Felix: "…Tell me, why are you heading to the Enforcement Office again?"
Yu Yu thought for a moment, recounting the big shot's words. "I used night raven to contact a purification mage without permission, and that mage was the Acting Grand Executor of the Purification Department. So, I have to go to the Enforcement Office to face punishment."
Felix let out a breath of relief, but after a moment, she said abruptly, "You learned night raven and used it like that?"
Yu Yu looked aggrieved. "I thought night raven would find a spellcaster in charge of killing mutants. How was I supposed to know it'd go straight to the Grand Executor?!"
She put on a pained expression. "Night raven is too unpredictable!"
She'd assumed the magic circle had dedicated teams for mutant cleanup, like police squads. Who knew, who knew—one night raven and it summoned a living ancestor…
Was her understanding of the magic circle lacking?
Surely the magic circle had teams, right?
It couldn't be that every high-tier spellcaster operated solo, could it?
With that thought, Yu Yu asked, "Senior, the magic circle doesn't lack dedicated cleanup teams, does it? Are all high-tier spellcasters just one-person armies?"
Felix pondered for a moment. "…That depends on the seniors' personalities."
Yu Yu: "???"
Felix's gaze drifted lightly. "Some seniors are so skilled they prefer handling tasks themselves."
High-tier spellcasters each had their own tricks. As long as they didn't die, the magic circle generally didn't interfere.
Yu Yu: "…"
It was actually true?
…No wonder it's the magic circle.
Felix quickly snapped back. "Didn't I tell you not to use night raven carelessly? Why didn't you just ask me for help?"
Yu Yu hadn't expected her to say that and was surprised.
Senior was a junior = Senior can't fight.
Senior specialized in curse and necromancy = Senior can't fight.
Wolfy was a spellcaster, delicate and frail = Senior can't fight.
So, Felix = can't fight!
The equation checked out!
Yu Yu said tactfully, "It didn't cross my mind at the time."
"I thought the magic circle had a proper organization."
Felix considered this. "Looks like that senior isn't angry. Just go take your punishment."
She sat back on her bed, giving a cold glance. "Get out. If there's anything else, we'll talk tomorrow."
Yu Yu peeked at her, flashing a radiant smile. "I disturbed Senior's sleep again! How about you come to my place for dinner tomorrow?"
Felix hummed. "Got it. Out."
Yu Yu happily scampered off.
The next day, Yu Yu arrived at the Enforcement Office bright and early. She was worried the big shot might have a bad temper. If she made her wait, then…
Sigh, she hoped it wouldn't hurt too much. She still had to limp home and study afterward. Going out with Lynn had cost her a day and a half. Meng's classes were merciless, so she had to find a way to make up the time.
Though she arrived quickly, Yu Yu still had a slight trauma about the Enforcement Office. After lingering at the entrance, she steeled herself and stepped inside. The moment she entered, she was hit with a critical strike.
Good grief, it was her?
The Vengeful Spellcaster!
Compared to last time, her aura was even more sinister, her steps carrying a storm of blood and vengeance. Clearly, her revenge hadn't brought her joy. Yu Yu instantly plastered herself against the wall, clearing the way.
After you, please.
But unexpectedly, she stopped, her eyes under the hood fixing on Yu Yu.
Yu Yu: "!!!"
Don't come near me! Stay away from this Yu!!!
With a cold laugh, the high-tier spellcaster said slowly, "Pathetic little thing."
Yu Yu: "…" You're the pathetic one! No, you're the little thing!
She arrogantly scrutinized Yu Yu for a moment before saying, "I've applied to transfer to the Enforcement Office. You'd better not fall into my hands, outsider."
"My codename is Zhi. Remember it."
Yu Yu nodded like a pecking chick. Aren't you leaving? Go, go!
The woman stared at Yu Yu a bit longer before sauntering off.
One step, two steps, three steps…
She stopped again.
Yu Yu: "?"
Why aren't you leaving?
Don't come back!
Yu Yu was practically gasping for air but could only watch as she walked back.
"Little thing, you actually came to the Enforcement Office on your own," Zhi said with an extremely "kind" smile. "What law did you break?"
Yu Yu clamped her mouth shut, her eyes instinctively darting elsewhere. Zhi's voice grew colder. "Don't try to deceive me~"
Yu Yu: "…"
She could only press herself tighter against the wall. "Just a little, just a tiny bit…"
Seeing her defensive stance, Zhi laughed again, hands behind her back. "Hmm, what was it?"
