As Cedric and the Crimson Vanguard team continued exploring their respective worlds, Gelian found himself standing behind the cafe's counter, watching the six adventurers completely absorbed in the gaming experience. For the first time in what felt like ages, his cafe was buzzing with life—even if it was just six people. Their laughter and occasional shouts of surprise filled the room, taking him back to the early days of his internet cafe when it was a bustling hub of excitement.
Still, he had questions, lots of them and with the Phantom Internet Cafe System at his side, he figured now was as good a time as any to get some answers.
"System," he began, addressing the invisible AI that only he could hear, "is there any way I can sell food or drinks to the customers? I mean, back when the cafe was running, snacks kept people coming in for longer, you know? Helped me make a bit more money, too."
The system's mechanical voice responded immediately.
"For now, the cafe is limited to serving noodles and Koke, a popular beverage. Additional food and drink items will unlock as you complete further tasks and fulfill specific objectives in other worlds."
"Just noodles and Koke, huh?" Gelian chuckled. "That's... nostalgic, I guess. Reminds me of the basics back in the day." He made a mental note to stock up on noodles if these adventurers were anything like his past customers, they'd go through them pretty quickly.
He decided to probe deeper. "Alright, that's good to know. What about my connection to other worlds? Are there restrictions on the kinds of people who can find the portal?"
"The portal's visibility is primarily tied to fate," the system answered, as cryptic as ever. "Those who are destined to find it or who need it the most will be drawn to it. However, completing additional tasks will allow you to increase the number of portals, thus broadening your reach."
Gelian nodded thoughtfully, processing the answer. "So, for now, I just wait for 'fated' customers?" he asked, though he suspected the answer. "I guess that means I can't rely on traditional advertising in these other worlds, huh?"
"Correct. Currently, you cannot advertise or directly invite customers from their worlds. The portals will activate in strategic locations as you progress."
He rubbed his chin, staring thoughtfully at the adventurers. That meant each customer's experience would be organic, a discovery that felt genuine rather than forced. It suited the mysterious nature of his cafe, but he knew it would also mean growth would be a slower, more challenging journey.
"Alright," he continued, "and what about the equipment and games? Right now, it's only Minecraft and Breath of the Wild. How do I get more?"
"By completing tasks assigned by the system," it replied. "Each successful task and mission will unlock additional game titles and upgraded equipment."
Gelian sighed, already feeling the anticipation of future tasks and missions that would expand his catalog. He leaned back, glancing around the cozy room, his heart swelling as he watched the adventurers immersed in their games, laughing and exchanging strategies. Even though it was only six customers, this felt like a win—a piece of the internet cafe he'd dreamed of bringing back to life.
"This is what I wanted," he said quietly, feeling a sense of fulfillment. The sight of people genuinely enjoying themselves in his cafe brought back memories of the cafe's golden days, where people gathered to play, laugh, and unwind. With every laugh and shout, he felt that dream come back to life a little more.
Even if he'd have to take it one mission at a time, he was ready to make this cafe into the haven he'd always envisioned.
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