Chapter Thirty: Midnight Meeting

  Jace rolled out of bed the next day, relishing the rare pleasure of waking up without any debuffs. The dining hall was buzzing with energy, a vibrant symphony of student chatter and laughter. Most people clustered with their Societies, but as the sole member of the Society of Hades, Jace didn’t have an assigned table.

  He piled his plate with some mystery meat, steaming vegetables, and fresh-baked bread before claiming a small table tucked away in the corner. As he started to eat, Dex, Ell, Alice, and their gnome friend, Thistle, sauntered in, trays laden with food. Dex’s Hermes robes flowed like liquid, Ell’s Athena robes shimmered subtly, Alice’s Harpocrates robes balanced elegance and practicality, and Thistle’s Ares robes were a rugged black.

  Thistle pulled a high chair out of his inventory and plopped down, his look daring anyone to comment. Jace raised an eyebrow but kept his thoughts to himself. He knew Thistle was probably teased enough and understood what it felt like to be the butt of a joke.

  “Rebel without a table,” Dex quipped.

  “Aren’t you guys gonna get in trouble for slumming it with me instead of your Societies?” Jace asked.

  Alice snorted. “This isn’t high school, Jace. We sit where we want.”

  They settled in, diving into their meals. The first bites hit their tongues like a bland ambush.

  “What’s up with this food?” Jace grimaced, pushing his plate away.

  Thistle sighed, his fork clattering on his now-empty plate. “Just choke it down. The debuffs for skipping meals are brutal. Rumor has it that Terra Mythica’s got this weird thing about toning down sensations to keep us from avoiding fights because of combat pain. Supposedly, the higher your perception though, the more intense the sensations.”

  “Even those with high perception say the food at the University barely has any flavor,” Alice added.

  The group shared a collective sigh, pecking at their lunches with newfound resignation.

  “So, Jace, how’d your Class Title quest go?” Ell asked.

  “I survived-ish,” Jace said, keeping his tone nonchalant.

  “Mine was pretty standard,” she said, “Temple of Athena, met the Society President, tried out a few skills, and boom, first Title: Tactician. Fighter with a strategy twist.”

  Dex leaned in, eyes sparkling. “Rogue. First title. Called it.”

  Jace smirked. “No surprise there.”

  He turned to Thistle, who was contemplatively chewing on a piece of bread. “And you, Thistle?”

  “Got my Class Title last year,” Thistle replied with a shrug. “Fighter.”

  Dex raised an eyebrow. “A gnome fighter?”

  “Tank focused,” Thistle said nonchalantly.

  Ell shifted her gaze to Alice, engrossed in a book. “What about you, Alice?”

  “We just going to let Thistle’s tank class go by without comment?” Dex asked, eyes wide.

  The others shrugged.

  Alice answered Ell without looking up. “Arcanist. Ancient magics and all that jazz.”

  “And you, Jace?” Ell’s tone was casual.

  “Cleric,” Jace replied, leaning back in his chair with a half-smile.

  “Guess you’ll be the one who’ll be patching us up when things go south,” Ell said.

  “Interesting. A common title, like mine,” Dex mused, rubbing his chin like a faux philosopher. “I thought you’d be something more dramatic, like Dark Destroyer or Fang Knight.”

  Alice rolled her eyes. “A base class is a good starting point. The bonuses are well-documented, which can’t be said for the rare and unique ones. The obvious effects are on our character sheets, but there are hidden stats too. Titles can even mess with those.”

  Dex and Ell shared a knowing look. “It’s actually kind of freaky how little we know about the System and Terra Mythica,” Dex whispered, leaning in like he was about to spill government secrets. “Everything we know, we had to figure out in-game and pass along. There’s so much unexplored.

  And John Rearden, the creator? Total enigma. Went from zero to billionaire, buying up everything. I mean, props to the guy—he’s a legend. But no one’s seen him in years.”

  “Legend? More like a power-hungry megalomaniac. Too much power for one man, if you ask me,” Ell scoffed.

  Dex leaned forward, eyes narrowing. “Come on, at least he’s trying.”

  “Trying? The guy’s a corporate vulture,” Ell shot back. “First chance he got, he swooped in on the failing economy and bought up everything.”

  “Yeah, to try and improve it,” Dex countered.

  “Fat lot of good that did. Buy up everything, build some farms, then vanish? Real philanthropist.”

  Silence fell, thick with old arguments and unspoken tension. Jace and Thistle shifted uncomfortably while Alice focused on her book. The debate over Rearden was as familiar to them as breathing.

