Shopping Sprees

Morning bathed the bustling Valoria City, its streets alive with the energy of vendors hawking their wares and buyers negotiating deals. Vecna moved with his characteristic purposefulness through the vibrant market, a calculated presence amidst the bustling activity.

Walking on either side of him were his two companions, Elysia and Maribel, their unique qualities distinct in the crowd.

Elysia, draped in her dark cloak, moved with an air of cautious grace. The fabric concealed her form from prying eyes, a practical choice in a city where the existence of the Corrupted Guards was a constant worry for the group, except Vecna.

Her steps were light and deliberate, her movements graceful and calculated, much like Vecna's own. Despite her vigilance, her curiosity about the ways of life the Humans had couldn't be entirely concealed, and her gaze occasionally flitted to the array of goods displayed around them.

Her hatred for the Empire couldn't be misplaced on the simple citizens of this city, instead, her targets were higher-ups of the Empire such as Prince Dulandal, Duke Limit Baden, and Duke Diworth Tiphon who led the Legions of the Empire to crush the Silverwood Kingdom residing in the vast region protected by the Atlas Mountains.

Maribel, on the other hand, exuded a confident charm. Her fiery hair caught the sunlight in a way that seemed to set her aglow. She navigated the crowd with a certain self-assuredness, her demeanor a mixture of playfulness and poise.

"Impressive. Those humans actually reached a decent level of craftsmanship. Not to the extent the Dwarfs proudly make, but it's decent." remarked Maribel about the various objects she saw on the market's stalls.

"How much do you think it takes them, Vecna?" asked the red-haired beauty, glancing at Vecna who was ahead, not stopping even once like in their previous 'intimate' interactions.

"..." Vecna was indifferent, he was visiting this Market for another reason than watching objects.

"Come on, you can't be angry that I made fun of you for ogling at our bodies while we were sleeping?"

Elysia slowed, slight rosiness in her cheeks when Maribel made a bombastic statement.

"Why should I be?"

Maribel's response was laden with playful exaggeration, her tone carrying a mischievous note that danced on the edge of jest.

"Well, you should be more careful next time when you're in the same room with ladies. There's something called intimacy." pointed out Maribel, trying to rub some salt into Vecna who sighed inwardly.

Vecna's internal sigh was a muted echo in the grand theater of his thoughts. The amusement that threatened to curl the edges of his lips was swiftly reined in, buried beneath his ever-present veneer of indifference.

Maribel's teasing was no surprise to him; he had quickly learned that her playful jabs were a defining trait.

'Sure. If I want I can parade you all stripped in this market. You can't stop me as long as I activate the Blood Seal imprinted in your hearts.'

This was a feature he learned later on from the Book of Night, a small explanation of how the Blood Servant System worked and where his limits stood for now.

The Blood Seal, something he wasn't aware existed previously, was the mark of the Contract between him and his Slaves, and by utilizing his Blood Connection, he could forcefully take control over his Servants, manipulating them to his wishes.

Yet, he had chosen not to delve into that realm, electing to uphold their individuality despite the potential control at his fingertips. What benefits would he have by doing this, especially for talented women like Elysia and Maribel?

Maribel's words hinted at something deeper, though. Her demeanor was lighthearted, yet there was a knowing glint in her gaze as she glanced at Vecna.

It was as if she held a key to a door he was reluctant to open, a door that led to a more personal side of him he had grown accustomed to concealing.

Still, in this matured lady that would smith even the greatest Casanova, lived the Soul of a Dwarf Lady whose personality was too … 'powerful' to handle. She was so unlike a human girl, instead, it reminded him of the old fantasy movies where Dwarf Warriors chattered about nonsense.

Such, the facial expression of the Vampire Lord remained dead-silent, slight annoyance visible on his predatory eyes, but he didn't reply back to Maribel, lest he stirred her up into mushing his enhanced brain.

Elysia, coughed a bit, her tone a gentle reminder that tugged Maribel back. "Mari, stop trying. He got into his indifferent mask."

"And? He will get back immediately if I make a joke. Want to hear a good one, Vecna? This one was popular 300 years ago in Talima's Taverns." her response was a lingering, knowing smile as she relented, acknowledging the enigma that was Vecna's stoic exterior

'Fuck off, you crazy bitch.'

Vecna truly was an introvert. He liked to mind his business without people getting too much into his face. Even as he watched various stalls of different Merchants with his piercing crimson eyes staring into the human's soul, he continued ahead, seemingly displeased that he didn't find what he was looking for.

One of the main objectives for today was to restock his inventory with Health and Mana Potion, and if he had some fragment of luck on his side, with Anti-Poisons or Attribute Potions.

