Chapter 106

Chapter 106

Ten minutes prior to Pan's descent.

Eugene wandered aimlessly through the streets, surrounded by a shroud of fog that veiled alleys and avenues. From within the mist, horrifying, contorted entities emerged in eerie silhouettes of varying sizes.

Eugene seemed either oblivious or deliberately walked towards the fog. He stepped into it, paused, and lifted his head slightly, murmuring, "Are you watching me?"

A colossal shadow slowly materialized before him, emerging from the mist.

It was a monstrous creature, resembling a giant slug with no head but only a mouth. Where a head should have been, rows of sharp fangs protruded in concentric circles.

The monster lowered its head, swallowing the defenseless Eugene whole.

...

Player Forums

Upon Lane's completion of his journey around Arkham, all players received notifications of their mission's accomplishment. Before they could check their rewards, the system promptly logged them out.

Now, with no outlet for their excitement, players flocked to the forums.

"Main Quest Accomplished!"

"The Divine Revelation's Impact!"

"The True Form of Pantheus Revealed!"

Matcha Milk Green: Ahhhhhhh! I'm so thrilled, can you guys feel my emotions?

Matcha Milk Green: I really, really sobbed. I was fortunate enough to witness Lang's descent up close. Honestly, at that moment, everyone was despairing – even the gods on earth had fallen. But Lang's descent was so breathtaking, damn it!

Strongest Man: +1, I was utterly stunned. I almost got skewered by a nearby creature.

Black Cat: It was indeed a close call. I thought the main quest was going to fail. Speaking of which, does this count as the game officials making it easier for us?

Druid: It feels like it. The Game Master (GM) showed leniency. We didn't even know where the boss was, and in the end, it was Lang's descent that turned the tide. Quick, let's all say thank you to Lang.

Salty Fish Stab: Thank you, Lang.

Gurgle: Thanks, Lane.

Not Wearing Fur Until Summer: Thanks, Lane.

Unpaid Balance Funeral Pyre: Thanks to my wife! (With a rose in mouth)

That Was My Line: Out of formation, troublemakers! And she's my wife!

Lane forcefully endorses: Don't you all have your own wives? Why are you stealing mine!

90: Speaking of which, everyone did so incredibly well in this main storyline. Even though we didn't follow the official script, I truly believe that Divine Being's actions were legendary, especially that final speech. In my opinion, they've ascended to godhood within the game!

Nightly: I couldn't agree more, especially when Lahn appeared to escort the big shot. Sigh - let me tell you, the scene was explosive. Arkham City was in an uproar. I bet the in-game world is buzzing with excitement right now.

barefoot_doctor's_Handbook: Sounds like so much fun! QwQ

Youyi_Youyin: Aaaahhhh, I'm dying to know what happened! Why can't I get into the game? Why! Is there anyone kind enough to share a video to satisfy my curiosity? QwQ

Divine_Being: Videos are being uploaded as we speak.

Lan En was thrilled: "!!! A big shot has appeared!"

Final Balance on Fire: "Master Ball!"

Strongest Man: "Ahhhh, big shot, you're finally here! What exactly happened back then? Weren't you dead? Why did you suddenly appear in spirit form? I have so many questions!"

God Among Men: "Don't worry, I'll explain step by step. Those who are curious about what happened at the end can watch the video."

Without his urging, the cloud gamers were already eagerly clicking into the video.

The video began from God Among Men's perspective, showing him witnessing Lan En's gradual appearance. Then, it followed Lan En as he soared above Arkham.

Although Black Cat and the others had seen it once in the game, it didn't stop them from watching God Among Men's perspective again.

From God Among Men's viewpoint, the scene was equally magnificent. They saw Lan En's back, and the music heard was clearer and more melodious.

As Lan En moved, humans in different parts of the city were rescued. They watched as countless creatures were drawn to the deity, gradually joining the massive procession behind him. Golden light and silver threads continuously emerged from the creatures, hovering around Lan En, surreal yet beautiful.

Nine-Turn Intestine: "Ahhhhhh, my wife is so beautiful prprpr!"

May Has Money: This scene is so beautiful! The officials really know how to create magic!

No More One: Another viral video! The officials have the secret to generating buzz!

Craving Taro and Salted Egg Yolk Wheel Cakes: Love it, love it! Please give us more moments like these with my wife.

Dice Maiden, Please Have Milk Tea: I'm so envious of the mighty God Amongst Men right now qwq, being able to witness this up close.

Just as the players predicted, the video went viral after its release on God Amongst Men's channel. Now, the players were absorbed in the video's mesmerizing atmosphere.

Wherever Len went, he carried away despair, extracting the spirits from the anomalies – a mere tactic for him, as he couldn't indefinitely control them. But to others, especially those who saw their deceased loved ones transformed into monsters, it was a source of comfort.

