Chương 77: Crafting the Demonic Sword
Yura's thoughtful expression gradually shifted into one of intrigue as she considered Vecna's offer. She was well aware that the path she walked was fraught with danger and uncertainty, and a potential alliance with someone of Vecna's caliber could tip the scales in her favor.
Vecna, observing her reaction, leaned in slightly, his voice hushed. "So, what do you say, Yuna? Are you interested in an alliance? Imagine the possibilities that await us if we work together. We could change the tide of events and shape the future of Satisfy World to our liking."
'His alliance proposal is enticing. If we manage to kill Neberius, the spot for a Servant will be available.'
'The amount of power and authority I would have afterward will be unfathomable. I'll have greater access to the Epic and Unique-tier Spells maybe even get my hands on some Legendary Tier once I climb the hierarchy.'
Yura remained silent for a moment, carefully weighing the potential benefits and risks of such an alliance. She couldn't deny the appeal of Vecna's proposal, but she also understood that this was a pivotal decision that could impact her standing within the Yatan Church and her own goals.
'However, how could he be so certain that his plans will work? Wouldn't the players get wiped in an instant?'
'Is the number that high to make him confident? Or is he one of the Hidden-Rated Classes? A compelling reason to not appear in the spotlight as a High-Ranker.'
After a thoughtful pause, she finally responded, her voice carrying a hint of cautious optimism. "Your proposal is intriguing, Vecna. I can see the advantages of an alliance between us. It could be a mutually beneficial partnership that leads to greater power and influence."
'Let's probe further.'
Vecna nodded, acknowledging her perspective. not minding that she continued to use his gametag. "Indeed, Yuna. Together, we could achieve great things. But let's be clear; this alliance must be built on trust and shared objectives. We should define our goals and establish a plan to achieve them."
Yura agreed with his sentiment, her tone resolute. "Trust is essential. We'll need to share information and support each other in our endeavors. As for our goals… If you don't backstab me, I have no reason not to cooperate."
Their conversation had shifted from a cautious negotiation to a more collaborative tone. It was a moment of revelation as they began to envision the possibilities of their alliance. The clinic's waiting area had faded into the background, and the two players were fully immersed in their strategic discussions.
Yura's expression softened as she considered the potential benefits of this partnership. "I'm willing to give this alliance a chance… Vecna, no, Adrian. I'll send you an email with Neberius's data, and the rest of the Church members that are inside Travian Sierra."
A subtle, knowing smile graced Vecna's lips as Yura agreed, her voice reflecting the trust they were starting to build. He was clearly appreciative of her cooperation. "Excellent, Yuna. I'm looking forward to the information you provide."
The conversation shifted from the weighty alliance to something more casual as Vecna decided to take a step beyond their digital personas. "Mhm, let's exchange information, IRL, since I'll not be inside Satisfy so offen, especially nowadays."
Yura's eyes sparkled with a hint of amusement at his straightforward request. "You're quite straightforward in asking for a girl's number."
Rolling his eyes, Vecna playfully retorted, "Well, why beat around the bush? Do you want me to act shy and innocent? Is this what Korean women like?"
Saying that with a hint of irony, he took out his phone activating a function on the phone that allowed an easy contact exchange. Seeing how Vecna was serious about contact exchange now that she agreed to an alliance, she didn't mind it.
Yura reached into her purse and retrieved her phone. She activated the contact-sharing feature, and both their phones emitted a confirming BEEP as they exchanged contact information.
"All good," Yura said, giving a small nod. "I'll add you to my friend list when I get home."
Vecna couldn't resist a sarcastic comment, "You'll have to wait until night for that, you know."
A bit of small talk followed, lightening the atmosphere between them. They exchanged a few more words about Satisfy and their interests before a subtle shift occurred. Yura's bodyguards, who had been searching for her, finally located her.
Yura excused herself from Adrian with a small smile. "It seems my bodyguards are here. We'll have another chat inside Satisfy."
She moved away from Vecna, while her bodyguards approached, and it was clear that they meant business. They were dressed in sleek, professional attire, and their demeanor reflected a sense of discipline and vigilance. Yura's grandfather, Lee Jinmyung, accompanied them, adding to the sense of formality.
