Anime: Fight Sukuna at the beginning?.

Chapter 445, First Item: [Secret News]

After Wensheng made his request.

Looking at the computer not far away, it seemed to be frantically clicking the mouse and typing on the keyboard, yet still unable to produce any response.

The young swordsman, unable to comprehend the battle he had just fought, was stuck in a 'crash'.

I glanced at the many guards in front of the outpost, who had fallen silent after observing the battle.

Fang Yi, standing outside the town, glanced at the unfinished quest "[Go to Hamlet Town]" on the panel.

He raised his voice slightly and repeated the request.

"So, you can take me to the guild."

"Could you also tell me about the [Mercenary Ranking] and some things about the town?"

Before the guards could react.

Fang Yi patted his bottom again, looking at the carriage beside him with lingering fear.

He gave a self-introduction and then added a very down-to-earth complaint.

Fang Yi, a traveler.

"The crows' riding skills and the quality of the seats were really terrible."

"I have a feeling that if I sit any longer, my butt will be split into seventeen parts."

The swordsman, whose face had a somewhat mercenary look, immediately realized what was going on and put on a bright smile.

He picked up where Fang Yi left off.

"The fact that the seats in those carriages are in terrible condition is one of the few 'consensus's' among the people who come to the town, Lord Fangyi."

Fang Yi put on a standard smile, spread his hands, and said something to further ease the tension.

"Riding in that carriage was pure torture."

“I think the owner of the carriage should pay us for accepting this kind of ‘punishment’.”

"It looks like I need to take a break and slow down for a while."

"After finishing up those things with the guild, I'll find a place to rest and get some sleep."

The shrewd-looking swordsman instantly grasped Fang Yi's needs.

He immediately looked at the guards beside him and began to give orders.

"You, go and relay the order."

"Let them prepare a place for this Lord Fangyi to stay."

"So that Lord Fangyi can move in as soon as he finishes the formalities!"

The swordsman who was speaking also nudged the somewhat timid young swordsman next to him with his elbow.

He kicked the other man and began to "teach" the young swordsman a lesson.

"Vaughn, are you deaf? Or is your leg broken?"

"Didn't you hear Lord Woyin's orders?"
"Quickly take this Lord Fang Yi to the guild!"

Then, she lowered her head and tentatively asked Fang Yi a question.

"My lord, shall I accompany you?"

Fang Yi waved his hand.

"Just him."

Fang Yi has no intention of changing personnel.

Barring any unforeseen circumstances.

This swordsman named Vaughn is someone who can generate a lot of gold coins and is worth befriending.
-
The man only glanced at it.

He then discovered that this young swordsman named Vaughn was not simple at all.

The armor worn by the opponent was of exceptional craftsmanship and even had the attribute of "weight reduction".

Using the knowledge gained from the [Basic Alchemy] course, Fang Yi quickly made a judgment.

This set of armor can be considered a 'near-excellent' item within the category of [Tier 2 Fine], where the upper and lower limits vary greatly.

It's no worse than some [Tier 2 Rare] equipment.

You can sell at least 10000 points in the space.

The swordsman's badge, shaped like two crossed swords, was hanging on the other person's chest.

It is also a piece of equipment of the quality of "Tier 2 Excellent - Half-step Great Perfection" which is just one step away from "Tier 2 Fine".

At the same time, the boots on the opponent's feet also reached the quality of [Tier 2 Excellent].

Not to mention, the young swordsman's blond hair was strikingly similar to that of the guard captain, Woyin.

Considering the special way the garrison captain treated him—almost like breaking a steamed bun into pieces, chewing it, and feeding it to him—he taught him how to behave and interact with others.

It was obvious that this young, somewhat naive swordsman was some distant relative of the garrison captain.

He might also be the youngest son of a nobleman who craves adventure.

With a little effort, Fang Yi could use this inexperienced young man to get in touch with Wo Yin.

Furthermore, they explored the side missions of the security forces.
-
Therefore, Fang Yi walked over to the other party in a very friendly manner.

He took the money bag from the other person and shook it.

Patted the young man on the shoulder.

At the same time, the monster limbs that were separated during the previous battle and used to exchange for [Old Gold Coins] were revealed.

"Let's go. I think we need to exchange these monster limbs for rewards as soon as possible."

"No one can resist the louder sound of coins clinking when a money bag is shaken."

"Are you right, Swordsman Vaughn?"

"Next, a guide will answer my questions and help me get familiar with the town?"
"I still have many questions."

Vaughn looked at the man smiling at him.

It's really hard to believe that the other party was so arrogant just a few seconds ago.

Equate it with a powerful man who says, "Can I change those boring rules?"

But Wo Yin taught him a lesson, and he vaguely realized that the garrison captain's instruction to accompany Fang Yi was to defuse the conflict.

She also gained a real understanding of the man's strength, and a faint sense of longing and anticipation arose in her heart.

