Hacking the Game Didn't Go as Intended

CHAPTER 64: Departure and Arrival

Daisuke stepped into the guild's bustling lobby in time to observe as Thalia placed five hefty coin pouches on the counter.

A sense of elation spread through Elena, Rexar, and Milo, who eagerly hoisted their share above their heads, worshiping it as though it were a sacred gift of immeasurable worth. Their actions were met with amused laughter from the other adventurers in the room.

"Ah, Haxks," Gavric greeted courteously. "I just cashed in the Mana Core. Thanks to you, my family can finally be at ease."

"And we managed to stay alive and secure our license too," Finnian added, offering a respectful ninety-degree bow in an echo of Gavric's. "We owe you a debt of gratitude. Thank you."

"Ah—"

Stowing their loot, Elena, Rexar, Milo, and Lyanna scurried forward and followed suit, much to the astonishment of the other adventurers.

"What's happening?" whispered one man to another.

"Who is he?" murmured another.

"Is he someone famous?"

"He's not exactly dressed the part."

Daisuke raised his hands awkwardly, breaking into a sweat. "Wait, there's no need for that," he said, coaxing them to lift their heads. "I survived because we were a team."

Though his words didn't seem to convince anyone, they accepted his gratitude.

"Normally I'd treat you to a feast for everything you've done," Gavric began solemnly, "but given the circumstances, I must return to my family."

"I feel the same," Finnian added. "It's been over three weeks since I've left my siblings to fend for themselves; I'm really worried about them."

Elena, Rexar, and Milo were visibly jostled by the words of the two men; they couldn't help but reflect on their circumstances as well.

"I truly didn't expect anything in return," Daisuke confessed with a dismissive wave of his hand. "And a feast wouldn't sit well with me, not when we all have unfinished business. You both should get going; it's a small town, and we'll likely cross paths again at the guild."

Elena and the others nodded in agreement.

"Thank you for being so understanding," Gavric responded, followed by Finnian's nod of appreciation.

"Family always comes first," Milo chimed in earnestly.

"Yeah, you both should get going," Rexar said with a gruff but compassionate tone.

"...I should get going too," said Lyanna as she gave Elena a warm hug. Rexar boldly reached out for a turn but got clobbered instead.

"By the way," said Daisuke, offering one final piece of advice before they departed. "Be sure to invest a portion of that coin into acquiring better gear. Formidable power stems not only from strength but also from having powerful equipment."

Gavric, Finnian, and Lyanna waved their goodbyes and made their way to the door, leaving Elena lost in thought.

"After that exchange," Daisuke said, observing the group, "I'm sure you're all eager to return home as well."

Elena's eyes widened with surprise, and as she locked gazes with Daisuke, his warm smile put her at ease. "Since I'm already here," he suggested, "why don't I sell my Mana Crystals? After that, we can pick up some supplies at the apothecary before we head out. Sounds good?"

Everyone eagerly nodded in agreement.

Thalia started waving like a maniac when she spied Daisuke's approach. "I'm so relieved that you're okay," she gushed when he was within earshot of her voice.