Auster Empire Gilt Services Division
Form 793
Affidavit of Intent to Preserve
Facility: Dungeon Inspection Center
I, Arin Wicket, do hereby swear and affirm that I will do everything within my power to preserve and protect the integrity and value of all proprietary interests of the Auster Empire pertaining to the contents and/or residents of current and future dungeons.
Signed: Arin Wicket
Witnessed By: Cardinal Dondetto of Notus
Form 740
Affidavit of Liability
Facility: Dungeon Inspection Center
I, Arin Wicket, forfeit all right to bring a suit against the Auster Empire for any reason in the [Dungeon] site. This agreement releases the Auster Empire from all liability relating to injuries and financial responsibilities for injuries that may occur on the [Dungeon] site.
Signed: Arin Wicket
Witnessed By: Cardinal Dondetto of Notus
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Inside the cathedral, the air was abuzz with hushed whispers, with vaulted ceilings reaching towards the heavens and stained glass windows casting colorful patterns of light across the polished stone floor. Rows of intricately carved pews lined either side of the central aisle, each one packed with members of the congregation.
“Arin Wicket.” The Cardinal spoke. “Do you hereby swear by the Empire and the Gods to perform your duties, to the best of your ability?” His voice echoed off the tall stone walls, stern eyes staring down over his crooked nose. I looked up behind him at the large embroidered tapestry dangling over the pulpit, it's vibrant threads awash with depictions of the Emperor and his ride to power.
Closing my eyes and letting out a long breath, I steel my nerves remembering the words I rehearsed over and over. “I swear by the Empire and the Gods, to uphold the laws and regulations set forth by the Auster Empire, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens within the dungeons under my inspection. To treat all inhabitants of the empire with respect and fairness, regardless of race, creed, or affiliation.”
I paused and took a another breath. “I swear to report any signs of corruption within the dungeons, promptly and without bias, to uphold the integrity of the Gilt Services Division, to carry out my duties with unwavering diligence and dedication, understanding the gravity of my role in maintaining order and stability within the realm. So help me Gods, as I embark on this solemn duty to serve and protect.”
Father Dondetto looked down at me with a prideful tear in his eye.
“By the power vested in me, by the Empire and Gods, I declare you an official Inspector of the Empire” He held out his hand, presenting a small silver pin. a long downwards pointing Chevron was surrounded on either side by a pair of engraved wings, spread wide as if outstretched in flight. And embossed in the center, a golden 4-pointed star.
The symbol of the Imperial Inspectors.
“Thank you Father. I accept this badge with honor.” I leaned close and he carefully attached the pin to the collar of my shirt.
I turned to look at my classmates standing in a neat line next to him, each standing with their heads held high and chests puffed out. Even on this momentous occasion, it was clear many of them held back tears.
Each of us will be assigned to different areas of the Empire. This would most likely be our last day together. Now, as we stood on the cusp of our individual assignments, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness at the thought of parting ways.
But there was no time for sentimentality. We were Inspectors of the Auster Empire, entrusted with a sacred duty.
With determination, I turned back to Father Dondetto.
"Inspector Wicket," the Father began again. "Your assignment is the South Dungeon Inspection Center. There, you will take the position of Junior Inspector, and be given charge of your first dungeon.”
"Remember," He continued. "You carry the honor and integrity of the Auster Empire with you, wherever you go. Do not falter in your duties, and may the Gods guide your path."
I nodded, and made my way over to stand next to my classmates, no. My fellow Inspectors. I took my place beside them, looking out across the crowded church as Father Dondetto led us all in prayer.
The ceremony ended rather swiftly after that, and before I could react, I found myself pulled along by the crowd out from the church, to the courtyard outside. Cheers of celebration and congratulations were abound as the crowd flowed through the winding streets, eventually finding ourselves at the doors of the local tavern, “The Gantry Dragon”.
Pushing my way inside, the warm flow of lantern light and the scent of sweet ale washed over me. The atmosphere within was lively, my ears filling with the clinking of glasses and the laughter of friends.
"Arin, over here!" called out one of my classmates, waving me over to a crowded table, a broad grin stretching over their face.
I swam my way through the crowd, exchanging nods and smiles with familiar faces along the way, until I finally reached the table where they were seated, seeing the smiling face of Chelsy smiling back at me, mug in hand.
"Congratulations, Arin," she said, clapping me on the back as I took a seat among them. "You did us proud up there."
"Thanks." I replied.
“So, you got assigned to the South Center, huh? hope you’re fine with bugs!”
“Bugs?” I gave her a confused look. “What do you mean bugs?”
