Age 12, Day 128
I am starting to get bored of all the training I am going through and to top it off I am still a recruit. When will I be able to take on a mission? Its times like this when I wish I actually looked like me true age and not some pre-teen adolescent with acne. Today was the selection process to take 32 recruits out on a reconnaissance mission. Everyone had gathered in front of the hall and Chiron began to call out name after name. As each name was called, I just felt like another weight was added to my shoulders, knowing that I was going to be left behind again. After the final recruit was called, and everyone was dismissed I put on a poker face and tried to suppress my disappointment in not being selected.
“Chiron, may I have a word with you in private?”
“Logan, of course, and I can guess what it is about. Come to my office and we will discuss it.” I tried not to shrug his hand off my shoulders as he guided me back into the hall. He must have sensed my frustration because he removed his hand.
“Have a seat. So, what seems to be the problem?”
“It’s like this. This is the fourth time this year you have selected recruits to go out on a training mission, and I have not been selected once. Here I am training day in and day out to better myself and I haven’t gained a level in over a year. But every recruit that comes back from a mission has gained two, three levels or a new piece of equipment. I enjoy your tutelage, but I would like to get out from these walls and maybe earn some cash.” I had to let out a frustrated sigh “I feel like I am floundering in the ocean not knowing which way the shore is.”
Chiron was an excellent listener, probably from all those heroes he has trained over the years. He let me vent for a few more minutes letting me wind down. “Logan, I can understand your frustration, but let me say a few things. Out of all the recruits, who is the most proficient in their choice of weapons? You are. Whose resistances without equipment are comparable to some of our seasoned veterans? Yours are. Who can fight, and win against opponents 5 levels higher than they are? You can. Your trainers believe you would excel on the training missions, but our hands are tied. Solarisian law dictates that no one under 15 may leave these walls in any martial capacity. Even with the full backing of Makarov and all his captains, the city council would not budge on this. This law dates back three centuries when a city on the main continent let a young noble join a force to wipe out some brigands in the nearby hills. He was captured and the brigands thought to use his young age, 13 years old, against the city. Upon threat of torture and dismemberment, the boy’s father opened up the gates during the night, letting them into the city. They ran amuck, killing, destroying, and looting one fifth of the city, before they were run out by the militia. The city, in my opinion, overreacted and placed a ban on children under 15 from leaving the walls. They focused on the age factor, and not the fact that a father would do anything for his son. From that one city, the law meandered across the central continent until it reached our shores with the first wave of settlers. For you see that boy was the good King Alfred’s ancestor, and the family has felt responsible for the deaths of that night. So, it might seem like a ridiculous law that was put in place so long ago but we are forced to abide by it out of respect to the King. Your father probably never thought to bring it up in the hopes that you would be satisfied training and expanding your skills.”
“So, that’s why. I don’t appreciate everyone holding that information out on me, but I can understand not making waves in the city. But you did say I couldn’t perform military actions outside the walls, what about inside the walls? Surely there is something that I can do inside the walls that could enable me to break up the monotony of training? What about hunting skeletons in the sewers or killing rats in a warehouse?”
“Why would you want to kill rats? That’s what traps are for, and the sewers are barely big enough for a child to stand up in. You are welcome to wander the streets to see if anyone is in need of your particular brand of assistance, but you will have to wait until your fifteenth birthday to go on training missions with the Mercenaries.”
“I thought every city had trouble with rats and things living in the sewers. Fine,” I had to let a disappointed sigh out as I said this “I will go see what there is to do.”
Age 12, Day 160
Four weeks. Four weeks I spent trudging back and forth around the town trying to find a part-time job. My work in the compound’s kitchen is fun and all, and I have worked my way up to line cook underneath Tony’s tutelage, but I need change and some spending money. That desire for change came, in part, from my prior life. As a military brat, I expected to move around every three years, and once I joined the military it only strengthened that mindset. Also, if I am not challenged or the job gets to repetitive I look for an out. I still work the morning shift with Tony, but I am desperate to find something to challenge me. The sad thing is that each business I applied at responded in one or two ways: You’re too young or require more time than I can afford. There isn’t a tailor, restaurant, or dive that I haven’t gone into to see if there are any job openings.
Walking down by the harbor, I felt a gust of wind hit my back. The slight chill that went down my spine reminded me that fall was here and it was going to get a whole lot colder real quick. (NOTE: Summer:1-128, Fall:129-256, Winter: 257-384, Spring: 385-512, based off being born on the first day of Summer.) Looking around I saw several street vendors selling various foods, but nothing for the cool weather. Its times like this when I wish I had a nice bowl of chili in front of me. “Yummm, Chillliiii.” I must have sounded like a zombie or a Homer. All I could think about right then and there were all the various snacks, meals and options I had whenever I went out to eat. But, I could nto find their counterparts here. Just thinking about that made me take a second look at some of the vendor’s stalls around the harbor. Not a single one was selling any sort of hot ready to serve meals; maybe this is the niche I was looking for.
One second to the next is all it took for me to make up my mind; it’s time to start my own business venture. I just needed to start collecting the necessities. A license to sell food was easily appropriated through Lucius at the gate. A silver piece a day or 5 gold at the beginning of each year seemed expensive, but that is the cost of doing business. I made sure to ask about taxes, and found that Avatars keep track of all sales. At the end of the year, Lourdes will report all my earnings made to the Kings taxmen and I would have 30 days to pay my 10% tax. Fortunately, I don’t have to worry about the various guilds weaseling in on the street vendors as they do not make enough money, but I will have to prepare myself for that eventuality. The next thing was a stall, but I planned to deviate from the normal stall. Those four weeks wandering around town revealed the ebb and flow of humanity throughout the day. No one place was ever fully busy 24/8 and every part of town will experience dead periods that didn’t see any foot traffic. So, I would need a transportable stall. So, to Hephaestus the Blacksmith I went.
Marching up to his forge, I steeled myself for whatever verbal flack he might send my way. “Greetings keeper of the forge, may your hammer strike true, and your fires never go out.”
“May you find the vein you seek and you profits be bountiful. Tread lightly Aos Si, I am tolerating your presence only because I respect your father. Speak and get out.”
“I come with a business venture, one where your apprentices will gain experience and you will gain coin as well. What I seek is a metal cart in which I can keep food hot or cool, and maybe containers where the heated food won’t burn the customer’s hands but let warmth emanate through, and spoons for them to eat it with. I have the exact dimensions here.”