Vecna's acute senses led him to a small stall nestled between a jewelry vendor and an exotic spices stand. It was unassuming, easily overlooked in the cacophony of the market's vibrant offerings. The sign hanging above the stall bore the modest inscription:

[Alchemist Apprentice – Potions for Sale.]

Vecna's crimson eyes, a constant reminder of his true nature, settled on the stall's proprietor. The Alchemist Apprentice was a young man, his face bearing the telltale marks of sleepless nights spent hunched over cauldrons and vials. His fingers bore the subtle stains of potion-making, and his eyes held a glint of ambition that matched his choice of trade.

'Finally. I found one of them. I knew there was an Class that taught Magician Students Alchemy.'

'Also, this youngster seems promising.'

[Casper - LV. 50] (Silver-Gold)

Vecna approached the stall, his predatory gaze assessing the rows of vials containing a rainbow spectrum of liquids. Health potions, mana potions, and a variety of other concoctions filled the shelves, each promising a respite from the perils of the virtual world.

Without a word, Vecna's fingers danced over the vials, his touch careful and calculating. His crimson eyes analyzed the colors and viscosity of the potions, his keen senses discerning the potency of each concoction. The Alchemist Apprentice, a mixture of apprehension and hope etched on his face, watched as the enigmatic customer evaluated his offerings.

[Intermediate Health Potion]

This is a potion which has been formulated with five or more herbs.

Restores 2,500 health.

The cooldown time is 30 seconds.

Weight: 9

[Intermediate Mana Potion]

This is a potion which has been formulated with five or more herbs.

Restores 2,500 mana.

The cooldown time is 30 seconds.

Weight: 9

[Intermediate Strength Potion]

It is a potion prepared by blending a small amount of ogre's blood with different types of herbs.

Increases your strength by 50 points for 5 minutes.

There is no cool down time.

Weight: 31

[Intermediate Intelligence Potion]

It is a potion prepared by blending a small amount of Fire Salamander blood with different types of herbs.

Increases your intelligence by 50 points for 5 minutes.

There is no cool down time.

Weight: 31

Maribel and Elysia also looked interested at the stall of this youngster, especially the red-haired woman who got closer to the vials, and actually tasted some of them by dipping her finger inside, to the distress of the youngster.

"Not bad at all. Intermediate Potions." observed Maribel, something that Vecna already checked by using his System Identification.

Finally, Vecna's fingers stilled on a set of vials, his decision was made. His voice, low and devoid of unnecessary embellishments, broke the silence caused by Maribel returning to his side and settling around them.

"Twenty Medium Health Potions, twenty Medium Mana Potions, ten Medium Strength Potions and ten Intelligence Potions. How much?"

The Alchemist Apprentice hesitated for a moment, his gaze flickering between Vecna's crimson eyes and the vials he had chosen. A shrewd calculation passed through his expression before he responded, his voice carrying the undertone of a skilled merchant.

"For that quantity, 1500 gold."

Vecna's response was a single nod, an acknowledgment of the price that matched the quality of the potions. Without ceremony, he produced a small pouch from his inventory, its contents glittering in light. He poured the coins onto the counter, the metallic clinking echoing in the air as he counted out the agreed-upon sum.

As the Alchemist Apprentice gathered the coins and handed over the vials, Vecna's crimson gaze met his, clear interest on the Vampire's side as he studied the features of this youngster

Casper, as he was called, didn't seem to belong from some rich family based on his attire, nor was his behavior something that made you think he was privileged. He should be a commoner striving to become a Mage and Alchemist.

"Make them worth the cost."

The young alchemist nodded fervently, his determination palpable. "You have my word, sir. These potions are of the highest quality."

"I know, otherwise why would I buy them? Work hard for your journey, young Alchemist. I'm sure we will meet again in the future."

As they resumed their journey, Vecna's thoughts already moved on to his next objective, which centered on the silver-haired girl walking shyly by his side.

"Next spot, it's the Armorsmith." mentioned Vecna, a destination that held the promise of new equipment for Elysia.

However, the sudden stop caused by Maribel crashing into his back brought the conversation to a momentary halt. This is when Maribel suddenly crushed onto his broad back, reminiscent of their 'intimate' times as she liked to call them.

"Ouch. What now? Do you need some blood?"

"Maybe next time. What I want is something else. A reminder for you."

"This journey wouldn't be of much help for you, Maribel. So I will ask you this. Do you want to join me and Elysia or stay inside Valoria?"

"You want to say that I can remain inside Valoria? Can I get a place to work on some ideas?"

"It depends if this is what you want. I can rent a Mansion with the money I have, and also give you some funds for your experiment. That's it if that's what you wish." Vecna responded, his voice measured.

"Let me think…" Maribel's voice trailed off as she pondered her decision, her gaze distant, expression serious as he had rarely seen before.

