Entering a station for the second time was a much more pleasant experience. Nick materialized into a familiar room of white walls and clean lighting but the room contained a mix of comfortable chairs and a conference table appropriately sized for his group. The table and chairs were made of the same material as the walls and their stark white appearance made the place feel like a sterile operating room.
A moment after appearing the other four members of Nick's group materialized into existence an arms length apart. The small group only took a moment to orient themselves before finding seats at the table and directing their attention to Nick who was still trying to mentally bridge the gap between the medieval setting of the town they came from and the almost futuristic setting of the station.
He cleared his throat before diving into the discussion while at the same time clearing his jumbled thoughts on the situation. He focused on the reason they had come to the station.
“Vander are you able to interact with the local station and give us information about the contract being offered for the frontier work?"
“Certainly."
A typical station screen appeared across the table showing the contract issued by the Kingdom of Repstrom.
“The Hommel Queens seem to be of particular focus" Nick said as he reviewed the contract details and noticed the significant bounty being offered.
"The Hommel Queens are responsible for leading hives of Hommel workers, soldiers, and drones. It is a common trait for hive mind creatures to be led by single individuals. The death of a queen will significantly reduce the coordination of the hive, especially the drones. Additionally, the Queens are responsible for reproduction of new spawn which develop into workers and soldiers over time. Eliminating the queen prevents hives from replenishing their lost numbers.” Vander explained.
Nick nodded along thoughtfully. The monsters seemed eerily similar to what he knew about hives of bugs from Earth. His mind briefly recalled the movie he saw as a kid where alien bug monsters fought humanity across solar systems. The scene of a soldier having his brain sucked out of their head haunted his dreams for months after. He shuddered at the thought before refocusing on the contract laid out before him, expanding it in order to see the contract in its entirety.
—
Monster Subjugation Contract
Issued by the Kingdom of Repstrom
City of Crosston, Year 1182 of the Second Era
—
The Kingdom of Repstrom seeks capable individuals or groups to aid in the expansion of its southern borders. The untamed southern regions have been impeded by the infestation of dangerous creatures known as Hommels. These hive-mind insects pose a significant threat to the kingdom's efforts to claim and secure this vital location.
Contract Objectives
Eliminate Hommel Hives
- All nests, tunnels, and other hive structures in the targeted southern region must be destroyed.
- Report any major infestations to ensure the area is fully cleared of Hommel presence.
Neutralize Queens
- The Hommel queens are the heart of the hive. Their elimination is critical to ensuring the infestation does not return. Each queen exterminated will result in a substantial bonus reward of 5 gold per queen.
Assist in Securing the Station Site
- If the Station site becomes accessible during the course of your mission, provide assistance to kingdom forces in securing the area.
Threat Details
- Species: Hive-mind insectoid creatures with immense strength in numbers.
- Behavior: Highly aggressive when protecting their hives, and known to coordinate attacks through their hive-mind connection.
Notable Classifications
Drones:
- Function: Mobile scouts and messengers for the hive.
- Traits: Smaller but faster than soldiers, weakest member of the hive
Workers:
- Function: Basic laborers and gatherers, but will swarm enemies in large numbers.
- Traits: Relatively weak, but overwhelming in large groups.
Soldiers:
- Function: Hive defenders, larger and more dangerous than workers.
- Traits: Armored exoskeleton, venomous stingers or acidic saliva capable of melting metal.
Queens:
- Function: Hive leaders and reproducers. Rare but critical to the hive’s survival.
- Traits: Immense size, heavily guarded, and capable of birthing new swarms rapidly. .
Bounties
- Drones: 1 silver each
- Workers: 2 silver each
- Soldiers: 5 silver each
- Queens: 5 gold each
Additional Rewards: Mercenary groups or individuals who assist in the capture of the Station site will receive 1 gold per cycle spent defending the station while subjection is pending.
Terms of Agreement
- All participants are required to register at the Station in Crosston and maintain a station reputation of 5 or more.
- A map of the designated area and known hive locations will be provided upon acceptance of the contract.
