The boats approached the island of Yaris, and the Droppers were met with an awe-inspiring sight. Rising from the waters, the city stood as a testament to resilience and beauty, its architecture reminiscent of ancient Greece with towering columns, majestic temples, and intricate statues. Despite the ruins and chaos they had left behind, Yaris appeared as a beacon of hope and civilization.

Ryn steered the lead boat toward a dock that jutted out into the clear, turquoise waters. The coastline was lush with greenery, and the air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the salty tang of the sea. As the boats came to a stop, the Droppers disembarked, their feet touching solid ground for the first time in hours.

"Welcome to Yaris," Elara said with a smile. "It’s more beautiful than I imagined."

Ryn nodded, taking in the scene before her. The city was built in concentric rings, each level distinct in its purpose and design. The first ring, nearest to the water, was dominated by farmlands and the outskirts of the city. Fields of crops stretched out, filled with orchards and vineyards. Farmers worked diligently, their figures moving rhythmically among the rows of plants.

"This must be where they produce their food," Jax observed, pointing to the neatly organized plots of land. "It's impressive."

The group moved forward, ascending a gently sloping pathway that led them to the second ring. Here, the atmosphere shifted from the tranquility of the farmlands to the disciplined order of the Yarian Military. Soldiers in gleaming armor patrolled the area, their movements precise and coordinated. Barracks and training grounds were scattered throughout, with the sound of drills and commands echoing in the air.

"We should introduce ourselves to the military leaders," Ryn suggested. "They need to know we're here and why."

Elara agreed, adding, "And they might have useful information about Abos."

After a brief introduction to a stern-faced commander, who seemed both cautious and curious about the newcomers, the group continued their journey deeper into the city. They climbed a series of wide stone steps, arriving at the third ring.

This level was bustling with activity. Shops lined the streets, their vibrant awnings and displays inviting passersby to browse an array of goods—fresh produce, crafted wares, and intricate textiles. Residents moved about, engaged in the everyday tasks of life. The homes here were elegant yet practical, with vines climbing their walls and flowers blooming in every available space.

"It's like stepping back in time," Kyle remarked, marveling at the detailed architecture.

Ryn felt a sense of peace settle inside her. "It's hard to believe a place like this exists in all the chaos."

Finally, they reached the heart of Yaris—the fourth ring. This central area was dominated by the Yarian Council building, a grand structure with towering columns.. The council building sat atop a hill, overlooking the entire city. Its presence was commanding, yet it exuded a sense of wisdom and guidance.

The group paused at the base of the steps leading to the building. "This is where we'll find the leaders of Yaris," Elara said.

Ryn took a breath and nodded slightly. "Let's go."

They ascended the steps, their shoes echoing on the stone. As they reached the top, the grand doors of the council building opened, and they were greeted by a group of council members dressed in flowing robes, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern.

"Welcome to Yaris," said a woman with silver hair and piercing blue eyes, her voice carrying the weight of authority. "I am Lysandra, head of the Yarian Council. We have much to discuss, it seems."

Ryn stepped forward, her gaze steady. "We are Droppers from Atlas One. We seek refuge and are here to help protect your city from the Wastes."

Lysandra nodded, her eyes flickering with recognition. "We have heard of your plight. Come inside, and we will talk."

They followed Lysandra into the council chamber, Ryn took one last look at the city spread out below them. Yaris was a place of beauty and order. Here, in this ancient feeling city, she felt the stirrings of hope. They had found sanctuary, but the challenge was just beginning.

Inside the council chamber, discussions would shape their next steps. The journey to Yaris had been treacherous, but it had also brought them to a place where they could begin to rebuild and fight back against the darkness that threatened Abos.

Ryn turned to Elara, her curiosity piqued by the bustling activity around them. "Elara, are all these people NPCs? They seem so... alive."

Elara shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "No, Ryn. GameBox Studios wanted The Silent Moon to be more immersive than any game before it. Every person you see here is an actual player. It’s one of the reasons this game feels so real."

Ryn was taken aback. "So, the farmers, the soldiers, even the council members... they're all players?"

Elara nodded. "Exactly. Each player has a role, and together, they create a living, breathing world."

Ryn absorbed the information, her appreciation for the game's depth growing.

The group followed Lysandra through the grand hallways of the building, their footsteps echoing against the marble floors. The interior was just as impressive as the exterior, with high ceilings adorned with intricate frescoes and large windows that let in streams of natural light.

Lysandra led them to a set of heavy wooden doors, which swung open to reveal a spacious chamber dominated by a large oval table. Above the table floated a detailed holographic map of Abos, its landscape marked with various points of interest and areas of concern.

"Please, have a seat," Lysandra gestured to the chairs around the table. As they settled in, she continued, "This is where we plan our operations and make decisions for the future of Yaris."

Ryn, Elara, Jax, and Kyle took their seats, their eyes drawn to the holographic map. The projection was incredibly detailed, showing everything from the terrain and settlements to the locations of known Wastes.

"This is incredible," Jax murmured, leaning closer to study the map. "I've never seen such a detailed representation."

