Development Planning (2)

"I discovered a special fire, but there is an entity that is too strong for our current level," Devin explained to Alex as he recounted the encounter with the magma karst.

"Right now, it's not something we can handle. However, at least we have some news so I don't have to keep running everywhere. All we need to do is get stronger," concluded Alex.

"True, if we level up coupled with the strength of the two elder dwarves, we should be able to deal with that flood dragon," Devin agreed.

Alex then mentioned the commotion that Devin's hints on the forum had caused. "Do you know how much chaos your words have caused?"

"It doesn't matter. That's what I wanted to happen, so that more people can level up quickly and the advantage of the big families in the Federation can be reduced a little," Devin replied.

Alex expressed his concern about the impact of Devin's words on Oasis. "I just don't know how much of an impact your words will have on Oasis."

Devin reassured him, saying, "The system of Oasis should welcome it. Besides, it has always rewarded people more for accomplishing these kinds of things. That means it is welcome."

Alex then revealed a change of plans. "I was originally going to go to Elysium with you and Ethan, but after seeing the dwarves' ship, I have decided to stay with the dwarves and learn more about forging skills from them."

Devin accepted Alex's decision. "Since it's your choice, I support you."

They maintained a comfortable silence for a moment before shifting their attention to other things.

The next day, Devin and Elijah ventured into the bustling bazaar of Serene City, a place alive with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and the lively chatter of its patrons. Among the sea of stalls and vendors, their sights were set on finding the renowned spice merchant, Ravi. With his reputation for crafting exotic blends, Ravi held the key to unlocking the tantalizing flavors they sought to add to their salt.

Together, they made their way through the maze of stalls and eventually spotted Ravi's stall. His array of jars and pouches showcased an assortment of spices, mesmerizing in their vibrant hues and rich fragrances. Ravi, with his seasoned face and sharp eyes, looked up from his inventory as they approached.

Taking the lead, Elijah confidently stepped forward, his amiable smile mirroring his excitement. "Greetings, Ravi. We've heard tales of your extraordinary spices. We are in search of something truly exceptional, a spice that embodies the essence of delight."

Ravi arched an eyebrow, his gaze curious yet discerning. "Well, well, you've come to the right place. I have just the spices you're looking for."

Elijah nodded, his admiration evident in his voice. "Indeed, we have heard that your spices are unique and exceptionally grown."

Ravi leaned against the wooden counter, a playful tug at the corner of his lips. "Well, it seems you have done your research. In that case, there's not much to say. Come in and see if what you want is available, and if it meets your needs, we can discuss the price."

Excitement danced in Devin and Elijah's eyes as they stepped into Ravi's shop, marveling at the plethora of spices before them. Although the market appeared to be experiencing a lull, the duo shared a knowing smirk, confident in their role as Ravi's potential biggest customers. They anticipated that their bulk purchases would warrant favorable pricing.

In Ravi's shop, Devin and Elijah decided on five flavors to infuse into their salt: black garlic, peppercorns, ginger, habanero, and rosemary. These choices promised to elevate their salt blends to new heights, tantalizing the taste buds of their customers.

With negotiations underway, Elijah and Ravi delved into discussions about the prices of the spices. "Ravi, we seek a long and prosperous partnership with you. This is not a one-time deal; it's a long-term contract," Elijah asserted.

The thought lingered in Ravi's mind. These spices were not fast-moving goods, as most people were unaware of how to utilize them. However, signing a long-term contract would bring stability and a steady income stream for his business. Deep in thought, Ravi began to see the benefits of the partnership Elijah proposed.

As the negotiation progressed, Elijah and Ravi meticulously discussed the particulars—price per kilogram, required volumes, and tailored delivery schedules to accommodate the demands of their salt production. The conversation flowed smoothly, guided by a shared understanding of their respective roles and objectives.

With the negotiation reaching its conclusion, Ravi's satisfaction shone through his smile, his eyes reflecting a mutual excitement. "I must admit, you gentlemen have impressed me with your attention to detail and vision. This partnership shall undoubtedly spice up the salt industry."

Elijah reciprocated the smile, overflowing with gratitude. "Thank you, Ravi. We are truly honored to embark on this venture with you. Our customers will have the pleasure of experiencing a heightened flavor profile, courtesy of the essence of your spices."

