Connor was in a strange state that went from giddy at being in another Haven, as a Pather this time, to being bone tired after a whole more complicated and dangerous journey than they had expected. Other points of frustration and worries were hovering in his mind, of course. But the prospect of a good meal, a real one, beds free of charge, and a place to rest for a few days was a welcome change.
They went back up the road wedged into the cliffside. Each one of them lost in their own musing. Connor felt for Takeo, of course. He himself would have to find himself a Soul Mentor, to help him make sense of his frivolous Spirit Guide. And he had absolutely no idea what Healing his own Soul Body would entail, at all. But it seemed to be a niche technique, and he wasn't sure anyone could help him figure that one out. Not that I know anything about it... Maybe it's as common as rock? Anyway, the little guy would soon be back on his feet. He had been surprised that that old geezer didn't cheat them out of their reward, he wasn't sure he'd been as honest in her position. But maybe that came with being a Village Leader, keeping promises, and all that must probably help keep the peace.
The day was drawing to a close, the sky was already beginning to turn orange. Like all kids of Sandford, he had been fascinated by the surface, the Sun, the very occasional clouds, or even the legendary rain. Being on the outside at Sandford, while it wasn't a death sentence if one wasn't well prepared and geared, it could prove to be a dire mistake. And here he was, prancing about. The village would soon be completely in the shadows of the nearby mountains, especially since it was located deep in a gorge between three high cliffs. The air was coolish, but not cold. The wind provided a very pleasant breeze that carried the smells of a forest.
People all around were happily going about their lives, talking, and laughing. He hadn't noticed how much he had missed that. He didn't peg himself as a socialite, but he had been raised in a village, and he had been used to the constant hum of people. Here most had a visible weapon on them, but only a few actually wore armored gears, besides the guards, of course. He had been surprised to spot even children running around, playing among the adults and Pathers. He idly wondered what it would have been like to grow up in this Haven.
As they climbed the levels, Takeo still on his stretcher, the population changed. There were now fewer workers, aged people, and more Pathers. The overall mood hadn't changed though, but it hadn't the same vibe. Takeo was also taking in the sights and pointed out this and that, making idle comments on clothing and activities. To him, everything seemed new and strange. Xander and him just had a glimpse of his world, but it had felt so alien to their own, that Connor could somewhat understand how that would feel. "What are those?" he had asked. "See, see, on his shoulder? And hers?"
Connor and Xander followed his finger and saw that indeed several people had jellified little things on their shoulders, barely the size of an apple, with a roundish shape. Looking around again, Connor spotted a dozen of those. Most were almost completely translucent, but some had little features, like jelly horns, stubby arms, or even a toothy mouth, all this with varying color. The little blob just sat on its owner's shoulder, happily burping around and making small bubbly noises.
"I don't know", replied honestly Xander. "We'll ask later. Let's get to the Inn first, I want a hot bath and a nap."
Takeo wooted and wholeheartedly agreed that it was more important. After that, Xander picked up pace. Most people barely paid them any attention, or if they did, it was only to enquire about Takeo's health. Connor was happy with his newfound Strength and endurance because they had been lifting the wheelbarrow/stretcher thing for the last hour or so, once getting down and then back up. He was beginning to feel sore, but they would soon be done with this part of their responsibility.
They finally reached the plaza. Pathers' stalls were in the process of being replaced by food and drink ones. Lanterns were being lit, and here and there a few people added some music to the village's cacophony. Takeo hummed along, happy as a clam. The "Only Inn in Town," as it was elegantly named had its wide red double doors open, allowing dozens of people in and out without trouble. Within the noise had increased to another level. People were reveling loudly, drinking at their recent victories, and others just sat somber, contemplating some dark thoughts, and a whole lot of people were just having an early meal or simply drinking away the evening.
The entire wall to the right of the entrance was occupied by an immense Job Board, where dozens of little sheets of paper had been pinned down, as well as wooden ones. A bunch of Pathers were pacing around, looking for their next job. Two clerks stood beside it, in booths, before a queue of Pathers that were waiting patiently. A few Guards were also in there, ensuring the peace was kept. To the left, was the tavern part of the Inn, there were still empty tables, but from the look of it, in an hour or two, it wouldn't be the case anymore. In front of the entrance, a bit toward the tables, was a large bar, along with a wide Conciergerie, where seemingly a thousand numbered little pigeonholes waited. There were a few people behind the desk and the bar, but one stood aside. A tall man, probably two meters high, and maybe one and a half wide, bald, wore only a simple white shirt that let everyone see dozens if not hundreds of pinkish scars. The shirt named him Bob, and if they could believe the Elder, he was the proprietor of this establishment. Despite his wide build and battered warrior outlook, the man seemed amenable enough, serving a drink there, exchanging a few words there. His face stayed somewhat neutral, but he was clearly there, present and intent on whatever he did, caring for his customers. Besides the Conciergerie, an opening in the all granted access to a very large elevator, that most certainly was able to carry up and down more than a dozen people at the same time. It was a simple setup, wide platforms were perpetually lifted up and down. They could even see, behind, in the darkness that had found a home there, a mighty waterfall that probably powered the whole setup.