The young man responded immediately.

"You are right, Lord Fangyi."

No one can refuse to be paid.

"I am honored to be your guide as you familiarize yourself with the town and answer your questions."

Vaughn bent down slightly and led the way for the man.

"The guild should head this way."
-
As Fang Yi officially entered the town.

He also heard the long-awaited notification sound announcing the completion of the mission.

You have completed the quest "Travel to Hamlet Town".

As a result of your performance, you have earned 3500 points and 350 [Old Gold Coins].

He glanced at the [old gold coins] in his two personal spaces.

Fang Yi nodded in satisfaction.

Apart from the four monster limbs waiting to be exchanged for rewards.

The number of "Old Gold Coins" – this "event token" – has reached a considerable 3055.

A horizontal comparison of the initial starting capital of 100 [Old Gold Coins].

Fang Yi felt that he was in an absolutely leading position among all reincarnators when it came to the resource of [Old Gold Coins].

Once we get there, the guild should be able to gain a deeper understanding of the value of these old gold coins.

The prompts in the space are still ongoing.

You have entered a special area: Hamlet Town.

Killing or intentionally harming fellow Reincarnators in this area will not yield any rewards and will result in severe penalties.

If you are witnessed by members of this faction outside this area actively killing members of their own faction, you will be punished with penalties such as "unable to accept missions" and "driven out of town."

Fang Yi instantly sensed the unspoken meaning of the space.

This is a 'safe zone,' don't cause me any trouble!

If you want to ambush someone, do it outside of town! But be quick and don't get caught!

I glanced at my private message function and tentatively brought up the ID.

He received this 'friendly' reminder.

[This explanation is provided because of your access restrictions.]

This feature can be unlocked after you reach a certain [Mercenary Level] and accumulate a certain number of points.

Upon seeing this notification, Fang Yi, who had been promised the [Hero lv2] level badge, unconsciously quickened his pace.

It is obvious that this is under the condition of 'reclaiming the land alone'.

It's no longer realistic to expect to quickly contact Miss Gu Qi and complete a transaction.

Aside from searching for the other party like looking for a needle in a haystack and using extremely 'primitive' methods to advance the transaction.

He needs to find a way to increase his [Mercenary Level] and unlock [Private Messages] to become a 'Modern Person'.

Therefore, he turned to Vaughn, who was standing nearby, and asked him a question.

"Then, Swordsman Vaughn."

"Could you explain the [Mercenary Rank] system to me, so I can understand the meaning and benefits behind these ranks? And how can I quickly level them up?"
-
Fang Yi asked a question.

Vaughn paused nervously for a second to think.

He then began to describe his understanding of the [Mercenary Rank] in a somewhat fragmented manner.

"This can be considered a hybrid certification of an adventurer's ability and strength in solving tasks."

"As far as I know, the mercenary ranks are roughly divided into Apprentice lv1, Warrior lv2, Elite lv3, and Master lv4, from low to high."

"As long as an individual can afford the cost of 30 [old gold coins] and is not wanted by the police."

"You will then receive an [Identity Badge] that is bound to you and the [Traveler lv0] identity verification."

As he spoke, Vaughn pulled out a nameplate that faintly emitted a spiritual aura from his helmet.

The explanation began to describe the function of this item.

"And the [identity badge] that is tied to an individual and indicates their [mercenary rank]."

"It can be seen as a document to verify the identity of a [mercenary] and a business card to quickly introduce oneself to others."

"Of course, you can also just display the [Mercenary Rank] and not the name."

As he spoke, Vaughn tossed the nameplate in his hand with a hint of embarrassment.

This gave it a gray hue that signified [Apprentice lv1].

At the same time, he pointed to a building not far away and explained the role of the [Mercenary Level].

"In this town, some special facilities are only open to those who meet the [Mercenary Rank] requirement."

For example, the blacksmith shop that repairs, forges, and improves equipment is not open to apprentices.

"Instead, it is open to higher-level [mercenaries]."

"Some commissions and missions, as well as those 'dungeons' that pop up from time to time, also have requirements for [Mercenary Level]."

As Vaughn explained, Fang Yi also heard the spatial notification sound.

You have received information related to the keyword "mercenary".

You have learned about the keywords "Endless" and "Dark Dungeon".

[As the first reincarnator to learn of this information.]

You will receive additional rewards after completing the [Mercenary Rank] certification and unlocking the next step of the mission.

Listen to the prompts in the space.

Fang Yi quickened his pace again, and tentatively asked the question he was most concerned about.

"Is there a way to increase [Mercenary Level]?"

"A commission? A mission? Or perhaps a 'dungeon'?"

Vaughn put away his nameplate.

After thinking for a moment, I gave a reply.

"I don't know much about 'dungeons' where you kill monsters to get loot, like in a dungeon, but as far as I know..."

