[Floor 4 is now unlocked.]
This was the first time he wasn't present to defeat the floor's guardian. The squad combination comprising Clare, Byron, Filu, Albert and Kaasil managed to achieve it, though not without significant effort, resulting in several team members' injuries, as indicated by his notifications.
In contrast to the simplicity of the last floor's guardian, this guardian was a corrupted treant the cultists had empowered in the heart of the Gloomshroud forest. Thanks to completing the bonus directive of Directive 3-5, Zark'thul had been able to glimpse the stats of the floor guardian beforehand—a Summoner type that spawned wave after wave of fungal minions.
Having his Artillery-role agents focus their ranged attacks on the guardian was critical to the squad's victory. After analyzing the footage from the floor guardian battle and reviewing their performance, Zark'thul couldn't think of a different strategy they could have employed to defeat the guardian without any casualties.
His agents had done well, and now Floor 4 was unlocked.
With a thought, he navigated his console to the available Floor 4 Directives. The screen presented four options:
[Directives for Floor 4]
[Directive 4-1] Disrupt Cult Recruitment Efforts
[Objective] Investigate and disrupt the cult's recruitment efforts in the city of Briburg. Identify and incapacitate key figures responsible for recruitment.
[Bonus] Capture key figures alive. If completed, this bonus will provide additional missions in the city.
[Directive 4-2] Broker Peace Between Rival Guilds
[Objective] Interact with the rival guilds, the Hand of Unity and the Rising Tide, to foster peace and collaboration. Determine the reasons behind their conflict and facilitate dialogue.
[Bonus] Resolve the conflict without favoring one side, ensuring a mutually agreed upon resolution by both guilds. If completed, this bonus will provide additional missions within the guilds and may potentially open up unique rewards.
[Directive 4-3] (Repeatable) Gather Alchemical Ingredients
[Objective] Using the attached map, gather required ingredients from various locations across the region. Some of these ingredients will only spawn when an Agent is present.
[Directive 4-4] (Repeatable) Patrol the Trade Route
[Objective] Using the attached map, travel along the trade route between Briburg and the nearest town. Engage any enemies encountered and defeat them. Ensure the safety of merchants, travelers, and caravans traversing this route.
[Directive 4-5] Quell the Stirring Evil in the Crypts
[Objective] A group of adventurers recently ventured into an ancient crypt and have not returned. Investigate the crypt, ascertain the adventurers' fate, and eliminate any threats within.
[Bonus] Return with a unique treasure (to be specified) from within the crypt.
Zark'thul drummed his fingers on his desk.
Out of the directives available, the third and fourth appeared to be low-priority tasks suitable for his Agents to handle independently. The first and second directives seemed like significant tasks, yet they provided vague information. Not much to go on, in that regard. As for the fifth, he couldn't make any judgment calls without further information.
At least some of the bonus objectives were displayed this time around.
Typically, Zark'thul would assign squads to tackle multiple directives at once, with himself assuming a leading role in the most crucial one. However, at the moment, his schedule was occupied.
Elspeth set a datapad down on his desk. "Here's your schedule for the day, sir. The logistics team is expecting your call to confirm the goods for this week's shipment. Also, there's a new list of candidates who applied to join the company this morning. The marketing team requested you review their latest report, and Alice Blankenship has something she wants to discuss with you."
Zark'thul's gaze landed on the report. "More staff?"
"Yes. With the fourth floor unlocked, I assumed we would be expanding operations again," Elspeth replied.
True. It was time to expand and establish a new department again, but he hadn't decided which one. With the addition of a marketing department, the question now was what to focus on: research and development or resource harvesting and processing?
Both departments required substantial capital investment, which wasn't an issue given their current financial situation. Nevertheless, he was looking for the optimal choice that would offer the highest return on investment.
Well, there was more than enough time to decide. For now, his priority was meeting Alice and addressing whatever was so important to her. This was the first time she had asked to speak to him directly, outside their routine meetings.