I placed the parchment for him to look at in the hopes his interest will be piqued. He looked over the schematics while scratching his scraggly beard. “Rotten drawing you have here, the axle should be place here to allow for easier pulling, the legs should be place in such a way as to provide a counterweight. How do you plan to keep these two sections hot and cold at the same time without bleed off?”
“My mother has taught me many things in the arts of enchantments, and I have three sets of enchantments that will enable it to work. One for heating, one for cooling, and the final surrounding the previous two reflecting their energies back into them thus amplifying there effectivity.”
“It could work, but why should I let my apprentices work on such a crackpot idea?”
“Easy I offer to split the proceeds of the bowls/containers/spoons with them 70/30. They made them so they should get the lion share of the profits. Furthermore, if any should need repairs or seek to find out what other work they can do I will be a walking advertisement for them.”
“Hmmph, profit and wise words from such as you. I don’t know, the cart itself would be 40 gold to build in just raw materials.” He seemed to be wavering, so I pull out what I hoped would be the trump card.
Logan’s ChiliChili that is made from beef, pork, red beans, black beans, onions, bell peppers, jalapenos, tomatoes, garlic, cumin, black pepper, and salt.
Effects: For 32 min your body is immune to the cold, For 2 hrs +10 Cold resistance.
“Boy, you have yourself an idea there for sure. This is like eating a piece coal from my forge, but much more savory. You have yourself a deal with one stipulation. You have 2 months to pay me back the 40 gold or I repossess the cart and receive the recipe for your Chili.”
A dwarf has looked favorably on a business deal with you. Dwarf relations +10. However, if the business deal should fail your Dwarf relations will lose 100 points.
“I accept your terms.”
Age 12, Day 224
“Here you go sir, your chili. That will be 2 silver for the chili, and 5 for the bowl. Remember to bring it back next time. Have a nice day. Next! Welcome to Logan’s Chili Stand.” It had been a great month since I started selling. I made 3 silver and 50 copper (3s50c from now on) off each initial sale, and was able to pay Hephaestus off within a months’ time. Averaging 100 customers a day brought in 128 gold (128g) by the end of the first month. That was more than triple what I expected, and a good thing to. 30g went into procuring the raw materials for the chili, since most were scarce commodities during the winter months. But that was all worth it.
“Welcome back Anna. Here is your bowl as promised.” About three weeks ago, I happened to be wheeling my cart down by the baking district after a day of selling my wares and had seen a woman coughing against a wall. As I watched she huddled up against a wall trying to stay out of the wind and catch some of the warmth escaping from the bakery’s basement. Stepping closer, I noticed that she had wrapped a shawl around a young child and was shielding him from the wind and snow with her body. Hurrying to their side, I made two bowls of chili and handed them over. “Please take these, it will warm you up
“Thank you, master, but we can’t accept this, we couldn’t afford it.”
“Don’t you worry, I can afford it and I can’t stand the sight of the two of you freezing out here.”
They both gobbled up the Chili as if it was the only meal they have had in several days. A passage came to mind talking about looking after the widows and orphans and I knew there was anything I could do to help these two I would. They were done within minutes and I gladly refilled their bowls with seconds smiling as they began to show signs of warmth. When they had finished the second bowl, they sought to return it to me but I refused.
“Hold on to those. Any day you need a bowl come find me and I will give you one on the house.”
“But, why? Why are you helping us? You don’t know us and yet you are giving us your food and these bowls?” The look of amazement in her eyes and tears flowing down her cheeks made me want to look away in embarrassment.
“I want to help out, but if you feel like you need to repay tell me your names. And, should you come across anything interesting that might be useful to me come and find me.” The second part I said in jest in order for her to feel like there was a way to repay me.
“I am Anna, and this is my son, Sebastian, master. Say hello to the master, Sebastian.” Sebastian, being 4 years old, did a curt little head nod and hid behind his mother’s skirt.
“Hello, Sebastian, I hope you enjoyed the Chili and I will see you tomorrow. Don’t lose your bowl now, you hear.” I smiled as I heard a little voice mumble “Yes sir.” Their story was a familiar tune on the docks of Solaris. The father was a sailor on one of the many merchant vessels that called this port home. The owner had decided to do one last foray to the southern continent for spices before winter set in; however, the ship never came back to port. Any attempts to contact his Avatar were deemed futile as there are still places on this planet were communications are inaccessible. She had been living hand to mouth for the past two months in the hopes that a miracle would happen and her husband would return. After hearing her story, there was no way I could refuse them. Even if they could never repay me, I felt it was my civic duty to help. So for the past three weeks, they would routinely show up to wherever I was setup and wait in line for a bowl. That brings us back to today.
“Master, you said that if ever I should hear something useful to bring it to you, right?”
“Yes, Anna, what do you have for me?”
“Well, I was down by the baking district, you know where you found us that night, and overheard Juniper the Baker talking with one of her apprentices. You see she thinks someone is following her. I didn’t hear the rest, but hopefully it is something you can use.”
“Who knows? I look into it and see if anything comes out of it.” I finished up the final couple of orders and packed it in for the night. It was two days later as I rolled past the baking district that I caught a glimpse of Juniper’s Bakery that I remembered what Anna had said. Curious as to why someone would be following a Baker I parked my stand in the alley next to her store. Telling Erebos to stand guard, I went into see if I could get to the bottom of this mystery.
The doorbell gave off a cheerful tinkling as I entered. The colors and aromas within the bakery assaulted my senses. It was like I had gone to my happy place. I saw cream buns, multi-tiered cakes, frosted treats, salt-water taffy, and treats galore. Just entering the foyer of this establishment made me want to buy a bag of treats for my family.
“Be right with you,” Called out a lovely little elf. She was in the middle of some very delicate piping on a magnificent ivory cake. The piping was so intricate that I could recognize fleurs-de-lis, lace work, and patterns from over twenty feet away with nary a flaw to be seen. Putting a final embellishment on the third tier, she set her icing down and rolled her sleeves down before coming to greet me. It was quick but I caught a glimpse of an emerald and sapphire tattoo on the inside of her right arm that pulsed with enchantments before it was covered.
“What can I do for you?”
“May the Wind guide your path, and the Stars light your way.” That tattoo was linked to Elven nobility, and a proper greeting was due to her. I performed a formal bow, right leg extended with my right arm sweeping down with a flourish.
