The sun began to rise, casting a soft golden glow over the city of Summit's Crest. The air crackled with a mixture of excitement and unease as the impending Orc War approached.
Vecna, known for his enigmatic confidence, entered Mayor Reginald Thornfield's office with his usual air of poise. The room, filled with administrative documents and an undercurrent of urgency, stood in stark contrast to Vecna's composed demeanor.
Vecna gracefully walked into Reginald's office, his presence commanding attention. The atmosphere shifted subtly, the air tinged with an otherworldly energy. Mayor Thornfield, aware of Vecna's arrival, rose from his seat and greeted him with a respectful nod.
"Ah, Sir Vecna, it is good to see you," Mayor Thornfield greeted, trying to maintain a composed demeanor.
Vecna's crimson eyes locked onto the mayor, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Mayor Thornfield, I trust you have the latest report on the guilds' response to the 'Heroes Call.' I am keen to hear the current state of affairs."
The mayor motioned for Vecna to step closer, his voice lowering to a whisper. "The Guilds have shown remarkable initiative. They've rallied their forces and are already preparing their strategies for the upcoming conflict."
"Unnecessary, but continue."
"Yeah, it seems the call to arms has struck a chord within our town."
Vecna chuckled softly, his voice like a velvet whisper. "That's what some honeyed words can do for a broken individual. Give them work, and they will answer your calls."
"Would you like a report? I've specifically asked that the bureaucrats make each Guild and Squad leader sign contracts as accepting the call for our Quest. I have everything here ready, as you can see," Mayor Thornfield offered, presenting a neatly arranged stack of documents.
Vecna's smile widened, an almost predatory gleam in his eyes. "Excellent maneuver, Mayor. Let me see how many of those proud individuals joined our cause."
Vecna's piercing crimson eyes scanned the report, the numbers sparking his interest. A sly smile played on his lips, exposing the sharp fangs that marked him as a vampire. His excitement was palpable, a sign of the cunning strategy brewing in his mind.
"It seems the tide may be turning in our favor. By night I would want you to assemble the Guild Leaders and Squad Leaders. Without a doubt we can proceed with the next phase of the War Campaign."
"Already?" Mayor Thornfield questioned, surprised by the urgency.
"That's right, but for that we shall decide on a comprehensive plan to tackle the Orcs head-on. Don't forget to have Eldric participate in this meeting, so those Guilds and Adventurers know who is the one in charge."
"Aren't you the one leading this fight?" Mayor Thornfield inquired, a hint of confusion in his voice.
"Me? I'm but a Shadow. I'll let Eldric take on the spotlight and showcase his leadership and charisma. While, I'll make sure that my plan doesn't fail because of those idiots thinking they are the protagonists to their story."
Impressed, Vecna commented in satisfaction, his voice tinged with a hint of amusement. Mayor Thornfield, noticing the ominous glint in Vecna's eyes, couldn't help but feel a sliver of concern. "Is everything in order, Sir Vecna?"
Chuckling softly, Vecna's eerie laughter reverberated through the room. "Oh no, Mayor Thornfield. Quite the contrary. The response has exceeded my expectations."
Mayor Thornfield nodded, his gaze reflecting a mix of apprehension and determination.
Vecna, having concluded his conversation with Mayor Reginald Thornfield, gracefully exited the office. The sunlit corridors of Summit's Crest Town Hall seemed to bend around him, shadows conspiring to elongate his silhouette as he moved with ethereal grace. The atmosphere seemed to shiver with his departure.
As he reached the threshold of the Mayor's office, Vecna paused, his head turning ever so slightly toward the closed door.
Though his eyes were obscured by the brim of his hat, the intent behind his gaze was palpable. It was as if he could sense the lingering doubts that clung to Mayor Thornfield, doubts that echoed in the very air of the room.
'What do you think, Lamech? Will they backstab me in the end? Rat me out to their Duchess as some monster wanting to take over their punny little Town?'
{"Unlikely. Their reaction of being almost vigilant around you is normal. As a Vampiris, you're the natural predator of Humans. Imagine a predator cooperating with their prey, a wolf among sheeps, obviously the sheep will go crazy in panic and fear."}
'Makes sense. It happened to me at times that people would get scared of me without even doing a thing.'
