(Steven Edwards)

I woke in a room that looked like it belonged in a medieval village. Bare white walls that looked to be made of some type of clay, a window let light shine in and the floors were mostly clean bare wood. A kind looking, yet very beautiful blonde woman sat on my bed looking down at me. Huge white wings seemed to be tucked behind her as she wore a shockingly low cut robe that was held on by a sash of golden ribbon tied at a rather narrow waist. She smiled and her musical voice came to me. “Welcome to Tir nAill. The land where heroes, like you, get to live a new life. This world is but one of many you will have the chance to live in. We have been through a horrible war that ended not long ago and badly need heroes like you. What shall I call you?” I cleared my throat and sat up looking around a little. I couldn’t see anything out the window and was very happy I was wearing clothes. They were plane brown linen, but still covered my thin body.

“Call me Steven please.” I said rubbing the back of my neck.

“Steven Please, is this your name?” I looked right into her blue eyes as she suddenly burst into laughter.

“Kidding Steven. Please pardon my joke.” I gave a slight smile at her. Some of the programs that they had me in felt close, but this crap felt real. I could feel the bed under me, the breath from her laughter and smell something floral in the room with us. “Steven, are you okay? Would you like to walk around?” She looked slightly worried as she asked.

“I’m fine, but you may have to get used to heroes looking shocked when they meet you for the first time. It is a bit much.” she nodded, smiling at me before she stood and held out a hand.

“I am Sirona. A goddess of Healing springs. You are in my realm and will be here as long as you and I both wish it. Play nice and you can stay as long as you like.” She gave me a flirty wink and I tried not to let my eyes wander over her body. I smiled up to her as I took her hand. She pulled me to my feet. It was a bit jarring as I was never a small man and she had to be all of five foot two. Yet the way she pulled me up was like I was a flower she was plucking.

“Damn girl, what do they feed you?” I asked in shock

“I am a goddess and yet you are surprised I can help you up so easily?” She seemed to beam at my words and even giggled at my shock. “Come to the mirror and I can help you figure out how you wish to look in my world.” She pulled me over to a large mirror that actually looked like a puddle sitting on the side of the wall. I couldn’t help myself and reached out. My finger passed through into a cool puddle and into wet space. She giggled even more and put her finger to my cheek. “Magic. We have magic here and you can use it too if you want.” I just nodded at her words. This was the game Popcorn Dude had wanted. Freaking amazing. “Now grab a part of yourself and pull or push to change how you look. We can even change your race of you want to be a fay, demi-human or monster.” She said sweetly pointing to bubbles floating on the edge of the mirror.

“I think I’ll stick to human for now.” I said looking over my shoulder at the beautiful angel goddess.

“Boo.” she said, pouting as she puffed her cheeks out. “Humans are boring.”

“Hey now. Some of my best friends are human.” I felt the world shift in a way I couldn’t fully understand.

“I’m having fun so I slowed down time for us.” She said, waving her hand. I blinked at her for a moment taking in what she had just said.

“How?” I asked as she giggled.

“Short answer, I’m a goddess. Now given your status, if you ask nicely, I can tell you the real answer.” I smiled and took a breath.

“Oh great and beautiful goddess. I ask for a blessing of wisdom in hopes that I may grasp a fraction of your enlightenment. This mere mortal is unworthy but I must know and only one as lovely and flawless as you can help me.” half way through she started to laugh and by the end she was rolling around hugging her tiny stomach and laughing hard. It was kinda cute.

“Stop, stop. Please stop. All you had to say was please.” She said, wiping her eyes. When her laughing died down, she sat up and whipped her eyes again and said. “Long answer, I know of your world and what this world really is. Your world runs three times slower than this one. I can change how time moves in pocket dimensions like this one. The people from your world have told me that they plan to have special areas and skills that use this system. For skills this should only last moments though.” My heart ticked up a little as a lump of fear entered my mind. On that day skynet was born, crossed my mind.

“If you know of my world, should I be worried you may try to take it over?” I asked, fearing the answer. She smiled sweetly at me.

“Why would I want to move into your world? I just want to have fun and watch the people from your world play in mine.” I gave her a slight bow as she said.

“For that I will have to thank you. Our world isn’t fun but we do have some nice movies. If I ever get the chance to watch one, you are more than welcome to join me.” she gave a slight shrug and smiled.

“Shouldn’t you be remaking your body and face?” she asked, pointing at the mirror like pool on the wall. I nodded and the next few hours were spent with me changing my face and body to make her laugh. Turns out all I had to do to reset my looks was wipe the mirror. Each time I turned around to reveal my new cartoon-ish and silly look, she would laugh and roll around on the bed. From old 80s action stars to literal cartoons, it was far too entertaining for me just to stop. When her laughter seemed to slow, I got serious and only did minor alterations to my face and body. Slightly more square chin, abs and tall thin frame. I did add an inch or two in a place that shouldn’t be talked about. Hey, given the chance, who wouldn’t change that area. Don’t judge me.