Yu Yu, seeing no escape, closed her eyes. "I used night raven to contact a purification mage without permission."
She didn't mention the second part, fearing escalation.
"Oh~~~" Zhi drew out the sound. "Come with me, then."
Yu Yu's face crumpled.
She was wrong.
She shouldn't have come so early.
If she'd come later, she wouldn't have run into Zhi, and if she hadn't run into Zhi…
Help…
Senior, save me, wuwuwu.
Yu Yu dragged her feet, following Zhi like she was heading to her doom. Along the way, she noticed that almost everyone passing by was a high-tier spellcaster, with barely any mid-tier ones.
This Enforcement Office was hardcore…
How many high-tier spellcasters did the magic circle have?
No wonder the magic circle could act so domineering. Lynn could only grumble verbally—probably because high-tier spellcasters found her cute and let it slide. Yu Yu shuffled slowly behind Zhi, looking utterly pitiful. Even the passing high-tier spellcasters couldn't help but glance at her.
The Enforcement Office's high-tier spellcasters were cold-hearted. They looked, but only for a moment, with no intention of intervening. Yu Yu was assessing the situation, unsure of what Zhi planned. If it was too severe, she'd need to contact the Grand Archon or Senior immediately, but…
"You're here early."
A lazy voice sounded ahead.
Yu Yu's eyes lit up instantly. Big shot, save me!
It was none other than her victim, the Acting Grand Executor.
Zhi was surprised. "My lady?"
The Grand Executor waved casually. "She offended me, so I'm here to watch her punishment."
Zhi: "…Understood." You're really free.
Yu Yu felt like she'd been granted amnesty, her grateful little eyes making the Grand Executor blink in confusion. Why are you so happy about being punished?
And why that "savior" look?
The Grand Executor felt a bit embarrassed under her gaze. Zhi caught Yu Yu's expression, her lips twitching as she turned to leave. Though Yu Yu couldn't see Zhi's face, she could feel her aura. She was definitely mad she didn't get to punish her!
Good, good, thank goodness the magic circle had plenty of chaos-lovers!
The Grand Executor was here to watch the show in person!
This was perfect!
Yu Yu hoped the magic circle could have even more chaos-lovers!!!
The Grand Executor, baffled by her stare, finally said, "You have a grudge with her?"
Yu Yu shook her head frantically. Seeing the big shot's expression, she quickly explained, "Before, uh, with the outsider…"
The Grand Executor understood, her eyes cooling. "Related to you?"
Yu Yu: "No way?!"
The Grand Executor watched her for a moment. "You think she wants to settle a personal score?"
Yu Yu shut her mouth.
I didn't say that, don't put words in my mouth.
The Grand Executor gave a half-smile. "Let's go."
Yu Yu: "…"
With Zhi gone, Yu Yu relaxed. The pressure with Zhi around versus without was night and day. She knew the Grand Executor was probably stronger, but…
The Grand Executor had no beef with players!
As she thought this, another high-tier spellcaster approached. When the Grand Executor led the way, others avoided her, but this one came straight on. Could it be…
"You're here?" Even as the Enforcement Office's Grand Executor, her eyelid twitched.
This person wasn't under the same Archon as them. That lord's subordinates were notoriously unhinged. Crazier than the Enforcement Office's craziest.
The Grand Executor: "Why can't I be here? I'm checking on the little thing who offended me. Is that not allowed?"
Only then did the Enforcement Office's Grand Executor notice the person behind her.
She was astonished. "Yu?"
Yu Yu: "???"
You know me too?!
The Grand Executor pulled her forward. "Perfect timing. Show me your Enforcement Office's specialty."
Yu Yu: "…" This isn't something to show off!
Grand Archon, save me!!!
Under her despairing gaze, the Enforcement Office's Grand Executor asked, "What law did she break this time?"
Yu Yu teared up.
Don't say "this time"! I wasn't here before for breaking the law!
The time before that, Senior Chang cleared me!
Wuwuwu, I hate the Enforcement Office.
The Grand Executor thought for a moment. "She used night raven to ask me for help."
The Enforcement Office's Grand Executor: "…"
She even turned to size up Yu Yu. "Bold. Courageous."
Not everyone dared ask that pack of lunatics for help, especially the Grand Executor, the craziest of them all. You'd have better luck asking the Enforcement Office. Yu Yu put on her pained mask.
I said it was night raven acting on its own, would you believe me?
