It was nighttime when I finally logged off the OASIS. I stepped out of the game room and looked at the outside view of the city. Sure enough, despite the advanced technology, one can clearly tell the rich and the poor as if there was a dividing line.
Unfortunately most of the middle-class citizens were rooted out due to the emergence of the OASIS. After all, one can easily put aside their life savings and lose everything in the same day. Therefore most of those who have lost their money lived in the Columbus Stacks.
I suited up and prepared to go out for another gathering mission. The Shadow World had steadily increased and as such in need of more land to accommodate the expansion. Other than that, I've started to transfer whole buildings like reactors and power plants to accommodate electricity for future production.
As of now, there are farms for food production, a weapons depot for military purposes, a couple of water reservoirs for water-consumption, and a few buildings for technology allocations. There is also a research laboratory being made for future subordinates to improve the Shadow World and maintain the health of its future inhabitants. Slowly but surely, a self-sustaining world is taking shape and it won't be long before it will welcome its first inhabitants besides the Shadow Army.
The area where the sea is supposed to be rich in marine biodiversity. I captured plenty of different species whether they be freshwater or saltwater species that can coexist thanks to the water flowing from the Pool of Eternal Life. The magical properties of the water will accelerate the growth process as well as further heightening the benefits when the marine life is living in its waters.
I finally headed down the elevator and strolled out. I planned to get some fresh pizza since I haven't eaten anything for a few hours. Luckily the pizza place is open 24/7 thanks to the OASIS. After all not everyone is up in the morning, some if not most players who log in to the OASIS are night owls.
There were a few who were still wearing their equipment when I saw the inside. I ordered a ham and cheese pizza and a bottle of soda. It took fifteen minutes before a fresh steaming pizza was before my eyes as well as ice-cold soda. I gorged on the pizza as a pretty nice cheese pull separated from the bitten piece.
I hummed and thought, "I missed this pizza for a while. With all the projects and land reclamation, I didn't even have time to eat some pizza. Either way, my taste buds are really happy."
After finishing my food, I left the pizza shop before heading towards a dark alleyway, where I slowly disappeared and the beginning of my mission. The next moment I was on top of a building overlooking Innovative Online Industries.
It was packed with security from top to bottom along with security traps to ensure nothing could get in or out. But there's no trouble at all since it has already been infiltrated long ago. As the clouds above covered the moonlight, I jumped into action and scaled the building before finding an open window for me to enter.
I melded into the shadows and found myself in the server room. I opened the hacking tool I got from the black market and searched for files under Nolan Sorrento and F'Nale. The search only took a few minutes before files of their corruption along with several illegal activities.
I looked through them before thinking, "I didn't think there would be so much those two did behind IOI's back, just to win the contest. Too bad everything will come crashing down once the easter egg comes to a close."
My thoughts were interrupted when I heard a door open before a lone technician strolled in to do their daily maintenance. I snuck behind him and knocked the technician unconscious by the wall. All that's left is to download their files and hand it over to the police after the contest ends.
The files were downloaded quickly and I quickly left the premises and headed towards the nearby mountains. I used Shadow Portal and reached my destination. Looking over the mountain and hills, I sectioned them off and transported them into the Shadow World. Once it's integrated, it should start to get fertilised by the rich waters from the Pool of Eternal Life.
Seeing the empty mountain range, I sighed and said, "Hopefully this wouldn't alert anyone until we have left this world."
I once more used Shadow Portal and went through returning home to relax and finally go to bed. The upcoming days will be hectic since I'll be leading the charge to finish this contest.
I slowly closed my eyes and thought, "Hopefully the girls are doing alright. They've been gone for quite a while."
I slowly drifted to sleep in the comfort of my bed. Meanwhile there was an explosion that just happened in the Columbus Stacks. The people around didn't know what happened but rushed to see if they could help any victims under the rubble.
Wade couldn't believe what just happened and was in complete shock. He walked as if his soul was stripped from his body. He realized he wouldn't see his aunt ever again and the person who ordered the attack was Nolan Sorrento.
Wade wanted revenge but he rushed towards his rig and left a message to Art3mis, Aech, Daito, Sho, and the girls to be careful. He mentioned IOI was hunting him down and they could too.
Before he could say another word, a man appeared behind his chair and covered his mouth with a chloroform cloth, which slowly knocked Wade out. He wasn't the only one who was pursued by IOI. Almost everyone was attacked except for Aech, Daito, and Sho.
In Wednesday's case, it's more like IOI was being assaulted by her. IOI personnel were on the floor moaning in pain as bruises and broken bones could be seen. Despite the tactical surprise, Wednesday quickly got the upper hand with her skills in combat. She tortured the captain in charge of the operation before finding out it was ordered by F'Nale to capture or eliminate her.
Wednesday wiped her bloody hands on a cloth and said, "Since you intend to kill me, the least I could do is put you out of your misery."
She pulled out her gun and shot the captain as well as every last IOI personnel on the floor. She calmly walked out of the warehouse unharmed, unknown to the world that a massacre just occurred.
Meanwhile another similar situation was occurring with Enid and Nitocris but unlike Wednesday, these IOI personnel were chopped into pieces by the Army of Anubis. Decapitated bodies littered the area as blood had thoroughly covered the ground.
Enid turned to look at Nitocris and asked, "Should we go back or continue touring around?"
Nitocris responded, "Continue. There's still plenty of places to visit and shop. These pests will always come and go. I'm pretty sure the one behind this will get the message. So let's go!"
Enid just agreed and strolled out with Nitocris as they went around resuming their vacation. They completely forgot about the incident that just happened. The girls headed back to their hotel with smiles on their faces. News of the kidnapping teams' demise didn't reach Sorrento and F'Nale until three days later.
Sorrento was furious and roared at F'Nale, "How can a bunch of teenagers get away from our teams?! And who killed them, F'Nale?!!"
F'Nale was also puzzled and answered, "I don't know Nolan but they got away. At least we know who they are. We can try again so don't lose your head. They're kids, Nolan!!"
Sorrento's face visibly changed as he took several deep breaths to calm himself. In a moment of clarity, his mind thought of a plan to keep plenty of eyes on our avatars since I-R0k couldn't complete it himself. He also thought of buying as much artifacts and equipment to arm and secure the final goal.
Sorrento ordered, "F'Nale, send multiple teams to keep an eye out for those kids on the OASIS. We can use them to get to the next challenge. Also start purchasing more artifacts and heavy equipment for the coming future. We'll use them to win this contest."
F'Nale walked out of the room to carry out the order while Sorrento just smiled at his "master" plan. In the corner of the room, a shadow quietly recorded their conversation.
A few days had passed and everything went back to normal besides the blatant staring from other avatars.
