Chapter 151: The Reaper’s Guild

Chapter 151: The Reaper's Guild

……

Huh??

Jie Fangcheng thought Lang Gu addressing him as "Lord" was already quite grating, little did he know that there were even more unbearable greetings in the world.

This is becoming awkward, isn't it??

Not just Jie Fangcheng, even the generally composed Zhang Dao’an couldn't help but have his pupils quiver slightly at this moment, involuntarily turning his gaze towards this "Crescent Blade" Yang Chi.

Facing the dumbstruck and speechless expressions, Yang Chi nodded solemnly, holding a blade in his arms, his voice particularly calm yet emanating an adolescent's forced attempt to portray a cool and suave character: "I have important matters to discuss with you."

If he had stopped at that, it would have been fine. However, after saying this, Yang Chi solemnly called out again, “Heartless Sword.”

Jie Fangcheng swiftly unsheathed his Heartless Sword, threatening, “Speak respectfully, or else you'll witness whether my sword lives up to its name or not!”

Clearly, someone able to maintain such adolescent pretentiousness in this terrifying game was no ordinary case. The moment Jie Fangcheng drew his sword, Yang Chi, who was just continuously uttering “Heartless Sword”, immediately changed his tone.

"Alright, Brother Jie."

Damn! That change came too quickly, didn't it?!!!

The crowd was agog and at a loss for words.

They seldom interacted with members of the Reaper's Guild. This guild maintained a self-sufficient state within the game. It wasn't that they always grouped exclusively with guild members for raids, but the Reaper's Guild lived up to its name — their numbers would dwindle before long.

They too adhered to the game rules, forming groups of no more than seven, and there was no shortage of lone wolves among them.

But a cursory look at the forums would reveal that many who raided with them came back with complaints. These guild members seemed to vanish once inside, and it was almost impossible to find them unless absolutely necessary, let alone understand what they were talking about when encountered.

Now, dealing with a member of this legendary guild, they were surprised to find that this perceptive individual didn't seem any different from the average player!

Yang Chi's abrupt change of tone caught Jie Fangcheng off guard, leaving him somewhat flustered. The sword in his hand wavered before he stowed it back into the system backpack.

"What's the matter?"

Despite Yang Chi's adolescent demeanor, he spoke clearly when it came to serious matters.

"Members of our guild entered the same instance as those from Ronghua. But recently, I've noticed that something seems off about this instance."

"Ah?"

Jie Fangcheng exchanged a glance with Zhang Dao’an.

Nie Shuangshuang and their group entered an instance named "God's Favor," consisting of over sixty individuals, all equipped with summoning items.

Jie Fangcheng and Zhang Dao’an had been preoccupied with other instances for the past couple of days. They assumed that with over sixty people in the group, any anomalies in the instance would be quickly reported through summons. Thus, they hadn't been overly concerned about potential issues in this instance.

Now, upon hearing Yang Chi's statement, Zhang Dao’an quickly made a decision.

"Let's go. We need to check the screen."

After exiting the instance, other players from different guilds gradually left, greeting them on their way out, with some even adding Jie Fangcheng as a friend.

At this moment, a group of five individuals, accompanied by a phantom, gathered around the live broadcast screen, quickly finding the "God's Favor" live channel.

The public instance broadcast followed specific players, and this time, the camera was focused on Wei Yuan.

From the footage alone, nothing seemed amiss.

The instance they entered appeared peaceful, with everyone donned in pure white robes reminiscent of ancient Greek attire. The robes were adorned with subtle golden and silver patterns, presenting a luxurious yet understated look. Jingling anklets added a touch of grace, even lending Wei Yuan, a rugged man, a gentle and tranquil demeanor.

It was currently nighttime within the instance, and Wei Yuan was seated in what appeared to be a chapel, his hands clasped together in prayer.

Around him, players adorned in similar attire could be seen everywhere.

The top right corner of the live broadcast screen displayed the current number of surviving players.

100/100。

They were on the third day since entering the instance, and they had yet to encounter any danger up to this point.

This is quite understandable.

A brief glance at the current live streams of the level five raids would tell you that it's normal for these raids to take over a week to complete, with the initial days being rather peaceful.

However, as he watched the scene, Jie Fangcheng felt an indescribable sense of discomfort creeping in, and Zhang Dao’an even pinpointed something amiss almost instantly.

"Are they engaged in a quest?"

Since exiting his universal instance, Yang Chi had been vigilantly monitoring the situation. Hearing Zhang Dao’an's query, he promptly nodded in agreement.

"Yes. Every evening, they come to the temple to pray and receive divine power."

Zhang Dao’an merely commented, "Quite devout," and Yang Chi immediately grasped that Zhang Dao’an had also noticed the anomaly.

