Veiled Alliances and Staged Strife
Vecna moved with the fluid grace of a shadow through the dense foliage, guided by his vampiric instincts and an acute awareness of his surroundings. The clamor of the Orc Horde Camp faded behind him as he retraced his steps, blending seamlessly with the shadows to avoid attracting attention.
Silently navigating the labyrinth of trees, he marveled at the chaotic yet structured nature of the Orc camp. They were oblivious to the looming danger that Vecna represented. The moon that gave the illusion of a crimson moon overhead cast an eerie glow, enhancing the menacing atmosphere as Vecna approached the perimeter of Arthur's Camp.
He halted at the edge of the clearing, observing the meticulous preparations underway. The adventurers were focused on their tasks, oblivious to Vecna's presence. The flickering campfire illuminated Arthur, delivering his new set of orders, and the group, diligently secured equipment and supplies.
Vecna's eyes scanned the faces of the group, recognizing the varying expressions from determination to nervousness. It was a motley crew, and he couldn't help but appreciate the diversity among players that Satisfy offered.
As he stepped into the light, a subtle shift in the atmosphere occurred. The adventurers paused, their eyes narrowing in suspicion. Arthur, sensing the tension, raised a hand to signal that Vecna was not a threat.
"Sir Vecna! Back so soon? Has something happened for you to show up?" Arthur called, his voice carrying a mix of surprise and curiosity.
"You can be at ease, Arthur."
The flickering campfire cast dancing shadows across the faces of Arthur Vinespine and his six companions. The atmosphere was tense as they huddled together, their weapons and gear reflecting the fire's dim light.
The unexpected arrival of Vecna had injected an air of uncertainty into their mission, and they exchanged cautious glances.
"Sir Vecna? Is he the Adventurer from Valoria who came to assist us against the Orcs?" inquired a young man.
Another young man, looking at Vecna's handsome appearance, his tall build, golden hair, and crimson eyes, couldn't help but wonder if they were seeing ghosts of something, while another young woman from Arthur's companions stared intently at Vecna.
She turned to look at Arthur for answers, and their leader nodded, confirming afterwards about who Vecna was. "That's indeed correct, this gentleman is the Adventurer from Valoria who pushed back on the Goblin and Orc attacks, and the reason we're here is to secure the safety of Summit's Crest."
Vecna, standing with an air of calm confidence, introduced himself, "Vecna Sanguinarius. Pleased to meet you, brave adventurers."
Hearing Vecna's words, Arthur's companions were taken aback for the 'fabled' leader being right inside the enemy's heart, with no fear in sight.
The adventurers, still grappling with the shock of Vecna's presence deep within enemy territory, exchanged uncertain glances. The second woman in the group, her eyes wide with concern, voiced the question that lingered on everyone's minds, "But why are you here, Sir Vecna? What if we get caught by the Orcs? We're in the heart of their territory."
Vecna's smirk widened as if relishing the gravity of the situation. "The Orcs won't be a problem. In fact, my presence here ensures that their attention will be diverted elsewhere. We have matters to discuss."
As the group absorbed Vecna's cryptic words, Levial, a young man with silver-themed gear, voiced his apprehensions, "Lord Vecna, will we attack the Orcs by surprise? I fear we're severely outnumbered."
[Levial - LV. 195] (Silver)
Vecna's gaze shifted to Levial, sizing him up with an appraising look. His response was measured and decisive, "No, you shall proceed by evacuating. No need to tell the Orcs anything else, as you have accomplished your mission."
Levial nodded in understanding, a mixture of relief and lingering tension evident on his face.
Another voice, this one belonging to a young woman with golden hair, clad in sleek black leather armor, spoke up with a question that mirrored the concerns of the group.
[Selina - LV. 198] (Gold-Silver)
"Will Summit's Crest be alright if the Orcs decide to attack, sir Vecna?" she inquired, her eyes focused and daggers strapped to her sides.
Vecna, with a hint of devilish charm, replied, "Without a doubt, Summit's Crest is more than ready. Why don't you wait to see it for yourself?"
Giving the young woman an appraisal, he couldn't help but praise Davian in his head, this 'Butler' of his, had actually the right manpower to take over Summit's Crest.
Selina exuded an aura of confidence and preparedness. Her golden hair framed a face that bore the marks of experience, and her daggers gleamed in the firelight, reflecting the uncertainty and determination that marked their mission. What she wasn't aware of as she looked at Vecna, was that this mysterious Vampire had already made a mental-note on her.
'She's worth investing in. If I look after her, she might as well evolve into a Gold-Named Character.'
As the discussion continued, Arthur urged the group to prepare their belongings, emphasizing the value of the stolen medicinal plants.
