Command Runes
Nathaniel sat at the desk in the forge, engrossed in the book in front of him. All the known runes were written in its pages, but there weren’t many. Seems like they mostly focused on enhancements. He turned the page. It described a rune that imbued armor with an enhancement that limited the damage from blunt weapons. Pretty useful for plate mail. He turned the page again, and he sat up straight. What have we here.
The rune was shaped like an hourglass with a series of dots in both the upper and lower portions. Nathaniel read through the passage multiple times. A small smile came to his lips.
“So, this rune acts as a counter,” he said, “The number of dots determines the length of time the rune is active, but this does me no good without…a command,”
He flipped the page which described a movement rune. The rune itself was simply an arrow pointed in the direction the object was meant to move. Let’s try it.
Nathaniel pulled out a piece of copper ore and a jar filled with arcanum powder. Thanks to the dungeon, the forge was fully stocked. Seneschal made sure of that. Nathaniel used the smelter to create arcane copper. It’ll be easier than smelting arcane iron. He created a simple wheel shape mold and poured the liquid metal inside. Once cooled, he carved the time rune, with three dots, and a movement rune that ran along the circumference of the wheel. Finally, he placed the wheel on a pole, and suspended it in the air.
Nathaniel waited and after a few seconds the wheel started moving. He counted to three, and the wheel stopped. Then after another three seconds, the wheel started moving again.
“So, the counter is used to time the activation and shut off,” he said scratching his chin, “Are there any other command runes?” He searched through the book, “It looks like the only other command rune is this touch rune.”
Touch Rune:
This rune is used to control the flow of magic to items. Mages have tried using this rune in controlling the release of magic to other runes in order to make magic crystals more prominent in enchantments, but experiments have shown that this is highly impractical. This rune is best used to control arcane lights. No other uses found.
“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Nathaniel groaned, “This rune is the equivalent of a switch, and it’s only used to turn on the lights.” Nathaniel looked at the turning wheel. “Let’s try it out.”
He took the wheel off the rod and carved the touch rune on it, a circle with a single line through it. After reassembling the wheel, he watched it. The wheel didn’t move. When he touched the activation rune the wheel started moving.
“Interesting,” Nathaniel said watching the wheel, “Not only can I use runes for programming, but I can use them to replace electronic components.” he rested his head on the table, “Shit! This could be a problem.” He pulled up his skill menu.
[Runesmith lv. 22]
“I made the durability and shock runes at level eighteen,” Nathaniel rubbed his head, “The system made that the required level needed to properly apply those effects. Which means I need to be careful when creating more complicated runes.” He took a drink from the nearby cup, but the cold soup didn't taste good. “What I wouldn’t give for a…thermos,” Nathaniel stared at the cup in his hands as a smile came to his lips, “I think I solved my dilemma.”
Coming of Age
“Are you nervous dear?”
Sierra stared into the mirror as Lydia brushed her hair, “Yes,” she said.
“Well, you’re turning sixteen,” Lydia said as she braided the girls hair, “From now on you’ll be seen as an adult.” Lydia’s smile became mischievous, “So, who are you going to dance with first? Barrett? Noran?”
Sierra cheeks turned hot, “I was thinking of asking…Nathaniel,” she said, “As thanks for saving me.”
“Nathaniel,” Lydia couldn’t keep the shock out of her voice, “Are you sure?”
“Yes,”
Lydia gave her a soft smile, “And when did this come about?”
“I don’t know,” Sierra wished the windows were open, “But…he did save me from those hunters.”
“Sweetie,” Lydia gently brushed her hair, “You understand Nathaniel has a high rank, right?” Sierra nodded, “That means multiple women will pursue him, and he’ll most likely have to take multiple wives.”
Sierra looked to her lap, “Did Gordon take multiple women?”
“Gordon was the exception,” Lydia smiled sadly, “And it made our lives difficult. And unfortunately, Nathaniel will have it worse.” She said with a sigh, “I’m just trying to warn you.”