"Exactly! Their prayer time is from 5:40 to 6:20 PM, but they only started leaving the temple in a staggered manner from 6:30 PM yesterday. Today—"

On the screen, the hands of the clock mounted on the wall gradually pointed towards seven o'clock.

Accompanied by the toll of the bell, the players immersed in their prayers finally snapped back to reality.

White candles flickered to life, illuminating a hundred players in white robes seated, seemingly reminiscing about the occurrences during their prayer.

Everyone was conversing with each other; although their exact words couldn't be heard, their expressions depicted a peace and tranquility rarely seen on the faces of infinite-flow players, as if they were not in a perilous instance but had contentedly returned to the real world.

Under normal circumstances, given the players' mentality, they would probably open their eyes swiftly the moment it turned 6:21 PM, and subsequently turn the temple upside down without hesitation.

However, their expressions seemed somewhat dissatisfied when they finally awoke, as if they were still engrossed in the prayer they had just performed.

As they left the temple, the players looked back reluctantly before heading together to the next location.

Yang Chi felt it even more distinctly.

"There’s no way members of our guild would be this devout. Even if they had faith, it wouldn't be of this nature!" he stated firmly, "My comrades... how could they worship something so mundane!"

Such a chuunibyou attitude, right?!!!

Even at a serious moment like this, Qi Chanyang couldn't hold back and crinkled his features together in an awkward grimace.

Zhang Dao’an responded quickly, "You sought Manager Jie with the intention of having him enter the instance to prevent this situation from progressing further, correct?"

"Yes," Yang Chi nodded.

Even without explicit mention, Zhang Dao’an would have devised some kind of solution upon noticing such circumstances.

But now that Yang Chi had voiced it, Zhang Dao’an nodded and extended his hand towards him.

Yang Chi paused momentarily.

Before Zhang Dao’an could explain, the young man reached out, firmly grasped Zhang Dao’an's hand, shook it vigorously, his eyes welling up with tears.

"I entrust this to you—‘Master of a Thousand Mechanisms,’ Zhang Dao’an!"

Zhang Dao'an: "..."

Zhang Dao'an: "............"

Snicker.

Uncertain of who let out a chuckle, Zhang Dao'an turned his head to see: Jie Fangcheng was looking up at the sky, Qi Chanyang was looking down at the ground, and only Lang Gu was standing there innocently, with not a trace of emotion on his face, completely failing to grasp the humor in the situation.

Zhang Dao'an withdrew his hand from Yang Chi's grasp, his face impassive, and extended it again in front of him.

"Compensation."

"Huh?" This time, Yang Chi was genuinely stunned.

Zhang Dao'an waved his palm slightly: "Fifty million per person."

"Wha-wha-what???" Yang Chi was petrified.

He had entered the universal instance on the very first day, completing the level one instance within two days.

This indirectly implied that his capabilities were not very impressive, or at the very least, his points were inadequate.

Fifty million per person?

In the "God's Favor" instance, there were sixty-three players from Ronghua, twenty-one from Death God, and the rest were either freelancers or members of other guilds.

Expecting Yang Chi to provide fifty million rescue funds for each person was an impossible feat, even if he sold himself.

"Ah..." At this moment, Yang Chi remembered the forum posts, "No, wasn't it twenty million?"

The clearing process of the "Digital Cruise" instance was well-known to everyone. That instance was also a level five, and it was said that the starting price for the necessary items was twenty million points. Why had the price surged in his case?

"Don't have it?" Zhang Dao'an withdrew his hand, "No funds, no rescue."

Yang Chi opened his mouth in shock, then opened it again.

Zhang Dao'an gazed at his incredulous expression and spoke calmly, "We neither know you nor are we friends. Why should we go out of our way to help? Hadn't you considered this before coming here?"

Yang Chi hadn't indeed thought about this, but at Zhang Dao'an's words, he nodded solemnly and said, "You're right."

Having said this, Yang Chi boldly pointed at the screen, "Then you can ask them for payment once you're inside. I'm broke."

This kid...

One could say he was irritating, assigning nicknames recklessly and seeking help without offering anything in return.

However, the Ronghua guild had established a firm reputation for being helpful over the years. Despite the cautionary tale of the "Digital Cruise," there were still many who wanted to seek their assistance.

Zhang Dao'an could already picture the slightly disappointed expressions of those people when they realize that assistance came with a fee, even though they brought points with them.

Yang Chi was not only undeterred, but also pointed out assertively after his statement, "That person, our guild leader, is at the top of the points leaderboard, very wealthy. And that one, our deputy leader, also affluent."

What an incredibly unique guild this is.

Yang Chi's innate nature left Zhang Dao'an with no room to display his sarcastic tone; watching Yang Chi detail things as though listing his family treasures, Zhang Dao'an interrupted him.

"No rush, let's go have a meal first."