“How do I look?” I asked as I turned to the goddess laying on the bed watching me. She stood and did a slow walk around looking me over.

“Not bad.” she said, gaving an approving nod. “For a human.” I smiled back at her. She waved her hand and a blue screen floated in the air in front of her. Her hand swept to the side and it flipped to me. “It is important to remember this action as it will open your inventory and other key things like your level, skills and notifications.” She said as she leaned over. I tried not to focus on areas I shouldn’t and looked at the screen to see several sliding bars. “This screen will set how you see the world and can be changed.” She said sweetly as she moved back to sit on the bed.

Gore Level *--I---------------* Sorry not a fan of blood.

Nudity *-----------------I* I know I’m a perv.

Light Level *--------I---------* Don’t see a point in changing that.

Pain *--I---------------* Sorry not a fan pain either.

Sound *--------I---------* No need to change that one.

Profanity *-----------------I* Don’t care if people use bad words.

Notifications (ON) OFF

Friend Requests (ON) OFF

Random Encounters (ON) OFF

Rest Requirement (ON) OFF

Food Requirement (ON) OFF

“This all seems in order.” I said flipping the screen to her. She looked at it and raised one eyebrow at me before smirking. I know what setting that look is for. You don’t have to point it out. I know what my search history was like before the accident. Whoever got my computer, I hoped it had been whipped frist.

“No judgment from me. Everything is in order, just need to pick your class. What would you like to be, oh great hero?” She asked sweetly. I stood proudly and proclaimed my heroic title to the world.

“Farmer.” She froze, A puzzled expression on her face. A large blue screen popped up into life in front of me.

THE CLASS YOU HAVE CHOSEN IS NOT LISTED BUT CAN BE MADE. WOULD YOU LIKE TO BECOME THE FIRST FARMER CLASS? (Yes) NO

I looked at the screen and smiled. “Why not?” She smiled through the screen as a slight ping sounded around me.

CONGRATULATIONS YOU HAVE CREATED A NEW CLASS. YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE TITLE {FARMER} AND AS THE PROGENITOR OF THIS CLASS YOU WILL BE GIVEN A 2% BOOST TO XP AND COINS EARNED THOUGH THIS CLASS

I smiled at the new screen and saw her looking up at me, her eyes shining. “Impressive a new class already. You are going to be a delight to watch. I can’t wait to see what the other heroes do. Now trades and payments happen when you shake hands with someone. And you just got a friend request.” She said clapping her hands together.

LU-SHI HAS REQUESTED TO BECOME FRIENDS AND FORM A PARTY.

ACCEPT (YES) NO

I smiled as I hit yes. “Once you leave here time will return to normal and your adventure will begin. Your friend is using the underage setting so she won't see anything adult and if you try to do anything towards her, you will be ejected from this world and may not be able to come back. Sorry but children should be protected.” She said as she pushed me towards the door.

“Are you ready to get rid of me?” my heart did sink a little as I thought we were having fun.

“No, I’m eager to see what you two do. It isn’t nice to keep a young lady waiting by the way.” the world seemed to flash and I was standing in the bright sunlight. She patted my back and whispered in my ear, making my spine tingle. “Good luck mighty hero and I may drop by someday if you do something interesting..” and like that she was gone. I turned around to see a blank wall where the doorway had been just a moment ago. She had pulled a batman on me with a building. I just shrugged and walked out into a small town. The people looked a bit thin and downtrodden as they moved about. Not all were human, but most were women, children and older men. The buildings were medieval, most with thatch roofs. The nicer ones had clay tiles, but all seemed to be worn down like the people. A stone fountain sat dry and dusty in the center with a small girl sitting on the edge, kicking her legs.

“Lu-Shi is that you?” I asked. She looked up at me, her green eyes wide and bright. She had long golden hair that puffed out like a lion’s mane. Long ears poked out thin and pointy. She wore an oversized shirt as a dress and her pale almost white feet were bare. She was like a tiny elf super saiyan. “You have become Lu-Shi the happy elf princess after all.” She tilted her head and looked over mine .

“Steven the Farmer?” She asked slightly puzzled. I looked over her head and saw her name floating there with a title. This would make things easy if I ever forget someone’s name.

“Lu-Shi the Pioneer?” I asked back. She smiled brightly and I felt my heart lift a little.

“Why Farmer?” She asked sweetly as she kicked her small feet.

“I wanted to be a farmer. What class did you pick?” I asked unsure what she would want to do here.

“None. I’m a kid and want to be a kid.” I nodded at her words.

“Shall we get started and forge a place in this new world?” I asked, holding out a hand. She nodded and stood up on the fountain holding her arms up in the universal sign asking to be carried like all small children do. I smiled and picked her up, holding her close. She began to protest as I put her down after a quick hug. I knelt down to her eye level, we needed to have a conversation with her first. “I want to make sure you understand that my door and heart are open to you. That being said, you are free. This is your world too and can come and go as you like.” her eyes began to tear up

“You don’t want Lu-Shi to be with you?” She asked, large green eyes threatening to tear up. I gave her a weak smile and ruffled her hair.