After the anomalies turned into golden light or silver threads and returned to the deity, they offered gratitude, blessings, and faith to this divine being who had descended upon them.

Many survivors emerged from shelters, some attempting to follow the deity's path, while others knelt in devout prayer.

The players witnessing this spectacle felt a mix of emotions, particularly those who had experienced this storyline firsthand.

Black Cat: Sigh, it's heartbreaking. I was stunned when Ye Ye released that anomaly was human in the player channel back then.

Druid: Likewise, it's heartbreaking, this sudden onslaught of monstrous mud. Orz

Ultimate Male: It was terrible at the square too. The NPCs wouldn't let us attack when they realized these anomalies might be their deceased loved ones. Is it the same in other areas?

Innocent Bystander Zhang San: Yeah, something like that. At least, that's how it is here. It's quite a coincidence that all the NPCs encounter their lost family members, isn't it? (Skeptical)

Pork Stew with Glass Noodles: Maybe... the anomalies returned home to seek their loved ones...

I'm Really Not Acting: ...Now that you mention it, it sounds even sadder.

To Kill a Mockingbird: Such a melancholic plot, qwq. The wife's final redemption was touching. The anomalies disappearing as glowing dots must be seen as salvation by the NPCs.

Dark Chocolate Crispy Layer Cake: Sigh, the wife is so kind.

Street Stall Grilled Skewers: Though the reality might not be what we think, at least those still living find solace.

The players mused, then saw Lane leading the horde of anomalies across a figure on a rooftop.

Forty Years Old: Eh, who's that? A new NPC?

Orange Jing: Just happened to be on the way? That's too unfortunate!

Jun Qianchong: What kind of unlucky soul was that, right in front of Lan En, getting torn apart by the anomaly?

Black Cat: ...No, I don't think he was just unlucky.

Ah Long: Isn't this the NPC we saw in Archi's apartment? He had a name...

Matcha Milk Green: Amos!

Druid: Damn, what's going on here? I don't think Lan En would suddenly do something like this. He clearly adjusted his path, so did he intentionally set this person up to die?

Black Cat: It's probably not intentional killing. It feels more like he was passing by, saw some trash, and just took it out.

Crazy Not Mad: Damn.

Strongest Man: Damn.

White Sand in Muddy Water: Damn, that's hilarious. The atmosphere suddenly turned comedic.

Iron Blooded Fun Seeker: I sense a familiar aura of a fun-seeker. Look at how Lane went through such a detour just to eliminate this person. Could he be the mastermind behind this conspiracy?

Druid: Seriously? It's this guy?

Upon learning that Amos might be the puppet master, the chat exploded with a flurry of 'greetings' directed at Amos.

Every player who had experienced the Mud Plot despised the culprit of this sinister scheme.

Iron Blooded Fun Seeker: It's only a speculation on my part...

Black Cat: I think it's highly possible. Also, don't you find this NPC eerie? He was even smiling in a blissful trance before being torn apart by the bizarre creature.

Favorite Son, He Someone: Could this guy be a toxic stan of Lane's?

All or Nothing Is Destiny: Toxic stanning is unacceptable! No playing with people's emotions!

No One Can Resist a Handsome Youth: While I can understand the obsession with Lane, pervs and creepy fun-seekers, back off!

Black Cat: I have a feeling there's more to this story. Hopefully, after the update, the developers will provide more background information. This main storyline has been quite confusing.

The video concluded swiftly, and the players were frantically tagging the prominent figure, God on Earth.

God on Earth: Well, I've more or less gathered my thoughts. Where do I begin? Honestly, when Len appeared, my mind went blank. As He extended a hand to me, an idea struck me — He was a deity come to guide believers into His kingdom. I instinctively grasped His hand.

Black Kite Won't Coo: Sobs... So envious! I wish I could hold my wife's hand too.

God on Earth: Then, I was pulled out of my state of limbo. At that moment, I suppose others could see my soul as well.

Black Cat: We did. You were in a translucent state.

God on Earth: Exactly. If there's such a thing as a soul form, that must be it. Honestly, I didn't expect that. For a split second, I thought the dimensional barrier had broken, and I was really being summoned to the game's divine realm.

Druid: And you still held onto His hand?

God on Earth: If you were in my shoes, you wouldn't have been able to refuse either.

God on Earth: A god was inviting me.

Norman King was a priest by origin. He spent the first half of his life spreading the glory of his Lord and the latter part advocating for civil rights and equality. He vowed before his deity to let the winds of freedom and equality blow across the world once again. He upheld that promise with his life, and in his final moments, his Lord came to personally escort him.

A Critical Failure, But There's Still Hope: ...Master... Your words sound like the ramblings of a fanatic (shivering).