“None of that now, I am just a third daughter of a third daughter of a minor duke. I don’t need the royal treatment here, just call me Juniper. And who are you that knows the ways of the People?”
After a quick introduction of myself to include my parents and my ties with the Mercenary Hall, “I am here because you think someone is following you. Is there anything I may assist you with?
“I haven’t seen Linsette in years, you tell her to come in some time she needs to try my newest creations. As for someone following me, I might just be paranoid, but for the past week whenever I go to the bank it feels like I am being followed. Two days ago, I saw a couple of men following me up Main Street and then again over on Market Avenue. Plus the only times I think I am being followed is on the days I deposit my money. I fear they are going to rob me the next time I go. That’s why I didn’t go yesterday.”
“Well that’s easy enough; would you like me to escort you?” Call me old-fashioned, but I cannot resist a damsel in distress situation. “Hopefully, by me just being by your side will deter any would be thieves, but if not, Erebos and I can take them on.”
Juniper started to say “I don’t know, you are kind of young…” I had to interrupt, because sometimes that whole you look young thing gets very annoying. “Juniper, I killed my first man at the age of 5 defending what is now a boon companion, between that companion and myself we have hunted and killed 45 Timberwolves, and I have been training my mind and body for the past 7 years so that I can help those that need it. Please take a look at my status and then tell me what you think.”
“Level 18!!! That’s 3 more levels than me!! (Note: Outside of the original pioneers of this continent and those that actively fight and hunt experience levels are very low. Killing things for experience is the only route to level up. Any other actions taken can give a status bonus, but no experience. The wealthy buy groups in order to kill monsters, the poor are stuck in the city. The few ways to get out of the city are through the mercenary halls, military, sea (navy or merchant), or to gain a job skill that can earn you money. That’s why you can have Master Craftsmen at level 15.) I’m jealous, but obviously you have had some experience. I would be honored for you to escort me to the bank.” The way she said it was like I was given permission to take her to a royal wedding or gala but without any notable sarcasm.
“Well, alright then, shall we proceed?” Extending me left arm to her, I hoped to emulate the actions of a proper gentleman.
“We shall, let me lock up the store.”
Turning the OPEN sign to CLOSED, Juniper and I proceeded down Baker Street heading for bank. If nothing went wrong it would be a lovely 20 minute walk enjoying each other’s company. But, alas, as most stories go it was not meant to be. Not even 3 minutes into our journey, Juniper caught a glimpse of one of her previous followers behind us as we turned a corner. Feeling her arm tense up, I could guess the reason why and began to lengthen my stride to hopefully get us there sooner. I turned my head to catch a glimpse, but all I saw was a mass of milling individuals. Looking forward just in time I prevented Juniper and myself from running into two rough looking characters. They were deliberately blocking our path and gestured for us to proceed down an alleyway to my immediate right.
“Right this way Ms. Juniper, come quietly or your little brother here is going to get hurt.” The shorter one opened up his vest to show a vicious bowie knife tucked into this belt. His taller friend just stood there taking it all in. His hands were the size of hams and which cracked very loudly as he cracked them. His demeanor said to obey, or else get pounded into the gravel. Tiny motioned for us to hurry up “Get in there before it gets messy.”
Pulling Juniper in behind me as fast as I could we proceeded down the alleyway. It was only 2 meters across and about 7 meters deep. I was overjoyed to see that everything was in the shadows of the buildings around us and knew we had home turf advantage.
“Juniper get behind me and keep backing up until you hit a wall or find some sort of covering.” Subtlety pushing her behind me with my left arm, I then pulled Gungnir out of its carrying case hanging on my right hip. Gungnir had evolved in the past two years, and was now a much more formidable weapon. I was looking forward to using it.
GungnirForm 1: Spear;
Level 2: 30 atk, 6 Shadow damage, 1 sp/swing
Form 2: Baton
Level 1: 25 atk, 5 blunt damage, 1 sp/swing
Durability: 250/250
“Son, put that stick away, your sister has some money on her, and we want it. Just hand it over and I won’t have to beat you senseless. You don’t want to your sister to see you bleeding now do you?” The little one kept walking towards me, and I think that was my first mistake, I let him talk too much. Because, it allowed a third man to enter the alley.
“Hey, Rand you get the money yet?” This guy called out to the short one.
“You idiot, no names, and no I haven’t. This kid is trying to be a HERO and I am running out of patience. Get him out of the way.” Rand gestured to the brute, who shrugged his shoulders and came forwarded.
This was going to be a very tough fight so I called out Erebos and shouted “Back two are yours. Be there in a moment!” Rand looked around at my exclamation but didn’t seen anything and assumed I was bluffing at least he was until Erebos let out a Bellow. I love that buff as I felt my strength increase and my stamina felt like it was ready to burst. I ran at the behemoth knowing I would not entice him into a charge like Erik. Instead I needed to use my environment to my advantage. Three meters out from him, I jumped 3 feet up onto the left wall, then jumped across the alley to the other wall, and did one final jump at my attacker. Doing this placed me would place me on a normal persons weak side (left) and would cause him to become off balance to reach me.
Nothing fooled this guy however; he had kept track of me the whole way and was reaching out his left hand to catch me on my descent. That’s ok I had a surprise for him I transformed Gungnir midair extending it out to its full 6 ft length and brought it down in front of me in a vertical swing. He moved his arm to block my swing and absorb any punishment I might deliver. Underestimating my strength and what a spear can do proved a painful experience for him. As my spear came down, I heard a snap of a twig as Gungnir broke his arm in two. The downward momentum of the spear and what was left of his arm acted as a fulcrum swinging the top 2 feet of the spear down slicing his shoulder muscles furthering the uselessness of that appendage. He sank down to his knees in pain, but soon began to straighten his body with resolve. With a glance over at Erebos, I saw he was managing to keep the other two off their feet, but he had several cuts on his arms and was starting to bleed profusely. Needing to get to him, I performed a 360 degree spin and thwacked the giant upside his head for a knockout blow. His body crumpled in place giving me room to run over to help out Erebos.
