Chapter 9: Foundations and Folly
Deo's fingers moved in rapid succession as he decisively tapped the options for the Farming Tools Starter Bundle, the Basic Construction Tools Starter Bundle, and the Makeshift Shelter Enhancement. With each selection, a confirmation prompt appeared on the screen.
Purchase Confirmation:
* Farming Tools Starter Bundle - 50 SP
* Basic Construction Tools Starter Bundle - 70 SP
* Makeshift Shelter Enhancement - 150 SP
Total SP to be deducted: 270 SP
Current SP balance: 270 SP
Confirm Purchase? [YES/NO]
After a quick glance at his SP balance, Deo tapped 'YES', feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation.
As soon as the transaction was confirmed, the system provided a notification:
[Transaction Successful! You have purchased the Farming Tools Starter Bundle, Basic Construction Tools Starter Bundle, and Makeshift Shelter Enhancement. Your SP have been deducted. Remaining SP balance: 0 SP.]
Almost immediately, two intricately designed chests began to materialise out of thin air before Deo, each surrounded by a shimmering aura of light that gradually faded, leaving the chests to settle softly on the ground.
The first chest, designated for the farming tools, was crafted from a light-hued wood. Its grain patterns were reminiscent of rolling fields of grain, swaying under a gentle breeze. Bronze trimmings decorated its corners, providing not just structural support but also a touch of elegance. The latch, made of a similar bronze, was shaped like a sheaf of wheat, symbolizing its agricultural contents. Delicate carvings of various plants danced across its lid, displaying meticulous artistry.
Beside it was the second chest containing construction tools. This one was made from a darker, almost mahogany-like wood, with silver metallic edges reinforcing its structure. The latch was an artistic representation of a hammer crossed with a saw, indicating the chest's purpose. On the lid, there was a detailed carving of a majestic building, possibly a castle or a grand manor, surrounded by trees and a flowing river. It hinted at the potential that lay within, a promise of structures yet to be erected.
However, what caught his attention the most was the sudden change in his makeshift shelter. The landscape was suddenly alight with an ethereal glow as Deo's makeshift shelter began its transformative journey. A luminescent aura, tinted with a soft golden hue, enveloped the entire structure, causing the materials it was made of to shimmer as they underwent rapid metamorphosis. The light was so intense it made the surroundings pale in comparison, casting elongated shadows of trees and plants in the area.
As Deo shielded his eyes, he noticed the original Greenpipe framework starting to meld and evolve. The skeletal Greenpipe stalks, which were once the primary support, thickened and transformed into sturdy wooden beams, fortifying the foundation and ensuring a lasting durability.
The once-woven walls of Lakeside Reeds soon were no more. They began to merge, thickening into solid panels, which were then seamlessly replaced by a robust, plank-like material. Over this, a layer of clay was seamlessly applied, creating a weatherproof seal that rendered the shelter impervious to external conditions and a significantly more fortified barrier against the outside world, guaranteeing warmth and safety within.
The roof underwent a significant renovation as well. The interwoven Lakeside Reeds and Waxleaf Ferns dissolved, making way for a professionally thatched roof. The new roofing was dense and tight, promising protection against the harshest of rains and the fiercest of suns.
Underneath Deo's feet, a curious transformation began. The soft dirt and grass, which had previously been the ground of his shelter, began to rise and reshape. It was like witnessing the birth of a wooden entity, as the dirt knitted together, giving way to rich, caramel-toned wooden boards. These planks interlocked seamlessly, grain patterns flowing beautifully from one to the next. The warm hue of the wood exuded an inviting aura, contrasting the earthy surroundings. This transformation wasn't limited to the shelter's interior. The wooden platform extended a few feet outside the entrance, forming a small porch-like area. This extension gave the structure a sense of completeness, offering a transitional space from the wilderness outside to the comfort within, and providing a spot where one could sit, relax, and enjoy the view.
Amidst the rapid transformation of the shelter, particular details began to manifest that denoted care, functionality, and a touch of personalization.
