[Your Demonic Trueheart is ready for harvest!]
>>>>
Looking at the unique bush-like plant in front of him, which stood about a meter tall with thick foliage, Theo's eyes settled on a lone white berry. He didn't need the [Darkreaper's Scythe] to harvest it.
As he gently plucked the trueheart fruit from its perch, a tiny crimson particle began to emerge from the spot it once occupied. This minute particle seemed to take notice of Theo, and like a shooting star, darted towards him, colliding with his chest. Instantly, a barrage of notifications appeared before him.
<<<<
[You've successfully harvested 1 Trueheart berry!]
[You've collected 184 Ring Essence points.]
[You've absorbed 184 Ring Essence points.]
[Ring Power strengthened by 184 points.]
[Ring Power is at 175/175 points.]
[Your Second ring has evolved to Rank 4!]
[You've reached Circle Rank 14.]
[You have received 3 free stat points.]
[Your Demonic Farm has advanced to Level 14.]
[You have unlocked an additional acre of land.]
[Ring Power is at 78/200 points.]
>>>>
Reaching Circle Rank 14 was a significant achievement. Before this, his ring power stood at 69/175.
Over the past six days, he'd planted Abyssal Delight Berries, Mistgrenade Shrub, and VigorVita Coconut. These were new seeds he'd purchased from the [Buy] section of the Auction House, which had become accessible as he leveled up.
<<<<
[Mistgrenade Shrub]
[~ This enchanting plant produces small grenade-like fruits. Upon tapping and throwing, these fruits release a dense fog, obscuring vision for a short period. Ideal for creating diversions or evading detection.]
[VigorVita Coconut]
[~ Resembling an ordinary coconut, this offers refreshing water and nourishing meat. Drinking the water or consuming its flesh boosts stamina and aids in its recovery. Its effects last for two hours and don't stack, ensuring no risk of overconsumption. Perfect for those in need of a quick energy boost.]
>>>>
While the level-up brought him joy, Theo's attention remained fixated on the Trueheart berry. He traced the surface of the berry with his fingers. It felt soft under his touch, and surprisingly cold.
With the berry in his grasp, Theo cast a portal and stepped into his room before going to the Grand hall. He called Elena from her room and gestured for her to sit on the sofa.
Lilith, already seated beside Theo, was giving icy glances towards Elena.
“Here, this is for you.” He placed the white berry on the table.
Elena looked at it with curiosity. “What is this, Master?”
“It’s an enchanted fruit. I’ll explain more after you eat it,” Theo replied.
After a moment of hesitation, Elena picked up the berry. She glanced nervously between Theo and Lilith, both of whom watched her intently, then consumed the fruit.
For a moment, nothing happened, and Theo's shoulders slumped in disappointment, looking downwards at the ground and entertaining different thoughts. It seemed as though she had intended to betray him.
However, just as he was about to lose hope, a nudge from Lilith made him look towards her. Following her gaze, his eyes brightened.
Elena was enveloped in a radiant white light that encircled her like a spiraling chain, gradually shaping into a crescent-shaped crimson moon that then condensed into a mark on her wrist. Theo felt a sharp sting on his own wrist and, glancing down, discovered an identical mark.
Notifications began popping up before him, confirming the bond Elena and he now shared.
<<<<
[Elena Mistwood has become your First Trueheart.]
[A unique bond has been established between you and Elena Mistwood.]
[A shared mark appears on both your wrists, visible only to Truehearts.]
[This bond strengthens the loyalty Elena Mistwood feels toward you.]
>>>
He breathed a sigh of relief, even happier now that he knew she had no intention of betraying him. Her loyalty had been genuine all along, as proven by the trueheart berry effect manifesting on her.
Elena's face was filled with confusion as she looked at the mark on her wrist and remembered the light that had enveloped her. “What was that, Master?”
“It’s from the Trueheart berry. Once consumed, it ensures you can’t betray me or reveal any of my secrets... If the seal hadn’t activated, it would have meant you weren't truly loyal to me. And if that had been the case, she would've taken your life,” Theo explained with a bittersweet smile. He felt slightly guilty for not explaining beforehand, but he also believed his actions were justified given Elena's past behavior.
