Tim grew up in a middle-class family, he tried college, didn't know what he wanted to do, basically all he did was waste time and money he didn't have. Now he has debt he can barely pay, and working a retail job where you dislike your bosses, and most of the coworkers never left high school drama. You do one thing or say one thing everyone in the store knows about it before the next day of work. Think the only upside is that you worked there long enough that you are able to choose your most recent position. For Tim it was the gaming section, that way he could be around most things he enjoys, and keep to himself for the most part. But every workday starts off the same. The loud buzz and beeping of the alarm clock on his phone.
With a loud “FUUUUUCK!” Tim reached over, turning off the alarm. thinking to himself how he just was waking up but hoping he could have just another hour of rest. Funny how the human body works like that. it knows its time so you are slowly waking up but your mental state wants to fight it.
Sitting up on the edge of his twin sized bed. There wasn't much to the room, the bed pushed up to one of the corners of the room for more space, a small three door dresser next to it where he laid his phone to charge and had a nice fan sitting on it facing his pillow. Directly across from the beds corner is a L shaped desk with a computer rig, two monitors and gaming chair. Tim couldn’t tell you how many hours he spent on it, his life mainly being work and gaming, not like he had any free money after rent, bills, and food to do much else. If the internet was out, he would pick up a book, or sometimes he would even listen to an audiobook as he gamed. It is a great escape from the mundane.
Tim is not skinny, technically speaking according to the United States he is obese. Single, and not really looking for a partner, content with being able to do whatever he wants during his free time, without having to worry about someone else or the drama that could come with them from their past. able to count his close friends on one hand. Most are all from online gaming or meetings at a convention then becoming friends and gaming.
Tim has one good friend in real life. both went off to different colleges, he was always better with people and had better grades than Tim without trying. It was almost like the guy just had a cheat code for school. One of his favorite stories and best example Tim can recall is, in their old math class, He was sitting in the back doodling and thinking about an anime he was hyped about, when a snore in the desk next to him popped grabbed his attention, it was Simon, asleep in class again. The teacher heard it as well.
“SIMON!” The teacher said not quite a yell, but not quiet. Groaning a bit, slowly raising his head, opening his eyes with a look of someone who stays up till four am every night looking at the teacher with little care. “Since I am boring you, maybe you can solve the problem on the board.”
Simon didn't really react, just blinked as he looked at the problem on the board. Then with a sleepy voice said “Forty Two” without waiting for the teacher's response lowered his head back onto the desk, closing his eyes.
The teacher looked at the board silently for a second then just sighed. in a soft voice“Correct, simon. Ok class” his rambling went on, Simon answered the question right so the teacher couldn't say anything to him he obviously knew the work. But that was Simon. Sleep in class and just pass the class by getting A’s on the tests. Tim did not even think he did the homework. No one tried bullying him, No one tried to bug him, and most people liked him. But he was the same as Tim. Went to college and it didn't work out due to money, now they are both back in their small ass town.
They both got tired of living with their families, so they ended up getting a small two-bedroom home in town and found jobs in a bigger town forty-five minutes away. It kind of helped that rent was far cheaper, and since they could just hop on the highway, they turned the time to about thirty minutes. But in this house, they have a routine down packed. Neither of them are morning people but somehow some way that's the shift that was given to them. Tim didn't have a car, but Simon did, so it came to be that Tim would get up earlier, let Simon sleep, shower, cook breakfast and Simon would drive them to work. while Tim normally would rest his eyes on the way there.
Tim pushed himself out of bed, grabbed his underwear from the drawer, went to shower, brushed his teeth, came out throwing on his pants and undershirt, and started to fry up some eggs, bacon, and sausage. One nice thing about being near home is that he can easily stop by his parent’s farm to grab some eggs for the house. About the time he started cooking Simon emerged from his room to shower and when he set both plates on the table with a side of toast Simon was already at the table and ready to eat. Normally they will eat in silence, unless there was a good book, awesome moment gaming the night before or something that needs to be mentioned for the house that they need from the town they work in that can't be bought locally. About fifteen minutes after they finish eating, they throw on their work shirts. Yeah, two grown ass men both overweight, with khakis and polo shirts. Tim sarcastically thinks to himself about how flattering the uniform is.
Simon threw on his glasses and they both headed out the door. Getting in the older car, and the rock music started playing, buckled up, Tim leaned the seat back and closed his eyes.
It felt as if Tim just closed his eyes when Simon nudged him. “Come on, we gotta get inside.”
Whipping the sleep from my eyes Tim got up and they headed into the store. Simon ended up being the door greeter so after signing in and grabbing walkie talkies, Simon headed to the front to set up the signs for the day, move the gate up fully, and check in with each department. Tim had to head to his post and make sure everything was pulled forward from the night before and presentable. Only a couple things were out of place, so no big deal quick fix. As Tim was knelt pulling the handheld’s up into view from their glass case, there was a sharp tap on his shoulder. Twisting his neck to look up he saw it was Tracie the assistant manager.
“Why wasn't that done last night?” She asked. With her stance of superiority, Tim swore she had some issues with anything he did, even though he hardly talked to her or ever had any complaints from customers about him, but this five foot six-inch-tall woman always seemed to have a glare when looking at him.
“I guess, the night crew must have missed it, no big deal, no customers saw it and it all looks good now.” Tim said, standing up putting on the best smile he could for her. She bent one of her knees, put a fist on her hip, making her ponytail swing and gave him a look that would be the physical embodiment of the words, WHAT EVER.