“But…maybe,”
“Sierra,” Lydia’s stern voice made her flinch, “This isn’t some fairytale. If you decide to pursue Nathaniel, then you will suffer. You’ll have to make sacrifices because he’ll have to make them too. If you can’t, then it will only hurt both of you.” Sierra nodded as Lydia finished braiding her hair and placed a floral circlet on her head. “The last thing I want is for you to suffer a broken heart.”
A knock came at the door, “Sierra, we’re ready for you,” Oden said peeking in.
Sierra rose to her feet and looked Lydia in the eyes, “Thanks auntie,”
“You’re welcome, dear,” Lydia said, “We shouldn’t keep everyone waiting.”
Sierra stepped out of the room with her father on the right and Lydia to her left. They walked into the foyer of the chapel and the soft music from the piper and lyrist played as the doors opened. The entire village sat in the pews lining the central aisle. Her eyes fell on Nathaniel sitting in corner. He had a polite smile on his face, but his eyes were still clouded with dark circles underneath. Is there anything I can do for him?
Sister Rose, stood at the front of the chapel, her pale red hair fell over her shoulders underneath her white shawl as she smiled at Sierra. If only I could be more like her. The priestess was utterly breathtaking in the plain holy garbs. Sierra approached the front and Rose held up her hands cutting the music.
“Everyone, welcome,” Rose’s soft and beautiful voice filled the room, “We’ve gathered here to witness Sierra’s awakening. After today, no longer will she be a child but a beautiful young woman, whose presence will make our humble community that much brighter.”
Applause filled the room as Sierra walked the steps. Rose kissed her on the forehead and menus started appearing in front of her eyes.
“What is your rank?”
“Basic,” Sierra’s smile faltered a bit. Why couldn’t it be higher.
“What are you talents?”
“[Caregiver] and [Advisor]” The crowd started whispering in excitement.
“What is your class?”
Sierra stared at her class. I don’t understand. “Consular,” This riled up the crowd more.
“Silence!” Rose leaned in with a soft smile, “You have a very special class, Sierra,” she said, “That class is given to those who advise royalty. There will be great things in store for you. I know it.” Sierra smiled as rose took her shoulder, “May Creation and the Archons bless you!”
The villagers stood up and cheered as Sierra, Oden, and Lydia walked down the aisle as sister Rose followed. Outside, the snow was shoveled out of the village square to make way for the large bonfire. Smaller cooking fires sat on one end of the square where the housewives cooked their ‘family favorite’ stew while the kids ran around pelting each other with snowballs. The women circled around Sierra, each giving her advice on securing a husband and being a proper wife.
Lydia handed her a wrapped package, “This is for you,” she said.
“What is it?” Sierra opened the package and stared at the strange garments inside.
“Gordon sent me the recipe,” Lydia said with a knowing smile, “The Inventor created these for the Lady Oracle and the two female heroes. Apparently, this type boosts your charisma.”
“Thanks auntie,” Sierra said with small smile.
“You’re welcome,” Lydia hugged her, “Now, I think it’s time to ask someone for a dance.”
Sierra handed over the package and walked away from the women. The eligible young men stood next to the bonfire. Barrett stood the closest with his wide, goofy grin he thought was charming. He can’t take a hint can he. Noran stood way off but gave her a toothy smile. He was a few years older than her, and she did find him sweet, but…he was too simpleminded. Nathaniel sat at a table nursing a mug of beer, as he talked with her father. With a deep breath, Sierra approached him.
“Nathaniel, would you like to dance?” Sierra said with a smile.
Her father choked on his drink and looked between the of them.
Nathaniel gave her a gentle smile, “Sure,”
A valuable member
“Things are coming together nicely,” Nathaniel said as he looked around the dungeon.
The concrete walls were replaced with hardened metal, and the central chamber with dungeon core looked more like a command center with a console that surrounded it.
“I am pleased you are liking the changes,” Seneschal said, “I figured this setting might help you feel more at home.”
“It does,” Nathaniel said with a smile as he watched the robots work, “I don’t mind the medieval fantasy setting, but there’s a reason why I wanted to be an engineer.”