I passed by the Halliday Journals and saw plenty of others trying their luck to find the clue to finishing the first challenge since me and the others completed it. Thankfully I was still in disguise and strolled up to the curator booth.
As I stood in front of the booth, the Curator asked, "Is there something I can do for you today?"
I nodded and said, "Yes, I was wondering if you could open a private theatre showing the "Shining ." I would like to watch that movie up close and see what all the hype is about."
The Curator only widened his eyes before he questioned, "Are you sure you want to see this? It is pretty hardcore."
I calmly nodded and replied, "I want to try new things and starting with this will definitely help me in the future."
The Curator gave a courteous bow and asked me to follow him. I walked behind the Curator to the hallway before a door opened up with the "Shining" above the door.
The Curator opened the door and said, "May you face the future with courage and determination."
I thanked him before heading inside the room. Inside looked just like the movie inside as I'm standing on top of the stairs with a typewriter in the middle of the room. It was slowly dispensing pieces of paper with a picture of a key.
I looked over and thought, "A little too obvious to show that here is the right place to hide the next key. Well let's find the ballroom so we can finish this challenge."
I walked around the place and bypassed the twins along with the blood-filled elevator. The hallways were pretty long and confusing and it took many twists and turns before I managed to find the ballroom. Music was playing inside and as I pushed the doors open, I saw a chasm filled with green light and zombies dancing in the air with only one person who looked alive.
I calmly looked at the distressed dancer and said, "That must be Kira. And she's pretty far inside. Well here goes."
I readied myself and ran before jumping on a zombie. I repeatedly jumped from zombie to zombie before I made it to Kira's zombie, which I promptly kicked to the abyss below. I managed to land on a solid surface with Kira.
I held out my hand and asked, "Would you care to dance?"
Kira's eyes glistened as a smile blossomed and said, "Did you know how long I've been waiting for you to ask?"
Kira suddenly disintegrated and swirled around before forming into Anorak once more.
He leaned down towards me and said, "So you figured out my second clue. At least this time you did it correctly."
I scratched my head awkwardly and said, "I couldn't think of any other way besides this."
Anorak chuckled at my embarrassment and said, "Go on and find my last clue."
He held out his hand towards me before a jade key appeared. I took it and sent it to my inventory as well as grabbed the last clue.
I unfurled the scroll and read, "If you know the answer ultimate, divide it by the number magic, and what you need, want, and desire will be found in the fortress tragic."
Quite ominous at best but I'm pretty sure the last challenge would be hosted in Castle Anorak on Planet Doom Sector 12.
I wondered, "Should I let things develop originally or just win it all for myself? Hmm well me and the girls don't need much money plus I'm sure we'll get a slice of the company for helping. I do want a copy of the OASIS to bring with us but that could be achieved by helping as well. Plus I'm not that obsessed with easter eggs like Parzival. Well that settles it. I'll let the plot go on like the original and help the High Five win. Since we're all friends, I'm sure they won't refuse my request."
With a decision in mind, I left the Shining and got back through the main lobby of the OASIS. Everyone was looking at the scoreboard as my name now had two keys next to it. Not long after, my inbox was bombarded with messages from the High Five along with the girls. Most are asking how I found and beat the second challenge while the others were asking why he never told them.
I smiled at their questions and just responded with the message, "Meet back at the warehouse."
I closed my inbox and left through the main hub portal to connect to my private warehouse. It took a second before I reached our safe zone. Before I could even walk up to the lounge area, the girls came barging through along with the High Five. Daito and Sho had never been to my warehouse and were astounded by the Akatsuki Gundam standing in front of them. The girls and the rest of the High Five ignored the two and went straight to me.
Parzival hurriedly asked, "Vex, how did you figure out the second challenge?!! I've been looking everywhere on how to start."
Parzival's question was in everybody's mind and looked over to me with impatience in their eyes. I coughed in embarrassment as I never let the girls know what I was going to do.
I said to everyone, "I thought everyone was still busy so I went to the Halliday Journals and asked the Curator to see "The Shining." The key to the challenge was Kira. I'm sure Parzival and Ryvel know who I'm talking about. I can only give you a hint. Take the leap."
Seeing I was being cryptic disappointed everyone but at least they got the location of the next challenge.
Parzival and Ryvel got the reference when they heard it was about Kira. They told everyone else that Kira was Karen Underwood, who was Ogden Morrow's wife. Parzival also explained that Halliday and Karen went on a date once before she married Ogden Morrow. To prove their point, he invited everyone to the Halliday Journals while I refused since I already knew about it. I stayed behind the warehouse to rest and relax until it's time for the final battle with IOI.
The following actions were the same except for the addition of the girls. They came straight to Halliday Journals at night but didn't realize they were being monitored by IOI. It gave the High Five the lead along with the girls but they also gave away the location of the second challenge. It didn't take long before countless people were on the scoreboard, thanks to their impatience.
Parzival cursed and complained to the others, "We were too impulsive. Now there's plenty of IOI personnel on the scoreboard. We need to figure out this last clue or else, IOI will take over."
Everyone agreed and thought of many possible test sites but after a few days, they still couldn't find any clue where it could be. During this time, Wade and Samantha's location were discovered by IOI. Wade managed to flee thanks to Samantha's surrender.
F'Nale smirked at her capture and said, "Samantha Evelyn Cook. IOI has purchased and consolidated all of your outstanding debt, currently in excess of 23,000 credits. You will be remanded to the nearest IOI loyalty center until your debt is paid in full, including any interest, processing, or late fees you incur henceforth."
Now Samantha has been captured while Wade was rescued by Toshiro and Shou and Helen. They started to lay low under the cover of night inside Helen's UPS van. This lasted the whole night as they were brainstorming on how to rescue Samantha from IOI.
Similar situations once again happened to the girls but they took care of them like the last time. This time they came after me while I was still relaxing in the suite. It all happened so quickly. There were IOI drones outside my window and IOI troops below. I was sitting on the chair with a calm expression as I drank my wine, overlooking the city.
I sipped the last of my wine before saying, "They finally took action against me. They really are making me want to massacre IOI. Nolan, you're playing a dangerous game."
Before long, a squad of IOI personnel with guns drawn had locked on my being.
They shouted, "Show me your hands!!"
Little did they know, that would be the last words they would utter as the Shadow Knights had mobilized under their feet and dragged them to the Shadow World for disposal. They screamed in silence as their mouths were blocked by the Shadow Knights. Their bodies will be used for feeding the various plants and animals residing inside. As for the IOI drones, they were destroyed by the Shadow Medjays' artillery.
