Chapter 6

Not "The Tavern" but "a tavern"

I clung to Shadow’s side. She smelled nice. Alice always smelled of lilac and jasmine. Shadow's odder was more fruity. Almost like mine but with a hint of… dog. There was also a bit of spice to it. Like cranberries but slightly less acidy.

It was a good distraction from the fear and unease that was currently crushing me into the new worlds crust. The simplified version was I felt like hiding in a deep dark hole where no one can find me.

To keep anyone from seeing my distress I kept my face buried in Shadow's side. I’d lost my dignity and was left with no confidence at all. Not only was I almost kidnapped but I fell for the stupidest trick in the book.

On top of that I got spanked and not in a sexy way. My ass was dead ass sore. It felt like I’d been dragged through a mile of gravel. The parts that didn’t hurt were numb. She didn’t hold back at all.

If that wasn't bad enough I went ahead and pissed all over the floor Like a drunk vergin. It also didn’t help that I was currently wearing underwear that didn’t really belong to me.

Well it did but.... it still didn’t feel like mine. It was kind of like that time I got Alice that sexy lingerie for our anniversary, and she was like “I’m not wearing that!” and I was all like “but babe you’ll look so hot in it! Please!” and she shoved it back at me then said jokingly. “You wear it…..”

….. So I did. That was a weird night. Best not to think about that though.

In my current mental state. All I could do was cling to Shadow in hopes of not getting scooped up like a cat turd in a neglected liter box. Meanwhile there was so many eyes on me. How the hell was I supposed to know which ones were creepy aunts or uncles.

Cosplay was fun at first but now I really just wanted some jeans and a t-shirt. Some boxers would be really nice. Shadow wasn’t complaining. She was enjoying my new vulnerable state.

Why was the world so scary? I don’t wanna be here anymore. This is no longer a fun adventure. I wanna go home. I miss my PC and my gaming chair.

These drugs better wear off soon. This is such a bad trip. I don’t remember childhood being so terrifying. Maybe it’s because I’m no longer ignorant towards the dangers of the world.

Forget TEO I’ll play Minecraft instead. What if I was trapped in Minecraft? Not sure if that was worse or not. Everything being block shaped would drive me crazy. I also don't think reality would mix well. Considering how broken things were in this world, that world would be a paradox in of itself.

It’d be like going back in time and having accidental freaky unprotected hippy sex with your dead grandma, only for her to get pregnant giving birth to your dad effectively making you your dad’s dad and also your own grandfather. Time be whack yo.

It wasn’t until we entering the tavern that I finally released my grip on Shadow’s side. I wanted to get a look. The inside of the tavern was somewhat barren. Then again it was the middle of the day. Most customers probably wouldn’t show up until after the sun started setting.

There were a few old-timey ornaments hanging off the walls. A few wagon wheels some rusty swords. Picture frames of distant lands. The nicest thing — and most expensive — was probably the grandfather clock. It was also the only thing not currently covered in dust aside from the chairs and tables.

This place was called tavern. As far as names went it wasn't very creative. There wasn’t even a prefix like “The Tavern” it was just tavern. We’re not the best we’re not the worst we’re just a tavern. I kind of liked it. The name was right to the point. Tavern no bullshit.

I'm gonna open a sandwich shop one day and just call it sandwich. You come in you odder a sandwich. You get a sandwich, a drink, and a small bag of chips. Nothing more.

Simple and easy. Even a highly anxious guy like myself can order at a place like that. No follow up questions like “What kind of sides would you like?” Just “Here’s your sandwich! Cut the crust off? Are you crazy! No I will not toast it!”

Then the customer would be all like “B-but I’m allergic to white bread!” Then I’d be all like “No! Get the fuck out! I don't deal with pussies! Little bitch boy!” and then everyone would clap, because…. Because it’s my imagination and I say so!

What was I talking about? I can't remember. Oh right! The tavern! No, wait just tavern.

Luca sure knew how to pick them, but I have to say it did look cozy. What really grabbed my attention was that half of the room had been turned into a lounge.

The lounging area had a large carpet made of the black and gray hide of some mythical beast. It was so degraded I couldn't even tell what mob it had been.

Around it were a bunch of mismatching couches. It was centered around the fire place that was currently pouring heat into the room. There was even a pool table. I was more of an air hooky kind of guy but pool was cool to.

