Chapter 24: Fishing and Firemaking

The sun hung lazily in the afternoon sky, casting long shadows over the land. The air was filled with the soft hum of nature, and the chirping of birds accompanied by the gentle rustling of trees in the breeze. Deo led Caelum down an emerging path to the tranquil banks of the lake, the water’s surface shimmering with golden reflections.

As they neared the lakeside, an unusual scene caught their attention. Pyro, Deo's lively hellhound puppy, was standing statue-still in the shallow waters. The glimmering sunlight made his black and reddish fur appear as though it was softly burning, and there was a striking beauty in the way his fiery form contrasted with the serene water.

Deo motioned for Caelum to sit down on a nearby boulder. "Before we cast our lines," he began, pointing to the transfixed Pyro, "I want you to observe something. Fishing isn’t just about the physical act. It’s a lesson in patience and understanding the habits of those you're trying to connect with."

Caelum's gaze remained fixed on Pyro, waiting for the next move. As the minutes passed and the gentle ripples of the water caressed Pyro's paws, the fish began to regain their confidence, swimming closer to the motionless puppy. Then, in a sudden burst of speed, Pyro's jaws clamped onto a fish. Triumphantly, he trotted out of the water, fish in mouth, to present his catch to the two onlookers.

With wide eyes, Caelum whispered, "That was amazing!"

Deo grinned. "Pyro has his ways. Now, let's see if we can match his success, shall we?"

Deo leaned down, giving Pyro a hearty pat on his head, praising him for his successful catch. The young hellhound wagged his tail vigorously and trotted away, eager to enjoy the fruits of his labour.

Taking the single fishing rod, Deo baited the hook and handed it over to Caelum, giving him a brief tutorial on casting. Once the line was cast, Deo settled beside the young boy, watching the float bob gently on the lake's surface.

"After you've had a go, I'll take a turn," Deo said, turning to Caelum. "You know, there's more to being a Green Mage than just the fancy tools and spells. It's about understanding, respecting, and connecting with the natural world."

Caelum glanced up from the rod, curious eyes meeting Deo's. "What do you mean?"

"Nature has its own rhythm, its own way of life. As a Green Mage, our role is to understand that rhythm, to live in harmony with it. Every tree, every animal, and even this lake have their own stories to tell. We're just here to listen and to help where we can."

The young boy nodded slowly, absorbing the words. "It sounds... peaceful."

Deo chuckled, "Most of the time, yes. But nature can be wild and unpredictable too. That's why we learn, to ensure we can face those challenges head-on, whether it's a drought affecting the crops or wild creatures causing trouble."

Suddenly, the float on Caelum's line jerked, drawing his attention. "I think I've got a bite!" he exclaimed.

Deo grinned, "Remember, patience and understanding. Every fish has its rhythm too."

Caelum focused intently, feeling the tug and pull of the line. However, after a few moments, the tension eased, and the float settled back into its idle state on the water's surface. The fish had managed to escape without taking the bait.

Deo gently pat Caelum's shoulder, "It happens. It's all part of the experience. The fish may have won this round, but it's taught us to be even more attentive for the next one."

Together, they recast the line, enjoying the calmness of the moment and the deeper connection they were fostering with the world around them.

Caelum looked over, his young face curious. "Deo, how do you know so much about fishing?"

Deo took a deep breath, and for a moment, a faraway look crept into his eyes, a hint of dampness forming at the corners. "A long time ago, in a place very different from here, I used to go fishing with my older brother. We'd spend hours by the waterside, just like this, casting our lines and waiting patiently. Those moments... they were simple, but they were some of the happiest memories I've ever had."

The boy noticed the emotional shift in Deo and hesitated for a moment, weighing his next words. "It sounds really special. I'm sorry if I brought up any painful memories."

Deo shook his head with a small smile, looking down at Caelum reassuringly. "No, don't be. Those memories are precious to me. And now, being here with you, teaching and sharing these moments... it's like I get to relive them in a new and beautiful way."

Caelum smiled back, warmed by the sentiment. The two continued their fishing in companionable silence, enjoying the tranquil rhythm of nature.

After a brief moment of stillness, Deo felt a strong tug on his fishing line. He gripped the rod tighter and carefully began reeling it in, feeling the weight and strength of the fish at the other end. Caelum's eyes widened in excitement as Deo steadily drew the fish closer to the shore.