To the front of the dwelling, where previously there was only an open entrance, a door began to form. It wasn't just any door, but a substantial, heavy-set piece constructed from rich, dark timber. The wood bore the markings of age and endurance, with grain patterns that spiralled and twisted in intricate designs. Sturdy iron hinges attached it to the frame, and a matching handle, ornate in its simplicity, was affixed to its centre. But what truly stood out was the familiar emblem of a green leaf, intricately etched into the wood - the very same emblem that graced Deo's robes. This door promised not just an entry but a seal of Deo's identity, offering sanctuary and security.
The walls underwent a further metamorphosis. On either side of the structure, rectangular cut-outs emerged, soon framed by the same rich timber that formed the door. Wooden shutters, with their slatted design, flanked these openings. They were both functional and aesthetic, allowing the choice of letting in the day's brilliance or shutting out the world for privacy. Finally, slightly off-centre atop the newly thatched roof, a structure began to take shape. Layers of smooth, refined clay built upwards, forming a sturdy chimney. The clay bore a soft earthen hue, seamlessly integrating with the natural surroundings of the shelter.
Seeing the final product, Deo approached the revamped cabin, his footsteps echoing slightly on the new wooden platform. Pyro, sensing the excitement, barked joyously and pranced about. Taking a deep breath, Deo grasped the door handle, eager to explore the enhanced interior of what was now undeniably his new home. Stepping inside, he took a moment to let his eyes adjust to the change in lighting. Sunlight streamed in through a few small windows, casting a warm glow inside.
Inside, the shelter had expanded, giving it a more spacious and breathable atmosphere. The original sleeping area, once just a pile of Marsh Rushes, now hosted a raised wooden platform, covered in a soft padded material for superior comfort. Nestled next to it, a smaller platform had emerged, complete with a cushioned surface, undoubtedly a bed for Pyro. Deo chuckled as Pyro made a beeline for his new bed, circling it a few times before settling down with a contented sigh.
Opposite the sleeping area, the far end of the cabin featured a modest fireplace, neatly constructed from gleaming stones. Its base was broad and deep, promising long hours of warmth, with the interior lined with firebricks, ensuring efficient burning and heat distribution. Above the firepit, the chimney extended, skilfully built from clay, directing the smoke seamlessly outside. The mantle, a thick slab of polished wood, crowned the fireplace, providing a spot to place any decorative items or essentials.
On one side of the fireplace, a metal grilling area was ingeniously built-in, allowing for versatile cooking—be it roasting, grilling, or even stewing with the help of a hanging pot. A few logs were already stacked neatly by the side, a starter kit for the many cozy nights ahead.
Next to the fireplace stood a robust wooden countertop, polished and smooth, with a range of basic cooking implements hanging neatly above. Beneath the counter, shelves had been added, providing ample space for storage of ingredients and other kitchen essentials. Adjacent to this was a clay basin with a simple faucet—albeit not connected to a water source yet—offering a convenient spot for cleaning and washing.
Lying contentedly in his new bed, Pyro cocked his head curiously towards Deo, as if to ask what he thought of their new home. Grinning, Deo remarked, "It's not a palace, but it's definitely a home”. Delighted with the upgrade of his makeshift shelter, Deo turned, the pull of anticipation tugging at him once more, and stepped back out onto the extended wooden platform. The sun, high in the azure sky, poured a radiant light over the verdant expanse, making the morning feel alive with possibility. Pyro, deeming the adventure outside worth leaving his plush new bed for, trotted beside him, tail waving in a brisk rhythm.
This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
The two chests, with their intricate designs, awaited them, sitting side by side on the grass, adjacent to the cabin's platform. Their craftsmanship stood out even more under the brilliant sunlight.
Approaching the chest etched with grain patterns reminiscent of rolling farmlands, Deo reached out. The cool wood beneath his fingers seemed to hum subtly, a testament to the magic that had birthed these containers into existence. He unlatched and slowly lifted the lid. Inside, the dark velvet lining provided a stark contrast to the tools' polished surfaces, each nested in a designated slot.