The Grand Executor: "Hurry up."
Moments later, Yu Yu huddled in a corner like a quail, trembling.
When I'm a high-tier spellcaster, I'll zap you too!
The Enforcement Office's Grand Executor was disinterested, unable to fathom the Grand Executor's amusement. She was so old, yet still picking on a tiny spellcaster. She wasn't even mid-tier. After a moment's thought, she pointed a finger, and Yu Yu crouched, hugging her head in defense.
She quickly turned her pain sensitivity to zero. To the two onlookers, it looked like Yu Yu was convulsing from the shock, in agonizing pain but too scared to make a sound. The Enforcement Office's Grand Executor reduced the spell's intensity, then reduced it again, but seeing Yu Yu still trembling, she sighed softly.
She assumed the little spellcaster's Constitution was just that poor. The Grand Executor found it quite entertaining. Moments later, a familiar voice rang out. "The Grand Archon summons Yu."
Yu Yu nearly looked up at Senior's voice. No, she felt nothing—not even a blip in her health bar. Looking up would expose her. She kept hugging her head, wondering why the Grand Archon would suddenly summon her. Was Senior faking it?
She hadn't asked for help.
Wuwu, it must be Senior seeing me suffer and coming to the rescue.
Senior is the best! I'll find more tasty food for her!
"Feng Ye?" The Grand Executor's voice was languid. "Tell her to wait."
Felix switched names. "The Duchess summons Yu."
This time, the Grand Executor finally looked over. Seeing Felix's face, her expression turned odd for a moment.
"…Fine, for the Duchess's sake."
Felix stepped in, scooping up Yu Yu. "Thank you, Senior."
The Grand Executor: "…Hmph."
Did she look like some unethical senior?
Couldn't she tell Qiong was going easy?
She just thought the little spellcaster's expressions were too vivid and wanted to see more.
Was she wrong?
Absolutely not.
Seeing Felix leave, the Grand Executor rolled her eyes. "Tch, protective little wolf pup."
The Enforcement Office's Grand Executor, codename Qiong.
"Bullying should target high-tiers. What's the point of picking on a kid?"
"She'd die with a flick, where's the fun?"
The Grand Executor glanced at her. "I saw she didn't even shed a tear, clean as a whistle. Are you slipping?"
Qiong: "???"
At the castle, Felix finally stopped, glancing at Yu Yu. "Did it hurt?"
Yu Yu looked up innocently. "Are they still here?"
Felix: "…With Teacher here, no spellcaster would eavesdrop."
This was the Grand Archon's doorstep. Unless they were enemies, no one would dare provoke her here. Yu Yu sighed in relief, whispering in Senior's ear, "I turned off my pain sensitivity. I felt nothing."
She glanced around, afraid the Grand Executor or that scary one would pop out.
Felix: "…"
Yu Yu's innocent face.
"But thank you, Senior. I knew you were the best!"
Felix: "…"
After a moment, she said coldly, "Turn your pain sensitivity back on."
"No way, I'm keeping it off until tonight."
"Now."
Yu Yu looked at her for a moment, then reluctantly turned it back on. Moments later, Felix carried a limp Yu Yu into the castle. Yu Yu's tears flowed uncontrollably from the corners of her eyes. "Senior, can I zap them back when I'm stronger?"
Felix scoffed. "Sure, go for it."
Yu Yu saw someone she didn't want to see.
Coincidentally, they saw her too.
Teary-eyed Yu Yu: "…?"
Why are Shang Wei and the others here?
Why are you all here?
Oh no, social death scene.
Why didn't Senior warn me!!!
Zi Shu looked at Yu Yu curiously, shooting her a glance.
Haven't seen you in a bit, how'd you cry like this?
Fuyu's eyes widened, poking Shu Tu beside her. "Yu crying is kinda… captivating."
Shu Tu glanced at her subtly. "…She can hear you."
Yu Yu: "…" Captivating, huh?
I'll make you cry tonight.
Fuyu's innocent face.
Xiang Qin glanced at Yu Yu discreetly, then kindly looked away.
But Zhong Ye and Shang Wei kept staring.
Yu Yu's face darkened.
Fine, she was already crying.
Unlike the players waiting outside, Felix didn't spare them a glance, dragging Yu Yu straight inside.
The Grand Archon looked up from her busy schedule. "?"
Seeing Yu Yu's teary face and her silly wolf pup, she couldn't help but frown. "What's this about?"
