Chapter 10: Crafting Comforts
The moment Deo's feet touched the wooden platform of his cabin, a soft chime rang in his ears.
[Skill Level Up! Leaf in the Wind has reached Level 2!]
Deo blinked, a little surprised. Evidently, even though the bond he formed with the leafy bush wasn’t what he had hoped for, it had provided a skill with minor benefits. With a sigh, he decided not to dwell on the matter. The silver lining was a level up, and he would take the wins as they came.
As he surveyed the interior of his cabin, his eyes settled on a rather spacious area, untouched and unoccupied. It struck him as the perfect spot for a dining area. "A table and chairs," he mused aloud, "will fit right there. I’m surprised eating without a table for the past 2 days hasn’t given me a mental break!"
Recalling the blueprints he had acquired, Deo dug into his builder's chest and leafed through the paper designs until he came across the blueprints for a table and chairs. The design was simple yet functional: a rectangular table with slightly rounded corners and two robust chairs with straight backs. As he began reading them, two new notifications perked up in front of him:
[Do you wish to absorb the blueprints for the Rectangular Wooden Table] [Yes/No]
[Do you wish to absorb the blueprint for Simple Wooden Chair] [Yes/No]
Intrigued by the system's new prompt, Deo selected 'Yes'. Almost instantly, a soft glow emitted from the paper, and he watched in amazement as the design seemingly lifted from the sheet, manifesting into a translucent 3D form in front of him. He found himself staring at what appeared to be a holographic representation of the finished product, complete with measurements and annotations.
"This system keeps surprising me," Deo murmured, utterly fascinated.
Upon closer inspection, Deo realized that the visualized table and chairs seemed a tad large for the desired spot in his cabin. A thought struck him. He remembered a fundamental piece of advice from the Basics of Construction guidebook: 'measure twice, cut once.' Heeding the advice, he carefully measured out the cabin's space. Finding that his initial observations were correct, he adjusted the dimensions of the 3D blueprint accordingly. The holographic furniture resized itself in front of his very eyes and now aligned perfectly with the space he had designated.
With the blueprint perfectly adjusted, Deo felt a rush of anticipation, eager to start crafting. However, before diving into the process, he first needed to gather the required raw material: wood. Heading to his chest, he grabbed the lumberjack's axe, feeling its weight and balance. He slung his trusty staff over his shoulder, the familiar weight providing a comforting presence.
As he stepped out of the cabin, Pyro looked up at him, tilting his head curiously. The fiery hound had been resting in the warm sun, with the red streaks in fur glistening as they caught the light, making it look as if embers were dancing across his body. With a simple nod from Deo, Pyro sprung to his feet, ready to accompany him.
As he approached a nearby grove, Deo pondered on the trees to target. As Deo and Pyro meandered deeper into the forest, the serene ambiance was broken only by the occasional chirping of birds and Pyro's playful antics. Deo's mind, however, was occupied with thoughts about wood harvesting. He recalled reading about sustainable logging practices and their significance.
"Trees are not just sources of wood; they're living entities that contribute to the ecosystem in countless ways," he muttered to himself. The practice of indiscriminately chopping down trees could devastate the environment and result in numerous unforeseen consequences. A balanced forest, with trees of varying ages, supported diverse wildlife, stabilized the soil, and maintained a healthy ecological cycle.
The forest, with its towering trees and dense undergrowth, was an awe-inspiring spectacle. Every step Deo took was weighed down by a sense of conflict. While he needed wood for his projects, the thought of bringing down any of these magnificent lifeforms pained him. Their sprawling branches, which had given shelter to countless birds and creatures, and their thick trunks, which had withstood storms and the test of time, deserved respect.
"This feels... wrong," he whispered, looking up at the canopies. But as he gazed at them, a thought surfaced. "If I take, I can also give back."
His ability, Verdant Growth, might allow him to replenish what he took from nature. By promoting the growth of young saplings or healing damaged flora, he could, in a small way, repay the forest's generosity. As a Green Mage, Deo realised he had a greater responsibility towards nature than most.
He resolved to harvest wood judiciously. Ideally, he'd look for fallen logs, which nature had already felled, or older trees that had lived full lives and were nearing their natural end. Not only was this method the most ethical, but it also ensured that younger trees could grow without competition for sunlight and nutrients. It would also ensure the forest's continual rejuvenation, striking a balance between man's needs and nature's preservation.