His gaze landed first on the hand trowel, with its ergonomic handle and gleaming dish. He couldn't help but compare it to the trowel from his herbalist's kit. "Definitely heftier," he mused, appreciating its slightly larger size. "What's better than one trowel? Two trowels!"
Beside the trowel was a wooden hoe. Its long, polished wooden handle met a wide flat blade, crafted to perfection. Clearly, it was designed for tilling larger patches of soil, preparing them for cultivation. Adjacent to the hoe was something quite interesting: a handheld seed drill. It consisted of a wooden frame with a cylindrical compartment, designed to release seeds at regular intervals. This would allow for systematic planting, ensuring consistency in row spacing. A large watering can, made of a sturdy metal, sat next to the seed drill.
Tucked neatly on one side was a packet with an assortment of seeds. Upon a brief inspection, Deo noticed a variety of seeds - from common vegetables to some unfamiliar ones, all waiting to be sown and nurtured. Lying nearby was a small pouch containing the basic fertiliser.
A folded sheaf of papers lay nestled in one corner of the chest: the basic blueprint set. Deo could see the detailed diagrams and sketches peeking from the edges. These would guide him in constructing farming structures, from raised beds to basic greenhouses. Lastly, beneath all the tools was an instructional guidebook titled Basics of Farming. The book seemed comprehensive, covering everything from soil preparation to crop rotation. This would undoubtedly be his go-to resource as he embarked on his farming journey.
Having evaluated the entire contents, Deo carefully closed the chest, securing its latch. He took a moment to appreciate its weight and sturdiness, then, bending slightly, wrapped his fingers around the chest's sides. Taking a deep breath, he lifted it. The chest was surprisingly lighter than he expected, making the task manageable. With steady steps, he carried the chest towards his new cabin and placed it down gently in a convenient corner of his living space.
Exiting the cabin, Deo approached his final purchase, the second intricately carved chest, its wooden exterior adorned with designs reminiscent of construction and crafting. The chest's latch gleamed in the mid-morning sun, hinting at the tools and blueprints stored within.
Deo carefully unlatched and opened the second chest, revealing the gleaming tools of a craftsman. The chest's interior was thoughtfully designed, with recessed compartments tailored to fit each instrument, all enveloped in the rich, reddish hue of the wood.
Immediately, his eyes were drawn to a robust hammer, its polished wooden handle contrasting against the cold, gleaming metal head. Nestled alongside the hammer were rows of uniform, sharp-tipped nails. Beside them, a small lumberjack's axe lay cradled in a fitted groove, its blade shimmering in the sunlight filtering in. Nearby, a wooden saw beckoned with serrated teeth, ready to transform logs into planks and boards.
Tucked to one side, he found a chisel paired with a mallet. The chisel's edge was sharp, and the mallet's rounded head seemed perfect for delivering precise strikes, hinting at the detailed woodworking that lay ahead. A neatly coiled measuring tape, nestled neatly within the chest, promised precision in every building task.
In one corner of the chest, a rolled-up bundle caught his attention. Unfurling it, Deo discovered a set of blueprints, detailed sketches illustrating various basic structures and furnishings. Each drawing was annotated with measurements and notes, offering guidance for his future projects.
Lastly, beneath the blueprints, an instructional guidebook titled Basics of Construction lay waiting. Its cover depicted a hammer crossed with a saw, inviting him to delve into its pages and absorb the foundational techniques of building.
Appreciating the potential of each tool and resource, Deo gently closed the chest, securing its contents. With a determined grip, he lifted the chest, making his way to the cabin. Once inside, he placed it next to the farming chest, side by side, a testament to the new paths that now lay open before him.
As Deo straightened up after placing the chest, the world around him seemed to momentarily blur. The familiar chirp of a system notification echoed in his ears and two quests appeared in front of him.