Lysandra took her place at the head of the table, her expression serious. "We have much to discuss. As you know, the threat of the Wastes is ever-present. We have managed to keep Yaris safe so far, but our resources are stretched thin."

Elara spoke up, "We encountered significant resistance on our way here. The Wastes are well organized, and aggressive."

Lysandra nodded. "Yes, we have noticed the same. Their attacks are becoming more coordinated, and their numbers seem to be growing. We believe there may be a central force driving them, but we have yet to identify it."

Ryn looked at the holographic map, her mind racing. "We need to establish a strong foothold here in Yaris and find a way to protect the remaining Droppers back at camp. But first, we need to understand more about the Wastes and what’s driving them."

Kyle chimed in, "We also need to secure more resources—food, weapons, and medical supplies. Our group barely made it here, and we need to be prepared for anything."

Lysandra agreed. "Our top priority is to ensure the safety of all players in Yaris. We have a network of scouts and informants who can provide us with valuable intelligence. You can use this information to plan your next moves."

Lysandra activated a few controls on the table, and the holographic map zoomed in on specific areas of interest. "We have identified several potential locations for resource gathering and outpost establishment. These include old military installations, abandoned settlements, and natural resource deposits. However, each location is likely to be heavily guarded by Wastes."

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The group studied the highlighted areas on the map, their minds already formulating plans and strategies. The challenges ahead looked daunting, but with the combined efforts of the Yarian Council and the new arrivals, there was somewhat hope.

"We’ll need to divide our efforts," Ryn said, her voice firm. "Some of us can focus on securing resources while others work on fortifying Yaris and planning the rescue of the remaining Droppers."

Jax nodded. "I can lead a team to scout and secure the resource locations. We’ll gather what we can and set up supply lines."

Elara added, "I’ll work on fortifying our defenses here in Yaris and coordinating with the scouts and informants to gather as much intel as possible."

Lysandra looked around the table, "We stand together in this fight. Yaris is more than a city; it is a symbol of hope.”

As the meeting progressed, voices filled the room with strategies and plans. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency. Just as Lysandra was about to conclude the meeting, an older man seated near the end of the table cleared his throat loudly, drawing all eyes to him. He had a grizzled look about him, with a stern face lined by years of experience and hardship.

Lysandra turned towards him, her expression respectful but cautious. "Galen, you have something to add?"

Galen's eyes swept over the Droppers, his gaze hard and skeptical. "I've been in this game since the alpha build," he began, his voice rough with age and fatigue. "I've seen three waves of Droppers come and go. Each one filled with promises of saving Abos, and each one failing miserably."

Ryn felt a surge of defiance rise within her but held her tongue, listening intently.

"Every time a new group of you Droppers arrives," Galen continued, "there's talk of grand plans and strategies. But you don't understand this world like we do. You come with your advanced tech and high hopes, but you underestimate the Wastes and overestimate your own abilities. Most of you end up dead, leaving the rest of us to clean up the mess."

Kyle frowned, ready to retort, but Elara placed a calming hand on his arm. Ryn, however, couldn't stay silent. "We're not just any group of Droppers, Galen. We've already faced significant challenges and come out stronger. We're not here to make empty promises. We’re here to fight and to win."

Galen huffed, crossing his arms. "I've heard that before. But words are easy. Action is what counts, and I've yet to see any real results."

Jax leaned forward. "We know the risks. We've already lost friends and allies. But we’re not backing down."

Lysandra interjected, her tone firm but diplomatic. "Galen, your concerns are valid. The Droppers have a difficult mission, but we must give them a chance. We need every able-bodied player to contribute if we’re to stand any chance against the Wastes."

Galen shook his head, still unconvinced. "Fine. But don't expect me to be optimistic. I've seen too many failures to believe in another wave of Droppers."

Ryn met his gaze steadily. "Then don’t believe in us. Just watch us. We'll show you through our actions that we’re different."

Galen's eyes narrowed, but he didn’t argue further. Instead, he leaned back in his chair, arms still crossed, clearly not entirely convinced but willing to give them the benefit of the doubt, if only reluctantly.

Lysandra took a deep breath, her gaze moving between Ryn and Galen. "The challenges ahead are great, but I believe that by working together, we can overcome them. This meeting is adjourned. Prepare yourselves; we have much work to do."

As everyone began to rise, Ryn felt frustration. Galen’s skepticism was a harsh reminder of the challenges they faced—not just from the Wastes, but from the doubts within their own ranks.

Elara placed a reassuring hand on Ryn’s shoulder. "Don’t let him get to you. We’ll prove him wrong."

Ryn nodded, "We have to. For everyone’s sake."

The meeting had given them direction, but now it was time to act. Ryn knew that the real work was just beginning, and she was ready to face whatever came next..

As the group began to disperse from the council chambers, Ryn felt a persistent tug of uncertainty. She glanced at Elara, who was walking beside her, and decided now was the time to ask the question that had been gnawing at her mind.

"Elara, wait a second," Ryn said, gently grabbing her friend's arm.

Elara paused, turning to face her with a curious expression. "What is it, Ryn?"