I said in the air, "Anet, I'll leave you with their disposal. Be sure not to destroy the bodies too much. They'll be joining you as your temporary subordinates. Don't let me down, my dear assassin."
Anet was ecstatic that her king was thinking about her. She immediately plunged into the Shadow World to fulfill my order. She couldn't help but think of that night where she spied on her king's love-making and couldn't help but blush at the idea of her king doing the same to her.
She shook her head and drool off her mouth as she focused on the task at hand. As she landed, she immediately went to work. Screams filled the air as bodies of the IOI personnel were dropping like flies as blood spilled along the ground.
Anet thought of her good work and reported, "My King, the deed is done."
I responded to her via telepathy, "Well done."
Before long, I appeared beside Anet and reached out to rub her head. She enjoyed the pampering of her king as she swayed left and right like a cat high on catnip.
I stopped and walked forward before raising my arm towards the recently dead, "Arise."
The Shadow of the dead IOI personnel had risen and kneeled down as they praised, "Thank you for your mercy, my King."
I looked over at Anet and said, "Step forward, Anet."
She stepped forward with a sway of her hips and kneeled, "My King."
I looked over the recently risen Shadows and ordered, "Your new squadron will be following Anet temporarily until a more suitable position is acquired. For now, you obey her orders as if they were mine. She will train you well."
The newly appointed Shadow Squadron stood up and saluted their new commanding officer, "We will serve and protect you, Mistress Anet."
Anet stood beside her king with a gleam in her eyes as she vowed, "I will make sure they will be up to standards, My King."
I patted her shoulder with a smile and said, "I know you will. You've never failed me yet."
Along with that compliment, I left the Shadow World returning to the real world. Unknown to me, Anet was holding her face as she was fantasizing herself under her king's body. Anet was shaking her head left and right while her new squadron had sweat drops behind their heads as they looked at their new superior with worry.
The raid incident ultimately failed and the board of directors in IOI found out through an anonymous tip. They questioned Nolan about his failure and asked for an explanation. Nolan could only appease the board with his plan to get ahead for the third challenge.
After all, they finally have the last clue leading to the final key. Nolan sent most of his Sixers to all the sectors on Planet Doom. It took a day before they finally found the last challenge in Anorak's castle on Sector 12.
Nolan immediately dispatched the whole IOI department to secure the area and make sure no one could get inside. Unfortunately for him, not all information was tight-lipped and it was secretly sold to info brokers. Before long, everyone on OASIS knows IOI found the last challenge and its location. This information was relayed to me and the rest of the High Five.
At this time, Parzival, Aech, Daito and Sho planned to rescue Art3mis from IOI. They hacked Sorrento's rig using the password on the sticky note posted on it when he tried to bribe Parzival. Thanks to their efforts, Art3mis managed to escape but she continued to stay in the war room.
Art3mis told Parzival, "Z, the fortress is protected by something called the Orb of Osuvox. Tell me where Sorrento's rig."
Sho agreed, "She's right. Level 99 magic artifact. It's completely impenetrable and indestructible."
Parzival questioned, "Why? You need to get out of there."
Art3mis replied, "I'm gonna try to take the shield down. And you'll need to raise an army."
Parzival was confused and asked, "An army?.."
He started to message me and the girls to come join them on Planet Doom. The girls responded and will be there soon. I received the message and told them to get ready for a big surprise.
I opened my eyes as I stared at the Akatsuki Gundam in front of me and said, "It's time."
I climbed up the Akatsuki Gundam and sat in the cockpit. I turned on the module and the eyes of the Akatsuki Gundam flashed blue. The various large energy couplings were slowly detaching from the mobile suit. The massive doors above the factory had opened, indicating a clear pathway for departure.
I locked in the coordinates from Parzival and said, "Vex. Akatsuki. Launching!"
I activated the thrusters and flew out of the warehouse and opened the portal to Planet Doom.
On the surface of Planet Doom, a forcefield was seen covering Anorak's Castle in the distance.
Parzival used a global live-stream 8ball and said, "Citizens of the OASIS, I'm Parzival, first to the key. I'm here talking to all of you now because our future's being threatened by people who will stop at nothing to win this contest. Some of you already know this, and you've lost much more than just your avatars or your weapons. Some have lost their freedom. Some have lost their lives. Now this."
The broadcast was shown in front of everyone in the main public areas in the OASIS. As they listened to Parzival's speech, they felt anger towards IOI for trampling the rules and spirit of the Easter Egg contest. The crowd went crazy once they saw the force field and the place they had grown to love and enjoy is under threat of major changes if in the hands of IOI.
Parzival continued, "A force field around the third challenge."
After a brief pause, "I only came here to escape the shitty hand life dealt me. But I stayed, like many of you, because I found something bigger than just myself. I found a cause. I found my friends. And yes, I know it's kind of a groaner, but... I found love. And I don't want to lose to this colossal douchebag, Nolan Sorrento! He thinks we're all too distracted to even notice... Nolan Sorrento thinks that we won't put up a fight. The only thing Halliday taught this guy was to get him a cup of coffee. And now, we're supposed to hand him the OASIS? Well, I say he's wrong. I say, tell that to the gunter clans in the gold mines of Gygax. Ask yourselves, are you willing to zero out for the OASIS? Are you willing to fight?"
The camera panned out to show Parzival, Sho, and the Iron Giant piloted by Aech with Anorak's castle behind them. A portal behind opened to see Ryvel, KiaraNyan, Faythe, and Thing walking towards Parzival and the others.
Parzival continued, "I am Parzival of the High Ten. In the name of Art3mis, in the name of Aech, in the name of Daito and Sho, in the name of Ryvel, in the name of KiaraNyan, in the name of Faythe, in the name of Thing, and last of all, in the name of Vex."
Once my name was mentioned, plenty of eyes widened as they all heard of the living Death was a scourge in the dark world of the OASIS. They all fell silent as if they were thrown into an ice cave. Many of them were hunted by Vex. They all felt hopelessness facing Vex as they were being hunted. Many had tried to find out if he was clanned up to pull in their group. Never did they imagine he was part of the raider clan to finish Halliday's Easter Egg.
Parzival raised his arm to the air and asked, "We ask you to join us on Planet Doom. In the name of James Halliday himself, help us save the OASIS."
Many had put aside their differences and planned to join this epic battle of proportions. A few thousand to hundreds of thousands of players teleported to Planet Doom to offer their support.
One person shouted, "For Halliday! For the OASIS!!"
Once one person shouted, the rest followed like dominos. An overwhelming wave of avatars were rushing towards Planet Doom. Some players went to organize their clans while the others planned to bring in the big guns such as their giant robots and mobile suits to battle.
Ryvel and the girls were watching the empty field after Parzival finished his speech.