"After completing a mission that matches your [Mercenary Level], you will receive a certain amount of [Training Points] based on the mission's difficulty and completion status."

"After accumulating a certain amount of [Training Points], you can submit an evaluation for upgrading your [Mercenary Level]."

"If the assessment is passed, the level can be upgraded."

As he spoke, Vaughn cast an envious glance at Fang Yi.

"Of course, with the guarantee of others, it is also possible to directly obtain a certain [mercenary level]."

"For example, Lord Fangyi's [Hero Level 2] [Identity Badge]."

As he spoke, Vaughn nervously looked around.

After confirming that no one was paying attention to the two of them, she leaned closer to Fang Yi and revealed a secret to the man.

I'm not sure who will be responsible for assessing whether a mercenary's rank should be increased.

"But I am certain that Lord Woyin is one of them."

He also possesses a veto power that he rarely uses.

"If we can gain his approval, the assessment of our [mercenary rank] will naturally proceed without any obstacles."

After revealing this information, Vaughn nervously added another sentence to Fang Yi.

"I only told you because I know your uncle thinks highly of you."

"Don't say I said that."
-
As soon as Vaughn said this, Fang Yi heard a notification sound from the space.

You have learned a secret about the keyword "mercenary".

Continuously uncovering related "secrets" can yield additional benefits related to the "keywords."

Fang Yi also keenly noticed words such as 'evaluation', 'guarantee', and 'veto power'.

Instantly realizing that in this mission, if one wanted to increase their [Mercenary Level], which was tied to benefits, then...

Simply focusing on killing monsters and completing quests won't suffice.

It seems that we'll need someone like Woyin to give their approval first.

Even the little-known veto power held by Woyin could be used to scheme against people in extreme circumstances.

Therefore, it is necessary for him to maintain a good relationship with these people.

The swordsman in front of them had a close relationship with Woyin and addressed him as his uncle.

This is clearly a good starting point.

He needed to slightly improve his relationship with this swordsman.

Therefore, Fang Yi pointed to the swordsman's badge on the other person's chest.

He proactively made a request that the swordsman found quite perplexing.

"Since you've shared information that others can't know, I'll naturally give you a corresponding gift in return."

"Give me the badge."

Despite some doubts, Vaughn still took off the 'Second-Tier Excellent, Half-Step Great Perfection' [Swordsman Badge] and handed it to Fang Yi.

Fang Yi held the equipment in his palm.

In an instant, thanks to the knowledge I had just gained from the [Alchemy Basics lv10], [Alchemy General Knowledge lv10], and [Alchemy - Truth School lv15] that I had just added before this mission.

The special skill called "Hundred Solutions to Form Refinement" faithfully activated.

The system automatically presented seven options for improving this equipment, which includes "slightly increasing the damage of one-handed sword skills and slightly increasing stress resistance."

Having clarified the plan, Fang Yi smiled slightly at the puzzled Vaughn beside him.

Even though I am not a very good alchemist.

"But we were also able to discover some of the flaws in the equipment that affected its functionality, and make some minor improvements accordingly."

"I might as well practice my skills."
-
Oh no, my badge!

Hearing these words about 'practice', and seeing the precious badge held in the other person's hand.

Vaughn frowned slightly and offered a different opinion in a low voice, offering a tactful attempt to persuade him.

They were trying to retrieve the equipment that was about to be destroyed by the other side.

"Lord Fangyi, how could I possibly trouble you?"

"Perhaps this equipment is perfect enough, and we don't need it."

Seeing that Fang Yi remained unmoved, he took out two gems, placed them on the badge, and began to gesture with his hands.

Vaughn panicked.

He glanced at the guild gate that was so close by, and mustered his courage to make one last attempt at persuasion.

"We'll be at the guild soon, we can't waste your time, you should..."

Vaughn didn't finish his sentence.

Because, before he could finish speaking...

The next moment, Fang Yi tossed him a brand new one, which faintly emitted an even stronger magical fluctuation.

It has already been upgraded to [Tier 2 Excellent] quality.

It has a badge that [moderately increases the damage of one-handed sword skills, slightly reduces skill energy consumption, and slightly increases stress resistance].

She looked down at the brand-new badge the man had given her.

Vaughn felt a dryness in his throat and temporarily lost the ability to speak.

How is this possible? How could there be such an unheard-of method for improving equipment?

He slowly raised his head and looked at Fang Yi.

But all they saw was Fang Yi's calm face and heard his indifferent reply.

There is no need for that.

"I've already said that before."

"I don't waste too much time on anything I do."

You hear the notification sound in your ear: "The character [Vorn]'s friendship level with you has changed to [65/100]. You can get more help from this character."

Fang Yi walked into the guild without looking back, leaving behind these words.

"Let's go to the guild you mentioned."

"Already arrived."

Vaughn watched the man walk into the guild.

I had a vague feeling that I was witnessing the birth of a legend.

(End of this chapter)