“Is it because you like robots?”
“What gave it away,” Nathaniel laughed, “So, how do you know about computers?”
“All your memories were copied into the core when your brain was scanned,” Seneschal said as a few images popped up on screen, “I took the liberty of removing certain memories that you acquired during your youth.”
Nathaniel cleared his throat as he tugged on his collar, “Thanks,”
“I figured they would be a hindrance once you start looking for a wife,” There was a slight amusement to Seneschal’s voice, “Besides, there was no real value in those memories.”
“So, what level is the core at now?” Nathaniel really wanted to change the subject.
“Twelve,” Seneschal said, “It appears that dungeon cores also have breaker levels. I’ll start looking for more valuable resource nodes to harvest, but it might be best to look for a more immediate source.”
Nathaniel scratched his chin, “I remember using a few coins when I first claimed the dungeon. Would that work?”
“Yes…I believe that would,” Seneschal said, “Although the purity of the currency could be a hinderance, but we could smelt the coins down and then purify them in the refiner.”
“Then it looks like I’m getting myself a job,” Nathaniel chuckled as he loaded his pack with supplies.
The twenty-minute hike back to the forge was quiet. The cold weather made traversing the wild forest surrounding Treante difficult, so most hostile creatures of the forest wouldn’t be around. That was a relief to the village. It wasn’t easy being a small village on the southern edge of Gilbrant, even more so when you’re on the frontier. It’ll be even harder since Fort Cadarn fell.
Nathaniel reached the door to the forge, “Please Lydia, there must be something you can do.” Nathaniel stepped into the entryway. Lydia and Barin were sitting at the table. Barin held his head in his hands.
“I’m sorry Barin,” Lydia said, “There isn’t much I can do. Even if I sent a message to the guild, their reply would still be the same.”
Barin slammed his fist onto the table, “Damn monsters,” he said slumping in his chair, “We can’t go another year without a blacksmith to tend to our tools.”
“What’s wrong,” Nathaniel said setting down his pack.
Barin waved him off, “It’s nothing you can help with.”
“The village needs a blacksmith to tend to our tools,” Lydia said patting Barin’s shoulder, “But the guild won’t send one out here because they’re all helping with the war.”
“What the hell are those heroes doing!” Barin tore at his hair, “I received word a few days ago that their assault to retake Fort Cadarn ended in a complete disaster.”
“They failed to take back the fort?” Nathaniel said. His mouth hung open.
“No, they took it back,” Barin said, “But the kingdom had to abandon it because the damage was too severe. It wasn’t worth rebuilding. Now they’re managing the war from castle Warnmier.”
“He’s a duke,” Lydia said, “His castle is in between the two fronts.”
“So, his castles is threatened by both Zechriel and the Horde,” Nathaniel sighed in understanding, “I don’t mind working on your tools.”
Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.
“Won’t the guild call on you?”
“I’m not part of the guild,” Nathaniel said scratching his head, “Is that a problem?”
“Thank the Archons!” Barin said taking Nathaniel’s hand, “I don’t have a problem with that. Afterall, Gordon wouldn’t waste his time on a useless apprentice.”
“Do you mind if I charge for my services?”
“Son, I’d be more concerned if you didn’t” Barin said, “Just keep in mind that we don’t have a lot of coin here.”
“I understand,” Nathaniel said with a laugh, “I can start whenever you need me too.”
“Good lad,”
Making a profit
Nathaniel slowly engraved the runes into the arcane copper mug in his hands. He blew out the metal shavings and buffed out the edges with a sheet of sandpaper. I’m glad Seneschal was able to get me the materials to make this. He sat the mug down on the table. Strips of leather were sewn to the mugs bottom and handle, with tin buttons evenly decorating the leather around the rim. It sat next to an identical cup that had brass buttons on the leather rim.
[New Rune created: Chill Rune.]
[New Rune created: Warm Rune.]
[New items created: Chill Mug and Warm Mug.]
