23. A Question of Morality

Jake speaks with Villy outside his lodge, confirming that gods were barred from seeing or influencing the World Congress. They discuss the upcoming Treasure Hunt; Villy admits no divination can predict event outcomes but notes Jake’s Bloodline operates outside such rules, granting absolute senses that can pierce most obfuscation.

Villy explains this Bloodline advantage isn’t about raw strength but systemic exceptions. When Jake asks about another force outside the System, Villy withholds details, saying Jake will know it when he encounters it.

Jake then raises William, the metal caster from his tutorial, asking whether killing him would be morally right. Villy rejects universal morality, comparing Jake’s own enjoyable, goal-driven hunts to William’s self-serving cruelty cultivated by Eversmile. He urges Jake to act from desire, not obligation, since everyone leaves “corpse-mountains.”

Jake admits he lacks hatred and sees William as more sad than monstrous, yet would help a friend finish it. He decides to defer judgment to Casper and would assist if asked, while not pursuing William for righteousness’ sake. The conversation ends with Villy pushing Jake to win the Treasure Hunt.

Planning the next ninety days, Jake sets goals: craft uncommon-rarity poisons, develop an uncommon beneficial consumable (possibly flasks or regeneration effects rather than basic resource potions), and consider clearing the dungeon for his level 120 skill. He deprioritizes elixirs due to time constraints.

Sylphie returns enthusiastically; Jake notes her rapid growth and her parents’ higher levels. After a brief reunion, he summons his cauldron to mass-produce potions, beginning an intensive alchemy grind to fund and advance his preparations.