"Hey, wait a minute---???"
As I observed the ever-increasing growth of the blood mushrooms in my underground base, I couldn't help but notice a peculiar change. The mana vein I had tapped into seemed to have caused a mutation among the blood mushrooms, boosting their spore production even further. But that wasn't the only surprise—the spores had taken on a hallucinogenic effect.
At first, I thought my android eyes' heads-up display was malfunctioning.
The hallucinogenic property was an unexpected development, and I couldn't believe my eyes. But as the days went by, and I continued to monitor the blood mushroom growth, it became evident that this was no illusion.
It was clear that the mana vein had triggered an evolution in the blood mushrooms. Their spore production had surged to levels I had never anticipated, and the hallucinogenic effect was an intriguing and a dangerous defense mechanism.
These mushrooms were now more potent and valuable than ever.
"Hmmm....why do I feel the need to party whenever I say or think about the word "hallucinogenic...."
My mind raced with thoughts of how this discovery could be utilized. The hallucinogenic spores had the potential to create potent potions or even serve as a valuable commodity on their own. However, I needed to exercise caution, as the effects of these spores could be unpredictable.
I quickly set about studying the spores and their effects.
My android body's advanced sensors allowed me to analyze the spores in detail, and I discovered that the hallucinogenic effect was mild at low doses but could become dangerously intense at higher concentrations.
It was evident that harvesting the blood mushrooms had to be approached with greater care. My golem henchmen, with their lack of human vulnerability, were unaffected by the spores, but I had to ensure that they followed stringent protocols during the harvesting process.
"I don't know what to do with this but its better to have it and not need it, instead of not having it when I needed it."
I implemented new measures to collect the excessive spores during harvest, and I also modified the storage area to contain any potential spore leaks. The last thing I needed was for the hallucinogenic spores to spread uncontrollably.
Despite the risks, the potential benefits of this discovery were too enticing to ignore.
With the increased spore production and the hallucinogenic properties, the value of my blood mushroom wine could skyrocket. It could be marketed as not only a luxurious delicacy but also a unique experience for those willing to indulge.
"Can you say, spread the love/sell hallucinogens to anyone who likes to partay?"
As word of the hallucinogenic blood mushroom wine spread, the demand for my product soared even further. People from all over the frigid north clamored for a taste of this unique creation. Some sought it for the sheer pleasure of the hallucinogenic experience, while others believed it held mystical properties.
"Looks like the Frigid North, is open-minded enough to "feel the love" from doing vices."
The reputation of Roger Connery, the hermit sage, grew exponentially.
He was now not only renowned for his exquisite products but also for the enigmatic qualities of the blood mushroom wine. Rumors of its transformative effects on the mind and soul circulated, adding to its allure.
"Now there are categories on the kind of blood mushroom wines that I sell: normal, pricey, enhanced and "party harder" category."
But with the increased demand came greater challenges.
Ensuring a steady supply of the hallucinogenic blood mushrooms became a priority. I expanded the cultivation chambers and devoted more golems to the task of tending to the mushrooms. It was essential to maintain a consistent supply without depleting the precious resource.
As the months passed, I continued to monitor the blood mushroom growth closely.
The success of my venture had made me wealthy beyond my wildest dreams times three, but I couldn't afford to be complacent. Any world was cruel and heartless and people love to take and steal from those of the haves.
"I could increase the potency of the hallucinogenic blood mushroom spore if its introduced via an inhaler of sorts...."
While the hallucinogenic blood mushroom wine had become the talk of the town, I couldn't forget the other aspect of my underground base—my snowbear bacon business. The demand for the succulent meat remained high, and I had to ensure a constant supply of snowbear hides and meat.
My golems were now well-trained in the art of snowbear hunting, and they ventured out into the frigid outlands to bring back the prized catches. I had to admit that my decision to increase the snowbear population through the vitality potion had paid off handsomely.
"OC (online credit), OC, OC, OooooCccccc....oceeeee..."
The combination of the blood mushroom wine and snowbear bacon had made me a formidable force in the frigid north. My territory was now renowned for its unique and exotic products, drawing visitors and traders from far and wide.
"Time to party!"