For whatever reason, since they spotted their Young Miss talking casually with the blonde westerner, the bodyguards assumed strategic positions around her. As if to show off in front of the blonde 'bastard' who dared to talk with Yura. But when they glanced back at Vecna they saw him shift to talk with the young girl next to him as if nothing happened.
Her bodyguards maintained their watchful stance, ready to intervene if necessary, although the humorous interaction between Yura and her grandfather seemed to defuse any tension in the air. Lee Jinmyung eventually acquiesced to her command, his stern expression softening as he was led away by Yura.
As Yura's group departed from the clinic, they left Vecna alone in the waiting area, and the ambiance returned to its usual hustle and bustle. The diverse mix of patients, families, and medical staff continued their activities, unaware of the significant conversation that had taken place in their midst.
He couldn't help but smile as he contemplated the possibilities of the alliance he had just formed with Yura. But his contemplative mood was soon interrupted by a voice that brought his attention back to the present.
It was Silvia, Vecna's younger sister and one of his trusted confidantes. She had observed the entire conversation between Vecna and Yura, and her curiosity was piqued. With her sharp wit and intuition, Silvia was quick to engage her brother in conversation.
"Brother," she began, her voice soft yet filled with curiosity, "are you, by any chance, one of the strong players inside Satisfy? I've heard that the top players are like celebrities, and Yuna seems to think highly of you. Are you also one of them?"
Vecna leaned back in his chair, the corners of his lips curling into a mischievous smile. He enjoyed the playful banter with his sister, and her question provided an opportunity for him to reveal a bit more about his true identity in the game.
"Hmm?" he mused, feigning a sense of mystery. "You're asking if I'm strong? I wonder too."
Silvia rolled her eyes at her brother's evasive response, clearly not buying into his act. She knew him well and was aware that he often downplayed his abilities even in reality.
"Come on, brother," she teased. "No need for modesty. I can tell there's more to you than meets the eye. Yuna wouldn't be so interested in collaborating with just anyone."
Vecna chuckled, his mysterious facade slipping slightly. He appreciated Silvia's perceptive nature and decided to share a bit more with her. After all, she was one of the few people he could trust implicitly.
"Find out for yourself. And, no… I'm not a celebrity, since you don't see me surrounded by people in all directions."
Silvia nodded, understanding that was Vecna's style of playing into her inquisitive mind. She had always been supportive of her brother's endeavors, whether they were within Satisfy or their real-life family responsibilities.
With the matter settled for the moment, Silvia and Vecna continued to enjoy their time together in the waiting area. Silvia's inquisitiveness remained, but she knew when to respect her brother's boundaries.
As they chatted about other matters, the dynamic between them was a mix of sibling camaraderie and mutual trust, further strengthening the bonds that tied their family together.
Meanwhile, outside of NEOM's Health Institute, the East Asian group led by the elderly figure, slowed down when they were picked up by a flying transportation capsule accessible only by the VIPs of the City.
"Grandfather. I hope the nanobot therapy session went well. Are you feeling better?"
Lee Jinmyung grumbled good-naturedly, his wrinkled face breaking into a smile as he looked at his granddaughter. He was a man of advanced age but with a youthful spirit, his eyes filled with pride as he regarded Yura.
"I've never been fond of these modern treatments, Yuna," he replied, his voice carrying a hint of old-world charm. "But if it keeps me healthy enough to see you succeed me, then I'll endure it."
Yura couldn't help but chuckle at her grandfather's stubbornness. She knew he was fiercely protective of her, and his disapproval of her interactions with Vecna was thinly veiled.
As their journey back to their accommodations continued, Lee Jinmyung couldn't resist the urge to express his concerns about Yura's recent conversation with Vecna. He had been watching the entire interaction from a distance, and his worry was evident.
"I noticed that you were talking with some nobody," he began, trying to choose his words carefully. "These handsome young men with their fancy talk, they can be dangerous, you know. They break the hearts of young maidens."
