The surprise and curiosity in Liam's face reflect Oliver's unexpected proposition. His eyes fixate on Oliver's for a prolonged moment, as if searching for signs of jest or sarcasm in the proposal. The pause that hangs in the air is tense, until Liam, revealing a relaxed laugh, breaks the silence.
"Are you serious, Oliver? I've heard that the best way to learn something is through an experienced companion, but... playing with you?" The hint of nervousness in Liam's voice is noticeable, but his expression is one of genuine curiosity. The idea of diving into the world of Beyond Realms with an experienced guide like Oliver brings a mix of excitement and apprehension.
Oliver's response is accompanied by vibrant enthusiasm, his hands rising in a reassuring gesture. "Liam, my friend, patience will be the least of our concerns! Besides, you've already demonstrated incredible skill in the Beyond Realms arena. Your unique approach to class abilities left everyone in awe. Just imagine what we can achieve together!"
Oliver's excitement is contagious, and Liam can't help but smile at the vision of a future full of possibilities. "We can form an unstoppable team! Imagine the possibilities, the strategies we can create! You bring your martial expertise, and I bring my gaming experience. Together, we'll be legends both inside and outside Beyond Realms." Oliver continues, his enthusiasm filling the private room.
Infected by Oliver's fervor, Liam, still smiling, responds: "Well, Oliver, it seems like I'm about to embark on quite a journey. But before we dive into this virtual world, I need to tell you that I don't exactly have a place to stay tonight." Liam's expression reveals genuine concern, a small shadow of uncertainty amid the excitement.
Oliver's response is as swift as it is confident. With a dramatic gesture, he points to Liam, dispelling any worries. "Ah, my friend, that's also sorted out! You'll stay in one of my houses. It has all the comfort you need. But the night is just beginning. We have a world to explore, not just in the game but also here in the city!"
Excitement fills the air in Harmony Haven's private room, painting a picture of new possibilities and partnerships in Beyond Realms. Liam's eyes shine with a curiosity mixed with determination, while Oliver, the visionary, anticipates the adventure about to unfold. Oliver's smile is infectious, and positive energy flows between the two men.
Oliver's enthusiastic response to the proposal of exploring the real city adds a touch of excitement to the atmosphere of the room. The promise of adventure, both in the game and on the streets of Brook City, becomes the central piece of the unfolding narrative. As they rise, Oliver indicates that the night has only just begun, and there's much more to discover beyond the walls of Harmony Haven.
"Well, Liam, before we delve into this virtual universe, how about we explore a bit more of what this city has to offer?" suggests Oliver, his enthusiasm palpable in his tone. The invitation is loaded with possibilities, and the two men move on to the next stage of the night with elevated expectations.
The descent down the stairs is like a portal to a different world, marked by pulsating music and the vibrant lights of the nightlife area. The transformation of the environment is notable, and Oliver confidently guides Liam through the hall, showing a clear mastery of the city's nightlife scene. The immersive sound and intense colors create a dynamic atmosphere as the two friends head towards the bar.
At the counter, Oliver orders exotic drinks, introducing Liam to a universe of new flavors. Liam, initially hesitant, eventually accepts Oliver's suggestion with a nod. Sitting in a strategic corner, they observe the diversity of people around them. Oliver, always outgoing, initiates friendly interactions, establishing an instant connection with the venue's patrons. Attention gradually shifts to the presence of the two, creating an aura of curiosity and respect.
Amid laughter and lively conversations, Oliver, in a playful manner, doesn't miss the chance to tease Liam amicably. "So, Liam, it seems we have a fearless warrior in the city. I hope this excitement also translates to Beyond Realms. We can't let our opponents think we're weak, right?"
Liam's smile reveals a mix of confidence and humility as he responds to Oliver, showing that despite his inexperience in the game, his prowess in martial arts is something he fully trusts. The interaction between the two friends at the bar is light and easygoing, respecting each other's distinct personalities.
The night progresses, and the drinks flow in a relaxed manner. Oliver, a skilled socializer, attempts to involve Liam in the social interactions of the bar, introducing him to some approaching women. Liam, more reserved, participates in the fun moderately, staying true to his character.
While enjoying the lively atmosphere, Liam decides to share the story of how he arrived in Brook City. Between sips of a local drink, he begins: "You know, Oliver, my village in the mountains is an isolated place, and technology wasn't part of our reality. But after discovering about Nexus Corp in my dreams, something told me I needed to come here."
Oliver's attention is completely captured by Liam's narrative, demonstrating his genuine interest in his friend's story. Liam, expressing his emotions subtly, recounts the challenges he faced after a frustrating conversation with his parents, revealing tensions in his relationship and the decision to run away in search of answers.
"I just wanted to get here as quickly as possible to figure out what these dreams were trying to tell me. But, well, I ended up being fooled by a guy on the roadside, offering an 'express transport' to the city," Liam says, with an ironic smile.
Oliver, amused by the story, comments: "A classic scam! So, how did it go? Tell the master of tricks how you got duped."
Liam, with an impassive face, continues his tale of misfortunes, exposing his vulnerability. "The guy convinced me that the money I had wasn't valid here in the city anymore, as everything is digitized, and physical coins are no longer needed. So, he charged me extra, claiming to be the only one who would accept that money."
The atmosphere in the conversation shifts when Liam, with a semi-teary expression, reveals the most painful part of his journey. "Once I arrived in the city, I still had some dollars. The guy fooled me, said he could convert my money into 'DDs' (digital dollars) for me. Naively, I trusted him, handed over my ID, and he promised to make the transfer."
Liam, now visibly affected by the betrayal, can't hold back the tears, and the pain emerges in his choked words. "Then, that guy just hopped into the car and vanished at a speed even I couldn't keep up with." Liam's raw emotion contrasts with the coldness of the scam, leaving a resonance in the atmosphere of the bar. Oliver, sensing the depth of Liam's misfortune, shows an expression of compassion.
Watching Liam's emotional reaction, Oliver lets out a sigh of understanding. "Man, Liam, that's heavy. Not everyone in the city is as welcoming as it seems. Sorry you had to go through that."
Liam, wiping away a furtive tear, responds with a mix of gratitude and resignation. "Thanks, Oliver. It was a shock, but now it's part of my journey. I'll overcome."
Oliver, after a moment of reflection, offers an intriguing suggestion. "Well, Liam, I don't want to add insult to injury, but there's a possibility that you haven't been completely deceived. Have you heard of holographic bracelets? They're a kind of digital technology people use here in the city."
Liam's eyes lift, showing interest mixed with a touch of skepticism. "Holographic bracelets? No, never heard of them. How could that change the situation?"
Oliver, with a smile, explains: "Well, if the guy took your documents and you have a holographic bracelet, it's possible that he really transferred the money to you digitally. These bracelets are a kind of digital key, linked to your documents. If you have one, we can check if there's any trace of that transaction. Your situation might not be as bad as it seems."