“Uh huh. Well, why was there a gap anyways, was there a sale yesterday?” she asked, her eyes focused on my hands.
“I don’t know yesterday was my day off.” Tim casually said. As her eyes focused on his pockets.
Her eyes met his, “Yeah, empty your pockets.”
Tim’s face crinkled in complete confusion. “What?”
“You heard me, someone has been stealing games and systems. Now empty your pockets!” she demanded with no room for argument.
Tim being Tim let out a sigh and started to empty his pockets, pulling out his cell phone, wallet, and house keys. “Happy? I am not a thief Tracie!”
She gave a humph, turned and walked off. He tilted his head, eyes widening as anger started to rise up in him, becoming very salty, with sharp motions he shoved his items back into his pockets. How dare she accuse me of being a thief. I am not that low to take anything like that. I have always worked for everything I own. He thought to himself before pausing and taking a deep breath counting to ten as he exhaled.
The first couple hours went without any issues after that, selling two games one to two very excited young boys and a sweet older lady who was very proud of her grandkids and their grads in school this year wanting to reward them with some gifts.
“Tim, I need you in my office please.” The store owner said over the walkie talkie, which was kind of odd. Tim started to think of any reason why he would be called into the owners office. Tim didn’t believe any customer’s left upset and sales were on the up.
He started to head to the office when over the walkie talkie he heard “Uh Oh” from one of the drama runners in the cell phone department.
Making his way to the owners’ office he could see the owner sitting in his chair behind his desk, his monitors for the security cameras flashing everyone's movements in their respective areas. Tracie standing beside him with a look of triumph on her face. The owner was a decently built man not out of shape, but not fit more like a bouncer build, with a gut but it looked solid.
“Have a seat Tim.” He motioned to the single chair in front of his desk. Tim started to have a bad feeling like those times back in high school where you get called into the principal’s office. “Tim?” The owner repeated. Tim straightened himself up and moved to sit in the chair.
“Tracie told me about the issue you and she had this morning. I have to say I was very disappointed but not very surprised.” he said with a concerned look.
For the second time today, Tim’s face crinkled up into a confused expression “I am sorry sir, but I am not sure I follow.” Tim said.
“Tim I am sure you are aware as I am about all the customer complaints I am told about, and now that when Tracie nicely asked you what you was doing with the handhelds, and you stand up saying you wasn't doing anything but when she pressed you jumped to the conclusion, she accused you of stealing. Even going so far as to empty your pockets in an aggressive way to prove your innocence.”
“Sir I never did anything like that, I also don't know what you mean by complaints. She asked why the handhelds were not pulled.”
He held up a hand to me. “I am sorry Tim, but I saw the tape, you looked very aggressive, and Tracie is not a very big woman while you are a pretty big boy, but after some thought and debate I think it's best that you turn in your walkie talkie, clock out and start looking for a new job.”
Tim couldn't believe it, standing up quickly. “What?! Nothing you have said is true. Sales are up because of me, and as far as I have heard, I haven't had a single person leave my area unhappy.”
The owner sat back calmly “Tim look at how you are acting right now. I do not want someone so quick to anger in my company. Now go turn in your walkie and leave my store before I call the police and have you removed. Please.”
When he brought up the police Tim’s anger quickly washed away, and his shoulders dropped, feeling completely defeated. He quietly turned, walking to the door exiting without another word all the while feeling Tracie's eyes on my back, Tim knew she was smiling just like she did when he walked in.
Whatever did I do to this woman, what did I do for someone to want to get me fired. There are three things in this world you don't mess with. One, a person’s family. Two, their source of income. Three, their food. She just attacked one of those three, what the hell am I supposed to do now. He thought to himself as he made it to the room to put the walkie talkie away.
Tim felt himself getting heated again as he started to take the walkie off. But before he pulled out the earpiece he heard. “Finally, we get rid of a useless worker.” again one of the drama girls in the phone department. Slamming down the walkie on the charger, he walked out of the back room towards the front exit. Simon was greeting people but caught Tim in the corner of his eye, then looked at him. Yeah, he was waiting for Tim after after hearing Tim getting called to the office and then the snarky remark from the drama crew it was easy for him to two and two together.
As Tim got closer, the newest customers started to go in the direction Simon directed them, before turning to Tim. “Tim what the fuck happened?” he asked in a hushed tone, as the latest customer walked away.
Not able to hide the mixed feelings off his face, Tim started as quietly and as calmly as he could. “I was fired for being aggressive and having too many complaints on me.” He said pissed off but doing his best to keep his voice down.
He looked at Tim confused by what he just heard. But Simon being Simon, just sighed. Dug into his pocket and handed Tim his car keys. “There is an extra shirt in the trunk, take that shit off, and go clear your head, when we get home we will get your resume fancy and apply to jobs tonight. Just go cool off, I know it’s wrong and whatever this is it's dirty. So just come back at five to get me.” He said anger hidden behind his blank face.
Tim couldn't say much, just let out a sigh and with a weak voice said “Yeah.” the realization that there was nothing he could do about it, and just accept what was now reality for him.