People thankfully let them in and parted way before them, so that they reached the desk without trouble, if not without some staring. A young woman with long green hair, held together with a nice red hair bow ribbon, greeted them, "Good evening!" she called cheerfully. She, like all other women they'd seen in the establishment, wore a tailored piece of dark blue cloth made into a waistcoat. It had a fitting silhouette and was highlighted by white embroidery and elegant buttons. "You MUST be the three new Pathers we have been told about, aren't you?" She seemed pretty excited at the prospect. "My name is Emma, you can call me if you need anything. I'm usually here or around." The wink that followed was distinctly aimed at Xander. Connor chuckled at his friend's flustered reaction. She even had one of those little blurb on her shoulder, a pink one. It cooed, albeit in a bubbly way.
She must like young, dirty, and smelly men. What a strange girl! It had been hard to keep his laughter to himself. But Connor believed he had made a good job of it until Takeo asked him to stop shaking his stretcher.
"R-Right," replied Xander, while trying to fix his hair somewhat, only to take out some grass that had found its way there.
She laughed once again, "I knew it!" and made some weird self-congratulating dance, along with squealing noises. Thankfully the display was short, and she quickly took out three keys from behind her. "There!" She presented them the keys, "It's on the eighth floor, I hope you aren't susceptible to vertigo!" She was probably physically incapable of not jumping around, it was making Connor dizzy, as she explained the various features of the Inn and the layout of their current floor. Apparently, there were communal hot baths on the floor below. They could rent individual rooms there as well. Luckily the welcome package they had earned themselves from escorting Takeo here got them also a bathroom, for tonight. She added another key that Xander was to return when they were done. She had especially pointed at him, with another wink.
"Emma, stop playing with your food!" came a shout from further away. The proprietor glared at her. "We already had that talk!"
"I'm not going to eat him... Just a nibble, maybe!" she laughed. Xander was positively red and melting.
"Not on your shift!" barked back Bob.
She sighed, "Alright, alright..." And she muttered, "What a bore..." She looked at them once again, this time with a more professional behavior. "Anyway, I'll get your dinner started, do you want to take it here, or do you want a private room? Free of charge." The professional behavior didn't extend to the little blurb on her shoulder that was still cooing at Xander, its minuscule little arms were trying to entice him into a hug.
He exchanged a glance with them, Connor didn't mind either way, but said "Seeing people again is nice." Takeo happily agreed.
"We'll stay here, then," he said to the young woman.
She nodded, "Very well. We will be ready for you in... let's say an hour and a half, alright?" They nodded. "Perfect, I'll see you then!" She waved at them and went back to her desk, where she started to write something down. Before they left toward the elevator, she threw a discreet wink at Xander, who flushed once again.
They had to be quick to step on the platform, as it just didn't stay in place. For security, Xander helped Takeo on his feet and helped him up. Connor disassembled the wheelbarrow and put it on the following platform. The thing was too big to fit in his Storage Ring, or it was getting clustered in there. He would have to find another one or get his hands on a Storage Jade, either would be a valid option. Taking an elevator was a novel experience for all of them, and he could hear Takeo telling Xander about those he had "back Home." As the young man pointed out, this was far from secure. Any fool could just fall to his death. Yet, as Xander pointed out, all people stopping here were Pathers. Such people were used to danger, and some even knew how to fly. Besides, the elevator was moving at a moderate pace without twitching, so it was safe enough.
Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.
It took them a few minutes to reach the eighth floor, the owner had seen fit to leave a wide inscription on the wall, so anyone would know where they were. The floor presented itself as a series of three corridors. Those going toward the left or right were long and had over a dozen doors each. The one in the middle was shorter and had only a few doors marked as "Washroom," "Toilettes," and "Shower room." The landing zone was well marked and lit, allowing them to see the various signs, and not fall to their death, to the contrary of the corridors with only a few magical lanterns fixed on the ceiling. Soon enough, they found their rooms. Xander helped Takeo in his room, and Connor went to his.