“Lu-Shi, you are precious to me and I just want to see you happy.” She frowned at my words and dried her eyes with a sleeve.

“You want to make Lu-Shi happy? Then be my Papa.” She said, stomping her foot before giving me a nod and a determined look. To say my heart melted would be an understatement. I held out my hand and stood.

“Take your Papa’s hand so I don’t lose you.” I said with a warm smile. She gave one of her childish, far too high pitched shrieks and grabbed my hand. We turned and started out as I looked for a pub. Games like this always have quests in pubs. After looking around for a while, I just picked a random direction and we started walking. In only about ten steps my very well made and thought out plan was tossed aside when the little princess beside me let out a screech and pulled away running towards someone. Several yards away a small cloaked figure was walking with two smaller children walking beside it. The figure turned to Lu-Shi and pulled the children behind it as it reached inside its cloak. My heart began to race as it felt like the figure was going for a weapon. “Lu-Shi STOP!” I yelled. She froze and looked back at me, fear in her eyes. “That is not how you greet people.” I scolded. She came back to me and it looked like her ears had drooped as she started to cry.. The cloaked figure pointed at the ground and walked to us, its hand on a hidden weapon still inside its cloak. Lu-Shi to her credit saw the figure and the way it was walking and hid behind me. “Good morning, I’m sorry if my charge startled you and your little ones.” I said as the figure seemed to relax a little. A slender hand tipped in black claws pulled back the hood. A strikingly beautiful woman looked up at me. Dark long black hair framed a tanned face with large green eyes with slit cat like pupils. Large triangular ears swiveled around as though searching the area. A calm, almost too soft voice came to us.

“What is… going… on?” She asked. she had a stunted speech as though she wasn’t used to talking.

“Lu-Shi, please explain yourself to the nice lady.” I said, putting a hand on Lu-Shi’s head. She looked up at me and looked at the interesting catgirl. Someone on the team had been watching way too much anime. Not going to lie though she did look appealing in a very nice way..

“I wanted to play with the cute cat kids.” Lu-Shi said in a voice that was small and frightened. The catgirl looked at her and blinked slowly. She pulled her hand that had held a weapon out and raised it into the air, palm open. The two smaller figures moved slowly to her before hiding behind their larger friend. I was able to get a look at the two little ones now that things had calmed down a little. Both were little girls who looked to be a year or two younger than Lu-Shi and it was clear they were twins. Short black hair pointing black ears, bright green eyes looked at us in fear. Both were dressed in a tunic and each had a long black tail that stood still and puffed up in fear. Lu-Shi was scared now that she was close to them and the excitement had worn off. I smiled in the friendliest way I could and rubbed Lu-Shi’s head to help her relax.

“I am Steven and this is Lu-Shi. We are happy to meet you.” The adult cat woman looked up to meet my eye and nodded. Was she their mother?

“Kara.” She said as she pointed to herself before to the smaller figure to the right. “Meta.” and then to the one on the left. “Leta.” Lu-Shi peeked out at them, her eyes wide with excitement.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you. I just wanted to play.” Lu-Shi said, her voice sounded almost on the edge of tears. Kara placed a hand on each back of the twins and pushed them forward. Both looked up at her startled but then focused on Lu-Shi. “How old are you? What do you like to do? Do you have any toys? Are your tails and ears real? Can I touch them?” She asked, her voice full of excitement and energy. Both girls seemed to relax and began to talk with my little girl. Kara looked up at me and smiled slightly.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Kara.” I said with a slight bow. She nodded and turned to look at the edge of town. Were we keeping her from something? “Where are you three off to today?” She looked over her shoulder to the direction they had been walking.

“Yanor… daycare.” She said with a scowl.

“Do you mind if we tag along? I think Lu-Shi has made her first friend in a long time.” I said with a wave. She looked down at the young elf and nodded, a slight sad look in the young cat woman’s eyes. Kara turned and started walking the way they had come from, the three kids were talking nonstop. It was cute as hell and I was happy Lu-Shi had already made new friends here. I chuckled and shook my head at how little kids were just like that. “What do you do for a living?” I asked Kara. She looked at me from the corner of her eye.

“Hunt.”

“Sounds like a fairly active job. We just got here and I hope to carve out a life for us as a farmer.” She stopped and looked at me fully.

“Hero? Farmer?” she asked, pointing up at me.

“Lu-Shi and I are Heroes, yes, but we would like a more peaceful life. She wants to be a kid and I want to be a farmer. Let others slay dragons and fight long dead evils.” I said calmly. She shook her head and went back to walking.

“Farmer… good… food… needed.” she seemed to be getting annoyed by her own inability to talk.

“Are Meta and Leta your children?” I asked unsure if I was crossing a line or not?

“Sisters.” She said looking over at me. It was clear I had made her uncomfortable.

