Liam made his way to the leatherworker's shop that Rolf had recommended. The sign outside read "Zelkor's Fine Leather." Upon entering, he saw a lizard-kin working behind the counter. The man glanced up as the door creaked open.

"What do you want, boy?" Zelkor asked, sounding irritated. He spoke as Liam imagined a snake would.

"Um, I'm here to buy some armor," Liam replied hesitantly. He couldn't help but stare at Zelkor, as he had never encountered a lizard-kin before.

Zelkor's eyes narrowed as he scrutinized Liam. "You don't look like you've got the coin for my goods," he said gruffly. "And stop staring at me like I'm some sort of oddity."

Liam quickly averted his gaze and said, "I apologize. Rolf from The Slumbering Drake sent me. He said you're the best in the city."

At the mention of Rolf, Zelkor's demeanor changed. He let out a small chuckle and said, "Ah, Rolf, that old scoundrel. He's sent you to the right place, then. What sort of armor are you looking for?"

Relieved, Liam began to discuss his requirements for light, flexible armor with Zelkor. The lizard-kin's annoyance had melted away, replaced by a genuine interest in helping Liam find the perfect armor for his needs.

Zelkor guided Liam around the shop, showcasing various pieces of leather armor. He picked up the first piece, a smooth, supple harness.

"This one here is made from the hide of a Swiftfoot Deer. It's lightweight and allows for great mobility. The leather is enchanted to increase your speed and agility. The best protection is not getting hit afterall," Zelkor explained. "This one will cost you 20 silver coins."

He then grabbed a second piece, which was slightly thicker than the first. "This one's from a Steelhide Boar. It's still very light but offers some protection. The boar's natural resilience has been imbued into the armor, making it tougher and more resistant to damage. This one is priced at 35 silver coins."

Zelkor moved on to the third option, a cuirass adorned with intricate patterns. "Now, this beauty is made from the skin of a Silvermane Wolf. It's known for its balance between weight and protection. The enchantment imbued in this armor grants the wearer heightened senses and improved reaction time. This piece will cost you 1 gold coins and 50 silver."

Finally, he showed Liam the last piece, an exotic-looking cuirass with shimmering scales. "This one is a bit of a rarity – made from the hide of a Glintscale Serpent. It's incredibly light, and the scales provide added protection. The enchantment on this armor allows the wearer to blend into their surroundings, making it perfect for stealthy endeavors. This one is quite expensive, though – it'll set you back 12 gold coins."

Liam carefully considered each option and their respective prices as Zelkor explained their properties. He knew that choosing the right armor would be essential for his future as a courier, especially with the dangers that came with his newfound abilities.

Focusing for a moment to find the feeling from last night, Liam directed energy to his eyes.

Swiftfoot Deer Harness

This set of leather straps will improve the wearers agility but offer little in the way of protection.

Steelhide Boar Jacket

A sturdy jacket made from the skin of a steelhide boar. This jacket will protect weak slashing and crushing attacks.

Silvermane Wolf Curiass

A hard leather armor lined on the outside with the fur from a Silvermane wolf. This will enhance the wearers reaction time while providing plenty of warmth.

Glintscale Serpent Breastplate

A masterfully made piece of armor balanced for protection and stealth

“What in the blazes is that light coming from your eye boy?” Zelkor asked, his voice filled with confusion.

“Oh! I discovered my spirit lets me examine things in detail if I focus in the right way” Liam quickly replied.

“Hmm, a type of knowledge spirit is it? Rare. But usually, the information would be imprinted onto something after a ritual. What an interesting ability.” The lizards skin scrunched up in thought.

“I have a needle spirit myself, not much use for fighting but lets me create the finest leather armor in the city” he continues with pride.

After much consideration, Liam decided to purchase the second option. The Steelhide Boar armor seemed like the most sensible choice, offering him enhanced protection without depleting his limited funds. He could use the money Hrothgar had given him, combined with his savings from the last two days of work, to afford the armor, leaving a little left over for other necessities.

Zelkor carefully took the Steelhide Boar Jacket from the rack and placed it on the counter, his nimble reptilian fingers quickly and expertly adjusting the leather straps and buckles. His keen, slit-pupiled eyes assessed Liam's stature as he worked on the armor.

"It is crucial that your armor fits you well, Liam," Zelkor explained as he continued adjusting the jacket. "If it is too tight, it will restrict your movements and make it difficult for you to react quickly in a dangerous situation. On the other hand, if it's too loose, it may not protect you adequately, and it could even hinder you by catching on something or shifting out of place."

As the lizard-man spoke, he deftly measured the distance between the buckles, the length of the straps, and the width of the chest plate, all the while explaining the significance of each aspect to Liam.