It wasn't the most spacious room he'd seen. A bed, that seemed ungodly comfortable, a small closet, a drawer, and even a little window. All told, all the basic necessities. There was even a locker but without any lock provided. He wouldn't need it, but they might have to buy some for Takeo and Xander. He removed the armor, grime just fell on the floor. Lady Jessica, please don't think too badly of me... Now that they were back in a civilized place, he was disgusted with himself. He only kept his undershirt and underwear on. And went toward the shower room, soon to be joined by Xander. The room was large, with a tiled floor with water drains, but didn't provide many amenities. Multiple pipes went up and ended with a showerhead. Some inscriptions warned them that this was a cold shower only. They didn't provide any soap or towels. But there was a large mirror and a few sinks available.
They hadn't talked about it, but the warm bath would be welcome after the dinner. Connor summoned the rest of their soap and their dirty and battered towels. The water wasn't as cold as Connor had feared, and he was soon enjoying the feeling of being clean again. The water had taken several hues before going out transparent again. The last remnant of his hair dye fled as well. He was now back to his natural pinkish hair. His cut was still a bit too short for his liking, but practicality had won the argument. The mundanity of it all reminded him that he would also have to do his laundry, and probably find himself another set of clothes, as some of his had been used for various purposes they hadn't been conceived for.
They went back to their room, humming a tune from their past. Connor handed Xander his backpack and went back into his room. They still had an hour before it was time to eat. He would take a short nap and then he would get dressed with whatever remained. As he shut his eyes, he was already tallying his budget, forecasting his gains and necessary expenses. He didn't go very far on that endeavor, as he was soon asleep.
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A knock dragged Connor back to the world of the living, and it was a back-on-his-feet Takeo that greeted him on the other side. "It's time to eat!" he said, with a big smile on his face. Fully cleaned, he looked even younger. There were a few hairs that began showing, on his chin, his head, and his eyebrows. But it was still a bit early to find out his true hair color. He visibly had borrowed some of Xander's spare clothes, as he didn't have any of his own, besides the armored one he had been wearing the whole time. Should he take the time, Connor could probably salvage his Hakame, but he didn't think it was worth the effort. They were flush with less than useful Jades, so potentially rich enough to buy a new set of clothes.
The young man visibly thrummed with happiness. "Glad to see you back on your feet!" exclaimed Connor. "Are you completely healed already?"
Takeo shrugged, "Not really, but I can move about correctly so long I don't try to bend too much," he said. He pulled up his shirt, revealing his healing hole in the abdomen. It was a creepy sight, but it had been filling up quite nicely and showed only a yellow and blue indent. "A few more hours of Stasis and I should be done with this for some time." Connor nodded, happy to see that his friend hadn't forgotten the time limit he was under. "Let's get Xander and eat!"
They didn't even reach the ground floor, and they could already hear the tumults of the Inn. Laughter, clamoring, catcalls, whistling, bragging. It was a cacophony of sounds that was almost overwhelming. They reached the ground floor and were greeted both by a room packed full and Emma, who was waiting for them, still at her desk. "Hey, you look even better now!" she winked at Xander.
He blushed, "Thanks, I guess..." he mumbled.
"Come on, I'll get you someone to show you to your table!" she cheerfully said. She hailed a younger man, a boy really, who dashed through the crowd with the agility of an eel. They exchanged a few words, and soon enough, it was their turn to crack a way through the throng. It took them some time and elbowing to get their way to a table, not that far from a large fireplace, where a piece of meat was currently roasting, a few rows before a stage where a few musicians were competing for the soundspace against the crowd.
Connor's eyes narrowed as he looked at the rotating buffet. Is that... The size and shape seemed to match, minus the wool of course. He snickered, Hehe, someone got his hand on a dreaded sheep. And got it good and clean as well, he observed no impact, nor cut, besides the missing head. Some people are truly monsters themselves to deal with such a beast without breaking a sweat.
Soon enough, they enjoyed their meal. It was a bit noisy, but the food was good, and the ale was excellent. They would have been hard-pressed to name what they ate. Takeo had had a hard time with blueish meat, or pink vegetables. But he had let himself be reassured by the others. The meat was tender and juicy, the vegetables were crunchy and tasty. The ale was a bit bitter, but it was a welcome change from the water they had been drinking for the last few days. Besides, it was free, and they were Pathers, so they could drink as much as they wanted, now!
