Chuck slept until almost noon. He woke up and realized he was filthy and also starving. Luckily he didn’t have any nightmares about bugs. Chuck washed up as best he could. He would kill for a hot shower. There was a cheap plastic razor in the glovebox that he would have to grab later. Mirrors seemed to be rare in this world but there were still a couple unbroken ones on his pickup. Mer had left him a clean tunic that kind of fit. He left his dirty clothes behind. It felt weird wearing a tunic but when in Rome as they say. Chuck made his way to the dining hall, hoping he wasn’t too late to eat. The meal was stew again but his empty stomach didn’t mind. After he ate he was summoned to the guild master’s office.
Since Chuck was staying there, the guild master was required to get his statement about what happened during the rescue mission. It sounded like the guard captain would be interviewing Torj and Kyt. Chuck went over everything he could remember. Nox was taking notes while Alz asked questions. When Chuck was finished, Alz told him the governor wanted to see him the following day. After that he asked to see his truck. Chuck didn’t exactly trust the guild. With the broken window, it wouldn’t do any good locking it. The toolbox did have a lock but he had been so tired he hadn’t thought about putting his guns and other items in it. Nox led him there and Chuck was relieved to see everything how he left it. He dug around behind the seat and fished out the empty plastic bottles. As promised, he handed them over to Nox who was very appreciative.
Chuck reorganized the toolbox and managed to fit everything in and lock it. Nox asked him several questions while he was working. It sounded like Nox would have some of the apprentices wash the pickup, which was fine by Chuck. He really wasn’t looking forward to doing it, especially not without a pressure washer. Chuck also managed to shave while he was at it. With his mind at ease, he decided to return to his room. When he got back he was surprised to find that his dirty clothes had been cleaned. He would have to thank Mer later. He kind of wanted to go out and explore the city but it was getting late so he just ate and went to bed early.
This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
That night he did have nightmares about the bugs. They were attacking his family and he couldn’t do anything about it. Chuck woke up in a cold sweat, breathing heavily. He started crying silently. He was definitely homesick and hoped his family and friends were doing ok. They were probably still looking for him since he vanished into another world, presumably without a trace. It might help if there was a friendly face around but there were none. They all just looked too inhuman. It was still early but he knew he couldn’t go back to sleep again. Chuck decided to do a few exercises in his room instead. After exercising he washed himself off using the basins and a cloth.
He ate breakfast and then it was time to go see the governor. A carriage was sent again but this time the guild master wouldn’t be attending. Chuck didn’t bother wearing his poncho and had on his normal clothes. The city folk would just have to get used to him. He arrived at the mansion and was escorted to the same waiting room. It didn’t take long before he was summoned to see the governor. Feli was behind the desk again in the big office but this time Fol was there as well. “Welcome back otherworlder. I have heard about your exploits and it seems my faith in you was well placed.” Feli said standing up and indicating for Chuck to sit down in one of the chairs. Fol greeted him as well. It looked like Fol had been completely healed and was now able to use his arm. They all sat down and the governor got down to business. He told Chuck about the banquet which would be held in two weeks. Chuck, Torj, and Kyt would be the guests of honor. Chuck would be shown to his new house so he didn’t have to stay at the guild anymore. He would also be able to keep the governor’s seal. Finally, he would be given a monthly stipend that he may do with what he wished. Chuck was overwhelmed. “Wow, thanks.” Was all he could manage as he smiled stupidly.