After finishing his paperwork and wrapping up some minor tasks, Zark'thul met with the logistics team. He quickly reviewed and approved the items for their next shipment. Based on the orders streaming in, there was a broad market interest in all the items they were offering. Sathonic Crystals were in high demand, but so were Siltstone Cores and Mirecrystal Eggs. The same was true for the alchemical reagents, where no singular item stood out. They were all being ordered in similar quantities.
By the time he concluded the logistics meeting, he received an update: Alice Blankenship had already arrived at his office. Before the meeting, he perused her new marketing report. It detailed the marketing campaigns' performance over the past two weeks, emphasizing the substantial increase in their revenue, the expansion of their client base, and the engagement they had achieved on social media.
While their profit margin was modest, it was also steadily rising, showing the effectiveness of their campaigns.
All in all, an excellent report.
Zark'thul arrived at his office and settled into his chair. Across from him sat Alice Blankenship, the marketing director he had hired three weeks ago. With her dark hair styled in a bun and her professional attire, she presented a competent image. They exchanged greetings, and Zark'thul got straight to the point, "I presume your campaigns are successful? Why do you wish to speak with me?"
She cleared her throat. "Sir, it's about the feedback we've been receiving on our social media platforms, as well as the calls the customer support team has been fielding."
"Feedback?" he questioned.
"Yes," she replied. "Our customers have been commenting and calling in, wanting to know more about the resources we're selling. Inquiring into the origins, the nature of the business, and things like that."
"Should I be concerned about this?" Zark'thul inquired, unsure where the conversation was leading.
"No, nothing serious, sir. But since the sale of these resources is one of our main sources of revenue, I was thinking it might be a good idea to expand our reach. Consider the option of opening a storefront where we can display some of our wares. The positive side of this is that it would allow us to market a range of products to potential customers in a more physical manner, and we would be able to highlight any unique aspects of your, er, merchandise."
"Continue."
"We would be able to reach a new customer base. Physical stores often attract different clientele than those found online, even if their offerings are similar. However, given the nature of what we're selling, we could also leverage the appeal of a physical store to attract high-end customers."
"High-end customers, you say? Do we have them?" he asked.
"We certainly do. From the orders we've received, about ten percent of our customers have been high-end clients. Many of them are big industry moguls and investors who have bought entire lots of our resources, usually for their industrial processes."
"I see," Zark'thul nodded. "So, you think a physical store is the next step?"
She replied with a confident nod, her hands coming together in an earnest gesture. "Exactly, sir. A storefront would benefit us in various ways. I've drafted a business proposal detailing everything," she said, offering a printed document across the desk to him.
He took it, reading through the pages.
Her proposal outlined the various potential advantages of opening a physical store, complete with projected financials and a floor plan for the layout of the hypothetical store. It also mentioned a space for rent within the city, which could potentially house the proposed establishment.
He noted the numbers she had calculated. "These are estimates?"
"Yes. Revenue estimates based on our current income, the costs of renting a place, employee salaries, and other fees associated with opening and operating a store. All included," she responded, leaning forward ever-so-slightly in her chair.
He glanced over the data once more, particularly the projected revenue. It was certainly an attractive proposition, promising higher profit margins and an opportunity to engage with a more affluent clientele.
"Do you believe this will be more profitable than our online shop in the long term?" he asked.
"Based on the numbers, yes," she said, crossing her legs as her hands came to rest in her lap. "Xashai and I discussed this extensively in one of our meetings. She is aware of my intentions."
"You've already discussed this with Xashai?"
"Yes, sir. Xashai and I are working together closely. I wouldn't make such a decision on my own. As a matter of fact, she suggested the location for the potential store."
Zark'thul grunted, conceding the point. Xashai would certainly have vetted Alice's plan. Her insight and understanding of the local markets and politics were indispensable.
After a moment's thought, he made his decision. "Very well. Proceed with the next steps. Acquire the property and ensure it's adequately staffed. If you need any assistance, let me know."
A broad smile broke across her face. "Of course! Thank you, sir."
A thought occurred to him. Not once so far had he stepped out of the Tower and into the city proper. Could he?
If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.
There was only one way to find out.