Yura felt a pang of embarrassment at her grandfather's words. His concern for her was genuine, and she couldn't fault him for it. She had often been the target of unwanted advances, both in the real world and within Satisfy. She couldn't deny that Vecna's charisma had an effect on her, but she also knew she needed to assert her independence.
With a sigh and a hint of embarrassment, she gently grabbed her grandfather by the ear, playfully scolding him. "Grandfather, you worry too much. I can handle myself, and I won't let anyone break my heart."
Lee Jinmyung winced but couldn't help but smile at his granddaughter's spirited response. He had watched Yura grow into a strong and capable young woman since her parents died in an airplane accident, and he knew that she had a determination that matched his own. He squeezed her hand affectionately.
"Very well, Yuna," he conceded. "I trust your judgment, but remember that your well-being is my utmost concern."
Yura's heart swelled with gratitude and love for her grandfather. She knew that the path she walked was filled with danger and uncertainty, but with her family's support and her own determination, she would do everything in her power to succeed in Satisfy, forging her own destiny and leaving a legacy worthy of her grandfather's pride.
.
Back to the Clinic, Vecna accompanied his mother, Elena, as they slowly made their way out of the clinic's reception area. Elena had just completed her nanobot therapy session, and her condition had improved compared to yesterday.
As they walked together, Elena's steps were more confident than when they had arrived. The nanobot therapy had a rejuvenating effect on her, reducing the pain and fatigue from her liver sickness. Her health had been in decline, and the treatment offered a glimmer of hope for a better quality of life.
Vecna smiled at his mother, genuinely relieved to see her in higher spirits. "How are you feeling, Mother?" he inquired, concern evident in his voice.
Elena turned her head to face her son and offered a warm, albeit slightly weak smile. "I feel a bit numb, but not in the bad sense. The nanobots did their job. I'm grateful for your help, Adrian."
Vecna nodded, his emerald eyes filled with affection. "There's nothing to worry about, Mother. The procedure isn't painful since we're dealing with nanobots. The next appointment is tomorrow at 11 AM, and I'll make sure to take you there."
Elena couldn't help but be touched by her son's unwavering support. She had always been proud of the person Adrian had grown into, and his dedication to her well-being reaffirmed her belief in him. She gently squeezed his arm, expressing her gratitude.
As they walked, Vecna led his family to a lush green park that was located within the NEOM's Ward.
The park featured well-manicured lawns, serene ponds, and various species of flora that added a touch of natural beauty to the high-tech environment. A restaurant with a pleasant outdoor seating area awaited them.
Vecna made sure to take great care in selecting a table for his family, one that offered a comfortable view of the surrounding greenery. He was particularly cautious about Elena's food, ensuring that there were no ingredients that might trigger an allergic reaction.
Elena sat down, appreciating her son's consideration, and the rest of the family joined the table. Vecna's siblings, Silvia and Alex, took their seats, eager to explore the menu and make their selections. Silvia, was exceptionally calm and composed, a striking contrast to Vecna's typically stoic demeanor.
During dinner, they chatted and shared stories from their day. Silvia, who had witnessed the earlier meeting between Vecna and Yura, couldn't help but share this incident with Elena who initially panicked, reminded of her son's disorder that made him prone to manipulating and lying to people.
Yet, Vecna's words put her at ease. "It's related to work, and don't worry, mom. I'm fine, I haven't had an episode in years."
"Good, tell me when something bothers you. And, don't overwork yourself. Ahh, and be careful not to create a bad image of yourself with this girl you've got along with."
"Heh? It will be fine, mom. It's all professional."
Silvia couldn't quite decipher her brother's expression, but she was well aware of Vecna's ability to keep a multitude of secrets. She decided to respect his privacy and didn't press the issue further. Instead, she enjoyed her meal and cherished the time she spent with her family.
The evening at the park offered a rare opportunity for the Avramescu family to relax and bond.
Despite the complexities of their lives, they found solace in each other's company and the moments of respite they shared. After dinner, they returned to their hotel in Ward 88, where Vecna made his preparations for the night.
With a quick shower, a change of clothes, and a sense of determination, Vecna left his family for the Satisfy Capsule Hub.
The Satisfy Capsule Hub was just a short distance away, and he wasted no time making his way there.