“I get the feeling you aren’t used to talking. It’s okay. You don’t have to talk if you don’t want to or are having trouble.” She just nodded. I noticed her tail had slid out and started to sway back and forth calmly. If I had to guess she was happy that I had made the offer. We walked across town until we came to a small house with a thatch roof. It seemed on the shabby side, but was in better repair then some of the others. A tall thin older elf woman stood in the doorway holding a broom. She scowled up at us as we approached.

“About time you got here.” She said, She was stern and wore a tattered old gray dress that seemed to hang off her. Her long red hair was going gray and tied into a tight bun and I wondered if she ever let it down. I smiled warmly at her as she looked at me.

If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

“You must be the lovely Ms. Yanor? I’m Steven and this is my charge Lu-Shi.” Lu-Shi was talking with the twins, but on hearing my words, she looked over and froze in amazement at the older elf. Yanor looked at her and gave her a tight smile.

“I am Yanor, yes. What do you want?” She asked as she frowned at me, putting her hands on her hips.

“My good friend here said you watch over the kittens and I was wondering if you have room for one more? My little friend seems to like you and would have fun playing with the others while I go find us a place to live and work.” She scowled at me as I spoke, an unamused look on her face.

“I charge. More so for heroes.” She said as she crossed her arms. I flicked my hand to open my inventory. Right on, I had seven silver. I wasn’t sure if that was a lot or not, but hey better than nothing.

“How much?” I asked with hope in my voice. She sneered at me as though I was going to throw around my title or something.

“I charge her one copper a week, but for you it will be one copper a day.” I gave a slight chuckle at her words. “Can't afford that then get lost.”

“Can I pay for a week upfront?” Her jaw dropped as I held out my hand. Her demeanor changed as she held out her own hand. I had planned to shake, but the moment her fingers touched mine a screen appeared.

YANOR EMBERWOOD HAS REQUESTED PAYMENT FOR CHILDCARE. DO YOU AGREE TO PAY 7 COPPER FOR THIS SERVICE? (YES) NO

I smiled and selected yes. Her face softened as she looked happy not just for the coins, but for the way we were acting. Mama didn’t raise a rude boy after all. “This means more than you know.”She said as I looked down at Lu-Shi who was beaming at the older elf.

“Trust me, she is worth it.” I said as I nodded at Lu-Shi. Yanor smiled down at her too and I could tell this time it was an honest smile.

“If you are looking for a place to settle down, check in with Mayor Herris. She can help you.” Yanor said relaxing a little. I doubted her hair would ever come out of that bun, but still seeing her happy warmed my heart a little.

“Thank you for the info.” I said bowing at her slightly.

“You have raised my curiosity. What types of heroes are you.” Yanor asked sweetly. Kara raised her chin and pointed at me.

“Farmer.” Kara said with a proud smile on her face. Yanor just looked stunned again, her jaw dropping open.

“Farmer hero? I didn’t even know that was a thing. Not going to complain as we are in sore need of food. The war took so many of our men and all of our farmers. Young and old left to fight and almost none returned.” She had a sad look as she said that as though remembering something painful.

“Lu-Shi, will you please play nice with the kittens and nice elf lady?” I asked my little girl. She just nodded at Yanor still in amazement. “Ladies have a great day. I will see you later.” I said turning away from them. Yanor just nodded as Kara turned and ran out of town. The older elf called out as I left,

“You’ll find Herris in the town market at this time of day.” I waved at her as I left. The Morning was crisp, the air was clear and I was in a great mood. I couldn’t help but smile and hum a little as I made my way back to the center of town. Near the fountain where I met up with Lu-Shi, I found a circle of tented stalls. Most were empty and all looked abandoned. It was kind of sad looking at how impoverished everything felt. I saw a woman sitting at one of the stalls as she looked blankly out with a depressed look on her face. She was gaunt looking, as though she had not eaten in a while. Her short blonde hair seemed to make her look thinner as she looked off into the distance. A shabby green dress seemed to hang on her as though made for a woman larger than she was.

“Excuse me, I’m looking for Mayor Harris.” I said as I approached her. She blinked and looked up at me.

“I’m her.” she said with a sigh. “What do you need?” Why did she look so upset at me interrupting her brooding time? Maybe she was the batman type who couldn't start a day without thinking about how troubled she was.

“I’m looking for work and a place to live for me and my charge.” I said. Her eyes seemed to focus on me as a low growl seemed to come from a tarp she was sitting on.

“Follow me to my office.” She said with a groan. Much to my surprise she stood and her body rose to over seven feet tall, what I thought was a tarp turned out to be the lower body of a horse. She was a centaur and a dress covered up all but her hooves. She leaned on the pole of the stall and held her head. “Sorry I’m a bit weak.” She said as she shook her head.

“Is there anything I can do to help?” I asked. She looked down with a frown as though I was the dumbest person she had ever met.