Maybe I can get Shadow and Luca to play with me. On second thought I’d probably be to short to get the angle right.

As far as customers went there were a few passed out drunks and an adventurer or two. I even spotted a few neutral players. They didn’t pay much attention to Shadow or I. each one looked somewhat depressed.

There was some blood on the melee fighters. One look at there faces told me everything. They’d seen what I saw when I shot Mantis.

This world was raw and bloody. To real for a gaming mentality. Those guys were here to drink there worries away. I would have to talk to them eventually, but for now I set my focus on finding Luca.

Looking around I spotted a familiar violet colored head. It had a curved cowlick sticking out. There was no mistaking it. That was Luca.

I’d know that cowlick anywhere. It often stuck out in a crowd. Much more in this empty place. I also recognized her night robe. It glowed ominously.

She sat at the bar with her head down. Her right hand clenched the handle of a mug straight out of the medieval age. Her head jerked itself up only to take a sloppy drink.

Then crashed back down with a heavy thud. It sounded like that hurt. She was so hammered I doubt she even felt it.

One thing was for sure. She’d feel it tomorrow. The poor girl hiccupped then let out a loud wet burp. There was an interesting de-buff just under her health bar. It looked like a bottle with an “X" on it.

That was usually reserved for when you were poisoned. I suppose alcohol was a kind of poison. My little brother just about died when he chugged a whole keg in under ten minutes.

It was back when vines were cool. I remember him telling me “I did it for the vine.” It wasn’t even funny. He got all cold and clammy then started seizing and vomiting. Poor kid had alcohol poisoning.

The de-buff wasn’t draining Luca’s health though. I wonder what level of poison that was. It had to be below one considering at level one you lost four health per second. Which was not the case here. This had to be some other version of the de-buff.

I looked to Shadow who was standing next to me. She gave me a blank stare. She knew what I wanted but it seemed like she was refusing to take the lead.

I really didn’t want to be the center of attention and just wanted her to handle the meet up. I felt the need to cling to her again but I didn't get the chance.

Her tail did a cheerful swish. She smiled putting her hands on my shoulders. I felt a chill run up my spine. I was being pointed towards Luca.

All of a sudden it was as if Luca was a mile away and the floor had sunk down. My heart started to beat faster.

Shadow decided to give me a push of encouragement. “Go get her. I know you can do it.” I stumbled forward before forming into a proper walk.

It was like a baby bird being pushed out of its nest. I’d been using Shadow as a support pillar since we left the castle. Without her I felt exposed.

What if another Mantis came along and tried to take me away. The hole was asleep and I couldn't build up any courage. My anxiety shot up and I felt like I might feint.

I hate it when this happens. Every once in a while I lose the ability to be around others. It usually happens when my self-esteem is low. The punishment I received from Shadow had only made my anxiety worse.

I was left with no conviction. The feeling of unease got worse as I realized I was surrounded by drunks. Even though no one was looking at me.

I could still feel their sharp eyes burning holes into my skin. I dreaded the thought of getting into a conversation with them.

Why was I so terrified? Pull yourself together man! I gave my face a clap and mustered all the courage I had left.

Holding my ground I managed to push forward through it all. Snowball was being crushed by my unforgiving hug. I hate going out.

I just wanted to play games and watch anime. How did I end up in such a place! I let out a whimper doing my best not to cry. My legs trembled. I don’t want to be here!

It felt like I was drifting through a dark forest full of hungry monsters. Teeth gleaming, their red eyes piercing the dark. In the distance was a campfire.

Luca was there sitting on an old log. The drunk girl acted as a guiding light in a world of all encompassing darkness. Funny considering she was a Shadowmancer.

All I had to do was get to her and I’d be safe. I nervously made my way across. It felt like a mile but it was only about fifty feet.

I reached out with a shaky hand and managed to get a hold of Luca’s glowing black robes. All of a sudden I was back in the tavern and all I wanted to do was bury myself into Luca's side.

I gave her robes a gentle tug to get her attention. The fabric felt strange. It was weightless but resilient. My voice squeaked. “Luca…. Can we leave? I don't like it here. Its scary.” The girl stirred managing to glance my way.

“Chief? Oh my goober, hey!” Clumsily she wrapped her arms around me. Her breath stunk of booze. Her words were ever so slightly slurred.

“Wow, Your even cuter in person!” It was the reaction I was expecting but this was different from Shadow’s. Shadow was gentle, Luca was anything but.

