried him further into the interior. He approached a counter where an NPC Auctioneer stood, a confident smile on their face.

"Welcome to the Auction House," the Auctioneer greeted warmly. "Are you here to deposit items for auction or to claim your earnings?"

"Only for my Earnings," Vecna replied, his voice steady and composed. He handed over a parchment indicating his intent to claim previous earnings.

"Your name, sir." inquired the Auctioneer with a professional expression, not giving off any emotion.

"Vecna." replied Vecna, composed and indifferent to the whole process.

The Auctioneer efficiently retrieved a ledger and began searching for Vecna's information. "Very well. Let me locate your account and verify the transactions."

While the Auctioneer worked, Vecna's thoughts drifted. He wondered how much money this type of Auction House would roll on a daily basis. The flow of goods was far greater than what the average player could comprehend.

It took Vecna only some visits to gauge the situation and understand the complexity of Satisfy's economic world. His understanding was only what his real-life experiences granted over the years about economics, yet an actual Economist, Stock Broker, and those who knew how to roll money might be the future financial Behemoths of this World.

Or it might be an ambitious gamer like Vecna or another one who understood those principles and began planning for future endeavors.

This Auction House was a definitive answer that the real concepts and theories of economy worked to Satisfy. It was a place where players could convert their virtual accomplishments into real in-game currency, a concept that intrigued Vecna.

Such a system held the potential for great profit if one understood the market and the desires of other players.

"Ah, here we are," the Auctioneer said, breaking Vecna from his thoughts. "I see you have successfully auctioned several items. Your earnings have been stored in your account."

With a nod of gratitude, Vecna accepted the pouch of virtual coins from the Auctioneer. The weight of the pouch felt substantial, a reward for his efforts.

"Thank you," Vecna said, his tone polite.

"It's our pleasure to assist," the Auctioneer replied, offering a professional smile.

'Open Inventory Bag'

[Resources: 126,258g]

As he claimed his earnings from the previous auction, his mind calculated the value of his new acquisitions, assessing which items he could part with for profit.

The Precision Bow in his possession bore a special significance, a weapon he intended to use to coax Jishuka into becoming hooked with his products, for herself and her guildmates.

They were worth investing in, and weren't shy away from showing off their ambition at dominating the Satisfy World as they did in a previous successful VRMMO.

'Tzedakah Guild. You have become my Gold Laying Goose. As rising stars you need the firepower to contend with the established nerds and no-lifers.'

Before he could decide on the final prices of the rest of the items he listed on his 'Hot' Thread, he pauses and decides to not rush himself.

It was already evening inside Valoria, time flying by rather quickly inside this Virtual World.

Not too long was he out from the Suppression Chamber along with Maribel.

Truly, a productive day for Vecna who thoroughly crushed Maribel at her favorite game of Chess, followed by vanquishing one of the notorious Archdemons of Hell and later on this day taking on the challenges of the Guild Hall and becoming a full-fledged Adventurer.

He glanced at his clock both holding the times for Satisfy and his IRL Time-zone according to the settings of the Capsule.

[9:36 PM] - Satisfy | [3:12 PM] - Bucharest

'She should be waking up?' thought Vecna thinking about the time difference between Europe and South America

He pauses a bit, as he contemplates his future fortunes. His crimson eyes, both observant and analytical, occasionally flickered towards the two girls.

"Let me take you girls to a Tavern so you can eat something. Now that I'm thinking of food, I'm quite hungry."

Elysia's reaction was immediate—her shoulders tensed, her posture stiffened, and her breath seemed to hitch. In her nervousness, she stumbled over her own words. "I-Is that so? I mean, of course, we can go to a Tavern. That sounds nice."

Maribel's mischievous grin was like a spark, and she couldn't resist adding fuel to the fire. She tilted her head and offered her neck to Vecna, a suggestive smirk on her lips. "Oh, Master, if you're hungry, you can always have a taste."

Vecna's expression remained unchanged, his crimson eyes leveling on Maribel. His voice, cool and unwavering, carried a hint of reproach. "I'm not some caricature from an old myth, Maribel. Your sense of humor is quite... peculiar."

Maribel's laughter rang out, echoing in the virtual space as she shrugged with amusement. "Just trying to lighten the mood. No need to be so serious, Vecna."

"I'll rather drink the blood of rats than drink yours." commented Vecna with a cold tone, still not getting over the incident where he had to do with Maribel's engine oil.

"Is that so? Then let's do an experiment. Let's return to my Workshop. I'll seal you there for a couple of years, and maybe you'll warm up to me."

Elysia, meanwhile, seemed to have turned a shade redder, embarrassment mingling with her initial tension. "I-I'm sorry, I didn't mean to... I mean, I'm glad you're not hungry for blood. That's a relief."