“Behind, Bos.” Calling out to Erebos letting him I would support from behind and that I was there for him. Hephaestus had it right when he suggested I use Erebos as my meat shield and support him from a distance. Once I was there, Bos rose up to his full height and started send clawed swipes at Rand and the other accomplice. Each swipe could only focus on one of the two foes leaving the other one to attack his side. That’s why when Erebos is fighting alone he tends to stay on all fours allowing for greater maneuverability but sacrificing his more powerful strikes. That formula changes when I fight beside him, I can read his body movements and know where I need to be to be his protector. Erebos swung out to his right at Rand, and as he did I spun around to his left blocking the machete that was coming at his legs with a vertical block. Using the momentum of the attack I let the spear rotate around my hand and it brought down on the top of his head before sending it across Erebos’ back towards Rand who was seeking to capitalize on Erebos returning to all fours. The unexpected attack caught him squarely in the chest puncturing his stomach knocking him out of the fight. Our sudden change in opponents threw off the third punk’s rhythm as Erebos doubled back and bit his sword arm crushing the bones. With a final stomp, Erebos ensured all the would be robbers remained down on the ground and were not going to get up. All told it was a rough and tumble fight that lasted less than 2 minutes. It’s weird how fights go, no matter the skills used it just flashes before your eyes.
“Juniper, can you kindly go get Lucius at the gate? I think he would be the best person to talk to about this.” I didn’t have any rope on me or means of transporting these people to a jail, and I was not going to kill them in cold blood. I did however apply some First Aid to their various wounds to ensure I wasn’t going to be accused of failure to aid a citizen in need. Five minutes later, Lucius and several other guards flooded the alley and began to ask questions. Juniper backed me up by explaining the situation. Lucius was unhappy that there had been fighting on his watch, but the culprits were detained and no one was dead.
“Logan, be thankful I know both Juniper and yourself, there better not be a repeat of this.” He waved us out of his crime scene as his cleric healed up the three culprits. They were loaded into a horse and carriage and taken to the city gaol. These three guys should consider themselves lucky that they weren’t going to be sent to this world’s version of Australia. Operating on a much smaller scale, there were several islands around the world were, upon conviction, prisoners were sent to never to return. Unless these were known felons, or had been through the judicial systems multiple times they would probably get a two year sentence.
As we walked away, Juniper was ecstatic that we survived in one piece and didn’t lose a single copper piece. The way she described the event was almost like a school girl describing her favorite Pop Star. I almost blushed as she kept describing my antics in that alley, and was relieved when we arrived at the doors to the bank. Stating that I would wait outside for her return, I thought back to the events and decided to see what had popped up during the fight. It looks like I had gained two new skills Triple Jump and Whiplash.
Triple Jump (Beginner Lvl 1)Three jumps that allow you to rapidly gain on your opponent using the terrain around you. There is a possible chance of confusing the enemy.
Requirements: Jump at Intermediate Level
Effect: If opponent’s level is lower, 50% chance they will lose sight of you. If opponent’s level is higher, 10% chance they will lose sight of you. If any jump is interrupted, the skill will fail.
Cost: 25sp
Whiplash (Beginner Lvl 1)You have learned new ways of using your polearm. It can now attack your opponents using their body/weapons against them. Your weapon will appear to bend with every attack.
Effect: Damage is halved, but opponent is stunned for 1sec from receiving an attack from an unexpected angle
Cost: 100sp
Thinking on how to use these skills, I missed Juniper coming down the stairs. It wasn’t until she tapped me on the shoulder did I realize that she was back. I really need to work on my situational awareness.
“I want to thank you for your assistance in this. If I had been by myself I would have lost most of my money. Who knows what would have happened? Please take this as recompense for your aid.” Juniper handed me a small pouch. Just by the weight I could tell it was 5 gold pieces. “While I was in the bank, I got to thinking. We may have beaten those three now, but if someone else decides to emulate them I might not be as lucky next time. Would you be interested in delivering my weekly income to bank? I will pay 25 silver per delivery and I will encourage my fellow Bakers to do the same.”
25 silver per Baker across 20 or so Bakers could net me 320 gold a year with a possibility of more clients coming in as my name gets spread around. That is a nice sum of money to earn and combine that with the cart I will have a nice nest egg to rely on. I now could afford to expand my food catering business, and I figured I knew just the person. The return to the bakery went off without a hitch, and I waved goodbye to Juniper with promises to bring mother by the next time she was in town. An hour later I had found the person I wanted.
“Anna, I want to thank you for pointing me in the direction of Juniper. If not for you overhearing her conversation I would have missed out on a very lucrative deal. Question for you though. Have you had any luck in finding a job?”
“You’re welcome young master, and no luck yet. If not for your generosity, there would be nights where Sebastian and I would go to bed hungry.”
“Well, if you are up for it, how would you like to have your own chili stand?” My grin widened even more as she stood there stunned. She was probably expecting a few coppers or silver for her efforts not a job offer. “Now, you won’t have to worry about the cooking recipe or providing any payments. 30% of your income will go towards restocking your supplies, 30% will go to me as your employer, and the rest is yours to use as you see fit. Do we have a deal?”
“Yes, oh yes, yes, master. I wholeheartedly accept.” She didn’t know what to do, bow, curtsy, turn around, jump to the heavens, or start wailing. I reached over and grabbed her hands and tried to calm her down. “Anna, take it please, I need to expand, and you deserve the chance to provide for your son. Now for the 100th time, stop calling me Master, and let me show you the ropes of operating this stand. I will have Hephaestus make you a cart. Everything should be ready by next week, but you can start working right now.”
For the next couple of weeks, the two of us sold Chili to everyone we could bringing in a nice steady cash flow. It was nice to see Sebastian begin to fill out as they were able to afford more substantial food. As spring got closer, I knew we were going to have to figure out a new item to sell as Chili is more of a Cold Weather food. But, I had thought ahead already and my next venture was going to be homemade ice cream. An easy to make treat that requires few simple ingredients: salt, milk/cream, sugar, and flavoring. Mix it all together in the right quantities and you have a nice treat to cool you down after a hard day’s work. I was going to be making so much money Weed and Ark would be jealous.
Age 12, Day 384
The first day of spring had arrived and not a single speck of snow to be seen anywhere in Solaris. It was a good to be out and about, but I was beginning to get worried that Anna had not shown up to collect her portion of the food. I wasn’t in too much of a hurry, but it wasn’t like her to be an hour late. As I was about to get ready to go and look for her, a man came up to me and took a knee before me.
“Are you Logan, the owner of this stand?”
“I am. Why are you kneeling?” I looked around nervously, as some people were staring at us.
