The Shelter Game: Me, Starting with a Tenfold Drop Rate

The sun had yet to rise when Vicky began her day's work. She chose not to stay at her own home, nor did she opt for the Smith family's villa situated on the outskirts of the City of Warding. Instead, in order to expedite the handling of all matters related to Ocean Group, Vicky had decided to stay in a house not far from the Ocean Group headquarters.

Every early morning, Vicky made her way directly to the Ocean Group headquarters. While others were still getting ready for work, she was already immersed in company affairs. Today was no different from any other day.

In her office, Vicky tackled various tasks related to Ocean Group. Although the events in the shelter game were of greater significance to humanity as a whole, it was not yet common knowledge among everyone. Therefore, Vicky still needed to ensure the smooth operation of Ocean Group in the real world.

After finishing a few documents, she picked up the phone on her desk. "I've completed the files from the administrative department and the president's office; you can send over the documents from the other departments now."

After giving her instructions, Vicky stood up from her seat. She began pacing back and forth in her office, seemingly trying to relax herself through the movement. Just then, the office phone rang.

Vicky quickly answered the call. "What unexpected situation has arisen now? Which department failed to complete their tasks this time?"

Her tone was cold and serious. Since taking on the role of president at Ocean Group, Vicky had come to realize that every department had its own set of issues. Each one struggled to finish the tasks that were their responsibility, which made her less than cordial with the managers of those departments.

"President, Mr. Irving just called. He said he would be arriving shortly with a few friends."

"Oh, is that so? I understand."

Upon hearing that Irving would soon arrive, Vicky's tone softened somewhat. She hurriedly touched up her makeup in her office.

Before long, Irving arrived at the Ocean Group headquarters, accompanied by Aron, Anna, and Nick. Of course, it was Benjamin who was responsible for receiving Irving and his companions, as he had demonstrated his formidable abilities within the shelter game.

"President is waiting for you all in her office, but before we head there, I'd like to ask you a question," Benjamin said, not leading Irving and the others directly to Vicky's office. He sensed that their visit was of great importance and wanted to gauge the situation beforehand.

"I know what you're curious about, so I'll answer directly. We are searching for a chaotic artifact, and our only lead is an old box. This worn-out box is infused with powerful chaotic energy, and we hope to take it to the Smith family estate. Only then can we have a chance to uncover more clues," Irving explained succinctly.

Hearing this, Benjamin's expression showed a hint of hesitation. "That seems a bit inappropriate, doesn't it? The Smith family estate has been completely sealed off. To ensure that no unusual occurrences happen at the estate, Ocean Group has also deployed strong defensive measures around it."

Although Benjamin opposed Irving's plan, he knew his authority was limited, so he could only offer his suggestions delicately.

Irving nodded. "You do have a valid point, but I think the decision should ultimately rest with Vicky. She is the only one qualified to determine how the Smith family estate should be used."

With that, Irving led the members of the Angel Guild toward Vicky's office, with Benjamin following closely behind.

When they entered Vicky's office, she had just finished touching up her makeup. "What brings you to see me this time? Is there something important?" Vicky initially thought that Irving might be there to discuss their date that evening, but upon seeing the others behind him, she realized he was there for business.

Irving reiterated what he had previously said. After listening, Vicky's expression darkened slightly. "I understand that you want to find the chaotic artifact, but the Smith family estate is extremely dangerous. You've all encountered very perilous situations there before. Therefore, I believe you shouldn't easily re-enter the estate.

The chaotic energy within the Smith family estate should have dissipated by now, anyway."

Vicky gently refused Irving's proposal.

Upon hearing Vicky's words, Aron, Anna, and Nick all displayed expressions of disappointment. Irving did not directly counter Vicky's statement. After a moment of contemplation, he turned to Aron and the others and said, "You all can step outside for now. I need to have a private conversation with Vicky."

Understanding the situation, Aron and the others promptly left the office, leaving only Irving and Vicky inside.

"I know what you want to say. You're probably going to tell me that this mission is crucial," Vicky said before Irving could even speak. Her tone was somewhat subdued.

"Every one of your missions is indeed critical; I wouldn't deny that. But you should also consider my position. Do you think I should unconditionally support you every time you go on an operation?" Vicky replied, her words carrying an edge.

Faced with Vicky's retort, Irving found himself at a loss for words. He couldn't understand the sudden shift in her attitude. After hesitating for a moment, he asked, "Just say what you need to say. I admit I haven't been very attentive to you lately, but there are objective reasons for that. Recently, I've faced numerous crises, and dealing with them has consumed a lot of my energy.

Besides, you haven't had much free time either, considering all the matters you need to handle at Ocean Group."

Irving explained himself, but Vicky didn't seem to be listening. She walked over to the floor-to-ceiling window.

"I do need to manage the affairs of Ocean Group, but I can delegate those responsibilities to professional managers. What I really want is to act alongside you," Vicky said firmly.

"If you come with me, you're bound to encounter danger. I don't want you to be in harm's way! I want you to stay safe!" Irving replied straightforwardly.

Hearing this, Vicky's eyes turned red, and tears began to well up. "Do you really feel that way? Do you think my strength isn't enough and that I would hold you back during the mission?"

Irving was taken aback by Vicky's state. He quickly reassured her, "How could I ever think you would hold me back? We've worked together before, remember? While you may not have been able to provide me with much assistance during our previous missions, you never hindered me either. At the very least, you haven't betrayed me like others have! So you need to have confidence in yourself.

Don't ever think you're dispensable. You are unique and irreplaceable to me."

Irving's words helped Vicky regain her composure. She wiped away the tears from the corners of her eyes. "In that case, let me join you on this mission. If you allow me to accompany you, I will grant you access to the Smith family estate," Vicky said with a firm tone.

Irving could sense the unwavering determination that Vicky now possessed. If he did not agree to her request, it was clear that she would not allow them to enter the Smith family estate.

Instead of giving a direct answer, Irving posed another question. "During the course of the operation, there will inevitably be dangers. Do you really think this is worth it? Do you honestly believe your safety is not important?"

In response to Irving's inquiry, Vicky spoke with even more seriousness. "Of course, I believe my safety is very important! But being able to act alongside you is more important to me! Even if I were to lose my life because of joining you, I would never regret it."

Vicky's declaration instantly reminded Irving of something he had heard from the Knowledge Fairy: that fate was already predetermined. His expression darkened at the thought. Chapter Experience:

"It absolutely cannot be like that! The people I care about will not be destroyed because of this!" Irving muttered to himself.

Seeing Irving's state, Vicky became alarmed. "What's wrong? What do you mean by that?"

Her voice snapped Irving back to reality. He realized he had been overthinking and shouldn't place too much weight on the words of the Knowledge Fairy. With a smile, he reassured her, "It's nothing serious. I've just been really busy lately, so my mood has been up and down. I'm almost back to normal now, so you don't need to worry. Since you want to join me, then let's go together!

I will definitely ensure your safety during this mission, and I will make sure it succeeds."

Irving's rapid change in attitude left Vicky momentarily stunned. However, his response brought her great joy. Since Irving was willing to let her accompany him, she had no further complaints.

After reaching this agreement, Irving called Aron and the others back in. He and Vicky informed them of their decision. Aron and the others naturally did not express any opposition; in fact, they thought Vicky's involvement would greatly benefit their mission. Being a member of the Smith family, Vicky would undoubtedly be more familiar with the estate.

Only Benjamin appeared slightly concerned, but he felt his opinion carried little weight. Even if he voiced his objections, Vicky would not accept them, so he ultimately remained silent. In Benjamin's view, even if danger arose, Irving would be able to handle it.