Edward had heard whispers of Blue Ocean Company; it was hard not to, as it was one of the first organizations to emerge when the game launched. Backed by a powerful real-world consortium, the company was notorious for only hiring women, boasting a recruitment slogan that promised "elite beauties" without ever defining what that entailed. The identity of the company's CEO remained a mystery, yet Blue Ocean had made waves with several impressive feats.
The most talked-about event happened two weeks ago in the dark territories west of Moonlight City, where Blue Ocean undertook a pioneering mission to develop the famed "Saint Laurent Heights." The area was crawling with level 50 monsters, and its boss, the Ice Fire Demon Wolf, towered at level 62. Just a month prior, even the top players were around level 20, highlighting the challenge. Eyewitnesses reported that instead of using traditional tactics, Blue Ocean sent a team of only seven women, who managed to defeat the boss without a single casualty. Players dubbed them the "Seven Assassins," while female gamers idolized them as the "Seven Fairies."
Following this victory, Blue Ocean made a hefty payment to the Federation and dispatched a team of elite engineers to construct a multi-modal port, linking Dreamstar City and Moonlight City. The heights were renamed "Saint Laurent Port," officially under Blue Ocean's jurisdiction. This achievement solidified Blue Ocean's reputation, garnering immense influence across the game.
Many non-combat players marveled at the engineering feat when visiting the port, while other corporations recognized the lucrative opportunities arising from Blue Ocean's success. Edward was genuinely impressed. The Seven Fairies were likely around level 23, undoubtedly elite fighters with exceptional gear and skill. Their synergy was unparalleled; otherwise, it would have been impossible for seven players to take down a level 62 boss. He calculated that even if ten players like him, equipped with the best gear, attempted to take on a level 38 boss, they would fail miserably. It was clear the Seven Fairies were formidable, and as a month had passed since their triumph, they were undoubtedly improving as well.
After a moment of contemplation, Edward grinned. "Alright, I'll take your business card. If I ever visit Moonlight City, I'll count on you, Hot Girl, and Oath to look after me."
Hot Girl gave him a thumbs-up. "Glad to hear you respect me!"
Oath couldn't help but chuckle at being called "big sister."
The Star Dream Shopping Center, located in the bustling heart of Dreamstar City, sprawled over 240,000 square meters. It provided a "one-stop" service, meaning no matter your profession, you could find what you needed, complete with top-notch after-sales support. However, this luxury came at a steep price.
For instance, Edward's "Turtle Box" would sell for 100 credits in a regular weapon store but cost 300 here. The upside was that buying an AK series assault rifle came with complimentary oil, cleaning kits, holsters, gloves, and protective cases. If anything malfunctioned, repairs were also covered—services far beyond what ordinary weapon shops could offer.
As an attractive NPC salesperson rattled off features to Edward, he felt a bit awkward. Hot Girl insisted on using her card to compensate him for his earlier loss, and he observed a wealthy player drop 40,000 credits on an Armani suit, asking his girlfriend if he looked handsome. Edward felt a mix of disbelief and envy at such extravagant spending.
This fool had splurged on something so impractical, yet Edward couldn't help but admire his carefree attitude. Meanwhile, the handsome player cast a jealous glance at Edward. "Look at you, just in red underwear, flanked by three gorgeous women. That's the pinnacle of manhood! Respect, brother!"
After hours of shopping, Edward settled on the cheapest blue-and-white vest ensemble—just over 400 credits, likely the most affordable outfit in the mall. Though Hot Girl was wealthy, Edward always believed in saving where possible.
Ultimately, the trio became engrossed in their shopping spree, and Edward bid them farewell. He had no intention of purchasing equipment at the mall—not because it was overpriced, but because all the items were basic white gear. Even the priciest items had subpar stats. He had a better plan in mind.
That plan led him to the black market.
Every bustling city had its black market, and the virtual world was no exception. Here, prices were lower, and gear better than in traditional stores. Edward noted that Hot Girl's MP5 was a basic model, indicative of her luxurious shopping habits spilling over into the game.
Of course, the black market had its drawbacks. Top-tier gear typically surfaced only at corporate auctions, where prices skyrocketed. Edward's previous month of trading had taught him a valuable lesson: check out the high-end shopping centers first to see what was available, but never buy unless absolutely necessary. For regular equipment, local weapon shops run by high-level players were the go-to, while the black market was best for transitional gear where negotiation was possible. And if he ever wanted top-quality items, auction houses were the place to go.
Now, Edward urgently needed three things: a high-powered gun, a solid combat suit, and a pair of fast boots. After all, before any mission, preparation was key, and gear always goes first.