Felix did not consider himself a successful businessman. Unlike those in suits who spoke eloquently and with flair, he was neither an entrepreneur nor a capitalist. However, his identity as a Sankta had drawn the attention of numerous reporters and media personnel.
A reporter from the Chamber of Commerce received an instruction through his headset. Whatever curiosity or speculation he had about this Sankta instantly vanished.
Their superiors had made it clear—this Sankta was an important client of the Chamber of Commerce.
Ordinary people can't win against capitalist. Sometimes, curiosity truly can be dangerous. The reporters averted their gazes and returned to their assigned tasks.
With a faint, polite smile on his face, Felix walked down the red carpet and entered the grand golden hall.
Modern Kazimierz is a paradise for competitive knights. A renowned author once wrote that knight competitions are the fortune of this era, bringing immense trade and tourism revenue to Kazimierz. Yet at the same time, they are the tragedy of this era, as the knightly class—once a symbol of honor—has lost its value. Their glory belongs to the annals of history. What Kazimierz now demands are competitive knights.
Though the author had expressed a fair perspective, he still drew criticism from the Chamber of Commerce. Under their oversight, he later published a book praising the profits that jockeying brought to Kazimierz.
The knights present had all either participated in knight competitions or were newly minted knights preparing for the 21st Knight Competition next year. Some already had the backing of major corporations and wore sponsored armor that looked sleek and impressive.
Some knights sat with their sleeves rolled up, relaxed in their seats. Others were more animated, laughing and chatting with their comrades. A few stood beside their sponsors, appearing like steadfast guardians.
Felix couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy at how well these sponsors were treated. Some of these knights possessed an old-fashioned warrior spirit—once their loyalty was set, it was unshakable. If he could win over one or two of them, they could become his most devoted subordinates or kindred allies.
The formal suit lent Felix an air of maturity and composure, but he still lacked the polish and experience of a seasoned executive. When it came to presence and charisma, he couldn't yet match the high-ranking corporate representatives and financiers in the room.
It couldn't be helped. In his previous life, he had just been an ordinary office worker—he didn't possess the daring to turn a broken self into a blazing fire. Temperament isn't something that can be changed without the influence of one's environment.
Still, a few competitive knights approached to strike up a conversation. Felix exchanged pleasantries but deliberately refrained from discussing his company or identity. The knights, not hearing the information they were hoping for, soon excused themselves and left.
The awards ceremony was hosted by a Chamber of Commerce spokesperson, who both announced the winners and followed the directives of the business association.
When it came to giving out awards, the priority was clear—they favored individuals who could bring value to the Chamber of Commerce and the knight competition industry.
"This year's most popular tournament knight… The nominated knights include the Light Knight, the Blue Knight, and…" the spokesperson drew out the announcement for dramatic effect, "the Black Knight!"
Photos of the three nominees in full armor appeared on the large screen. The Light Knight wore light armor and had the youthful, handsome look of a rising star. The Blue Knight, a middle-aged woman, still retained a mature elegance and formidable presence. The Black Knight—recognizable by her long, golden hair and a pair of sharp golden eyes—wore sleek, jet-black armor. Her tall horns revealed her Caprinae heritage, and her entire demeanor radiated quiet intensity.
After a brief pause to build anticipation, the spokesperson declared loudly, "Congratulations to the natural warrior—the Black Knight—for winning this year's Most Popular Competitive Knight award!"
"And," the spokesperson added, "the Black Knight will also participate in the upcoming 21st Knight Competition. She might just claim the third championship trophy of her career!"
The Black Knight stepped onto the stage with a calm, steady gait. Unlike many other female knights who leaned into glamour and presentation, she was dressed simply and strikingly—like a gallant man—which gave her a uniquely compelling presence.
Felix's gaze lingered on her the entire time, even as she gave a brief, emotionless acceptance and stepped down from the stage.
"Interested in the Black Knight?" asked a nearby company representative who had noticed Felix's stare. He let out a cold chuckle. "As a fellow in the industry, let me give you some advice: don't waste your time. That Black Knight has no interest in commercial ventures. She didn't even glance at the promotional materials we prepared for her as a potential brand ambassador. She completely ignored the Business Federation's invitations to attend public events."
"So extreme?" Felix replied, mildly surprised.