"You see, this jacket has multiple layers of reinforced leather from the hide of the steelhide boar, which provides excellent protection against both slashing and blunt force," Zelkor continued. "However, to ensure that it offers the optimal balance between protection and flexibility, it is imperative that it fits your body snugly without being uncomfortable."

Having made the necessary adjustments, Zelkor held the Steelhide Boar Jacket open for Liam to try on. Carefully, Liam slipped his arms through the sleeves and settled the armor onto his shoulders. The lizard-man assisted by fastening the buckles across Liam's chest and adjusting the leather straps along the sides and back.

Once the jacket was secure, Zelkor took a step back and scrutinized the fit. He instructed Liam to raise his arms, twist his torso, and move in various ways to ensure the armor didn't inhibit his movements. Satisfied with his work, Zelkor nodded in approval.

"Remember, Liam, well-fitted armor can mean the difference between life and death in a dangerous situation," Zelkor reiterated. "With the Steelhide Boar Jacket tailored to your form, you'll be protected without compromising your agility."

As Liam admired his new armor, he couldn't help but steal glances at Zelkor. The lizard-man caught his gaze, a knowing smile forming on his reptilian face.

The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

"I see you are curious about my kind," Zelkor said, his voice gentle. "Fear not, I am not offended. It is true, I am a beast-kin, specifically a lizard-folk. Sadly, our kind is often misunderstood and discriminated against by others."

Liam shifted uncomfortably, realizing he had been caught staring. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be rude. I've just never seen anyone like you before."

Zelkor waved a scaled hand dismissively. "No offense taken, young human. We lizard-folk are often feared because of our reputation for crafting potent poisons and our skill in assassination. However, these are only the paths that some of our kind choose to walk. Others, like myself, have chosen a different path—one of artistry and craftsmanship."

The lizard-man gestured at the beautiful leather armor surrounding them. "This is my true passion, not the darker arts of my people. I believe that there is more to us than the shadows we have been cast in by others."

Liam listened intently, humbled by Zelkor's openness and his determination to defy stereotypes. He nodded in understanding, a newfound respect for the lizard-man taking root in his heart.

"Thank you for sharing your story, Zelkor," Liam said sincerely.

As he left the shop wearing his new armor, Liam felt a sense of pride and confidence. He knew that he was investing in his own safety, which would serve him well as he continued his life as a courier in this magical and sometimes dangerous world.

Liam made his way back to The Slumbering Drake, the golden rays of the setting sun bathed the cobblestone streets in a warm, honeyed light. The city bustled with a rich array of people and magical creatures, each one radiating their unique talents and abilities. The air seemed alive with an electrifying excitement and a touch of mystery that hung just out of reach.

To his left, Liam caught sight of a group of children giggling as they played with a small, shimmering spirit that appeared to be made of pure energy. It danced and twirled among them, transforming its appearance from one element to another in a mesmerizing display of lights and colors. The children's eyes sparkled with wonder as they watched, their laughter echoing throughout the street.

Across the way, a pair of stately centaurs pulled a heavily laden cart, their muscular equine bodies moving with a powerful grace. Their hooves struck the cobblestones in a rhythmic beat as they exchanged pleasantries with those they passed, their upper bodies poised with a regal air.

A little further on, Liam spotted a group of scholars engrossed in an animated discussion. The gathering consisted of humans, elves, and other races, each with their own unique magical powers that seemed to hum around them like an ever-present symphony. As they passionately debated their points, a brilliant display of sparks and energy danced through the air around them.

In the distance, a figure cloaked in dark, flowing robes hovered a few inches above the ground, seemingly untouched by the earth below. A gentle, otherworldly light emanated from within the cloak, casting an enchanting glow onto the cobblestones. People paused in their tracks to catch a glimpse, their expressions ranging from awe to unease as the figure continued on its mysterious journey.

At last, Liam found himself before the welcoming entrance of The Slumbering Drake, its quaint sign swaying softly in the evening breeze. The inviting glow of lanterns flickered from the windows, drawing him inside. As he pushed open the door, the lively sounds of laughter, conversation, and clinking glassware enveloped him, and he felt a strong sense of camaraderie and purpose fill his heart.

The world outside was a captivating tapestry of magical creatures and people, each with their own stories and struggles to overcome. Now that he had discovered his own abilities, Liam felt more prepared than ever to find his place among them and make a difference in the enchanting world that surrounded him.

Liam returned to The Slumbering Drake after his visit to Zelkor's shop, wearing his newly adjusted Steelhide Boar Jacket. The inn was bustling with activity, filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses. Magical creatures and people with various abilities mingled in the lively atmosphere, creating a fascinating and colorful scene.