The Duchess was equally puzzled, glancing between Yu Yu, her sister, and the Grand Archon.
Felix: "You know Senior Dai?"
The Grand Archon thought. "Her? You met her?"
Felix set down the limp Yu Yu.
Too embarrassing—Yu Yu teared up again. "Grand Archon…"
Tears before words.jpg
The Grand Archon: "…"
The Duchess: "…"
Yu Yu didn't want to dwell on this. But… circumstances didn't allow it.
Sobbing, Yu Yu poured out her grievances, painting herself as a little bunny zapped by two bullies, a tale so heartbreaking it could move listeners to tears. The Grand Archon, looking at her rosy lips and pearly teeth, didn't believe a word.
If they really zapped you, could you be here whining?
She assumed a colleague had broken Yu Yu's defenses. Sigh, now she, the Grand Archon, had to clean up the mess. Exhausting.
The Grand Archon comforted, "So, what did you do wrong to get dragged to the Enforcement Office again?"
Felix said casually, "She asked for help and reached Senior Dai."
The Grand Archon got it instantly, giving Yu Yu a pitying look. "You'd have been better off asking me. Dai… tsk."
Yu Yu perked up. "Can I ask the Grand Archon for help?"
The Grand Archon said lazily, "You can, but I might not bother."
Yu Yu: "…" Then why say anything! Dai was better—she actually showed up!
Who'd believe it, but Yu Yu hadn't meant to escalate this. She did use night raven for help, and she was saved. If she hadn't run into Zhi, she'd be home by now, nursing her aching back and studying… But fate had other plans.
Yu Yu put on her pained mask again.
Feng Ye comforted her. "Dai's got a rotten temper. Her just zapping you means she already likes you. Don't overthink it."
"And Qiong went easy on you, didn't she?"
She glanced at Felix. "Useless pup, running over for this little issue. Would she not let her go?"
Felix raised an eyelid. "Senior Dai said—'Feng Ye? Tell her to wait.'"
The Grand Archon's breath hitched.
Yu Yu raised her hand. "I can confirm."
The Grand Archon: "…"
The Duchess, delighted, fake-comforted her teacher. "Don't be sad, Teacher. Maybe she's only like that with you."
The Grand Archon: "?"
Little pup, are you sure you're comforting me?
For some reason, watching Senior and the Duchess roast the Grand Archon lifted Yu Yu's mood.
This is the drama players should see!
Heh.
Outside, a bunch of players stood expressionless, watching the cozy scene inside.
Fuck
Why could Yu Yu cry to the Grand Archon?
And the Grand Archon comforted her?!
Why were they stuck standing outside?!
And the guards' glares were vicious!
Was this fair?!
Was this reasonable?!
Even the joy of seeing Yu Yu cry couldn't heal them!
If they cried, could they cozy up to the Grand Archon too?!
Yu Yu's back was pierced by a barrage of envious, jealous, hateful stares. By now, she'd pulled out a tissue to wipe her face, then a mirror to check. Eyes still red?
Yu Yu tugged her eyelids, applying some baby cream.
There, perfect.
When she snapped back, all three were staring at her.
Yu Yu quickly stashed her things, putting on a serious face. "May I ask why the Grand Archon summoned me?"
She brushed dust off her clothes and stood, swaying a bit—her legs were still numb!
She steadied herself, maintaining her serious expression.
The Grand Archon just wanted to roll her eyes. "Are you still doing the team competition or not?"
Yu Yu realized. So Senior wasn't lying—the Grand Archon did summon her!
But the magic circle was odd. Why didn't Dai give the Grand Archon face but respected the Duchess?
Why did the Duchess's status just seemed to spike up and down?
What was her status in the magic circle?
Yu Yu's gaze drifted to the Duchess. The Duchess was stunning, her deep blue eyes like a dreamy ocean, her silver-white hair soft and glossy, tempting to touch…
The Duchess: "? What are you looking at?"
Felix glanced over.
Yu Yu: "The Duchess and Senior look so alike."
Why were their hair and eye colors different?
The Duchess: "Obviously, she's my sister."
Outside players: "?!?!?!?"
What?!?!
The thigh Yu hugged is the Duchess's sister?!
No wonder!
No wonder, out of all of us, only Yu got ennobled!
Give us an email, we're reporting this!!!
Xiang Qin's expression was subtle.
Even she had to admit Yu Yu's advantage was massive.
How did she keep catching NPCs' eyes?