The representative shook his head in disapproval. "Absolutely. In this line of work, who dares reject the Business Federation? If she didn't have that much potential and popularity, they would've already buried her from the spotlight."
The Federation's tactics weren't exactly a secret. Most competitive knights had, in some way or another, received offers—or pressure—from the Business Federation. Their influence was everywhere.
Once the ceremony concluded, the crowd gradually moved into the banquet hall at the other end of the corridor.
The atmosphere here was notably more relaxed. The spokesperson had already departed, claiming other obligations, and without the watchful eyes of the Chamber of Commerce, guests became more at ease. Company representatives began actively approaching knights—especially those who had won awards or even just nominations—hoping to secure partnerships or endorsements.
It wasn't so much a banquet as it was a networking arena.
Felix noticed that the Black Knight remained alone, distant from the buzz of negotiations. No one dared to approach her. She simply sipped her drink quietly, exuding a composed and indifferent aura. She didn't appear interested in socializing in the slightest.
Calm, silent, and untouched by the commercialism that had tainted today's knights—she truly resembled a traditional warrior.
Felix approached, drink in hand. The Black Knight's sharp gaze swept across him, and in that instant, a chill ran down his spine.
[Black Knight Level?]
[Danger Level: In hundreds of millions of battle simulations, your chance of victory is 0.00%]
Are you trying to be funny?
"I have no interest in you, nor in the company behind you," the Black Knight said calmly, withdrawing the pressure that had emanated from her moments earlier. "I'm not interested in business cooperation."
Felix waited for her to finish before smiling. "Have you ever seen a company agent this young?"
The Black Knight gave him a glance but remained silent.
"I don't have a company behind me, and I don't do business in Kazimierz. As for the so-called business cooperation you mentioned, Miss Black Knight…" Felix emphasized the phrase with a wry smile. "I watch television too. Naturally, I believe you."
"I look forward to seeing you in the next competitive knight tournament. I hope you win your third consecutive championship and become one of Kazimierz 's most legendary competitive knights."
The Black Knight replied, "I'm not particularly interested in fame."
"Sometimes, fame allows you to accomplish things that would otherwise seem impossible—just like a businessman walking across this land."
Felix said no more. He bowed politely to the Black Knight, then turned and walked away.
The Black Knight silently watched his departing figure. Judging by his age, race, and manner of speech, it wasn't hard to guess he was a messenger.
But why would the Chamber of Commerce invite a messenger as an honored guest?
She had no interest in the Federation's tactics. To her, martial arts were martial arts, and a knight was a knight. She didn't like seeing anything impure mixed into what should be a righteous duel. Yet, she wasn't unaware of her current situation.
Today's award was more of a warning than a reward. The Federation could lift her up with one hand—or let her fall just as swiftly. Among the nominees, the Light Knight was entirely a creation of corporate backing. His actual performance rankings were mediocre, but he had amassed a large fanbase through advertisements and public events.
He didn't deserve to be nominated, and yet he was.
The Black Knight blinked slowly. The Chamber of Commerce was running out of patience with her.
As for the reputation Felix had mentioned—perhaps that was just the idealistic thinking of the Sankta people. She hadn't given much thought to why a messenger had received a formal invitation from the Chamber of Commerce. After all, thinking about it wouldn't change anything. Based solely on profession, however, the Black Knight found him to be the most agreeable person she'd met that night.
As for what the future held, she would face it when it came. The Black Knight closed her eyes briefly, and when she opened them again, they were filled with the unwavering determination of a warrior.
Felix, in a good mood after meeting the famed future NPC of Kjerag, did not stay to mingle with the representatives of the knight companies. After his encounter with the Black Knight, he quietly left the cocktail party.
For him, the entire purpose of the evening had been to meet her.
Indeed, the Black Knight was still immensely popular. She embodied the cool older sister archetype. Netizens often used the phrase "handsome guy with breasts" to describe such a captivating beauty. On top of that, she carried the perfect queen-like aura. When players first encountered her, they were completely stunned by her presence… and of course, she eventually made it into the collectible books as well.
The competitive knight tournament was scheduled for May of next year, so there was still plenty of time.
Felix's next destination lay not too far away—Columbia. There, he had a bunch of leeks—no, gamer dads—that needed to be entertained.
