Ryou's heart raced as he darted through Blue Burn Town's cobblestone streets, weaving through the bustling commercial area with a speed that left onlookers bewildered. His hurried pace attracted fleeting glances, but his maneuvers were too swift for anyone to discern his identity.
Navigating a labyrinth of alleyways, houses, and even scaling walls, Ryou reached a plaza teeming with players. Swiftly, he blended into the crowd, seamlessly swapping his distinctive Snow Shirt and other gear for nondescript novice equipment. The process was effortless, in New World, changing equipment was accomplished with a click to store current items and another to don new ones.
Ryou then sought refuge in a tavern. Alone in a secluded corner, he underwent a metamorphosis, altering his facial features and stature to his real identity, a 17-year-old teen. The Blood Orb, once resembling fresh blood, now bore a coagulated hue, he scrutinized it for a moment then stowed it in his space bag.
Stepping back into the virtual streets, Ryou's heightened senses were now attuned to the lack of pursuers. Though uncertainty lingered about completely eluding all followers, he would resignedly accept it even if there were more because he had exhausted every trick to sever unwanted ties.
Wandering away from the polished main streets, Ryou traversed a labyrinth of ever-narrowing alleys, burrowing deep into a neglected part of the town. The surroundings morphed into a decaying tableau—shabby buildings, cautious faces, and a sparse populace marked by the duality of prey and predator. Garbage festered in gutters, spilled from bins, and the air bore the noxious blend of dirt, wood smoke, and shit dumped unceremoniously into the streets.
In the midst of this gritty panorama, Ryou found himself ensnared by the meticulous details etched into the fabric of New World. Despite the desolation and the palpable air of undesirability, he marveled at the developers' unwavering dedication. East Bridge, a manifestation of their commitment to realism, stood as a stark reflection of poverty and society's indifference—a virtual mirror to the harsh realities of the real world.
Navigating through a familiar beggar's alley, Ryou rounded a corner and discovered Elsa's shop. Stepping inside, he discovered Elsa seated in a peach-colored tunic.
Upon spotting Ryou, Elsa rose from her seat, a surprise lighting up her expression. "Young adventurer, what brings you here again?" Her perplexity was palpable.
"Last time, you mentioned we'd meet again if fate permits, didn't you?" Ryou smiled, continuing, "Whether by fate or not, I do need your help, Miss Elsa.”
“Help you say?” She tilted her head in inquiry.
"Miss Elsa, I want you to be my Player aide, essentially to be as an NPC player," Ryou paused, allowing her to absorb his words.
In New World, the residents possessed a unique awareness that they were NPCs, and visitors from other worlds were referred to as Players. When questioned about this knowledge, they simply claimed it was a natural understanding.
Ryou, taking a deep breath, presented his terms with a delicate earnestness. "I want to establish a contract," he began. "My terms are simple—I seek your help in a simple task, and I swear not to do anything detrimental to you. It's for both our benefits. You can leave this slum, become stronger, and, as a prerequisite for being my Player aide, I can return your engagement ring to you." The words lingered in the air, as he waited for a reply.
Ryou's proposed contract was a transformative opportunity for NPCs—to become like players, growing through defeating monsters and advancing skills faster. Death, once a terminal event, would became a temporary setback, allowing them to revive in a nearby cemetery without the need for resurrection magic.
However, the contract holds two significant clauses. Firstly, NPCs must yield to a contractual obedience, addressing their contracted players as 'Master,' which many Npc found distasteful. Secondly, there is looming threat of permanent death for NPC in case of failing to pay the daily fee to the system.
These two terms, in his past life had acted as a formidable deterrent that limited the number of NPC player contracts tied to a single individual.
Elsa, initially bewildered, let her eyes settle. With a playful smile, she responded, "What simple task can I serve you, young adventurer?".
Elsa was a woman in her mid twenties with mature charms and couple with her cozy words she appeared very seductive while giggling.