Ravi's favorable opinion of Elijah and Devin increased, a testament to their professionalism and enthusiasm. With Devin's title securing them a favorable discount and a few pleasantries exchanged, the deal was concluded. Their partnership forged, their dreams of revolutionizing the salt industry one savory blend at a time were now within their reach.

Devin entrusted the task of procuring iron to Gaz, knowing that the elder dwarf had a knack for acquiring the best materials. The apparent simplicity of the dwarves masked their shrewdness.

Elijah, on the other hand, headed to the merchant guild to register himself, eager to increase his game level.

Meanwhile, Devin and Alex made their way to the adventurer guild to register both Neil and Elijah, ensuring they could reap the benefits of guild membership. As they entered, they encountered an adventurer with a distinctive mark on his eyes.

"Yo Alex, are you still interested in joining us?" the adventurer asked.

"Not this time. I am quite occupied during this period. Captain Jerry, this is my brother Devin," Alex introduced.

"What a shame. We could truly benefit from your skills," Captain Jerry lamented, exchanging greetings with Devin.

"Captain Jerry, I have a favor to ask," Alex stated.

"What is it? If I can assist you, I will not hesitate," Jerry replied.

"We are hoping to hire a retired adventurer who is in need of work. We would like their expertise to help train young individuals in combat and wilderness survival," Alex explained.

Jerry contemplated for a moment before responding, "There is one I know of, but I'm not sure if you would be interested in employing him."

"What's the matter with him?" Devin inquired.

"Due to an encounter with a dangerous beast, he sacrificed his own safety to save his team members, resulting in the loss of one of his eyes. Losing an eye can be a significant handicap in the wilderness, so he chose to retire," Jerry elaborated.

"What is he doing right now?" asked Alex.

"He has become a hunter, hunting low-level beasts to survive. He sells them to restaurants for a small sum of money," Jerry replied.

"We would like to meet him and see for ourselves," Devin expressed.

"Don't worry, you won't be disappointed. I can certainly testify to his character," Jerry assured them as he led Devin and Alex towards the retired adventurer's home.

They navigated their way through an alley where lower-income individuals resided. Jerry knocked on the wooden door. "Captain, are you at home? It's me, Jerry," he called out.

A man wearing an eye patch over his left eye answered the door in a gruff voice. "What do you want? I told you not to disturb me."

"Captain, I am not here to disturb you. I brought my two friends who are offering you a job," Jerry responded sheepishly.

The man's gaze shifted towards Devin and Alex, and he nodded, motioning for them to come inside. The house was tidy, with minimal possessions.

"Captain, this is my brother Alex and his brother Devin. They are here to offer you a job as a trainer," Jerry introduced.

"Hello, Captain. I'm Devin, and this is my brother Alex," Devin introduced themselves to the stoic-looking man.

"You can call me Ledley. I am no longer a captain," the man replied.

"Well, Mr. Ledley, Captain Jerry has told us about you. We are looking for someone to help train the people in our village in combat and wilderness survival," Devin explained.

"As you can see, I only have one eye. Are you sure you want to hire me?" Ledley questioned.

"Mr. Ledley, you don't need to worry about that. I can see that the fire of a warrior still burns within you. You are perfect for this job because your experience will also teach them to never give up on themselves," Devin assured him. He wasn't exaggerating; he could sense the powerful level 50 aura emanating from Ledley, surpassing even Jerry's.

"Where is the location of the training?" Ledley inquired.

"It's at Sun Haven Village. If you were to take this job, it would be full-time, and we would provide accommodations and food," Devin answered.

"I've never heard of Sun Haven Village," Ledley admitted.

"It's one of the islands not far from Serene City, where a small village is situated. I happen to be the village leader," Devin revealed.

"And how much is the remuneration?" Ledley asked.

"The standard salary for an adventurer is ten gold coins per month," Devin replied.

"Give me some time to sort things out here, and then I will make my way to Sun Haven," Ledley agreed.

"Now that Ledley has agreed, we need to both sign a contract at the Adventurer Guild. Captain Jerry can be a witness. Additionally, there's a ship that comes from Sun Haven to Serene City every week, so Ledley can follow that ship back to the village," Devin explained.

Ledley, being a straightforward person, quickly agreed, and they all headed to the Adventurer Guild to sign the legally binding employment contract.

With their errands complete, they made their way back to the village, carrying all the supplies they had purchased. Devin and Neil headed to Stone Village to exchange the supplies for pearls and magic crystals, which they would need for the factories and their trip to Elysium.