In addition, there were several forces in Columbia worth connecting with. One of them was Raythean Industries, a broad-spectrum manufacturing company. Its main product lines included electrical equipment, mining machinery, protective gear, weapons, and other multi-industry goods.
Another was Black Steel International, a major multinational firm specializing in private security consulting and military contracting. Among players, it was fondly nicknamed Black Silk International, thanks to its stunning female operators dressed in black stockings. The company provided a wide array of services to nations, from private bodyguards to military intervention.
The last was Rhine Lab, a company that had only gone public two years prior. It held patents in life sciences, chemical manufacturing, and biological applications—an emerging tech giant with boundless potential.
Felix had heard about the founder of Black Steel International—an elder from the Sankta tribe and a legendary mercenary. But since there was no immediate prospect of business with Black Steel, he didn't plan to make contact for the time being.
Raythean Industries, on the other hand, was of great value to him. It manufactured a wide range of equipment, which, for players, meant a treasure trove of blueprints. Felix intended to obtain some of those blueprints when the opportunity arose, unlocking them ahead of schedule.
Then there was Rhine Lab. With the LMD he currently held, he could invest in this newly public company. Like the Maylander Foundation and several military-backed venture capital firms, he could become one of Rhine Lab's early shareholders. A company destined to play a major role in the future storyline—how could Felix afford to pass that up?
Of course, such a move would deplete his personal treasury significantly… but that was exactly where players and the Columbian black market came in, wasn't it?
As for the idea of founding his own power—that could wait. When the players became wealthy and grew strong enough, he could consider recruiting specialists...
Felix jotted down this modest goal on the studio's blackboard. In the days that followed, he threw himself into weightlifting with renewed dedication.
Ah, such is the joy of being a production player. No girls, no romance—just the sound of hammers clanging and sparks flying. Their hearts hold no women, only the divine beauty of forging itself.
At times, production players might begin to wonder—Aren't the player girls attractive? Aren't the NPCs pretty? Isn't the old lady… cold?
Don't worry. In moments like these, another production player will surely pat your shoulder and reassure you:
"Unlike ordinary people, our group's X-pleasure has evolved. The process of forging equipment is like XX, and the moment the equipment is finally completed is like the essence gushing forth—like giving birth to your own child."
Felix had upgraded his gear, adding a new electric shock function to his coat. It could emit a brief jolt of current to paralyze an opponent—an extremely helpful addition for a gentleman who preferred bayonet combat.
Before departing, Felix paid a visit to the trio at the bar: Bald Martin, the Old Knight, and the Old Craftsman. He told them his next delivery destination was Columbia. The old comrades all wished him a safe journey, free from natural disasters.
The Old Craftsman was delighted and surprised to hear that Felix had finished reading one of his books. When Felix showed him a simple shoulder armor piece he'd made, the Old Craftsman was thoroughly impressed by his talent. He encouraged him to keep honing his skills and studying even while traveling. The next time he returned, they could chat all night—and fall asleep side by side.
After bidding farewell to his friends, Felix stepped out, just in time to see the handsome, fair-skinned face of the Lightly-Armed Knight glowing on the big screen. As the Old Knight would say—that man is a pretty boy.
He returned to Noel Town and took a stroll. Just a few kilometers beyond its borders, he unexpectedly spotted a familiar ID on the roadside.
Dandao Dantart was there, brushing dust off his face and checking a map. His belief had carried him here, toward the holy town of Noel—now regarded as sacred ground by the players.
A military pickup pulled up in front of Dandao Dantart, who instinctively went into reconnaissance mode, eyeing the NPC that stepped out.
"Pioneer!"
Dandao Dantart might not have recognized the ID, but he could never mistake that angelic halo. The golden glow warmed his heart, making him feel as though he might float away into the heavens at any moment.
Felix was surprised too. It was Dandao Dantart. Siracusa was far from here, and it had already been nearly two months since Terra launched. Had this guy really been hitchhiking all this time?
"It's you," Felix said gently. "The nearest town to Kazimierz—Noel—is only a dozen kilometers away. We'll be there shortly."
Dandao Dantart swallowed hard and said, voice trembling:
"I—I'm here to chase you!"
Felix: "?"