“Does it have any side effects, Master?” She questioned with a hint of innocence, then added, her voice tinged with sorrow, “I don’t want to die without rescuing my brother…”
“I wouldn't have given you this fruit if it had any harmful effects. However, it will trigger a hidden curse if you try to reveal any of my secrets, even to Princess Liliana…” Theo explained.
Elena seemed a bit dazed but eventually nodded in understanding. Yet, her expression was easy read as there was a hint of sadness still lingering on her face.
Seeing this, Theo reassured her, “Don’t worry about your brother. I'll find a way to rescue him.” He had already begun plotting his move against Count Cedric, but he knew preparations would take time.
Elena's doubtful gaze met his, “I don’t want to sound rude, Master, but how do you plan on saving my brother? He's held by Count Cedric. It's almost impossible to face him without seeking help from her highness.”
Lilith, who had been quietly following the conversation, internally agreed with Elena. She was powerful, but she was aware that, in her current state, she couldn't able to defeat a figure like Count Cedric, not unless Theo released her entirely.
But she also knew he wouldn't take that risk of setting her free.
Yet, to their doubting gazes, Theo simply offered a soft smile – a smile that sent chills down their spines.
***
After Elena successfully passed the loyalty test, Lilith's icy demeanor towards her lowered a bit. Instead of her usual silence, she began to respond to Elena's questions with one-word answers.
Later in the morning, Elena relayed a message from Henry to Theo, updating him on the recent happenings within the village.
Having assured himself of Elena's loyalty and that there were no more spies or threats coming from Ironkeep City, Theo began making plans to return to Elwyn City.
Over the past six days, he had accumulated a significant quantity of Shadowshade Potatoes and Nightshade Tomatoes. His goal was to sell these in the city market to amass enough gold, which would fund his plans against Count Cedric.
Before going back to his farm, Theo informed Elena that she shouldn't worry if he doesn't respond from his room, she held back any questions, choosing not to voice them.
***
It was late in the morning when two figures emerged in one of Elmswood Inn’s rooms. A boy, followed closely by a girl, descended the stairs. He noticed Neria and Lorian weren’t there, proceeding through the exit door.
Outside, he handed Lilith a yellow ring. "I've stored ten thousand gold in this ring. You can go do your shopping. I need to sell all those enchanted vegetables."
Lilith’s eyes narrowed with an intense protective glint. She took a step closer, whispering, "If danger approaches, you call me immediately, understood?"
Theo locked eyes with her, then playfully flicked her forehead, responding, "Alright, Demoness."
She let out a slight "Oww…” and rubbed the spot where he'd flicked her. As she looked up, he was already walking in the opposite direction. She watched his retreating figure for a few moments before turning to go on her shopping spree.
Parting ways with Lilith, he headed to Haven Harvest. As he approached, several carriages were lined up there, with one particularly luxurious one standing out, surrounded by a group of Elven soldiers.
'Why are they here?' he wondered.
Stepping into the shop, he was met with familiar faces he'd hoped to avoid. Two elven girls sat on a sofa, with commander Haldir in conversation with the store manager.
"When will you have more of those enchanted vegetables?" Haldir inquired, desperation was flowing in his voice.
"We're currently out of stock, sir. We're uncertain about the next restock," the store manager replied.
But seeing someone entering the shop, the manager's attention shifted to the newcomer, and a smile shone on his face. But realizing his distinguished guests, he quickly masked his expression. In his mind, he muttered, ‘Why did he choose the worst possible time to show up?’
Following his gaze, Haldir scrutinized Theo, and Aerin, visibly agitated, stood abruptly. "You?" She yelled.
‘What is this lunatic doing here?’ He muttered inwardly
With an exaggerated casualness, Theo waved at her as though they shared a deep friendship, which earned him a warm smile and a greeting wave from Elara, who then gently pulled her annoyed sister back onto the sofa. Aerin, though seated, continued to glare at the boy.
Ignoring the lunatic princess, Theo approached the store manager. "I have more items to sell. Can we complete the transaction quickly?"
The manager hesitated, "Could you please wait outside, Sir? We're currently attending to the royal family."
Theo detected a strange tone in the manager's request. He couldn't understand why he was being asked to wait outside rather than within the store.
As Theo pondered, Haldir interjected, "You must find a solution. It's Princess Elara's birthday soon."
The manager's response was a silence. Not because of Haldir's words, but his thoughts seemed elsewhere. Misreading the silence, Haldir waited for the manager to come with a solution.