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“I am Raphael, husband to Anna and father to Sebastian. I owe you a life debt for the care you provided my wife and son ever since my ship went missing last fall. I beseech you take me as your servant so that I might repay this debt. I am yours.”
“Raphael!” I was so excited to see him that I gave him a big hug. I knew Anna had gone every morning to the docks to look for his ship to come in and gone to her church every night to pray for his safe return. “Stand up, what is it with you and your wife. I saw someone in need and helped out. There is no debt between us. If there was any, you wife has more than repaid it by working for me manning my second stall. I have no need of a manservant or slave.”
“But, this can’t be, I have to do something to repay you, there has to be something. I quit my job as a sailor in order to become your servant. You can’t turn me away.” His words and actions seemed to get more desperate with every statement he made.
“Raphael, calm down, if you want to repay me because you think you owe, fine. I am looking to expand my ventures anyways. How are you at defending yourself? What weapons and skills do you have at your disposal?”
“I am currently level 56 Merchant Marine. I am well versed in the cutlass and close quarter fighting.” As I looked at his stats I decided to take another chance with this family.
“Okay, here is the deal. I am currently acting as a courier between 93 businesses and the bank. It is getting so busy that I cannot do it all by myself. I offer you the chance to become my head courier in S.P.E.E.D. (Secure Personal Efficient Economical Delivery). As Head Courier, you will hire and ensure that whenever packages need delivering you get them there. Our goal is to insure every package against theft or damage. I will back up each package personally with my money. I will give you free reign in hiring, but do have a few stipulations.” I went on to explain how I wanted everything to go. I would provide several bags with the logo stitched into them and enchanted so that they could not be easily duplicated. I would also, unbeknownst to Raphael and his future crew force, place a tracking enchantment within the fibers of the bag. This would allow me to use a rudimentary tracking spell via Lourdes to know where each courier bag was at any time. Since he would be doing the labor and I would be providing the supplies and monetary backing we would split the income 60/40. His 60% would go towards the payroll, and my 40% would allow me to build up a deep enough well to pay of any losses.
It’s weird, a new world, new body and I am still looking for business ventures. I might not be a merchant in this life, but I can still find ways to bring in money. I for one do not want to rely on my parents for income. The equipment they gifted me for my birthday, but I was going to need upgrades and replacements.
Age 15, Day 1
Today was the selection process to take 32 recruits out on a goblin raid. Everyone had gathered in front of the hall and waited for Chiron to start calling out the names. The Royal Wolves (my dad’s group) would be leading this mission, and everyone was excited to see who would be going. Climbing up onto the stage, Chiron pulled out the List.
“Today we will be sending a group of 32 out on an 8 day mission. Our rangers have found a small goblin outpost at the foot of Talon Mountain range and our task is to wipe it out before they get a stronger foothold on this side of the mountain range. There are approximately 200 goblins reported to be in a makeshift fort. Lieutenant Dan will be leading this task force with his four Sergeants: Erik, Leiber, Jackson, and Dirk.” At the mention of Erik’s name, my head snapped up. Not in outrage or terror, but in delight. Since our little scuffle 5 years ago, Erik had been training continuously and taking on every mission possible. He was now level 74 and he regularly beat me in our practice sessions to include those where Erebos helps out. Training my skills is great and all, but a 54 level difference is still a tough hill to climb.
“As I call out your names please form column behind your Sergeant. For Erik’s squad: Logan, Jonathan Swiftfoot, Max, Korin, Slater, Barbara, Jane, and Michael.” I tuned out the other squads names as I proceeded to line up behind Erik. Finally, I was going to be able to leave these walls and experience some actual fighting. Once all four squads were formed up, Chiron dismissed us to get acquainted with each other.
Erik led us to a secluded corner underneath a massive oak. “Everyone pop a squat. For those that do not know me, I am Erik, level 74 Warrior specializing in sword and shield. This afternoon everyone will put together their kits and tomorrow we will head out. Before we start on what you need, I want everyone to give a brief description of themselves. Age, Class, favorite weapon, and anything else you want. Logan you start off first, and bring him out so there are no surprises on the road.”
“Well, I am Logan. 15 years old, a level 20 Grand Beast Master and I have two favorite weapons. The first is Gungnir here and the other is behind you. Be warned Erebos is a level 24 Spectre. Consider him a Shadow Warrior, specializing in attacking from the dark.” A couple of the recruits had seen Erebos and were prepared, two of the guys let out little yelps of surprise as Erebos waddled past to sit by Erik in the shade. The two of them had made up a couple years back. Let’s just say a lot of beef steak was involved and several jars of honey. “The two of us have been together for 10 years and have had fun hunting down wolves, deer, and a couple of thieves. However, this will be our first real conflict I look forward to working with everyone.”
“Thank you, Logan. Now most of you might wonder why a 15 year old is involved here, but let me assure you his skills will be a great asset to us. As each of you introduce yourself I will also assign your jobs. Logan your primary job will be Cook, Tailor, Item Enchanter, and third string healer due to your First Aid skill. Erebos will be a scout for us and appraise us of any possible hostilities along the way. For any conflicts, I want the two of you to focus on our right flank. If no one is coming from that way, I want you to come in a pincer movement to attack the enemy’s sides. If I should be incapacitated you will take command in my place. Next.”
“Jonathan Swiftfoot, level 22 Ranger, my long bow and my traps are what I use. Look forward to this.”
“Thank you, Jonathan. Your jobs are procuring food for Logan while we travel to supplement our stores, as for conflicts you will keep an eye for leaders or severally injured. Either one you take out as fast as possible. Next.
“Max, level 24 Berserker, and my Hammer is my weapon of choice.” That hammer was massive, standing 5 and ½ feet tall. The hammers face was the size of a dinner plate and it had a nasty looking claw on the opposite side. That weapon was made to do massive amounts of blunt force trauma to anyone unlucky enough to get caught in swinging range.
“Max is going to be our off-tank in any battles. Your job is to ensure that no enemy slips by to attack our healers or ranged attackers. You will be responsible for setting up and tearing down of camp. Next.”
“Korin, level 24 Warrior, I specialize in sword and shield.” Main tank.
“Slater, level 22 Adventurer, Crossbow and traps.” Ranged damage.
“Barbara, level 21 Wizard, fire.” Ranged damage, no Area of Effect.
“Jane, level 23 Cleric, hammer and holy damage.” Primary Healer, focuses on Korin only.