Vecna's lips curved in a faint smile, a rare display of his amusement. "You have quite an imagination, Maribel. And Elysia, there's no need to apologize. Misunderstandings are common."

As they walked, the city seemed to envelop them in its vibrant existence. Vecna's mind was a sea of calculations, but even he couldn't completely detach from the atmosphere around him.

And in a moment where the previous incident irked his consciousness, he turned at Elysia who was by his side, all veiled in her dark cloak.

"I assure you, Elysia, I'm not about to launch into a vampiric feeding frenzy," he said, his tone dry. "Despite the legends about Vampires, I'm a God. Those mundane needs that would drive some puny ghoul into a frenzy don't affect me."

"Also, I do have a taste for more mundane sustenance."

This was a subject of interest to him, and thankfully it was proven quicker with his first meal inside Alistar's Training Ground.

He could actually eat simple food, however it had no effect on his Hunger. Meter Nevertheless, the experience of taste and flavors was still on his pallet, if not they were beyond enhanced thanks to his transformation.

Maribel's chuckle swelled, her eyes bright with mischief. "Don't worry, Elysia. Vecna might be a creature of the night, but he's also got some humanity left."

"I was a human after all."

Elysia's blush deepened, a mix of embarrassment and relief crossing her features. "I-I know, it's just... the fangs and all. Reminds me of that night."

Maribel's curiosity was irrepressible, and she shot a playful grin his way. "So, how does the Lord of Vampires manage his other... needs?"

'This bitch. Is she actually asking me about Sex?'

'Fuck, this is a subject I haven't thought about it. Is it possible to do it inside Satisfy? Should be, with all that freedom conferred.'

Vecna's amusement shifted, his demeanor growing subtly more guarded. "That's a topic I'd rather not delve into."

Soon, a grand tavern loomed before them. Its rustic exterior exudes warmth, and Vecna led them inside, being the one the gazes focused on. The tavern's interior was a cozy haven, NPCs bustling to and fro, serving drinks and meals.

Vecna selected a table in a quiet corner, offering both privacy and a vantage point.

Their orders were placed, and as the tavern's ambiance wrapped around them, Vecna allowed himself a moment of quiet reflection.

[User Laella has delivered you a private message]

[Accept/Decline]

'...'

When he thought finally he could enjoy some silence with the girls eating, his DM box started getting active, and it wasn't any of the Black Fang players who he blocked.

'Laella? Who could she be?'

Thinking that, while the Notification Window of the message was open, he went into the Rankings Interface, and checked the name. Hold and behold, the familiarity of this name wasn't for no reason.

[57th. Laella - LV. 169- Fire Mage]

'Ohh, I caught another big fish, and this one is plump indeed. Let's check what she wants since I got nothing better to do.'

'Besides, I need to take a break from Satisfy to stretch around and take a walk to refresh my mind.'

[You have accepted.]

The interface of the System shifted, revealing a message box where users could communicate in multiple ways. They could employ a voice-chat, a video-call where a holographic image of themselves would show to the receiver and back, or via messages typed manually or telepathically.

The easiest method for Vecna was using his mind to type his messages. It took less time, far faster than speaking.

The text box was ready for his input, a blank canvas for the words he would choose to shape the course of this interaction. The process was smooth, his thoughts translating into digital text seamlessly.

#Laella: … (Writing/Typing)

#Laella: Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I've heard quite a bit about you from Jishuka. Mind if I join you for a chat?

#Vecna: Greetings. Feel free to talk.

The conversation took on a start, flowing smoothly with Vecna's willingness to speak and Laella's inquiries guiding the discussion.

#Laella: I've read the Forum Thread you posted today, and noticed you're selling the spell 'Blazing Nova.' I'm interested in purchasing it. What's your price?

Reading that comment and how she showed interest in coming directly to negotiate with the seller, propped certain questions in his mind, and his expression was noticed by Elysia and Maribel.

He waved casually his hand, signaling them to relax.

#Laella: You might think about the price right now. I'll be the bold one in this conversation and tell you my offer. I'll pay you 55.000 Gold, and a good word if you wish to join Tzedakah Guild.

#Laella: Of course, this wouldn't be all. If you accept this price, I might give you some fan service.

#Vecna: Pardon? I think you've got the wrong person. I don't even know who you are in the first, why speak of fan service? Are you some pervert?

#Laella; Now I feel a bit offended but at the same time relieved. Have you really never heard of my name? Laella? Not just on Satisfy, but on the Skyweb? Maybe from the top trending music online?

#Vecna: … Doesn't ring a bell. Are you by chance some popular Pop Singer that is trending with kids of this generation?