KiaraNyan asked, "You think they'll come?"
Ryvel answered, "Never underestimate people once their sense of belonging is under threat."
Nolan was inside Anorak's Castle chuckling at the empty field where Parzival and the High Ten were standing. He walked away from the balcony before a tremble could be heard from the distance. A tide of players could be seen running towards the castle.
Nolan was instantly anxious and murmured, "No, no, no, no..."
I-R0k put his hands on Nolan's shoulders and said, "No man is a failure who has friends."
Nolan scoffed and shook off I-R0k's hands before growling in frustration.
KiaraNyan looked at the amount of people that came and gasped, "There's sooo many people!!"
Faythe smirked and said, "Humans are so interesting~"
The girls readied their weapons and shot towards the force field along with the other players. Parzival held up an old school beat box playing "We're Not Gonna Take it" by the Twisted Sister.
Countless projectiles littered the force field yet could not get through. Nolan and I-R0k were watching the horde of players. IOI soldiers were ready to respond in case they broke through.
Nolan asked, "I-R0k, how long can this shield last?"
I-R0k nonchalantly said, "I don't know. Give it about...a few thousand years?"
They never noticed that Art3mis was sneaking around the IOI personnel. Outside the force field, players were still trying to get through. KiaraNyan and Faythe noticed Ryvel was missing. They probably thought that she was trying to damage the force field like them and paid no mind after.
Unfortunately to the girls' speculations, Ryvel was on the side of Castle Anorak holding a peculiar dagger. It is an iridescent and jagged dagger that looks thin, brittle, and blunt. It was called the Rule Breaker from the Fate World Sector. Ryvel spent some time acquiring this dagger for its magic nullification properties.
It directly returns anything maintained by magical energies to before it was made, thus rendering said object useless. With one stab, the force field maintained by the Orb of Osuvox immediately disintegrated. This very action left I-R0k confused and Nolan angered to the extreme.
Nolan roared, "I-R0k!! Didn't you say the barrier would hold?! What do you call this?!!!"
I-R0k was shocked and said, "I honestly don't know, Nolan. This is nothing short of a miracle. Nothing is supposed to break the barrier but I guess I was wrong."
Nolan angrily said, "Nevermind! I'll do it myself. If you're gonna do something right, I have to do it myself."
Nolan ordered his IOI personnel to immediately attack the incoming wave of players while respawned personnel take defensive positions around the castle.
Seeing the force field go down, Parzival shouted, "First to key!!!"
The other players shouted, "First to the egg!!!"
The players started to attack with more fervor as they unleashed their bullets, slashes, and ordinance onto the approaching IOI personnel. Waves of attacks swarm the battlefield as Parzival drives his DeLorean to reach Anorak's Castle. Along the way, other players were paving a way for Parzival but the battlefield was too crowded to make significant progress.
Art3mis inside the castle wasn't idle either. She was baffled when the barrier went down. She was on the way to disable it herself after grabbing the incantation from Nolan's rig. She just shook her head and went to see what the third challenge was. As she went deeper in the castle, she saw a single IOI soldier playing "Adventure" on an old school console within an ice cavern.
Art3mis muttered under her voice, "Adventure?"
She hightailed it outside and tried to find Parzival to tell him the news.
Meanwhile Nolan ran to the front of the castle along with IOI personnel. Angry at the people of the OASIS, he sneered and opened his inventory before scrolling down to find his ultimate weapon, Mecha-Godzilla.
Nolan threw down the item as it continued to morph under him as the towering figure immediately fell before everyone's eyes. In addition to the Mecha-Godzilla, Nolan also brought the old Zaku mobile suits he bought off from mechanics and other players. IOI troops manned the Zakus as they fired their ammunition towards the players. It caused chaos for a while as players were being zero-ed out.
Parzival had already met up with Art3mis as they were shocked and deeply demoralized.
Art3mis dejectedly shouted, "Mecha-Godzilla! And Zakus! IOI really pulled out all the stops for this."
Just as Mecha-Godzilla and the Zakus were about to lay havoc on the battlefield, a green laser hit one of the Zakus from above. It exploded into pieces and halted Nolan's advance. All the players look up to see a golden light speeding down from space.
A golden mobile suit hovered in mid-air with a beam rifle pointed at the Zakus. Accompanying me was a squadron of various starships. It was the first debut of the Akatsuki Gundam and whoever was live-streaming the battle naturally saw this and broadcasted it to the whole OASIS.
The audience watching the live-streams were shocked to see a golden mobile suit. One would think the amount of coins to make that mobile suit would be astronomical as well as acquiring the special parts that could only be rewarded in special missions.
One player said, "Whoa!! So handsome~ I want a mobile suit like that~"
His friend slapped the back of his head and rebuked, "Dream on!! I'm getting one just like it, not you."
Both friends started fighting out of jealousy. Similar responses echoed through the plaza while people in the battlefield exclaimed, "That's the Akatsuki Gundam."
Daito opened his eyes and said, "Magnificent."
Ryvel and the girls said, "Vex is here!!"
Inside the cockpit of the Akatsuki Gundam, I broadcasted my voice over the battlefield, "Parzival, head for the castle. Ryvel, you and the girls should go as well. I'll take care of Nolan and the Zakus."
The eyes of the Akatsuki Gundam glowed bright as I shot my beam rifle towards Mecha-Godzilla and the Zakus. A few shots hit Nolan while the Zakus had varying damage such as scrapped arms or legs, rendering them almost useless. A barrage of shots from the starships helped out as it turned into a space battle on the battlefield.
Parzival, Art3mis, and Sho rushed to the castle but I-R0k was waiting for them. He blew up the bridge with the explosives planted in advance by people IOI captured in their loyalty centers. Aech, who was controlling the Iron Giant, used herself as a bridge for the others to cross.
Ryvel was aiming for SRS99 on I-R0k. KiaraNyan and Faythe were providing suppressive fire to keep IOI off Parzival and their team. I-R0k fired his blaster rifle and shot one of the fingers of the Iron Giant while Parzival, Art3mis and Sho were crossing over.
Ryvel finally took a shot and said, "What a pathetic man."
The shot completely killed I-R0k's avatar, making him burst into coins. The amount was much less than the time I killed him but it still piled up a small hill due to completing Nolan's contracts since then.
KiaraNyan shouted, "Nice shot, Ryvel~!"
Ryvel smirked at her kill and said, "Nothing special."
Parzival and the rest of them finally got through to the main plaza where IOI personnel were holding the line.
Back to the battlefield, beams of light were seen bombarding enemy Zakus. The Akatsuki Gundam was shuttling back and forth to dodge and shoot incoming missiles. The High Beam Cannons instantly destroyed the Zakus to pieces.