"Oh, oh! Go ahead!" Yang Chi clasped a knife to his chest, striking a pose once again, "I'll wait for you here."

As the group left the player base, Qi Chanyang couldn't help but glance back once more as they reached the doorway.

Yang Chi was leaning against a pillar, now sporting a straw hat he had put on at some point, with a blade of grass dangling from his mouth. Holding a sword and dressed in a peculiar robe, anyone could tell at a glance which guild he belonged to.

However, with such a group of companions... it must be quite interesting, right?

.

The restaurant, once again.

This time, upon arriving at the restaurant, Jie Fangcheng refrained from making any bold declarations, and continuously used his chopsticks as soon as the food was served, finally satisfying his hunger.

To be honest, being whisked away every time they came to dine had left Jie Fangcheng somewhat apprehensive during meals, only breathing a sigh of relief after eating his fill.

After everyone finished eating, Zhang Dao'an even made a trip to the kitchen, returning with an unchanged expression: "Let's go."

Zhang Dao'an deliberately led them through a different entrance to avoid encountering Yang Chi. As everyone arrived in the main hall, Qi Chanyang was still pondering how to enter the instance.

Those inside the instance could call for help from outsiders, but players outside the instance lacked the items needed to communicate with those inside.

Zhang Dao'an, however, was well-prepared.

Reaching the control panel, he activated a special function of the universal instance – players outside the instance could transfer items to those inside during the universal instance period, albeit with a chance of item damage and a guaranteed skill downgrade.

Conversely, players inside could also transfer items and skills out, but both items and skills would be either completely damaged or downgraded.

This function was ferociously utilized by Ronghua members during the national guild event last year.

At this moment, Zhang Dao'an casually tossed in a common item, choosing to transfer it to Wei Yuan.

On the screen, Wei Yuan paused briefly upon receiving the item, quickly grasping Zhang Dao'an's intention.

Soon after, Zhang Dao'an received a call for assistance.

With a flash of white light, Zhang Dao'an was the first to enter the instance this time.

Wei Yuan wore a face of bewilderment.

"What happened, Brother Zhang?"

In the three days since they entered the instance, everyone constantly reminded themselves that this was a game instance, not a vacation.

But, one must admit, this instance is genuinely exhilarating!

Without the perpetual threat of creatures keen to pounce upon them for flesh and blood, without the grim and dilapidated surroundings, and the looming danger of meeting an untimely end at any moment.

Their special status has granted them privileges in the enlightened city, indulging in fine food and drinks daily, with plenty of time to complete their tasks, it's no wonder everyone has let their guard down a bit.

At this moment, Zhang Dao'an suddenly appeared, leaving Wei Yuan feeling somewhat puzzled.

Zhang Dao'an cast a glance at him without saying much, firstly using a summoning item to bring Jie Fangcheng into the scene.

"Hey!" greeted Jie Fangcheng.

Wei Yuan smiled, "Brother Jie, you're here too."

However, it’s good that he came. With both Brother Jie and Zhang Dao'an present, the danger level in this instance has drastically decreased.

With this thought in mind, Wei Yuan couldn't help but voice it out.

"Regarding this instance, it might be because we haven't been here for a long time, the danger hasn't started yet. It's good that you both are here, we can enjoy a few more days within this bustling city, and the food and accommodation are decent."

"Is the temple also nice?" Zhang Dao'an suddenly asked.

"Eh?" Mentioning the temple, Wei Yuan seemed somewhat embarrassed, "We know that place is a bit strange... but we're just getting started, right? No rush, we still have half a month left in this instance, there's plenty of time to explore the temple and look for clues later."

Saying this now, if the Wei Yuan from three days ago heard it, he would have probably reprimanded the person speaking those words.

Wei Yuan is usually a very cautious person, regardless of having half a month or even half a year left in the instance, his initial cautious nature would have prompted him to start looking for clues from day one.

Zhang Dao'an looked at him deeply, without adding anything more.

Over at Jie Fangcheng’s end, with the use of two summoning items, both Qi Chanyang and Yan Xiaohua also appeared in the instance.

Qi Chanyang hadn't expected to be summoned, and felt a bit sheepish upon entering.

With his limited capabilities, being brought in by Brother Jie clearly wasn't for him to shine and contribute in the instance; it was merely to leech some points.

Yan Xiaohua was also brought in casually.

However, after summoning both of them, Jie Fangcheng seemed to freeze for a moment.

"Speaking of which... does anyone have Lang Gu as a friend?"

Despite Lang Gu now being a part of Ronghua, Jie Fangcheng had known him from their corporate slave days. Yet, since they were in different departments, their relationship was neither good nor bad, simply acquainted due to long-term working proximity.

Lang Gu's timely appearances every time meant that Jie Fangcheng never took the initiative to seek him out, and thus never thought to add him as a friend.