#Vecna: Wait.

#Laella: Yes?

#Vecna: I think I've seen your name once on my little sister's phone since she was probably listening to one of your songs?

#Laella: That's right, it's certainly me! So, aren't you happy that you get to speak directly with a beauty of my caliber?

#Vecna: Don't get the wrong idea, I'm only in business here. Let's get back to what you wish. The Blazing Nova spell, correct?"

#Laella: That's so cold. You're such a different contrast to my fans."

#Vecna: That's life, miss. You're not the center of my world, so I really couldn't care about your popularity and your music. Back to your price. Are you sure, you're offering me 55.000g for an Epic Rated Magician Spell?

Vecna was clueless about Laella's identity and popularity, but she was a global sensation with hundreds of millions of fans that adored her. Her recent albums released in the previous years of 2070 and 2069 were the best-selling albums of the year. Her singles peaked in the top 10 in the US and UK

Isabella Moreno as the World of Music knew her was an interesting person for her dual success in both words, first as a top global singing sensation, and a High-Ranker of Satisfy.

From Vecna's perspective, it was better that he didn't have outside influences over this negotiation. Caring little about Laella's identity, and centering himself on the sum of money she could fork.

#Laella: That's a fair price.

#Vecna: A fair price? How come you're interested in that spell? It does seem rather low-level. Aren't you mages capable of getting your Spells from the Magic Towers that you aligned with?

#Laella: Hah, you think we Mages have it easy? We need to farm reputation points to get our spells.

#Vecna: That's not my concern. Your offer is quite low, and I'm not inclined to be taken advantage of.

#Laella: I'm sorry if my offer was too low. I just thought we could reach a fair deal.

#Vecna: Fairness is relative. I'm not here to provide charity. If you can't meet my terms, we have nothing more to discuss.

#Laella: I understand. Maybe we can find some common ground. What price are you looking for?

#Vecna: Let me provide you with some perspective. Epic spells in the market are currently valued between 50,000 to 150,000 gold, depending on their rarity and utility. If you're looking for a deal, you should consider these ranges.

The exchange of messages continued, Laella's attempts to secure a reasonable price met with Vecna's unyielding stance. It was a virtual tug-of-war, where each word carried the weight of their intentions.

While Vecna's mind was engaged in this negotiation, his senses were still attuned to his surroundings. Maribel and Elysia engaged in their own conversation, their animated gestures and laughter intermingling with the tavern's ambiance.

Vecna's facade remained calm and collected, his crimson eyes occasionally flicking toward the girls. He was a master of balancing multiple facets of this supernatural existence, even when they seemed to pull him in different directions.

#Laella: You're asking too much out of me. I get it that your spell is great, and offers something that we Mages lack, defense and mobility. But aren't you too cruel with this beauty?

#Vecna: 89.000 gold or I'm taking this spell to the Auction House. Pretty sure I'll get above what I just mentioned.

#Laella; Come on, Vecna. For the sake of the friendship you've built with my Guild Master. Lower it to 85.000 gold.

#Vecna: Aren't you a Global Star? Just buy some gold from the Gold Sellers and buy the spell. I can sell you some gold, for 1.5$ per gold.

#Laella: As if my Manager would allow me such a possibility. I'll be nagged for days if she hears that I bought Gold online.

#Vecna: I guess. Hah, I'll let you know that I'm preparing to log out in 10 minutes. You have 10 minutes to come up with a final offer that will satisfy me.

#Laella: Alright.

Without even being aware, he spent about 40 minutes butting heads with this girl Laella over the subject of Blazing Nova, but in the breaks and pauses they took, Vecna was entertained by the conversation Elysia and Maribel had about the Automatons he faced in the Suppression Chamber.

What intrigued him most was how the Source of Power worked, but Maribel was truly shrewd and cut herself short, shifting the subject when she was about to reveal certain secrets of her Creation.

"You'll get nothing since you didn't even join the discussion."

"I am the one paying the bill. And I did talk back when I was asked about something, particularly of interest."

Continuing his multitasking, finally, there was a sum and extra that intrigued him.

#Laella: 87.500 Gold and tickets to my shows when they happen in your country. By the way, where are you from?

#Vecna: Hah, you're truly a Diva. Sure, do you have some Concerts in Romania?

#Laella: Let me check my Agenda. …

#Laella: Yep, great place. The best place in Eastern Europe along with Poland. I have one there on 5th August in Bucharest. Honest with you, I've never seen such nice buildings, not even in Paris or Amsterdam. (#A/N: Biased Author, but the story is projected in 2070s, Eastern Europe Countries could be the next Powerhouses of Europe, and is visible by the decline of the West)

He wanted to laugh a bit that this "famous" lady was offering him tickets to her Concert. First instinct was to decline her offer, but Silvia's face smiling widely, giggling, and having fun as she enjoyed the music and the vibe of a concert surfaced.

