Chapter 52: A Generous Proposal

For a good half hour, Saad sat by his window, gazing out at the world beyond, lost in thought. The cigarette burned slowly in his hand, the smoke spiraling upward, carrying with it his worries and frustrations. He knew he needed to find a balance between his virtual life and the real world, but right now, he craved the escape that only the soft, rhythmic exhales of smoke could provide.

As the cigarette dwindled to its end, Saad stubbed it out in the ashtray. He was aware that he couldn't keep using this as a crutch, but sometimes it just became too hard to resist the immediate relaxation it offered.

With renewed determination, Saad returned to his room and retrieved his VR headset. He carefully placed it over his head, securing it in place. The familiar hum of the virtual world beckoned him as he powered on his system.

As the game's loading screen appeared, Saad took a deep breath. This was his sanctuary, his place of dreams and adventures. Here, he could be the hero, face any challenge, and emerge victorious. With a sense of purpose, he started the game once more, ready to escape into a world where he could control his destiny, even if it was just for a little while.

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As the game loaded, Saad found himself standing inside his virtual home. The familiar surroundings immediately put him at ease – the warm bed, the simple yet comforting environment. It was a stark contrast to the arguments and tensions of the real world. Here, he could breathe freely, if only for a while.

Determined to focus on his mission, Saad made his way downstairs. It was still early in the virtual world, and his virtual family had gathered for breakfast. He could practically taste the delicious flavors of the virtual food. Clearing his throat, he decided to approach Throneval, and , Luxon, about his financial troubles.

As Throneval and Luxon got up to go manage their store, Saad followed them, his thoughts swirling with uncertainty. He didn't want to jeopardize his virtual father and grandfather's warmth and familiarity, but he knew he had to broach the topic delicately.

Before he could muster the words, Luxon, chuckled and asked, "Kael, my boy, what's on your mind? You seem troubled."

Saad seized the opportunity, using the game's suggestion system to respond with perfect manners. "Father, Grandfather, I have some news to share. I've recently become an apprentice to a skilled herbalist, but she's facing some financial difficulties. I want to support her in any way I can."

As they entered the store, Saad's heart pounded with nervous anticipation. To his surprise, the store was larger and more impressive than he had expected, dealing in a variety of goods, including clothing, potions, and jewelry.

Luxon and Throneval exchanged impressed glances, clearly touched by Saad's compassionate heart. They exchanged a few whispered words before turning their attention back to him.

Luxon smiled warmly. "Saad, we're proud of your kindness. Here's a proposal, if you're willing to work in the store for just two hours every day, we'll reward you with 6 spheres each day."

Saad was shocked by their generosity. He quickly agreed, feeling a mixture of gratitude and relief wash over him. "Thank you, Father, Grandfather. I'm ready to start right away."

As Saad was about to begin his work at the store, a series of message windows appeared before him.

[Congratulations. You have started your job as the apprentice merchant. You have received three authorities.]

Job: Apprentice Merchant

Days worked: 0

1. Inventory Check: You are able to check what's available but you cannot take out anything without owner's permission.

2. Salesman's Quirk: Your perception about the customer's need increased by 40%

3. Negotiation: Gain of skill Negotiation increases by 30%

Payment: 6 spheres/ 2 hours

Excitement coursed through him as he accepted these newfound responsibilities. To think earning money would be so easy. He realized in that moment that Kael wasn't a bad character to earn money and if he focused fully on just being a merchant, maybe he could earn even more!

With newfound enthusiasm, Saad got to work. As customers arrived, he greeted them warmly, introducing himself as a new member of the store. He diligently cleaned and organized the shop, taking cues and lessons from Luxon, and Throneval, about the intricacies of running the business.

Saad's two-hour shift passed swiftly, and as it came to an end, he was rewarded with 6 spheres. His heart swelled with pride and accomplishment. He couldn't believe he was actually earning in this virtual world.

Before leaving the shop, Saad turned to Luxon and asked, "Father, do you have any enchanted bottles for sale?"

Luxon smiled and handed him a beautifully crafted enchanted bottle as a gift. "Take this one, Kael. Consider it a token of our appreciation for your hard work." Of course the man was spoiling his son and Saad couldn't be happier. He had save 7 spheres! Being rich was the best!

Saad thanked him, feeling a sense of warmth and belonging he hadn't experienced in a long time. With the enchanted bottle in hand, he left the shop and made his way to Moon Cave to get the sparkling water and get done with the annoying quest.

Saad, with a hint of excitement in his voice, entered the cozy cottage of the Ashen Witch. He respectfully presented her with the sparkling moon water she had requested.

"Master, I've brought you the sparkling moon water as requested," Saad said with a slight bow.

The Ashen Witch's ancient eyes gleamed with approval as she examined the precious liquid.

"Ah, splendid! You've done well, my young apprentice. This water will be invaluable for our potions. But, alas, if only my greenhouse were in better condition..."

[You have complete the quest, the apprentice's Journey-III]

Ah- there it was again. He had thought that this might happen. He had just completed a quest but she was giving him next one without even teaching him anything about herbs!

"Your greenhouse, Master? What's wrong with it?" he still asked, there was no other way after all. He had decided to be persistent and do all these random quests!

The Ashen Witch sighed, her gaze momentarily distant. "It's in a state of disrepair, my dear. The torn roof lets in too much sunlight during the day, and it's nearly impossible to maintain the right atmosphere for my plants and experiments."

Saad was annoyed but then again, he also knew that he would be told to fix the greenhouse soon , since she had made him clean it all up. "I see... Is there anything I can do to help?" he asked thoughtfully.

The Ashen Witch feigned helplessness, a sly smile tugging at her lips. "Well, it's not an easy task, you know. Repairing the greenhouse would require a specific type of enchanted wood, the Wood of Ethereal Oak. It's a rare material, and I doubt you could find it."

Saad wanted to roll his eyes, he could see it clearly how she was using him. "I'll find it, Master. I'll do whatever it takes to restore your greenhouse," he declared with determination.

The Ashen Witch's smirk widened at Saad's determination. "Oh, Kael, you truly are a diligent apprentice. Very well, If you can bring me the Wood of Ethereal Oak and repair the greenhouse, I promise to teach you some of my most potent alchemical secrets."

[Apprentice's Journey- IV]

The greenhouse is in shambles and before it is repaired, your master is unable to grow rare and unique herbs.

- Quest Details -

Ethereal Oak Wood: 0/100

Difficulty: D

Rewards:

Experience points: +100

Recipe of low rank stamina potion

Saad's heart swelled with eagerness. It was a low rank recipe but he was finally making progress! "Thank you, Master! I won't let you down. I'll get started on this quest right away."

The Ashen Witch, her mood lightened by Saad's determination, couldn't help but feel a hint of fondness for her diligent apprentice. With a reassuring smile, she patted Saad on the shoulder. Saad saw the message window and realized that him being so nice had paid off a little.

[Your familiarity with Ashen With has increased.]

"Very well, Kael. You can begin the repairs of the greenhouse later. For now, let's make the most of your time here."

With a sense of urgency, she scurried off to her alchemical room, a place filled with mysterious ingredients, bubbling cauldrons, and the intoxicating scent of herbs. She called him to the room and Saad saw her with a collection of herbs and vials, her aged hands moving with a practiced grace.

"Now, Kael, I'll teach you a thing or two about the art of potion-making. Watch closely," she said, her voice a low, soothing cadence.

The Ashen Witch began to prepare low-rank health potions. She explained the significance of each herb she used and how their properties interacted to create a curative effect. As she worked, Saad's eyes remained fixed on her, absorbing every detail like a sponge.