NPCs generally looked down on or distrusted players, so how did she repeatedly get their attention—and do well?
Xiang Qin didn't get it.
Clearly, she wasn't the only one.
Felix's face was expressionless, her glance at Yu Yu saying: Ask again, and I'll end you.
Yu Yu easily read Senior's meaning, immediately turning serious. "Understood, I'll line up now."
The Grand Archon: "…"
Yu Yu dashed to Zi Shu's side. Someone started to mock but was silenced by a guard's icy glare.
Yu Yu pulled Zi Shu in front to shield her. "Stop looking, block for me."
Zi Shu kept staring. "How did you…"
Yu Yu coughed. "Long story. Don't ask—just know the big shots love me."
The Grand Archon, sipping water and organizing her thoughts, nearly choked.
How do you say that out loud?
If Dai heard…
Hmm… interesting… maybe tell her?
With these possibilities flashing through her mind, the Grand Archon coughed.
Yu Yu instantly stood straight, super serious.
Zi Shu, pulled to the front as a shield, was speechless.
She felt no player was as at ease here as Yu Yu.
These NPCs, whom they'd only met once, Yu Yu had seen who-knows-how-many times.
Damn, the more she thought, the more jealous she got.
They entered the game together—why was the gap so huge?
Did Yu Yu have some secret affinity-boosting trick?
When serious, the Grand Archon had immense authority. She scanned the group. "You're the best among outsiders. You should know why I summoned you and what I'm planning without me spelling it out, right?"
"Meng."
"Here."
"Han."
"Here."
Only then did Yu Yu notice Senior Meng was there too.
Which meant Senior Meng saw her teary-eyed.
Yu Yu's face twisted into a pained mask.
Zi Shu glanced over. "?"
Yu Yu slumped on her shoulder, despairing.
The other high-tier spellcaster seemed familiar too…
The "assassin" who'd nabbed her.
Yu Yu belatedly realized she knew quite a few high-tier spellcasters.
Though the ways they met weren't exactly pleasant…
Thinking of Zhi, Yu Yu's face turned bitter.
Maybe she'd cozy up to the Enforcement Office later, see if she could find an insider.
If she had to go again, she'd check if Zhi was there first to avoid personal vendettas.
Lost in thought, the Grand Archon issued orders. "Your competition is arranged. Follow the high-tier spellcasters."
Her tone was stern and cold. "No unauthorized actions. If there's an issue, the high-tier spellcasters will kill you on the spot."
"Remember, never challenge the magic circle," she said, scanning them. "Outsiders."
She bit out the last three words heavily.
Then her gaze swept the room, locking onto Yu Yu, slumped on Zi Shu's shoulder.
Yu Yu: "?"
Why look at me? When did I challenge the magic circle?
It's the magic circle bullying me!
The Grand Archon looked away.
Other players: "?"
Yu Yu, slouching on Zi Shu's shoulder—wasn't that defying the magic circle and disrespecting the Grand Archon?
Though they didn't dare speak, their glares were piercing.
Meng stepped forward, drawing the players' attention. "The Grand Archon values you highly. I hope you'll serve diligently and not disappoint her expectations."
The Grand Archon considered. "Felix, you go too."
"You're high-tier now—you can't keep squatting in Silver Moon."
Wolfy got moody and shed like crazy when cooped up, like Fufu.
She shed secretly when angry, sad—every day, cleaning her fur gave the Grand Archon a headache.
Thankfully, Felix wasn't home, and the little pup had been tricked into going out, or…
Unthinkable.
Felix visibly perked up.
Yu Yu instantly caught Senior's mood, waving brightly.
A bold player spoke up. "Grand Archon, they're all close to Yu. What if they can't enforce fairly? Can't we switch?"
Meng glanced over.
The player froze.
Ice rose from their feet, and in three seconds, they shattered into icy fragments.
All players felt a chill.
Unlike the clueless players outside, they understood Eternal Darkness's uniqueness.
NPCs… might not be NPCs…
If players weren't immortal, would that player have died on the spot?
Why was the magic circle so brutal?
Meng scanned them calmly. "The magic circle doesn't accept questions."
"Doesn't accept rebuttals."
"Any other opinions?"
Everyone: "…"
Yu Yu thought Senior Meng was incredibly commanding in that moment.
Cool.
Felix glanced over, catching Yu Yu's sparkling eyes fixed on Meng.
Meng said calmly, "Let's go."
She led the way.