"Have Xashai send me the location and its specifics. I'll take a look at it," he said.
Alice nodded. "Of course, sir. I'll let her know right away. Would that be all?"
"Yes. You're dismissed," he replied, and she rose, gathering her things before exiting his office. Once she was gone, he turned his attention to Elspeth, who had been standing nearby. "Make the necessary arrangements. I'm going out. I am allowed to, aren't I?"
"There are no restrictions on your movement outside the Tower or in this city, sir," she replied. "However, you won't be able to use your powers or summon assistance from within the Tower unless in exceptional circumstances. I will see to it that a car is prepared for you."
"Good."
Zark'thul stepped into the courtyard, a rare outing for him. Typically, his days were confined within the Tower, managing the administrative demands that his new, enigmatic position entailed. Yet, today was an exception—one he intended to exploit to its fullest.
A sleek, black automobile idled nearby, ready to whisk him away. He noted the black windows that provided privacy from prying eyes. At least, that was his assumption.
His thoughts were abruptly derailed by Elspeth, who seemed to materialize beside him. "Your car is here, sir. We have a few hours before the property viewing," she informed him.
"We? You're coming along?" he inquired.
"As your personal assistant, my place is by your side," she answered matter-of-factly.
He rolled his eyes but didn't protest. He stepped into the car, seating himself in the back. As he settled in, he noticed the vehicle's opulent interior. Leather upholstery enveloped him, and the polished wooden paneling was accented by sleek metal fixtures. The cabin was spacious, the carpeting below his feet lush, and the lighting was provided by a cunningly designed sunroof, giving the cabin a pleasant illumination.
Elspeth followed him in, seating herself adjacent to him. "Let's go," she announced.
Almost instantly, the car hummed to life, its wheels gently rolling over the courtyard's paved surface. Zark'thul felt a brief moment of surprise at the vehicle's movement, for there was no driver behind the wheel. He'd always observed their transport vehicles being manned. Yet, Elspeth seemed undisturbed. Were self-driving vehicles a common occurrence?
As the gates of the Tower's courtyard parted, the car navigated its way out and onto the city's bustling streets.
Zark'thul leaned back, watching the urban scenery of skyscrapers and commercial buildings glide past his window.
"I never asked what this place was called," he said aloud.
Elspeth seemed to pick up on his unspoken inquiry. "This city is called Avalon."
Avalon... the name echoed in his mind—a familiar name.
"Can you tell me about this city?" he asked, looking at the vast buildings with their sharp, angular design. Many had facades adorned with glass that glittered in the sunlight.
"Certainly," Elspeth replied, her green eyes momentarily flashing. "Avalon is known as the 'City of Eternal Convergence,' an apt moniker. The city has a unique position, situated as a nexus where realms intersect and overlap. Beings from all realms can be found here."
Zark'thul's brow furrowed. "How is that possible?"
"The city is in a unique dimensional pocket. The realm that we're in is both a world of its own and a convergence point for others. Avalon is one of the larger cities, but there are more of them across this realm."
As Zark'thul continued to watch the city's bustle from his window, he understood that 'all realms' truly meant the diversity that existed here. Buildings that ranged from towering, to squat, to ornate to simplistic—each distinct architecture told a story of its origin realm.
The inhabitants were no less varied: some humanoid and some not, others clad in clothes similar to his while many wore garments as exotic as their forms.
Elspeth continued, "The population here is a melting pot of various species from humans to dwarves, elves, ogres, goblins, and more. Some even consider Avalon to be the 'afterlife' for those who pass on from the lower realms, although no one truly knows for sure if that's the case."
"The afterlife?" Zark'thul asked, intrigued.
"The city is boundless and eternal," Elspeth answered. "Some beings who have died in lower realms may find themselves here upon death. Yet, many are born into the city, and others find themselves in Avalon by virtue of its strange nature, simply manifesting within its boundaries."
"And no one knows how or why they end up here?" he asked.
"No one knows. It is as though the city selects those who belong."
He looked back out the window. "Sounds like this city behaves similarly to the Tower."