Rolf, the innkeeper, caught sight of Liam as he entered and waved him over to the bar. "Ah, Liam! I see you found yourself some armor," he said with a hearty chuckle. "Come, sit down and have an evening meal. You look like you could use a bite to eat and a good pint of beer."

Liam gratefully accepted the invitation, sliding onto a barstool next to Rolf. The innkeeper brought over a steaming plate of roasted chicken, seasoned vegetables, and a crusty loaf of bread, as well as a frothy pint of beer.

As Liam dug into his meal, Rolf studied his new armor with interest. "Zelkor did a fine job with your Steelhide Boar Jacket. It suits you well, lad," he remarked, raising his own glass in a toast. "May it protect you on all your future adventures."

Liam returned the toast with a smile, feeling more secure and confident with his new armor. Between bites of food, he engaged in conversation with Rolf, learning more about the innkeeper's experiences and how he managed The Slumbering Drake.

"Well, you see, it's all about being adaptable," Rolf explained, wiping down the bar with a clean cloth. "The magical world is ever-changing, and so too are the needs of our guests. I strive to create an environment where all are welcome, regardless of their abilities or origins."

Liam nodded, listening intently as he sipped his beer. The camaraderie he felt with Rolf and the warmth of The Slumbering Drake made him feel at home in this magical city, a sensation he had been yearning for since his days as an outcast. As the evening wore on, the lively conversations, the clinking of glasses, and the laughter of patrons filled the air, creating a memorable and magical atmosphere that Liam would cherish for a long time.

Slowly, the shadows of his past receded, replaced by a vibrant and hopeful present. As Liam embraced the opportunities and experiences that lay before him, he discovered that his painful history did not have to define him. Instead, it had shaped him into a resilient and compassionate young man, ready to face the challenges and delights of his new life in this magical world.

Liam lay down in his comfortable bed at The Slumbering Drake, the room dimly lit by the soft glow of moonlight filtering through the window. As he closed his eyes, thoughts of his father filled his mind. He hadn't allowed himself to dwell on the memory of his father for quite some time, but now, with a sense of safety and stability surrounding him, the memories began to surface once more.

He recalled the terrible day when he had learned of his father's death. The shock and pain had been overwhelming, leaving him feeling lost and alone. The weight of that loss had cast a long shadow over his life, one that he had only recently begun to move beyond.

But as Liam's thoughts lingered on that fateful day, a nagging suspicion began to form in the back of his mind. There had been something not quite right about the way his father had died. He was a master at warfare, always deployed on the backlines, controlling storms to blast the enemy. It did not make sense that his father had died if the kingdom had not lost a battle.

With his newfound abilities and growing self-confidence, Liam felt an urge to delve deeper into the mystery surrounding his father's death. Though it was painful to confront, he couldn't shake the feeling that there was a hidden truth waiting to be uncovered. With his newfound abilities and growing self-confidence, Liam felt an urge to delve deeper into the mystery surrounding his father's death. Though it was painful to confront, he couldn't shake the feeling that there was a hidden truth waiting to be uncovered.

He takes a moment to look inward, the blue glow of his status lights up his room.

Name

Liam Terlock

Body

5

Energy

17/19

Spirit

Light(Foundling stage)

Condition

Healthy

After focusing on the body stat it splits before his eyes. It seems to be a factor of the sub categories.

Strength

4

Agility

6

Stamina

5

Liam was torn from his thoughts by a sudden knock on his door. Uneasy, he sat up in bed and called out, "Who is it?"

"It's Rolf," came the hushed reply. "May I come in? I have a favor to ask of you."

Cautious, Liam quickly got out of bed, opened the door, and gestured for Rolf to enter. The innkeeper stepped inside, his face grave. Liam couldn't help but notice the urgency in Rolf's eyes.

"What can I do for you, Rolf?" Liam asked, concern furrowing his brow.

Rolf took a deep breath before speaking. "I've just received word that one of my regular customers is in need of some assistance. She's an elderly woman who lives on the outskirts of the city, and she's recently taken ill. She has no family nearby, and I'm worried about her. I was wondering if you could help me deliver some food and medicine to her? I'd do it myself, but I can't leave the inn unattended at this time of night."

Liam hesitated for only a moment, then nodded decisively. "Of course, Rolf. I'd be happy to help. Just let me get dressed and I'll be ready to go."

Rolf laid a hand on his shoulder, his eyes filled with gratitude, but also concern. "Thank you, Liam. I knew I could count on you. Just be careful out there; the city isn't always safe at night."

As Liam hastily pulled on his clothes and prepared to venture out into the darkness, he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Here, in this city filled with magic and mystery, he was finally finding a purpose and a sense of belonging. But he knew that this world had its shadows, and he couldn't help but wonder what dangers might be lurking just beyond the corner.