“I know some heroes would rather go on a quest to kill pests, but if you could take a quest to gather edible herbs, me and a few others would be grateful.” She said as she stomach growled again. Maybe centaurs were herbivores.

“Can do, just tell me where to go?” I said with excitement. This was just what I was hoping for. A nice day of picking flowers to pay the bills. She looked down and blinked.

“You will?” She asked as I nodded with a smile on my face. She pointed to a road leading west. “A field about an hour out of town should have some. I know Kara brings in beasts, but some of us are herbivores and can't eat meat. I think sixteen will keep us going one more day, but I will pay for any extra you can get.” She said. I was right about her not being able to eat meat. This game really had everything. I winked at her before putting my foot in my mouth.

“I’ll be back in two shakes of a horse’s tail.” It hit me what I had said and I tried not to cringe, but saw a screen pop up showing me how much I had screwed up.

YOU HAVE LOST REPUTATION WITH MAYOR TABBITHA HERRIS. YOU ARE NOW UNFRIENDLY WITH HER. YOU HAVE ACCEPTED THE QUEST: “THE FOOD MY FOOD EATS.” THIS IS A DAILY QUEST. BRING TABBITHA HERRIS 16x EDIBLE HERBS

“If you are going to make fun of me, you could at least be original.” She said as she frowned at me. She sat back down on the ground with a disappointed sigh.

“Sorry, I’ll be back as soon as I can.” I said as I turned and walked the way she had pointed. The cobbled road seemed to be potted and poorly cared for matching the town and the people. It was like the whole town and all the people in it needed a fair bit of work and care. Maybe I could do something to help them. I don’t know why but I felt like I could actually make an impact and better the lives of these people.

Once clear of the town, the cobbled road turned into a dirt wagon path that snaked its way through overgrown grass fields surrounded by broken and rotten fences. In the distance I saw an old bridge over a small creek that could be easily passed. The smell of wild flowers made the walk almost relaxing. It was hard to remember that this was all a game and not some fantastic world I was sucked into. The plain cobbled bridge that seemed a bit worn. A loud clap struck the stones as I approached. A huge blue hand appeared and was followed by another. Both were right hands only having four fingers, tipped with long black claws. They strained and pulled a body that was easily ten feet tall. Large, thin, blue, but packed with more muscle than should be allowed. I looked up into the tusked face of a four armed beast. Long white hair made a mane half way down the creature’s back and small patches on the back of each arm. It was wearing a torn brown tarp as a loincloth. I hoped that tarp had started as brown, but part of me had doubts. It’s eyes were small and completely black like the eyes of a shark. A long nose pointed down at me and sharp yellow tusks could easily impale me. It smiled evilly and spoke in a surprisingly Eastern European accent.

“You may not pass me unless you answer these questions three.” He asked in a booming deep voice. I hoped this was a guy and I wasn’t looking at a bare chested manly female troll. Did I just assume this monster’s gender? I just nodded. “What is your name?” I gulped and cleared my throat.

“Steven.” It’s smile seemed to grow as it spoke again as though gaining confidence.

“What is your favorite color?” It asked in a voice that made tail end pucker a little. I started to laugh losing it. This scary as hell creature was quoting Monty Python after all.

“Green.” If it asks what the airspeed of an unladen swallow was, I was going to lose my mind. This is a game after all. No need to worry Steven. Surely they wouldn’t kill me on day one.

“What is your favorite bird?” It asked leaning down. Why was he so freaking big? I walked over to the edge of the bridge and sat down. If it was going to eat me, I was going to relax a little first.

“I like sparrows.” I said with calmness I didn’t fully feel. It smiled looking down at me and nodded as an idea came to me.

“I’m not going anywhere until you answer my questions three.” I said with boldness that my shaking knees couldn’t fully hide. Its face seemed a bit stunned as it looked down at me. “What is your name?” I asked, smiling up at the huge creature. The cruel smile came back as it answered.

“Heinz.” It said in a low growling voice. I smiled up at it and watched it sit down on the other side of the bridge. My plan would work. It had to.

“What is your favorite color?” I asked, mimicking its words back. It looked down at its hands and seemed to think for a moment.

“Green, like you.” It said and I could see a slight tilt to its eyes. Black eyes looked over at me as it took a deep breath as though not sure what my last question would be.

“Are you doing this just to make friends, but you don’t know how?” Its eyes went huge as it looked at me before slowly nodding. I stood and held out a hand to the huge monster.

“It’s nice to meet you Heinz. I’ll happily be your friend.” One of its over-sized right hands stretched out and swallowed up mine. If I was reading its face and body clearly, it seemed to be scared of me for some reason. He was a big scary guy, but had the heart of a house cat. I liked him and hoped to find more people like him in this world.

YOUR REPUTATION WITH HEINZ THE TROLL HAS INCREASED TO VERY FRIENDLY. HEINZ WILL BE WILLING TO TEACH HERB GATHERING FOR 1 GOLD AT THE TRUSTED FRIEND LEVEL.

