Only my egg remained completely still, just the same as before—truly, heaven is jealous of talent. Not many people come here; most warriors above level 50 prefer to train in the Lizard Cave, mages are suited for the Demon Boar Cave, while priests, archers, and thieves rarely act alone and usually team up, with Sunset Canyon being the best spot for parties. Only a weirdo like me always trains above my level—haha, what can I say, that’s just how the strong are. Don’t laugh at my narcissism.

There’s quite a lot of loot here, too. I think it’s mainly due to my luck. Now, among all the talent-weighted players I know, I’m probably the strongest, and my bonuses are just insane—heh, even the heavens are helping me.

After grinding for half a day, I’ve gotten a few intermediate pet eggs, which can fetch a good price. We only pick up gold coins, potions, pet eggs, and top-tier equipment, self-sufficient so we don’t have to run back and forth. We leave all the junk gear behind—so comfortable! During this time, Little Henry sent word that the restaurant business is booming and looks like it’ll be expanding. The guild already has over a thousand members, and with the free labor from guild members, costs are even lower. The membership fees are also a decent income. Recruitment is all overseen by Mood, so the quality of members shouldn’t be an issue. In a while, we’ll be able to buy our own base. At least we’re a B-level guild now.

The three of us ignore the outside world and focus on leveling up, almost like a honeymoon. Our teamwork is getting more and more in sync. When we’re tired, I rest my head on Grace’s lap for a while, enjoying Darling’s gentle little hands massaging me, basking in the sun, and even sneaking a little hand-holding. Of course, I’m not bold enough to try any outdoor romance—truly, I’m having so much fun I don’t want to leave (we do have a simple tent for breaks).

I also went looking for that strange deer a few more times, but unfortunately didn’t run into it. Today’s the last day, so I’ll check again. We don’t dare cause trouble on the third floor. Strangely, the monsters here still don’t attack us, but once, when Darling saw a beautiful little flower and ran off to pick it, she was immediately attacked by a level 7 killer bee as soon as she got a bit too far from me. But as soon as she ran back to my side, nothing happened.

So weird! Could it be that I’m related to these monsters? Pfft, no way—I’m way too handsome for that. In the end, the two girls stuck to me like glue, refusing to leave my side. Looks like the invisibility ring doesn’t work on some high-level monsters.

Ah—

It’s the deer! I rushed over, and as soon as the strange deer saw me, it happily ran over and rubbed against me. We had a lively reunion. Red Cloud came out on her own without being summoned and got affectionate with the strange deer too. Looks like she retained some of her mother’s memories. After the excitement, the strange deer tugged at me, wanting to go somewhere, and Red Cloud happily called out beside us. It should be something good, so we followed. Girls naturally love beautiful and cute things, so they were overjoyed. The strange deer kept licking Darling’s palm, making her giggle from the tickling, and I was honestly a bit jealous watching them.

Whoa, looks like we’ve arrived at the strange deer’s home, probably deep in the third level of the forest, maybe even the center. Is it inviting us to a feast? I’m not paying, though.

In the center, surrounded by green trees and red flowers, is a huge lake, calm and still... It’s practically lifeless, completely out of place with the vibrant surroundings. All kinds of bones are scattered around—enough for an exhibition. Definitely not killed by players; if they were, the system would have wiped them out long ago. And don’t be fooled by how cute these creatures look—their abilities are deadly. No one’s been able to hurt them yet, not even a super pro like me.

A few little deer ran over. I used Scan—turns out they’re all tier-8 phantom beasts. These little guys slowly walked to the lake and started licking the water with their tender red tongues—each one was so cute!

Huh? What’s wrong with you guys?? The little deer all stared nervously at the lake, their bodies trembling with tension, but they seemed unable to move.

I was puzzled, when suddenly, the lake water churned violently. The strange deer let out a piercing scream and backed up a few steps. The other little deer got ready to fight. Looks like there’s some kind of monster in the lake. More phantom beasts started emerging from the forest—unicorns, pegasi, goat-vines, and all sorts of bizarre creatures. Don’t be fooled by appearances—these are all at least level 7 phantom beasts. Every one of them was on high alert, staring intently at the lake. Whatever’s in there must be something that could easily end me!

I quickly pulled Grace and Darling back—safety first in the world of adventuring!

Sure enough, a huge wave surged up—MY GOD, several little deer disappeared in the spray, not even having time to scream.

As the water settled, a super terrifying monster appeared! One, two... it was a hydra, one of the ultimate bosses, one of the super monsters designed to take on ten thousand players at once!

Guess I should’ve checked the almanac before heading out today—how did I run into such a crazy boss? The super monster’s battle zone had already expanded, and who knows how big it is. All I know is, we’re definitely inside it, and the town portal scrolls won’t work!