Tim headed to the car and popped the trunk. The shirt was hung on a wire by the hanger, with a pair of pants. The shirt was an old halo 2 shirt that brought back memories of when Tim and Simon as well as others would get together with xbox consoles and tv’s for LAN parties. He changed his shirts then jumped in and started to drive. It was roughly around his old break time anyways so he drove to a McD's and grabbed a quick meal, then headed to a park not far, walking to the bench he ran all the interaction he had with Tracie in his head. Even though we never really hung out or became “work friends” Tim could not find anything that would cause her to want to fire him. Gritting his teeth. “That fucking bitch! What was the point?” he thought out loud as he got to the bench and sat down just taking out the burger from the bag and taking a bite of it. This is what sucks about small towns, it’s all who you know, and who your friends are. If anyone says something bad about you it must be true because so and so said it. No one has the guts to just talk to the person in question and make their own opinion of them.
The burger was not that filling. “ I guess I did work up an appetite with how angry I had gotten.” Tim thought to himself. When done with the burger and fries before he knew it and tossed the trash into the garbage bin next to the bench. As he was finishing up his coke he heard the tap of a cane on concrete. Tap, tap, tap, tap. an older man and his dog walked up to the bench.
“Mind if I sit down here young man?” He asked simply. He didn't seem like much, just an older man with a cane, wearing a bowler hat, white button up shirt with a black vest, and black slacks. His dog was one of those wire fox terriers, cute dog but now thinking about it the man seemed like he belonged in a British setting not an American.
“Sure, as long as your dog doesn't mind me I don't mind the company.” Tim said, looking at the dog. It gave a little bit of a quizzical head tilt. The old man sat down, and Tim didn't take his eyes off the dog, holding out his hand palm down. The dog walked up to his hand sniffing it then gave it a lick, the old man took a little more interest.
Tim started petting her and the dog quickly warmed up to him. “Hmmmm she normally doesn't warm up to others so quickly. I take it you deal with animals often?” He asked, watching.
“I grew up on a small farm a little over half an hour from here, we had all kinds of animals, and my mother was the nurturing type so more and more animals kept coming, had plenty of dogs among them just kinda became something for me, plus I find animals far more enjoyable than most humans, they don't lie or put on a face for you. They tell you if they like you or if they hate you. Actions speak louder than words.” Tim said, sitting up and the dog jumped up into this lap, laughing as he continued to pet her.
“Hmmmm well from the looks of those Khaki's you just got off work, I hope you don’t mind her fur getting on them.” They said with a smile seeing how relaxed Tim had become since they sat down compared to how he was when they first arrived.
“I did just get off work.” Tim said with a bit of a lower voice. “I am still trying to process that I was just fired. So I am not too worried about fur on the pants at the moment.”
During the exchange Tim didn't realize he stopped petting the dog. She gave a slight whimper and pushed her nose under my hand and he began petting her again. “Well I am sorry to hear that, do you think you will find something?” the old man asked
“Yeah, I am not too picky when it comes to work, as long as I am allowed plenty of sleep, and it puts food on the table I don't really shy away from work, one good thing my parents drilled into my brain.” Tim replied and he thought he saw a twinkle in the man's eye out of the corner of his own.
“ I like your attitude. You seem to have a bit of weight on your shoulders, but I think you would do well in something my colleagues and I are putting together.” He said smiling then pulling out an envelope and handing it over to Tim. “Please take a look at that for me.” He stood up, tipped his hat to me. “I have a couple more stops to make if you will excuse me. I will see you soon Tim. Come along fey.”
Holding the envelope Tim looked after Fey and the man as they walked away as a confused look crossed his face for the third time today thinking when did he tell the man his name. Looking down at the envelope, it felt heavy but seemed too then for the weight as he heard the tap of the old man's cane fade as he got further away. TAP. TAp. Tap. tap.
Looking it over it didn't have anything on the outside and it was kinda creepy to receive a blank envelope from a stranger, but Tim thought his day was already pretty bad, couldn't get much worse. Opening the envelope he pulled out a folded single piece of paper.
HELLO INVITED PARTICIPANT
You have been invited by one of our recruiters to join in our future adventure. WE are looking for some strong willed individuals tired of the mundane life, and done with this world's way of thinking where you must brown nose to make a name for yourself or be born into riches.
Our adventure will be just that, you will be blazing a trail in uncharted territory, building yourself and others you choose up from nothing. With no one to tell you what is right or the wrong way to do things or have undeserving people in power telling you what to do. Or at least if you meet said people you have a right to challenge them however you wish. WE believe you have a right to challenge things you believe to be wrong in the world and help us to make it better.
It will not be easy, there will be challenges that most people would back down from and look for ways out. But for those that push through and leave their footprint in the sand, GREAT rewards and riches you wouldn't dream of where you are now will be possible. So Participant! Do you wish to join us on this magnificent journey? If so, please push your thumb print at the bottom of this page.
Tim’s eyebrows raised this sounded great, but it was also very vague. “I mean desperate people would sign this in a heartbeat, but they also fall for all those scams you hear about, Pyramid schemes, Pay us this much and we will send you a lot more money, and many more. But I mean all it was asking for was me to press my thumb to the paper, not a signature, not my social security number, just to press my thumb to the paper.” He thought. Looking around to see if anyone else was near. He shrugged and went to press his thumb to the paper and just as he did wind blew the corner of the paper up to his thumb giving him a paper cut just before he pressed it. he pulled back and sucked in air through his teeth before sucking his thumb.
“Damn thing, bite me!” Tim said and looked at the paper his thumb print was now on the paper in blood. The paper started to shimmer and faded till it no longer was in his hands. Tim stared at the open space with disbelief on his face “What the hell?!” looking around. He bent over to look under the bench, in the garbage bin, before spinning around looking anywhere his eyes could, trying to find the paper a logical place that it went. “What the hell just happened. Am I more stressed out than I thought?”