Ignoring her unexpected playful words, Ryou spoke, "Miss Elsa, for now, since I cannot pay the system for a strong NPC Aide, I'd like you to learn this alchemy recipe only, and we can sell the products you make to the players," Ryou explained, unveiling the lesser potion recipe. "Later, as we accumulate enough money from the sales, you can choose to level up and grow stronger, but within the limitations of focusing solely on alchemy-related skills, Miss Elsa.”
"I see, so you want to make me an Alchemist Player aide," Elsa remarked.
In Ryou's previous life, many formidable players followed this trend, prioritizing battle-related skills and delegating sub-job responsibilities like alchemy or blacksmithing to contracted NPC Player. Ryou, too, had chosen an NPC as his alchemist but eventually became a blacksmith due to his financial constraints.
Now, he aimed to have Elsa as his alchemist, considering the connection with her, her likelihood to accept the contract was the highest at the moment. This arrangement would allow him to focus on leveling up his battle-related skills while Elsa handled the alchemical tasks. With more income, he could eventually hire additional NPCs to expand his operations.
Elsa looked at the parchment, her face reflecting contemplation. After a moment of thoughtful silence, she said, "I am not a genius, nor do I have a foundation for doing alchemy. Are you still sure you want to hire me?"
Ryou chuckled, "I would be grateful if you're not exceptionally skilled, it'll be easier on my purse. Miss Elsa, don't worry about being a genius NPC. I don't need that at the moment."
Elsa chuckled in response, "Young adventurer, or should I say young master, I am fine with establishing an NPC Player's contract.”
A golden scroll materialized between them,there was also a golden quill that inscribed their names, and bearing the terms of the contract, rules, precautions, and the fees for hiring Elsa.
System: Do you want to make Elsa Granloe your aide?
Y/N.
Ryou's eyes widened momentarily at the cost, and he looked at Elsa, remarking, "Miss Elsa, it looks like the system deems you as talented to say the least."
The price, set at 10 silver per day, revealed the expense of elevating Elsa from an NPC to a player. While this might not be considered exorbitant for such a transformation, Elsa, being a low-level NPC likely below level 5, raised questions about the seemingly higher-than-usual cost. Ryou couldn't help but wonder if it was a reflection of her talent.
"Looks like I am, young master. I guess I would put a dent in master's purse after all," Elsa playfully joked, covering her mouth with her hand. "So, master, would you contract me?"
"Of course, I would. Your talent is just a bonus, after all," Ryou replied.
Ryou clicked the ‘Y’ button, and the contract split into two, seamlessly entering both Ryou and Elsa's bodies.
System: Congratulations, you have gained an Aide Elsa Granloe. You are the first player to gain an aide; you gain a title ‘Master’
Master: Gain a +50 status in any human kingdom
Ryou inwardly smiled because 50 status meant he be gaining a high-ranking official status.
This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it
He then removed the silver ring from his left index finger and handed it back to Elsa. "Take it, Miss Elsa," he insisted, anticipating her reluctance. "I know you want it since it's an item that binds you to your husband."
Elsa wore a sad expression, but she shook her head resolutely. "No, keep it, young master. I want to move on from this point onward,” Elsa turned to look at her shop and said, “I want to move from this shop as well, this place holds memories of my husband, and I've shed enough tears here. From now on, I wish to dedicate myself to helping you, young master.”
"Alright, if that's the case, you can move out and rent a house in the main district. I'll cover the fees," Ryou suggested.
"I already have a home in the main district, young Master," Elsa revealed.
"Perfect. Learn this recipe first, and then we can head to your home and start making potions later," Ryou instructed. He presented a collection of 10 stalks each of three different herbs. "These are the ingredients needed for the recipe.”
“...”
Walking through East Bridge with Elsa carrying a bag of herbs, Ryou observed a half-blue, half-green symbol above her head, indicating her status as an NPC player. Curious, he decided to check her stats, he could only do that because she was now his aide.