The mayor's administrative staff, going about their duties in adjacent rooms, couldn't help but feel a chill run down their spines.
The ominous aura that enveloped Vecna seemed to seep through the walls, leaving an indelible mark on the atmosphere. Even those who hadn't witnessed the exchange between Vecna and the mayor could sense that something otherworldly had transpired.
'See. Just like this.'
{"Get used to it. What's with that sour expression?"}
'... I wanted to be a Hero.'
{"Bah, you? A Hero? That's some nonsense you just sprouted. You're not destined for such nonsensical callings. Your path will be carved by many bodies that you will have to slay and step upon."}
'What you just said is turning around corners, instead of saying 'Get used to being a Villain.'.'
{"Amusing. You think you're a Villain?"}
'Am I not?'
{"Relax, young thrall. You haven't even plunged in Madness. You haven't wiped out millions of lives, or sacrificed that many for a mad desire for power. Besides, the concept of Good and Evil is nonsense in itself. It's just something human minds use as a consciousness compass to lead you based on the beliefs of others."}
{"Evil? Good? Bullshit. Don't you think this world is Cruel? Homo Vampiris are so superior to Sapiens yet, looks at us being required to lower our position."}
'What do you mean?'
{"There's only one truth that I know. That I, as a Vampiris, also have to survive, and this implies I have to feed on humanoids. That's only because of the Curse that Master hadn't broken at that time which restricts our survivability."}
{"As Vampiris, the reason we need to feed on humanoids is because our body can't create by itself an enzyme detrimental to our survival."}
'That's something I haven't heard before. So, that Hunger I feel? Is the level of that enzyme declining?'
{"Exactly. Thankfully, you're not a maggot and can comprehend what I tell you. This Enzyme found from extensive research under Master Caine resulted in being called 'Crutchfield Factor"}
{"This 'Crutchfield Factor' is an essential component for our Vampiris survival and functioning. It acts as a crucial catalyst in our neurophysiology, enabling complex cognitive and perceptual abilities that by far surpass those of humans."}
'And this enzyme can only be found in humanoids?'
{"That's right. These genes, are found exclusively on the hominid Y chromosome"}
'Interesting situation. Besides, this sounds taken out from a Sci-Fi. But since I'm in the same camp, let me bounce some ideas with you. I don't have a PHD or something fancy, however, wouldn't it be possible to synthesize this protein artificially?'
{"Good question. We thought of doing that, we even started some research in that direction, but because of lacking resources and our Race being attacked from all directions, we didn't see the reason to put resources into the research."}
'Heh, you had too much food throwing itself at you guys, so you abandoned all logic into clearing this problem. Calling me lazy, you guys might be chronically lazy.'
{"Yeah, sure. At least, did you understood our Vampiris plight?"}
'The gist of it. Ultimately, the concept of good and evil for you guys is a complex matter. You… We view ourselves as predators driven by a primal need, however, this still possesses opportunities for introspection and moral contemplation.'
'Whether we choose to embrace this predatory nature or transcend it, our understanding of good and evil remains intertwined with the inherent essence of what we are. Vampires.'
While Vecna was having a serious discussion with Lamech, one of the first Vampires in this World, he could feel instinctively the fearful glances of the administrative staff passing past.
'It's time, I take my leave and proceed with my plans.'
With a final, enigmatic glance at the Mayor's office, Vecna's form seemed to waver, and in the blink of an eye, he was no longer there. The space he occupied moments ago now hung vacant, leaving the staff to exchange uneasy glances.
Unbeknownst to them, Vecna had reappeared just beyond the exterior of the Town Hall Building.
Positioned in the shadows cast by the grand structure, he surveyed the surroundings with an almost predatory awareness. The bustling activities of the town square continued, oblivious to the mysterious figure that lurked nearby.
Back inside the Mayor's Office, with Vecna's departure, Reginald slumped back into his chair, his fingers tapping nervously on the polished surface of his desk. "I can't help but feel a sense of unease, Aldred. Are we doing the right thing in allying with a Devil?"
Aldred Norwood cleared his throat, his calm and composed demeanor contrasting sharply with the Mayor's visible distress. He approached Reginald and stood by his side, trying to offer some reassurance.