- Proof of completion (e.g., Hommel remains) must be presented or sold at the Crosston Station to claim payment.
- Participants must comply with the laws and directives of the Kingdom of Repstrom throughout the duration of the contract.
Penalties for Failure
Failure to abide by the contract terms will result in forfeiture of any upfront payments or guarantees and penalty to reputation. Any individuals caught sabotaging kingdom operations in the area will face severe penalties, including possible imprisonment.
Signed and Sealed by Order of King Eldric V of Repstrom
For glory and the Kingdom of Repstrom!
—
“Seems straightforward, but requiring the return of monster remains to the Crosston station is going to be problematic.” Nick said thoughtfully.
"The use of your personal station skill should allow us to bypass the requirement for a small transfer fee. The contract specifies the Crosston station to enable the local station owner can track and pay appropriate bounties. Due to the proximity, a small transfer fee will allow monster remains to be sold through the Crosston station from your personal station node." Vander explained.
“That's a relief. What would stop someone from simply buying monster remains and reselling them in Crosston to claim the bounty?" Nick asked as he instantly thought about how to take advantage of such a system.
“The station contract prohibits those sorts of activity and if attempted the contract can be terminated by the originator and a reputational penalty will be assessed. The station network strictly enforces contracts to maintain the integrity of the system.” Larissa said with a grim look.
“We have seen the reputation damages firsthand for poorly managed contracts.” Nuri added sourly after a moment.
"Interesting…that brings up another question. What prevents someone from starting a new company everytime they accept a contract to reset their reputation and avoid any prior penalties?" Nick asked.
“Reputation is tied to individuals. The company reputation reflects your own as the sole proprietor of the company. Typically contracts are created for any number of tasks and even children accept them as station contracts are the most effective way to ensure terms are enforced.” Vander explained.
Nick checked the status screen and was surpsied to see his reputation was currently sitting at 10/10.
"Does everyone start with a perfect reputation score?”
"Correct.” Vander replied without further explanation.
Nick considered the implications of such a system. It would mean his company was going to be dependent on ensuring he maintained a high reputation or it could quickly result in the inability to accept contracts. While the reputation system was helpful in some ways it could be punishing for others as he had seen for the Nightfall sisters. Most contract originators were more strict on accepting low reputation units.
This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
After a few more minutes reviewing the contract, Nick felt confident it offered them a good opportunity. He reached across the table and selected Accept Contract on a screen that appeared above the table once the full contract had been displayed.
Contract Accepted.
Without any fanfare the contract was added to the list of open contracts under the Solis Trading Cooperative status.
“A little underwhelming." Nick joked.
The comment fell flat as he looked up from the table.
He cleared his throat before continuing. “I think we should discuss additional supplies we may need before setting off. Without any healers or support members in the company perhaps some healing potions or balms could be purchased. I also feel exposed at the moment with such simple traveling clothes. Is armor something you would recommend?"
Nick looked to his bodyguards at the question. He subconsciously rubbed his shoulder that had been injured by the demon. There was a jagged scar from where the claws ripped into his skin and while the healing potion closed the wound it left deep scar tissue. The thought of going into the wilderness to fight monstrous insects without any armor or weapons made Nick shiver in fear. He knew he would never be on the front lines swinging a sword but his protection had become top of mind after his encounter with the demons.
"Additional supplies and personal protective gear is advisable. Knowing more about the enemies we will face allows us to purchase more effective equipment. I recommend we discuss the merits of each investment. Effective equipment that will last will not come cheap and compromises will need to be made." Larissa replied thoughtfully.
Nick nodded in agreement. He had spoken with Vander and Fredrick at length during his time in Frellon about the types of technology, magic, and equipment that could be purchased through the station. He learned a few key things.
Firstly, the technological level of the world was hard to quantify against what he knew from Earth. The class and skill system made the implementation of mass manufacturing and use of advanced machinery irrelevant in almost all cases. The common skills given to crafters had to be directly applied to the creation of products. While some assembly line style crafting was possible it was only feasible for certain types of goods and was rarely implemented. It gave Nick a few ideas he wanted to try to introduce to his new world down the road but it required significantly more coin than he had available.