___________
Character: Elsa Granloe (Half-nymph)
Class: Druid
Rank: Beginner
Level: 3 (Next level +674 Exp)
HP: 70/70
MP: 380/380
Strength 1
Agility 2
Defense 1
Intelligence 18
Vitality 1
Physical Attack: 1
Magical Attack: 37
Attack Speed: 1
Movement Speed: 1
Endurance: 3
Physical Resistance: 2
Weapon Mastery:
Staff Mastery: 7
Staff Damage by 7%
Sub job:
Beginner Alchemist. (Proficiency 0%)
Recipe learned (Lesser Potion)
Sub class: None
Skills:
[Sweet-Scent] (Rank 1 Basic Spell)
Release a scent from one’s body to intoxicate someone for 4 seconds Skill Level: 1 (Proficiency 52%)
_______________
Comprehension dawned on Ryou, as to why Elsa's cost for becoming a Npc player was high– she was a half-nymph, they were renowned for their human-like allure, dwelling in enchanted forests, and mastering magic and the art of seduction, Elsa's innate charm and magical prowess marked her as a valuable asset.
Rather than trailing Elsa to her home, Ryou, disclosed his impending logout, but before they part, he emphasized to ignore if players inquired about her unique symbol.
Prior to logging out, Ryou seized an opportunity to sell his in-game coins directly through the site PowerCredits. Checking the market rates, he discovered the brisk demand, with offers reaching up to 1000 yen for 1 bronze. Acting swiftly, he sold all his coins at 7.8 silver for 800 yen. The transaction with a person name Green Card unfolded seamlessly, and Ryou, appreciative of the swift exchange, expressed gratitude before logging out.
As the virtual world faded away, Ryou couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. In a single day, a mere 12,000 yen investment had yielded a substantial return, totaling up to 624,000 yen—a testament to the lucrative possibilities within the confines of the gaming cafe's sleeping pod.
Ryou exited the gaming capsule, leaving behind the neon-lit confines of the gaming cafe, surprising the clerk with an early departure that defied the norm.
Most gamers clung to their virtual realms until forcibly evicted, but Ryou, with a display of rare restraint, emerged into the tangible world two hours before the 12-hour limit.
Stepping into the cityscape, he found himself enveloped in the modernity of futuristic shops and houses, a stark contrast from the virtual world. The streets unfolded with lanes for cars and footpaths for pedestrians, and some even boasted gliding paths—a luxurious amenity reserved for the privileged few. Buoyed by his gaming triumph, Ryou decided to indulge himself.
Approaching the gliding path stop, he entered the gliding cube, it was a spacious cubes capable of accommodating 2 adults, but it had one seat. As the gliding cube smoothly traversed the urban expanse, he retrieved his cell phone, dialing his mother to share the news of his victorious gaming escapade.
The phone rang for a while before Ryou's mother picked up. "Hello, Ryou-kun. Didn't you say you were playing that VR game or something today? What happened?"
"Oka-san, are you getting ready to go to your job?"
"I'm currently preparing breakfast for Remi. I'll go to my job later. Why do you ask?"
Ryou's heart tightened. "You don't need to go to your job again, Oka-san. Like I said yesterday, I could, and I have made the money. If you don't believe me, look at your account. I just sent 100,000 yen—it's from the money I got from selling coins.”
His mother, Miyoko, had never trusted him much, so Ryou had already sent her the money as proof that he genuinely earned it. Moments later, a thud was heard on the other side of the phone.
Ryou's heart panicked, fearing his mother might have collapsed from shock. He screamed, "Oka-san, Oka-san, are you okay?" The seconds that followed felt like an eternity as he anxiously awaited a response.
"Sorry, Ryou-kun, I slipped my hands, so… you really didn't do any nasty things to get that money, did you?" Miyoko's voice quivered.
"Oka-san!" He was relieved that his mother was okay, but he yelled, his voice indignant. "Do you really think I would do anything wrong to get money? You don't believe me?"