"Reginald, I understand your concern, but we have weighed all the possibilities and the consequences of our actions," Aldred replied, his voice steady. "We have chosen the lesser of two evils, Mayor. Despite granting him control over Summit's Crest, there haven't been any reports of him abusing his temporary authority."
Reginald sighed heavily, a mix of weariness and doubt etched across his face "I understand that, old friend. But you must also understand the risks involved. Vecna is a Vampire, you might not know it, but I do have some information from my predecessors."
"My great grandfather, the First Patriarch of the Thornfield house was a renowned Vampire Hunter when the Vampire Race brought Chaos upon the Lands."
"From what it looks like, people have already forgotten their terrifying nature. They only see humans as food, and nothing else. And Vecna? He clearly is someone of a High Status as a Vampire based on his appearance and demeanor."
Norwood, slightly older than his friend, allowed Reginald to spoke his mind, before he felt like chuckling, as if his worries were brought from something ingrained in his bloodline. "You bring some prejudice in this conversation, old friend. From what I observed, the Vampire isn't interested in turning Summit's Crest into his feeding ground."
"Two months have passed since their arrival, and no cases of people being hunted by a monster have reached you."
Reginald looked down while tapping nervously on his desk, as he continued to speak to Aldred. "How can we trust a being that preys upon humans? How can we be sure they won't turn against us?"
Aldred gave Reginald a sympathetic look, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "I admit, Reginald, that this is uncharted territory for all of us. But we have been in dire straits for far too long to complain about suspicions. The Orc's attacks have ravaged our lands, and the people look for us for leadership. Vecna comes as an assurance for us as Leaders of the Township."
"We shouldn't act against Vecna and create divergences in his plans, since they are sound. Proof is the diminishing attacks of the Orcs and Goblins at our borders. The situation reached a stalemate, for how long? I don't know."
Reginald straightened his shoulders, a newfound determination emanating from within after listening to the sound mind of his advisor and friend. "Very well, Aldred. Let's proceed by planning the meeting with the 'Cursed' Leaders."
"It should be easy, just issue the Messengers to deliver letters to them. However, once the gather up, don't give them too much attention. I've seen them and you'll only get annoyed."
"What do you mean, Aldred?"
"Most of them are ignorant and fools to their status in society… Sigh. Just know that you might get insulted by some maggot. Yet… We need every capable hand in this war. Sir Vecna likely sees them as pawns to weaken the Orcs," Norwood advised, his voice carrying a sense of wisdom and practicality.
Reginald offered a small smile, relieved a bit on the shift in atmosphere, but he couldn't help lamenting, "My reputation will be tainted when news reaches the Court of Her Grace. Once the war is over, I fear I may be stripped of my mayoral position."
"We can't predict what the future holds, my old friend," Norwood reassured, his words offering a steady reminder that in times of war, alliances with the most unconventional figures might hold the key to survival.
As they continued on with their work, a shadowy figure was moving with an outstanding speed toward the rugged elevated terrain of the Travian Sierra.
Vecna moved with unmatched speed, effortlessly gliding across the rugged terrain of the Travian Sierra. His black cloak billowed behind him, creating an eerie spectacle against cloudy sky at the high altitude. Each step levitated him above the ground, leaving no trace of his presence as he raced towards the Orc Camp.
'Open World Map.'
As he reached a vantage point, Vecna's hand moved to his side, fingers deftly manipulating an unseen interface. The air around him shimmered momentarily as the System's Interface materialized before him, projecting the expansive World Map of the Western Continent.
The map sprawled out with intricate details, showcasing the diverse landscapes and territories.
Vecna's crimson eyes narrowed as he focused on the region of Travian Sierra. His gaze penetrated the digital representation, seeking the specific location of the Orc Horde Camp, a piece of information garnered from Arthur Vinespine.
In the cold winds of the Mountains, Vecna observed the topography of the terrain, analyzing potential routes, chokepoints, and advantageous positions. His strategic mind worked tirelessly, calculating the best approach to strike at the heart of the Orc threat.
'Before they reach Summit's Crest, I can organize the Elite Guilds into forming parties and ganking on the Orcs.'
'Mhm. Guerrilla Tactics is a sound choice in this circumstance.'
"Show me the Orc Horde Camp location," Vecna commanded, his voice a low murmur that only the virtual interface could register.