They still didn't stay long after the meal, as the warm bath and the beds were calling to them. The bath had been divine, and they discovered that Takeo was a prude on that occasion. They had had a few good laughs at his expense but kept the ribaldry to a minimum. Belly full, clean, and warm, the bed didn't have too much work to do to put them to sleep.
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Connor woke up with a start. He had been dreaming of his parents in a bout of homesickness. He had been back in the cavern where they used to live, in a park where his mother used to take him for a walk when he was so very young. There were only a few plants that could grow underground under the light of the crystals. The rest of the park was mostly composed of mushrooms of various kinds, giant or not. They even had dug into one, converting it into a playground for kids. He showed his mother bits of everything he'd find. He remembered her smile, and her laugh at his most gross discoveries.
He would never see her again, nor his father.
He spent some time looking at the ceiling, his mind filled with bittersweet memories. He traced the cracks in the paint, trying to diffuse his morose mood. It was already morning, and he could hear the village working faintly through the half-opened window. Their only plan for the morning was to see the Reader, and from there, they would decide what happen next. The Reading was supposed to be a big deal. They would get their first true glimpse at their stats, natural and otherwise. The Reader would also be able to expand on their Jades, and assist them in finding strategies and builds that would suit them. And hopefully, have on hand the Jades they were missing. He had spotted on their little escapade the previous day that there were a few Jade shops on the first level. With a bit of luck, they would find what they needed.
He got up. They would know soon enough, and he would be able to plan accordingly. He knocked at his friends' door and then took a shower, got dressed, and waited for them. They were soon ready. He stored everything back in his Storage ring as it was the safest place to keep their belonging, beside the wheelbarrow. And they were off.
The Inn in the morning was no less busy than the early evening. The same crowd, but with a different mood. People were eating, and getting ready for their day. Plenty were hovering by the Job Board, looking for their next challenge. Emma wasn't there to kiss Xander a good morning, which would have been hilarious. They went out and hunted for something to eat. They could have had breakfast at the Inn, but all were in agreement that exploring the village was a better idea. They found a stall that sold some kind of fried dough, with a sweet filling. It was delicious, and they bought a few more to eat on the way.
Connor idly noted that no one had asked them whether they were residents or not, nor had they been asked to pay specifically for taxes and wondered how it worked. Were they tracked by some kind of magic all day and they would receive a bill? Or was it a flat fee? Maybe everything was taken care of by the merchants themselves... He wondered if it was prudent to ask the question to a Guard, or a merchant.
The air was crisper in the morning, but the view of the lake was stunning. According to the people around, it was already quite late in the morning, as the sun was about to show its face. The lake was a deep blue, and the waterfalls were a sight to behold. All sixteen of them were massive. They fell from a height of at least a hundred meters. The water was white and foamy, but the roaring sound was strangely dampened. The lake was a bit more than a kilometer wide, and it was surrounded by the cliffs. A river fed it in a delta, but the water didn't seem to leave the lake from anywhere. Beyond the delta, a purple forest grew on the steep mountainside. On the lake, a few boats were already out, fishing most probably by the look of it.
Thanks to the Guardsmen, they soon found their way back to the third level, and the Reader estate. Quite unlike all other buildings on this level, this one was quite eccentric. The four stone walls were adorned with strange arabesques, finely inscribed in the stone and highlighted by a strange game of colors, giving one the impression that they were moving. A tower ornated each corner, and all of them ended with distinctly styled roofs. A wide dome made of gleaming coppery metal and glass covered the inside. A massive stone archway was the only entrance, and it was barred by a massive black wooden door. A very ornate knocker, representing some kind of dragon, awaited them as if daring them to use it. A finely inscribed sign had been fixed on the door, on a golden plaque. It read, "Reader's Estate. By appointment only."
If that wasn't enough, the door was also guarded by two guards, and not official village Guardsmen, no, hireling. They also wore very ornate armor, every bit as eccentric as the building, as if vines of metal of multiple colors had been woven together to make them. They were both armed with a spear and a sword, and they were both standing at attention, looking straight ahead.
Connor couldn't decide if he was intimidated, disgusted, or appealed by the display. The wealth that had been poured into this building was staggering. No other building he had ever seen could rival this one. It was a display of power, and it was working. He was impressed. And consequently disgusted. Who could have so much money to spend on a building? And why? As for the rest... he threw that under his Guide's influence. She was squealing in delight at the sight of the building. Up until now she had been mostly quiet and had been behaving herself. Not anymore. The next few hours would be interesting and probably very annoying.