I looked over to the entrance to see the girls pass by I-R0k and thought, "I guess I didn't have to worry about them too much."
I controlled the Akatsuki Gundam to confront the Mecha-Godzilla. At the moment, Daito has been keeping Mecha-Godzilla with the artifact he got during an artifact hunt. He is currently transformed as the RX-78-2 Gundam. Thankfully I managed to stagger the Mecha-Godzilla in time before Daito ran out of time since he only had two minutes before turning back to normal.
I cut off one of Mecha-Godzilla's arms with the beam saber and shot the left leg with the beam rifle.
I floated in front of the downed Mecha-Godzilla and taunted, "Oh Nolan. With all your scheming, you still failed in the end. You don't think that your crimes will never see the light of day right? You made a huge mistake when you sent those teams against my women. Hide while you can, you pathetic rat."
I pointed the High Beam Cannons on him before bombarding the Mecha-Godzilla with righteous fury. Nolan inside exploded alongside the Mecha-Godzilla as it created a mushroom cloud that could be seen by everyone on the battlefield.
Nolan gasped as he took off his gear and stepped out of his office. Looking around the war room, he urged them all to respawn quickly but unbeknownst to Nolan, the players had already taken a hold of key areas of Castle Anorak.
The portals for respawn are destroyed on IOI's side and they can only respawn away from the battlefield, giving the players the much needed ground advantage. Unfortunately for Nolan, as soon as he got into his office, he mysteriously vanished, baffling his usual team coordinators following him. Soon news of Nolan's disappearance reached the ears of IOI's higher-ups and took over to continue Nolan's plan for the last key.
When Nolan vanished, Igris had informed me telepathically that the mission was a success. I smiled in triumph as I piloted the Akatsuki Gundam to continue wreaking havoc against IOI heavy machines. Ryvel and the girls made it to the final challenge along with Parzival, Art3mis, and Sho after dealing with the IOI personnel. They saw the IOI soldier win the game "Adventure" but his celebration stopped short before falling into the icy hole.
An all-wide OASIS broadcast was being played as if Halliday was responsible for it.
Parzival hurriedly went to the console and put the "Adventure" game on and said, "The way to find the last key is not to win. There's a secret in Adventure and you don't find it by winning. You blindly play, searching around in rooms for an invisible dot. Take the dot back to the main screen and that's when you find the first Easter egg ever put in a video game. The creator's name."
As he completed the third challenge, the ice cracked beneath the console. Everyone steps back as the entire ice cracked as bits of snow swirled around before Anorak appeared before them once more. Anorak held out the Crystal Key to Parzival. As he reached for the key, he suddenly fell to the ground in confusion. Parzival tried again before stumbling down again. This action confused Anorak.
Anorak looked at the downed Parzival and asked, "Do you want it or not?"
Parzival hurriedly asked, "Aech, what the hell's going on?!"
Aech responded loudly, "Just practicing my Mario Kart. What do you think?!! IOI's trying to kill us, man!!"
F'Nale and her squad were using their cars to bump Aech's van to cause it to stop. Thanks to Aech's driving skills, they were unsuccessful aside from the initial bumps that tumbled everyone in the van.
Parzival focused back and finally grabbed the Crystal Key. Once in hand, the surrounding area shifted as the ice rose to below revealing a Crystal Ice Door with three key holes.
He stopped and made an announcement, "Everyone watching, if you're in the Columbus stacks, this is Parzival. My real-world name is Wade Watts, and we're gonna need your help."
He shouted, "Aech, head for the stacks!"
Seeing the Parzival's announcement, I messaged the girls that I would pick them up soon before logging off. I readied myself and left the suite through the Shadow Portal. Locating the girls was easy as they were shadow-marked by me before they left.
I picked up Wednesday first in Japan. Seeing the colorful and vibrant neon colors, it seemed like this was Shibuya at night. Countless people were dressed in fashionable styles all around. I can see the famous Shibuya 109 as well as the Shibuya Crossing.
I thought, "I forgot how I enjoyed this place in past life. Good times. Wednesday should be around here."
I followed the shadow marker before I saw Wednesday leaning against the railing. She is dressed in a dark, almost black streetwear attire consisting of a long-sleeved top resembling a dress, a laced-up bodice, and a skirt, all in a dark color.
The style was heavily accessorized, with various dark-colored accessories like belts and chains on the outfit. Her dark hair was cut in a hime-style while the back was tied in a bun. Her eyes were teeming with power as it changed her eyes from black to light blue, showcasing the stored psychic energy.
I appreciated the new look on Wednesday and thought, "Looks like she had a new makeover. Travelling and staying over here in Japan really influenced her style."
I walked over to surprise her but Wednesday felt my presence and smirked, "Miss me, Mi Amor?"
I smiled and took her by the waist and said, "I always do, Mi Cuervo."
I leaned in to kiss her tender lips as my warmth, enveloped Wednesday. She had to admit that she missed this feeling very much but her journey to venture definitely helped broaden her horizons.
New places meant new experiences. Even now, her style has changed due to the fashion trends here in Shibuya and Harajuku. Her make-up and haircut were good examples of that influence. She quite enjoyed the new look and from the way I was all over her, she'd say that it was a good change. But it wasn't only her style that changed but also her mentality in approaching situations.
She mastered her psychic abilities with the help of Goody and her own revelations. She even managed to re-create some psychic powers from the anime and manga here in Japan. Plenty of references to comb through for trial and error.
One such example was Psychokinesis, the power to control any and all matter with her mind. The target of her reference was Tatsumaki from the manga, "One Punch Man." Though not as strong as her, she's still able to lift heavier objects like a fridge, a car, or a boulder.
After separating their kiss, Wednesday said, "You'll be surprised what I could do now."
Wednesday's eyes glowed light blue as an outline covered her body before she floated in front of me.
I looked over in surprise and mumbled, "Amazing~"
Wednesday heard my compliment and let out a small smile before gently landing. She came to my side before resting her head on my chest as if to claim its territory. I smiled and stroked her back as Wednesday hummed in response.
Wednesday looked up at me and said, "We should get going. I'm sure the others would like to see you as well."
I smiled before I opened the Shadow Portal to Enid and Nitocris. We stepped through and left Japan with no issues. It only took a few minutes before both me and Wednesday appeared in Santorini, Greece. The turquoise waters shimmer with a golden glow as the sun was setting.
The white buildings around the islands were bathing in its glow. The wind slowly passes our bodies gently. I took Wednesday's slender hand and walked towards Enid's and Nitocris' location.
It didn't take long to find them since they found us first. Enid was rushing towards me as she jumped on me and clamped her legs around my waist and kissed my face. Wednesday just gave a deadpanned look at Enid and greeted Nitocris in the distance.