"Guys, you should prepare your belongings. Don't forget the medicinal plants we stole from the Shaman Grounds. They might sell for a lot in Valoria or Titan."
Hearing Arthur say that, he instantly got reminded that Arthur was a Vinespine, how couldn't the nephew of a Merchant won't do something despicable for some profit?
'No wonder. It runs in their bloodline. The Merchants are always a delight to work with, unlike the rigid Aristocrats.'
While Arthur's companions bustled around, gathering their belongings, Vecna subtly motioned for Arthur to step aside for a private conversation. The two found a quieter spot near the edge of the camp, away from prying ears.
As they walked to the sidelines, Vecna could sense a change in Arthur's demeanor.
Vecna glanced around, ensuring no one was within earshot, before beginning, "Arthur, I have an important mission for you. It involves the Black Magician woman you have encountered in the camp. I want you to fight her again."
"Wouldn't this alert the Orcs and Yatan Church? There's also that old mage, Neberius, who commands the majority of the Orc leaders. It's as Levial said, if we attack now, we'll be outnumbered," Arthur expressed his concerns.
Vecna maintained a calm composure as he began to reveal the intricacies of the mission. "It's not what you think, Arthur. Me and this Black Magician woman have formed an... alliance of sorts. She'll be my insider inside the Yatan Church, but we need to reinforce her position within the Church."
Arthur's expression shifted, curiosity mingling with concern. "And how do I fit into all of this?"
Vecna explained, "Neberius wants her to kill you, but that's impossible. So, we stage a fight, creating chaos and casualties. It will provide a perfect justification for your withdrawal from the Orc Camp, making it appear as if she succeeded in her mission."
A flicker of realization crossed Arthur's face, and he asked, "You want me to pretend to be defeated, to deceive the Yatan Church?"
Vecna nodded, "Exactly. It's a strategic move to weaken their forces without directly engaging in a full-scale battle. The less attention we draw, the better. This way, we can focus on our larger goals without unnecessary conflict."
Arthur considered the plan for a moment, weighing the risks and benefits. "If it weakens those cultists, count me in. But we need to ensure Summit's Crest is well-protected during this."
Vecna agreed, "Rest assured, Summit's Crest will be more than ready. Now, let's get this plan in motion."
After spending about 30 minutes with Arthur and his group, explaining to the rest his plan since he didn't want the 'Pawns' to think they were endangered, he moved on towards the battlefield he selected.
[You have entered the Hunting Ground - Forest of Gloom (LV. 200-350)]
Picking a secluded spot, jumping high, and using his supernatural climbing ability, he soon reached the top of a towering tree. From there on, his fingers glided over the ethereal surface of his Game's interface.
'Lamech. Do you know what makes a woman move?'
{"Yeah. Receiving what they want."}
'Sort of.'
Crafting the message, Vecna's eyes glimmered with a hint of excitement. He began typing, each word carefully chosen to manipulate Yura into following his instructions. As he finished composing the message, he took a deep breath and pressed the send button.
The digital message sparkled and disappeared into the void of the Game.
'Bring as many of those Cultists as possible. I need to get some more levels while idling around.'
Minutes turned into hours as Vecna waited in anticipation. He knew that Yura's desire for power would drive her to take the bait. The plan needed to be flawless, perfect in every detail. Vecna's mind was enveloped by the possibilities that lay ahead.
Late at night, deep within a dense forest, Yura and the cultists of the Yatan Church arrived at the designated location. The air was thick with an eerie stillness, as if the very presence of the forest held its breath in anticipation. The moon's pale light filtered through the canopy above, casting elongated shadows on the ground.
Yura, adorned in her dark ceremonial robes, glanced around nervously. The forest was unlike anything she had ever seen, filled to the brim with high-level monsters.
'This guy is nuts to set up a fight in this part of Travian Sierra. Hopefully, I'm not scammed, again, or I'll really fight back.'
The male cultist, Deacon Jamol, voiced concerns about the perilous route chosen for their confrontation.
"Deacon, I can't spot the enemy hindering our plans with the Orcs," he remarked, his eyes scanning the shadowy expanse.
"It will take a while until they appear. You guys have confirmed that their group left the Camp, but to think they would follow this dangerous path," replied Yura, her gaze fixed on the path ahead.
"Truly. They must have gotten something important with them to be rushing out so soon. Cardinal Neberius was about to step in and act, but he still trusts you Deacon."
"Worry not, Deacon Jamol. I will see the task cleared out," assured the male cultist, echoing the unwavering faith they all had in Yura's leadership.
The roars of unknown creatures echoed through the trees, creating an unnerving symphony. But Yura knew that this was all part of Vecna's plan. The danger added to the allure and authenticity of the impending battle.
Her eyes flickered with determination as she addressed her cultists. "Stay alert, my brethren," she commanded, her voice laced with authority. "Our moment to prove ourselves to Neberius and God has come. We must not falter now."