Inside the dimly lit, high-tech capsule hub, rows of Satisfy capsules were neatly arranged. The machines were a mix of sleek black and silver, with faintly glowing lines of blue running along their surfaces, giving them a futuristic and somewhat surreal appearance. The subtle hum of machinery filled the room, adding to the atmosphere of immersion.
Vecna approached one of the unoccupied premium capsules and quickly activated it. The capsule's lid smoothly opened, revealing a comfortable interior lined with soft cushioning. Without hesitation, he stepped inside and allowed the capsule to close around him. The experience was familiar and comforting, much like a second home.
Once securely inside the capsule, Vecna initiated the login process. The world of Satisfy soon enveloped him, as his senses became one with the virtual realm. He was transported from the sterile capsule hub into the vibrant and diverse world of Satisfy.
He stood in the heart of Garret's Blacksmithing Workshop, a place he had logged out from earlier.
The workshop was filled with the ambient sounds of a busy smithy, with the clanging of metal and the hissing of the forge. It was a world of fire and steel, where countless items were forged, and Vecna's gaze was immediately drawn to Maribel.
As the digital landscape unfolded around him, Vecna found himself standing in Garret's Blacksmithing Workshop, the very place he had logged out from earlier. The workshop was dimly lit, with the sounds of metal clanging and the occasional hiss of a cooling forge filling the air.
As Vecna made his return in the workshop, he was instantly wrapped into a sense of anticipation and curiosity. The red-haired woman, once fabled as one of the best Craftsman of her generation, was showcasing her exceptional skills in blacksmithing.
"Welcome back, Vecna. Don't disturb Maribel's concentration, since she told me this will be an important step in the crafting process." explained Elysia who had a serious expression, as if drawn in by the passion Maribel was showing for her craft.
"Understood. Anything else that I missed? Demonic Power outbreak or the Blood Mana discharging from Knightsblade?"
"None… for now."
The workshop was filled with the rhythmic sound of hammering and the intense heat of the fire.
Sparks danced in the air, illuminating the room in a mesmerizing display. Vecna's red eyes glowed with excitement as he watched the intense demonic powers that would bring his power to another level.
Maribel poured her heart and soul into every swing of her hammer, meticulously shaping the raw materials. Time seemed to blur as the days passed. Maribel hardly slept, her singular focus honed on perfecting the Demonic Sword.
Her hands started to form calluses that swiftly regenerated with a monstrous speed, her body weary, but her determination remained unwavering.
Vecna too spent about 2 days watching Maribel work tirelessly on the Demonic Sword, and exactly after one week since the job was commissioned from her, changes started to occur inside Garret's Workshop who acted as Maribel's assistant.
"My Lady, is this what you warned me would happen?" inquired the middle-aged blacksmith with reverence in his eyes as he watched the crimson-haired beauty take a small break as changes ignited inside the shell of the blade.
"The Clash of Essences inside the blade has begun. You can withdraw to the side, Garret, only Vecna can approach."
As Maribel took a moment to catch her breath, a wave of darkness began to emanate from the Demonic Blade. The shadows crawled along the walls, enveloping every corner of Garret's Workshop. The once brightly lit room was now cast in a gloom that seemed to devour the light.
Simultaneously, a crimson aura engulfed the workshop, pulsating with raw demonic energy. It crackled and hissed, filling the air with an intense heat that made even Vecna, a master of blood magic, feel a sense of trepidation.
The clash of essences inside the blade intensified as the powers of Vecna's blood magic and the archdemon Camio's demonic power surged and collided within the shell of the blade. Each power fought for dominance, twisting and turning, seeking a balance that would unleash the full potential of the Demonic Blade.
Vecna approached the blade cautiously, his red eyes narrowing as he thought of all sorts of scenarios that might happen. He could feel the immense power within the sword, begging to be harnessed. Maribel's voice echoed in his mind as he remembered her instructions on how to subdue and control the conflicting powers.
"Bring forth your will, Vecna," she had instructed. "Command the essence of both blood magic and demonic power to bend to your command. Merge them, but restrain them. Make them your servants, rather than your masters."
"You have to bless the blade with a name to bring out its full potential."