“Oh come on! Large forested areas, tons of ponds, swamps absolutely everywhere? That’s a recipe for insect type dungeons.” She chided.
I thought for a moment. “Well, you got assigned to the North Center, it’s all desert! I bet the dungeons there feel like ovens.”
She just shrugged. “Nah, most dungeons up there are strong enough to have their own insulating fields, it’s the weaker ones that’ll cook you.”
She sipped on her drink. “Though that does mean I’ll be in charge of inspecting some untamed ones.” She mused, setting her drink back down. “But that’s enough work talk. We’ve got one last night to live it up a little! So, what’ll it be?”
“Fine, fine, I’ll take an ale.”
As the night went on, the atmosphere inside the tavern grew warmer and livelier, echoing with the sounds of laughter as more graduates found their way to the impromptu party. The wooden beams overhead creaked slightly under the weight of hanging lanterns, casting a soft, flickering light that danced across the room.
“Next question,” I shouted over the rowdy sea of voices, holding one of my study cards in front of me. “What does ‘Rule 41, Subsection A’ pertain to?”
James raised his hand first. “It lists common failure points to watch for on guardrails!”
“Correct!” I pointed to him as the other inspectors let out a low groan, before each taking a drink.
“Final one,” I announced. “This should be an easy one. Rule 1, Section 1, Part A.”
Chelsy practically jumped out of her seat raising her hand, her voice slurred in a half-drunken stupor. . “Each Ischpector is responsible for the c-condisson of all dungeons in their care!”
Laughter broke out across the table before everyone took yet another drink.
"That's right!" I exclaimed, grinning. "Looks like we've got ourselves a champion! Here’s to Chelsy!” I announced triumphantly, raising my glass high.
The crowd around me erupted in cheers, many raising their glasses to mind in celebration.
The party continued for only a short while afterwards, members slowly trickling out and bidding their farewells Eventually I elected to join them, making my way through the dissipating crowd of revelers. The sounds of laughter and music gradually fading into the background, my body longing for nothing but the warmth of my own bed.
With each step, the dull ache in my head seemed to intensify, the lamplight above me becoming a swirling mess, but I reached for the Inn’s staircase and steadied myself against the wooden banister, slowly trudging my way upstairs.
When I reached the top of the stairs, I stumbled disgracefully down the narrow hallway and unceremoniously threw my bedroom door open.
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With a sigh of relief, I collapsed onto the bed, falling asleep almost as soon as my head hit the pillows, my dreams filled with excited visions of the days to come.
I awoke the next day with a pounding headache and a mouth as dry as parchment.
Gods, why have you forsaken me so?
Groaning, I slowly sat up in bed, blinking against the blinding sunlight streaming through the window. With a sigh, I swung my legs over the edge of the bed and forced myself to stand, wincing as the room spun dizzily around me.
I stumbled over to the basin that sat in the corner, splashing the cold water on my face in an attempt to clear my foggy mind. I winced as the icy water jolted me awake, but it did little to relieve the ache in my head.
With yet another resigned sigh, I dressed myself in my new Inspector's uniform, the fabric feeling heavy and uncomfortable against my skin. I ran a hand through my disheveled hair, trying in vain to tame the unruly tangles, before finally steeling myself to face the day ahead.
I made my way downstairs to the tavern’s common room and ordered a strong cup of tea and a hearty breakfast to settle my queasy stomach. As I sat in one of the small booths, a small steaming cup was placed in front of me, soon followed by a plate filled to the brim with eggs, bacon, and potato hash.
Taking a sip from my tea and poking at my meal, I couldn't shake the feeling of dread that gnawed at my insides.
“Ma’am,” I looked up at the tavern’s matron. “What time of day is it?”
The homely woman stepped over to the window and tilted her head to get a good look at the skies above. “Wel,l I’d say it’s a bit past noon.”
I froze, every ounce of tiredness vanishing as a chill crawled up my spine. “Past noon? you’re sure?”.
“Sure as sugar.” She said matter of factly, punctuating the statement with her hands on her hips.
“Shit- shit! I’m gonna miss my wagon!”
I jumped to my feet, my meal entirely forgotten as I rushed through the doors.. As I stepped out into the street, the matron popped her head through the window and tossed my suitcase to me which I caught clumsily before sprinting away.. The streets were bustling with people as I made my way through, dodging carts and crowds alike. I was supposed to meet them in front of the church right at noon, and if I don't get there now, I'll-
Rounding the corner, I could see the church off at the end of the road, watching in despair as the wagon I was supposed to board already began pulling away. Its occupants cast odd glances in my direction as I ran up in desparation,breathless and disheveled.
“Wait!” I called out, waving my arms wildly. “Wait!”