Yu Yu waved at Senior, then hurried to catch up.
She was completely natural, not a hint of fear.
Zi Shu, Fuyu, and Shu Tu followed immediately.
They caught up, followed by Xiang Qin and others.
Zhong Ye taunted Shang Wei. "You're all spellcasters—how'd you fall so far behind?"
She sneered, "Looks like you're cemented as eternal second place."
Shang Wei smiled naturally. "I'm naturally no match for seniors."
Zhong Ye: "…"
Xiang Qin's steps quickened.
Qing Qian watched coldly, flanked by Destiny's top warriors. He didn't like Yu Yu stealing the spotlight, but she was a lone wolf now, not as annoying as before. A lone wolf might shine early, but how could they compete with guild-backed players later?
Qing Qian scoffed, his thin, delicate eyes glinting with mockery. He strolled forward, and others dared to follow. Qing Qian wasn't just the team's spellcaster but also Destiny's vice president.
Their new president—only Qing Qian could barely keep in check, or else…
Just look at the guild name.
From "Destiny" to "Piss Off Destiny."
They were brought to an open area at the Duchess's estate, where Senior and the others seemed to be casting together.
…Clearly, they weren't walking.
Mass teleport?
Yu Yu watched intently, but pesky flies kept buzzing.
Shang Wei: "If I hadn't seen Senior now, I wouldn't know you had such a docile side."
Her narrow eyes flicked up. "Or were you born with two faces?"
Yu Yu found her annoying. "Docile? What, have I been mean to you?"
Shang Wei laughed. "Malicious, arrogant—it's all vivid. What do you think, Senior?"
Yu Yu oh-ed. "That's just me."
Zi Shu noticed the high-tier spellcasters glancing over.
…How could she warn Yu Yu?
But Yu Yu kept scolding, face cold. "I'm docile to high-tier spellcasters. Are you? Are you? Are you?"
"Are you a high-tier spellcaster?"
Zi Shu's despairing face.
Oh no, they're coming over.
Meng sauntered over, arms crossed. "Is little Yu Yu very docile to high-tier spellcasters?"
Yu Yu: "?"
Weren't you casting?
Shang Wei sneered.
Yu Yu turned innocently, seeing Senior Meng's amused smile and Senior's cold glance.
She pouted. "This jerk's annoying. I just wanted to chew her out."
"Plus, this loser? I'll be legendary before she's high-tier."
Meng laughed, and even Han gave a soft scoff.
Yu Yu sidled up to Senior, eyes sparkling. "Senior can vouch—when you weren't high-tier, wasn't I super good, extra obedient, and totally adorable?"
Felix's lips twitched. "…Shut up."
Yu Yu's disappointed face.
Felix patted her head, then said, "Teleport's ready. Let's go."
Shang Wei: "…"
Smiling outside, fuming inside.
Why did no one believe her?
She still remembered Yu Yu's arrogant sneer, malicious and vile.
Was she the only one who saw Yu Yu's true face?
Even the captain trusted her completely.
Damn it.
Shang Wei lowered her eyes, silent.
Qing Qian said leisurely, "What's the rush? There's plenty of time."
Yu Yu was already scampering after Senior to the center, not hearing them.
Zi Shu and the others, sticking close to Yu Yu, didn't hear either.
But Zhong Ye…
"Xiang Qin?"
She glared at Xiang Qin's back like she was a traitor.
Why are you sticking so close to them?
Zhong Ye chased after.
Shang Wei cursed under her breath, following.
After a dizzying flash, they appeared in a forested mountain.
It might sound coincidental, but Yu Yu had been here before.
She'd come with Lynn—met Dai up ahead, and a bit farther was the Heart of the Ancient Wood.
But…
Lynn had moved so fast, flying and leaping, Yu Yu hadn't memorized the terrain.
Kind of a pity.
It was getting dark. Meng said, "I'll assign tasks tomorrow. Rest for tonight."
Yu Yu: "…"
In the wild?
Honestly, it was her first time camping out.
But… they'd log off soon. What then?
Yu Yu fell into thought.
Meng continued, "Stay at least a hundred meters from us."
She traced a translucent barrier, letting everyone gauge for themselves.
She'd killed players before competitions for less—no one dared defy her.
Everyone obediently retreated beyond the barrier.
Yu Yu felt that rule was aimed at her.
She'd just been thinking of cozying up to the high-tier spellcasters' protection…
Yu Yu glanced over, catching Meng eyeing her, Senior leaning with arms crossed, Wolfy's cold face.