[Skill level increased: Runesmith Lv. 35.]
[Skill level increased: Blacksmith Lv. 50]
[Class level increased: Inventor Lv. 37]
“Excellent work master,” Seneschal said from the monitor in the sterile white room.
“Thanks,” Nathaniel said stretching, “What time is it?”
“Almost 5:30 in the evening,”
“I better get going then,” Nathaniel packed the cups into his bag, “Can you start fabricating more of these mugs today?”
“Yes sir,” Seneschal said with a proud tone, “The fabricator bots can easily have a few cases finished by tomorrow morning.”
“Thanks Seneschal. [Warp]”
Light coalesced around Nathaniel as he warped out of the dungeon. Its domain didn’t extend far from the mine entrance, but it did shave a few minutes off his hike. There was still a chill in the evening air, but there was still light coming from the east.
“I can’t believe it been a year already,” Nathaniel said with a heavy sigh,” I think…it was today that we arrived at Fort Cadarn. Wonder what the others are doing?” A sudden pain twisted in his chest. I wonder how mom and dad are doing. “I need a drink.”
Nathaniel made his way quickly to the tavern. Thank god it’s empty. He smiled as he walked to the bar. Rapid steps came from the kitchen.
Sierra rounded the corner as she brushed flour off her apron, “Evening Nathaniel,” she said tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, “Do you want your usual?”
“Yes please,” Nathaniel said pulling out the chill mug, “Could you put it in this mug please?”
Sierra eyed the cup in confusion, “Sure,” she said with a cocked eyebrow, “It’s a nice mug, but…you didn’t need to bring it.” She poured the honey beer in and slid it to him.
Nathaniel took a sip, “Still warm,”
“Of course it is,” Sierra chuckled as she headed back into the kitchen.
Nathaniel reached into his cup and touched the inside wall. He smiled as a cool sensation washed over his finger. Just got to give it some time. He heard the door open.
“Damn monsters,” a large man with thick mutton chops that formed into a bushy mustache sat next to him, “This trip was a complete waste of time.”
“Bad day?” Nathaniel said taking a sip. The cool taste brought a smile to his lips.
“More than that,” the man said, “Barmaid!” Sierra ran out of the back, “Give me a cup of your strongest drink.” Sierra smiled and poured his drink into a wooden cup. The man eyed his drink then looked over to Nathaniel, “Am I not good enough?”
“This is my personal cup,” Nathaniel said glaring at the man. He noticed that the man was wearing a finely tailored suit with colorful ascot.
“That’s…arcane copper,” the man sneered, “What foolishness possessed you to make a mug from it?”
Nathaniel pushed his mug over, “You tell me?”
The man eyed Nathaniel then took a sip, “Archons, it’s cold!”
“How?” Sierra stared at the cup, “We don’t have any ice.”
The man looked back and forth between Sierra and the cup, “Do I look like a hobgoblin? You must have put ice in it.”
Nathaniel pulled out his other mug, “Can I get some cider in this cup please?” Sierra nodded and poured him a drink. “Take a sip,” Nathaniel pushed the mug to the man.
The man took a drink, “It’s just cider,” he said.
Nathaniel stared at the cup for a few moments then smiled, “Take another,”
The man scoffed but took a sip. The man choked, “Damn it’s hot,”
“Hot?” Nathaniel took a sip and sighed, “Warm cider hits the spot.”
“How?” Sierra stared wide-eyed at the mugs.
“I’m planning on selling these,” Nathaniel said taking both cups. He placed a hand on the cup with tin buttons, “I call this one a chill mug. It will make any drink in it cold,” he gestured to the cup with brass buttons, “And this is a warm mug. It heats up any drinks.”
“You’re going to sell these in this backwater village?” the man said, “Preposterous!”
“I want to make extra money,” Nathaniel said with a sigh, “That’s what came to mind.”
“I’m sure Pa would want to order some,” Sierra said looking at the mugs, “But I don’t think we’d have the money.”
“Of course you wouldn’t,” the man said, “One of these cups alone would be about…five gold.” Sierra went pale.
