The little players logged back in several hours later.
They had slept soundly and well in another world. Except for the unlucky ones who'd been killed while clearing the dungeon earlier, the remaining 39 all logged in at the agreed time.
It was the weekend, so everyone could enjoy themselves again.
But when they awoke in the underground warehouse that served as their "dungeon save point," even the dullest player could tell that Blood Vulture Corridor had changed dramatically.
The place was clearly far more grim than it had been yesterday. Even the air seemed to carry a chill that made them uneasy.
"You're finally awake, warriors."
Waiting for them outside the warehouse was Murphy's loyal servant, Maxim.
The white-haired swordsman still radiated the aura of battle, but he maintained his cold, ready-for-combat bearing as he addressed the little players through the calculating orb:
"Thanks to your hard fighting and excellent teamwork yesterday, we've cleared the middle section of the corridor. Lord Murphy has opened the final route to the Sacred Blood Pool. The toughest challenge is just ahead.
"But there's bad news you need to hear!
"Fallen Salokdar is planning something even more terrifying than we imagined. An extradimensional rift has been hidden in the Sacred Blood Pool Hall. It could open in the material world at any moment, and if it does, the entire region of Transia will collapse and be torn apart in an instant.
"We've received reinforcements from the Blood Covenant Knights, and Lady Triss is making the final adjustments to our battle plan.
"I won't hide from you how difficult the fight ahead will be. The truth is, none of us may live to see the moonlight tomorrow.
"Still, we have nowhere left to retreat!
"So, by Lord Murphy's command, I must lead you to