A marker blinked into existence, indicating the approximate location of the Orc Horde Camp. Vecna's eyes gleamed with a predatory glint as he committed the information to memory.
The contours of the landscape and the position of the camp became etched in his mind, forming the basis of his tactical considerations.
Vecna descended the rugged terrain with a grace that defied the harshness of the landscape. The Travian Sierra echoed with the distant growls and roars of the Orc Horde, unaware of the impending threat that glided silently towards them.
Approaching the outskirts of the Orc Horde Camp, Vecna melded seamlessly with the shadows, his dark cloak blending with the natural dimness of the surroundings.
He crouched low, keenly observing the movements and patterns of the Orcs within the camp. The crude structures, bonfires, and the constant hustle and bustle of the Orcish horde painted a chaotic yet organized picture.
'They're not bad. High numbers of heads for certain. It is as Arthur mentioned in his report.'
{"What are you thinking? Don't tell me you're intent on attacking head-on the Orcs?"}
'As if. Don't take me for some suicidal maniac. I have some class while conducting my destabilization acts.'
{"Okay, but how do you get inside? Soaring Leap will leak your presence. The New Ability you got from that autonomous system implemented in the Artifact, is used as Sensory Ability, not Movement Type."}
'Blood Sense? Nah, I got something else to play it safe. It's exactly in this cloak I'm wearing.'
{"Mhm, does it contain another Shadow-Type Spell? That Archdemon probably is cursing you to Heaven for the losses he incurred."}
'I guess, he should be still petty about it since he showed up when Maribel crafted Zytherion.'
Approaching a little closer to the camp, just enough so the Orcs could enter into his sensing field.
{"Are you using that Ability? Don't overextend yourself, or your presence might be felt by the Casters."}
'That wasn't mentioned in its description… Why are you guys leaving out so many important infos related to skills?'
Vecna, positioned at the edge of the Orc Horde Camp, decided to activate his formidable skill, 'Blood Sense.'
As he channeled the dark energies within him, a surge of power emanated from his core. The air crackled with an otherworldly intensity, and Vecna's senses expanded, reaching out like tendrils into the surroundings.
The world transformed before Vecna's eyes. A crimson hue bathed his vision as the 'Blood Sense' skill unfurled its capabilities. The camp, once shrouded in shadows and mystery, now revealed itself in intricate detail. Every living being with blood coursing through their veins became a beacon on Vecna's mental map.
The outlines of Orc warriors, shamans, and leaders materialized in his mind, each marked with a pulsating red glow indicating their life force. It was a surreal sight, as if Vecna could perceive the very life essence that fueled the Orc Horde.
'Unravel yourself. Show me their Health Gauges.'
The skill not only granted him the ability to sense the presence of beings within a 500-meter radius but also provided valuable information. Numerical indicators representing the health values of the Orcs hovered above their spectral forms. This visual representation allowed Vecna to gauge the strength and vitality of each individual within the camp.
As he observed the Orcs' health values, a grin played on Vecna's lips. The intricacies of their hierarchy and the potential weak points in their defenses became apparent. It was a tactical advantage that he intended to exploit fully.
This feature turned the skill into a multifaceted tool, not just for reconnaissance but for swift and strategic maneuvering.
With his newfound insights, Vecna's mind became a mental map of the Orc Horde Camp. He traced the pathways, identified key figures, and calculated the most advantageous route to achieve his objectives.
As Vecna prepared to step deeper into the Orc Horde Camp, his eyes glowed with a malevolent gleam. The dance of shadows had evolved into a symphony of blood, and Vecna, the orchestrator, moved with calculated steps, guided by the unholy rhythm of his 'Blood Sense.'
.
[Blood Sense – LV.1]
Rating: Epic
[Allow the caster to sense and accurately detect all beings with blood in 500 meters radius
*Allows the caster to view the health value of an enemy
* Allows the caster to gain bonus movement speed when an enemy's health in nearby vicinity falls below 60%, with the bonuses increasing as their health falls further.
* Does not apply to the undead
Skill Mana Cost: 100 per second
Skill Cooldown Time: None]
.
A sly smile played on Vecna's lips as he contemplated his next move. He decided to linger at the border of the camp, his form shrouded by the Cloak of Shadows. The time was ripe for reconnaissance, and Vecna intended to exploit every advantage.