The cultists, their faces masked by unwavering devotion, nodded in unison. They had been promised great rewards if they succeeded in this fabricated battle. The thought of impressing Neberius, their enigmatic and powerful leader, fueled their spirits with unparalleled zeal.
As Yura led her cultists deeper into the forest, she felt a strong sense of foreboding. The shadows intertwined with her steps, playing tricks on her mind. Yet, she pushed forward, guided by the whispers of ambition that danced in her thoughts.
#Yura: Where is your NPC? You don't tell me we got to clear out this Hunting Ground that no player has braved to clear?
#Vecna: You're on the right path, just continue on the cleared way. You'll be there soon, I can see you.
Soon, they arrived at a clearing, an arena shrouded in darkness. The moonlight pierced through the gaps in the foliage above, casting an ethereal glow on the bloodstained ground. Yura took a moment to survey the surroundings, her heart racing with a mix of anxiety and excitement.
A twisted smile curled on Yura's lips as she saw Arthur Vinespine waiting in the center of the clearing. Clad in his own battle gear, he exuded an aura of undeniable strength. The display was meant to convince Neberius of Yura's ability to recruit powerful allies. It was all part of Vecna's intricate plan.
[Arthur Vinespine - LV. 220] (Gold) (Boss)
Arthur's eyes locked onto Yura, a flicker of something akin to respect shimmering within. He knew that this was all a facade, a carefully orchestrated performance. And yet, deep down, he couldn't help but feel a hint of excitement for the upcoming skirmish.
As the cultists formed a circle around Yura and Arthur, the tension in the air became palpable. The forest seemed to hold its breath as the battle between light and darkness was about to be staged.
She could feel the weight of responsibility pressing down on her shoulders. The outcome of this battle would determine the future of her Quest and her progress in the Yatan Church.
[Silence the Summit's Crest Messenger(S)]
Infiltrate the human settlement of Summit's Crest and investigate the intentions of Arthur Vinespine. Subdue or manipulate him if necessary to secure his cooperation with the Yatan Church's goals.
Quest Clear Condition:
- Gather information about Arthur Vinespine.
- Ensure Arthur Vinespine does not pose a threat to the Yatan Church's plans.
Clear Rewards: 500 Yatan Church Influence Points, Greater Elixir of Subjugation
Quest Failure Penalties: Reputation loss within the Yatan Church, and potential exposure of our plans to 'Lord Vecna'.
'Sigh, Here it is. While he grew by 10 levels, I only stagnated catering to Neberius…' (Yura's thoughts)
"Deacon, give us your orders." (the Zealos Cultist of the Yatan Church)
"Stand down for now."
Summoning her resolve, Yura raised her hand, commanding her followers to stand down. The Yatan Church members hesitated for a moment, their faces etched with confusion and disappointment. But they respected Yura's authority and retreated obediently, withdrawing their onslaught.
Vecna, hidden in the shadows, watched with bated breath. His plan was unfolding precisely as he had envisioned. The sight before him sent shivers down his spine as a chilling thought passed his thoughts.
'Should I take her down? What if she doesn't do as she promised and backstabs me?'
'Lamech. Can 'Cursed Ones' become my Blood Servants?'
{...}
The Soul of the First Generation Vampire of the Primeval Age remained silent at the question fronted by Vecna.
{"No. Master Caine's Divinity can only subdue the wills of the inhabitants of this World."}
{"Your kind is immune to our control."}
'Alright. Thank you for telling me this.'
As Arthur's companions looked around in bewilderment, trying to decipher what just happened, Yura stepped forward, her voice carrying with an air of confidence. "Arthur Vinespine, we meet again," she spoke, her words laced with determination. "I did not come here to engage in mindless bloodshed. We need to settle this, you and I."
Arthur's eyes narrowed, a mixture of skepticism and curiosity flickering across his face. "And what makes you think I would entertain your proposition, Black Magician? You and your Church have caused enough damage to Humanity."
Yura's expression softened as she spoke, her voice filled with conviction. "I believe we can put an end to this senseless conflict. The path we are currently on will only lead to further destruction."
"I propose a duel, You and I, one on one. If you prove victorious, the Yatan Church will cease its actions against you and your comrades. But if I win, you and your companions will help us in our grand endeavor."
Arthur's companions exchanged glances, unsure of how to respond to Yura's proposition. Arthur himself seemed intrigued by her words, contemplating the offer.
'Is this also part of Vecna's scheme? Could it be that Neberius is watching the fight?'
After a brief pause, he finally nodded, his voice carrying a hint of reluctant acceptance. "Very well, Yura. But bear in mind, if you try anything deceitful, I won't hesitate to end this."