  Jace couldn’t tell if Terra Mythica was a blessing or a curse. What he did know was that it had become the lifeline in a world plagued by shortages and despair. The massive time dilation offered a strange kind of relief, a respite from the endless struggle to survive. Inside Mythica, the near-coma state meant people could stretch their food supplies further. For those with a Stasis Chamber, it meant surviving years in a world otherwise teetering on the brink.

  For now, Jace decided to leave the question of right and wrong, and who should wield the power, to others.

  “Maybe he’s just living in Terra Mythica, enjoying his creation,” Alice suggested, shrugging.

  Ell frowned, her eyebrows knitting together. “Maybe. But it’s weird. That’s all I’m saying. He made it fully immersive, unlike anything else. The old VR tech can’t even touch Terra Mythica. The data needed to run a small town in-game is probably more than anything we’ve ever seen.”

  “And the tech is still super top secret,” Dex added, finding some common ground with Ell. “No one’s cracked it or hacked the Device. You just put it on and bam, you’re in the Myth. No ports, no charging—it’s like magic.”

  “The security is insane. Locked to the first user with a DNA scan. The System AI is integrated into the very nerve fibers of the world,” Ell said, leaning in. “Remember the political debates about it on the holos when we were kids? Access to Terra Mythica and your Device is a Protected Human Right. The government can’t take it away unless you’re a felon. And even then, there are activists trying to repeal that.”

  Jace wasn’t one for conspiracy theories, but he couldn’t deny there were a lot of strange things about the whole situation.

  Dex nodded. “If someone steals a VR kit, it’s even worse. They face life imprisonment at best. And buying headsets from Excelsior doesn’t guarantee compatibility. Some people just can’t connect, no matter what.”

  Jace’s stomach didn’t feel well.

  Ell laughed. “We’re basically guinea pigs with swords and magic. Could be worse.”

  Jace shook his head, his mouth suddenly dry. “I knew the consequences of theft were bad, but not that bad.”

  Alice reached out, giving his arm a reassuring squeeze. “Don’t look so worried, Jace. The good news is, once you’re invited and prove compatible, you’re in for life.”

  That was the problem. Jace wasn’t invited. Alex was.

  “Unless you piss off the System,” Dex quipped with a smirk.

  Alice rolled her eyes. “Those are just rumors. No one has any firm evidence of anyone being booted or banned, no matter how terrible they are. The game expects other Travelers to handle it.”

  Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

  “But why is it such a big deal? Why so many laws?” Jace asked.

  Alice sighed, glancing around as if to ensure no one else was listening. “I have no idea. But I do know Excelsior Tech has its hands in everything now. They own parts of almost every major company in the world.”

  Ell spoke next. “My parents work for Excelsior. Even they don’t know anything that’s not public knowledge. Other than the fact that it’s all very hush-hush. They don’t even know where the Devices are made.”

  “Alice, how did you get your kit?” Jace asked.

  Alice smiled, though it didn’t reach her eyes. “Lottery.”

  There was a long, heavy pause while they all chewed their tasteless food.

  “Hey, you guys unlocked your first affinities yet? I know Ell did back in Affinities class,” Dex said, trying to smoothly change the topic. He winced theatrically and shifted in his seat. “Little demons. I’m still sore in places I can’t mention in polite company.”

  Each nodded, sharing knowing glances.

  “Well, spill the beans. What did you all get?” Ell prompted, curiosity sparking in her eyes.

  Before Jace could answer, Dex jumped in, his eyes alight like a kid on Christmas morning. “Actually, hold that thought. I’ve got a better idea.” He grinned, mischief dancing in his expression. “Yes… a much better idea. I need to prepare some things, but meet me tonight after classes. At the Fountain of Aphrodite.”

  Ell raised an eyebrow, suspicion and amusement mixing on her face. “Dex, I know that look. You’re about to do something really stupid, aren’t you?”

  Dex’s grin widened. “No, Ell, we’re about to do something really stupid. Just meet me at midnight.” With that, he took off.

  Ell and Thistle exchanged quick goodbyes with Alice and Jace before heading to their next classes.

  A notification blinked in Jace’s vision. It was his [Hades’ Little Helper] quest. He selected it, and nothing seemed to change. “Yeah, yeah. I’ll get to you,” he muttered, swiping it away.

  He opened his map and saw a marker in an area he’d never been to before—Zone Three. Way out of his rank.

  “What’s up, Jace?” Alice asked, noticing his furrowed brow.

  “It’s this quest I have from Hades. It’s in Zone Three.”