Evil Smile Lin Pinru: Master, have you been possessed by a black cat?

Wandering Little Yellow Dragon: You weren't like this before, Master. This game is really addictive, damn it.

Lann's Dog: Hehe, welcome to the Church of Lann's Wives. Once you join the secret church in-game, you'll soon be fully devoted to Lann!

Quickly Give Me Medicine: Is this the terrifying power of faith, that even the big shots aren't spared?

Kicking the Cripple's Good Leg: Yet, I can subtly understand. Master's role-playing skills are top-notch. For those immersed in character playing, the appearance of a deity is the highest compliment.

African: I'm converted. Where do I claim my wife, Lann?

Pure Love War God XD: It's too late! (Hides Lann)

Creeping in Darkness: Perhaps this is an Easter egg designed by the officials? Letting players experience the storyline firsthand, it feels amazing. I envy you so much, Master, sob sob.

Youyouyi: When I get into the game, I want to be a troublemaker too, hehe!

Save Lives with Wisdom: "Stop it, guys! Hahaha, leave the officials alone, can't you see they're working hard to release more content?"

Matcha Milk Green: "So, what was the outcome? How's your card, big shot?"

God Among Us: "Character Card Data.jpg"

God Among Us shared the stats of their "Norman King" card, and all players or virtual enthusiasts swiftly clicked in.

As expected, the card was grayed out, indicating it was no longer usable. However, the credibility section was filled to the brim with a full 100 points!

Credibility: 100 (Your deeds are known to all, making you a pioneer in anti-discrimination movements. The divine intervention at the final moment adds a touch of mythology to your story. You will be etched into human history.)

Druid: "It worked!"

The Strongest Man: "Woah, so powerful!"

Not Crazy: "Full credibility, unprecedented!"

Black Cat: "Perhaps there will never be another one like it, no, it's almost certain. It'll be tough for players to replicate a card of this caliber."

God Among Us: Indeed, luck and timing were crucial factors. Even I doubt I could recreate this feat again. I genuinely appreciate everyone's cooperation during that period! This card was crafted together by all of us!

Nayaya: So awesome, shouldn't the official team say something?

Baba: @Official Team

Uncle Hao: @Official Team

God Among Us: Haha, no need, really. I'm deeply grateful for your high regard. To be honest, I'm very content with reaching this level. I haven't let down your attention and enthusiasm.

With such humble words from the prominent player, the others didn't push further. They had plenty more to discuss, like the main storyline, the clashes, and the NPCs they encountered in their respective regions.

Players were soon astonished to discover how meticulously detailed the game was, especially the NPCs' intelligence. Almost every NPC had their own story, family, and logic, with hardly any repetition or stereotypes. They resembled the diverse individuals one encounters in real life.

This exaggerated attention to detail sparked widespread discussion among players. However, before they could reach a conclusion, the official team made a new move.

"Official Announcement: Thank you, dear players, for your support. The 2.0 Beta version has concluded successfully. Through testing, we have corrected numerous functional bugs and further refined this free world. The 3.0 Beta version will be arriving soon, bringing more features, engaging gameplay, and deeper narratives. Stay tuned and look forward to it!"

Lan Yue: !!! Super Master Ball!

Berserker of the East: An ultra-rare official appearance! I thought you folks were all AI behind the scenes. Haven't seen a living soul in ages.

86-Year-Old Virgin Widow: Who cares about new features? Just add more spots, geez! It doesn't matter to me if I can't get in, QQ.

Chestnut is a Cat: Yeah, let the kids in, please... sob, sob, sob.

Reasonable Victory: Give us some more spots, 5,500 isn't even enough for a nibble. Or just go straight to open beta, don't you know how popular this game is outside?

Reasonable Victory: "Civil Rights Speech MP4," "Defending Michigan MP4," "Divine Arrival in Arkham MP4."

Reasonable Victory: These dungeons have all gone viral! You could use the clips as PVs already. Wake up, guys, there are hundreds of thousands of pre-registrations. Without more spots, who's going to get in?

Wuhu Takeoff: So fiery upstairs, I love it.

No Coriander Please: More spots, more spots, officials! I've been waiting since the first closed beta, and now it's version 3.0, but still no luck!

However, no matter how eagerly the non-lucky ones clamored, they couldn't budge the aloof officials.

" Ding, new feature - The Church of Celestial Wisdom goes live."

"Function Description: In the Hour of Humanity's Radiant Stars, any Investigator who perishes during an investigation may be interred in a specific church cemetery within the game. Players visiting the gravesite can review the high points of that character's journey, allowing future generations to pay their respects. However, please note that a deceased character's name will only be permanently inscribed on the tombstone after retention for over three months and subsequent approval."