She pulled me onto her lap and just about crushed me with her death hug. So this is what it feels like to be a lemon. Snowball and I were slowly being crushed into a new kind of coffee blend.

I figured I’d let her get it out of her system, but then it started to really hurt. “Let go your hurting me.” I cried but Luca didn’t listen.

It was like she was trying to un-birth me by stuffing me into her torso. The image of somehow finding myself trapped behind her ribcage hunted me.

In a panic I did the only thing I could and bit down on her arm. “Ow!” she cried out in pain releasing me. I fell to the floor and like a nimble cat landed on my feet.

As soon as I did I scurried my way over to Shadow in a zigzag pattern, as if someone was trying to snipe me. Then hid behind my beloved cat girl companion.

My arms wrapped around her left leg. I tilted my head to the side peeking at Luca who was only just now getting herself back together.

She's a Mantis sympathizer! I let out a low growl that sounded more like a purring kitten than anything intimidating.

“That hurt chief.” She rubbed the Aku sized bite mark on her arm. I wonder if coffee addiction was transferable through bites. I didn't really break the skin but what if it was more magical in nature like a werewolf bite.

“Geez, I just wanted to show affection. What are you a cat? Do you need me to buy you a liter box?” Her eyes were accusatory.

She turned her attention to Shadow taking on a cheerful demeanor. “Shadow, I’m happy to see you to. When I got here I thought I was the only one. Would you believe I found myself under a bunch of books. That's just what I get for logging out at the library last night.” She was a very cheerful drunk. I preferred the stoic kind.

You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

Shadow gave me a head pat to calm me down. I hadn't realized how much force I was using on her leg. So I softened my hug and took a step to the side revealing myself to Luca.

She made a strange sound that made me want to run away. It was something between a squealing seal and a shrieking banshee.

The only other time I’d ever heard that sound was back when I bought my niece a kitten. Poor little guy died of dehydration a week later. She forgot she stuffed him in a suitcase. He was in there for three days!

In a self induced panic I yelled out “I don't wanna die of dehydration!” Both Shadow and Luca looked at me like I was crazy. “I ain't crazy! Your the crazy ones!”

They shared a look before Shadow finally decided to take over the meet up. “It’s alright master. Don’t start crying now. There’s no Mantis here." Shadow’s hand caressed my head. She’d done it so many times today. I was afraid a bold spot was beginning to form.

Luca went back to being a creep. “Come on chief. Come here. I have all kinds of candy in my inventory.” She opened her arms like she was going to give someone a hug, but her fingers were moving in a very creepy way. Even her cowlick was waving at me. Her face twisted into a mischievous grin.

I wasn’t falling for that again. Something told me Shadow had Spilled the beans on what happened with Mantis. I shook my head causing my hair to whip around like a horse tail swatting flys.

I then proceeded to bury my face into Shadows hip like an ostrich rotating its eggs. My arms wrapped around her left leg once more like, like…. I don’t know a snake strangling and old lady?

“Oh, come on chief. I’ll be gentle this time. I swear.” The mage giggled like a villain from a bad movie. I didn’t like it at all. I could run but then I’d be alone. I don’t wanna be alone.

goosebumps ran up and down my spine. That smile was not one of good intentions. It was the kind of smile you’d see on a prankster. More like a demon.

I tried to focus on something else and looked up at Shadow for help. My eyes pleading for some form of asylum. However, Shadow had already moved on to more important matters.

She was eyeing Luca's drink with disappointment in her eyes. Even her ears were being judgmental with there accusing slope. When the hell did I learn to read the emotions of cat ears? Maybe Luca was right and I was becoming a cat.

“Luca aren’t you like fifteen in the old world?” Thank God Shadow changed the subject. Luca looked like she was about to pounce on me.

The mage's face soured. It fell right on annoyed. In the most bratty teenager way possible, she rolled her eyes. Somehow the action resonated with me awakening a thread of anger within the hole.

At that moment I really wanted to punch her. There was something about eye rolls that really ticked me off. It gave off the feeling of “I know so much more than you do." Remembering she was just a teen, I refrained from doing anything I might regret.

At least Shadow was finally being someone else’s mom for a change. Now she was gonna get it. The mage picked up her mug and chugged the whole thing as if to show dominance. Oooo, she shouldn’t have done that. Wish I had some popcorn. This was about to get goooooood.