But it was too late. There was nothing I could do as I watched helplessly as the wagon vanished behind a corner, leaving me stranded in the dusty street. Weary and crestfallen, I trudged into the church and collapsed into a pew.
“I can’t believe it.” I said out loud, pinpricks of tears stinging the corners of my eyes. “I’m late to my first day.”
Suddenly I heard a deep throaty chuckle behind me. “There’s one every year, son.”
I turned in my seat to face a large, brawny man with a thick beard standing in the entryway of the church. He was dressed in well polished leather armor, with a longsword at his hip and a sling on his belt. On his armor, emblazoned into his leather chest plate, he bore a golden cross, the mark of a Guardsman.
But what I noticed most, as he stepped closer, were his eyes. His iris’s were a vibrant gold, which glistened under the sunlight.
Immediately, I shot up from my seat and threw my arm up in a salute. “Guardsman Sir! I-I’m Junior Inspector Wicket.”
The man chuckled again, raising his hands. “At ease, I’m not here to chastise you.” He stroked his beard calmly. “I like to wait around before heading out, just in case one of you gets left behind.”
He looked me up and down and pointed at my suitcase. “That’s all yer taking? It’s a three day ride to the southern Inspection Center y’know.”
“Well I uhm…” I scratched my head, searching for an answer. “...I prefer to travel light, Sir.”
The man laughed again, but this time it didn’t feel so lighthearted. “I’ve heard that one before, Wicket.” He thought for a moment, before sticking out his hand. Tentatively, I reached out to grab it, and in an instant he pulls me out of the pew and to my feet. “Call me Kerich, lad. We’ll pick you up a good rucksack before we head out.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well, how else do you expect to make it to Sirocco in time? You’re coming with me.” he declared, punctuated with a hearty thumb pointed at himself.
With that, the man turned about in place and strode straight out of the church, barely giving me any time to catch up.
As I stepped back out into the street, I could hear him continue to speak as he walked. “So, what made you want to be an inspector, Wicket? It can’t be anything like fame or fortune, or else you’d be a Guardsman like me.”
I hurried to keep up with him, doing my best to supress how winded I felt. “Well… early on, I thought I wanted to be a cartographer Sir Kerich, but after I learned how much time I’d be spending on boats, I decided against it.”
Kerich let out a hearty laugh as we rounded a corner. "A cartographer, eh? Well, it seems like the Gods had other plans for you, leading you to the dungeons instead of the seas."
“That, and I get nasty seasick.” I shyly admitted, earning yet another chuckle from the guard.
We walked along in silence for a while, rounding corners almost randomly as Kerich saw fit. Before long though, we finally came to a stop in front of a large, unassuming wooden building.
“Here we are,” he began, proudly putting his hands on his hips. ”We can get ya’ geared up now.” Kerich pushed open the door, and a wave of warmth washed over us as we stepped inside.
The interior was filled with rows upon rows of all kinds of stuff, from armor stands and survival gear, to fancy suits and dresses. “Welcome to Brimstone Outfitters,” He said with a grin, swinging his arms wide as if presenting the entire room to me. “This is one of my favorite places to stop on my way through town.”
I followed him through the aisles of equipment as he pulled item after item off the shelves and shoved them unceremoniously in my hands, such as a large leather rucksack, a bedroll, canteen, a small lantern, and all manner of other knick-knacks.
"Trust me, you'll need these," Kerich said as he put a small firestarter on the pile. "The dungeons can be unforgiving, especially at night."
I gave a small wordless nod in reply, feeling my arms start to buckle from the sheer weight of it all.
Once we had gathered what he considered to be all the necessary gear, Kerich led me to the counter, handing the shopkeeper a small sack of coins as I put the loose items into my luggage or rucksack. As we stepped back out into the bustling street, I felt a renewed sense of readiness for the journey ahead, even if my tired limbs disagreed.
Thank you, Sir Kerich," I said gratefully. "I don't know what I would've done without your help."
Kerich waved away my thanks with a dismissive gesture. "No need for thanks, Wicket. Just doing my duty.” he replied, a smooth humbleness soaked into his words. Together we continued along the road beyond the walls and out of the town.
The sun hung high in the sky as we walked, casting a warm golden light over the landscape. The aspen trees surrounding the path shook gently in the breeze, their leaves shimmering like coins in the sunlight. Kerich walked beside me with a steady pace, his boots crunching softly on the gravel road. The further along we went away from Notus, the familiar sights and sounds of civilization gradually faded away, replaced by the peaceful serenity of the countryside.
“So, what can I expect in Sirrocco?” I asked, breaking the comfortable silence that had settled between us.
