Entering through the massive gates, I stepped into the City of Enchantments, leaving behind the wary guards. The city was a kaleidoscope of colors, with buildings adorned with mysterious symbols and shimmering signs announcing magical shops and workshops. The inhabitants of the city, magical beings and wizards, went about their business, some floating in the air, others casting spells or discussing ancient grimoires.

I was immediately struck by the atmosphere that pervaded the streets. The residents and merchants cast suspicious glances in my direction, whispering words like "goblin," "intruder," and even "monster" among themselves. Despite this, I refused to be discouraged. I had a mission to accomplish, and I needed to find a way to gain their trust.

As I strolled through the alleys of the city, a sparkling jewelry shop caught my attention. The displays were filled with necklaces, rings, bracelets, and other adornments, all adorned with shimmering gemstones. With a glimmer of hope, I crossed the threshold of the shop. The doorbell tinkled lightly, drawing the attention of an elegant woman behind the counter. She had silver hair and wore a sparkling dress that matched the jewelry she displayed.

"Good day, madam," I began in a polite voice. "I am Riko, and I am here to protect the City of Enchantments. I am seeking information about the threat looming over our kingdom. Can you help me?"

The saleswoman looked me up and down disdainfully, then sighed in exasperation. She grabbed a nearby broom and began vigorously shooing me away.

"Get out of here, wretched goblin! We have no need for your kind here!" she exclaimed, waving her broom in my direction.

Surprised and hurt by her violent reaction, I hastily retreated, making my way towards the exit. The other customers in the shop watched the scene with amusement, some laughing or whispering among themselves. I left the shop, feeling disappointed and humiliated.

After this, I approached a stall of herbs and potions, where an old alchemist stood mixing colorful ingredients in a smoking cauldron. I hoped he would be more open to conversation than the other inhabitants of the city.

"Good day, alchemist," I said in a respectful voice as I approached him. "I am Riko, and I am here to protect the City of Enchantments. I am seeking information about the threat hanging over this kingdom. Could you help me?"

The alchemist looked up from his cauldron and scrutinized me warily. His wrinkled eyes seemed to scour every inch of my being, searching for signs of danger. After a moment of silence, he replied in a raspy voice, "I do not know what you hope to find here, goblin. The City of Enchantments has no need for your help."

Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

I was taken aback by his abrupt response, but I remained calm and persevering. I knew I had to find a way to prove my worth and sincere desire to protect the city.

"I understand your mistrust, sir, but I am determined to help. I studied the arts of alchemy under an dryad friend, Ermin. I can demonstrate my knowledge if you wish," I humbly offered.

The alchemist squinted, clearly surprised by my words. He approached me, carefully examining my face. "Ermin, you say? The dryad Ermin?"

I nodded with a slight smile. "Yes, that's him. He taught me the basics of alchemy and shared his knowledge with me. I can tell you about different herbs and potions, their properties, and their uses."

The alchemist still seemed hesitant, but his curiosity finally got the better of him. "Very well, goblin. Show me what you know."

With enthusiasm, I began to talk to him about different plants, their benefits, and possible combinations to create potions. I described the procedures of distillation, maceration, and infusion, and shared anecdotes about my personal experiences with alchemy. Gradually, the alchemist's attitude began to change. His eyes lit up with interest and amazement at my in-depth knowledge.

"Fascinating... You possess truly impressive knowledge in this field," he exclaimed finally. "I have never met a goblin so well-versed in alchemy. It's remarkable."

A smile of satisfaction illuminated my face. I had managed to pique the alchemist's interest and earn a semblance of respect. I knew it would not be enough to change the opinion of the city's inhabitants, but it was a step in the right direction.

"Allow me to give you some advice, Riko," the alchemist said kindly. "If you want to gain the trust of the residents of the City of Enchantments, you must prove your worth through your actions. Show them that you are here to help, that you are willing to sacrifice for their well-being. Then, perhaps, with time, their mistrust will transform into gratitude."

I thanked the alchemist for his wise words and valuable advice. But as I prepared to leave the alchemist's stall, he held onto my arm. His expression had changed, shifting from mistrust to a certain form of respect.

"I am Azarus, an elder of the City of Enchantments," he declared solemnly. "If you are truly determined to help, I suggest you make your way to the Tower of Sorcery. There, you will find Frida, a wise and powerful sorceress. She possesses extensive knowledge of the growing threat looming over our kingdom."

He paused, fixing me with his piercing eyes. "Frida will be able to provide you with crucial information and perhaps even guide you on your quest. Be cautious, Riko. The road ahead will be filled with obstacles, but if you prove yourself trustworthy, the city will recognize you."

I took note of his words with gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Azarus. I will make my way to the Tower of Sorcery and seek out Frida. I hope to find the answers I need to protect the City of Enchantments."

I bid farewell to the alchemist and set off towards the mysterious Tower of Sorcery. I was driven by the conviction that my presence could make a difference and protect the Enchantment Kingdom from the approaching threat. The Tower of Sorcery stood before me, glorious and mysterious. I approached its doors, ready to face the trials that awaited me within.

to be continued...