I looked to Shadow to gage her reaction. Her face expression didn’t change. She wasn’t moved at all. I wonder if this is what it’s like dealing with teenagers. What a nightmare.

“I might have been fifteen in the old world but in the new world I’m a fully grown woman. Also the drinking age is fourteen here so I’m perfectly in my legal rights.” She spoke so proudly.

Was this the birth of a new strong and independent woman. One that could fight in cage matches and pick up any skill at master level. Probably not.

This felt more like a teenager finding freedom after years of strict rules. Then having it all immediately go to their head. She wasn’t just drunk on alcohol, she was drunk on freedom.

Shadow snorted. “Okay you have a point. Your body is definitely grown up enough to drink alcohol but as a fellow adult I advise you to take it easy. Get to drunk and you might end up passing out and get carried off by some stranger.”

She ruffled my hair again. “Master was already almost kidnapped and she wasn’t even drunk. The new world is pretty dangerous if you're not careful.” Luca looked a bit dejected as she eyed her mug. It seemed like the message was clear.

I felt my cheeks burn. Why did she have to bring that up. My bottom was still hurting. It was kind of itchy to. I hope it’s not infected. I was afraid to look. Theres no doctors in Entropy!

Did she really have to use me like an example. I had half a mind to bite her. Let’s see how she likes being addicted to coffee.

I was about to taste cat girl flesh when I realized it would only get me into more trouble. I needed to be more productive so instead, I decided to voice the injustice.

“That’s not fair! How come when it comes to the actual child you treat her like an adult but not me!” I crossed my arms at the unfair double standard.

Shadow glanced at me. A smile blooming on her face. She found me amusing. I wanted to be taken seriously not be seen as a yapping puppy.

“Well sweetie. In your case you need to be raised again but this time the right way. And for Luca, this is an opportunity for her to learn the ins and outs of being a responsible adult. Don’t you think she might benefit from learning what being an adult is all about? When this is over she'll be able to go back to her young self again. With a new perspective on life to boot.” While she spoke she continued to caress my head. By this point I felt less like a child and more like a stress ball.

No, no, go ahead. Fondle me all you want it’s not like I have feelings or anything. Take your stress out on poor little Aku. That's why I spent so long grinding levels. Just so you'd have something resilient to play with…. That came out wrong……

Hang on a sec! Had I heard her right? She was going to “raise me right” What the fuck did that mean? I really hope she hadn’t lost her mind. It almost sounded like she was trying to fill the hole left from her kids with me and Luca. I really hope she was joking.

Something was off about her. Its like she cant stop being a mom. Should I snap at her? No, she’ll just ignore me. I seem to restrain myself a lot.

By this point there was so much anger begging me to fight back but my mature adult half just wanted to brush it off and keep moving. That was probably why the hole got so big in the first place. At least my anxiety was becoming dormant again.

What were my options then? I could just say my peace and walk the hell out of here but that felt harsh. I’d also be alone. I needed people to cling to otherwise my anxiety might just leave me paralyzed on the street somewhere.

I might be a little more confident now but it wont last forever. Besides I couldn’t abandon Shadow just because she was a crazy cat lady. Not here but once we’re alone I’ll see what’s up with her.

The cat girls jab got a laugh out of Luca, but I didn't find it all that funny. To me it sounded like she might be hurting.

“That’s an interesting situation you got yourself in chief. Anyway, let’s eat, this place is kind of a hole in the wall but the food here is pretty good.” Luca patted the seat next to her.

Shadow took it. There was an empty seat next to Shadow but I didn’t want to sit there. She’d freaked me out enough today. I needed space. So I made my way to the other seat next to Luca and sat down.

To my right was a passed out man and to my left was Luca. My action hadn’t gone unnoticed. Shadow’s smile had faded. I tried to ignore her.

The drunk guy next to me murmured “Dam Sheila… fuck my brother… I’ll kill em both…” I gave the drunk man next to me a pat on the back. “It’s alright buddy we’ve all been there.” Shadow and Luca gave me a strange look. I ignored it.

They didn't need to know my past. One of my ex-girlfriends. Well she wasn’t actually my girl friend. She was the neighborhood whore.

I thought I was in love until I found out she had sex with my brother. When I went to confront him he told me she’d been fucking everyone on the block.

I felt stupid for thinking I had something special with her. I had even gotten her a ring. Nothing fancy just one of those shitty plastic rings you get from a vending machine.