After a moment of contemplation, the red-haired beauty turned her gaze back to Vecna, a calm smile gracing her lips.

"I think I'll stick around with you, Blood Master. What servant would I be if I leave my Lord to be devoured by some ugly Orc?" She chuckled lightly, a hint of her distinctive humor in her tone.

"Jokes aside, I'm kind of tired of being holed by walls. It will be a change of scenery if I follow you two."

"Besides, I wouldn't wish to leave Elysia with a beast like you. She needs my support when it comes to satisfying your Hunger." Maribel added with a wink.

"Do as you wish. I already expected that answer from your mouth. Now, let's end those preparations." Vecna replied, his tone carrying an air of finality.

Sorting another question on his mind, that of Maribel's Status, went about to outfit Elysia with suitable equipment. The bustling streets of Valoria offered a variety of shops to explore, each holding the potential to enhance her defenses and abilities.

Their first stop, however, took an unexpected turn. Vecna attempted to fit Elysia with knightly armor. Nothing wrong initially in his thought process, NPCs should be capable of wearing anything.

Right?

He was about to find out how wrong he was about this, but this experience also left him with a pleasant taste in his mind.

As they entered the shop filled with an array of armors, Elysia's eyes widened in awe at the various pieces on display. Vecna observed her fascination with a faint smile, his own gaze shifting over the assortment of armor sets.

'She likes them. Good. Besides, Mages should be stationary while casting. Having Extra-Armor for them is always the best solution in Raids.'

Curiosity eventually led Elysia to a particularly impressive knightly armor, ornate and imposing. With a determined gleam in her purple eyes, she decided to give it a try. The curvaceous beauty stepped into a private fitting area, her lithe form disappearing behind the curtain.

Vecna's gaze involuntarily followed her, a subtle change in his demeanor noticeable as he waited outside the fitting area while Maribel had a perplexed look. He had seen countless forms, but Elysia's figure seemed to hold a captivating allure, a harmony between grace and beauty that was hard to ignore.

Moments passed, and the curtain rustled. Emerging from behind it was Elysia, struggling somewhat in the heavy knightly armor. The metal plates seemed almost comically mismatched with her lithe frame, emphasizing her curves in a way that drew Vecna's attention.

The armor's chest plate accentuated her ample bosom, the curves of her waist and hips further accentuated by the armor's design. Her movements were slightly awkward as if the armor was too foreign for her body.

'Gosh. She's hot. No wonder in Fantasy Stories, Elven women are Top Tier picks for guys.'

Vecna's gaze intensified, the attraction he felt for Elysia's form sparking a fire in his crimson eyes. The sight of her in the armor evoked a primal appreciation for her femininity, her curves, and contours leaving an indelible mark on his senses.

'Huh. Let's calm down before I get a boner. If I haven't got one already.'

Elysia, seemingly unaware of the impact she was making, turned toward Vecna with embarrassment, after all, he was the first man to see her so vulnerable. "I think this armor might be a bit too much for me, Vecna."

Maribel couldn't help but facepalm and let out a cough of exasperation. Her voice dripped with amusement as she intervened.

"Alright. Enough games for you two. You're treating her like a tin can, Vecna. A sexy tin can. She's a Caster for Dragin's Name, also a Sentinel. You should aim for something more akin to the Automatons you've faced." (#A/N: We'll later on learn more about Dwarven Pantheon)

Vecna's lips quirked into a faint smile, his tone slightly teasing. "Indeed. It was my mistake thinking she could go into combat with the Heavy Armor."

As Elysia removed the armor with a sigh of relief, Vecna's eyes lingered for a moment longer before he shifted his gaze away, a mix of desire and restraint warring within him.

"We'll find something that suits you better," he assured her, his voice carrying a gentle reassurance, unlike his cold indifferent tone.

Elysia's lips curved into a faint smile, appreciating his attempt to provide her with suitable gear. "It's alright, Vecna. I don't need heavy armor, just something functional."

Vecna's eyes softened as he nodded, acknowledging her preference. "My bad, Elysia. Let's change the location. Not far from here is a Tailor Shop, we might get something for you."

Soon with an understanding of the locations of the Grand Market of Valoria City, where all sorts of Shops and Workshops could be found, along the Stall Area, the trio found their way inside a clothing boutique.

'Hopefully. This time the clothes would be something she can use.'

'Ahem. Who would think that NPCs have the same restrictions as us players. Maybe not to the same extent as us since she could still wear that Knight Armor, but it respects a specific guideline.'

'If the Character is a Caster, you have to wear Cloth-Type or at least Leather-Type?'

'Tsk, but if you have in possession a Legendary Armor as a Caster, why couldn't you wear it? This is so fishy.'