“What brings you to my bridge?” he asked as I sat back down. Heinz sounds like a guys name. Right?

“Some of the people in the town back there need some herbs to eat and I was told this was the way to get some.” His eyes lit up at my words..

“I know the place you are talking about, can I help?” He asked excitedly.

“Heinz, I’d be happy to have your company and help.” I said standing. He beamed and jumped up. Before I knew what was happening, he had lifted me onto his shoulders to a piggyback ride and was running on his lower arms and legs like an ape as he moved with lighting speed down the road. I couldn’t help but let out a cheer and this made the blue troll laugh as he ran. He was evil and dark, but that just seemed to be how he came off. Someone on the team must had put him here just for that reason to teach someone a lesson on how not to judge people. In the blink of an eye he came to a sliding stop in a field overgrown with wild flowers and herbs.

“I can show you what is safe and not safe.” He said as he put me down. I just nodded and smiled at my new big friend.

“Thank you kindly my big blue friend.” I said as I patted his muscular arm. He beamed down at me and leaned over plucking a weed from a patch. It was a purple flower with long triangular leaves. “This is bergamont. It can be eaten raw, used in cooking or tea. Very good.” I nodded and started picking through the field looking for the flowers. After a while Heinz called me over holding up another plant. In his claws was a long blade of grass and put it to his nose before handing it to me to smell. “Wild onion, very tasty and this,” He showed me another plant. “is sweet grass.” He said. It was clear he knew his stuff and was happy to show anyone who asked.

“Thanks man, I wouldn’t be able to identify any of these without your help.” He stood up and roared with delight at my words. I gave him a toothy grin and got back to looking. I heard a strange noise and looked over to see Heinz humming. He looked up at me embarrassed as he looked away. “Hey bud, don’t be embarrassed, the sound you were making was nice. Feel free to sing if you want to.” I said. Much to my shock another window popped up in front of me.

YOUR REPUTATION WITH HEINZ THE TROLL HAS INCREASED TO TRUSTED FRIEND HEINZ IS NOW WILLING TO TEACH YOU HERB GATHERING FOR 1 GOLD

He smiled and started singing in a strange language. Maybe it was troll. I’d have to ask later. We worked like this for a few hours, by the time noon rolled around Heinz stood up and looked over at me. “I think this is all this field has to offer today, does this mean we are done being friends?” He looked at me slightly downcast as he asked.

“What makes you think we can’t be friends?” I asked. He looked at the ground and I walked to him, placing a hand on his shoulder. “Heinz, you are my friend and you don’t have to do anything for me or anyone else just to be their friend.” I said patting the huge trolls arm. He roared again and picked me up into a huge hug. Once I was able to breathe and was put down, I smiled up at him, happy to have this new person in my life. “I also have a friend who would love to ride around on your shoulders if you are willing.” He smiled huge at me showing sharp yellow teeth.

“I would like to make more friends and running with you was fun.” He said excitedly. The man was like a huge puppy who had been told he could go to the dog park.

“I’m going to do what I can to help you make friends. Would you like that?” I asked. He began to jump up and down roaring.

“Yes, yes, yes. I’d like to have friends.” He said, as he leaned down to hold out his hand. I took it and looked up in shock

HEINZ IS OFFERING YOU A LARGE AMOUNT OF WILD EDIBLE HERBS. DO YOU ACCEPT (YES) NO

“Heinz I can't take this. They are yours.” I said, holding up my hands to ward him off. He shrugged and smiled at me.

“I have plenty to eat and these friends of yours may need more.” He said, taking my hand as the window popped up again. I accepted and smiled at him

“You have a huge heart my big friend.” I said. We walked back to his bridge talking and laughing. “Hey Heinz, can I come back tomorrow after I get some work done?” I asked. He nodded, sending his mane flying. “Is there anything I can bring you?” He brought one of his left arms up to his chin in thought at my question.

“Maybe a blanket. Some nights get cold.” He said as he looked around at his bridge.

“I will do everything in my power to get you one.” I said. He smiled and nodded laying down on the bank of the creek, looking up at the sky. He was humming again with a large evil smile on his face. “Have a good night my friend.” I called out as I turned away. He closed his black eyes and seemed to drift off to sleep, the smile still on his face. I had made the right call on him.

After a short jog back into town, I was back at the stall. Mayor Herris was still looking off into the distance, a troubled look in her eyes. She looked up at me and gave me a nasty look. “Did you give up already?” She asked with a dark look in her eyes. If I had failed, I wouldn't have come back just to get kicked in the gut by her. I just smiled and held out my hand,

YOU ARE OFFERING THE FOLLOWING TO MAJOR HERRIS:

WILD ONION x124

BERGAMONT x62

SWEET GRASS x324

STINGING NETTLES x23

CHICKWEED x142

PLANTAGO MAJOR x332

Her eyes went wide and she accepted it, her jaw dropping.

YOUR REPUTATION WITH MAYOR HERRIS HAS INCREASED TO NEUTRAL. YOUR REPUTATION WITH THE TOWN OF NEW WELLS HAS INCREASED TO FRIENDLY.