Ryn took a deep breath, trying to formulate her thoughts. "I need to know... what exactly is our main goal here? What are we really supposed to be doing?"

Elara's eyes softened with understanding. She took a moment to gather her thoughts before replying. "As Droppers, our primary objective is clear: kill Wastes, find the source of the Corruption, and save Abos. That’s what GameBox Studios designed us for. We’re the Assault Teams, sent to tackle the biggest threats head-on."

Ryn nodded slowly, absorbing the information. "But what about everyone else? The people living here in Yaris?"

Elara gestured to the bustling city around them, the players moving about their daily lives. "The beauty of this world is that any player, whether they're a Dropper or not, can carve out their own path. They can create their own story. Just like the people living here in Yaris. Some choose to be farmers, merchants, soldiers, or even council members. They have the freedom to pursue their own goals and dreams."

Ryn looked around, taking in the vibrant life of the city. "So, we’re part of something bigger. We have our mission, but we’re also part of this world."

Elara smiled, nodding. "Exactly. We're here to fulfill our mission, but we're also here to support and protect these players, to contribute to the community. Our actions have a ripple effect. Every Waste we kill, every bit of Corruption we clear, it makes the world safer for everyone. But at the same time, we’re living our own stories, just like them."

Ryn felt a little bit better. "Then let’s make our story one worth telling. We’ll complete our mission, but we’ll also make sure to help and protect as many people as we can along the way."

Elara’s smile widened. "That’s the spirit.."

Ryn and Elara rejoined their friends. They had their mission, but they also had a deeper understanding of their place in the world of Abos. They weren’t just Droppers sent to fight and die; they were part of a living, breathing community, and their actions would shape the future of everyone around them.

With the rest of the Droppers safely transported to Yaris, Ryn finally allows herself a moment of peace. The sun is just starting to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the ancient architecture of the city. She makes her way to the Inn, a quaint yet elegant building nestled in the heart of the third ring of Yaris, where shops and homes are intertwined in a bustling yet harmonious community.

The Innkeeper, a friendly woman named Eleanora, welcomes Ryn and hands her a brass key engraved with the number 7. “Your room is upstairs, first door on the left,” Eleanora says with a warm smile.

Ryn climbs the polished wooden staircase, her boots making soft thuds against the steps. She finds her room and unlocks the door, stepping into a cozy space. The room is small but well-appointed, with a plush bed, a small wardrobe, and a desk situated by a window that offers a view of the city streets below. The walls are adorned with tapestries depicting scenes of Yaris’ history, adding to the room's charm.

Ryn sits at the desk, her fingers tracing the intricate carvings along its edge. She takes a deep breath, savoring the moment of calm before tapping her watch. The familiar hum of the device greets her as a holographic sphere hovers above it, displaying her inventory.

She scrolls through her items, the holographic interface illuminating her face with a soft blue light. Her inventory is a mix of essentials and rarities she has collected. Health packs, energy boosters, and various crafting materials are neatly organized in her inventory slots. Her eyes linger on the recently acquired nano-sword skill and a grin spreads across her face, a feeling of a well earned victory. She had always been the one to take charge, even before the days of Virtualization into game worlds.

“Level 4,” she murmurs to herself, noting her progress. The fight with Gigis had been grueling, but the rewards were worth it. She now had an extra one thousand XP, and the new skill would undoubtedly be useful in future battles if she even remembered to use it.

She continues to scroll, her finger stopping on the outfit she unlocked. The hologram projects a 3D image of it—a sleek, form-fitting ensemble made of a durable yet flexible material, perfect for both combat and stealth missions. She mentally notes to try it on later.

As she inspects her inventory, her mind drifts to the day’s events. The chaos of the drop, the brutal fight against two bosses, and the tense meeting with the Council—all of it had taken a toll on her. Yet, here she was, alive while so many others devirtualized and had to start over.

A knock on the door pulls her from her thoughts. She opens it to find Elara standing there, her face illuminated by the warm glow of the hallway lights.

“Hey,” Elara says softly. “Mind if I come in?”

Ryn steps aside, allowing Elara to enter. “Of course. I was just going through my inventory.”

Elara nods, her eyes glancing at the holographic sphere still hovering above Ryn’s watch. “We’ve come a long way in a short time, haven’t we?”

“We have,” Ryn agrees, turning to face Elara. “And there’s still an even longer way to go.”

Elara sits on the edge of the bed, her expression serious. “The Council is expecting a lot from us. We need to be prepared for whatever comes next.”

Ryn sits beside her, feeling the weight of their responsibilities settle on her shoulders. “We will be. We have to be.”

For a moment, they sit in silence, the only sound being the distant murmur of the city outside.

“We should get some rest,” Elara finally says, standing up. “Tomorrow’s another day, and we need to be ready.”

Ryn nods, watching as Elara leaves the room. She locks the door behind her and returns to the desk, extinguishing the holographic sphere with a swipe of her hand. The city of Yaris, with all its beauty and mystery, awaited them. But for now, she enjoyed the quiet moment, knowing that the battles of tomorrow would come soon enough.