After checking two more times, Tim started to walk to the car, “I am just stressed, more than I thought, Yeah that's it. Just stress and anger built up.” Tim thought to himself. When he heard a voice start echoing around him.
WE ARE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE WE HAVE RECIEVED YOUR LETTER WANTING TO JOIN US ON OUR ADVENTURE, BUT THERE WAS ONE REQUIREMENT YOUR RECRUITER PUT ON THE INVITATION WE WAS NOT AWARE OF, IT REQUIRES YOUR PARTNER TO ALSO ACCEPT, WE WILL LET YOU KNOW THEIR RESPONSE AS SOON AS WE HAVE IT. NONE THE LESS WE ARE EXCITED FOR YOU JOINING OUR ADVENTURE!!!
Tim started looking around like a crazed lunatic. He was the only one in the parking lot, no person, no other vehicle, no mega phones, nothing. He even checked his phone with nothing on it. “WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON!” He yelled.
Getting in the car, starting it up, he just started driving around. Honestly shaken up from everything that has happened today, being fired and now things he couldn't explain he didn't know what else to do, all he could think of was to go somewhere familiar and comfortable.
Parking the car in one of the closest spots near the door, he recognized the only other car near his own as the owner's car.
The sleeping dragon was not a huge store but not small, it was kinda homey walking in the counter and register to your left, behind them sat an older man, someone in his mid thirties. He had long brown hair a little past his shoulders, glasses, and a neatly trimmed goatee. “Hello, welcome to the sleeping dra. Oh hey Tim, you're here early.”
“Yeah it's been one of those days, how are you doing Clark?” Tim asked with a smile.
“Oh you know, keeping the old shop floating and living the dream.” He smiled back at Tim. “Are you in for anything in particular or just killing time?”
“Killing some time, I am going to have a look at some of your books.” Tim said, pointing over to the collection of novels and comics.
“Sure you know where to find me.” He smiled and sat back down reading the spider-man comic book he had sitting with him.
Clark's smile was a warming and calming one. This place has been an escape for Tim back in high school when it first opened. Any chance he could get his parents to allow him to take one of the trucks from the farms up here to buy some new cards, books, or comic books, he would. Tim would spend hours of his weekends here just relaxing playing something, meeting some other nerds and just talking about other worlds. What type of powers are the best and what would you choose if you could? Stuff like that. Man, that did bring back some memories.
As Tim was reminiscing, his eyes caught an old book for a tabletop game he recognized. Tim reached out grabbing it and started turning pages, Tim jumped to some of his favorite classes, Druid, Ranger, Monk, and Barbarian.
He loved the way Druids could connect with nature, cast spells and turn into animals, but they couldn't use the basic weapons and armors because it wasn't natural, even though metal came from the earth.
Ranger was a little more of a mix of someone who felt at home in nature, but still could use weapons and armor to help themselves in battle but spells were lacking in his opinion.
Monk is definitely a soft spot for him. Someone who uses their entire body as a tool, constantly striving to improve it and make it a temple as well as a weapon where no one could catch you unarmed.
But the down side to them was since all they needed was themselves, it was disappointing to watch others receive cool items while you just got things when leveling up but everyone got something like that. So it turned a lot of people away from it, but what they didn't know was that you could find some things that only a monk could use and receive magical bonuses from. Just the DM's I knew running the games didn't like handing those out.
Now Barbarian a complete hp tank, Ok you going to hit me? Well I am going to take that and hit you harder. Whenever combat starts they are at the top few could compare to what they could do with a weapon and pure determination. But giving up all those points for Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution so you can do that, left you lacking in being aware of your surroundings, and their people skills tend to be worse than his own in real life, not to mention imagining always being in the thick of it, you might be able to take a lot of hits but you are feeling every hit.
Of course Tim knows his arguments are invalid. Cause there has to be balance in games like these, you can't just give one class everything or everyone will want to play it and just be the star of the show the key is, its a team game everyone is the star, when you all come together and help each others shortcomings to accomplish a goal which by yourself you would of failed or other people feared to even try. So it’s almost like standing at the top of a mountain where very few can say they stood.
Tim thought back to some of his characters, all of them amazing in their own right and thinking about their accomplishments just brought a smile to my face as he sat the book back down on the shelf, Tim dug around a bit more before deciding to grab one of his favorite comic book antiheroes, DeadPool.
Feeling like a bum knowing because of his situation he would not be able to buy anything he was reading, Tim put the comic away, making his way to the front of the store again.
“Hey Clark, since you got some time before your rush hour, mind if I use one of your decks and we just play a couple games, I still need to kill some more time before Simon gets off work.”
Clark put his comic down, and with that same smile got up and brought over five deck boxes, he named off the colors and combinations with what they do. Eyeing them Tim already knew which one he wanted to use. It worked around Big creatures, quick damage spells, some healing and control. It had basically everything he liked, Power, Sustain and a little of denial. As long as he could keep going he knew what he had to do and would do it.
Clark chose a deck heavy on control. Tim’s opposite and the colors he disliked the most but he could not blame him it is the counter to what Tim had chosen; it meant he had to play smarter instead of a raging bull in a china shop.