Only Han was seriously setting up a tent.
Yu Yu: "…Got it. Why look at me?"
Am I the type to shamelessly mooch protection?!
I'm not!
Walking about a hundred meters with Zi Shu and the others, Yu Yu looked around.
"Should've asked Lynn about the local terrain."
She found a slightly elevated hillock and stopped.
Zi Shu, no longer holding back, asked, "Who's Lynn?"
"Wind Singer."
Zi Shu's eyes widened.
Yu Yu: "She's pretty chill. I'll introduce you next time."
Most people wouldn't cool off so fast after being ditched like that.
Then Yu Yu remembered. "Shu Tu, here, dungeon key."
"Dungeon? What dungeon?" Fuyu was shocked.
Yu Yu: "I wasn't home yesterday, right?"
"I went on a task with Lynn and got a dungeon key."
"The reward's a bow," Yu Yu said, looking at Shu Tu. "Lynn went out of her way for it, so it's gotta be good."
"The downside is…"
Shu Tu gripped the leaf. "What?"
"Lynn struggled to clear it. It won't be easy for you…"
Shu Tu relaxed. "What's that?"
She said casually, "It's just practice."
Yu Yu grinned. "Exactly what I thought. You guys can take turns. Zi Shu and Fuyu, you should go too."
"I watched how Lynn killed the monsters—she's a pro at weak-point strikes."
"I tested it: the key lets you bypass the outer mushrooms, but the tricky inner ones are still there."
"Since it's a dungeon now, players won't die inside—just get weakened for a bit."
Shu Tu: "Where is it?"
Yu Yu thought. "Kinda far. I'll take you after the competition."
Hmm, they wouldn't run into mutants again, right?
But Lynn said that place was too close to some cape…
Why didn't the magic circle dig up that tree?
After a moment, Yu Yu said, "Before we log off, we need a safe zone."
Zi Shu plopped down. "Tell us how."
Yu Yu quickly raised stone walls, stacking them carefully. "Done, bunk beds."
"Zi Shu, Fuyu, lower bunk. Me and Shu Tu, upper."
The stone walls formed a '田' shape, a standard matchbox, one side open.
Zi Shu got it, pulling out an axe. "I'll clear some trees nearby."
Yu Yu: "Good call. I'm worried Senior Meng might pull something. We might be here more than a day."
With three high-tier spellcasters, safety wasn't an issue.
They just needed to worry about the competition's details.
While Zi Shu chopped trees, Yu Yu zoned out, watching other players' campfires.
"Why don't I know poison mist?" Yu Yu muttered. "If I cast poison mist, I could wipe them all out."
"Then we wouldn't need to compete."
Shu Tu: "…Don't say such unheroic things."
Yu Yu looked at her.
Shu Tu: "At least not out loud."
Yu Yu sighed. "No water here—epic nerf."
"Did Senior pick this place on purpose?"
"Forests soak up water spells."
Shu Tu released Banban and Baibai.
It was nearly dark. Baibai didn't fly off, and Banban stayed put.
Back in the forest, Banban was visibly cautious, even sucking in its slightly chubby belly.
"Zi Shu, caught your mount yet?"
Zi Shu, deftly chopping trees, said, "Of course. I'll show you tomorrow."
Fuyu, clearing grass with a scythe, said, "Her little unicorn is gorgeous but has a temper."
"Even Zi Shu struggles."
She looked a bit shaken.
Yu Yu: "I haven't seen a unicorn yet."
By then, Zi Shu had cleared a ring-shaped area, dragging the trees out and returning.
"They might have trouble logging off tonight."
Yu Yu: "Who cares?"
[Thorn Wall]
With Yu Yu's spell, a sharp thorny wall encircled the small clearing.
Since the area was small, the thorn wall even arched overhead, sealing them in.
In the wild, with a stone box and thorn wall enclosure, safety washed over them.
Beyond the thorns versus within felt like two different worlds.
Fuyu lit a campfire. "Won't it catch fire?"
Yu Yu: "Thorn wall is a second-ring spell. It's hard to ignite without special tools."
Zhong Ye and the others were nearby, not daring to stray too far from the high-tier spellcasters.
Most players huddled close to the barrier, sitting.
Yes, sitting.
Embarrassingly, only a few brought sleeping bags. Most had nothing.
No gear, fine… but they didn't know stone wall or thorn wall.