'Hah. By this point, I'll ask for more on the next items. This one is for Silvia.'

#Vecna: Alright, you have a deal. Thank Silvia for convincing me to lower the price so low.

#Laella: YEAHHHH! FINALLY! SILVIA? Tell me her X tag, I'll send her a video.

#Vecna: Sure, sure. We'll do it C.O.D. I'll send the Spell Book after my break.

#Laella: Sure thing, Vecna. I can call you that, right?

#Vecna: As you wish. Goodbye.

[You have received a friend request from User 'Laella']

'I think she is the extrovert type. Maybe too over the top for a first talk. However, she's rather easy to manipulate at first sight.'

[You have accepted.]

When the negotiations finally wrapped up, Vecna felt a subtle sense of satisfaction. The deal was made, the transaction was completed.

With a final message, he confirmed the exchange and turned his attention back to his night inside the Tavern. There was a bill to pay, and with fortunes that made his hard savings before reaching his Vampiric State laughable and pathetic.

Approaching the Innkeeper, an act that obviously attracted the attention of the people, sensing that Vecna was someone dangerous to be around, akin to a lion drinking water not far from a herd of herbivores.

With his usual calm demeanor, he reached for some gold coins enough to fill the bill, and paid for all the consumption of the girls, not being stingy when it came to those close to him.

'I should also get some lodging here. Staying at old Alistar's place is too much, I'll rather keep my interactions with him as small as possible since he might scheme against me.'

Turning his gaze to the Innkeeper, who was counting the coins on the counter, he spoke in his measured tone. "Excuse me, is there a room available for three people? Preferably with two beds."

The Innkeeper, a middle-aged NPC with a friendly smile, nodded in response.

"Indeed, sir. We have just the room for you. It's located on the second floor, down the hall to your right. You'll find it quite comfortable."

Vecna acknowledged the information with a nod of gratitude. "Thank you. We'll take it."

The Innkeeper handed him a key with a polished wooden tag, indicating the room number. Vecna's gaze shifted momentarily to the key, and then he looked back at the Innkeeper. "Appreciate your assistance. We'll head up there shortly."

The Innkeeper offered a warm smile. "Of course, take your time. If you need anything else, feel free to ask."

Vecna's expression remained composed as he thanked the Innkeeper once more and turned away. He glanced back at Elysia and Maribel, who had been observing the exchange. "Our lodgings are settled for the night. Let's go upstairs and rest."

With that, he led the way toward the staircase that led to the second floor. As they ascended the steps, the whispers of the other patrons couldn't escape Vecna's hearing.

『Innkeep, you better keep your distance from that guy. He doesn't look to be human from his eyes. Take this as advice, same for the others. Better not mess around with him or his women.』

『Indeed. I've taken a short glance before turning away. Those murderous eyes, red as blood, remind me of the old stories of my old ma. About the Beasts of the Night who prowl and hunt unfortunate folks, drunk fools and women walking alone at night.』

『You must be referring to Vampires…. Hissss, if … and I say, if. That person is a Vampire. We're fucked. Send someone to Lord Toric and have a Monster Hunter take this Vampire down before things get murky in Valoria.』

『Would it be better to send a letter to our Duchess?』

『She's away visiting the Capital City, Titan..』

Vecna closed his predatory eyes slowly, taking in all the various information that assaulted his mind since stepping inside the Tavern. Such places were a treasure trove for him when it came to Information Digging.

And considering the events of today, he couldn't deny that everything that happened today took a toll on his mental energy. A sense of weariness began to creep in, reminding him that even though he was a vampire, he was still operating within the limitations of the game's mechanics.

Arriving at the second floor, he followed the Innkeeper's directions and found the room. Unlocking the door, he held it open for Elysia and Maribel to enter. The room was spacious and tastefully decorated, with two neatly made beds and a small seating area by the window.

Vecna closed the door behind them and leaned against it, his crimson eyes surveying the room. "Make yourselves comfortable. Rest well," he advised in his usual calm manner.

"I will be required to take a leave, but don't worry I will return by morning. Elysia you can explain the reason why to Maribel as I told you."

"Mhmm, I'll try. But the explanation is far better if it is said by you."

"As my first Blood Servant. Do at least this for me. Be good, and don't cause too much trouble while I'm away."

'Log Out.'

Saying that, in a couple of seconds he vanished with a mysterious effect, with blood particles scattering around the whole room of this Tavern, akin to what his Identity was inside Satisfy, of a fallen Vampire God.