As they played, Clark easily got Tim to talk about what was bugging him, Tim told him what happened, all he could do was shake his head at the end of it. “That is why I don't complain about not having a lot of nice things, I am happy being my own boss even if that means I just make enough for all my bills and keep the lights on in this place. I am sorry Tim. If I could, I would offer you a job here. I know how much you like the place, and you are knowledgeable about everything that goes on around here. But more than not, the kids just use it as a clubhouse. They buy stuff when they can but when you get to a point in cards you have all you need for whatever decks you want, unless you are a true collector that is it.” He chuckled a bit.
Tim knew the offer was genuine. Clark was just like that, always looking out for the ones he could, it’s probably why the shop felt so comfortable and welcoming. “I appreciate that Clark, yeah I definitely see that, it's why Simon and I always made sure if we wanted something we knew we could get here we bought it here instead of online.” Tim said, giving him a warm smile but as he looked down at the field of play, that same warm smile turned sharper and more devilish. “Though it will not keep me from finishing this game.” As he went for a final all out attack. Clark did not respond, a corner of his mouth simply quirked up into a smile as he simply played a denial card. Tim’s smile did not fade and he responded with a counter card of his own. Clarked looked over his hand for a response but after a bit it was clear he didn't have what he needed.
“You got me.” Clark said simply holding out his hand.
A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.
Tim took his hand, shaking it firmly. “Well it wasn't easy but after that second loss I kinda got an idea of what you had in the deck and I just needed to have my responses ready, as well as throwing a couple bad choices at you.” Tim said with a sly smile.
“Yeah I caught onto that a little too late, making me waste some of my bigger spells for false victories.” He chuckled. “ That's why I like playing with you. Tim you are a pretty good strategist even though you dislike playing the decks that do nothing but lock down opponents.”
“Well it's just not fun to me, I mean when you take away a person's ability to play the game why would they like to play you again?”
“You are too kind, others don't think like that, they just want to win and have the option to say they beat you and you are just mad you lost.” Clark stood up picking up the deck boxes and headed back to the register.
“Yeah they are not the best of people in my opinion.” Tim said with a little hatred in his voice.
“Oh I know and you are not totally wrong but the point of the game is to win, and others just have a different definition about it then you. Just know those people are out there, and every now and then it's best to step on them before they step on you.” Clark said, putting the decks away.
He was right, sometimes you just need to make the first move and keep things from happening. “Well I guess I need to start heading back to get Simon thanks for the games and letting me chill with you Clark.”
“No worries Tim, it was nice having someone here to kill time before the kids get out of school. Are you and Simon coming in this weekend for the tournament?” He asked with a gleam in his eye.
“I don't see why not. From the look on your face you still want to take out Simon.” Tim replied knowing very well what he started.
“OF COURSE! THAT GUY HAS ME DOWN, THIRTY EIGHT TO THIRTY THREE. I CAN'T LET HIM STAY IN THE LEAD WITH WINS THIS LONG!” Clark said, being very animated with every word and movement.
Tim let out a laugh. “You know you called me a strategist but he is far better than me at reading his opponents and manipulating the game.”
“I know!” he sat in his chair crossing his arms “If he would have just gone to state I know he could have gone to nationals, maybe even worlds. But he doesn't have the motivation.”
“Yeah, he just doesn't see a point in proving himself to people he doesn't know or care about. Trust me, he is very competitive when it comes to friends. He enjoys your games, I know that much he kind of got tired of playing the game even with me but when you're involved he kind of gets his old spark back in his eyes. Anyways thanks again Clark I'll see you this weekend” Tim said waving and headed out noticing that same spark light up in Clark’s eyes as well as he turned to leave.
“See ya Tim!” he heard as the door started to swing shut.
It didn't take Tim long to get back to his old job to pick up Simon, so he ended up sitting in the parking lot waiting for him to get off. Music was going in the car. He didn't notice the figure that walked up before tapping on the window.
Tim turned expecting Simon and was surprised to see the old man from the park. He waved at Tim and motioned for him to step out of the car. Tim’s heart started to race. But even with that he slowly opened the door and stepped out, not taking his eyes off the man.
“Hello again Timothy. I am very happy you chose to accept my invitation.” He said with a bright smile, Fey sitting quietly beside him though Tim felt as if she was smiling up at him. “Though we are still waiting for Simon's reply, I am sure after he hears you signed up he will jump on board.”
“You mean Simon will be my partner if he agrees. Wait, you talked to me briefly then hunted down Simon? how did you know to look for him?”
“Oh I know everything about you, once you accept the invitation you become a representative under my purview, the information is given to me, That way I can see to finding the best things for you, understand you better, and in your situation find a good partner to go with you to the new world.” He said casually.
Tim’s eyebrow quirked up. “new world?” If Tim didn’t see the paper vanish in his own hand he would be calling this guy a loon.
“Yes, a new world for yourself and Simon if he also agrees.” He said.
Tim stood there quietly trying to process what he was hearing this man say as if it was a conversation about the weather.
“I am glad you are taking this so well, some of my past representatives didn't hold up so well, some even tried to run away from me, then when we arrived one went as far as to take his own life.” The man replied before Fey barked, grabbing his attention “Oh am I being insensitive again?”
That snapped Tim back to reality, “You... You are completely serious.”
“Oh yes, once you signed up you gave me full control and permission to remove you from this filthy world, and take you to one of the other worlds of Gaia.”
“Gaia, You mean mother earth right? We are on earth.”