And then, with a splash and shimmer of silver, a large fish was brought out of the water and onto the grassy bank. Its silvery scales reflected the sunlight, making it appear as though it was lined with thin threads of pure silver.

As Caelum marvelled at the beauty of the fish, Deo activated his Wildlife Insights skill, and a translucent interface appeared before him, displaying information about the carp:

Silverline Carp

* Level: 3

* Tier: Uncommon

* Lifespan: Typically 5-7 years in freshwater habitats. Current age: 1 year, 3 months.

* Diet: Omnivorous. Mainly feeds on water plants, smaller fish, and occasionally insects.

* Maturity: Reaches early adulthood at 1 year. Full maturity by 3 years.

* Strengths: Exceptional ability to blend into water surfaces, acute senses.

* Weaknesses: Poor manoeuvrability in strong currents, attracted to shiny objects.

* Behaviours: Known to migrate upstream during breeding seasons. Tends to stay near the water surface during dawn and dusk.

* Description: The Silverline Carp is a freshwater fish renowned for its silvery scales that give it a unique and mesmerizing appearance. Though they're often sought after for their beauty, they are also known to be cunning, using their reflective scales to distract and escape from predators. A symbol of prosperity in many cultures, catching one is often considered a good omen.

[Experience Gained: +18 XP]

Holding the fish up for Caelum to see, Deo shared, "This is a Silverline Carp. It's just over a year old and feeds mainly on water plants and smaller fish. They are known to stay near the water surface during the early and late hours of the day, which is probably why we were able to catch it."

Caelum's eyes widened in fascination. "Your skill is so detailed. You could learn so much about creatures with that skill."

Gently, Deo cradled the fish in his hands and began to approach the water. "We can, but it's also our responsibility to respect nature." With a gentle motion, he released the fish back into the water. "Especially young ones like this, they have a full life ahead of them. It's essential to take only what we need and ensure that nature continues to thrive."

Caelum watched the fish swim away, a thoughtful expression on his face. "That's a good lesson, Deo. Nature gives us so much; we should give back when we can."

Deo nodded, smiling down at the boy. "Exactly, Caelum. It's all about balance."

As the sun steadily climbed its zenith, the tranquil lake became a shared sanctuary for the mentor and his young protégé. The gentle lapping of the water against the shore and the distant hum of the forest provided a serene backdrop for their shared moments.

Deo showed Caelum the intricacies of fishing — from understanding the depth at which different fish might be found to the art of being patient and how different weather could impact a day's catch. Caelum listened with rapt attention, trying his hand at casting the line, often with Deo guiding him. Several times, the float would bob, indicating a bite, but the fish would evade them. Each miss was met with a shared chuckle and renewed determination.

Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.

While they waited for bites, the two conversed about various topics. Deo spoke more of the essence of being a Green Mage, detailing stories of unique encounters with flora and fauna, the importance of understanding ecosystems, and the balance between taking and giving. Caelum, in turn, shared stories of his life in the village, the games children played, and his dreams for the future.

Occasionally, they would catch a fish, and Deo would use the opportunity to teach Caelum about its characteristics and habits. With each catch, Caelum's admiration for nature's bounty grew, echoing the lessons Deo instilled in him about respecting every life.

The hours seemed to melt away, and before they realized it, the sun was starting its descent, painting the sky in hues of oranges and purples. The air grew cooler, and the sounds of evening critters began their harmonious orchestra.

Deo packed up the fishing gear, and with a satisfied sigh, he looked over to Caelum, "We've had a good day, haven't we?"

Caelum, his face flushed with the glow of the setting sun and a day well spent, nodded with a grin, "One of the best."

The duo made their way from the tranquil shores of the lake, the comforting chirps of crickets and distant call of birds guiding them through the growing dusk.

Deo and Caelum approached the clearing, the setting sun casting a warm, golden hue over the cabins. To Deo's surprise, where there had once been a partially constructed structure earlier in the day, there now stood a cozy, fully-built log cabin tailored to the smaller stature of its halfling occupants.

The exterior of the cabin was crafted from finely hewn logs, stacked seamlessly to form sturdy walls. A quaint porch wrapped around the entrance, with two downsized rocking chairs and a few potted plants, lending a touch of hominess to the facade.

