Meng Hao finally had the opportunity to use the treasure map he had acquired long ago—at last, it would prove its worth.
For most players, the treasure maps found in the early stages were nothing more than fragmented relics.
Obtaining a complete version required enormous effort and persistence.
But with Meng Hao's 100x bonus amplification, the tattered map was instantly restored to perfection.
"It's time to put this map to use."
He slung the 98K over his shoulder, gripped a long spear tightly in hand, and after some hesitation, summoned his goblin guards to his side.
A third goblin guard had just completed training—he now commanded three formidable allies.
"Here, take this axe. We can't all be wielding spears—our attack pattern would be too predictable."
He handed the iron axe to the third goblin, granting it +10 attack power.
Though the axe was a decent fit for an ordinary player, it looked pitifully small in the hands of the towering two-meter goblin.
"Only +10 attack? I thought the spear gave +15…"
After some contemplation, Meng Hao swapped the axe back out for a spear.
He was about to explore Treasure Island—combat efficiency had to be maximized.
Once preparations were complete, he stood proudly on the clearing in front of his wooden cabin and activated the map.
[Do you wish to use the treasure map?]
"Use it!"
Meng Hao roared, his posture upright like a general about to embark on a military campaign.
He waited in silence, eyes scanning for change.
The mist floated idly. The wind was calm.
No visible reaction.
Seconds ticked by, then minutes. Nothing.
"???"
"So… where's my treasure island?"
Irritation simmered. Had he been duped by a counterfeit?
Just as his doubts crept in, waves began to surge in the distance.
The sea frothed. A great shadow stirred behind the rolling fog.
"What is that?"
Alarmed, Meng Hao gripped his 98K tightly, every nerve on edge.
The three goblin guards stepped forward in unison, spears raised, forming a protective wall between him and the threat.
They were guarding him—instinctively, without command.
"Not bad," Meng Hao murmured. "All that training's finally paying off."
Though the guards couldn't leave the island, their presence alone brought comfort.
He no longer felt quite so vulnerable.
Out at sea, a colossal island emerged from the mist—twice the size of his own.
Its shape was still obscured, but it loomed like a massive warship gliding silently through the surf.
A breeze blew across the waves, laced with the rich scent of damp earth.
[Treasure Island has appeared. Do you wish to land?]
Meng Hao raised his 98K and peered through the scope.
Though the 2x scope was subpar for sniping, it sufficed as a makeshift telescope.
What he saw thrilled him—verdant grasslands, blooming flowers, insects fluttering, birds chirping.
The entire island radiated vitality.
"Now that's what I call a treasure island."
Reassured by the idyllic scene, Meng Hao's excitement grew.
"Land!"
The boarding bridge materialized once again.
[Landing Bridge Upgrade Available: Your island has been upgraded three times. The bridge width may now be doubled.]
[Upgrade cost: 5 Crystals. Proceed with upgrade?]
Meng Hao shook his head.
A wider bridge would serve no strategic value now.
His battle plan was to lure zombies onto the narrow bridge—too wide, and they'd overrun it with ease.
"No."
He declined firmly and strode confidently across the bridge.
"You three, hold the fort until I return!"
The goblin guards nodded vigorously, their posture solemn, as if prepared to guard that spot to their last breath.
Their loyalty was never in question—units born from his barracks possessed absolute fidelity to their master.
Meng Hao set foot on Treasure Island.
"The soil is so soft."
Rich, loamy earth—dark and golden—spread beneath his feet.
Perfect for farming. A paradise compared to the bleakness of his starting island.
The air was fragrant with flowers.
Birdsong filled the skies. It felt like another world.
He soon stumbled upon a patch of emerald foliage.
Strawberries.
Bright red, plump, glistening with dew—almost unreal in their perfection.
He popped one into his mouth. Juice burst across his tongue.
"So sweet!"
Overcome with joy, he gazed at the abundant field of berries.
"Forget treasure chests—this alone is treasure."
[Ding! You have consumed a poisonous strawberry. 'Poison Immunity' trait activated.]
[Toxin neutralized. The fruit is now safe for consumption.]
"???"
"Wait… what?! Poisonous?!"
"What kind of maniac poisons strawberries? Was someone spraying pesticide?"
His elation vanished.
If not for his immunity, he might've collapsed on the spot.
"Analyze!"
He picked another and used the game's identification system.
[Cursed Strawberry: A luscious fruit made sweeter by a deadly curse. Lethal to faithless men.]
[Legend says a beautiful sea witch once dwelled on this drifting treasure island. She was kind, radiant, and guardian of the seas—until a handsome prince arrived. They met. Loved. Then he stole all her magic.]
[Note: The poison only affects men. Women may consume freely.]
"??? Are you kidding me?!"
"A curse that targets men? One rotten prince ruins it for all of us!"
Snorting, Meng Hao popped another berry into his mouth, unafraid—he was immune, after all.
"Pretty little witch, not all men are like him. There's still true love in the world."
With that, he stepped further into the strawberry fields.
[Strawberry +1, Strawberry +1, Strawberry +1…]