“Oh no, you believe this is the real Gaia but this a mere shadow of herself, made to bring life into the universe to see what all will grow, and thrive. Timothy, if you wouldn't mind, could we wait for Simon for any more questions? I find it tedious to repeat myself more than five times and I have a feeling he is going to be confused just as much as you.”
Tim was trying to understand everything that was just told to him, but nodded. “Can I at least ask you your name?”
“Oh, of course. You may call me Glean and you already know fey.” he said waving a hand down at his wire Fox terrier. Who bowed a little with the introduction.
Tim instinctively gave a head nod back to fey. Then leaned back to the car for a bit of balance as he ran all this through his brain, “we don't live on Gaia but a mere shadow of her, and from what else he told me there are other planets like this one created to see what would grow there, he has had several other representatives some even freaking out and one even going as far to take his own life. So what the hell did I just sign my life away too?” Tim thought to himself.
Before I knew it Fey walked up to him putting her head under his hand, and he blankly started petting her as he stared off into space and waited ten minutes for Simon to come walking out. He paused, glancing at Glean and then walked up to me.
“Tim, I see you met Glean.” He said casually but Tim could read his body language pretty well by now. He was looking calm but he was showing some signs of being on guard.
Tim pushed off the car, “You already know his name?” He asked.
“Yeah he came into the store earlier and we had a conversation at the door before he left after giving me this.” He held up the envelope.
“Have you read it yet?” Tim asked him.
“I did. I am assuming Glean gave you one then?” Questioned expecting Tim to reveal one of his own.
“Timothy has already read and responded to my request, but he has several questions as I think you do as well, so I asked him very politely to hold them till you arrived, so I would not need to repeat myself too many times. But allow me to treat you two to a meal, as we go over everything. From what I know Timothy's favorite place to eat in this town is Billy's steakhouse, would that be good enough for you Simon?” Glean asked, seeming to want to please Simon.
“Uh yeah I am fine with it, their steaks are some of the best but they are pretty expensive.” He replied.
“Oh don't worry about the price, consider this a treat on me.” Glean said, then looked at his watch. “Say we go there in your car. We can beat the dinner rush.”
Simon looked at Tim.
Tim shrugged, “Can't beat a free meal.”
“You are right, alright Glean, you and your dog ok riding in the back?” He asked, acknowledging the height difference, Glean was a good four inches shorter than Tim, and Simon was a inch or two taller than Tim, give or take.
“Not at all.” He smiled and headed to the passenger side door.
“Also the dog's name is Fey.” Tim said to Simon. She gave Tim a nudge as a thank you, and Simon seemed to catch it and acknowledge that something far more was going on and the dog might be smarter than most.
“Alright Fey, after you,” He said as Tim moved and opened the rear driver side door for her. She gave another head bow to him and jumped in the car.
Tim made his way to the passenger side door opening it when he heard a throat clearing as he opened the passenger door for himself, turning to see Glean waiting at the door. As Tim didn't move or say anything he looked at the car door then back at Tim.
“Oh.” Tim opened the door for him
“Thank you Timothy.” He said and stepped into the car.
“Welcome.” he replied for him to hear before shutting the door. “I better not be a butler for the rest of my life.” Tim said under my breath before jumping into the car and they headed to Billy's steakhouse.
While driving everyone was quiet, Glean and Fey sitting in the back all proper and straight backed. Like they were taught to always have proper posture.
“Glean, I guess I'll start the questions. Why us?” Simon asked in a simple but polite tone.
“You and your comrade are perfect candidates in mine and Fey's opinion. You both work well together, as well as bring in different skills to the table that helps cover the other's weaknesses. You Simon are very bright and skilled with people. You have a charm to you, even when you are tense you are able to hide it and keep your composure to solve any issues with words. While Timothy is good with animals, he lacks that calmness with people. He is quick to anger when lied too or betrayed. Though he is above average intelligence and is a great strategist, as well as when things are in the open and he knows the situation he knows how to take control by acting.” He said Tim was still not sure if they were backhanded compliments but they seemed genuine.
After that explanation we arrived at the steak house. They all hopped out, Tim opened the door for Glean and Simon opened the door for Fey. Walking up to the doors Simon opened the door for everyone.
“Hello and welcome to Billy's how many... Oh I am sorry sir no animals allowed.” The young lady working the front said.
“She is a support animal.” Glean said simply. I turned to look and Fey was wearing a vest she did not have on earlier.
“Oh my apologies, I will take you to one of our booths to accommodate for this situation. Just the four of you?” she asked, her smile not fading at all.
“Yes Maria, that would be lovely thank you.” Glean said with a bright smile.
Maria took us back to a room that had its own door and six booths with two tables in the middle. Tim lagged behind with Simon saying quietly to him “When did fey get the vest.”
“I don't know, she didn't have it when she jumped out of the car.” He replied quietly but Fey still looked back and up at us.
Sitting down at the booth Simon and Tim taking a seat next to one another, Glean and Fey sitting across from them. Maria left menus saying the waitress would be right out.
The group thanked her and she left. Glean opened up the menu and asked. “Timothy, what would you recommend?”
“Uh, I normally have a medium rare sirloin, with broccoli and side salad, but if I am really hungry I tend to have a Baked potato instead of the salad.” Tim replied not needing to look at the menu.
“That does sound good, I take it you are one of the ones who believe well done steak is just a crime.” He asked, setting down the menu.
Simon and Tim both visibly cringed at the thought of someone wanting a well done steak.
“Yeah it's just not natural to want that.” Tim a matter of factly.
