An uncanny sensation jarred me from my slumber, pulling me from the depths of a deep, peaceful sleep to the apex of alertness within the space of a heartbeat. It was as if an internal alarm had blared, yanking me into wakefulness with a startling immediacy. This wasn’t the usual groggy emergence from sleep, but a sudden plunge into full consciousness that left me disoriented, if only momentarily.
The first night in unfamiliar surroundings was normally a fitful one, filled with restless sleep and half-awake vigilance. That was the ‘first night effect’ – a survival instinct, keeping part of our brain alert to potential danger. Yet here, in this world that couldn’t be more foreign, I had slipped into a tranquil and undisturbed sleep. The contrast was startling, and it left me with a lingering disquiet.
For a moment, I sat on the edge of the bed, scrutinizing the room, my eyes darting over every nook and corner, assuring my mind there was nothing amiss. Nothing seemed out of place, the early morning light painting the familiar hues of the modest room. With a sigh, I pushed myself off the bed, stretching to loosen my tense muscles - a gesture that was more about reassuring my mind than my body.
As my consciousness processed the stillness of my surroundings, the adrenaline gradually ebbed away, my mind gradually accepting the reality of safety. Despite the initial jolt of anxiety, I had indeed awoken in a secure environment. It was a bizarre start to my second day in this foreign world - a reminder, perhaps, that here, even the mundane could be turned on its head.
I ambled towards the room’s lone window. The wooden shutter creaked slightly as I pushed it open, unveiling the vibrant morning scene beyond. The rising sun painted the horizon in a melange of warm hues, its rays beginning to pierce the lingering morning chill. The town was slowly coming to life, a scene pulled straight from a tale of yore.
As I took a deep breath, the crisp morning air rushed into my lungs. It was invigorating, almost cleansing, mingling the earthy scent of dew-laden foliage with the faint, pleasant undertones of wood smoke from the town’s hearths. This was an air untouched by modern pollution - pure, refreshing, and rich with life.
The serene view, coupled with the sweet freshness of the morning air, acted like a natural incense, soothing my nerves and awakening my senses. It was as if the world was whispering an invitation to start anew, promising adventure and surprise at each new turn.
Involuntarily, a smile tugged at the corners of my mouth, the taste of the air and the caress of the warm light against the cold morning atmosphere was an energizing balm. It was a charming welcome to the day, dispelling the vestiges of my early-morning anxiety. A surge of anticipation coursed through me. My second day in this fascinating world was just beginning.
Evidently, I was still accustomed to my sleep schedule from back on Earth. I had loosely intended on waking up just before sunrise but if I was to guess it was actually around eight in the morning. Regardless, I made it down to the Inn’s first floor expecting to be greeted by a lively atmosphere and warm breakfast. What I instead found, was a lack of either.
Well, I suppose breakfast wasn’t a thing in medieval Earth either, was it? If people had spare bread or vegetables they might eat a few of those- just a light snack to get the day started. One might assume they kept leftovers from the night’s supper on a fire, and ate that in the morning. However, back in those days, if they did have leftovers and the means to preserve them for long periods of time, it made more sense to save them for that day’s supper.
In addition to that, preserving food was only really possible in winter. So every morning the wives and kids would go into the market to procure the ingredients for that day’s meals. Bottom line, breakfast was non-existent. Well, Pippin would certainly be disappointed.
“Oh, checking out for the day? I would be happy to hold your room for another day but I must advise you take any personal belongings with you. We cannot guarantee the security of unattended items.”
The robust innkeeper with the familiar wide grin brought me out of my internal musings.
“Ah, yes. I would appreciate that. Fortunately, all of my belongings are what is currently on my person, so no need to worry there.”
“Yeah, you adventurer’s do travel light. Well, I’ll have to ask for an earnest of eight copper drakes to reserve the room. The rest will be paid when you arrive. Also, keep in mind, the cut-off is nightfall. If your room is the only one left and I have a paying customer and you’re nowhere in sight, all bets are off.”
The price seemed reasonable for a day’s reservation, and it provided a valuable insight into the economy of this world. I nodded as I placed eight copper coins on the counter.
“Great! See you tonight then!” The innkeeper replied heartily.
After leaving the inn, I figured my best course was to return to the A.S.A. I still had to make sure my paperwork was finalized and take on a quest or two for today. One step at a time. I reminded myself, pushing any intrusive thoughts to the back of my mind and set my focus on planning out my day.
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Upon my arrival at the Aegis Society, I was greeted by the ever-kind woman at the reception desk.
“Ah, there you are. Getting a late start today?” She teased lightly, a hint of concern shadowing her warm expression. “I was beginning to wonder if your wound was more severe than I thought.”