I reveled in my success for a bit, and experimented on using my prototype spore inhaler, by using and altered Soul Food Spell, its now been bastardized into Soul Drug Spell, I was able to feeeeL, sAaavor and eeenJoooy, the temForary saensation of eEntering a PsYcHeDeLiC w0Rld.
*BREATHING OUT EXCESS SMOKE
As the days turned into nights, I found myself engorging into psychedelic pleasure for the past few weeks. Sometimes I forgot what day it is or what I was supposed to do or something, a golem kept buzzing around me about some schedule but I just smiled at it and it was fun hearing my deep slow motiony voice.
"You....I mean....me...."ME"....I talk funny...."
The persona of Roger Connery, the hermit sage, had allowed me to carve out a niche for myself, establishing a thriving business that was the envy of many. Now not only that I was enjoying the carnal pleasure of doing drugs, I have always done this in the military back on Gaion in secret but now....now I'm a master of my own destiny.
"No one can control me! I gotta power!!"
But beneath the success and power, I sometimes couldn't shake the sense of emptiness that lingered within me. The amnesia barrier and the malleable-minded vendors were a testament to the lengths I was willing to go to protect my interests, even if it meant compromising the free will of others.
But only for a couple of minutes.
"I have always been bossed around by royalty and high ranking officials, when I commanded a corps, those bastards.....can't let me have any fun!"
As I gazed upon the vast expanse of my underground base, I realized that I had come a long way since my arrival on this world. But as Deth Jones/Roger Connery, the enigmatic hermit sage, I was still searching for something more—a purpose beyond the pursuit of wealth and power.....and psychedelic drugs.
Maybe sex?
The world around me has changed, before it was always the war torn scenario of Gaion. Now, its the Frigid North where its a land of opportunity and danger, yet I was still relaxing and enjoying myself, an upgrade from my previous life.
With the hallucinogenic blood mushroom wine and snowbear bacon as my flagship products, I was gaining tons of funds that I can do whatever the hell I want to do.
As my underground base hummed with robust activity, I knew that my tale, the tale of Deth Jones---formerly Omega Mane Crown ten circle Archmage....was far from over....
One week after.....
The message had arrived in my P.O. box, a formal invitation from the Mayor of Ice City himself. It seemed that my reputation as Roger Connery, the hermit sage, had reached even the highest echelons of the Frigid North. The Mayor wanted to honor me for my recent products, especially the famous blood mushroom wine and snowbear bacon, which had taken the entire region by storm.
"Should I or shouldn't I....?"
I stood in my underground base, contemplating the invitation.
Part of me was tempted to attend the banquet, to bask in the glory of my success and revel in the attention of the city's elite. But another part of me was cautious and hesitant. I preferred the solitude of my underground realm, far away from prying eyes and potential threats.
Yet, the opportunity to showcase my products and network with influential figures was not one to be easily dismissed. It could open doors to new opportunities and ventures, ones that would solidify my place as a force to be reckoned with in the Frigid North.
As I mulled over the decision, an idea began to form in my mind. I couldn't risk exposing myself directly, but I could send a proxy in my place. And so, I set to work on a new project—a modified golem, unlike any other.
"Yes, all I can do is create, create and CREATE!"
This prototype golem was originally designed as a simple robot with a basic operating system. However, with my knowledge of magic and advanced technology, I transformed it into something much more sophisticated and human-like. It lacked human skin, appearing as a mechanical humanoid, but I dressed it in replica robes and armed it with a staff, giving it an air of enigmatic mystique....the same as moi.
"Almost perfectly like me but flawed....on purpose!"
The golem's programming was enhanced to simulate human behavior, speech, and mannerisms. It could interact with others seamlessly, almost convincingly. It would serve as my proxy at the banquet, representing me while I remained safe in my underground domain....I will also share its eyes and hearing, to ensure that it answers almost perfectly like me.
"Yo' mayor! We down for the party, so I expect some red carpet treatment capische? HAHAHA.....I'm just messin' with 'ya dawg!! See you soon brah!!!"
