Chapter 23: Unseen Path
"Guild Leader, this Featherlight is just spouting nonsense. First he says it can’t be cleared in two days, then he claims it won’t be cleared in one. I don’t understand why we’re still paying this guy."
A player from the Sky Dragon Family, who had witnessed the earlier exchange, grumbled with clear indignation. Several others around him nodded, echoing the same frustration.
"You lot really need to learn to use your heads."
Sky Dragon Roar shook his head helplessly, as though addressing a room full of children.
"According to Iris, Featherlight is desperately short on cash. Whether it’s charging her two hundred bucks just for consultation or selling his guides on the forums, it all points to a certain level of hardship. Someone this strapped for money wouldn’t be part of any major guild or professional team. Otherwise, he’d never dare to sell information this openly. He must be navigating the game solo."
He paused, scanning their doubtful expressions, then continued with calm conviction.
"You’ve all seen the Guardian’s strength in those videos. That isn’t the sort of enemy a single player can take down—yet he did, entirely alone. And after that, he entered Blood Hollow at level four and, with unbelievable speed, defeated the boss to earn the second Glorious Achievement."
Sky Dragon Roar’s voice lowered, as if sharing a secret.
"Think about it. How did he even know the strategy for this dungeon? How did he manage to clear it solo at level four when you lot can’t even handle the first wave of trash mobs? He undoubtedly has knowledge we don’t. But there’s no reason to strong-arm him. As long as we keep offering incentives and showing goodwill, it’s impossible he won’t reciprocate when we need it."
He gestured for emphasis.
"From the fact that he charged Iris five hundred and still gave her extra gear and several rare pouches, you can tell he’s not the type to burn bridges. Just give him a little benefit, and he’ll surely return the favor."