  Alice’s eyes lit up. “You need a Ward Stone. Like Demi used on the way up the mountain. It’s the only way to get around in higher-tier Zones. Unless you have a high-rank party.”

  “How do I get one of those?” Jace asked, intrigued but clueless.

  Alice grinned, her excitement palpable. “Actually, it’s pretty simple. I’ll show you. I’ve been studying them for a quest from my deity. But it’ll take a few days—they require some time to craft properly.”

  “You’d do that?” he asked, surprised.

  “Of course, we’re all in this together. Plus, it helps me rank up my skill. But you’ll have to cover the ingredients. No free rides, even in Mythica.”

  She stood up and put her book away, brushing off her robes. “Come on, Jace. Now’s as good a time as any to get your Ward Stone started.”

  Alice led Jace through the winding paths of Mount Olympus University, navigating the sprawling campus until they reached the heart of the crafting district - Hephaestus Foundry. This area was a bustling maze of workshops, each one alive with activity. Sparks flew from anvils as red-hot metal was pounded into shape, cauldrons bubbled with mysterious concoctions, and the heady scent of exotic herbs and minerals filled the air.

  The buildings themselves were striking. Marble columns supported glass domes that glittered in the sunlight, creating an almost surreal contrast. Artisans of all kinds labored diligently, producing everything from intricate jewelry to massive, enchanted weapons.

  Alice guided Jace to a small, nondescript workshop tucked between two grander buildings.

  “Here we are,” Alice said, nudging the door open with a creaky protest from the hinges. The inside was a treasure trove of magical components. Shelves lined the walls, crammed with glowing crystals, ancient tomes, and jars of rare ingredients. A large workbench dominated the center of the room, cluttered with tools and half-finished projects.

  “This place is the real deal,” she said. “You can find anything here, if you know what you’re looking for.”

  Jace glanced around, taking in the organized chaos.

  “And the best part? Everything here has a story. See that jar of dragon’s blood? Rumor has it the dragon it came from is still looking for it.”

  Alice’s smile widened, her eyes gleaming with the joy of sharing a piece of her world. “This is where we’ll make your protection crystal. First, we need to gather the right materials. Follow me.”

  She led him to a set of shelves, picking out various items: a sliver of amethyst, a vial of phoenix tears, and a sprig of nightshade.

  “Got it. Now what?” Jace asked, eyebrow raised.

  “Now, we combine them,” Alice said, her excitement barely contained. She placed the materials on the workbench, hands moving like a maestro’s, weaving intricate patterns in the air as she chanted softly. The items began to glow, their energies merging into a single, brilliant light.

  Jace watched, mouth slightly agape, as the light coalesced into a small, shimmering purple crystal.

  “And now, we wait two nights. It has to bathe under the moon. Lucky for us, we’ve got a perfect one for the next few nights.”

  Alice picked up the crystal and headed up a spiraling staircase to a roofless platform. There, dozens of different crystals lay in gleaming materials, each presumably needing moon or sunlight. She gingerly placed theirs in a holder and wrote a tag with Jace’s name on it, tearing the tag in half and handing one piece to him.

  “Bring this in two days, and they’ll let you pick it up.”

  Alice carefully held out the crystal to him. “Once it’s done cooking, this will let you enter Zone Three safely. But it won’t fend off higher-level monsters in Zone Four. We’ll need better crafting and materials for that.”

  Jace smirked. “Thanks, Alice. You’re a real lifesaver.”

  Alice grinned back.

  Jace checked out his notifications.

  Crafting Process Initiated:

  ? Objective: Create a Ward Stone

  ? Materials Required:

  o Sliver of Amethyst

  o Vial of Phoenix Tears

  o Sprig of Nightshade

  Skill Gained: Artificer, Novice Rank

  ? Description: You have learned the basics of crafting magical items.

  ? Benefits:

  o Improved efficiency in preparing materials.

  o Better success rate in crafting basic magical items.

  o Access to novice-level crafting recipes.

  The rest of the day blurred into a routine of lectures and training. Basic classes like Rune Etching, Combat Strategy, Alchemy, and Mythical History consumed their hours, each session a whirlwind of information and practice. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the students trickled out of their classrooms, the anticipation of the evening’s meeting growing with each step.

  Night enveloped the campus, casting a serene, shadowy blanket over everything. They converged at the Statue of Aphrodite, their faces softly illuminated by the silvery moonlight. The moon hung high, casting an ethereal glow over the statue, highlighting the delicate features and flowing robes of the goddess. Shadows danced around them, adding a mysterious ambiance to the scene. An eerie quiet settled in, broken only by their hushed whispers. The fountain lay still, the water shut off, leaving Aphrodite standing in a mirror-like pool, her reflection shimmering softly under the moon’s watchful eye.