Turns out it wasn’t true love it was just really good sex. Like really, really good sex. The type of sex learned through trial and error. That bitch took my virginity.

She also popped my cherry but I don't like to talk about that. Her name was Mrs. Robertson. Mr. Roberson was in jail for selling knock off NFL merch. She was the only pedo I didn’t mind.

The bar tender came up to us as he wiped the counter. ”Can I help you lady Aku, lady Shadow?” This was my chance for some booze. I just needed to charm the guy.

“Hello sir. Can I get a mug of beer? Whatever you have on tap is fine.” I reached into my inventory and pulled out Snowball. Then sat the fluffy plushy down on the table. “It’s for my friend Snowball. She loves to drink beer.” The man looked amused.

“Does she now?” he asked with a chuckled.

Shadow chimed in. “Actually, Snowball quit drinking about an hour ago. She’ll actually like a glass of apple juice. Isn’t that right Lil Aku.” Shadow’s voice was as sweet as honey. It held a tiny bit of venom in it.

System note: HaHa

I tried to ignore the systems spying. It was similar to the pentagon watching me jerk off. Only difference was my FBI agent actually texted me from time to time.

Oh, she thought she could out role play me. Well I'd just have to out role play her. Raise me right, fuck that shit!

I felt uneasy but managed to speak my protest. With a shake of my head I said “No, actually the beer is for Mr. Ghost!” reaching into my inventory I pulled out the wraith plushy and planted it next to Snowball.

Shadow wasn’t expecting that. It felt like the world stopped. Everything was silent. Luca and the bartender looked nervous. They had a right to be. After all they were in the middle of a kaiju battle.

Shadow didn’t bat an eye and jumped on my role play. “Mr. Ghost quit to. Him and Snowball promised to quit together. Actually Mr. Ghost would like a cheese burger.” Her face was so smug.

She must of thought of herself as some grate mother. With the way I've been acting lately she seemed to start treating me more like a kid.

The question now was what should I do? Should I reach into my inventory and pull out another plushy, Chompy perhaps?

Chompy is a cute little green dinosaur. In-game it was called a gale-Rex. It looked like a T-Rex but with wind affinity. There popular among tamers because of how early access they are.

There pretty good for hunting. You can also ride them. Thanks to there wind affinity there faster than a normal horse and can triple jump.

I was going about this the wrong way. What would be the mature thing to do here? As ruler of this land I could ask for whatever I wanted but I didn’t want to hold that power over everyone.

Not Mantis, not Luca, not the bar tender, and definitely not Shadow. Instead of letting my body cry and scream I forced myself to focus.

Booze was nice and I could really use it. Especially since my anxiety was so high lately. It would loosen me up and help with all the stress I’m currently coping with.

Then again, getting drunk wasn’t gonna magically solve my problems. It won’t get everyone home. Right now I needed my brain cells for other things.

No mater how stressed it makes me I have to find a way home. I can get a celebratory drink when I see my wife again. Maybe even a fluff or two. Booze wasn’t going anywhere. It would be waiting for me in the fridge like it always did.

Taking a breath I implemented my last resort. I usually didn’t do this in public because it made me look like a jackass.

I only needed a second or two. Just enough time to shove my emotions down into the hole. Meditation wasn’t my thing but it was incredibly useful.

I didn’t take a stance or anything I just forced everything to stop. Then flushed it all down the toilet. I managed to zero out my emotions.

All the stress and anxiety was pushed into the hole for later use. With my priorities in order confidence began to radiate out of me.

I needed to somehow assert dominance in a way that wouldn't hurt Shadow. Something that would make me look like the grown adult I was.

Not the power move Luca did but a power move that would shut everyone up without hurting anyone’s feelings. Something only a true alpha could do.

Booze was off the menu but I wasn't gonna let her control every aspect of my life. Now then, let’s start by shaking off Shadows hold over the situation. Then I’ll take control from there.

I pretended to be someone else. It was time I brought out my good friend Robert. Robert was grate for meeting with my boss. I didn’t need to go full Robert. I just needed a taste of Robert.

With full confidence, I let out a laugh. “Actually that was a joke. As much as I’d love a drink I’m currently working. How about you get me a mushroom and Swiss burger. Also to drink I’d like some sweet tea, and for the appetizer how about a plate of Cajun Fries.” It was the most confident thing I’d said all day.