“Oh, no, ma’am. I must have been more worn out than I thought. I slept like a rock,” I replied with a shrug as I approached her. “I am truly grateful for your care. I likely would have just wrapped a bandage around the wound and called it good.”
She chuckled lightly. “What’s with the formalities? Only nobility speaks like that. Well, it was no trouble. Now, given the state of things, we are a little short-handed. As such, I would like to get you on assignment as quickly as possible.”She pushed a piece of parchment towards me with a pen. “This is all that’s left for paperwork. You simply have to sign your name into our registry.”
A simple task indeed. It reminded me of the training rosters from my job on Earth. Everyone would sign a piece of paper at the beginning of the day so the instructors could verify who was present. Out of pure habit, and lack of a better option, I signed my name, ‘Ethan Drake’.
“Earlier you mentioned the state of things,” I began. “All I have been told of the situation here is that you requested more adventurers due to an increase in monsters. Is there perhaps more to it?”
With that inquiry, I felt like I was really playing the part of an adventurer protagonist. But I quickly pushed my geek thoughts aside; the expression on Matilda’s face suggested this may be a heavier situation than a few extra monsters.
Matilda’s expression turned grave, her eyes reflecting the weight of her words. “We’ve noticed unusual activity in the monster population around the town. They’re behaving in an almost organized manner and there’s been a noticeable increase in their numbers. It’s as if they’re focusing on the town. We’re preparing for the worst - fortifying defenses, thinning out the monster population, and gathering capable fighters in case of an attack. Every adventurer counts.”
Her words hung heavy in the air, a sobering reminder of the dangers this world held. Despite the peaceful facade, there were always shadows lurking in the corners, ready to strike when least expected.
“I see. That sounds quite dire. I take it this kind of behaviour is uncommon among monsters?” I inquired further.
“Hm,” she hummed as she observed me for a moment. “Forgive me for saying, but your knowledge seems… unbalanced. You are clearly educated but you seem to lack basic worldly knowledge. Oh dear, how rude of me. Please ignore this old lady’s musings. To answer your question, it is quite uncommon. I have never seen monsters act like this. It’s almost as if they are organized. Following orders even. Right now, we are just trying to prevent the worst-case scenario.”
A cold sweat trickled down my neck. My experience with games and books was warning me that this monster behavior was a major red flag. But I didn’t let that stop me from considering the situation seriously. Monsters here seemed to have some level of intelligence, so it wasn’t inconceivable that they would organize to protect themselves against the human element.
“Well anyway,” she continued, drawing out a parchment from a neatly stacked pile on her desk, “I think this quest would be suitable for you. It’s a task to recover a precious gem stolen by a rogue goblin. It’s believed to be hiding in the caves to the north. It’s a low-level quest, but it will be a challenge for a beginner. Plus, it will get you familiar with the local terrain.”
I furrowed my brow as I looked at the quest. “A rogue goblin...?” I met Matilda’s gaze as I inquired further. “Can you tell me more about this? How did it manage to steal a precious gem? Did it sneak into the town or did it intercept a transport on the road? And how many goblins are we talking about in these caves?”
Matilda leaned back in her chair, a thoughtful look in her eyes. “Ah, rogue goblins. They’re a tricky bunch, unpredictable and clever in their own way. This one managed to sneak into a traveling merchant’s cart on the road and made off with the gem. As for numbers, it’s hard to tell. The caves to the north are known to house goblins, but they usually stick to their own territories. This rogue could be alone, or it could have allies.”
You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.
My mind turned with the information. Goblins were common low level mobs in games and novels. Facing one in real life, however, was an entirely different challenge.
“And where exactly are these caves?”
She unrolled a map from one of the desk drawers, pointing to an area slightly north of our current location.
“The caves are scattered throughout this region here, but we believe the rogue is hiding in this cluster. It’s a day’s journey on foot.”Matilda then turned her gaze to my current gear. “Your equipment looks to be of high quality, but you seem to be traveling rather light, dear boy. Before you venture off, I would suggest gathering some basic supplies from the town’s market. Things like food, water, a small cooking pot, a bedroll, a map, torches... It’s always wise to be prepared for the unexpected. And perhaps get yourself a sturdy backpack. You can’t very well travel with good quality armor and a sword as your only equipment.”
I glanced down at my current gear and had to agree. In the games, you just came across what you needed as you progressed through the quest, but it was clear that this world had different rules.
“You may also want to look into purchasing some healing potions, antidotes, or even basic herbs. In a bind, they can make all the difference,” Matilda added as an afterthought. “And remember, it’s better to have something and not need it, than to need something and not have it.”