Enid finished kissing my face and excitedly said, "Y/N, I missed you sooo much!! Did you miss me?"
I held Enid and kissed her small cherry lips gently and said, "I've missed you plenty, Enid. Did you have fun going around the world?"
Enid was still engrossed from the kiss before mumbling, "Mhmm.. it was wonderful."
I put Enid down before pecking her forehead and walked over to Nitocris and Wednesday. I opened my arms to Nitocris to which she gently hugged me. She pressed herself in a comfortable position before kissing me.
I said to Nitocris, "So what do you think of this world? You and Enid did travel around for a while."
Nitocris looked me in the eyes and said, "The world is so different from back then. Perhaps there was more mysticism in the past but the future can be equally entertaining. And it was great having Enid with me, despite her curious nature. I did teach her some more combat skills and the use of my army. But she'll be more proficient with time."
I smiled and replied, "Aha I'm glad you've enjoyed yourselves and thank you. She can be a handful sometimes but the company is always entertaining."
I let go of Nitocris and said to everyone, "We should get going and meet up with Parzival and the rest. I'm sure it'll be a good meeting since we haven't met them yet in real life."
They nodded and agreed as I opened the Shadow Gate to a secluded corner of the Columbus Stacks. The moment we passed through, there were plenty of people rushing towards Wade's previous home. Some had banners while others rushed from their workplace. The people of the Stacks are truly united after knowing one of their own just found the last key to the contest.
A moment later, a van finally made it through but it was rammed by an IOI armored truck. The van spun out of control before coming into a complete stop. The person who hopped out of the IOI armored vehicle was F'Nale. She was holding a pistol and started to head towards the van before the people blocked her way.
One man said, "You wanna get there? You have to go through me."
Another woman said, "And me."
A kid also joined and said, "And me."
One by one, the people of the Stacks blocked F'Nale's way to Aech's van but she only held the pistol up in the air.
F'Nale cursed, "I don't have time for this. Now move or get shot!"
The crowd gasped before slowly making way for her albeit very slowly. No one wanted to be shot, much less be killed. They could only watch as F'Nale slowly made her way to Aech's van.
Wednesday saw the situation and asked me, "Looks like they're in trouble. Are you going to step in, Mi Amor? Or should we wait for the police?"
I reassured Wednesday, "I'll take care of it. I'm sure this person would kill them if she gets the chance."
I rushed towards the crowd and before long, I grabbed hold of F'Nale's wrist and threw her down on the ground. She shouted in pain as she hit the muddy ground and released the gun she was brandishing.
I made sure to keep the gun out of her reach and put her hands behind her back until authorities arrived. The crowd cheered when I took her down, giving Parzival enough time to collect the Golden Egg from Halliday's AI.
Halliday turned to Parzival and said, "Goodbye Parzival. Thanks for playing my game."
Wade was crying silently as he took off his eye piece and looked towards Samantha, Helen, Sho, and Toshiro.
Samantha came forward and wiped Wade's tears away before hugging him for comfort. Police sirens are heard from outside startling the crew inside. Helen opened the back doors of the van before a crowd of applause and shoutings, congratulating Wade on winning Halliday's Easter Egg Hunt.
Among the people waiting was Ogden Morrow. He hurried to the Stacks after knowing Parzival won the last key. It was a miracle he managed to arrive at the Stacks with lawyers from Gregarious Games minutes before I subdued F'Nale. Thankfully the police managed to arrive and arrest F'Nale for suspected homicide and intent to kill.
Wade and the rest were shocked and confusedly asked, "Ogden Morrow?!"
Ogden smiled and said, "You can call me Og. Now a particular set of people would like to see you."
Ogden called the lawyers over but Wade was confused and asked, "Who–who are they?"
Ogden clarified, "People you need right now–lawyers. They need your signature."
Wade took the contract and looked around his friends and said, "I'm splitting it with the clan. All of us."
Ogden teared up as he saw the past friendship between him and Halliday back then in them and choked as he said, "That's a good choice."
They stepped out and walked through the crowd. Helen was seen talking to the police about what happened during the chase for the alleged murder attempt on their lives. Toshiro and Sho were busy doing autographs and taking pictures from their fans. Samantha was following behind Wade, who was talking with Ogden Morrow a little bit ahead.
Wade awkwardly said, "Mr. Morrow.. I mean, Og, how'd you get here so fast?"
Og jokingly said, "I flew from the stars on my magic sleigh. Haha everyone's been watching. Of course, I've been watching a little closer than most."
Og pulls out a quarter and flips it into the air while Wade caught it. Og walked ahead a little before Wade's eyes widened at Og's hidden character.
Wade surprisingly asked, "You? You're the Curator?"
Og turned to Wade as he held his stomach and imitated his Curator voice, "Well played, Parzival."
Og continued in his normal voice, "Jim told me nothing about the contest, so there was no rule about me losing a bet to a smart kid. Not that you needed my help. You figured out that Kira was the key on your own."
Wade hurriedly came up and corrected him and said, "Yeah, but... Kira wasn't the key. It was you, Mr. Morrow. You were the Rosebud. And Halliday's biggest regret was losing his only friend."
Og took a heavy breath as his eyes teared up but held it together and patted Wade's shoulder and said, "You know, Jim used to say the OASIS was never supposed to be a one-player game."
In the distance, I was talking with Wednesday and the girls. Enid poked me multiple times to point at Wade and the others.
Enid proposed, "Oh oh oh we should introduce ourselves, hunny~! I'm sure they'll be so surprised to see us here too."
Wednesday also said, "Agreed. It should finally be a good chance to finally get acquainted in real-life."
Nitocris followed, "After everything, this would be a welcome sight to be a part of."
I smiled and walked over with the girls to Wade and the rest of the High Ten.
Samantha noticed us walking over with confusion in her face and thought, "Who are they?"
Og looked at the approaching people and smiled as he turned to Wade and said, "Looks like your friends are here too."
Wade and the rest were confused by Og's sentence and asked, "Who?"
They all looked at us with a questioning gaze before I said, "What's with those faces? You don't recognize us? Think hard."
Wade and the rest struck thinking poses as if their mind collided like a thought bubble. Various people went through their mind before finally settling on the rest of their clan.
The thought bubble popped and they screamed, "You're Vex!!... then that means they're..."
Enid spread her arms out and happily said, "And I'm KiaraNyan!! The one wearing all black is Ryvel and the one wearing the dress is Faythe. Ta-da!!"
Wednesday cut in, "Enid, you didn't even introduce yourself besides our avatar's name."