"Ding! New Feature - Hall of Fame activated!"

"Function Description: Character Cards with any attribute or skill points fully developed will be permanently recorded in the game's Hall of Fame."

Druid: ! New feature!

Matcha Milk Green: Wow, the officials are quick! They've implemented these suggestions right away.

Black Cat: I suppose they had it prepared beforehand, just lucky timing.

The Strongest Man: So, does this mean the big shots can now enter the Hall of Fame?

God Among Men: Yes, I've checked. The Hall of Fame is right next to the forum, and Norman King's name is already there.

Numerous players couldn't resist checking out the Hall of Fame, which currently displayed only one Character Card.

"Norman King:

A leader in anti-discrimination campaigns, an orator, and a cleric.

Born in 1009 AD, he passed away in 1039, at the age of 30."

Riding Alpaca: Waa, I wish I could stand alongside these greats too.

Cat Leap: This game's attention to detail is impressive. In tabletop games, it's always disappointing when players make awesome moves but receive no recognition. But not anymore.

Barbara: Already looking forward to visiting the Church of Celestial Wisdom in-game! When showing new players around, I can brag: This is where my past self's tombstone lies, such a tragic demise!

Uncle Hao: Haha, that's hilarious.

Nights: You want everyone to admire your idiotic death, huh? Hahahaha.

Druid: I think it's a good idea. Visiting the Church of Celestial Wisdom for mourning could become a must-do for introducing newcomers to the game.

Strongest Man: But why keep cards for at least three months? Wouldn't that just waste a character card slot?

Black Cat: It's to restrain you all. Otherwise, if you could die and be buried in the Church anytime, it would be a waste of tombstone space.

Matcha Milk Green: I'm all for it! The Stars of Wisdom Cathedral is where luminous souls rest; let's keep it that way, hahaha.

Black Cat: You're right, it's about showing off to newbies, isn't it? Look, my character card has the qualification to be buried in the Stars of Wisdom Cathedral.

Matcha Milk Green: Exactly the vibe I was talking about.

Gentle Foam: So this might be the first game where players will study how to die spectacularly...

Yan Qingheng: Death is inevitable anyway, it's part of the Lovecraftian theme. I think it's great.

Both features sparked intense discussions among the players. And the next one created even more waves!

"Notification - New Feature: Occupation and Job Change System Activated"

"Feature Description: After sacrificing several programmers, we've finally launched the new occupation system. Players can advance from the three initial professions by consulting with higher-level mentors or enrolling in specialized schools. Each player can have one main occupation and one secondary. Once you acquire your main occupation, you'll gain skill points more easily related to your field. So, plan your career paths wisely, players!"

"Unemployed Youth: You can switch to any profession based on your skillset, provided you land a job first."

"Ruffian: Suggest shifting towards a profession with prominent combat skills."

"Homeless: Perhaps, scavenging could be an option?"

"Note: Unique side jobs can be consulted from unique individuals."

Druid: Well then, scavenging it is.

Black Cat: Profession! Job change! Finally, this moment has come!

Matcha Milk Green: I'm almost forgetting what my profession even is...

The Strongest Man: What the heck is scavenging?! That's going too far, hahaha.

DRT Super Fish Slayer: It's about time this game introduced a job system. But what could a gangster transform into? A black-market enforcer?

Marry Me, Beautiful Lane: Here's an idea, let's overthrow Carrens and take over as the gang leader.

Damn This Lucky: Hahaha, the person above is being ridiculous. What has Carrens done to offend you? He's working hard as a boss, hahaha.

Seeking Even Numbers: Hold on, regarding this unemployed youth's note... Are we seriously going to look for jobs in the game?

I'll Fly to Your Bed: I can barely find a job in reality, and now I have to search for one in a game?

Yay Yay Yay Yay Yay: Hey, guys up there, no need to share scary stories here, QQ.

Explodes with Proximity: Although I know this game is realistic, it's almost too much! There's no need to take it this far!

Rainbow Double-Skin Milk: Calm down, everyone. Didn't you see that you can attend a specialized 'school' and seek help from special personnel? The first school that comes to my mind is...

No Overtime For Me: Damn! It's MIT! Is MIT opening its doors?

Minstrel: Aaaahhh! My alma mater! Can I go back to school, QQ?

Heartless on the Rock: MIT picture! MIT picture! I've been waiting for so long!

Ruin Everything, No More Work: Seriously? The MIT image is finally coming out?

Beauty Equals Justice: Fantastic! I've waited so long. Let me into MIT right away!

The excitement in the players' forum ignited instantly. For a long time, they had eagerly anticipated the opportunity to study at MIT ever since they saw it in Lane's Divine Realm. Now, their dream of returning to their alma mater was about to come true!