Her advice was a wake-up call. So far, I had been focused on making money to survive, but I hadn’t fully considered what necessities adventuring required. If I were to get careless or venture into a situation under-prepared, there was no way the outcome would be positive.
I thanked Matilda for all of her assistance and promised to make the proper preparations. After a final exchange of words, I set off to do some shopping. I had a lot to learn about this new world, and a rogue goblin was just the beginning.
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I shouldered my newly purchased bag, stepping beyond the town’s edge and onto the path leading north. In the distance, the foreboding silhouette of the mountain range loomed, a stark reminder of my first quest’s destination.
Glancing down at the small pouch in my hand, I took a moment to count my remaining coins - a meager mix of copper and silver. It was striking how quickly one’s finances dwindled in this world, each coin precious and all too easily spent.
”On Earth, daily expenses were just a background noise,” I muttered, rolling a silver coin between my fingers. The reality of each cost in this world was much more immediate and pressing: food, accommodation, gear, information, potions... it all piled up at an alarming rate.
”Do adventurers really scrape by on this?” The question escaped my lips, carrying the echo of my doubts on the wind. I glanced sideways at my bag, bulging with the basic necessities I had recently acquired: food, a small cooking pot, a bedroll, torches, and a few potions. A beginner’s arsenal. I had tried my hand at haggling, but it was clear I would need to improve on that front.
Shaking my head, I pushed back the rising tide of anxiety. This wasn’t a game, nor was it the predictable life I had known on Earth. Here, each day was a roll of the dice, filled with danger and excitement. There was a rush to it, a spark of life that made the unknown seem less daunting and more... enticing. The adventurer’s life held an allure that I was starting to appreciate.
My thoughts shifted back to the map, a crude sketch Brom had given me. It was simplistic in comparison to the intricate maps I’d seen at the market, but those carried a hefty price tag. As the saying went, beggars can’t be choosers. My humble map would have to suffice for now.
This was my life now. As much as the unfamiliar challenges were nerve-racking, they were also thrilling. I was ready to take on whatever this world threw at me. I would become that frugal, bargaining adventurer if I had to. I’d make the most of every opportunity and learn to survive in this brave new world.
With renewed determination, I straightened my posture. Dwelling on my financial troubles wouldn’t get me anywhere. Instead, I needed to focus on the task at hand. It was time to step into my role as an adventurer.
”Alright!” I declared to the open path ahead, my voice mingling with the rustle of leaves and distant birdcalls. “Time’s wasting, and I’ve got a rogue goblin to find.” With that, I marched forward, eager to face whatever lay ahead on my journey.
Several uneventful hours later, a thought occurred to me. I should have returned to the inn and cancelled my reservation. Seems how my destination was roughly a days journey away. Oh well. If I turned back now I’d loose several hours of daylight. Guess I’ll just have to be more careful in the future.
Strolling down the forested path, the afternoon light danced in mottled patterns on the leaf-littered ground. The woodland chorus had settled into a soothing hum until a sharp yelp sliced through the tranquil soundscape, causing my heart to hitch.
With a sense of trepidation, I detoured from the beaten path, my hand instinctively brushing against the hilt of my sword. My pulse thrummed in my ears as I carefully navigated the dense underbrush, my eyes widening as I stumbled upon a spectacle.
A creature the likes of which I’d never seen, was ensnared in a hunter’s trap. It was petite, akin to a miniature fox, but there was an ethereal quality about it. Its fur, fluffy and cloud-like, reflected the dying embers of the sunset, shimmering and shifting in colors. It had tiny, angel-like wings and eyes that sparkled like distant stars, twitched in distress. But what curdled my blood was the menacing monsters closing in, their predatory eyes gleaming hungrily.
My decision was immediate. Gripping my sword, I lunged forward, placing myself between the ensnared creature and a pack of monstrous wolves. Unlike the wolves of old fables, these beasts had scales that glittered under the fading sunlight, replacing the expected fur. Their eyes glowed ominously, a deep crimson that reflected their predatory intent.
Their size was that of regular wolves, yet the aura they exuded was anything but normal. The alpha, distinguishable by its unusually dark scales and larger build, snapped its jaws at me, a threatening growl resonating deep in its chest.
The wolves moved as one, coordinating their attacks with terrifying precision. I parried the alpha’s lunging bite, the metallic clash of my sword against its scales echoing in the quiet forest. The other wolves circled, their glowing eyes fixed on me, waiting for an opening.
I danced with death, my every move a balance of attack and defense. I dodged lunges, parried bites, and struck back whenever I found an opening. The wolves were fast, their attacks relentless, yet I managed to keep them at bay, using my agility to my advantage.