Another key discovery was how frequently magic replaced most modern technology from Earth. An earth mage could dig tunnels, sewers, and any number of infrastructure projects. The alchemists and enchanters could create products to replace medicine and appliances. The lightbulb had been replaced by light runes and harnessing electricity was reserved to lightning mages.
There were some advances far beyond Earth however when it came to architecture and fortifications. Enchanters and other classes could combine their efforts to create near impregnable castles and walls. The monsters of the world made them all but necessary in some regions. While Repstrom was widely safe from monsters the kingdom has spent literal centuries making such a thing possible. The expansive nature of Proelium meant many areas were still developing the infrastructure to provide that level of safety for their citizens.
The last key thing Nick took away from his discussions with Fredrick and Vander was that industry had become almost entirely focused on arms and armor to support the near constant military action in all parts of the world. The focus did not make it cheap however. The demand far outstripped supply for quality equipment. The most effective equipment that included extensive enchantments or in some cases even inherent skills within items had starting prices in the platinum range so Nick wouldn't be buying an amulet that shielded him from attacks anytime soon.
“I’m willing to invest every coin I have to ensure our success. What do you recommend?" Nick inquired, returning his thoughts to the conversation.
The Nightfall sisters gave each other a meaningful look before Nuri began explaining their recommended strategy.
"Your protection should be the first priority. Regardless of any other casualties the company starts and ends with your survival and frankly we have both agreed our best hopes for the future are tied to your success. The infantry unit will need to be managed carefully until we can bring on additional support classes so until then a cautious approach is warranted. The drones and worker class monsters are well within their capabilities as long as the numbers are not overwhelming.”
Nick nodded along thoughtfully. He felt a little guilty that the rest of the company members' lives would be less valued but he wasn't going to complain.
Nuri continued after taking a moment to measure Nick’s reaction. “That being said, a better set of armor for your personal protection is a good start followed by a mount better capable of navigating a battlefield and protecting you directly. The mount will not come cheap but a decent set of armor for the level of threat we will face can be more affordable."
Nuri glanced at Vander with an unsaid question and he raised his arm before a new screen appeared with an interesting collection of listings.
"These are some options we have been discussing with Vander based on the current budget with an eye to upgrade in the future.”
Ironwood Brigandine
Vendor: Greenleaf Armory
Type: Light Armor
Status: For Sale
Price (Per Unit): 24 Silver
Crafted from reinforced ironwood plates stitched into a durable leather base, this armor is lightweight yet sturdy. It provides excellent protection against slashing attacks and blends well with forest environments, making it ideal for rangers and scouts.
Chainmail Shirt
Vendor: Ironclad Smithery
Type: Medium Armor
Status: For Sale
Price (Per Unit): 16 Silver
A flexible shirt made of interlinked iron rings, providing excellent protection against slashing and piercing attacks. It is light enough to allow decent mobility but may cause fatigue over long periods of use.
Reinforced Padded Gambeson
Vendor: Bastion Clothworks
Type: Light Armor
Status: For Sale
Price (Per Unit): 12 Silver
This thick quilted jacket features metal studs sewn into the fabric for added defense. It provides moderate protection against blunt force and cuts while being affordable and lightweight.
Steel-Studded Leather Armor
Vendor: Blackridge Traders
Type: Medium Armor
Status: For Sale
Price (Per Unit): 18 Silver
A combination of hardened leather reinforced with steel studs and plates. This armor offers a good balance of flexibility and protection, suitable for both melee and ranged combatants.
Nick read through each listing and could see the merit of each. He noticed all the armor listings were either listed as Light or Medium.
“Is there a reason you didn’t select any heavy armor to consider?” he asked as he looked back at Nuri.
She tapped her lips for a moment before saying, “The heavy armor would be burdensome to wear for extended periods and the cost is a consideration. The affordable options are heavy and bulky, limiting mobility. The most effective place for you to be during a conflict is on the move and out of harm’s way. If you avoid a hit you don’t have to worry about defending it.”