“What makes you say that?” Nathaniel looked at the man.
“Cause I’m a merchant boy,” the man said, “Porman Deluson Quarmane, proprietor of the Quarmane Trading Company.”
“Who?”
“He owns the largest trading company in the kingdom,” Sierra said, “His company sells practically everything.”
“What’s he doing here then?” Nathaniel said looking at Porman.
“I came here hoping to see one of my key suppliers,” Porman said with a sigh, “Unfortunately, the fool didn’t make it out of Fort Cadarn.”
Nathaniel stared at the man, “Gordon?” Porman nodded, “I didn’t know the old man was famous.”
“You knew Gordon too?”
“Nathaniel worked with Gordon at Fort Cadarn,” Sierra said, “He was the one who brought us the news.”
“Is that so,” Porman said eyeing Nathaniel, “What’s your class and rank?”
“Advanced rank blacksmith,”
“Truly,” Sierra looked stunned, “But you're skilled in both carpentry and masonry. And not to mention alchemy, sewing, and fletching.” Porman stared at her, “He’s been a real boon for our village.”
“My dear, please bring us the best meal you serve,” Porman said laying a gold coin on the counter, “And take your time.” Sierra looked at the coin nervously then turned to Nathaniel. Nathaniel nodded and she took the coin and disappeared into the kitchen. Porman turned fully to Nathaniel with a hungry smile, “Looks like my day has just turned around. Wouldn’t you say so…Inventor.”
Nathaniel sighed, “Depends on who you ask,”
“What are you doing here?” Porman said leaning forward, “Shouldn’t you be helping the other heroes on the front?”
“And how exactly would I do that?” Nathaniel said taking a deep drink, “By spending my time inside a drafty castle while the guilds make a profit from my creations? Or do you think that I would be out fighting monsters with the others?”
“You don’t think they need you?”
“Nope,” Nathaniel said, “Because the Gilbrant kingdom pretty much told me to my face.”
“Then perhaps we should change that,” Porman said, his smile growing, “And we both could make a massive fortune.” Nathaniel eyed him from the rim of his glass, “How many of these mugs have you made?”
“Maybe…two dozen each,” Nathaniel said, “That’s just a rough estimate, but I’ll definitely have more in a few months.”
Porman placed a platinum coin onto the counter, “I’ll buy those from you right now for a hundred gold,” he said, “I have a trading house in Rumand. If they sell for more than five gold a piece, I’ll split the difference with you.”
“You’re coming back?”
“Of course,” Porman said, “I like to get in on good investments early.”
“Fine,” Nathaniel held out his hand, “It’s a deal.” Porman shook his hand vigorously while laughing.
Dragon Slayer
A raging battle was coming to an end. A castle laid on its side with a tower crumbling under its own weight. A warrior in silver-white armor fought against a demon in similar armor made from black infernal iron. A dragon-heart woman praised the Inventor for pushing back the demon forces.
Ophelia gasped as she quickly sat up. Her head throbbed violently, and her stomach was twisted in knots. Tears ran down her cheeks as she gripped her sheets in frustration. Why can’t I find him? A hand rested on her shoulder.
“That’s enough Ophelia,” Maria said softly, “Anymore and you’ll lose levels.”
“I need to find him!” Ophelia said wiping her tears, “Nathaniel’s alive and…I need to make it right.”
“So, you saw him,” Shizuka sat in the corner staring at the floor.
“Yes,” Ophelia couldn’t look at her, “It’s the same vision. A battle with demons in which Nathaniel is fighting in his special armor. And he’s with…other women.”
Shizuka tightened her grip on her staff, “Then…we should take comfort in that,” she said in a soft voice, “I’d rather he be happy than miserable.”
“I feel the same,” Maria said with a sad smile, “Besides, we need to get ready.”
Ophelia nodded and rose from bed, and quickly dressed herself in a long white dress. The three women walked through the castle to the courtyard outside. The chilly autumn air stung at their skin. A contingent of soldiers stood ready next to the supply wagons. Three caged wagons sat next to the castle walls with their owners ready to leave. Prince Ollimier and the other two heroes stood by the royal carriage.
