Chapter 15 – The Path to Power

Qin Sheng emerged from the glowing portal, finding himself back at the outskirts of the Verdant Wilds. The once-corrupted forest now radiated vitality, its vibrant colors a testament to his victory over Thalgron. Birds chirped melodiously, and beams of sunlight pierced through the dense foliage, illuminating his path.

[System Notification: Transportation Zone unlocked – Verdant Wilds Outskirts.]

He took a deep breath, savoring the fresh air. His body felt stronger, energized by his recent level-up to Level 12. New power coursed through his veins, and the Nature's Grasp skill he'd acquired buzzed at his fingertips, eager to be used.

His minions gathered around him—Velnar, the steadfast F-Rank Minion Boss, and Gorath, the hulking F-Rank Minion. Both had proven their worth in the previous battles, their loyalty unwavering. Floating nearby was the Grove Sentinel, now bound to him through the Eclipse Dominion, while the Silverwind Hatchling circled above, its silvery feathers glinting in the sunlight.

"Time to head back to town," Qin Sheng muttered. "I need to sort through all this loot."

He activated his inventory, examining the spoils from the Verdant Wilds. Alongside the Verdant Emblem and Skill Stone, he had amassed several pieces of equipment, herbs, and valuable crafting materials. It was the perfect haul to boost his in-game currency.

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Novice Town – Merchant District

The town buzzed with activity. Players and NPCs bartered, shouted deals, and showcased rare items. Qin Sheng set up his stall near the central square, spreading out various pieces of gear and items he'd collected.

[System Notification: Player Stall established.]

Almost immediately, a crowd gathered, attracted by the rare loot on display. Players inspected weapons, armor, and potions, their eyes wide with excitement.

"Is that a Verdant Blade?!" one player exclaimed.

"I've been searching for this armor set!" another shouted.

Qin Sheng managed the crowd with ease, answering questions and offering advice. One new player hesitated before picking up a Grove-Infused Bow.

"Should I go for this? I'm running an Archer build," the player asked nervously.

Qin Sheng nodded. "It has nature-based bonuses. Perfect for crowd control and extra poison damage. You'll dominate in the next zone."

The player beamed, purchasing the bow without hesitation.

As the day wore on, Qin Sheng's stall thrived. Just as he was about to pack up, a familiar voice called out.

"Doing good business, I see."

He turned to see Lia, her emerald-green hair swaying as she approached. Her amber eyes sparkled with amusement, and her sleek leather armor hugged her form as she crossed her arms.

"Lia," he greeted with a smirk. "Didn't expect you here."

She chuckled. "You think I'd miss out on rare loot sales? Besides, I heard about your latest victory. Defeating Thalgron isn't something just anyone can do."

Qin Sheng shrugged. "It wasn't easy, but I managed. Picked up a few things along the way."

Her eyes flicked to the Silverwind Hatchling circling above him. "I see that. Looks like you're attracting quite the entourage."

He grinned. "Part of the plan."

Lia leaned closer, her voice lowering. "I've been scouting ahead. There's word of a hidden path leading to the Beginner Zone. It won't be easy, but it could give us an edge."

Qin Sheng's interest piqued. "Sounds like a challenge worth taking."

She smiled. "I thought you'd say that."

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Back to Adventure

With his stall packed and his pockets full of currency, Qin Sheng decided it was time to push forward. The beginner zones were behind him, and the Beginner Zone loomed ahead.

But before leaving, there was one more task.

He opened his inventory and inspected the mysterious egg he had acquired from Thalgron. It pulsated with a soft, golden light.

[System Notification: Mysterious Egg – Time until hatching: 12 hours.]

"Let's see what you become," he whispered.

With a smirk, Qin Sheng gathered his minions and set off toward the next challenge, Lia walking by his side, their path intertwined as they stepped into the unknown.