Yvvaros: The Clash of Worlds Read Online Free PDF Page B

messed up to see how many players are afraid to confront more than the low level content.”
    “Well, the alternative is risking your avatar’s life,” said Silverstrike. “Not everyone is a thrill seeker.”
    Luke shook his head.
    “They shouldn’t have to be to enjoy Yvvaros.” He turned and looked out to the western ocean. The high level islands on the horizon were practically empty compared to the Inner Plains.
    Luke’s anger was much deeper than he could easily express. The game or rather, the world of Yvvaros felt like a bastardization of its former self. Arbiters wielded absolute power, and even the rules of the virtual reality had been rewritten to oppress the player base.
    “Come on,” said Silverstrike. “Megwin’s Bay is just ahead. Let’s stay focused on why we’re here.”
    “Sure.”
    The settlement of Megwin’s Bay was reminiscent of a medieval port town. A guild hall similar to the one Luke’s guild, The Consulate, had built in Dunidan’s Rest, was the center point. Another two buildings, one of which was clearly an inn, were set up on either side of it.
    Its location directly on the northwest coast of Yvvaros allowed for another building that Luke almost didn’t recognize at first. It was larger than any of the others, and a long wooden pier extended out into the ocean next to it.
    It’s a boathouse… That’s how this zone has developed so quickly.
    Luke and Silverstrike slowed to a walk as they approached the outskirts of Megwin’s Bay. There was no wall encircling the settlement, but a couple of players in heavy armor stood outside of the main guild hall. One of them held up a hand as the two walked toward the door.
    “State your business,” said the guard.
    Luke started to answer, but Silverstrike beat him to it.
    “We’re here to meet with Megwin,” he said. “I’m Silverstrike and this is Kato. We’re the co-leaders of The Consulate, and founders of Dunidan’s Rest.”
    The guard leaned over to one of his companions and whispered something before turning back to Silverstrike.
    “Wait here.”
    He disappeared inside the guild hall. A minute later, he reappeared in the door and gestured for Luke and Silverstrike to follow him inside.
    Sitting in a large wooden chair was a player dressed in a striking silk outfit. There wasn’t a single piece of armor on his body, or a weapon at his side, and as Luke and Silverstrike studied him he smiled and waved them in closer.
    “Welcome, welcome,” said the player. “I’m Megwin. Please, have a seat.”
    He’s not exactly what I was expecting.
    “Hello, Megwin,” said Silverstrike. “Thank you for having us.”
    He reached out to shake the guild leader’s hand. Megwin was polite, but his attention was entirely focused on Luke.
    “And you brought the man of the hour,” said Megwin. “The Hero of Kantor.”
    Not this again.
    “I’m just Kato,” said Luke. “There’s no need to-”
    Megwin broke into raucous laughter and clapped him on the shoulder.
    “You have so very much to learn about making a strong first impression,” said Megwin. “Someone like you is never ‘just’ anything.”
    An awkward silence hung on the air for just long enough to make Luke wince. Silverstrike made a noise, and Megwin finally turned his attention away from Luke.
    “So, we’re here about the message you left with our emissary,” said Silverstrike.
    “Straight to business. I like it.” Megwin leaned back in his chair and brought his fingers together. “Yes… There is something that I think would be of interest to you, your guild, and especially to Mr. Kato right here.”
    Luke took a deep breath and tried to bury his frustration in his exhale.
    “The information does come at a price, however.” Megwin looked as though he was enjoying himself, speaking each word with a slow, narcissistic drawl.
    “What do you want?” asked Luke.
    “Your zone is in the desert. Mine is on the coast.” Megwin gestured with both of his hands,