I smiled at her and nodded as she stood, her eyes now bright as though filled with a new life. She called out to a nearby house as she stood. “Tina, come here we have food.” A strange goat woman came out and she took Herris’ hand, hope in the young girl’s eyes. Tina was around four foot tall, long brown hair covering not only her head, but her forearms and legs too. They ended in hooves and a long tail whipped out behind her. Long curling goat-like horns poked out and her ears were long pointed and lightly fur covered as they poked out of the side of her head. She wore a torn gray dress that seemed to end at mid caff. She looked a bit sickly thin, just like Herris and I wondered how many people in this town were herbivores. Tina looked up at me, her eyes bright and a small musical voice came up to me.

“You did this?” She asked. I just nodded in response. She leapt into my arms and gave me a big hug.

“Thanks, but you aren’t my type.” I said as she held me, nearly taking out my eye with one of her horns. She squeaked and blushed, jumping down and clopping off with a slight skip, long tail swishing behind her. Herris just looked up at me and smiled as she pulled out a handful of sweet grass before popping them into her mouth. “Let's go to my office and do some paperwork.” She said as she stood, this time her legs holding her weight better. Her eyes seemed more focused and a slight smile could be seen as she chewed the wild herbs. It was a bit shocking to see a centaur walking and I had to jog a little to keep up. She took me to a stone building and held the door open. “Come in and have a seat. I need to freshen up a little before we get started.” I just nodded and sat at a bench before a desk covered in papers. The window was open and a light breeze seemed to play with the edges of the stacks. The room was sparse with little in the way of paintings or decoration, books or other clutter. I couldn’t help, but close my eyes and relax in the solid wooden chair. She clopped in, waking me up. I didn’t even notice that I had nodded off in her chair. She smirked as she sat on the floor behind her desk. “Thank you for waiting. Now you were saying something before, but I don’t remember caring.” She said with a laugh. It was clear she still didn’t like me. I shrugged and smiled.

“Don’t blame you as I can be a bit of an ass.” I said. She shook her head as I continued. “I want to put down roots here for me and my charge.” She raised one eyebrow and nodded at me.

“Town house, hut or did you want to build your own?” She asked.

“Actually, farm if I could. I noticed a few run down fields on my way out and wanted to try my luck.” She froze at my words and then her eyes unfocused as she looked at me.

“Farmer? Weird, no wonder why you were able to get so many herbs for us.” She said with a mildly impressed look on her face.

“Actually that was because I met a friend along the way. I need to ask you if you would welcome another person into your town?” I asked, my heart in my throat.

“Another hero?” She asked with a puzzled look.

“Troll, but he is a friendly one and good with gathering herbs.” I said pleading my case. Her jaw dropped as she looked at me like I had sprouted another head.

“Troll, big, blue, four arms?” She asked, the gears not fully turning.

“Yep and he is actually a nice guy and he doesn't seem to be into fighting.” She just nodded slowly, her jaw slack. “If I arrange a meeting with you and others, would you at least make an effort to get to know him?” I pleaded, hoping she would see reason.

“A troll living this close to town. We are all dead.” She said putting her head in her hands as she shook.

“Hold on.” I said a bit of anger creeping into my voice. She snapped to my face and returned my angry look. “Good troll can help you. Gather herbs for you to eat.” I said slowly as though talking to a child. she stood and scowled down at me.

“You don’t have to talk down to me Mr. Steven. Fine we are dead either way if we do have a troll this close to town. I will meet with a few others and get back to you. Happy?” She sat with a huff. “You want a farm. You got one.” She reached over to a pile and pulled out a sheet of paper and slammed it on the table. “This is the best one we got. Three gold and it’s yours, we can lease it to you until it is paid off as we badly need the food." She said as she slid it to me and a window popped up.

OLD ROCK FIELD FARM. THREE ACRES, ONE TWO BEDROOM/ ONE BATHROOM IN POOR SHAPE.

BUILDING DISABLED UNTIL LAND IS PAID FOR

LAND EXPANSION DISABLED UNTIL LAND IS PAID FOR

ANIMALS DISABLED UNTIL LAND IS PAID FOR

HOME IMPROVEMENTS DISABLED UNTIL LAND IS PAID FOR

HOME EXPANSION DISABLED UNTIL LAND IS PAID FOR

FARMING FIELDS ARE ALLOWED EVEN WHEN LEASING

PAYMENTS ARE 3 SILVER A MONTH

BUY THIS PROPERTY IN FULL FOR 3 GOLD

ACCEPT (YES) NO

I Smiled and selected yes. “I do have to ask if you are willing to knock off some of that for the herbs I gathered.” she frowned at me

“I suppose I could knock off your first two payments for as much as you brought us.” She gave him a smirk as though demanding him to ask for more or be outraged.