"I do believe you, Ryou-kun, but this kind of money is..." Miyoko's voice trailed off, grappling with the unbelievable reality that earning such a sum in just 10 hours or so seemed implausible.
Ryou could understand where his mother was coming from, considering he did acquire his wealth with the advantage of cheat knowledge from being a reincarnated person. However, he continued with self-righteous words, "I have been studying strategies very hard in playing VR games, so it was just my real capabilities that got me 'this kind of money.' Oka-san, you really don't have to work anymore. Go to the hospital, I'll bring takoyaki with me."
On the verge of tears, Miyoko replied, “O-K s-on.” The relief and gratitude in her voice were palpable, emotions woven into the syllables as a weight lifted from her shoulders, realizing her son had indeed crafted a path to a different, more secure future.
“...”
When Ryou entered his sister's ICU room, his mother was already there, sitting by the bedside. She looked at him as he entered.
“Oka-san, Nee-san, I have brought snacks,” he said, raising the fast food in four plastic bags. Inside were takoyaki, onigiri yakisoba, and his sister's favorite, rainbow dango.
"Ryou-chan, so you really have become rich now, huh? Come here, let Nee-san give you a congratulatory hug," his sister was cheerful as usual but today it was accompanied by a joyful tear that glistened on her face.
Ryou didn't hesitate as he ran and gave his sister a loving and careful hug, mindful of the wires connected to her body. The hospital room, filled with the beeping of machines and the sterile scent of antiseptic, became a space of warmth and familial love.
After being released from the hug, Ryou, smiling and holding back tears, said, "I've brought something you like, Nee."
"What, what, what is it? Ehehe, is it ramen?" His sister gleamed with excitement.
“Ehh!" Ryou's face froze again for the second time that day. Since it's been many years, maybe he might have forgotten his sister's favorite, had he somehow mixed up the fact that his sister liked ramen and not rainbow dango? His sister tried to look around his back to see the snacks he brought, but with his face turning red, Ryou attempted to hide them, as if that would not dampen his sister's mood for not having ramen.
"What! You didn't bring ramen?" His sister suddenly got sad, sniffled, and moved her hand to wipe her tears.
"I'll bring ramen right away, Nee, so don't cry, please!" Ryou was panicking more than when he first saw Sora.
His sister then mischievously stuck out her tongue and said, “Silly Ryou-chan, how could you have brought a hot boiling ramen here, ahahaha, you are still my silly little brother even if you are rich and capable.” She laughed again.
“Don't prank on him too much, Remi. Look at his face; he has a face like he saw a ghost now,” Miyako from the side interjected, pushing playfully, but there was a smile at the corner of her lips.
The room filled with a mix of laughter and warmth, a moment of lightheartedness that became a cherished respite in the midst of their shared trials.
“Anyway, Ryou-kun, now that you have gotten money, don't spend it excessively. Those snacks alone must have cost 5k yen. Spend it on things that would improve your gaming related work, what they call equipment and whatnot from the game. Also, don't overplay the game, even if it helps in getting money. You need to get proper real sleep, and also, you need to do some exercise. They say that would help in controlling body something skill, and also school is…”
Amidst the nonstop monologue, a loud gurgling sound echoed from Remi's stomach. Remi, who produced that sound, unabashedly smiled, “I am hungry, Mom. Let's eat,” She looked at Ryou and said, “Feed me the rainbow, Ryou-chan.”
Despite Remi having the ability to eat on her own, she insisted on being fed by Ryou, citing her sickness. Ryou willingly complied, responding, "Okay, Nee-san."
Ryou placed the plastic filled with food on the bed and unveil the seven-colored rainbow dangos. Each delicate bite became a gesture of care as he fed them to his sister. Meanwhile, Miyako, observing the scene, sighed and indulged in takoyaki.
As he nourished his sister and shared this simple meal together with his mother, he revelled in the familial joy he so deeply long for.
Ryou silently vowed, ‘I promise that this happiness will last for a very, very long time, Nee-san, Oka-san.’