[QUEST REWARD:
-CONDITION (1): This would only be granted to the challenger with the highest contribution.
-CONDITION (2): The challenger with the lowest contribution wouldn't go empty handed as he would be granted a soul power double the amount of his contribution point or can use it to redeem gold coins at the exact amount.
–DEMONIC TROLL (Player)- 25,788 CONTRIBUTION POINTS
–LILITH (NPC)- 30,999 CONTRIBUTION POINTS]
[A/N: 25,788 Contribution Points, a form of currency in this world equivalent to real-world gold, equals $25,7880 (Han Jingzhi had indeed hit jackpot)]
"What the..." Han Jingzhi muttered, his eyes widening as he stared at the quest reward screen. The first condition, a harsh one, threatened to crush his hopes. But then, his gaze fell on the second condition, and a grin spread across his face like wildfire. He quickly redeemed his reward, the air shimmering as a cascade of gold coins materialized before him, each one a gleaming promise of a brighter future.
Half of his problem was solved. Han Jingzhi was so happy he laughed out loud, his joyous sound echoing through the desolate graveyard. He felt like he was going crazy, but in the best way possible.
Lilith, a powerful sorceress, watched him with a knowing smile. Her gaze lingered on the shimmering gold, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "So, money makes him happy," she mused, her voice a soft whisper. She, too, reached out, her hand passing through the dissipating dust cloud that had once been the Aluta Lich, a powerful undead creature that had been a threat for years. A faint, pulsating light swirled within the dust, and from it, a new form emerged – a skeletal puppet, bound to her will. Its crimson eyes, glowing with a malevolent light, seemed to fixate on Han Jingzhi.
"So, what's next?" Lilith asked, her voice filled with anticipation.
Han Jingzhi smiled, his eyes sparkling with newfound hope. "The Gresham Kingdom," he said. "We have a quest to complete, and a kingdom to save."
Lilith nodded, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Let's do it," she said. "Let's make history."
Later, as they left the desolate skeleton graveyard behind and journeyed towards the kingdom of Gresham, Han Jingzhi couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. He had found a friend, a partner, and a confidante in Lilith. The wind whipped at their faces, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. The path ahead was shrouded in mist, adding a touch of mystery to their journey.
"This main scenario quest, I wonder how it will go. What do you think, Lilith?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hint of apprehension.
"We need a plan, Jingzhi," Lilith replied, her voice deceptively calm, a hint of mischief lurking beneath her words. "I already have one, though you might not like it."
"I don't mind. Let me hear it," Han Jingzhi said, his gaze unwavering.
Lilith pulled out the skeletal puppet, its bony fingers twitching slightly. "This," she said, her voice low and deliberate, "He's a Lich, which means the more he kills, the more army he gets."
"That's quite easy, but don't you think we'll be missing something important?" Han Jingzhi questioned, a shadow of worry crossing his face as he realized the gravity of the situation. He tapped the quest screen, the notification flashing brightly.
[QUEST NOTIFICATION!]
[TITLE: THE GRESHAM KINGDOM'S CRISIS]
[DESCRIPTION: The Gresham Kingdom is in turmoil, threatened by rebellion and a power-hungry crown prince. Your quest: uncover the rebellion's motives, defeat the prince, and restore peace to the kingdom.]
[OBJECTIVES:]
1. Investigate the source of the unrest: The kingdom's stability is threatened by a growing rebellion. Uncover the motives behind this rebellion and identify its leaders and the hidden forces (cults) behind them.
2. Kill or defeat the crown prince Da Bai and stop the kingdom of Gresham from going through revolution and crisis.
[REWARDS:]
- Increased Influence: Gain a significant boost to your reputation within the Gresham Kingdom and would become a Viscount.
- UNIQUE REWARDS: Have access to the king's vault.
- POTENTIAL FOR ADVANCEMENT: The outcome of this quest may influence your future role in the kingdom.
-NOTE: This quest is time-sensitive. The longer the kingdom remains in turmoil, the more difficult it will become to achieve a peaceful resolution.
-QUEST STATUS: 'Pending']
Han Jingzhi sighed, closing the quest screen. "We'll need to investigate his movements and actions," he said, his voice heavy with the weight of the task ahead.
"Right," Lilith nodded, her eyes reflecting the seriousness of the situation. A tense silence descended upon them as they continued their journey.
"You're a sorcerer, right?" Han Jingzhi asked abruptly, breaking the silence.
Lilith chuckled, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "How did you know? You're quite smart, Jingzhi."
Han Jingzhi shrugged, a playful smile gracing his lips. "It's quite obvious from the way you cast spells."
"Oohh," Lilith nodded, her smile widening. "So, what's your plan, Jingzhi?"
"We'll need to meet Zhou Zhou and question him about the whole situation. After getting the whole picture, we'll formulate a plan," Han Jingzhi said, his voice firm and decisive.
"Cool!!!" Lilith beamed, her excitement palpable. "Jingzhi, can I ask you a personal question?"
"Sure, anything, Lilith," Han Jingzhi replied, his gaze meeting hers.
"Why do you like gold coins? Or are you a half-goblin?" she teased, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
Han Jingzhi's face turned serious, his playful demeanor fading. "I'm poor and have to fend for my family," he said, his voice laced with a hint of sadness.
"Ohhh," Lilith replied, her tone softening. "By family, you mean..."
"It's just my sister," Han Jingzhi said, his voice barely a whisper.
"Ohhh... Jingzhi, I'm dying to meet her. I sense a kindred spirit in your sister. Tell me more about her," Lilith said, her curiosity piqued.
"Hehe... don't worry, you'll be seeing her soon," Han Jingzhi replied, a faint smile returning to his lips.
As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the land, Han Jingzhi and Lilith finally reached the gates of the Kingdom of Gresham. The towering walls, adorned with intricate carvings, stood as a testament to the kingdom's rich history and enduring power. The air grew colder, carrying the scent of woodsmoke and distant cooking fires.
But on the inside the kingdom of Gresham was a place of stark contrasts. Its opulent palaces and bustling markets stood in stark contrast to the poverty and despair that lurked in the shadows. The air was thick with tension, a palpable sense of unease hanging over the city.
They ignored all of this and entered into a bustling inn, its warm interior a welcome respite from the chill of the evening air. The aroma of roasted meat and spiced ale filled the air, mingling with the chatter of patrons. After exchanging goodnight wishes, Han Jingzhi logged out, leaving Lilith alone in the dimly lit room.