The alpha, however, was a different beast. Its attacks were more calculated, its movements more agile. We locked eyes, the wolf’s gaze radiating a deadly intent. But I was not one to back down. My grip on my sword tightened, preparing for the inevitable confrontation.
The ensuing clash was a flurry of movement. The alpha’s jaws snapped near my face, my sword barely warding off its attacks. Its fellow pack members lunged as well, yet they could not break my defense. Every dodge, every parry, every counterstrike, I executed with determination, pushing back against their assault.
The wolves soon began to falter. Their relentless onslaught waned, their coordination broke. A particularly fierce parry sent the alpha reeling, a yelp escaping its maw as it skidded on the leaf-littered ground.
That was the turning point. Sensing their alpha’s falter, the other wolves hesitated. I seized the opportunity, letting out a roar as I brandished my sword threateningly. The wolves took a step back, their eyes flickering between me and their wounded leader.
With a final wary glance, the wolves retreated, disappearing into the underbrush. I was left standing, panting with exertion, but exhilarated by the victory. The forest once again settled into a tranquil hum, the only evidence of the skirmish being the disturbed foliage and the rapid beat of my heart.
“Well,” I said out loud. “That was intense.”
With shaky hands, I turned to the trapped creature. Its bright, fearful eyes met mine as I gently disassembled the trap. Its joy was tangible as it bounced around, finally free.
I expected it to vanish into the woods, yet as I headed back to the path, it padded behind me. Intrigued, I stopped and turned, the question on my lips, “Are you wanting to be my companion?”
Its response was an energetic frolic around me, its jubilant energy warming my heart. “Well, I could use the company,” I admitted, the corners of my mouth tugging upwards into a smile. Its reaction was instant, nudging me affectionately, accepting my offer.
“Now, for a name…”
As we walked, my eyes studied my new companion. Its cloud-like fur, delicate wings, and the ethereal glow it possessed. Cloud? No that doesn’t quite fit. What are those wispy clouds called again? I thought as I looked up at the cloudless sky, trying to recall the name.
“Cirrus! How about Cirrus?” I asked, looking at the creature.
Its head whipped up, sparkling eyes meeting mine, an excited trill escaping its throat. It was a sound akin to the soft melody of a flute, both melodious and endearing.
“Then Cirrus it is.” I confirmed with a satisfied nod.
I once again gazed through the overhanging branches into the cloudless sky. It’s tint was growing more orange by the second.
“We should probably look for a place to set up camp.”
With the decision made, we progressed a little farther until we came across a small clearing just off the path. It was relatively flat, close to the road yet wouldn’t be easy to spot at night, and had lots of loose resources lying around like sticks and rocks. I figured it was probably about as safe and secure as we would get for the night.
In the dying light, I began to set up camp. I unpacked the canvas sheet I had managed to acquire from my morning market run. With some trial and error and more than a few muttered curses, I managed to arrange it into a passable shelter, propped up with some sturdy branches I collected from around the clearing.
Next was the fire pit. I cleared a small patch of land and surrounded it with rocks, ensuring the fire would remain contained. I collected an assortment of twigs and dry leaves, placing them in the pit and striking my flint until the sparks gave life to a small, but steadily growing fire.
With the fire humming nicely, I rummaged through my pack, retrieving my small iron pot and the provisions I had purchased - a package of cured meat, some hardy root vegetables, and a handful of herbs. My idea? A simple stew. The reality? Well...
Chopping up the ingredients with my dagger and tossing them into the pot, I filled it with water and set it on the fire, hoping for the best. The aroma that filled the air was... less than appetizing. But food was food, and my stomach was growling.
As the stew simmered, I set up a small perimeter of rocks and sticks around the camp - not much, but it would provide some warning if anything decided to intrude in the night. Cirrus watched my movements with an attentive gaze, its soft trills and flute-like sounds a comforting backdrop to the sounds of the fire crackling and the night animals calling.
When the stew was as good as it was going to get, I ladled some into my wooden bowl, the concoction more closely resembling slightly flavored water with chunks floating in it than an actual meal. Regardless, I took a bite, grimacing slightly at the bland taste.
“Sorry, Cirrus,” I apologized, “My culinary skills leave much to be desired. But at least it’s edible... I think.”
Cirrus trilled in response, its eyes flicking between me and the stew. Slightly hesitantly, I offered Cirrus a piece of the meat, which it sniffed at before gobbling it down with what seemed to be approval.
As the night settled in, I finished my meal, washing it down with some water from my canteen. Despite the less than stellar dinner, I couldn’t help but smile. Here I was, a novice adventurer with a celestial-like companion, under a sky filled with stars, ready to take on whatever came our way. The stew might not have been gourmet, but the company sure was excellent.