Nick nodded thoughtfully. He agreed with the approach. The armor would be expensive but if the protection it offered gave him additional security against attacks it would be well worth it in his opinion.
“Can’t go wrong with steel.” he said motioning toward the listing for Steel-Studded Leather Armor. He felt it would offer the best combination of maneuverability and protection.
Vander waved his hand again and the listing flickered before a new list appeared.
“These are some mounts to consider. The price will be steeper than the kroras you previously purchased but they offer some considerable benefits to avoid potential danger.”
Ironhide Charger
Vendor: Crimson Forge Stables
Type: Heavy Mount
Status: For Sale
Price (Per Unit): 52 Silver
A robust and heavily armored mount for combat scenarios. Its magically enchanted thick, plated hide provides natural protection against attacks, making it a favored choice for those expecting dangerous encounters. While not the fastest, the Ironhide Charger is a reliable and durable choice for prolonged engagements.
Dreadscale Boar
Vendor: Ironfang Breeding Company
Type: Heavy Mount
Status: For Sale
Price (Per Unit): 72 Silver
The Dreadscale Boar, once known for its ferocious and unruly nature, has been selectively bred and trained to be a more reliable mount for riders seeking a balance between battlefield versatility and personal safety. This formidable creature retains its signature thick, spiked scales, offering excellent protection against both melee attacks and projectile fire. Its powerful musculature allows it to carry a rider through rugged terrain with ease, while its newly refined temperament makes it a dependable ally in the heat of battle.
Brambleclaw Bear
Vendor: Wildheart Mounts
Type: Heavy Defensive Mount
Status: For Sale
Price (Per Unit): 75 Silver
A massive, lumbering beast with thick fur and bramble-like armor growing naturally along its back and sides, the Brambleclaw Bear offers unmatched protection in the forest. Though slower than some mounts, its sheer power and ability to clear paths through dense undergrowth make it invaluable for challenging terrain and hostile environments.
Leafscale Raptor
Vendor: Shadowvine Breeders
Type: Agile Combat Mount
Status: For Sale
Price (Per Unit): 54 Silver
A quick and intelligent creature, the Leafscale Raptor is covered in green, leaf-like scales, making it nearly invisible in dense foliage. Its sharp claws and powerful legs make it adept at both combat and traversing thick undergrowth. The raptor's loyalty and speed make it a prized companion for skirmishers and scouts.
Mossback Lizard
Vendor: Greenfang Traders
Type: Heavy Mount
Status: For Sale
Price (Per Unit): 59 Silver
A slow but incredibly durable mount, the Mossback Lizard has thick, moss-covered scales that blend into forest terrain. Its ability to climb rocky inclines and navigate muddy paths makes it ideal for dense and difficult landscapes. While not a combat-focused mount, its tough hide can protect the rider from minor threats.
Nick frowned briefly at the memory of his krora, Plum. He had only owned her for a few days but her death hit him hard. It was the first death he had witnessed in his new world and he had quickly grown attached to her. It took him a moment to re-focus on the list and consider bonding with a new mount that would help protect him from danger. He felt guilt at the idea of putting another creature in harm's way again, but knew it was a necessity. He was certain violence and bloodshed would be part of a new reality he would have to adjust to rapidly or he was sure to lose his ability to lead his company successfully.
Nick took a breath before he studied the entries for a couple of minutes trying to visualize himself on each mount. They all seemed so varied and he was frankly thrilled with the idea of riding a bear or raptor, but one of them stood out more than the rest.
“These all seem viable, but the Dreadscale Boar looks the most reliable and versatile.”
Nuri gave a knowing nod at Nick’s comment while Larissa frowned slightly.
“The Dreadscale Boar are a formidable mount and are surprisingly agile in most terrain. It would serve you well out in the field.”
Nick smiled as he looked at Vander and gave him a mental nudge to complete the purchase of his new armor and mount.
Name: Nick Solis
Age: 21
Race: Human
Class: [Merchant]
Level: 2
Currency: 0 Gold, 96 Silver, 78 Copper