With newfound determination, Deo set forth, scouting for the right trees to use, holding onto the promise of reciprocating the forest's gifts. Pyro scampered around him, darting between trees, chasing after rustling sounds, and every so often returning to Deo's side with a curious item or just a wagging tail, seemingly enjoying their shared journey through the woods.
Deo's eyes darted around, scanning the forest floor as they walked. Before long, he spotted a series of logs that had fallen naturally, perhaps during a storm or due to old age. Their bark was already beginning to peel and decompose, signalling they were prime choices to repurpose before fully returning to the earth.
Walking over, he assessed the logs. Some were bulky and cumbersome, the sort that would have posed a significant challenge back on Earth. Yet here, his enhanced strength made a marked difference. He hoisted a sizable log, testing its weight. Satisfied, he placed it down and took out his lumberjack’s axe.
The axe bit deeply into the wood, splitting the log into more manageable pieces with each strike. Pyro observed with keen interest, his fiery streaks undulating as he watched, occasionally darting away from stray wood chips. In a short span of time, Deo had several wooden planks ready.
Gathering them, he balanced the stack on his shoulder. "Back on Earth, this would've been impossible for me," he mused, feeling the weight but also the empowerment his new status granted him. The weight of the planks was hefty but not overwhelming, and he felt a surge of anticipation thinking of their potential.
Pyro barked in agreement, his tail swishing, as they made their way back to the cabin, eager for the crafting phase that awaited them.
Upon reaching the cabin, Deo placed the newly split planks by the entrance and took a moment to stretch his muscles, easing out the mild tension from his lumbering efforts. Pyro settled nearby, occasionally glancing over with curiosity as Deo began organizing his workspace.
Drawing upon the detailed 3D blueprints that still floated in his mind, Deo took a moment to visualise each step of the process. The crisp details of the blueprint overlaid on the raw planks helped him understand where to start.
The first order of business was the tabletop. Taking out his saw, he began cutting the planks to the precise length he had measured earlier. The saw's teeth glided smoothly through the wood, each stroke producing a rhythmical, soothing sound that echoed within the confines of the cabin.
Next, he set about crafting the legs. Cutting four identical lengths, he ensured each was straight and uniform. With the chisel and mallet, he made slight notches on the top of each leg, providing a snug fit for the tabletop. This detail would not only ensure stability but also give the table a nice, aesthetic touch.
As the main components took shape, Deo took the hammer and nails, fastening the legs to the tabletop. Each nail driven in echoed with the satisfaction of seeing his vision come to life. After securing the final leg, a system notification chimed:
[Rectangular Wooden Table crafted; +60 XP, +4 SP rewarded]
With a satisfied smile, Deo turned his attention to crafting the chairs. Using similar principles as he did with the table, he crafted a seat and backrest, with four legs providing support. Though simpler in design, the ergonomics were essential, and he made sure they offered comfort. After completing his first chair he received another system message:
[Simple Wooden Chair crafted; +15 XP, +1 SP rewarded]
Hours passed, the sun moving across the sky casting shifting patterns of light and shadow through the cabin windows. By the time Deo completed his task, two beautifully crafted wooden chairs stood beside his new table, ready to be used.
Pyro, having grown slightly restless towards the end, trotted over to inspect Deo's handiwork, sniffing the freshly crafted furniture before giving a contented bark of approval.
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Wiping sweat from his brow, Deo took a moment to admire his handiwork. "Well, Pyro," he said with a grin, "looks like we have ourselves a dining area." The table and chairs sat snugly in their designated spot, and the warm tone of the wood added a welcoming touch to the cabin's interior.
"Why not inaugurate the new dining area?" he mused, moving over to his wooden countertop. He pulled out various vegetables he had gathered earlier, along with some fragrant mint. Using a kitchen knife that was hanging above the countertop, he roughly chopped them into smaller pieces.
He then grabbed the cast iron pot and stepped out for a brief moment to fetch water from the nearby lake. After returning, he placed the pot over the fireplace, waiting for it to heat up. As the water warmed, he tossed in the chopped vegetables. Their aroma wafted through the cabin, comforting and familiar. After a while, he added the mint leaves, letting everything simmer into a simple yet fragrant vegetable broth.
The scent wafting through the air made Deo's stomach rumble in anticipation. While it might not be a culinary masterpiece, it promised to be hearty and satisfying.