A ghost of a smile flickered on her lips. "Quite right, sir."
Their conversation was interrupted as the car turned sharply, and a small building came into view. The car slowed to a stop, and the doors opened.
"We're here, sir," Elspeth announced. They both stepped out and stood before a building with a For Rent sign plastered on the front. The agent sent to assist them wasn't present yet.
"This is it?" he asked, squinting at the plain, single-story brick building, which was wide but short, taking up considerable street frontage but dwarfed in height by its neighbors.
"It is," Elspeth confirmed.
"Didn't expect it to be this small," he said.
"Not an issue, sir. You can expand it once you own the place," she replied, glancing down at her wristwatch. "We have two hours and forty-two minutes until the appointed time for the property viewing. What would you like to do in the meantime, sir?"
A grin crept onto Zark'thul's face. "How about a short stroll through the city?"
Leaving their car in the parking lot, Zark'thul and Elspeth embarked on an impromptu tour of the area. Their journey took them down sidewalks and avenues, the hustle and bustle of the city enveloping them.
The atmosphere in Avalon was remarkably relaxed, he observed. The beings they encountered seemed to go about their business with an air of nonchalance, though occasionally he noticed curious glances directed their way, especially at Elspeth.
As they walked, Elspeth served as his guide, her voice carrying an informative tone.
"Is there anything in particular that you're looking for, sir?" she asked.
"No," he replied, his eyes scanning the multitude of shops and storefronts that lined the streets. "I simply want to see what sort of products and services this city has to offer."
As he was conducting a visual inspection of the storefronts, they passed by a café. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee wafted through the air, compelling him to stop momentarily.
After days... weeks of Elspeth's incessant coffee offerings, he'd developed a taste for it. An involuntary snort escaped him. Was this some kind of Stockholm syndrome for coffees?
Elspeth, having paused beside him, shot him a query with her eyes.
"I would like some coffee," he declared, making his way into the café.
"Of course, sir."
Upon entering, they were greeted by the cafe's barista, a blue-skinned being with a single horn protruding from her head.
"He'll have a cappuccino with skimmed milk, a bit of sugar, but no whipped cream, no foam, and chocolate on top. Oh, and a lid. Is that alright, sir?" Elspeth requested with a sidelong glance at him.
It's coffee... how hard could it be? "Yes."
"That would be 15 credits, please," the barista said, her fingers dancing on the cash register. Elspeth obliged by tapping her wristwatch to the screen of the register, completing the transaction. The barista proceeded to prepare his drink, the gurgling and hissing of the espresso machine filling the air.
While he waited, Zark'thul leaned against the wall, glancing out of the café's large windows. Outside, Avalon's cityscape was a fascinating juxtaposition of old and new. Gleaming skyscrapers dominated the horizon, their mirrored surfaces reflecting the sky. Closer to the ground, buildings with stone facades and ornate carvings nestled between the towering structures.
Pedestrians filled the streets and sidewalks. There was an unceasing flux of automobiles, some modern and sleek, and some antique, each emitting a distinct noise. It was a jarring mix of eras, yet the chaos seemed harmonious.
Elspeth silently accepted the drink from the barista, carefully placing a lid on top before extending it to him. He accepted the beverage and sipped it. The taste was virtually identical to the ones Elspeth would offer him, albeit not quite as hot.
There was no need for him to make his preferences known; Elspeth already knew. She always did.
"Shall we move on?" she asked, and he nodded. They stepped back onto the street, continuing their leisurely exploration.
They passed various shops: clothing stores with mannequins draped in exotic garments, restaurants exuding delicious aromas, bookstores with enticing displays, and myriad more. All of these establishments displayed their price tags for all to see.
As they walked, Elspeth shared her insights on the city, speaking of the shops, the landmarks, and the people they saw. Her words were interspersed with questions that piqued his curiosity, such as inquiring about the technology that powered the cars, the trains crisscrossing the city, and the distant blimps that cruised above.
Each question of hers was accompanied by a detailed answer, almost as if she had been waiting for his inquiries.