“Michael, level 22 Cleric, hammer and holy damage.” Secondary Healer, focuses on everyone else.
After we had all shared our information, Erik had us give Jane and Michael our hit points. Once that was done, we went over to the quartermaster to receive our necessities. They included bedroll, canteen, tents, personal hygiene items, and a rucksack. Mercenaries and Armies have many differences in their modus operandi, but one thing I noted was in how equipment was issued. The hall provided us with basic items, but no equipment. We were responsible for equipping ourselves either through our own money or looting on the battle field. Just looking at my squad mates gear, I was a little worried about what we might have to face. Hopefully I could enchant their gear and see if Jonathan can get some leather for us along the way to augment several items.
Age 15, Day 2
The next morning we all arrived at the front gates of the Mercenary Hall. Lt Dan had us empty out our rucksacks and do an inventory of everything in there. I heard a few yells coming from another squad which only got louder as one poor recruit scampered off to get an item he lost. Mental note: keep track of items. After everything was checked off one last time, we loaded the wagons (one for each squad) and set off on our adventure. It was slow start though as it took us one hour just to get out of the main gates. Once out of those gates we headed due west. In the distance the Talons could be seen clawing at the sky around them. Between them and us were 3 days of plodding through fields and forest.
To pass the time we shared stories of our youth, but as my squad was made up of Academy graduates, their outlook was slightly different. They knew each other and their capabilities and I was the only unknown factor. Not wanting to be an outsider, I offered to enchant whatever equipment they had. I couldn’t use my full talents as most of their gear was only simple iron or leather, but I could give them status buffs. Leather items gave agility, Iron gave strength, Wool gave Wisdom, and so forth. Even a status increase of +1 or +2 gave everyone a confidence boost. As we went along, Jonathan brought me several boar and deer hides that I was able to outfit everyone with a least one item (leather belts, a vest, new moccasins)
Age 15, Day 5
It was getting dark and we were supposed to be making camp. The Ranger that was supposed to direct us to a good camp ground was nowhere in sight. Lt Dan stopped us on the trail near a clearing in the woods and had us start to set up camp. Calling out to his Sergeants, he gestured to a log where he spread out a map. They all went over and began to have a heated discussion. After a while, Erik came over and had us gather round. “The LT is worried that the ranger hasn’t appeared. He was supposed to meet us four hours ago. Jonathan could you please scout out the area and see if you can see any sign of him. Logan, can you send Erebos out as well.”
“Sure thing, boss.” I gave Erebos a quick rundown and sent him out to look around. Before he left, I told him to check in every 15 minutes with updates as there might be Goblins roaming about.
An hour later, Erebos sent me a mental image that I was not ready for at all. In it I saw a man hanging from a scaffold, but his legs had been flayed. Erebos was too far away to hear anything, but the contortions running through the man’s face clearly showed he was in pain. Even as I watched, he was lowered feet first into a fire and left there for a minute before being raised back up. The level of pain he must be going through must be mind-numbing and to be able to carry on spoke to his fortitude. I tried to make out who was doing this to him but my eyes wouldn’t tear themselves from the sight. One of my squad mates, I think it was Jane, nudged my shoulders. Later, she told me my face had gone white and my body had tensed up. Turning towards camp, I shouted out “Sergeant Erik, Lt Dan come here.” While waiting for them, I tried to see anything else through Erebos’s eyes. Hearing my leadership approach, I started to describe everything to them.
“I think I found our ranger, at least someone wearing a Royal Wolves badge. He is currently being tortured 3 miles East North East of here. He is on scaffolding located in the middle of a palisade. The palisade is made up wood placed vertically into the ground and covers a good acre of ground. I see two log cabins within that could hold 50 of us easily and masses of creatures running around. They stand about 4 feet tall, misshapen heads, long scrawny legs and arms, and seem to be wearing wooden and iron armor. I can’t get a head count as they seem to be constantly moving. There is one main gate in and no covering for a couple hundred meters around them. I don’t see any watch towers, and only 10 or so guarding the walls.”
“Well done, keep an eye out and try to write down anything that might help us. Everyone gather round. This has now become a rescue mission and we will not be attacking tomorrow afternoon, but instead we will be attacking in 6 hours. By the numbers: 1st squad is on guard duty, the rest take a 3 hour nap rotating out every hour. Sergeants, Logan with me we are going to see if we can find a weak spot to manipulate and save Longstride. I don’t think he has let any information out about us, but we must plan accordingly and be prepared that they are waiting for us.” We sat around the fire and the five of them quizzed me on every aspect of that palisade. I instructed Erebos to get as close as he could and see if there was any way we could open the gates.
Erebos crept closer and began to circle the goblin fort looking for ways to get closer. The moon was hidden behind a thick cloudbank that had rolled in during the past hour. Our rangers prayed that it would not rain because it would cause their bowstrings to become useless. However, those clouds made everything that much darker and allowed Erebos to sneak right up against the walls. Hugging close to the wall he encircled it clockwise pulling at beams to see if any were loose. A quarter circle away from the gate he came across a narrow opening between two beams. Using Erebos eyes, I saw that one of the log cabins was almost butted up against the wall, but there was a crawl space someone could fit through. That hole was going to be our entrance. A few more minutes of discussing which group should enter and open the gate and a few more on what types of distractions should be implemented. We all dispersed to sleep and prepare for tomorrows conflict.
Age 15, Day 6, 0300
Mud crawls. Pushing yourself through mud, weapon in front of you cradled in your arms trying to cover 200 meters without being seen or heard is extremely difficult. I hated it in basic and I hated it now, but it was something that had to be done. Our targets were pre-coordinated and we were not to deviate from them. If the gate was at the 6 o’clock position on a clock, my squad was coming in from the 3 o’clock. Our job was to get to the wall, infiltrate the palisade, and open the gate. Squad 2 would provide a distraction at the 9 o’clock position at 0332. Pulling myself the final foot, I rolled up against the wall and looked through the hole that Erebos had indicated. Looking through I saw underneath the cabin to the central fire pit. The fire had died down to embers leaving a soft glow and giving off a few sparks every time a log settled. There were a few goblins on the ramparts, but otherwise it seemed empty. Getting a time hack from Lourdes, I saw that we had 10 minutes before the fireworks were going to start.
