Ren exchanged a curious glance with Evie.
After a brief moment, Ren nodded and replied, "We're on a quest to Grado Path, but what treasures do you have to share with us?"
Denric's eyes twinkled with enthusiasm as he gestured dramatically to his assortment of mystical items displayed on ornate tables.
"Ah, Grado Path, a treacherous journey, indeed! But fear not, for I have treasures that may aid you on your way." He leaned in slightly, lowering his voice, "And perhaps even something more. Behold!"
With a flourish, Denric unveiled a pair of elegant gloves that shimmered with enchantment.
Denric said in a dramatic tone, "These are the Gloves of Mirage, my dear friends. They render their wearer invisible for brief moments, perfect for evading danger or surprising your foes. A mere exchange of a favor could see them in your possession."
Evie raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued. "A favor, you say? What kind of favor are you looking for?"
Denric leaned in, his voice hushed, "I have a fascination with rare and unique magical items. Perhaps you have one that I've never laid my eyes upon before? A simple exchange and these gloves could be yours."
Ren and Evie shared another knowing look, weighing the potential benefits of Denric's offer. They also couldn't shake the feeling that Denric's interests aligned with theirs, given their quest to uncover Salister Kane's true nature.
Ren said after a moment's consideration, "We may have just the item you seek, Denric. But first, tell us more about these magical items you possess."
Denric's eyes gleamed with satisfaction at their interest, and he proceeded to regale them with tales of each magical item's capabilities, each story more captivating than the last.
As Ren and Evie engaged in a discussion with Denric about the enchanted items on display, they found themselves engrossed in the high elf's captivating tales.
But suddenly, their exchange was interrupted by the arrival of a group of players.
These newcomers were clad in various styles of armor and brandishing an array of weapons, signaling their adventuring backgrounds.
With curiosity in their eyes, they approached Ren, who was closest to the display of mystical treasures.
Player 1 asked with a sense of urgency, "Hey there! Are you folks here for the monster hunt in Grado Path?"
Evie was momentarily taken aback by the unexpected interruption, and she exchanged glances with Ren before answering, "We've taken up the quest to eliminate the creature causing trouble in the area."
Player 2 wore a slight frown, clearly displeased. "Well, it seems that both our monsters are located here. So, if you know what's best for you, you'll step aside and let us take down this creature."
Player 3 chimed in with a nod of agreement, "Indeed, this monster's hide and scales would make some fantastic armor upgrades. Our focus is on improving our gear. Don't interfere with our goals."
One of the players scratched his chin, eyeing Ren and Evie suspiciously. "Wait a minute . . . Aren't you Ren from World Conqueror?"
"He really is Ren!"
The murmurs continued as Ren and Evie found themselves surrounded by adventurers.
Ren realized that these players weren't going to budge. While he and Evie were on a quest assigned by Salister Kane, these adventurers seemed to be here for a different creature.
"The creatures we're hunting aren't the same," Ren explained, offering a compromise. "How about you go on your hunt while we go on ours, and we won't get in each other's way?"
The players shook their heads, adamant in their stance.
"No can do," one of them replied. "We've been tracking this monster for days. We can't afford any mishaps now."
"So you're saying we might accidentally steal your kill?" Ren asked, getting straight to the point.
"We don't see any reason why you wouldn't," came the unwavering response.
Ren's patience was wearing thin, and his expression darkened.
"Hold on a minute." A player laughed. "What's with that look? Are you suggesting a fight? There are over fifty of us and only two of you. You can't possibly think you can beat us. So while we're still asking nicely — fuck off!"
A vein visibly throbbed on Ren's forehead, while Evie discreetly shook her head for the opposing side.
Why does it always have to be so complicated? Evie couldn't help but think. Trouble seemed to find them at every turn.
Meanwhile, Denric, who had been silently observing the interaction, stepped forward with his characteristic dramatic flair.
Denric waved a hand theatrically and said, "Ah, how intriguing! A diverse group of adventurers, each with their own motives, all converging on the same quest. What a splendid twist of fate! Might I suggest a mutually beneficial partnership, my dear friends?"
The players and Ren and Evie exchanged wary glances, their expressions making it clear that cooperation was unlikely in this tense situation.
Denric didn't stop and urged everyone, "Perhaps we can all come to an arrangement. Since Ren and Evie were the first to arrive in this area, you'll have to step aside for now and allow them to finish their quest first. You can take your turn afterward."
But the rival players, driven by their unyielding greed, were unwilling to relent. Tension began to build, and their eyes gleamed with avarice as they regarded Ren.
"We appreciate the offer, but we've been chasing this creature for a while now. We won't just step aside."
"Besides, it's not every day we come across adventurers like you with such hefty bounties on their heads."
"Maybe we should just kill you, after all and claim that bounty for ourselves!"
The other laughed while those who watched the footage of Ren massacring players who were considered the best of the best couldn't help but warn the others in a hush voice.
Still, they were unwilling to relent his spot.
Ren's eyes narrowed as he realized that there was no reasoning form this group. The rivalry over the spot had escalated, and their recognition of his bounty only fueled their determination.