I felt powerful. Not the kind of power I felt from firing manabolt, but the kind of power one felt when they were in control. The kind of power that could convince others to join a cause.

It was the power of reason and leadership. True power in all its shining glory. You could cut throats all you wanted but that would never get you any respect. You’d just end up pushing people away.

Everyone would become your enemy. All alone with no one to trust or rely on. I didn't want that, I wanted to bring everyone together. I wanted to uplift those around me, not oppress them into following my will.

Shadow didn't say a word. The bartender called the order out to the back.

I looked to Shadow and Luca. “Order whatever you want, it’s on me.” Shadow was taken aback. She hadn’t expected me to shrug her off.

Luca just slowly sipped on a new mug of beer like nothing happened. Though I could clearly see the hints of a smile on the corners of her face.

I felt my confidence start to give way to my anxiety and the young Aku’s personality took over once again. I quickly hugged my plushies for comfort.

Speaking up left me with a bit more dignity and that felt nice. The only down side was the amount of social energy it took from me. I needed to recharge soon.

Talking to others usually drained my energy reserves. That was why I spent most of my time at home. I had a desk job so I didn’t even need to leave the house. With everything that happened today I was ready for a long nap.

“Master, your finally acting like an adult. I’m so proud of you. Honestly, I was starting to get worried. I thought you might have—” Shadow stopped talking the moment she noticed what I was doing.

I was petting Snowball like it was a real cat and making cooing sounds like I was talking to a baby. I looked to her and asked sweetly. “What was that Shadow? Did you say something? Sorry, I wasn’t listening.”

She shook her head. “Nothing master.”

Luca let out a chuckle.

We got to talking about what we needed. Since Shadow was responsible and reliable she was put in charge of gathering supplies for our trip to pearlescent.

As for Luca, she had always been good at speaking with people and gathering information. In the old world her dream was to be a detective.

She loved reading mystery novels and watching old detective shows. Like Fargo, the killing, Luther, or the adventures of Sherlock homes.

Her job was to talk to the other players and find out what was going on in this world. I was told to gear up. Luca said since she was the better mage I needed to take a different role.

Shadow’s job in the party was to go invisible, and attack from behind. Her knifes were good but they couldn’t do much damage unless they hit a vital spot. That meant someone needed to get the enemies attention.

In order to make our team work we needed a tank or some kind of close range fighter. Except, I could no longer wear heavy armor.

Tanks tended to get the attention of monsters and take hits. There job was to be a human shield. That was a problem for me since my HP was so low. I couldn’t afford to take a single hit. Much less tank a boss.

That made Shadow jump into protective mode and start refusing to let me anywhere near the action. She wanted me to play archer or gunner.

I pointed out that, that would be a stupid idea considering we still didn't have anyone to shield us from the mobs. With no front line both Luca and I were sitting ducks.

She then suggested I become an assassin along with her. That way I could just hide and be safe. That still put Luca in danger and besides I didn’t wanna hide.

I used to be an over powered berserker. One of the top twenty players in the US server. The only thing I wanted was to finally blow off steam by hitting things.

so she offered to become the tank and let me back her up as a Spearman. Spearman was an advanced class that required you to level up dualist.

I had the class and had almost maxed it out. The only issue was Shadow’s health was only slightly higher than my current health.

Her vitality stat didn’t have all that much invested into it. With my vitality ring it would only go up a tiny bit. She didn’t even have the body mass to wear armor. At best she’d be stuck with a chest plate and that wasn’t nearly enough protection.

I wasn’t useless. I could do things. All I needed was a new fighting style. I had strong magic and could swing a short sword so I decided on going as a mix between a mage, duelist, and monk.

Mages used magic to attack. Duelist used fancy weapon based attacks. Monks could fire off abilities crazy fast with low cost and low cool down time.

The monk class was made for PVP with its fast acting abilities and fast recovery time. The only downside was it’s lack of power.

For gear you could use gloves or gauntlets. Gathering the equipment I needed would be easy but I wanted a custom sword. Something made for my size.

Once we finished our talk the sun had started to go down. The tavern was beginning to fill with new faces. Luca was wasted so Shadow ended up having to carry the drunken girl.

Though, the cat girl did make a few remarks about leaving her there for the perverts to find. Luca cried and even apologized for being a burden.