Taking a deep breath, I shimmied my way through the hole wishing at times I could meld into the shadows like Erebos. Pulling myself through, Erebos sent me a mental picture of myself wiggling like a worm and covered in mud. His mental laughter at my predicament was annoying especially when he simply dropped down into his shadow and appeared on the other side of the wall.
After the last person was through we lined up to prepare for the dash to the front gate. At exactly 0332, Squad Two’s mages set off several lightning bursts. They might have overdone it a bit, because the woods around the strikes caught on fire. The fire began to rage and we could hear the exploding sap from where we were at. From the initial strike to me covering the 100 meters to the gate was under 12 seconds. Upon arrival I put all my strength into lifting the cross bar from the gate in order for our reinforcements to get in. I heard a wet thunk from behind, but I trusted my mates to watch my back. With a final heave, I pushed the gates open to allowing the other 3 squads to pour in. Turning around I found the prone body of a goblin sword in hand lying at my feet with a crossbow bolt sticking out the back of his head. Sending a salute towards Slater, I fell in on my group’s right flank and rushed towards the ranger.
Squads Three and Four were assigned a log cabin each to watch. Poor goblins, as they came rushing out of their domicile, ran right into a blade storm of death. The warriors in each group were elated at the carnage they were bringing down on the goblins with very little risk to themselves. As the doors on the cabins only allowed two or three goblins to come through at a time, a steady pile of dead bodies was growing at their feet. The ranged members of each squad split off to climb up onto the ramparts sweeping them of any remaining guards. With 8 of our archers keeping eye on the outside of the fort, the rest picked sniping positions and aiming through the open doors. Each arrow that flew through a door hindered the crowd coming out. Those that did come out were hobbled by arrows in their legs or torsos. Since we were considered a platoon everyone was sharing the experience of each kill and getting a sizeable amount of it. Each level 25 Goblin gave 600 xp per kill meaning everyone was going to get a minimum of two levels tonight. Glimpsing the carnage being wrought by our folks, I was glad I had such people on my side.
“Michael, cut him down and start healing. Logan do a quick field dressing on him to staunch the blood loss, then circle round back and keep an eye out for any surprises. Alright folks Turtle formation.” With these words Erik took point. There were no complaints that he was stealing experience from us. In this type of situation any support counts, and have someone who is level 74 is a great boon. I applied my bandages to the ranger’s legs, and then got in position.
The sounds of fighting from both cabins were quieter and the battle looked to be over. Squads 3 and 4 lined up to do a sweep of each cabin, but as Squad 3 placed their feet on the first step the cabins walls exploded. A behemoth came lumbering out kicking debris all over the courtyard.
“Earth Elemental” Lt Dan shouted “Sergeants to the front, Casters use Fire and Ice, everyone else back up!!!”
Lt Dan and the four Sergeants went charging at the monster as everyone looked stunned. The switch from a 3 foot tall Goblin to an 8 foot tall monster made of rocks, earth and malice was a shock for everyone. Erebos had my back once again, and gave off his Bellow. I used that as a reminder that I was second in charge to Erik, and I had to make sure my squad was taken care of, to include the ranger.
“Michael, Slater, and Swiftfoot take the ranger and head out now. Rendezvous at the wagons. Jane you keep your eyes on the Lt. Toss minor heals in. Nothing major, do not attract attention. Everyone else sweeps the area and kills any remaining goblins. Remain in groups of two at all times.”
By taking command during a fight, you have gained 10 points in leadership
Following my own directions I swept to the north with Erebos to see if any Goblins were left. However, there were no Goblins left anywhere in the fort. The elemental was the last combatant for us to deal with. It must have been a failsafe placed by the Goblin leadership in case the camp was overrun. Their foresight was commendable, but they didn’t see Lt Dan and his 4 Sergeants coming. The five of them went to work on the beast tearing it apart stone by stone. 5 Bull Terriers that would charge in do a little damage then jump back before being caught by the things arms. One hit by those pile driver arms and your ribcage would be snapped into a thousand pieces. The way they fought the elemental seemed like a training exercise to me. Lt Dan would direct one person to circle round while he taunted the mass. The other three would hold back until all the focus and rage was on the LT. Lt Dan would coordinate any attacks telling them when to rush in and when to back out. He made sure that if attention was off him to get everyone out of range and use a critical strike or powerful blow to enrage the monster again. Jane never tossed a single heal their way the whole time they fought. It should have been over in minutes, but it was their chance to show us how to take down Boss type monsters. The primary lesson learned was that backup weapons are always required. Erik’s sword would have been useless against an opponent that had no flesh or blood to capitalize on. Instead everyone used magically reinforced maces and claymores to crush the being into submission. Crying out in pain the elemental went down on one knee bringing his head to the LT’s shoulder height. Lt Dan gave a cry out to the Creator for strength, and brought his hammer down on top of the skull crushing the spark of life contained within. A cloud of dust rushed out from the body covering everyone within 10 meters in a light film.
“AOOOOOHHHHHH” The wolf’s cry echoed and reverberated across the glade released from 36 conquering heroes. We had won and without a single loss. There were cuts, bruises, and one person had loss their arm, but no deaths. Lt Dan directed each squad to start searching the debris for anything lootable, because it is our RIGHT to claim the bounty of our vanquished foes. It also was a celebratory rite of passage for those of us who had never seen this level of combat before. Each silver coin, or iron dagger was bagged and set by the gate to await our departure. After every scrap of useful equipment was looted we hauled our load back to the wagons. Before we left though, we set fire to the camp to cleanse the infestation that had been there.
The next morning, we did a final check to make sure the fire was out and the wooden walls had all been destroyed. Ten years from now there would not be a single piece of evidence that a battle had been fought here. The goblins bodies were buried by an earth mage who had opened up a pit underneath them. Twenty minutes to dispose of 200 bodies was amazing. Remind me never to piss off an earth mage.
The ranger was awake when we arrived back at camp and wanted to thank each and every one of us for coming to his rescue. His name Leland Longstride and had been awaiting us for two days. Traveling around the fort he had gotten trapped between two scouting parties and was captured. The loss of his legs could be seen on his face, but the joy of facing another morning amongst friends was a blessing only the Creator could provide.
“I am forever grateful for rescuing me. I am not a rich man, but if there is anything I can do to aid you please call on me.” A formal bow from the seated position may seem silly at any other time, but the gravitas of the situation was felt throughout the camp. Every one returned the bow in the spirit it was given.