The only ones bold enough to leave the circle and build on high ground were Yu Yu's group.
…Why didn't they buy stone wall?
Spellcaster players started regretting.
Zhong Ye pointed. "Shang Wei, I want that."
Shang Wei, calm, said, "Didn't learn it."
"Then what did you learn?"
Shang Wei looked at her calmly. "Curse, wave of fatigue. Wanna try?"
She might not be versatile, but she hit hard. Want a taste?
Zhong Ye: "…"
Shang Wei looked away. "I didn't learn that stuff. Make do."
Zhong Ye glanced over. "Can we attack first?"
Like burning that annoying thorn wall.
Xiang Qin: "Yu Yu wouldn't overlook that."
As she spoke, the hill shook.
A massive earthen lump rose, thudding as it stood.
Two glowing yellow circles appeared on it.
Then… they blinked.
Players freaked out.
Qing Qian gasped, "That's a third-ring spell! Where'd Yu Yu get a third-ring spell? How's she casting it?"
Spirit-boosting gear cost thousands of gold in the magic circle—unaffordable.
But Yu Yu?
Players' minds exploded.
What's this? How do we compete?
Shang Wei stared, muttering, "Summon earth elemental."
"Third-ring," she added.
Yu Yu's NPC connections gave her access to resources beyond their imagination.
Shang Wei had to reassess.
She needed to act.
Befriend NPCs.
But what kind of players did NPCs like?
Ones who fake-cute like Yu Yu?
Shang Wei was deeply reluctant.
Meanwhile, Yu Yu commanded the earth elemental, "Squat."
It squatted, like a real boulder, only its round yellow eyes blinking.
Yu Yu: "Stand by, attack anything that approaches."
She, Yu Yu, had read the summoning textbook!
Though she'd only studied her two elementals, she knew basic control.
Elementals, the cornerstone of summoning, had basic intelligence and understood spellcaster commands.
The earth elemental made thudding sounds, reassembling into a tall stone block, eyes closed.
Yu Yu, satisfied, said, "Good enough."
Zi Shu, Fuyu, Shu Tu: "…"
They were out of the loop.
Fuyu: "I wove some big leaf strings. Want them?"
Shu Tu: "How?"
Fuyu: "Mosquito cover, bed curtain."
Yu Yu wasn't sure if her earth elemental would stay when she logged off.
But that didn't stop her from intimidating players.
Who knew what Meng and the others were thinking?
Maybe they wanted them to thin each other out first?
Compared to other players lying on bare ground, they had a countryside villa.
Yu Yu checked the time, logged off, and brought back four sofa pillows.
Hanging Fuyu's curtains, Yu Yu handed one to each. "Goodnight."
Shu Tu, Fuyu, and Zi Shu were thrilled with the setup. Stone was hard, but better than others' soggy dirt and leaves.
Yu Yu left a gap for ventilation when building.
Fuyu dimmed the campfire, added branches, yawned, and slipped into her curtain.
Happiness came from comparison.
Thorn wall kept out wildlife, stone wall made a perfect temp villa.
Campfire light, cozy pillows.
The massive earth elemental stood guard, exuding safety.
They sincerely marveled.
As a spellcaster, Yu Yu was perfect.
She was always, always all-rounded.
Look at the others?
Tch, Zhong Ye, Xiang Qin—sprawled on the ground, huh?
Farther off, some wove vines to sleep in trees.
Others used ice wall, attempting igloos.
Slowly, slowly, they closed their eyes.
Coincidentally, Yu Yu was the last to log off.
Her Spirit was highest, letting her linger longest.
Sensing the players gone, Yu Yu hopped down, muttering, "Can I eliminate them early?"
A low cough came from above. "Not tonight, at least."
Yu Yu looked up but saw no one.
She sighed. "Pity."
Climbing into her matchbox, she called, "Senior, Senior Meng, Senior Han, goodnight!"
Above, three mage eyes hovered close.
With players offline, Felix saw Han's tent.
She'd only set it up for herself.
Felix looked at Meng.
Meng summoned a fire elemental, copied Yu Yu's stone wall for a house, and slipped inside, silent.
Felix sighed.
Moments later, moonlight seemed to rise.
A silver-white wolf with deep blue eyes appeared, fur sleek, every inch elegant and perfect, glowing faintly like moonlight.
Forest beasts fled like they'd met a calamity.
The great silver wolf summoned stone walls, leapt up, surveyed the view, and settled down.
Wolfy sleeping.jpg