Quest: 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:
1. Clear a patch of land for farming.
2. Prepare the soil using the provided tools.
3. Plant at least three different types of seeds.
4. Harvest your first crop
Rewards: +900 XP, 25 SP, Title
Note: Don’t forget to refer to your Basics of Farming guidebook for helpful tips!
Quest: 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. Craft three new furnishings.
2. Construct one new structure.
Rewards: +1200 XP, 35 SP, Title
Note: Your Basics of Construction might offer some inspiration!
Deo stared at the two quests displayed before him, feeling a thrill of excitement coursing through his veins. The tasks seemed clear and achievable, but more than that, they represented the first tangible steps in his journey in this world. The rewards, too, were generous, further motivating him to get started.
"I've got tools, knowledge, and the land. Now it's all about putting in the effort," he whispered to himself, determination evident in his eyes.
With the prospect of diving into his new tasks, Deo wanted a comfortable spot to familiarize himself with the guidebooks. He rummaged in his newly arranged home and pulled out both the Basics of Farming and Basics of Construction guidebooks. Clutching them to his chest, he made his way outside, seeking the perfect reading spot.
The sun was slightly higher now, its golden rays dappled through the trees. Birds sung, filling the morning with a sweet symphony. Deo strolled, letting his feet guide him. Soon, he found himself under a grand old tree, its broad branches offering shade and its roots making for a comfortable backrest.
As he settled down, Pyro trotted over, curling up beside him with a soft yawn. Deo smiled, giving the pup a quick pat on the head before flipping open the first guidebook.
Hours seemed to meld into one another, the lines of text and detailed diagrams from the guidebooks weaving a tapestry of knowledge within Deo's mind. The world around him became a soft blur as he lost himself in the intricacies of farming techniques, crop rotations, the properties of various types of timber, joinery methods, and more. It felt as if he had absorbed a lifetime's worth of wisdom in just a few short hours.
Eventually, as he set the books aside, the intensity of his focus gave way to a hint of weariness. Rubbing his temples, Deo felt the strain of information overload. He needed a break, a distraction, something lighter to occupy his mind.
Gazing around, his eyes settled on a leafy bush nearby. Drawing on Botanical Knowledge, he approached and identified it as a common Selwood bush, recognised by its vibrant green leaves and tiny white blossoms. An idea struck him, whimsical in its spontaneity. "What if," he pondered aloud, "I tried to harness Nature's Essence on something as simple as this bush?"
The memory of his recent failure with the Sylvanum was still fresh, but this would be different. "No harm in trying," he mused, extending a hand towards the bush, concentrating and hoping to tap into that elusive power once more.
The world around him seemed to dim slightly as his focus intensified. The plant’s life energy surged forth, mingling with his own essence. For a moment, he felt a unity, a kinship with the simple bush.
Suddenly, notifications appeared:
[New Skill Acquired: Leaf in the Wind. Activate to gain a temporary boost (+1) to agility. Drains mana whilst active.]
[Skill Level Up! Nature's Essence has levelled up to Level 3!]
[Note: Nature’s Essence can only bond with a limited number of plants, determined by the skill’s level up, with each bond created levelling the skill. Skills are capped to 25 levels and bonds are permanent and non-reversible. It is recommended to select bonds more carefully in the future to maximize potential benefits and growth.]
Deo blinked in surprise. This impulsive experiment had consequences. He sighed heavily, the weight of regret pressing down on him. "Leaf in the Wind? Really, Deo? Of all the plants out here, I bond with a common... bush?!"
The subsequent system alert was like salt to a wound. Deo realized he might have squandered a potential valuable level, when it could have been used on something far more meaningful and beneficial. "All skills capped at Level 25... I can't be careless. Every choice matters."
Rubbing his temples, he tried to shake off the annoyance. "I need to be more strategic. With so much potential out here, wasting my skills like this... it's not just thoughtless, it's reckless."
Determined to make up for his earlier blunder, Deo made his way back to the homestead, guides in tow, activating his latest skill.