“Leland you would have aided us if we had been in the same situation. I am glad that we arrived in time to save you and destroy the camp as well. As for the rest of you, well done. Since we are all gathered a quick rundown on the fight is in order. Archers good control with your rate of fire, I did count 30 arrows wasted however. Casters, thank you for not doing out of control area attacks. I understand that mana was kept at 25% across the board. Melee, good job of keeping the Goblins contained within the cabins. Only real critique is that when the Elemental attack, everyone froze. It took Logan 5 seconds to rally his squad and then everyone else. Remember, surprises on the battlefield will happen. Take them, learn from them, but don’t let them distract you from the job that needs to get done. I will let your Sergeants divide the loot amongst their people. You are dismissed.” That’s what I like, Lt Dan gave us the down and dirty, but didn’t go on for hours.
Erik waved us over to our wagon. “Well, done folks, you kept focus throughout and I appreciate working with you. Now it’s time to divide the spoils. Each of you receives 5 bags of silver at a gold per bag, as well as, several precious stones. Our portion of iron daggers, breastplates and miscellaneous armor will be melted down. If you desire a portion to work on your blacksmithing skills or jewelry craftign, be sure to contact the quartermaster on our return. The same goes for the skins we found in one of the cabins. Get a good night sleep; we have the last rotation for guard duty tonight. In the morning, we head back to Solaris.”
Age 15, Day 10
We had arrived in the city late last night and Erik had everyone bunk up in the dormitory. According to him, we had one final thing to do in the morning before we were officially released. After eating breakfast and getting a resounding round of applause from the rest of the Mercenaries we gathered in the courtyard to await our directions.
“Alright folks, follow me.” Erik headed out the gates and into the city without another word. Everyone looked at each other and just shrugged their shoulders. Max and Strider tried to pry something out of Erik, but he was being obstinate. Nothing was forthcoming so we simply followed him. A fifteen minute hike brought us down to the docks and to the front of building. I couldn’t tell what it was; there were no signs or clues that could inform us where we were.
“Listen up, when we enter here; I want everyone to remain quiet. The person within used to be a member of the Mercenary Hall and offers us a unique service. He does this as a side business and doesn’t want his services plastered across town. If anyone destroys that trust, that will be means of disenrollment from our rosters. Do I make myself understood?”
“Sir, yes, Sir.”
Entering into the building we found ourselves in a parlor that could be in anyone’s home. Chairs were spread out across the front enough for everyone to sit down in. Since Erik was standing we all remained standing as well. After a couple minutes, an elderly gentleman entered. His back was hunched over from many hours at a desk or working at some project with his hands.
“Welcome, I am Kiath, a level 134 Enchanter and an Inkmaster. Erik has brought everyone here for the unique service I can provide. You see I have learned how to enchant tattoos that will give permanent buffs. I can’t reveal how I gained this skill, but the Crafsman blessed my hands with the ability to imbue ink with power. I will give everyone here a shield, the crest of the Mercenary Hall. Once you have been accepted into one of the four branches I will place the branches symbol into your crest. The crest can go anywhere on your body, but usually it will go on your left breast. For you ladies, I can tattoo through clothes so you needn’t worry about that.” His smile reflected he had protests on the subject before.
“Umm, Sir.” I politely raised my hand and waited to be acknowledged.
“Yes.”
“Do you or will you give other types of tattoos?”
“Yes, I do. Depending on the size and shape of the tattoo. I usually charge 5 gold per square inch as there is no ingredients besides ink and my mana required. The effects are reflective on the subject matter. For example, the crest you will receive today will give you +10 to your defense as for the color I leave that up to you. Black gives bonus towards sneaking and dark resistance, Blue allows for a swimming bonus and water resistance. If you have the money today I can provide other tweaks to your tattoos.:
“Thank you sir.”
We lined up one after another to receive our tattoos. I decided to be the last in line, because I had some money to spend and this would be a perfect time to do it. Each tattoo took about 30 minutes as Kiath had to recover his mana and prepare himself for the next round. The variety in each tattoo was amazing, I saw reds, blues, and many other colors that I wished my wife was here to tell me what they were. It soon came clear I wasn’t the only one that decided to spend their money on upgrading or adding onto their tattoos. There were tiny swords, arrows, pictures of mana, and the elements encircling the main crest. Then it was my turn, everyone else had left to go about their business leaving just me and Erik.
“Erik, can I see your tattoo?”
“Sure.” He revealed his tattoo, but it wasn’t a little crest with a wolf. His tattoos went from his right shoulder down his right side. One quarter of his chest was covered in tattoos. It must have cost him a fortune, but I was glad I guessed right. Here was a way to augment your armor without having to get rid of a really useful piece.
“Just let your imagination run wild Logan. If Kiath can imagine it he can draw it.”
“Alright Kiath here are the tattoos I would like. The crest done in black with gold lining and a spear behind it. On my right shoulder I would like a bear; I will introduce you to the subject matter in a moment. Wings on my feet, then I need strength, agility, and vitality tattoos and any other status you can give me. Also, can you give me a color wheel on my stomach symbolizing the resistances. Each resistance blending into the next.”
Oops, I did it again. I had stunned the people around me with my actions. What I had just described was going to cost me 720 gold and cover 144 square inches of my body, but it was going to be worth every copper. Several hours later I was the proud owner of 10 new tattoos.
The crest of the Mercenary Hall.
+10 defense, +5 resistance to dark, 5% movement in the dark. +5 to Leadership
A Shadow Bear standing up on his hind legs roaring in defiance.
+10 attack, +5 resistance to dark, 5% movement in the dark
Wings of a sparrow located on the heel of the left foot.
+5% movement
Wings of a sparrow located on the heel of the right foot.
+5% movement
A color wheel representing the resistances.
+5 to all resistances.
A fanciful depiction of Gungnir.
5% damage with spears
A chimera on the right leg.
+5 Strength, Vitality, Agility.
A sphinx on the left leg.
+5 Wisdom, Intelligence, Mana Regeneration
An Oak on my right forearm.
+5 Strength, Vitality, Stamina Regeneration
A Willow on my left forearm.
+5 Agility, Luck, Health Regeneration
These tattoos had seriously put a dent in my wallet, but I had been saving for the past 2 and half years for something like this. The upgrade in power was tangible as I made my way back to the Mercenary Hall. I was looking forward to any other missions I might go on. This time next year I would be at the Academy, and I wanted every advantage I could when I entered those hallow halls.