As the two continued their discussion, Elara approached Theo. "You mentioned you were a merchant during our last meeting. Can you show me what you sell?"
Elara's mind drifted back to their first meeting when Theo had introduced her to the shadowshade potato. It was also the time when this store had started selling these new enchanted vegetables to the market. These were not just ordinary enchanted veggies anyone could find in the market, they came with additional benefits.
The enchanted potatoes boosted one's immunity against illness and poison. Then there were the enchanted tomatoes, which were incredibly sweet and intoxicating, such that her royal father had been so taken with them that he had ordered all available stocks from the market.
Other Highborns and elders had expressed interest in these vegetables, but their availability was limited to this particular store in Elwyn city so they asked the store manager to sell all the stock to the royal family directly. Elara and Aerin had been lucky to purchase some during their recent visit to Elwyn city, the same day they first encountered Theo. So, she deduced that Theo was the supplier to the store manager.
With her birthday approaching, Elara had plans to include these enchanted vegetables in the grand feast. However, the unfortunate reality was that the store's stock of these special enchanted veggies was now depleted.
Theo extended his hands towards her, revealing the enchanted veggies she sought. The store manager's mouth fell open in surprise.
Haldir, observing the store manager's reaction, frowned. Following the manager's gaze, he saw Elara taking one sample of the enchanted vegetables from Theo’s palm, her expression brightening as if she had found the treasure she was seeking.
Haldir inquired, “Are you the one who sold these to this store?”
“Yes. Why do you ask?” Theo responded in an impassive tone.
A cold look flashed in Haldir's eyes as he shifted his gaze towards the manager. However, Aerin's voice intervened, "We want to buy all the enchanted veggies you have."
Theo responded with a soft smile, “I've changed my mind. I'm not selling them anymore.”
Unable to hide her irritation, Aerin retorted, “And why not?”
“They are mine to sell or not. Why should I sell to you when there are plenty of other places to do business?” Theo countered with a hint of mockery.
Haldir's patience snapped as he saw a random human merchant was talking so rudely to the elven princess. Drawing his sword, he spoke, “How dare you behave to princess Aerin in such a manner?”
[Your Demonic Trueheart is ready for harvest!]
>>>>
Looking at the unique bush-like plant in front of him, which stood about a meter tall with thick foliage, Theo's eyes settled on a lone white berry. He didn't need the [Darkreaper's Scythe] to harvest it.
As he gently plucked the trueheart fruit from its perch, a tiny crimson particle began to emerge from the spot it once occupied. This minute particle seemed to take notice of Theo, and like a shooting star, darted towards him, colliding with his chest. Instantly, a barrage of notifications appeared before him.
<<<<
[You've successfully harvested 1 Trueheart berry!]
[You've collected 184 Ring Essence points.]
[You've absorbed 184 Ring Essence points.]
[Ring Power strengthened by 184 points.]
[Ring Power is at 175/175 points.]
[Your Second ring has evolved to Rank 4!]
[You've reached Circle Rank 14.]
[You have received 3 free stat points.]
[Your Demonic Farm has advanced to Level 14.]
[You have unlocked an additional acre of land.]
[Ring Power is at 78/200 points.]
>>>>
Reaching Circle Rank 14 was a significant achievement. Before this, his ring power stood at 69/175.
Over the past six days, he'd planted Abyssal Delight Berries, Mistgrenade Shrub, and VigorVita Coconut. These were new seeds he'd purchased from the [Buy] section of the Auction House, which had become accessible as he leveled up.
<<<<
[Mistgrenade Shrub]
[~ This enchanting plant produces small grenade-like fruits. Upon tapping and throwing, these fruits release a dense fog, obscuring vision for a short period. Ideal for creating diversions or evading detection.]
[VigorVita Coconut]
[~ Resembling an ordinary coconut, this offers refreshing water and nourishing meat. Drinking the water or consuming its flesh boosts stamina and aids in its recovery. Its effects last for two hours and don't stack, ensuring no risk of overconsumption. Perfect for those in need of a quick energy boost.]
>>>>
While the level-up brought him joy, Theo's attention remained fixated on the Trueheart berry. He traced the surface of the berry with his fingers. It felt soft under his touch, and surprisingly cold.
