Chapter 47: The Floating Market "This might be the last time we see each other," Skylark said with a hint of sadness in her voice.
Lord Schrodinger’s expression remained unchanged, causing Skylark to feel offended. She couldn’t understand why he didn’t seem interested in the idea of staying friends.
"What? Why are you looking at me like that? Don’t you want to partner up in the future?" she asked, feeling a little hurt by his lack of enthusiasm.
"No," Lord Schrodinger replied simply, making Skylark even more frustrated with his response.
"Geez, you really are infuriating," she grumbled, feeling a mix of emotions.
Just then, a notification appeared on Xin’s face, diverting his attention.
Xin briefly gazed over at Skylark and found her looking at him with hopeful, twinkling eyes. He had a feeling she wouldn’t stop pestering him if he declined, so he reluctantly accepted her offer.
"Teeheeheee! I knew it! You’re a tsundere!" Skylark exclaimed, making a heart gesture with her index finger.
"Stop labeling me with weird names," Xin retorted, trying not to show any signs of amusement.
Eventually, Skylark and him returned to Seagull’s Nest, each carrying five barrels of oil. They decided to keep it a secret to avoid unnecessary questions from other players.
Glesga, the mayor, was disappointed that they didn’t acquire all the oils, but he still offered them 1000 gil for each barrel and some EXP for a job done.
"With this, we can access the Floating Market for a few days until we gather enough oils again before the next shipment arrives," Glesga explained.
Xin was no longer concerned about the market’s operation; he had fulfilled his mission, and it was now up to the game mechanics to continue the cycle of quests.
As for Skylark, she had to return to her real-life responsibilities. "I’ll visit the Floating Market tomorrow," she said while stretching her hands over her head. "I have assignments to do and school tomorrow morning, so I have to leave."
She then turned her gaze toward Lord Schrodinger. "What are you going to do?"
"I’m going to the Floating Market," Xin replied, not ready to leave the game just yet.
"Is that so? Don’t you have school tomorrow?" Skylark paused, and then her eyes widened. "Wait. You . . . are you like . . . an old man?"
Xin’s expression remained unchanged, and he just stared at Skylark, silently judging her assumption.
"I’m just joking," Skylark quickly added, feeling a bit awkward. Then she smiled. "Well, goodbye then. If you happen to come by Zone D, don’t forget to inform me, okay? I’ll treat you to coffee."
Before Xin could react, she vanished into particles, leaving him alone in the game once more. He wasn’t sure if he would ever meet Skylark again, but he couldn’t deny that their adventure together had been eventful, to say the least.
With a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, Xin decided to explore the Floating Market. He was determined not to let a single NPC off the hook.
𝗳𝚛𝗲𝕖𝚠𝚎𝚋𝗻𝗼𝕧𝗲𝐥.𝚌𝚘𝐦 After a brief stop in the town to Auction some of his items to free up his inventory, Xin headed straight to the Floating Market. He knew it should be operational by now, with its chains fixed and ready to welcome eager players.
When he entered the Floating Market, he was immediately greeted by a bustling and colorful sight. Various wooden stalls were set up on top of wooden bridges, connecting one market area to the next. The stalls floated gracefully on a clear ocean that seemed to fell endlessly down below, creating a mesmerizing and unique atmosphere.
Vendors and merchants proudly showcased their impressive wares, ranging from powerful weapons and armor to rare crafting materials and helpful potions. The market buzzed with the cheerful chatter of players haggling, making deals, and searching for the best bargains.
As Xin wandered through the vibrant market, he couldn’t help but be tempted by the exotic and magical items on display.
However, he restrained himself from making any impulsive purchases. His main goal was to challenge and conquer all the NPCs in this captivating place.
The entire area was alive with dynamic interactions as players formed parties, shared their latest achievements, and eagerly explored the vast array of offerings available.
For the players, the Floating Market was a central hub, providing a convenient place to stock up on essential supplies, make valuable connections, and plan their upcoming quests. The possibilities were endless, and the excitement of new adventures filled the air.
Xin had heard rumors of a remarkable healer and merchant, known as "the angel of Seagull’s Nest," who had set up her shrine and store in the heart of the Floating Market.
Curiosity piqued, he decided to pay her a visit. He had a feeling that it was Illyath, the one he was looking for.
In his search, he stepped inside the shrine, a warm and gentle light bathed the area, filtering through stained glass and illuminating the carefully arranged relics scattered on the floor.
A young woman with alabaster skin and hair greeted Xin with a soft, welcoming smile. Her presence seemed to emit an aura of peace, instantly putting him at ease.
"I welcome you, adventurer," she said in a soothing voice, her eyes filled with genuine kindness. "My name is Illyath, how can I help you?"
In the presence of the woman, Xin felt an unexpected sense of compassion and empathy, as if he could never bear to harm another creature again, let alone the woman standing before him.
"My name is Xin and I have come to collect my reward," Xin said, momentarily lost in her beauty and aura.
With a gentle nod, Illyath’s eyes held a hint of melancholy. "Tell me, how can I be of assistance?"
As Xin looked into her friendly eyes, he sensed that she was more than just a skilled healer and merchant. There was something mysterious and otherworldly about her.
That’s when a notification popped on his face.
[Illyath is a fallen angel who provides adventurers with magic items and offers healing to the weak and wounded.
She holds a deep interest in the Luckernaught treasure and bestows blessings upon visitors in exchange for donations and intriguing beachcombed finds.]