Words like “Please don’t abandon me.” And “I’ll be good.” Spilled shamelessly from her mouth. Shadow was very understanding and made Luca feel better by stroking her head. In the end our mage really was just a kid. Shadow was very mature about it. Forgiving Luca and comforting her.

I followed a few feet behind the cat girl watching her tail swish back and forth. I thought about grabbing it now that her hands were full but I needed permission for something and pissing her off wouldn’t get it.

As we walked my eyes drifted to the stores. I couldn't keep them all safe by myself. Sooner or later there will be crime. This city needed work.

The whole country did. I needed a police force. Hmm… A military force would be good to. Some guards for the castle and borders wouldn't hurt.

There’s so much to do. I need to get a head start. With my tasks set before me my fears fell away giving me a clear path to follow.

Like an empty spinning bottle, my attention fell on Shadow. “You guys head home, I need to talk to a blacksmith.”

Shadow didn’t like that idea. “No, your not running off on your own. Do you want to get kidnapped, again.” She looked like she was gonna drop Luca to get at me.

Did she really think I’d just run off? “It’ll be okay. I can handle myself.” Probably.

She didn’t like that answer. “We’re going home! Now!” Grate, she was in mom mode again. Having her tag along wasn’t really an option. I didn’t want to make her carry Luca all the way to the blacksmiths shop and back to the castle.

Besides, Luca desperately needed to go to bed. That idiot. How the hell does one go on about being all grown up then immediately proceed to get so hammered they can’t even walk themselves home!

Not just that but then they expect their fake mom to carry them! Teens are the absolute worst! And then they go on to blame all there problems on there parents! Like its their parents fault they wont get off the Xbox and find a job!

By this point I was seething with rage. Hmmm… where was all this anger coming from? Right, Alice’s little brother Mickey. Back to my point, It’s kind of expected for teens to fight with there parents and then expect their parents to bail them out like they hadn’t just done something incredibly hurtful to them.

Shadow waved her hand at me like she was trying to get my attention. “You still there master? You zoned out for a whole minute.” She looked tired.

I should hurry this up. “I’ll be okay. If anything goes wrong I’ll tell you. That’s what the party chat is for. Besides, you’ll always know where I am. Thanks to the guild tab and party tab. Its like I have a tracking device embedded in my butt or something.”

She stared at me as if waiting for me to break. I held on as best as I could. It was like having a staring contest with an angry goat. I was afraid it might head butt me at any moment. I even held my arm up to defend myself.

She responded with "I'm not gonna hit you."

I retorted with "Just a precaution" The silence continued.

A brief second later she let out a breath. “Alright fine, but the moment something happens you’d better call for me. Also what’s gotten into you? Before you were all shy and cute. Now your all motivated and reasonable. You’re like a different person.” Was she saying it was a bad thing? I wasn’t sure.

“That’s because I didn’t know where I was going but now I have a goal. Anyway, I promise To let you know if something goes wrong. I might need to cling to you in the future but for tonight I’m myself.”

I made my way in the opposite direction from the castle. Shadow kept walking. I wasn’t sure if she got the message but she seemed to accept it for what it was.

As for what it was even I wasn’t sure. I just felt like I needed to do something constructive and on my own. I was stuck in this body and in this new fantastical world. I couldn’t change any of that so it was time to adapt.

I thought to those times my dad would yell at me about the decisions I’ve made. I realized a long time ago. He wasn’t trying to bust my balls or hurt me.

He only pointed out my mistakes and made rules, because he was worried about me. If he hadn't loved me at all. Then he wouldn't have cared about anything I did.

I came to that conclusion way to late. He was dead before I could ever tell him just how much it meant to me. I never even got to say I was sorry. Mom can go fuck herself.

Before I went any further I looked back and called out to Shadow. “Shadow!” She turned back to me. “Thank you for worrying about me. It’s kind of nice knowing your always looking out for me.” Somehow she made me feel happy.

“You better be home in thirty minutes. If your late I’ll hunt you down and drag you back. I am not joking young lady! Thirty minutes!” She turned back in the direction of the castle and kept walking.

Geez. She couldn’t have just said “Your welcome.” Why did she have to make me feel so uneasy. My good mood was gone. Screw it she really does hate me.

Whatever, happiness was never meant to last. Its like water it comes and goes. It’s a nice thing to have but it’s stupid to rely on. Because the moment its gone your left flopping on the dry floor like a dying fish.

You just have to Learn to breathe air. Grow a leg or two. Possibly a dick in case you get bored.