As for Lang Gu, being a newcomer who had recently entered the instance and a veteran corporate slave in the netherworld, he never contemplated adding anyone as a friend.

After Jie Fangcheng finished speaking, everyone shook their heads in unison.

Zhang Dao'an, however, did not shake his head; he appeared to be in a rather good mood.

"Haven't added him, not acquainted."

"Ah." Jie Fangcheng scratched his head, then with a grandiose wave of his hand, he said, "No worries, he probably went off to enjoy himself by now!"

In the players' lounge, Lang Gu, dressed in red, stood silently beside the control console, waiting for the white light to summon him away.

One hour, two hours...

When a hint of confusion appeared in Lang Gu's eyes, the white light still did not appear.

Fortunately, Yang Chi was still outside.

While Lang Gu could stand motionless for three days and nights, Yang Chi, who insisted on maintaining a stylish pose, couldn't.

Unable to hold back, he first scoured the dining area, and upon learning that they had already left, he returned to the player's lounge. Coincidentally, he entered through the same door Jie Fangcheng and his group had used and immediately spotted the "Red-Clothed Demon", Lang Gu.

On a side note, he was the one who coined this nickname, which everyone found fitting, leading to its widespread adoption.

At that moment, Lang Gu stood near the control console like a guardian deity, deterring others from approaching the console.

Upon approaching and asking a question, Yang Chi also froze for a moment.

"Didn't they summon you?"

Lang Gu furrowed his eyebrows, his voice carrying a hint of grievance.

"No."

"Perhaps they were held up by something..."

Hurriedly, Yang Chi led him to the screen to find the live stream channel of "Divine Favor".

On the screen, over sixty members of Ronghua were gathered together.

The setting resembled a palace. Some sat on luxurious sofas while others lounged on plush carpets. The expansive room boasted exquisite furnishings, with walls adorned in white and gold hues. Moonlight streamed in through vibrant stained-glass windows, illuminating an array of delectable dishes and fine wines laid out on the table — a true picture of opulence and leisure.

Jie Fangcheng, who supposedly "might have been held up by something", was conversing with Nie Shuangshuang. Although the content of their conversation remained unknown... soon, Nie Shuangshuang pulled something out of her bag and handed it over to him.

After receiving and using it, Jie Fangcheng's hair turned green.

Zhang Dao'an's brows twitched violently.

Fortunately, in the next moment, his hair turned red.

With his new red and green ensemble, Jie Fangcheng was visibly joyful, even posing with a broadsword that Nie Shuangshuang handed him for a picture.

What a vivid depiction of a noble feast and leisure time!

Yang Chi initially felt quite miserable being stood up, lamenting the "Heartless Sword's" true heartlessness. However, he stealthily glanced at Lang Gu beside him.

The "Scarlet Cloaked Demon" had his pupils trembling, standing dumbfounded before the screen.

Yang Chi felt that being stood up didn't seem all that bad anymore!

Despite the absurd extravagance unfolding in the instance, Zhang Dao'an remained impassive.

"Are you suggesting that after a devout prayer, one can witness the desires buried deep within their heart?"

"Yes!" Wei Yuan exclaimed, his eyes sparkling, "We all know it's an illusion... but if it's just a dream, what harm is there?"

In this dream, he met the guild leader whom he hadn't seen in a long time.

Zhang Dawu was still as cheerful and warm as ever, shining like an everlasting sun in the hearts of every player, dispelling the gloom that enveloped them.

Wei Yuan and Qiao Mai started a family and built a happy home within the game.

Perhaps it shouldn't even be referred to as a game.

The dreamlike game was conquered by everyone — more precisely, it was cleared by Jie Fangcheng, transforming it into a haven.

Everyone lived happily, free from the threat of death in a place that might be somewhat backward but was undoubtedly heartwarming. The members of Ronghua returned, and they remained the best of friends.

This was everything Wei Yuan witnessed in his dream.

Yes, it was a dream.

This was clear to everyone, but such dreams hadn't been experienced for a very long time. Players in the game were always on edge, seldom finding moments of tranquillity. Yet, this dream acted like a gentle river, nourishing the hearts that had gradually dried up due to the game.

A brief respite could be more beneficial for survival within the game; it wasn't indulgence, just a rest.

This was the consensus among everyone.

"Don't worry, we all understand that dreams are not reality," Wei Yuan affirmed fervently, "If danger arises, we'll return to reality immediately. Everyone knows this is just an instance, but surely, we don't need to be vigilant all the time within it, do we?"

A smirk tugged at the corner of Zhang Dao'an's mouth.

"Quite impressive," his voice was light and eerie, "I'm quite curious what kind of dreamscape this magnificent temple will grant me when I pray tomorrow."