Bending down whilst stepping inside, the living area revealed itself to be an open, inviting space. On the right was a comfortable sitting area furnished with a low-set couch and two armchairs, all surrounding a wooden table. Walls were graced with paintings of serene landscapes, interspersed with brackets holding candles for illumination.

Further in, a petite dining nook was evident with a circular table surrounded by three chairs. The modest kitchenette was adjacent, featuring a wooden counter and shelves brimming with essential kitchen tools and utensils.

Two doors led from the main area to individual bedrooms, one for Thalen and the other for Caelum. Each room was snug and welcoming, with a bed scaled to halfling comfort, a small wardrobe, and a chest for personal belongings.

In wonder, Deo queried, "Thalen, how did you manage all of this?"

Thalen, arranging a few items on a shelf, grunted back, "Elder Elara lent me a bag of holding. Makes things a lot easier."

As the trio admired the new cabin and its cozy furnishings, the door creaked open to reveal Lena, her hands dusted with a fine layer of flour, indicating she'd been at work on some culinary endeavour. "You know," she began, her eyes twinkling with warmth, "I was thinking about cooking up an evening meal. We've had quite the productive day; why not celebrate it a bit? We could set up outside, enjoy the fresh air."

"That sounds perfect, Lena," Deo replied, his eyes lighting up. "Let's do that." Deo turned to Caelum, a mischievous smile forming. “I’ve got just the final skill to show you. Caelum, come with me!” He winked at Lena, leaving her curious but amused.

Thalen gave a noncommittal grunt, though there was no real displeasure in it. He then ambled outside and settled into his rocking chair, the contentment of a long day's hard work evident in his relaxed posture.

As Deo and Caelum headed out, Deo's gaze drifted towards the field, noticing the freshly laid foundations for a barn next to his growing crops. It seemed Thalen and Lena had been able to achieve more than just the cabin today. The precision of the placement spoke of Thalen's meticulous eye for detail, even in such foundational tasks.

With the setting sun casting a golden hue over the surroundings, Deo then turned back to Caelum. "Alright, young man," he said with an encouraging nudge. "Let's get some wood from the stockpile and make ourselves a big bonfire for the evening. And don’t you worry about kindling; I have a plan."

Near the cabins, a dwindling stockpile of wood remained, evidence of its use in the recent cabin construction. Deo and Caelum made their way over, selecting the best pieces for their bonfire. Deo, utilizing his strength, carried the bulkier logs, while Caelum efficiently handled the medium and smaller branches.

As they began stacking the wood, Deo shared the intricacies of creating an effective bonfire with Caelum. "For a long-lasting fire, we need a blend of wood sizes," he explained. "The medium branches will sustain the initial flames, while the larger logs, once ignited, will ensure it burns for hours."

Caelum absorbed the information eagerly, nodding along. "And where does the tinder go?" he questioned out of curiosity.

"In most fires, tinder is essential as it's the easiest to ignite," Deo elaborated. "It'd usually go at the base, catching the initial spark and setting the kindling aflame, which in turn lights the larger pieces. But for our purposes tonight, we won't be needing it."

The two continued to work together, placing the larger logs at the bottom, then layering on the medium-sized branches with care to allow air to circulate freely. Soon, a sturdy pyramid of wood stood in the clearing, ready to light up the night.

Deo looked at the pyramid of logs and branches they had just constructed, then turned to Caelum with an excited grin. "Alright, young lad, take a step back and watch the magic unfold."

With a deep, steadying breath, Deo grounded himself, feeling the familiar energy of his bond with Pyro. Holding his staff out horizontally, he invoked his latest skill, Inferno Pulse. Immediately, a scorching sensation flowed through him, converging at the base of his staff.

The next moment, a radiant surge of flames erupted. They were a deep crimson in the centre, expanding to a bright orange, and finally edged with blazing yellow. The flames didn't stream out continuously but pulsed rhythmically, with every burst more impressive than its predecessor. The heat emanated in waves, making the atmosphere waver with its intensity.

[Skill Level Up! Inferno Pulse has reached Level 2! Increases ability to control and shape the flames.]

Caelum watched in awe, his eyes wide and bright. The fire licked the wood pyramid, each pulse consuming more of the stack, until the entire structure was ablaze with roaring flames. In contrast to his earlier experimentation with the power, this use of Inferno Pulse felt more measured and deliberate, showcasing Deo's growth in mastering the skill.