Taking to an obscure location shrouded in shadows, he reached behind his back, unveiling the unique cloak known as the 'Cloak of Shadows.' This dark, ethereal garment exuded an aura of secrecy, and as he donned it, a surge of otherworldly power enveloped him.
'Let's have some fun. This ability can fuck with people's mind so badly. I had fun messing around with the peasants in Summit's Crest.'
'Activate Phantasm.'
Taking a deep breath and focusing his gaze, Vecna activated the 'Phantasm' skill embedded within the cloak. As he did, a subtle distortion in the air surrounded him, and suddenly, illusory duplicates of Vecna materialized around his form.
These phantasmal clones mimicked his every movement, creating a mesmerizing display of ethereal doppelgangers.
{"If you weren't a Vampiris, you couldn't use three Doppelgangers since your mind would be taxed."}
'True, it is hard to describe it, but it feels normal to have so many views stuck inside one central screen. It's as if I'm playing multiple characters at the same time.'
{"I'm not aware with your analogy, but you seem to get what I mean."}
The Orc Horde Camp, unaware of the intrusion, continued its chaotic routine. Vecna, now concealed by the illusions, seamlessly blended into the shadows.
His agility surged as the cloak responded to his intent, allowing him to move with an unmatched grace that defied the laws of perception.
The illusory Vecnas weaved through the camp, drawing little attention as they moved like specters in the shadows. The 'Phantasm' skill proved invaluable, creating confusion among any Orc who happened to catch a glimpse of the elusive infiltrator.
Vecna, with his real form concealed among the illusions, approached clusters of Orcs engaged in conversation. The illusory copies dispersed, spreading throughout the camp to eavesdrop on various discussions. Vecna's keen intelligence and intuition guided the illusions to key points where valuable information might be exchanged.
As the illusory Vecnas gathered intel, the real Vecna remained in the periphery, absorbing the conversations like a silent observer. The 'Phantasm' skill granted him the advantage of being virtually undetectable, allowing him to gather information that might escape even Arthur Vinespine's keen ears.
.
[Phantasm]
Rating: Unique
Phantasm is a powerful illusionary skill that allows the user to create convincing phantasmal duplicates of themselves.
These illusory copies mimic the user's movements and actions, making it incredibly challenging for enemies to discern the real user from the fakes. The skill is best employed during combat or when evading pursuit, providing a versatile advantage to the user.
* The Phantasm can't deal damage to enemies.
Skill Consumption: 45 MP/sec (once the Skill is Canceled, the Cooldown will begin)
Skill Cooldown: 15 minutes
As Vecna ventured deeper into the heart of the Orc Horde Camp, his 'Blood Sense' skill continued to guide him through the labyrinthine pathways. Shadows clung to him like loyal companions as he overheard the guttural voices of the Orcs conversing in their native tongue.
The Orcs, unaware of Vecna's presence, gathered in a crude assembly near the central area of the camp. A massive throne, carved from the bones of defeated foes, served as the ostentatious seat for their Warchief, Gorruk Bloodmaw. The discontent among the Orc warriors was palpable, their gruff voices rising in a chorus of frustration.
"Bloodmaw sits on his throne like a toothless wolf! We should be tearing through the human settlement by now!" growled one particularly disgruntled Orc, his tusks jutting out with each uttered word.
Another warrior, adorned with scars from battles past, spat onto the ground in disdain. "Aye, Krugg is right! Gorruk's lost his edge. We need a Warchief who thirsts for blood, not one who cowers behind stone walls!"
Vecna, concealed in the shadows, strained to understand the Orcish conversation with his 'Goblin Tongue Skill.' The guttural language proved challenging, but he managed to catch the essence of their discontent.
"He sits idle, scheming with the pink-skins who crawled into our territory! I heard it with my own ears," proclaimed a grizzled Orc, suspicion etched on his weathered face.
A ripple of murmurs spread through the gathering as the Orcs exchanged glances filled with skepticism and mistrust. The notion that Gorruk Bloodmaw might be colluding with the humans struck a nerve among the warriors.
"Perhaps the humans offer him shiny trinkets and soft beds. Gorruk might be dreaming of living like a human, feasting on their fat cattle and taking their women for himself!" suggested a brutish Orc with a wicked grin.