  A voice sliced through the quiet, nearly causing their hearts to leap from their chests.

  “What’s the midnight rendezvous for?” Dex’s voice was casual, almost too casual, as he stepped from the shadows.

  “Furies, Dex!” Alice exclaimed, clutching her chest. “You trying to give us heart attacks?”

  Dex grinned, a wicked gleam in his eyes. He waggled his eyebrows mischievously. “Now, are we gonna stand around here all night, or are you coming with me?”

  Ell narrowed her eyes. “Lead the way, oh great master of surprises.”

  With a mock bow and a flourish, Dex turned and strode off into the night, Alice, Jace, Ell, and Thistle trailing behind him.

  Dex was practically skipping with excitement.

  “Where are we going?” Alice asked, struggling to keep up.

  Dex turned, his grin practically Cheshire Cat-like. “Shhh, trust me. You’re gonna love it.”

  Ell rolled her eyes. “This better not be like the last time you had an idea, Dex.”

  Dex shot her a wink. “Oh, ye of little faith. This is gonna be epic.”

  As they crossed the courtyard, they ran into Marcus and his cronies. Marcus, with his ever-present sneer and swagger, flanked by his usual entourage. But Jace’s eyes were drawn to the pale boy walking beside Marcus. The boy’s eyes locked onto Jace’s with an intense, unblinking stare that sent a shiver down his spine.

  “Hey, look who it is,” Marcus called out, his voice dripping with disdain. “The lone wolf of the Society of Hades. How’s life in the dark, Jace?”

  Jace didn’t bother to respond, but he couldn’t tear his eyes away from the pale boy. There was something off about him, something deeply unsettling.

  “Cat got your tongue?” Marcus taunted, his cronies snickering. The pale boy remained silent, his gaze never wavering.

  The pale boy’s eyes felt as if they bore into Jace’s soul, and for a moment, Jace thought he saw something flicker behind them—something dark and sinister.

  Dex stepped in, smirking. “Marcus, what are you doing out so late? Shouldn’t you be in front of your bathroom mirror, practicing that sneer?”

  Marcus’s smirk faltered. “Mind your own business, Bishop.”

  Dex almost lunged at him, but Ell’s gentle hand on his shoulder stopped him.

  Ell chimed in, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “Having daddy problems again, Marky? Wanna bring the real world into this? Honestly, if you spent as much time studying as you do sneering, you might actually pass a class.”

  Marcus’s cronies snickered, but this time at his expense. Marcus glared at them until they fell silent.

  “We’ll see who’s laughing,” Marcus growled, turning on his heel. His pale companion lingered, his unsettling gaze fixed on Jace before following Marcus.

  As they walked away, Dex clapped Jace on the back. “Well, that was fun. Now, about that idea…”

  “What’s the deal with you two, anyway? There’s definitely a backstory there,” Jace said, raising an eyebrow.

  “Long story,” Dex forced a smile. “Now, if you’ll just follow me…”

  Jace stopped and pulled Dex to the side. “Is that your name? Bishop?” he whispered.

  Dex cringed. “Yeah.”

  “Wait, wait, wait,” Jace stammered. “Your dad’s Terry Bishop? As in, Mr. Stasis Pod?”

  “Yeah,” Dex shrugged.

  “That would make you…”

  “Listen, I prefer to leave that outside.”

  Jace’s mind did a triple axel. Terry Bishop, the mastermind behind the Stasis Pod—the tech that lets people live full-time in Terra Mythica—was Dex’s father? The same tech hospitals around the world used. The same tech keeping Alex alive.

  “But, it’s…”

  “Please,” Dex said, something in his eyes telling Jace this was important. Jace nodded and left it at that.

  With a final glance back, they continued on their path with Dex in the lead.

  “That guy’s creepy,” Jace said, changing gears. “Keeps giving me this death glare.”

  “Marcus? Yeah, he’s a monster. Probably pulls the wings off ladybugs,” Dex replied.

  “No, I mean one of his goons. The thin one, really gives me the creeps.”

  “Which one?” Ell asked.

  “You know, the really thin, pale guy.”

  They all shrugged. “I try not to pay attention to his goons of the week,” Dex said before urging them forward. “Come on. We don’t have all night.”

  As they rounded the corner, Jace glanced back to see Marcus and his “friends” had vanished into the shadows. Turning his attention forward, Jace finally saw where Dex had been leading them, and it did not disappoint.