Once certain the bonfire was sufficiently lit, Deo lowered his staff, a satisfied grin on his face. "How's that for a start to the evening, Caelum?"

Caelum's mouth hung open for a moment, his eyes reflecting the dancing flames of the bonfire. "That was... incredible," he whispered, his voice filled with awe. He looked up at Deo, a sparkle of inspiration evident in his gaze.

Caelum hesitated a moment before asking, "But, Deo, aren't you a Green Mage? How can you wield fire like that?"

Deo chuckled softly, lowering himself to be eye level with the boy. "That's a good question. You see, part of being a Green Mage means forming bonds with creatures. My bond with Pyro, my hellhound companion, gifted me with this fiery ability. We share a connection that allows me to tap into some of his elemental nature."

Caelum's eyes widened even more, trying to wrap his young mind around the concept. "So you can use powers from the creatures you bond with?"

"In a way, yes," Deo responded. "Each bond is unique, and the skills or abilities I can glean from them vary. But the bond with Pyro is particularly... fiery." He winked, causing Caelum to let out a soft chuckle.

As if to punctuate Deo's words and demonstrate those very fiery qualities, Pyro himself sauntered into the scene. With an unhurried grace, the hellhound approached the roaring bonfire, showing no hesitation or discomfort. The vibrant play of flames reflected in his deep, ember-like eyes, highlighting the eternal fire that dwelled within him.

He came to a stop just beside the inferno, allowing its waves of heat to wash over him. Pyro then gracefully lowered himself onto the ground, resting his snout atop his crossed paws. Each rise and fall of his chest was synchronized with the pulsating rhythm of the fire. There, right beside the blazing heart of the bonfire, Pyro found his haven, basking in the glow and warmth that seemed to resonate with his very soul.

Just as the two were about to sit down, the aroma of delicious food wafted through the air. Lena approached, her hands full of dishes wrapped in cloth to keep them warm. She had prepared a savoury stew, fresh-baked bread, and a salad made from wild greens.

Thalen, having risen from his rocking chair, approached the bonfire to partake in the meal. He grunted appreciatively at the spread and began to serve himself generously. The evening settled into a pleasant rhythm of laughter, shared stories, and the comforting warmth of companionship and good food.

The evening was filled with relaxed chatter. Thalen, in his typical understated manner, recounted brief tales of hunting dangerous beasts in the wild. The way he told them hinted at omitted details and a tendency to underplay his own bravery. Lena shared culinary stories, discussing exotic ingredients she'd encountered and the unique dishes she'd crafted from them, her eyes sparkling with passion. Caelum, growing more comfortable, began to ask Deo about the different spells he knew and how he had learned them.

The air was filled with the sound of laughter, the warmth of the bonfire, and the comforting scent of the food. As the night deepened and the embers of the fire began to glow faintly, a sense of growing camaraderie settled around the group.

Finally, with heavy eyelids and contented sighs, they all decided to retire for the night. Lena bid them goodnight, heading to her cabin. Thalen gave a stretch, mumbling something about "another day well gone," as he made his way to his cabin. Deo ruffled Caelum's hair, watching as the boy entered the cabin with a soft smile on his face. With one last glance at the remnants of the bonfire, Deo headed to his own cabin, Pyro following closely behind, the promise of tomorrow already beckoning.

Deo entered his cabin, the comforting homely aroma surrounding him. Exhausted from the day's events, he took a moment to undress and neatly place his gear aside. He then lay down, the softness of his bed lulling him into a gentle slumber almost instantly. Pyro settled nearby, his body radiating a comforting warmth.

The morning sun hadn’t risen yet when Deo was suddenly jolted awake by a series of pings in his mind. Groggily rubbing his eyes, he focused on the cascading notifications flashing before him:

[You have successfully grown a crop of Sylphbeans! +1000 XP, +20 SP awarded.]

[You have successfully grown a crop of Golden Grain! +1000 XP, +20 SP awarded.]

[You have successfully grown a crop of Crimsonroot! +1000 XP, +20 SP awarded.]

[Congratulations! You've levelled up! You are now level 12]

[Congratulations! You've levelled up! You are now level 13]