Pouring the broth into a bowl, Deo took a seat at his newly crafted table. Pyro, sensing it was mealtime, trotted over, sitting by Deo's side, his molten eyes expectantly fixed on the bowl and he let out an impatient bark.
Laughing, Deo said, "Alright, alright, I get the message!" He quickly ladled out a smaller portion for Pyro, which the fiery creature eagerly lapped up.
As they ate, Deo relished the simple pleasure of enjoying a meal at a table he had crafted, using ingredients he had gathered, in a cabin he had built up. There was something deeply gratifying about that. At some point within his bustling preparation of the meal, his most recently acquired skill levelled once again. Realising he hadn’t checked his status in a while, Deo brought it up:
[Status Page]
Name: Deo Mitchell
Race: Human (Outworlder)
Class: Green Mage (Uncommon)
Level: 8
Experience: 5756/7040
Titles: Whisked by Fate's Winds, Cosmic Newcomer (Temporary), Ironbark’s Kin, Giant Slayer, Daring Pioneer
Stats:
* Agility: 18
* Endurance: 24
* Intelligence: 35
* Strength: 17
* Vitality: 31
* Wisdom: 34
* HP: 155/155
* Mana: 156/175
Skills:
Botanical Knowledge (Level 10), Flora Communication (Level 4), Verdant Growth (Level 3), Nature’s Essence (Level 3), Ironbark Armour (Level 3), Leaf in the Wind (Level 3)
Territories:
* Lakeside Homestead
* System Points: 6
Quests:
* Champion of the Wilds
* In the desolate wilds, life clings to existence, struggling to flourish amidst oppressive forces that hinder its expansion. As a guardian of growth, confront and neutralise these challenges to revitalise this troubled dominion.
* Progress: 1/?.
* From Homestead to Hamlet
* Upgrade your homestead to the level of a hamlet.
* Progress: 1/3.
* From Seeds to Harvest
* The soil beckons, and nature's call is clear. With your newfound tools and knowledge, it's time to begin your farming journey. Cultivate, nurture, and see the fruits of your labour grow.
* Progress: 0/4.
* Builder’s Beginnings
* With tools in hand and potential all around, lay the foundation for the future. Every great construction starts with a single brick or plank. It's time to shape your home beyond a basic shelter and craft something that stands as a testament to your efforts.
* Progress: 1/2.
Deo hummed appreciatively as he saw the progress in his building quest and the gradual climb of his skills. "Lots of experience needed for my next level though", he muttered.
After the meal was consumed, the remnants cleared, and his status page reviewed, Deo’s attention was drawn back to the tasks at hand. Specifically, the challenge posed by the farming quest. He fetched the Basics of Farming guidebook from his belongings and laid it open on the table.
The book was comprehensive, detailing everything from the science of soil composition to the art of companion planting. He was particularly interested in the latter, seeing as his quest required him to plant at least 3 different types of seed. Certain plants, when grown together, could mutually benefit from each other. Some deterred pests that might plague their neighbours, while others enriched the soil in ways beneficial to different species.
For example, the guidebook detailed that tomatoes and basil were a classic pairing. Not only did basil help repel pests that could damage tomato plants, but it was also believed that planting them together resulted in better-tasting tomatoes.
On the other hand, certain combinations could be detrimental. Beans and onions, for instance, were poor companions. Beans would struggle in the presence of onions, as they inhibited their growth. It was a natural defence mechanism of the onion to ward off competition.
Similarly, the pairing of cabbage and strawberries was a mismatch. While strawberries attracted a certain type of beetle that loved munching on cabbage, cabbage could potentially hinder the growth of strawberries by competing for vital nutrients.
There was a wealth of knowledge about the dynamics between different plant species. Certain flowers, like marigolds, could deter soil nematodes and other pests, making them valuable companions to many vegetables. Nasturtiums, with their bright flowers, attracted aphids and thus acted as a 'sacrificial plant', luring pests away from more valuable crops.
As Deo engrossed himself in his reading, Pyro began to shuffle restlessly near the door, his amber eyes darting to the outside world. The contained energy of the young creature was palpable. Realising that Pyro was feeling a bit cooped up, Deo looked up from his book, meeting the creature's expectant gaze. "Go on, have a run outside," he suggested gently, pointing towards the open door. "I'll still be here when you get back." Pyro gave a brief, enthusiastic yip in response, before dashing out of the cabin, his form quickly getting lost within the verdant surroundings.