Enid stuck her tongue out and joked, "I know Wednesday. I know~ I was just having fun. Anyways hi guys! I'm Enid."
Wednesday just rolled her eyes and dully introduced, "I'm Wednesday and this is Thing."
As she pointed to her shoulders, Wade and the others looked at the severed hand with shock in their faces.
Wade and others asked, "Where's the rest of him?!"
Wednesday smirked as she said, "It's one of the great Addams mysteries. Don't worry, he can understand you."
As if on cue, Thing gave an "ok" gesture towards the crew. Wade and his friends along with Og just shook their heads on how an appendage can think and understand them.
Nitocris elegantly walked and said, "My name is Nitocris. I was Faythe in the OASIS. A pleasure to make your acquaintance."
From Nitocris' mannerisms, Wade and the others felt a certain regality in her presence as if it was ingrained in her bones. They all thought she must've been a descendent of an aristocrat. Not that they mind since the OASIS are a haven for all kinds of people.
Then they looked towards me and were shocked as they never expected me to be a tall and slender figure with broad shoulders and a strong chest like a model to be the legendary Vex.
I introduced myself, "It's nice to meet you, Wade. My name is Y/N Ashborn. Congratulations on winning the whole contest."
Wade laughed awkwardly at the congratulations and said, "I couldn't have done it without everyone's help. I plan to have everyone have a share of the winnings."
I held my hand up for him to shake and said, "Thank you Wade. But instead of taking a share, can you do me a favor?"
Wade was confused along with everyone present and asked, "What is it?"
I smirked and said, "Can you provide a copy of the OASIS along with the computers and servers in a secure building? It would be great to have the blueprints for manufacturing the visors to log in to the OASIS."
Og stepped in and asked, "What do you plan on doing with a copy of the OASIS? I cannot, in good faith, just authorize a complete copy."
Wednesday and the girls looked at me, chuckling at my need to grab something unique from the worlds they visit and the OASIS is the core concept in this world. It's not wrong for me to ask for a copy. Wade and the others were also surprised at the sudden request but waited for my answer in anticipation.
I simply answered, "Now that would be telling. I can only tell you after you all sign the contract for those shares. Until then, I will keep it a secret since it is very confidential. Of course, I'm sure everyone will have an interesting change of outlook."
Wade and the others just fell down comic-style for my answer. They quickly got up and brushed off any dirt they had on their clothes.
Og sighed and said, "All right. We can talk more about this later. For now, you all should celebrate this victory."
Wade and the rest cheered as a party was held at a nearby hotel. Everyone had a wonderful time with food and drinks. Attendants were around to serve the food and clean up after us. It wasn't until near dawn that the party ended and the other went to bed in their individual hotel rooms they opened up.
It was near noon when I woke up in a huge bed with Wednesday, Enid, and Nitocris on my body. Clothes were littered on the ground while bottles of liquor and cold food were on the table. There were various marks all over my body as well as fingernail marks on my back and chest.
I gently took off their arms and legs on my body to avoid waking them up. I went to take a shower and get ready for the day. The hot water drenching my body as if clearing all the fatigue from last night's escapade.
Immersed in the steaming showers, I thought, "It's almost time to leave. I really hope the next world is interesting like this one. A little break from the excitement back in the Mummy World here was a good choice."
After drying myself, I walked out of the shower before I saw a yellow flash past me. I then heard puking sounds right after. I poked my head in to see Enid hubbled over the toilet, heaving from all the alcohol she drank last night.
I shook my head before rubbing her back to calm her down. I levitated a glass of water along with a couple tablets of Tums to alleviate her discomfort.
I said, "There there... get it all out. Are you feeling a little better?"
Enid took the water and Tums as her stomach settled down. Enid flashed me a tiny smile as thanks.
I got outside and saw Wednesday writing her story on her typewriter while only covered with a blanket on her. Nitocris was still snoring on the bed for being too crazy last night. I shook my head before making a quad for Wednesday. The smell of fresh roasted coffee filled the room and slowly awakened Nitocris from her slumber.
After pouring a cup, Nitocris woke up and yawned, "Good morning..."
I gently scratched her head as she leaned towards my head in satisfaction.
I greeted back, "Good morning, my little goddess. Sleep well?"
All I got was a hum and peck on my cheek before hopping into the showers. I chuckled and shook my head before placing the Quad next to Wednesday. She stopped typing before standing up and kissing my lips despite her naked appearance. Such trivial things don't matter to her nor mine. She thanked me before taking a sip of her Quad and sitting back down.
I reminded Wednesday, "Don't forget that we'll have a meeting with everyone at our place later on. Pretty sure their worldview will explode after today. We'll be leaving this world in a week."
Wednesday looked up at my eyes and said, "We'll get ready soon. Don't overwork yourself, Mi Amor. I know you know this already but we all appreciate your hard work and love you put towards us. Thank you for coming into our lives."
I smiled as Wednesday tiptoed and left a passionate kiss on me before also heading to the shower.
I walked out to the balcony before looking over the horizon and murmured, "Our next adventure will start soon. I wonder where we'll end up."
It was around 3pm when we all left the hotel and did our own things to pass time. I sent Wednesday to Japan through the Dimensional Wall to grab any necessities they could such as food and clothing. Enid and Nitocris joined Wednesday as well to pass time in Japan.
In the meantime, I raided several more places from places along North East Asia. From Japan, a military dock with an aircraft carried along with a couple of ships were transferred into the Shadow World. From the Korean Peninsula, a piece of land near the demilitarized zone was directly taken, leading to investigations from both sides.
From China, I took over Mount Huaguo to the Shadow World, further increasing the land space inside. It was mostly a desire to collect due to playing, "Black Myth: Wukong." From Russia, I took a piece of Siberia to facilitate a winter land inside. And it all took just a few hours to make the world chaotic for a bit.
I sat near Mount Yoshino and said, "All done. The cherry blossoms look wonderful, even though it was not their blooming time."
Japan's agricultural technology has advanced to be used for ripening the growth of cherry blossoms and various fruit trees. So various seeds along with fruit trees were taken and transplanted inside the Shadow World.
I thought, "I hope they bear fruits with magical properties. The Pool of Eternal Life is still providing waters throughout the whole Shadow World. Well anyways, it's time to pick up the girls and head back to meet with Wade and the rest."
I waved my hand as a grey-looking wall that constantly fluctuates appeared in front of me before walking inside. The Dimensional Wall closed shortly after.
I stepped out of the Dimensional Wall near Shibuya 109, where we made sure to meet up. I waited ten minutes before I saw the girls. They had a complete makeover and it definitely fit each one of them in Shibuya Style aesthetics.