'It's forcing you to sell it for some lucky asshole with money to flaunt its abilities.'

As they entered the tailor shop, Vecna relinquished the task of outfitting Elysia to Maribel's capable hands. He knew that Maribel's experience and guidance would lead to a more suitable choice of attire for the silver-haired mage.

"Maribel, I leave you in charge of gearing up Elysia. As her Elder, you should be more experienced in what would fit her, unlike me. A Monster.'

Maribel's eyes gleamed mischievously, a knowing smile dancing on her lips. "Ohh, that's sensible of you. Don't worry, I'll make sure that Elysia smithens you after she comes out of the cabin."

Elysia's cheeks flushed with embarrassment at Maribel's teasing remark. She shifted slightly on her feet, trying to find solace in Vecna's mesmerizing crimson eyes that were already focused on her. The intensity of his gaze made her heart flutter, and she offered him a shy smile in return.

She trusted Maribel's guidance and found comfort in Vecna's protective presence

After long, some might say intense minutes for Vecna, in the cozy interior of the tailor shop, Elysia stood before the mirror, her silvery hair cascading over her shoulders as she patiently awaited the tailor's expertise.

The soft glow of the shop's warm lighting highlighted her delicate features and gentle curves. Beside her, Maribel watched with a hint of amusement as the tailor worked to find the perfect ensemble for her.

"Alright. You really have Royal Blood in your veins, little Ely. Better not disappoint all of Aunt's hard-work on finding your best look."

"... Isn't this too much? What if the Guards catch up to us?"

"What are you worrying about, girl? You must not be aware, but that guy waiting outside silently is capable of turning upside down this entire city if he so chooses. Even in his current state, he could massacre most of the Guards."

"And you mustn't forget, Ely. I'm still the Empress of Battle Gear regardless of the vessel I choose."

The tailor brought out various fabrics and designs, each one draped over Elysia's form as she turned this way and that.

When she stepped out of the cabin, Vecna's expressionless face was immediately captivated by the new scene. With an observant mind, he began appreciating the way the fabrics clung to her figure, accentuating her graceful lines.

'She's really something. It's been a while since I felt my heart beating like this.'

He found himself lost in thought, the playful banter between Elysia and Maribel a distant murmur in the background.

"What do you think, Vecna?"

Elysia's voice brought him back to the present, her laughter tinkling like a melody. The tailor in works with Maribel Craftsman touch had selected a mage's robe that perfectly complemented her ethereal beauty. Its flowing lines and intricate embroidery added an air of enchantment to her presence.

With a final adjustment, the tailor stepped back, nodding in satisfaction at the result.

"My Lady, if I may ask? Are you by chance a Renowned Tailoress from Titan?" asked the middle-aged tailor, impressed with someone else, that being Maribel who showcased her expertise over clothes and items in general.

"Nothing of that sort, young man. This is just a small hobby of mine."

Meanwhile, Elysia walked closer to Vecna who got on his feet, doing a twirl, where the dress began swirling around her like a cascade of stardust. Vecna's eyes sparkled with approval, his lips curving into a rare smile as he admired the elegant mage before him

"Looks like you've found your new attire," he remarked, his tone lighthearted.

Elysia's cheeks colored slightly, but she met his gaze with a playful glint in her eyes. "Indeed, I think this will work perfectly for my spellcasting. Maybe even some Archery if time allows it."

"Well, it's good that you've found something to your liking. But the price shouldn't sting me too much either."

Maribel heard his worry, and interjected. "They aren't magically Enchanted yet. Maybe in the future I'll look into them and Enchant them with some Runes."

After a series of choices and considerations, Elysia emerged from the tailor shop looking both comfortable and elegant in her new attire. The tailored mage robe and accessories not only suited her class but also highlighted her natural grace and beauty. The ensemble was a perfect balance between functionality and style.

Vecna's gaze lingered on her, an appreciative nod signaling his approval.

Elysia's cheeks tinted with a soft blush, but she met his gaze with a newfound confidence. Maribel, standing by Elysia's side, couldn't hide her satisfaction at the outcome either. Her teasing grin indicated that she had made sure to pick the perfect outfit to enhance Elysia's charms.

As they stepped out of the shop, Vecna took a moment to assess the current state of his gold balance. The numbers had diminished by a sum of 8,500 gold due to the expenses of outfitting Elysia.

However, he considered it a worthy investment. Elysia's safety and effectiveness in battles were crucial, and the new attire would undoubtedly contribute to that, if only she wouldn't wear her dark-cloak like she was afraid of the plague.

It irked him that he felt like exterminating all of the Corrupt Guards of Valoria City. But consciousness drew him back, he wasn't at an appropriate level to take on the entire Valoria City Guards since they for sure would tag along to save their 'comrades' and their Commander.