Vecna, hidden in the shadows, listened intently. The Orcs' conspiracy theories painted a vivid picture of their leader's supposed betrayal. It seemed that Gorruk's perceived inaction had fueled rumors of treachery, creating a breeding ground for dissent within the Orc Horde.
Vecna, while multitasking like the monster he became, not yet concluding his reconnaissance within the Orc Horde Camp, found a moment of respite to attend to other matters.
'How much is this idea fueled by the Yatan Church members? Ahh, right, she probably has added me to her friend list. Let me check.'
His crimson eyes flickered with an otherworldly glow as he accessed the interface of his System. With a swift manipulation of unseen energies, he brought forth the familiar layout of his friend list.
The digital display materialized before him, showcasing an array of names, icons, and status indicators. As he scanned through the list, a notification pulsed at the top of the interface, drawing his attention.
[User 'Yura' has requested your friendship] (Accept/Decline)
Vecna's fingers, adorned with sleek, black gloves, hovered over the holographic options presented by the System's interface.
As he considered Yura's friend request, the ethereal glow of his [Mithril Braces] caught the ambient light. These braces, crafted from the legendary metal known for its strength and resilience, adorned Vecna's forearms, offering both protection and a touch of sophistication to his ensemble.
The intricate craftsmanship of the braces was evident in the fine etchings and detailing, showcasing the exquisite workmanship that went into their creation. The mithril's silvery sheen complemented the overall darkness of Vecna's attire, creating a harmonious blend of style and substance.
'Oho, I can see my fiery Archer leveling up quite a bit from our previous transaction. The same goes for the Mage Diva, this Tzedakah Guild is promising. Worth investing in them to garner their favors.'
'Tsk, so many names sending their requests… That's why you don't become a public figure. Now I got to spend 5 minutes purging all of those requests and mails.'
After a while his finger was clicking nonstop on (Decline) without even switching an emotion from the names of 'Celebrities' that wanted to connect with him. 'Let's see what Yura has in store for me.'
A subtle smile tugged at the corners of Vecna's lips as he recalled their brief but intriguing conversation. Yura was no ordinary player; she had a role to play in the unfolding events of his strategic maneuvers.
While Vecna typically disregarded friend requests to avoid an inundation of unwanted connections, Yura held a unique position in his grand design.
Acknowledging her as a priority piece in his intricate chess game, Vecna selected 'Accept' without hesitation. The digital prompt vanished, replaced by a subtle acknowledgment that the friendship request had been approved.
With the acceptance, Yura's profile information unveiled itself to Vecna's scrutiny. He perused the details she had chosen to disclose, information strategically shared for public recognition and ranking adjustments. Class, Level, Affiliation – these were the rudimentary pieces of data that players willingly exposed to shape their image within the game world.
[Yura - LV. 197 | Class: Black Magician | Affiliation: Yatan Church | Guild: None]
Vecna's crimson eyes scanned the information with keen interest, each detail a potential clue in the larger puzzle. Yura's role in the unfolding narrative was becoming clearer, and Vecna assimilated this knowledge into his mental repository of strategic insights.
'She dropped in rankings to only 7th. Well, considering the fact she's doing this Long Chain Quest and will participate in the future chaos, her level will settle comfortably to top 5 or 3.'
Satisfied with the additional layer of information at his disposal, Vecna closed the friend list interface, allowing the virtual display to dissolve into the digital ether. The subtle smile lingered on his lips, a silent acknowledgment of the calculated moves being made in the shadows of the game.
Vecna's silhouette melted seamlessly into the shadows as he navigated the sprawling Orc Horde Camp. The illusionary duplicates created by the 'Phantasm' skill moved in tandem with him, weaving through the chaos of the camp unnoticed.
His steps were soundless, leaving no trace of his presence, a testament to the meticulous control he exerted over his vampiric abilities.
The virtual interface projected a mini-map before Vecna's crimson eyes, revealing the layout of the Orcish settlement. Primitive huts and bonfires dotted the landscape, creating a scene of organized chaos. As he approached the designated location, the markers on the mini-map guided him toward Arthur Vinespine's encampment.
'Arthur, my unwitting informant. Let's see how well you've adapted to the Orcish way of life.'