Glean nodded “Simon what will you be having?”
“I tend to get the same but I take fries instead of broccoli.” He also said not needing to look at the menu.
“Hello Folks I'll be your waitress Janet, would you like me to start you off with some appetizers as you look at the menu?” She asked with one of those working smiles, Glean gave Tim a look like what would you two enjoy.
“We will just have an order of fried pickles.” Tim said.
“Would you like ranch with that?” She asked.
“Yes, please.” Tim replied.
“Ok what all would you like to drink.”
Tim asked for soda, Simon asked for sweet tea and Glean just asked for water.
“Ok do you need a minute to look over the menu or are we ready?” She asked, still writing in her notepad.
Glean took over there. “I would like the sirloin medium rare, with broccoli and a baked potato, then I would like another sirloin without the sides.”
Tim asked for the same except side salad besides a baked potato. Simon saying he would like the same except fries instead of broccoli. She then smiled “Alrighty I'll have it all out too you in a jiffy.”
then headed back to put the orders in.
“Well where shall we begin?” Glean asked, petting Fey on the back of the head.
“You said we will be leaving this planet.” Tim said.
“Yes, you will be going to true Gaia as my representatives. That is if Simon decides to sign up with us as well.” He said looking at Simon.
“You mean the letter is legit?” Simon asked.
“Oh absolutely. I wouldn't be where I am if all this was a joke.” He said, looking at us. “I know it's a lot to take in but I know you are both open minded people who enjoy the thought of fantasy and playing video games of this world, think of it like that, once you both agree, I will take you from this world. Probably give you more suitable bodies for your capabilities and you will be able to start your journey, pick your paths, and grow. I think you two would have a good chance to ascend like others have.” He finished as Janet brought us our drinks and fried pickles.
“Thank you Janet.” Glean said, she gave him a smile and walked off as he took a pickle to eat.
“Tim, did you actually sign that thing?” Simon asked.
“Yeah I mean it asks you to press your thumb to it so I thought it was a joke and next thing I knew it took my thumb print and vanished.” Tim replied feeling dumb for not taking it seriously enough.
Simon shook his head knowing what Tim thought, probably putting two and two together about what happened at work and thought Tim probably just said fuck it and did it.
“Is there a way for him to back out?” Simon asked
Glean paused “Don't be ridiculous once a contract is accepted it is solid. Timothy will be coming with me, with or without you Simon, I will just have to find someone else to take your place.”
“From your early statement that we should think of it like a video game, will we be able to see our stats and be able to cast spells, all that type of stuff?” He asked very seriously.
Glean nodded. “Once you accept you can access the display before we even leave, Timothy should be able to see his right now if he wants too.” He said taking another pickle. “mmmmm these are excellent. Good choice Timothy. Now if you want to see what I am talking about just will your stats in mind.”
Tim not eating anything yet, Simon looked at him and Tim gave it a try. sure enough a image of a character sheet similar to a table top appeared translucent in his vision.
Timothy Sawyer
Strength: 13
Dexterity: 10
Constitution:14
Intelligence: 13
Wisdom: 15
Charisma: 10
Due to past experiences Timothy gets a +4 to handle animals.
Due to past experiences Timothy gets a -2 with charisma checks with others unless it involves common interests.
Tim read off what he saw, Glean smiled and nodded as he continued to eat “Mmmmhmmm, that is the basic sheet, think of it as a base line. When you choose a path things will get a bit more detailed and you will have far more abilities. But as I said I will give you both bodies more suited to your abilities and depending which paths you choose.”
“You mean we can choose before we go?!” Simon asked.
Glean simply nodded in reply.
Hope hit Tim, Simon was seriously considering joining, even though Tim agreed without information.
“What else do you have Tim?” Simon asked, very curious. Tim started to try and turn the page and the stat page in front of him left and a new one appeared.
Recommended starting paths
Barbarian: A warrior who relies on his own strength, and powers. Team work, and spells are for the weak. If you cannot stand on your own two feet you have no right to continue to move forward.
Strategist: A tactician, who mainly sits behind others giving orders, choosing the best formation to win the fight. Although some choose to lead from the front lines, commanding his men before hand, giving them stat boots then leading them into hell and back if needed.
Gaia's Warrior: A warrior for the planet, friend to the forest and beasts alike, this path allows you to cast spells of nature and use equipment modified from the earth, as well as allows you to improve your own capabilities from stats of animals, and have animals assist you later in levels.
Tim’s eyes lit up as he read Gaia's Warrior. It sounded like a dream of his. Being able to cast spells as well as fight like a fighter in the front lines, he instantly knew what he wanted. The path lit green and a female voice echoed in his head.
“Welcome Warrior I am proud to call you one of mine. I am positive you will grow and bring light on what it truly means to be a Warrior of Gaia.”
“Who was that?!” Tim asked aloud.
“That was Gaia, I had a feeling you would choose that path. I am sure she is happy to call you one of the few that draws on her power.” Glean said.
“You good bro?” Simon asked me.
“Yeah I actually feel more at ease about all this for some reason.” Tim said, actually picking up a pickle.
“It's because you are no longer in turmoil wondering what is to come, you have taken a step in the direction needed to grow.” Glean said smiling.
“And now that you chose so wisely, you should be able to hear me now. Hello Timothy, I am Fay.” Fay said, standing up putting her front paws on the table, tail wagging.
Tim’s eyes went wide.... “WHAT!” he blurted.
