Bolg scrutinized Ethan with a discerning eye. "Shoulder wound, bad foot, lacerations likely to sick up. Any other injuries?"

Ethan shrugged, "Got a lot of bruises under the armor as well, took quite a beating."

Bolg grinned, "You did, didn't you? Well, we'll get you fixed up, but first things first." He rummaged in his bag for a moment, then handed Ethan a small vial containing purple liquid.

Ethan eyed it hesitantly. "What is this?"

"It'll dull the pain, make it a bit more bearable. It won't heal you, though, so you'll have to be careful not to get overconfident," Bolg explained. Ethan still felt uneasy about ingesting something that looked so potent.

"And is it safe? I've never drunk something like this," Ethan questioned, furrowing his brow. Bolg appeared shocked by his response.

"You've never had a potion? Who in the world hasn't... Never mind that. It's safe, and you better drink it. I'm not losing those points because you didn't drink it," Bolg insisted.

Ethan reluctantly took the vial, removed the stopper, and, with an unhappy glance at Bolg, drank the potion. It had a bitter taste, reminiscent of medicine with a hint of fermentation.

Bolg nodded in satisfaction. "Good. Now, let's move. We have a ways to go, but with some luck, we can reach my village before nightfall."

Ethan struggled to his feet, leaning heavily on his walking stick. Bolg effortlessly hoisted the fox over his shoulder, then came to Ethan's side, allowing him to lean on his shoulder. Bolg's strength astonished Ethan, but he couldn't ignore the overpowering feral odor emanating from him. He smelled like a wild animal.

Bolg dragged Ethan along, much to his discomfort. However, soon the potion took effect, and Ethan let out a sigh of relief. Bolg chuckled. "Feels good, doesn't it?"

Ethan nodded in agreement. "Damn right it does."

Bolg chuckled again, and they maintained a steady pace through the underbrush. Bolg seemed intimately familiar with the terrain, never hesitating in choosing a direction. After approximately 15 minutes, Ethan noticed they were heading toward a small, sturdy-looking horse. It resembled a large pony, but with exceptionally thick legs, a massive neck, and a long tail that nearly touched the ground.

Ethan observed the creature as Bolg gestured for him to mount. The horse stared back at him, snorting as if it had just insulted him. Bolg laughed. "It's a quest, old girl. Don't be like that." He patted the horse's thick neck, effortlessly lifting Ethan onto its back, followed by the fox.

Ethan felt a mix of shock and embarrassment at being handled like a child, but at least he wouldn't have to walk any longer. He loosely gripped the leather reins, but the horse turned its head and locked eyes with him. It even seemed to scowl, prompting Ethan to carefully release the reins.

The horse maintained its scowl for a few more seconds before snorting once again, eliciting another chuckle from Bolg. "She doesn't like anyone except me riding her. Just sit there, and I'll take care of the rest."

Ethan nodded, and they began moving. Bolg led them along animal trails that Ethan wouldn't have noticed on his own, and they seemed to be making good progress. Bolg appeared relaxed and asked, "So, what's your name? Forgot to ask back there."

Ethan's eyes constantly scanned the forest, reacting to every little sound, so his response was slightly distracted. "I'm Ethan Okamura."

Bolg made a disapproving sound and said, "Good to meet you, Ethan. How did you end up out here? People like you usually don't last long this deep in the Vold."

Ethan's eyes continued to roam, but he answered carefully, "I just ended up here... It wasn't by choice. I found myself in those mountains back there, and somehow I made my way here. So, this place is called the Vold, then?"

Bolg glanced back at Ethan. "You don't know about the Vold? You know, you're a strange fellow, Ethan Okamura. Even your name is weird. How did you say you ended up in the mountains?"

Ethan shrugged. "It's hard to explain... I just woke up in the mountain."

Bolg stopped and turned to Ethan. "In the mountain, you say?"

Ethan shrugged again. "That's what I said."

Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

Bolg eyed him. "As in inside the mountain?"

Ethan rolled his eyes. "Yes, inside the mountain. I fell into a river in there and was thrown out of a waterfall."

Bolg paled a little. "By all the gods and demons, what were you doing in there? That place is forbidden for a reason!"

Ethan was getting annoyed by Bolg's questions and lashed out, "Like I said, it wasn't by choice. And as for what I did, I was just trying to survive. Did you know that place is infested with goblins and some kind of giant centipede monster? I had to fight my way through that, and as you probably guessed, I am NOT a fighter! How do you think I got hurt this badly!?"

Bolg looked somewhat taken aback, and Ethan chastised himself. He was usually calm and collected, someone who thought before speaking. But he also had a temper, which had gotten him into trouble numerous times. And now he had let it get the best of him again.

