This mirrors the realm of gaming.

Previously, it was akin to battling a solitary computer adversary.

Difficult yet guided by strategy.

Now, we must contend with rival players, each potentially an enemy.

Is that the essence of the matter? Quite so.

The two individuals offered an interpretation of the randomized events.

The celebratory atmosphere within the channel, once vibrant with victory, quickly diminished into a solemn silence.

The cessation of mandatory tasks does not signify an end, but rather heralds a new beginning.

Greater challenges await them.

And these lords, much like characters within a game, are poised to experience an array of novel gameplay mechanics.

Endlessly devised to captivate an enigmatic audience.

Ah, speaking of which, I came to seek the esteemed Fong How to Purchase the Spring Fountain.

Your alarming remarks nearly caused me to forget my purpose.

Indeed, I too must acquire some.

Subsequently, several individuals initiated private conversations with Fong Hao, aiming to procure the spring fountain to restore their vitality.

Chapter 145.

The Merchant Alliance.

The following dawn.

As Fongo rose from his slumber, he was informed by Eier that the skeletal merchant had been patiently awaiting his arrival at the market.

Upon reflecting on the time, he realized that it was not yet the hour for restocking the marketplace.

Thus, the merchant's presence likely pertained to a recommendation from the bone king.

In order to sell his wares of the market, Fongghao needed to join an alliance known as the celestial eye, a prerequisite of which was a recommendation from an established member.

The skeletal merchant Rul had learned of Fongghow's intent to join the Alliance and offered his assistance in securing an introduction to King Odysius of the undead in hopes of garnering the approval of this sovereign of the restless.

After all, Fong Ho was among the select few who had recently carved out new territories within the realm of the undead, and the Bone King might very well support a newcomer from the same faction.

Many days had elapsed since this matter was broached, and today seemed to be the culmination of that endeavor.

The outcome would soon reveal itself.

Upon arriving at the market area, Fong Ho found Rul calmly seated, awaiting him in silence.

The undead are impervious to the ravages of time.

The passage of years holds no sway over them.

Even a day spent in quietude would not be regarded as wasted time.

My lord, Rul rose to offer a respectful bow as Fonggha approached.

Good morning, Mr.

Rul.

Fong Hao replied with a warm smile.

My lord, I have come regarding the matter of the recommendation letter.

Are you stated directly? Indeed, Fonggha's demeanor remained unaltered.

Yet his heart raced in anticipation.

The success of this recommendation was pivotal for his next steps.

Oh, what did Lord Odysius have to say? Fongghao inquired.

Lord Odysius has consented but is not without cost.

RuL grasped his staff firmly.

What the terms? Please, Mr.

Rul, speak plainly.

I shall not hesitate to meet reasonable demands.

Fong How responded, recognizing that the ability to present a request was in itself a positive indication.

There are no free lunches in this world, and unsolicited assistance often breeds apprehension.

To join, you must forfeit 20% of your profits from all merchandise sold for the next 200 years.

At this Funghow's expression turned grave, or alternatively, a sum of 10,000 battle coins, Fongo s previously restrained smile reemerged.

The perception of time for the undead diverges significantly from that of humans.

Two centuries to them is merely an increment in count of years.

Yet for Fongghao, the certainty of his existence beyond that span was tenuous at best.

He was uncertain whether he too would undergo the transformation ceremony in the future, but for the time being, 200 years felt insurmountably long.

So much so that the mere mention of it seemed almost unfathomable.

When weighed against the prospect of yielding 20% of his profits for 200 years, Fong Hao found himself more inclined to accept the condition of 10,000 battle coins, a figure that, while exorbitant for a typical lord, was still within his means to procure.

The enhancements afforded to his crafted items were designed specifically for the market, enabling him to rise to this challenge.

With minimal resources, one can produce items in bulk and swiftly sell them at nearly the same price, competing fiercely against established merchants for market share.

Therefore, it is crucial to join alliances and connect with other factions.

Similarly, Odyssey's ambition for a 20% profit over the next two centuries directly influences his plans.

It might be better to make a one-time investment and secure a buyout outright.

Is there room for negotiation? Funha inquired.

that was expressly stated by Lord Odis came the reply implying that negotiation was not an option if it is settled when shall you take me to join the heavenly I'm merchant alliance today would suffice the letter of recommendation is merely a formality not an actual document I shall guide you through the necessary procedures Ruer explained Fongghow nodded and called over a distant rabbit made named Yur instructing her to prepare 10,000 battle coins for delivery yes master the rabbit maid replied and hurried away.

Before long, your returned accompanied by two skeletons who carried a chest filled with gleaming coins.

"Mr.

Ruer, please count them.

" Fong How urged, observing the chest brimming with battle coins.

The flickering flame of soul within Ruer s eyes betrayed a hint of surprise.

Although 10,000 battle coins is a modest sum for established powers, it was remarkable that Fongous territory with its market barely a month old could so effortlessly produce such wealth.

No need to count.

When do you plan to depart and become a member of the merchant alliance? The sooner the better, Ruer continued.

What does the process entail? I would like to be informed.

Funha pressed further.

I brought a teleportation scroll to the heavenly I'm merchant alliance headquarters capable of transporting up to three individuals.

Registration upon arrival is straightforward and a likelihood of rejection is very low.

Ruer explained patiently.

After a moment of contemplation, Fongo replied, "Mr.

Ruer, I will make preparations.

We shall depart in 20 minutes.

" "Very well.

" 20 minutes later, Fongo finished his breakfast and approached with Anja.

Each hero in the territory had their designated role.

The Fireb Blade was stationed in the eastern subsidiary city, guarding the east while being readily available to assist with any developments in the Mana market.

Nelson was secluded in the Oregon Museum crafting skeletal heroes.

The remaining heroes, Blood Hunter, and Anja were present.

Given Anja's temperament was ills suited for cityguarding, she accompanied Fong Hao, serving as a bodyguard instead.

Recently, Anja seemed to have undergone a change, no longer as wild as before.

Just the other day, Nelson mentioned that Anja sought his guidance in chess, losing several games in a row.

Had it not been for Nelson's formidable presence, Anja might have smashed the chessboard in frustration.

Yet, this shift in her behavior indicated a gradual transformation in her character.

Mr.

Ruer, we are ready to depart.

All right.

Ruer wasted no time.

unfurling a scroll that illuminated a soft blue light before Fong Hao.

Fong had encountered this luminous curtain before.

During the second compulsory mission, Nature's Revenge, the Guardians of Nature emerged through such a light screen to launch attacks on various territories.

One might perceive this light screen as a portal.

Once entered, it would transport one elsewhere.

Please, after you, said Ruer, stepping boldly into the light curtain.

Fonggha and Injia followed closely behind, stepping into the radiant veil.

A wave of disorientation washed over them, and when they opened their eyes again, they found themselves in an unfamiliar local.