Preparations and Renovations

With the Beast Hunting Event only three days away, Elian was grateful for the unexpected break from classes. The academy was closed during these pre-event days, giving him precious time to focus on preparations. He recalled the beast parts he had acquired during his recent hunts—valuable trophies that could fetch a handsome price in the market. After a quick calculation, he realized that his gold coins had already swelled to an impressive sum from previous battles.

Later that morning, in the privacy of his modest sanctuary, Elian activated his system interface. The screen displayed his current balance: 10,930 Gold Coins. He quickly navigated to the trade tab and listed the high-quality beast parts—the melted shards of the Frost Golem and other trophies from his hunts. Within a short time, a deal was struck, and his account swelled with additional wealth. The extra funds would be crucial for both equipment upgrades and other necessities for the upcoming event.

As he sat back, the familiar voice of Eve filled his mind.

"Elian, now that you have secured additional funds, it's time to plan your further preparations. For the Beast Hunting Event, you should consider acquiring healing potions, mana restoratives, and perhaps some upgraded defensive gear. Also, additional storage for your beast parts would be beneficial," she advised.

Elian pondered this. He already had his upgraded Shadow Storage skill for item management, but there was something more he needed—a permanent, secure location to store his valuable beast parts away from prying eyes. His thoughts drifted to his secluded house, a relic of his parents that now served as his sanctuary. It was time to renovate.

Determined, he gathered his things and headed into the heart of Arcadia's bustling commercial district, where ancient traditions met futuristic enterprise. He made his way to Blackwood Construction, a well-known company that specialized in bespoke renovations and enchanted architecture.

At the reception, he was greeted by a burly man with a confident stance and sharp, calculating eyes.

"You must be Elian Drayven," the man said, extending a strong hand. "I'm Silas Voss, head contractor at Blackwood Construction. I understand you need some work done?"

Elian nodded, briefly explaining his plan. "I need an underground storage room added to my house—secure, enchanted, and large enough to store beast parts and other valuables. I want it built to withstand any prying magical detection."

Silas Voss listened intently, his expression thoughtful.

"I've handled projects like this before," he replied. "We'll incorporate reinforced wards and magically sealed compartments. It won't just be a storage room; it'll be a fortress beneath your home."

As they walked through a holographic projection of his property, Silas detailed his plan. The renovation would involve digging out a subterranean chamber beneath the old structure, lining it with enchanted stone, and installing a series of arcane locks that only Elian could access via his Shadow Storage interface. Silas's team, composed of skilled renovators and enchanters, was known for their discretion and efficiency.

Elian's mind raced with possibilities. Not only would the new storage room safeguard his hard-earned resources, but it would also serve as a hidden workshop for future upgrades. With the Beast Hunting Event fast approaching and his gear slowly coming together, every detail was crucial.

After finalizing the contract and transferring part of his newly earned funds as an advance, Elian left Blackwood Construction with a renewed sense of purpose. The renovations were scheduled to begin immediately, ensuring his sanctuary would be as fortified as his growing reputation.

Outside, as the busy streets of Arcadia hummed with life, Elian glanced at his interface one last time. The countdown for the event was still ticking—only three days remained. Yet, with each preparation, he felt one step closer to mastering not just his abilities, but his destiny.