People... People seemed to ignite his anger. He didn't like most people, or rather, most people didn't sit well with him.

Bolg continued to stare at him intently and said, "Goblins... Yes, there are a lot of those. You fought them, you said? That's good then. Those thieving little bastards need to have their noses bloodied from time to time. I have more questions, Ethan Okamura, and I'll get answers from you." He glanced up at the sun and frowned. "Later, though. We'll talk about this in more detail later!"

Ethan sighed and nodded. "Fine."

Bolg nodded as well and resumed dragging the grumpy horse, while Ethan gazed into the endless variations of green surrounding him. How he hated this forest...

As the sky began to darken, Ethan spotted lights in the distance. As they drew closer, a fairly large village spread out before them. They emerged from the forest canopy, revealing expansive fields and meadows. Ethan breathed a sigh of relief, grateful to be away from the oppressive trees, and he gazed longingly at the inviting glow of the distant lights.

Bolg walked alongside him, allowing the horse to find its own way back home. "This is Dervin's Rest, my village. Remember to mind your manners while you're here. We don't get many visitors, and those who do tend to find themselves unwelcome if they cause trouble."

Ethan frowned at Bolg. "I am perfectly capable of behaving like a normal person. I won't cause any trouble. Do I look like a troublemaker to you?"

Bolg grinned. "Well, Ethan Okamura, you're wearing nothing but armor. Frankly, you look like a perverted heathen prick."

Ethan rolled his eyes. "Not by choice. I'm pretty sure I've already explained that."

Bolg shrugged. "You asked, didn't you? Anyway, everyone gets the same warning, just in case. My wife will provide you with some proper clothes. We can't have you running around naked once you give me back that armor, after all."

Ethan sighed. "Thank you, Bolg. That would be appreciated."

As Ethan and Bolg ventured further into the village of Dervin's Rest, the serene backdrop of fields and meadows remained unchanged. However, an undercurrent of caution and suspicion tainted the air.

Whispers circulated among the villagers, their voices hushed as they exchanged speculations about Ethan's arrival. The villagers' eyes fixated on him, scrutinizing him with a mix of curiosity and uncertainty, silently questioning his presence.

As he passed by, the villagers momentarily paused their tasks, their gaze tracking Ethan's movements. A few bold individuals offered tentative greetings to Bolg, nodding or giving brief waves. Ethan, on the other hand, received reserved responses. The villagers regarded him with cautious reserve, their guarded expressions a reflection of the community's inherent wariness toward outsiders.

Feeling uncomfortable under their scrutiny, Ethan focused on looking straight ahead and avoided interacting with anyone.

As they strolled deeper into the village, Ethan noticed various craftsmen honing their skills. A blacksmith vigorously hammered a glowing piece of metal, sparks dancing through the air, while a weaver deftly wove intricate patterns on a loom. The village appeared self-sufficient, with its artisans fulfilling the needs of the community.

The distant sound of music reached Ethan's ears, drawing his attention to a lively gathering near the village square. Musicians played traditional melodies, filling the air with a sense of joy and celebration. Villagers swayed to the rhythm, and a gentle hum of conversation filled the space.

Amidst the quaint dwellings, Bolg's house stood prominently, embodying a medieval European architectural style. Sturdy timber beams and stone foundations showcased the craftsmanship of local artisans. The thatched roof, weathered by time, added a touch of rustic charm to its overall appearance.

Upon stepping inside, Ethan felt transported to another era. Rough-hewn wooden furniture adorned the rooms, simple yet functional. The flickering light of oil lamps cast dancing shadows on the rough stone walls, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.

Tapestries depicting local legends and historical events adorned the walls, capturing the village's shared heritage. Wooden shelves displayed aged books and scrolls. A crackling fire in the hearth provided both warmth and a cozy gathering spot.

At the heart of the house, the kitchen bustled with activity. Cast-iron cookware and earthenware pottery lined the shelves, and the aroma of freshly baked bread and hearty meals wafted through the air, offering a glimpse into the village's culinary traditions.

Beyond the main living area, a small courtyard provided a peaceful retreat from the bustling village life. Stone benches and a well served as focal points, inviting moments of contemplation.

Ethan couldn't help but admire the splendor of Bolg's house. Though modest by Earth's standards, it reflected his esteemed position within the community.

Bolg guided Ethan to a sturdy upholstered armchair, and he sank into it with a sigh of relief, finally able to find a moment of respite. It had been a challenging couple of days for him, and despite the villagers' unfriendly stares, he could at least take this opportunity to rest and heal.

Or so he thought...