Kerich glanced at me, a wry smile playing at the corners of his lips. “Well, for starters, you can expect plenty of surprises. The South Center oversees a wide range of dungeons, from dense forests to sprawling marshlands. You'll encounter all manner of creatures and challenges in your inspections, that's for certain."
He paused, his expression growing more serious. “Though, the dungeons aren’t really the most dangerous part, these days. It’s the Outlaws.”
“Outlaws- I’d heard of them in training. Nasty criminals that pillage the dungeons recklessly without licenses from the Empire, right?”
Kerich nodded solemnly. “They’re most often driven by simple greed, or some childish sense of carefree adventure, but some of the more ambitious types might even try to seize the power of the dungeons for themselves.”
I scrunched up my nose in anger. “The dungeons are dangerous enough without them roaming around.”
“Exactly. And imagine what’d happen if an Outlaw who’d already plundered one dungeon decided that wasn’t enough! Why, some poor sod I knew that was assigned to a raid was unlucky enough to run across one like that.”
He chuckled nervously. “They sent the man home in an urn.”
My stomach churned at the thought of such a grim fate. "That's terrible…" I muttered, feeling a shiver run down my spine. "So, what can we do to stop these Outlaws?”
“ ‘We’ do nothing. It’s my job to take care of them. As a Guardsman, I’m licensed to enter dungeons in pursuit of Outlaws and bring them back to the surface, dead or alive. If you, or any of you inspectors in fact, are unlucky enough to run into one of them, you call us.”
We continued on our journey in silence, the weight of Kerich's words hanging heavy in the air. My eyes darted around nervously, my hands feeling clammy at the mere thought.
As the day wore on, the landscape gradually transformed from the sparse Aspen forest surrounding Notus to open countryside, with rolling hills and meadows stretching out as far as the eye could see. The air was sweet with the scent of wildflowers and the distant chirping of birds.
Eventually, the sun began its descent towards the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape. We arrived at a small clearing nestled between a few of the now-sparse trees within the meadow, where we made camp for the night. Kerich set up a simple fire, the crackling flames casting a warm glow over our makeshift campsite. We laid out our bedrolls under the canopy of trees, and I sat down next to the fire, simply watching Kerich as he finished setting up his side of the camp.
My gaze couldn't help but focus on his eyes once again. Even under the dim light of the fire, his iris’s shone brightly in the night, the golden glow feeling almost ethereal, in a way. I bit my tounge hesitantly as he sat, the cold wind giving me an involuntary shiver, before finally deciding to ask..
“Sir… you’ve completed a dungeon, haven’t you?”
The man looked up from the fire, the flames dancing and reflecting off his gold speckled eyes..
“So you noticed, huh?” His posture straightened. “Yeah, I conquered one. Why do you ask, you’re not getting any bright ideas about claiming one yourself, are you?”
I shrank from his gaze. “N-No Sir, I just… happened to notice your eyes. I-I’d read about what happens when someone completes a dungeon and claims a Token before.”
“Well, I didn’t claim a Token myself. That should be obvious, seeing as I’m sitting here with you. What you see here?” He pointed at his eyes. “This can happen from just participating in a raid.”
“What do you mean?”
“Fighting monsters can leave one… corrupted by them. If you’ve made your way to the end of a dungeon, then you’ve probably fought damn near dozens. At the end of it, you’ve gotta be cleansed by a priest.”
He thought for a moment, looking me over. “What would you say is the purest thing there is?”
“Water?”
“Even more pure than that.”
I shook my head, I couldn’t think of an answer.
He reached into his pocket and fished out a gold coin, tossing it into the air theatrically before catching and presenting it to me.
“Gold. The priest offers up gold to the gods, they pull all that corruption out from you, and it’s replaced with the purity of gold itself.”
He turned the coin around in his hands a few times, before clicking his tongue in annoyance and tucking it away. “Where it shows up depends on how tainted you were when you got cleansed.”
I looked him over for a moment before a thought occurred. “Wait, what happens if you don’t get cleansed?”
He shifted around uncomfortably. “That’s a topic that’s… up for debate. Some say that corruption eats through your mind and drives you mad. Others, though, say that it’ll slowly turn you into the very monsters you fight.”
He leans back and shrugs. “I say, better safe than sorry.”
I nod in understanding. No reason not to agree with that sentiment, after all.
Before long the fire began to die down, and the two of us decided it was a good time to get some rest. As I laid my head on my rucksack, staring up at the vast sea of brilliant stars in the night sky, my mind once more filled itself with thoughts of what the coming days may bring, as the soft thrum of the meadow lulled me to sleep.