Chapter 3 The Guides

Henry and Swift entered the towering building known as Sunrise Union Hundred Man Crystal Collection. The grandeur of the establishment was evident as they approached the beautiful receptionist, who greeted them with a warm smile.

"Good afternoon, Miss Swift," the receptionist welcomed them.

Henry wasn't surprised by the reception Swift received. She was a renowned player, well-known in gaming circles. The receptionist softly dialed a number on her telephone and instructed them to proceed for the interview.

"Unfortunately, Swift, we are currently only recruiting for our suicide squad. Our crystal collection unit is not accepting any new members," the receptionist informed them.

The interviewer, a fashionable woman dressed in a sleek black suit with a matching pencil skirt and designer heels, was engrossed in typing on her computer, not sparing a glance at Henry.

"To be honest, Henry is an exceptional gamer, and his crystal earning capabilities are far beyond what you might expect," Swift spoke up with a subdued tone, trying to gain her attention.

However, the lady continued typing, seemingly uninterested in their conversation. A minute of silence passed, and Henry decided to take matters into his own hands. With courage in his eyes, he approached the interviewer from the other side of the table and looked directly into her eyes.

"If you're willing to recruit me for the crystal collection unit, I can earn at least 20 crystals per week," Henry confidently stated.

The interviewer was taken aback by his boldness. "What? 20 crystals?" she exclaimed, surprised by his audacity.

In the world of VRMMORPG, the game they were discussing, beta testing was essential before its official release. Only a select few were chosen for beta testing, and their experiences wouldn't impact the actual game.

For most regular players, reaching the end of the game seemed unattainable. Only a few skilled and experienced individuals could earn a handful of crystals each day, a meager amount compared to what Henry claimed.

Experienced players estimated that establishing a guild, a group of 100 members dedicated to the crystal collection, would require at least 100 crystals. Even if they worked tirelessly, without any distractions, it would take them a minimum of two weeks to accumulate that much wealth.

And yet, Henry had the audacity to state that he could earn 20 crystals in a week.

"Have you been part of the beta testing?" the interviewer asked suspiciously, her curiosity piqued.

"Trust me, he's capable of much more than what he's said," Swift intervened from the other side of the room, her voice filled with conviction.

The interviewer picked up her telephone and made a call. "Come over for a moment. Swift has brought someone for the crystal collection unit, and he claims to earn about 20 crystals per week. I suspect he may have found some sort of bug."

The woman had no choice but to inform her director about the situation. Within minutes, they heard hurried footsteps approaching the room.

They were all surprised to see a group of people, including Stone, the CEO of the Sunrise Hundred Man Crystal Collection unit, entering the room.

"Oh, come on, Swift. Don't tell me this boy is the one who claims to earn 20 crystals a week. I'm not even sure if he has the necessary experience. Show me some proof," Stone remarked skeptically.

At this moment, Swift fell silent, at a loss for words.

"Sir, I don't have any evidence, but please give me a chance. I promise you won't regret it," Henry pleaded earnestly.

Stone engaged in discussions with the individuals accompanying him, and after a brief conversation, he turned back to Henry.

"We will sign the contract, not because this young man pleaded, but because Swift has been a valuable asset to our Union. Let's go to my office," Stone declared with conviction.

Together, they walked into Mr. Stone's office and signed the official contract. Henry felt a surge of joy and gratitude as Swift had helped revive his dreams.

After completing the formalities, Henry received one of the Union's helmets, a necessary tool for immersing oneself in the VRMMORPG. They left the Union building, their spirits high.

"This calls for a celebration," Henry exclaimed cheerfully.

Swift smiled and replied, "Don't forget, you'll be logging in within the next ten minutes. No celebrations or alcohol just yet."

The Sunrise Crystal Collection unit was already at full capacity, but they welcomed Henry's addition. Along with signing the contract, Henry received one of the more affordable game helmets. Though it was considered inexpensive, it still cost him a substantial sum of $30,000, which was a significant investment for him.

"I think it's time; the guides are already waiting for us in the game room," Swift said, glancing at her wristwatch.

"What do you mean by guides?" Henry inquired, curious about this new term.

"Guides are a group of players selected by the Sunrise Hundred Man Crystal Collection Union to play VRMMORPG together and earn a substantial amount of crystals," Swift explained, taking hold of Henry's arm as they entered the game room together.

As they stepped into the game room, Henry noticed five beds, each adorned with a game helmet on top. The walls were decorated with captivating game-themed paintings.

Approaching the left side, Henry was surprised to see Thunder, his roommate, lying on one of the beds.

"Hello, everyone. This is Henry, and he will be joining us as a guide. Let's treat him like a brother," Swift announced, capturing everyone's attention.

"Can I quickly introduce myself to each of them before we put on our helmets?" Henry asked Swift, his voice composed and cool.

"Of course, but make it quick," Swift replied.

Henry approached the first person, extending his hand. "What's your name, young lady?" he inquired with a warm smile.

"Hi, I'm Lina. Swift has told me a lot about you, mummy's boy," Lina playfully responded before moving to her bed.

"Nice to meet you, my name is Steal," the second person introduced himself, shaking Henry's hand before settling into his bed.

Henry approached Thunder, excitedly extending his hand for a handshake. "Hey, bro, why didn't you tell me you play VRMMORPG?" he exclaimed.

"There was no need, bro," Thunder replied with a smile, accepting the handshake. He then reclined on his bed and placed his helmet on his head.

"I guess they might already be playing," Henry mused to himself as he donned his helmet and pressed the side button to initiate his virtual adventure.

Now, Henry was ready to embark on this thrilling journey alongside his newfound companions.