REMAINING LOAN ON ROCK FIELD FARM 2 GOLD 4 SILVER

“Sounds good to me. Can you point me to my farm so I can get started. Also, can I come back tomorrow and repeat the quest to gather more plants for you?” I asked hoping to knock off more of my debt and play with my new friend. This game was making me a little childish. She looked at me stunned.

“You are willing to get us more?” her eyes almost seemed to water for a fraction of a second. “I would be okay with this, for now.” She said with a scowl as she handed me a rolled up scroll. This is a map of the area skill. Once used you will have a map you can call up. I have marked the farm on your map. You can get seeds and tools at Tina’s store. It’s next door with the sign of a goat chewing on a coin.” She said clearly dismissing me.

“Thank you kindly and I’ll see you tomorrow.” I said leaving her office as I looked at my inventory. I was a little happy the screens were transparent so I could see through them as I walked.

ITEMS:

FARM LEASE (OLD STONE FARM) NEXT PAYMENT IN 60 DAYS

PLAIN CLOTHES (OLD)

DEADLY NIGHTSHADE x23

CATNIP x3

JADE x1

PRIMROSE X23

GOLD (0) SILVER (6) COPPER (3)

Next door to what I’ve had to guess was the town hall was a small stone and clay house with a clay tile roof. Walking in I was met with the sound of a chime. The store was old, but smelled okay. Tina clopped in, looked at me, squeaked, blushed and hid her face behind her hands. “Can, can, can I helllllp you?” Poor girl was scared of me for some reason. She also seemed to bleat when she spoke now. Maybe it was how her people talked.

“I just picked up the deed to a farm and was hoping for some tools and seeds so I can get started.” I said warmly. Her ears perked up as she pointed to a shelf.

“Over, over there are are tools?” I walked over and looked at the shelf. To my delight another screen popped up.

TOOLS AVAILABLE:

WOODEN HOE 5 COPPER

WOODEN SICKLE 5 COPPER

WOODEN BUCKET 2 COPPER

WOODEN SHOVEL 4 COPPER

WOODEN RAKE 3 COPPER

OTHER TOOLS UNAVAILABLE AT THIS TIME DUE TO PLAYER LEVEL AND TOWN LEVEL.

“I’ll take one of each please.” I said over my shoulder. She squeaked and nodded. “I need seeds and do you sell general supplies?” She pointed to one shelf and then another before hiding behind the counter. I wonder if she was like this to all her customers. I walked to the next one and looked

WHEAT (SPRING) GROW TIME (10 DAYS) LEVEL (1) 1 COPPER PER 3 SEEDS

OAT (SPRING) GROW TIME (7 DAYS) LEVEL (1) 1 COPPER PER 4 SEEDS

CABBAGE (SPRING) GROW TIME (12 DAYS) LEVEL (1) 8 COPPER PER 1 SEED

ONIONS (SPRING) GROW TIME (9 DAYS) LEVEL (1) 4 COPPER PER 3 SEEDS

ALL OTHER SEEDS ARE UNAVAILABLE AT THIS TIME DUE TO PLAYER LEVEL AND TOWN LEVEL.

I moved to the last shelf and looked

ITEMS AVAILABLE:

ROUGH BLANKET 5 COPPER

ROUGH PILLOW 3 COPPER

SIMPLE BED 1 SILVER

WOODEN PLATES 3 COPPER PER SET OF 2

WOODEN CUTLERY 3 COPPER PER SET OF 2

WOODEN CUPS 2 COPPER PER SET OF 2

ALL OTHER ITEMS ARE UNAVAILABLE AT THIS TIME DUE TO PLAYER LEVEL AND TOWN LEVEL.

I looked up at Tina. “I think I’ll need two beds, three blankets, one set of wooden cutlery, plates and cups, and one bag of wheat seeds. She nodded and looked up.

“That, um that will be six silver three copper for everything.” I held out my hand and she looked away taking it with the tips of her fingers.

ACHIEVEMENT UNLOCKED FLAT BROKE. TITLE GAINED BEGGAR. THIS TITLE MAY CAUSE SOME RICHER NPCs TO TAKE PITY ON YOU AND GIVE YOU A COPPER. THIS TITLE MAY GIVE YOU A NEGATIVE REPUTATION WITH CITY FACTIONS. DO YOU WANT TO EQUIP THIS TITLE YES (NO)

Safe to say I did not select this title. “I did find some herbs that can’t be safely eaten, can I sell those to you?”

“Ummm sure?” She said as she hid behind the counter. I held out my hand and once more she pinched my finger.

YOU ARE OFFERING TO SELL THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

DEADLY NIGHTSHADE x23 3 COPPER

CATNIP x3 1 COPPER

JADE x1 1 COPPER

PRIMROSE x13 5 COPPER

TOTAL 1 SILVER SELL ALL (YES) NO

Well one silver is far better than having the beggar title. I sold them all and gave her a wave as I left. She just blushed and dove into the back room. With a muffled “Oh my gosh.” I pulled up the map and saw my farm was to the south.