Vecna's thoughts resonated with a sense of intrigue as he neared the area where the prodigious son of the Vinespine Family and his companions were stationed. The 'Phantasm' clones dispersed slightly, fanning out to gather intel discreetly, while Vecna himself retained his central position, ready to converge the illusions at a moment's notice.
As he entered the outskirts of the encampment, Vecna's heightened senses picked up the distinct sounds of Orcish dialects and the clattering of makeshift weapons. The air was thick with the scent of primitive living, and the flickering light of bonfires cast dancing shadows on the rough-hewn structures.
'Let's locate Arthur.'
Vecna's gaze swept across the encampment, and soon, the mini-map highlighted the presence of Arthur Vinespine. He was situated near the central bonfire, engaged in conversation with a group of Orcish warriors. Their coarse language, punctuated by Arthur's attempts to communicate, filled the air.
'Davian, especially recommended Arthur for this job… So, he was the one who previously approached them to assist him in destroying Reginald.'
'Not bad, this guy has great adaptability.'
The 'Phantasm' clones, acting as silent observers, hovered near different points, capturing snippets of conversation and assessing the overall atmosphere of the encampment. Vecna, in his concealed form, moved with eerie grace, navigating the crowded space without drawing a single glance.
As he closed in on Arthur, the Aura Master seemed to sense an unusual presence. His gaze flickered toward Vecna's direction, but the illusory duplicates in the surroundings created a visual puzzle that left Arthur's instincts in doubt.
'Greetings, Arthur Vinespine.'
Vecna's voice echoed in Arthur's mind, a telepathic communication that bypassed the need for spoken words. Arthur's eyes widened briefly, realizing the source of the voice. He turned slightly, acknowledging Vecna's unseen presence with a subtle nod.
I trust the Orcish hospitality hasn't been too overwhelming for you and your companions.'
Arthur, still adjusting to the unfamiliar surroundings, replied mentally, 'We manage. The language barrier is the biggest challenge, but we're making progress.'
Vecna's illusionary form approached Arthur, the Phantasms mimicking his movements with seamless precision. The 'Phantasm' clones stationed themselves discreetly, eavesdropping on Orcish conversations and monitoring the dynamics within the encampment.
'Your adaptability is commendable. It seems you've formed quite the diplomatic ties with our green-skinned hosts.'
Arthur's mental response carried a wry tone, 'Diplomacy might be a generous term. More like survival instincts kicking in. These Orcs are a formidable force, and we don't want to be on their bad side.'
Vecna's ethereal laughter reverberated in Arthur's mind. 'Wise choice. But let's not forget the real reason you're here. Information, Arthur. I hope you've gathered insights that will be of use to us.'
'We have. The Orcs seem to be in disarray, with internal conflicts brewing. Currently the two factions inside the Orc Camp are at a tipping point. One is centered around the Current Warchief, Gorruk Bloodmaw, while another group is centered on another Chieftain of a powerful Clan, this monster is called Dal'rend Blackhand.'
Vecna's interest sparked at the mention of Gorruk Bloodmaw and his 'Rival' Blackhand. 'Interesting. Dissension in the ranks. Tell me more.'
As Arthur delved into the details of the Orcs' internal strife, Vecna absorbed the information with a predatory focus. The mini-map displayed crucial markers—key figures, potential allies or threats, and the general layout of the encampment.
The 'Blood Sense' skill silently worked in the background, providing Vecna with real-time updates on the health values of the Orcs within his proximity.
'So, the Yatan Church has Blackhand in their pockets from your observations.'
'Not only Blackhand, all of the Leaders allied with Blackhand. Their relationship is so overcomplicated that I had to do a lot of mental gymnastics to understand their standing. It seems that Blackhand wasn't satisfied with being spared in their fight for the Warchief Position, and has signed his Soul with the Demons for power.'
Not visible to anyone but Arthur Vinespine, Vecna thought for a moment, before telling the Aura Master to prepare his companions and be ready to escape from the Orc Camp at any sparks of conflict in the air.
With that, Vecna's presence retreated into the shadows, the 'Phantasm' clones converging and dissipating as if they were mere wisps of darkness.