Deo began noting down potential pairings and mismatches, realizing the significance of understanding these relationships. It was like a puzzle, understanding which plant benefited or inhibited the other. He quickly realised he needed to know what plants he had available to him to plan more effectively.
With a burgeoning sense of curiosity, Deo returned to his farming chest, retrieving the seed pouch. He walked back to the table, carefully spilling the diverse array of seeds onto its surface. The mix was a fascinating blend of familiar and exotic. Some seeds were clearly identical to those from Earth, while others were completely foreign.
He began his examination using his Botanical Knowledge, extracting the relevant information:
Crimsonroot
* Tier: Common
* Description: A tuberous plant, the Crimsonroot gets its name from its deep ruby exterior. When sliced open, it reveals concentric circles of varying shades of red. These circles not only add to its visual appeal but also give it a unique layered texture. Often used in salads and stews, its slightly spicy, earthy taste is a favorite among many.
* Properties: Contains essential minerals and acts as a natural repellent for specific underground pests.
* Growth Conditions:
* Soil: Loamy and well-drained. Slightly acidic to neutral pH.
* Sunlight: Prefers partial shade, especially during the peak afternoon hours.
* Water: Moderate; soil should remain moist but not waterlogged.
* Temperature: Thrives in cooler conditions.
Sylphbeans
* Tier: Common
* Description: This slender, green bean grows abundantly on winding vines. Its shiny exterior is complemented by the small white flowers that later turn into bean pods. Often steamed or stir-fried, Sylphbeans have a nutty and slightly sweet taste.
* Properties: Rich in protein and helps fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing the growth environment for neighbouring plants.
* Growth Conditions:
* Soil: Light and sandy with good drainage. Neutral pH.
* Sunlight: Prefers full sunlight, but is versatile enough to thrive in partial shade.
* Water: Regular watering but can tolerate short dry spells.
* Temperature: Enjoys mild conditions.
Golden Grain
* Tier: Common
* Description: This majestic grain plant stands tall, with feathery plumes atop golden stalks when mature. The grain, when ground, results in a rich flour used in a plethora of baked goods. Its gentle sway in the wind is a sight many farmers cherish.
* Properties: Its roots go deep, loosening the soil for future crops, and its tall stalks can provide shade for shorter plants.
* Growth Conditions:
* Soil: Prefers slightly clayey soil which retains moisture but also offers good drainage. Requires nitrogen-rich soil for optimal growth.
* Sunlight: Loves direct sunlight and can withstand the peak intensity.
* Water: Moderate; deep watering is preferred to ensure the root system is well-hydrated.
* Temperature: Prefers warmer days.
With this enhanced knowledge, Deo observed that there was an inherent synergy between these plants. The Sylphbeans could enrich the soil with nitrogen, which the Golden Grain needed. The tall stalks of Golden Grain would also offer some shade, beneficial for Crimsonroot. In return, the Crimsonroot would naturally act as a repellent to pests that would normally affect the other two plants. Planning out this trio's growth in close proximity seemed like a promising start for his farming endeavour.
In addition to the exotic seeds, Deo identified several other familiar ones, including lettuce, basil, and tomato. He recognized the potential for these to form another harmonious grouping, with tomatoes and basil being particularly complementary in both growth and culinary applications. Yet, there was an allure to the unknown, to experimenting with these novel plants of this new world. The idea of cultivating something entirely unfamiliar was an enticing challenge, one that Deo eagerly looked forward to.
Taking a moment to reflect, Deo mentally visualized the layout of a potential farm plot. He thought about the spacing each plant would need, considering their growth conditions and the benefits they provided to one another. Paths for easy access, areas that received varying amounts of sunlight, and the gradient of the land for water drainage all played a role in his mental blueprint. He also thought about tools he might need, like trellises for any climbing plants, or protective barriers against potential pests. This task was as much about logistics as it was about botany. He felt invigorated, with the foundations of a plan forming in his mind. Tomorrow, he resolved, would be the day he began his farming venture in earnest.
Putting aside the guidebook and carefully collecting the seeds, Deo stored them safely back into the chest. The warmth of satisfaction filled him as he thought of the future bounties these seeds would yield, and the dishes he could prepare with the harvest. The day had been full of learning and planning, and he felt that pleasant fatigue of a day well spent.
However, just as he was stretching his tired muscles, an unexpected voice, rich and resonant, yet bearing a hint of weariness, called out from outside the cabin. "Hail, good sir! Might I find welcome at your hearth this eve?"