Hacking the Game Didn't Go as Intended [Part One]

CHAPTER 109: The Triad of Mystique - Lady Ainsworth & the Divine

What exactly did they want from him? Were they just as involved in other people's lives, or was he just an anomaly in their plans? And more importantly, did they hold the key to unraveling the mystery of his existence?

Setting the thought aside, Daisuke glanced down to the 100,997 gold in his possession. Just a few weeks ago, such wealth would have been nothing but a distant dream. Yet now, he had generously gifted Reeza with over 60,000 gold, a substantial amount of mana crystals, and a magic bag valued at least over 45,000.

If his past self were to witness such a display of generosity now, he would surely be in for a shock. And if he learned that he could now afford to eat anything he desired, it would likely be enough to give him a heart attack. So why then, did the realization fail to excite his current self?

As memories of Dusthaven wove in and out of his mind, Daisuke gained a profound understanding. Just as he had forgiven Reeza, he realized the importance of extending forgiveness to Brek and the others. Moreover, he felt compelled to find a way to guide them back onto the right path.

Contemplating the tragedy that had befallen Reeza's family, Daisuke couldn't help but reflect on his own mother's passing and the fact that he hadn't managed to spend much time at her grave. He understood that he wouldn't be able to fully move on or enjoy his success until he sorted out his past.

"Then that's what I'll do," he declared aloud, pushing to his feet. "I'll return to Dusthaven to tie up loose ends before journeying to the capital to seek out a blacksmith."

Zephyr paused his assault on the bone to tilt his head curiously.

Daisuke smiled, leaning in to tousle the pup's head. "What'dya say, Zephyr—do you wanna tag along and visit my hometown with me?"

"Rawrwu!" the canine responded enthusiastically, spinning around in a circle.

"Atta boy!" Daisuke exclaimed. "Tomorrow, we'll head back into town to see what the guild wants. Then, we'll stock up on supplies before we hit the road."

"Arf!"

***

Daisuke chuckled as Zephyr struggled to lick the last bit of barbecue sauce from his nose. "Can't say I didn't deliver on my promise," he murmured playfully, pushing open the double doors of the Adventurers' Guild.

"Ruff~"

Inside, Daisuke's gaze quickly settled on a familiar figure. Amidst the adventurers, the man stood tall and proud, his posture exuding dignity as he regarded everyone over his nose. The perpetual scowl on his face suggested he considered everyone beneath him, and he didn't even try to hide it.

As Daisuke approached the counter, the man's patronizing gaze fell upon him. Its intensity reminded him of the man he had seen on the rickshaw taxi while he was on his way to the apothecary. The concealing cloak and the expensive armor and weapon that gleamed within confirmed it was the exact same person.

A noble? What business could he possibly have at the guild? Surely, they have enough soldiers to deal with a few monsters on their own.

Ignoring the man's murderous gaze, Daisuke stepped into the line at the counter, patiently waiting his turn to speak with Thalia.

"Haxks!" she exclaimed, her excitement overshadowed by more pressing matters. "Why didn't you respond to the summons you received yesterday? This is really important!"

Daisuke frowned, evidently annoyed. "The last time I checked—"

Before he could deliver his snappy retort, the clerk seized his hand, exchanged a nod with her replacement, and briskly began leading Daisuke up a flight of stairs behind the counter.