With each step he took towards the blade, Vecna focused his thoughts, harnessing his dark expertise to subdue the chaotic forces within. His hands trembled slightly as he reached out to touch the blade, feeling the scorching heat radiating from it.
Concentrating, Vecna invoked his blood magic, allowing the crimson glow of his eyes to merge with the demonic aura surrounding the blade. As his powers mingled with the essence of the blade, he could sense the powers yielding to his control, bending to his will.
The darkness that had consumed the workshop began to recede, and the crimson aura transformed into a steady, controlled pulsation. Yet, it didn't take long that another presence hidden within the sword made its appearance.
["You've grown arrogant, foolish mortals. To think you'll dare to utilize my essence into crafting a Sword."]
The foreign voice had a sinister and malicious timber as if the world was nothing but a speck of dust in his eyes.
Maribel, hearing that voice, looked vigilantly around the Workshop, fully aware of who it belonged to, and turning her eyes at the Demonic Blade, she opened her mouth to warn Vecna about the newcomer, but he was one step ahead of her.
"I know what's happening. Don't worry, Maribel. He's not here in person."
["Lowly Thrall, you think you're safe in Theia, just because I can't descend with all of my might?"]
"Show yourself before speaking to me, Camio."
["As you wish. You better don't regret your choice."]
[Ding!]
['Archdemon Camio' has made his appearance!] (Red Name-tag) (#A/N: Red Name-Tags are given only to End-Game Bosses)
[The Effects of the Title 'Archdemon Vanquisher' has been triggered]
As the Archdemon Camio's will is manifested through the Demonic Blade, a dark and malevolent presence envelops the immediate surroundings. Whispers of despair echo through the air, causing an eerie chill to crawl up the spines of any who witness the unfolding manifestation.
At first, a subtle tremor ripples across the blade, as if the very essence of darkness and corruption within it is awakening. Suddenly, wisps of shadowy energy rise from the weapon, coalescing and swirling around it, forming a flickering aura of deep crimson and midnight black.
As the aura intensifies, the Archdemon's will materializes into a physical form. Camio's presence manifests as a towering figure, shrouded in dark, tattered robes that seem to flutter and flow as if caught in an eternal storm. His features are obscured by a wispy, smoke-like substance, making it difficult to discern his true face.
A pair of glowing, crimson eyes pierce through the smoky veil, radiating an overwhelming aura of malevolence and power. These eyes hold an ancient wisdom, reflecting countless eons of darkness and corruption. They seem to possess an otherworldly knowledge, capable of rending the minds of those who dare to meet his gaze.
From his very being, an iridescent mist forms, swirling with the essence of souls long lost to despair. It stretches outwards, snaking around the area, seeking to ensnare and consume anything within its reach.
["You seem to have grown a bit. But if you think you're up to my level, you're miserable."]
Camio's presence feels suffocating as if the very air has turned toxic and heavy with the weight of his malevolent influence.
Every breath becomes a struggle, filling the lungs with a rancid and putrid scent that defies description. The sound of his deep, guttural voice reverberates with a demonic resonance, filling the ears of all who hear it with dread and a realization of their own insignificance.
["This craftsmanship isn't so shabby. It might be up to Helmis creations."]
["This sword, belongs to me. I'll retrieve it back to it's true master."]
As Camio's will dominates the Demonic Blade, the surrounding environment becomes warped and twisted. Shadows elongate, becoming inky tendrils that writhe and twist with a semblance of life.
The ground cracks and fissures, revealing a dark abyss below that seems to beckon for unwelcome souls.
In the midst of his manifestation, Camio exudes an aura of absolute authority and dominance.
"You think too much of yourself, Camio. Enough with this bravado. You're only here with your Willpower." remarked Vecna in his calm, detached tone that was emotionless.
Camio who was holding onto the Demonic Sword wasn't affected by the revelation, in fact, he was curious as to how Vecna could know such advanced information that lowlife like him shouldn't be aware of now.
But he didn't have time to put forward this question since his surroundings were wrapped into a Blood Abyss, reminding the True Demon about the memory pieces he saw from his soul fragment after Vecna vanquished him.
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