With the berry in his grasp, Theo cast a portal and stepped into his room before going to the Grand hall. He called Elena from her room and gestured for her to sit on the sofa.
Lilith, already seated beside Theo, was giving icy glances towards Elena.
“Here, this is for you.” He placed the white berry on the table.
Elena looked at it with curiosity. “What is this, Master?”
“It’s an enchanted fruit. I’ll explain more after you eat it,” Theo replied.
After a moment of hesitation, Elena picked up the berry. She glanced nervously between Theo and Lilith, both of whom watched her intently, then consumed the fruit.
For a moment, nothing happened, and Theo's shoulders slumped in disappointment, looking downwards at the ground and entertaining different thoughts. It seemed as though she had intended to betray him.
However, just as he was about to lose hope, a nudge from Lilith made him look towards her. Following her gaze, his eyes brightened.
Elena was enveloped in a radiant white light that encircled her like a spiraling chain, gradually shaping into a crescent-shaped crimson moon that then condensed into a mark on her wrist. Theo felt a sharp sting on his own wrist and, glancing down, discovered an identical mark.
Notifications began popping up before him, confirming the bond Elena and he now shared.
<<<<
[Elena Mistwood has become your First Trueheart.]
[A unique bond has been established between you and Elena Mistwood.]
[A shared mark appears on both your wrists, visible only to Truehearts.]
[This bond strengthens the loyalty Elena Mistwood feels toward you.]
>>>
He breathed a sigh of relief, even happier now that he knew she had no intention of betraying him. Her loyalty had been genuine all along, as proven by the trueheart berry effect manifesting on her.
Elena's face was filled with confusion as she looked at the mark on her wrist and remembered the light that had enveloped her. “What was that, Master?”
“It’s from the Trueheart berry. Once consumed, it ensures you can’t betray me or reveal any of my secrets... If the seal hadn’t activated, it would have meant you weren't truly loyal to me. And if that had been the case, she would've taken your life,” Theo explained with a bittersweet smile. He felt slightly guilty for not explaining beforehand, but he also believed his actions were justified given Elena's past behavior.
“Does it have any side effects, Master?” She questioned with a hint of innocence, then added, her voice tinged with sorrow, “I don’t want to die without rescuing my brother…”
“I wouldn't have given you this fruit if it had any harmful effects. However, it will trigger a hidden curse if you try to reveal any of my secrets, even to Princess Liliana…” Theo explained.
Elena seemed a bit dazed but eventually nodded in understanding. Yet, her expression was easy read as there was a hint of sadness still lingering on her face.
Seeing this, Theo reassured her, “Don’t worry about your brother. I'll find a way to rescue him.” He had already begun plotting his move against Count Cedric, but he knew preparations would take time.
Elena's doubtful gaze met his, “I don’t want to sound rude, Master, but how do you plan on saving my brother? He's held by Count Cedric. It's almost impossible to face him without seeking help from her highness.”
Lilith, who had been quietly following the conversation, internally agreed with Elena. She was powerful, but she was aware that, in her current state, she couldn't able to defeat a figure like Count Cedric, not unless Theo released her entirely.
But she also knew he wouldn't take that risk of setting her free.
Yet, to their doubting gazes, Theo simply offered a soft smile – a smile that sent chills down their spines.
***
After Elena successfully passed the loyalty test, Lilith's icy demeanor towards her lowered a bit. Instead of her usual silence, she began to respond to Elena's questions with one-word answers.
Later in the morning, Elena relayed a message from Henry to Theo, updating him on the recent happenings within the village.
Having assured himself of Elena's loyalty and that there were no more spies or threats coming from Ironkeep City, Theo began making plans to return to Elwyn City.
Over the past six days, he had accumulated a significant quantity of Shadowshade Potatoes and Nightshade Tomatoes. His goal was to sell these in the city market to amass enough gold, which would fund his plans against Count Cedric.
Before going back to his farm, Theo informed Elena that she shouldn't worry if he doesn't respond from his room, she held back any questions, choosing not to voice them.
***
It was late in the morning when two figures emerged in one of Elmswood Inn’s rooms. A boy, followed closely by a girl, descended the stairs. He noticed Neria and Lorian weren’t there, proceeding through the exit door.
Outside, he handed Lilith a yellow ring. "I've stored ten thousand gold in this ring. You can go do your shopping. I need to sell all those enchanted vegetables."