With the golem ready, I sent a message to the Mayor, expressing my gratitude for the invitation and explaining that I was currently engrossed in crucial research. I apologized for my absence but offered to "attend" the banquet using my "replica android" as an avatar. To my relief, the Mayor readily accepted the proposal, intrigued by the idea of having the esteemed Roger Connery present, even if not in person.
"Look at me fools! Bow down before this Eminence!"
On the day of the banquet, the golem stood before me, its eyes flickering with an artificial yet convincing glow. It was time for me to let my creation take center stage. Clad in my replica robes, the golem strode into the banquet hall with confidence.
The hall was adorned with opulence, its walls gleaming with ice and its tables laden with delicacies from the frigid north. The guests were the city's elite—nobles, adventurers, and influential figures—gathered to honor the enigmatic Roger Connery.
"To eat or not to eat.....there is no question, just declaration!"
As the golem entered, the chatter in the room died down, replaced by murmurs of curiosity and excitement. The Mayor himself greeted my creation warmly, impressed by the likeness to the hermit sage.
I watched via "online vision sharing" from the comfort of my underground lounge chair, my sensors connected to the golem, allowing me to see and hear everything. The golem introduced itself as Roger Connery, addressing the guests with eloquence and charm. It spoke of the blood mushroom wine, the snowbear bacon, and the magic and technology that went into their creation.
"I sell hot shit, you know, making money and stuff and stuffing my face with anything I can buy....with that said money!"
The guests were enthralled, drawn in by the golem's words and the allure of my products. They asked questions, seeking to learn more about the enigmatic hermit sage and his wondrous creations. The golem answered with grace, humor, and intelligence, leaving the guests in awe.
"Yo! Anybody care to dance!? I have the moves and most girls tend to like it!"
As the night wore on, the golem mingled effortlessly, interacting with each guest as though it were a real person. It seemed to enjoy the attention, basking in the adulation of the crowd. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in my creation.
"One time in choir camp.....we ate raw eggs mixed in a tall glass of sarsaparilla....oh, you want to talk about bacon and mushrooms.....*sigh...."
The conversation drifted to the origins of the blood mushrooms and snowbears, and the golem shared tales of my encounters with these mystical creatures. It regaled the audience with stories of bravery and cunning, adding an air of mystique to the already enigmatic Roger Connery.
"If you don't have the products made by yours truly, then you're not "in" man! You have to keep up with the trend and explicitly ask for the "party harder" category before you will ever be in my good books!! By the way, *moves closer and whispers* dat shit is the bomb 'yo!!!"
Throughout the night, the golem showcased the blood mushroom wine and snowbear bacon, offering samples to the guests. The hall was filled with laughter and delight as they indulged in the unique flavors and intoxicating effects of the hallucinogenic wine.
As the evening came to a close, the golem bid the guests farewell, promising to return with more of its wondrous creations in the future. The Mayor expressed his gratitude for the golem's presence and expressed hope for future collaborations.
"I did bad that is basically good! Good work ME!!"
As the guests departed, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of satisfaction and relief. My plan had been a success, and the reputation of Roger Connery, the hermit sage, had only grown stronger.
Back in my underground base, I deactivated the golem and sent it back on auto pilot before making sure no one is around in a lonesome alleyway----and then activated its stealth rune magic inscription, with its mission now complete.
I reflected on the events of the evening and the potential opportunities that lay ahead. My blood mushroom farm and snowbear meat business had become a phenomenon in the frigid north, and it seemed that I was on the cusp of even greater success.
"Everything is going good---too good.....it won't be long before bad comes, it always happens to everyone, one minute ya happy the next thing you know, you're being massacred because you misgendered someone or donated money for global cooling or some shit like that."
But amidst all the success and adulation, I couldn't shake the feeling of caution and my ever loving paranoia. I knew that the world was a treacherous place, and my enemies were likely watching, waiting for any sign of weakness.
As I laid down to "rest" my tired old soul, I vowed to remain vigilant and to continue expanding my underground empire.
The Frigid North may be filled with wonders and dangers, but I, Deth Jones, in a hermit sage persona, was ready to face any unknown face that wishes to put their face in my face and Ima slap them silly....I hate it when people put their face in mah face.
"I mean....duh personal space man!"