Glean laughed. “Earlier you and Fay made a bond, without your abilities you could only sense her feelings now you can hear her thoughts. You were pretty far down the handle animal path already so I am not surprised you already unlocked that ability. Go keep using it, you might get another rank in it just from talking to her.”
“Like can I just think it at you, or do I need to speak out loud?” Tim thought towards Fey.
“This is fine. Though with animals or beasts that rarely communicate with humanoids you might need to speak out loud at first. Could you tell Simon I said thank you for being so kind with opening up the doors for me earlier.” She asked, her tail still wagging.
“Uh Simon, Fay says thank you for opening up the doors for her like a gentleman earlier.” Tim said to Simon.
He looked a little shocked and uncomfortable “Oh, You are welcome Fay. Only being courteous.”
She barked happily in reply. “Thank you Timothy. I am so happy you chose to be Glean's representative and now you also are following the path of Gaia's warrior, which I knew you would!”
“Really what made you so sure.” He asked her, allowing himself to be engrossed in the energy and happiness she expressed.
“You could call it multiple things, woman's intuition or animal instincts both work for me. But mostly what you said at the park, I felt how much you disliked other humans. I don't blame you, most are more monsters than us animals. But you get to meet the good ones like Simon and Glean.” She said happily.
“You really trust Glean huh?” Tim asked, rubbing the back of his neck wondering if Glean could hear him.
Fey catching the uneasiness from Tim, “Oh don't worry you don't have a link with him, so he can’t hear your thoughts yet. Unless you open one willingly you'll know if he forces one.” she said.
Glean sat straighter and closed his eyes. “Please I am not savage enough to do something like that to a kind young man.” He said then reached for the final fried pickle slice, “Oh I must have been enjoying these far more than I thought, I am sorry Simon you haven't had any and Timothy had hardly any.” He gestured to one of them to take it.
“I'll pass, thank you.” Tim said, focusing back at Fay.
“I don't like pickles.” Simon said simply and gestured for him to have it.
“Thank you boys.” Glean said and took the final one with glee.
“So how bad is this going to be for me?” Tim thought to Fay.
“Bad? Oh you will be fine, it might be a little bit of a shock when you first arrive, it's less civilized than this world, think more like the fantasy books you read, more nature then any villages, few and far Cities. More than likely you will be placed in a decent spawn point, with lots of nature and unclaimed land where you and Simon can level up as well as grow, you might even be able to find your own dungeon core, or blank cores you can use to make whatever you want!” She said getting excited.
“Now Fay don't get ahead of yourself, those items are rare but I have faith in our two boys here to surprise all of us.” he said and Tim noticed a gleam in his eye as Simon moved.
“Ouch, son of a bitch!” Simon said, sucking his thumb as the paper vanished from his hand. Tim’s jaw dropped. Simon turned to look at him. “What?”
“You actually did it.” Tim said, still kinda baffled.
“Well I can't let you have all of the fun and get awesome powers. I also don't want to be left in this shitty town with no one to suffer with me in it.” He said simply.
“Awwwwww you do love me!” Tim exaggerated by bringing his hands to my cheeks doing his best anime girl impression.
“UGGGH! Stop that! don't make me regret this! Now shut up I want to look at my stats and paths.” He said pushing Tim away.
Glean and Fay both laughed and a message appeared in Tim’s view.
CONGRATULATIONS!!! YOUR PARTNER HAS ACCEPTED THE INVITATION AS WELL, YOUR PARTNER WILL BE SIMON DIPPER YOU TWO HAVE GREAT PROMISE WITH SUCH A DEEP BOND WE LOOK FORWARD TO WHAT AMAZING THINGS YOU HAVE TO BRING TO OUR ADVENTURE!
Tim let that sit in for a second then decided to speak again.“ Glean what are you exactly? And what did you mean by giving us bodies to help us with capabilities and stats?” Tim asked seriously.
“I am one of the ascended, I was chosen many centuries ago just like I am choosing you, to influence a world and if you grow well enough you may even claim it as your own. As for bodies you have to know yours are very out of shape. So when I send you to Gaia you will be given new bodies instead, I already have one chosen for you Timothy from your choice of path, when Simon fully chooses his I will pick one for him as well. But don't bother asking me for anything specific, let's just say I know best for you at this point, and I like it to be a surprise.” He said with a wide smile.
“Now if you don't mind if I make a suggestion, Janet is making her way over here with our food, It will be a good while before you get another good meal like this one so enjoy it and savor it.” He said as she showed up, setting down the plates, letting that set in, then decided to dig in.
Tim heard from his connection from Fay every time Glean gave her a piece of her steak “MMMMMMMMM good so good!”
It was a really good dinner. “Thank you for the food, Glean” Tim said and Simon also thanked him.
“No need to thank me boys. This is all just a stepping stone. I will be providing you both with starting gear, and have you put in a decent spawn point. Now Simon you have been very quiet after accepting. Have you decided your starting path?” He asked his hand moving as he finished talking.
“I believe I have.” He said and went silent, closing his eyes.
A minute passed and Glean spoke up “Ah I did choose two good ones, you surprised me a little Simon. Ok boys I need you both to choose new names, preferably something you would use for one of your fantasy characters.” He said
A new screen popped up asking for their names. Tim took in a breath then exhaled, putting in a name he tended to favor. “With that, we must leave. Boys until we meet again.” He smiled and shook Simon's hand then Tim’s, as he let go of Tim’s everything went black.