Lilith’s eyes narrowed with an intense protective glint. She took a step closer, whispering, "If danger approaches, you call me immediately, understood?"
Theo locked eyes with her, then playfully flicked her forehead, responding, "Alright, Demoness."
She let out a slight "Oww…” and rubbed the spot where he'd flicked her. As she looked up, he was already walking in the opposite direction. She watched his retreating figure for a few moments before turning to go on her shopping spree.
Parting ways with Lilith, he headed to Haven Harvest. As he approached, several carriages were lined up there, with one particularly luxurious one standing out, surrounded by a group of Elven soldiers.
'Why are they here?' he wondered.
Stepping into the shop, he was met with familiar faces he'd hoped to avoid. Two elven girls sat on a sofa, with commander Haldir in conversation with the store manager.
"When will you have more of those enchanted vegetables?" Haldir inquired, desperation was flowing in his voice.
"We're currently out of stock, sir. We're uncertain about the next restock," the store manager replied.
But seeing someone entering the shop, the manager's attention shifted to the newcomer, and a smile shone on his face. But realizing his distinguished guests, he quickly masked his expression. In his mind, he muttered, ‘Why did he choose the worst possible time to show up?’
Following his gaze, Haldir scrutinized Theo, and Aerin, visibly agitated, stood abruptly. "You?" She yelled.
‘What is this lunatic doing here?’ He muttered inwardly
With an exaggerated casualness, Theo waved at her as though they shared a deep friendship, which earned him a warm smile and a greeting wave from Elara, who then gently pulled her annoyed sister back onto the sofa. Aerin, though seated, continued to glare at the boy.
Ignoring the lunatic princess, Theo approached the store manager. "I have more items to sell. Can we complete the transaction quickly?"
The manager hesitated, "Could you please wait outside, Sir? We're currently attending to the royal family."
Theo detected a strange tone in the manager's request. He couldn't understand why he was being asked to wait outside rather than within the store.
As Theo pondered, Haldir interjected, "You must find a solution. It's Princess Elara's birthday soon."
The manager's response was a silence. Not because of Haldir's words, but his thoughts seemed elsewhere. Misreading the silence, Haldir waited for the manager to come with a solution.
As the two continued their discussion, Elara approached Theo. "You mentioned you were a merchant during our last meeting. Can you show me what you sell?"
Elara's mind drifted back to their first meeting when Theo had introduced her to the shadowshade potato. It was also the time when this store had started selling these new enchanted vegetables to the market. These were not just ordinary enchanted veggies anyone could find in the market, they came with additional benefits.
The enchanted potatoes boosted one's immunity against illness and poison. Then there were the enchanted tomatoes, which were incredibly sweet and intoxicating, such that her royal father had been so taken with them that he had ordered all available stocks from the market.
Other Highborns and elders had expressed interest in these vegetables, but their availability was limited to this particular store in Elwyn city so they asked the store manager to sell all the stock to the royal family directly. Elara and Aerin had been lucky to purchase some during their recent visit to Elwyn city, the same day they first encountered Theo. So, she deduced that Theo was the supplier to the store manager.
With her birthday approaching, Elara had plans to include these enchanted vegetables in the grand feast. However, the unfortunate reality was that the store's stock of these special enchanted veggies was now depleted.
Theo extended his hands towards her, revealing the enchanted veggies she sought. The store manager's mouth fell open in surprise.
Haldir, observing the store manager's reaction, frowned. Following the manager's gaze, he saw Elara taking one sample of the enchanted vegetables from Theo’s palm, her expression brightening as if she had found the treasure she was seeking.
Haldir inquired, “Are you the one who sold these to this store?”
“Yes. Why do you ask?” Theo responded in an impassive tone.
A cold look flashed in Haldir's eyes as he shifted his gaze towards the manager. However, Aerin's voice intervened, "We want to buy all the enchanted veggies you have."
Theo responded with a soft smile, “I've changed my mind. I'm not selling them anymore.”
Unable to hide her irritation, Aerin retorted, “And why not?”
“They are mine to sell or not. Why should I sell to you when there are plenty of other places to do business?” Theo countered with a hint of mockery.
Haldir's patience snapped as he saw a random human merchant was talking so rudely to the elven princess. Drawing his sword, he spoke, “How dare you behave to princess Aerin in such a manner?”