Wednesday's outfit design focuses on sheer fabric, visible through the sleeves and skirt, combined with structured black pieces like high-waisted shorts and a corset-style belt. The outfit is accessorized with garters, black stockings, and lace-up boots, adding a gothic touch.
Enid's hair was grown out to a long, wavy hair in a mix of black and vibrant pink, styled with cat ears, adding a feline touch. She wears a white blouse with puffed sleeves, paired with a black skirt that has a frilly, layered appearance. The outfit is accessorized with a black belt featuring a garter-style harness and a bag with cute, gothic embellishments.
Nitocris wears a dull pink and black outfit with a layered, detailed structure. The top features delicate lace and pattern details, while the skirt is short with a pleated design, tied together with accessories that include straps and a belt. The look is complete with knee-high stockings and platform shoes.
I walked towards them and praised, "You three look amazing."
Wednesday smirked while Enid and Nitocris giggled.
Wednesday also commented, "You look handsome, Mi Amor."
I thanked her and opened the Dimensional Wall to our suite. I held Wednesday's slender hand and walked through with Enid and Nitocris in tow. The whole suite was the same as I had left it. All the girls smelled the manly fragrance all across the suite and shades of red appeared on their faces. They shook their heads and fanned themselves to calm down.
I settled down on the couch and called Wade and the rest to come by my place. They never would've thought that I lived so close in the center of the city. The girls had finally settled in and talked to me about their day.
They also found some news of the chaos I caused while they were preparing. Wednesday laughed at the sheer chaos I could do in a matter of hours while Enid and Nitocris just shook their heads at my ability.
Half an hour passed before the doorbell rang. Enid went to the door to greet our guests. When she opened it, Wade and the rest of the High Ten were there along with Ogden Morrow. They all came to the living room to see me, Wednesday, and Nitocris chatting and laughing.
Wade waved, "Hey Y/N, nice place you got here."
I turned to Wade and chuckled as I said, "I could say the same to you. You are after all a billionaire now. How does it feel to have all this money and power over a majority of the people in the world?"
Wade was instantly stumped and the others laughed at his posture. They all thought of being rich one day and spending lavishly but now that they had it, they couldn't figure out what to do with so much. It will take some time for their mindset to change but not too much to not forget their roots before they became rich.
Samantha stepped forward to help Wade and replied on his behalf, "It's not as easy as we thought, Y/N. But we'll take one step at a time together."
Wade and the other immediately perked up while I gave them a small smile. I motioned them to take a seat wherever they wanted.
Once everyone was seated, I seriously spoke, "Now that you're all here, I'll tell you the reason why I needed this to be private. First of all, we don't belong to this world. We came from a different world from this one. We are world-travellers, who walk through different worlds and dimensions. To remember the worlds we have been to, I take something unique in each world. In your case, it is the OASIS. You follow me so far?"
All of the High Ten excluding my girls as well as Ogden Morrow looked at me as if I was crazy.
Wade hurriedly asked, "Y/N, are you ok?! Did you hit your head or something? Do we need to go to the hospital?!"
The rest of the High Ten expressed their concerns as well while my girls were giggling. Ogden Morrow looked at me with skepticism.
I sighed, "It seems like you won't believe me until I show you proof."
I raised my hand but that only confused everyone until the Shadow Knights emerged from the shadows. This very action startled everyone who thought I was crazy.
Samantha was baffled at the display and muttered, "W-wha.. huh.. t-that?!"
Nitocris shook her head at their adaptation skills and thought, "And here I thought they would adjust quickly considering how the OASIS is."
I motioned the Shadow Knights to stand behind me as well as guard the door. Igris, Mathayus, and Anet were standing on my sides to guard me as generals. Anet took her chance to cling to my arm, annoying Wednesday, Enid, and Nitocris.
Anet just stuck out her tongue at them as she rubbed her cheek on my arm like a puppy. Igris and Mathayus just shook their heads and pulled Anet off me. Wednesday and the girls gave their thanks to the both of them, in response.
I just sat back in a comfortable position and said, "Believe me now?"
They all mechanically nodded, still in disbelief that their outlook on life had been shattered.
Og asked, "Are they alive?"
I looked at Ogden and said, "In a sense. So can my request be granted?"
Wade and them looked at each other and then to Ogden Morrow before nodding and replied, "We can give you a copy of the OASIS along with the necessary servers to run it."
I clapped my hands and said, "Perfect! Now to show my gratitude, here are some bottled waters for you."
A few bottles of water appeared on the table for each of them. They all grabbed one looking at the ordinary water bottles.
To ease their confusion, I explained, "Those are not just any water inside those bottles. The water inside comes from the Pool of Eternal Life. It contains properties that could repair damage from your body with a single drop and it can also provide you with an extra fifty years of lifespan. What you do with them is yours to decide. Just know that this will be the only thing I will leave you with for our friendship. I do hope you know to keep this a secret, otherwise you'll have a bloodbath in your hands."
Another bombshell just exploded in front of them. What they have in their hands can easily progress humanity if they crack the formula. Countless people would swarm for the chance to extend their lives, especially those rich people who are in their deathbeds.
Ogden Morrow opened the bottle and took a small sip. He believed what I told them and if it's right, he could theoretically be young again. The effects of the water took a moment to see its effects. His grey hair had turned light brown with bits of gray left and his wrinkles had disappeared along with any ailments he had. He felt as if he was ten years younger.
I motioned a Shadow Knight to bring Odgen a mirror for him to see. The moment Og looked at the mirror, his eyes immediately teared up as his youthful look made think back during the time he and Halliday were developing the OASIS long ago. Wade and the others also looked in shock before they all looked at the water bottles as priceless treasure.
I chuckled at their expressions and talked about our previous world experiences. They made sure to grab some food and drinks as me and the girls narrated. It wasn't until past midnight that we stopped and everyone had to go home. This storytelling party lasted for a week since I had to wait for the copy of the entire OASIS. I also left my suite to the High Ten to do with as they please.
All of us were on the rooftop of the suite we're on. I gave some advice to Wade and the rest of them if they would shut down the OASIS for a couple of days. I would recommend only one day like Sunday or Wednesday, so it won't impact the world economy since everything is being funnelled through the OASIS.
I looked over to everyone and said, "Well I guess this is goodbye for now. Maybe in the future, we'll meet again."
Wade stepped forward and put forward his hand as he said, "Haha have a safe journey. We'll be here when you come back."
I shook his hand before going back to the girls and asked, "Are you all ready?"
Wednesday said, "Ready."
Thing gave a thumbs up. Enid jumped in the air in excitement while Nitocris smirked in acknowledgement.
I opened the World Portal as it would lead to a new world. All of us had walked inside before the portal slowly closed behind them.