So engrossed was he in his observations of Avalon that their eventual return to the storefront available for rent had taken him by surprise.
"A pleasure meeting you," the agent, a short, plump man with a receding hairline, said with a warm smile. "And of course, a big thank you for showing interest in this little piece of real estate. As you can see, it is a lovely property that has seen excellent upkeep."
He unlocked the doors and then turned to Zark'thul and Elspeth, his key ring jangling. "Please, this way," he beckoned them.
They were escorted into a brightly lit interior, the space adorned with pristine white walls, a shining tiled floor, and ample windows. The ceiling was also of a pristine white and hung with chic-looking lights that were currently turned off, the abundance of windows providing more than enough illumination. There was a door to the right and another at the end of the store. To the left, a set of stairs led to an upper floor.
"All the appliances you see here are included in the package, from the lights to the heating system and air conditioning," the agent said, waving his hand around. "Shall we explore the first floor?"
He led them through the right door, which opened to a break room fitted with a coffee maker and a sink. To the back was a bathroom that, like the rest of the store, was impeccably maintained.
Then they moved to the back room. It was large, filled with shelves, cabinets, and empty storage racks. The walls were covered in light-colored wood panels, while the floor was lined with gray ceramic tiles. Two large shutter doors were positioned at the far end of the room, which suggested to Zark'thul that they likely faced the rear street or alleyway.
"As you can see, there's plenty of space here," the agent chimed in. "Perfect for whatever storage needs you might have."
They ventured upstairs, where the tour continued. Upstairs was a series of rooms that could serve as offices or private spaces. These rooms were similarly bright and modern, furnished with simple, sleek desks, chairs, and wooden shelving.
As he walked through the building, Zark'thul noticed Elspeth scrutinizing every detail. Her gaze wandered from the tiles to the walls and furniture. She checked the light switches and the appliances, making notes on her tablet.
When they returned to the main floor, Elspeth engaged the agent in a conversation. "How much is the monthly rent for this property?"
The agent cleared his throat. "The owner is looking for 25,000 credits per month. It's a very reasonable price, considering the prime location."
Elspeth raised an eyebrow. "25,000 a month? With all due respect, sir, the price seems rather... ambitious. We would want to negotiate down."
"Very well. The final price depends on what the owner deems acceptable," the agent replied. "However, as a prime location, this storefront is expected to fetch a significant premium."
As they spoke, Zark'thul explored the store. It certainly matched the layout he had seen in the report Alice Blankenship had sent him. It was spacious, clean, and in good condition, providing ample room for a storefront. He imagined the main area bustling with customers, marveling at their offerings.
Then his thoughts turned to the upstairs area, with its offices and storage spaces. Here, too, he could envision his staff at work, processing orders and maintaining stock.
His feet carried him outside. The storefront was situated on a corner lot, giving it two large glass-paned display windows. From here, he could see the ongoing ebb and flow of the city. There was a steady stream of vehicles and foot traffic. An excellent location indeed.
From the distance, he could see the imposing figure of the Tower, dwarfing the buildings around it. Much like the other skyscrapers, it was a tower of glass, steel, and concrete that had become part of the city's distinctive skyline. It appeared perfectly ordinary, basking in the daylight.
It was hard to imagine that inside, a labyrinthine, non-euclidean space awaited.
It wasn't long before Elspeth and the real estate agent found him.
"Negotiations are complete, sir," she reported. "We have agreed to 15,000 credits a month, with an additional 10,000 for the initial three-month security deposit."
He nodded. "That's acceptable."
"Very good," the agent said. "Once you sign the contract and the deposit clears, the storefront is yours."
"We'll arrange the signing," Elspeth interjected. "Thank you for your time."
"My pleasure," the agent said. "It has been a joy meeting you both. Please contact me if you have any further questions."
He offered a handshake, which Zark'thul accepted. After a quick farewell, the agent left.
"Well, that was easier than expected," Zark'thul said.
"Agreed. It was an efficient negotiation. With this property secured, we can start preparing for the new venture. Do you have a name in mind for the store, sir?"
"Not really."