The encampment remained oblivious to the clandestine exchange, and Vecna, once again shrouded in mystery, continued to navigate the Orc Horde Camp,
In the midst of Vecna's telepathic conversation with Arthur Vinespine, his mental focus attuned to the internal strife within the Orc Horde Camp, a subtle notification disrupted the seamless flow of his thoughts. The notification glowed in the corner of his vision, signaling an incoming message.
[You have received a message from your friend 'Yura'.]
Vecna, with his characteristic poise, allowed a fraction of his attention to shift towards the holographic interface. A translucent window materialized before him, revealing the sender's name—Yura.
#Yura: I got almost fooled by you, scammer. How could you boast of being able to deal with this Episode when you're only a low-ranker. Barely reaching level 135, you'll just destroy all of my hardwork in building my reputation inside Yatan Church.
#Yura: You got to explain yourself, before receiving any information about Neberius from me.
Vecna's lips curved into a sly smile as he absorbed the inquiry. The question, though seemingly straightforward, held layers of implication. Yura, with her perceptive nature, was probing beyond the surface, seeking answers to the enigma that was Vecna.
'Women… They always like to nag about things so insignificant.'
His fingers, almost instinctively, danced in the air as he composed a response while maintaining his telepathic link with Arthur.
#Vecna: Level is but a number, dear. It conceals more than it reveals. Perhaps, with time, you'll understand that the way you 'High-Rankers' look at this World is wrong.'
#Yura: Continue lying, and I'll block you.
'...'
As he prepared to leave the vicinity of the Orc Horde, his destination shifted towards the looming presence of the Yatan Church Camp. The tendrils of his influence reached out, unseen threads connecting with the Yatan Church's web of secrets.
Vecna, the elusive puppeteer, continued to pull strings in the shadows.
'This bitch, she is itching for a fight. Since I'm in the vicinity, let's get you out of the camp and show you who's boss.'
{"That would be foolish. It's better you don't act now, or all of your plans will go down the drain."}
'Ohh, no. If I want to, I can manipulate her into showing up only by herself.'
{"Intriguing."}
'Women minds at times can be complex, but in the grand scheme of things they are easily manipulated when you know how to approach them.'
Continuing his advancement while in Enemy Territory, he didn't forget to 'entertain' Yura's banter, explaining to her how easily it would be for him to defeat her in a PVP, and that proudful mindset of a High-Ranker would be meaningless against the Strong.
Their gap can be breached so effortlessly with only a Strong Class or while being Overgeared.
Yet, she was held bent on not saying any information about Neberius only to quickly be cornered by Vecna, who would ask her what it would need to prove himself.
#Yura: Look. I'll give you information about Neberius with only a condition. Have this NPC 'Arthur' disappear from the Orc Camp. It's related to a Quest of mine that gives some generous rewards that would be a shame not to receive.
#Yura: If you can do this, I might share the contents regarding Neberius.
#Vecna: Might. What If's. Those words are quite annoying, let me think about. Will I profit over this or not?
Thinking carefully as he was moving out of the Orc Camp, particularly choosing the adjutant location to where the Yatan Church Camp was positioned, he wasn't missing much from having Arthur depart immediately.
'This isn't damaging at all for me. Since Arthur is due to depart soon.'
#Vecna: When do you want him to leave?
#Yura: As quickly as possible. But, we need to make a scene where I fight against the Aura Master and the Yatan Church members watch it. Otherwise… I got nothing at hand if I don't return with his head.
#Vecna: You're asking a lot for so little in return. To think you would be so shameless.
#Yura: Are you the one to say that? Hmph, you only got honey words. Can you do it or not?
#Vecna: Easily. But, now the scale of gains has turned upside-down. Neberius in the end is only a Black Magician and I can easily gauge his skills once I fight him. I only wanted to get his info from you so I wouldn't waste additional resources and time.
#Yura: I assure you, the information I have on Neberius has never appeared on the Forums. I'm among the small group of users that have access to the Yatan Servants.
#Yura: Will you do this, or we quit on our deal and alliance?
#Vecna: Hahahaha, I will remember this, Yuna. Let's do it at midnight. Gather your group of Cultists, but be aware that I will only leave out one member alive.
#Yura: What for? This is just a fake fight
#Vecna: Ohh no, no. We'll have a fight. Our story needs to be compelling for the Monster to believe it. Don't you think so?
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