“About time you showed up,” Duncan said with a smug smile.
Ophelia stared at the ground, “Leave her alone Duncan,” Maria said comforting her.
“It’s been a year,” Duncan shook his head, “Light is dead. You need to get over it.”
Ophelia glared at him, “He isn’t dead,”
“Then he’s abandoned us!” Duncan glared back, “Face it, he isn’t coming back!”
“Enough, both of you,” Prince Ollimier said, “We have more important things to worry about.”
“Like this dragon we’re going to slay,” Shawn said with a sigh.
Ophelia took a deep breath as she stood tall, "Yes, the ice dragon Ysa’Meera made her nest in the dungeon a few miles from here,” she said, “We don’t want her joining the Horde or the demons, so we need you four to eliminate her.”
“Not to mention, she’s been terrorizing this land for decades,” Ollimier said.
“Then let’s go slay us a dragon,” Duncan smiled.
----------------------------------------
“What are these things!” Maria said, staring at the dead monster at Duncan’s feet.
It looked like a human, but it had a dark blue dragon tail, horns, and scales all over it’s body. A pair of torn wings adorned it’s back.
“They're known as dragon-hearts,” Ollimier said cleaning his blade, “They’re a monster race that serve dragons.”
“Okay, but why is he only wearing armor?” Shawn said trying to avoid looking at the exposed monster.
“We’re not quite sure,” Ollimier said also trying to ignore the monster, “Maybe it’s to distract their enemies?”
“Well, I’m distracted alright,” Shawn scoffed.
“Where’s this dragon anyway?” Duncan said looking around the clearing. They stood at the foot of a small mountain with multiple cave entrances.
“Inside the dungeon,” Ollimier checked the area, “We need to be careful when we enter.”
“I don’t think they’re going to let us,” Shizuka pointed to the dozens of dragon-hearts standing above them.
The monsters took flight and circled around them in the air. A female dragon-heart with blonde hair dove towards them. Her spear glowing with golden energy. She flew towards Duncan and jabbed at him, but he sidestepped and countered with a horizontal cut. The dragon-heart screamed in pain as she slid against the ground. Blood poured down her back from the stumps where her wings used to be.
“Ralia!” The dragon-hearts dove towards them.
Shizuka slammed her staff onto the ground and ten of the dragon-hearts fell to the ground struggling to get up. Shawn fired five of his arrows and struck five in the neck. Maria’s voice rang out as a golden light enveloped them and caused the last of the monsters to fall to the ground unconscious.
“Quick, secure as many of them as you can!” Ollimier commanded the soldiers.
The soldiers rushed forward, but the female dragon-heart roared, “No!” She threw he spear towards Shizuka, but Maria knocked her to the ground. The female monster fell to the ground.
The ten dragon-heart held by Shizuka’s spell rose, “For Mother!” they cried.
The battle was terrible. Duncan pulled his sword from the last dragon-heart, and he fell to the ground dead. The bodies from both sides littered the ground as blood soaked into the soil. The few remaining soldiers bound the five-remaining dragon-hearts in chains, one being the female that started the battle. Thunder shook the ground as they all stared to the dungeon’s entrance. A ten-foot-tall blue dragon stepped out of the entrance. Her golden eyes blazed in anger as she looked upon the carnage.
“Filthy humans,” the dragon growled, “Leave my children alone.”
“No can do,” Duncan said, readying his great sword, “They gotta pay for all the trouble they caused.”
Ysa’Meera growled and blasted them with her ice breath, but Shizuka pointed at her, and a wall of fire blocked the attack. The fire circled around the dragon. Ysa’Meera extended her wings. Arrows flew through the fire and pierced through her leather wings, and she roared in pain as fire burned through them. Ysa’Meera jumped through the fire and swiped at the humans, but Duncan cut at her claw, severing several of fingers. The dragon screamed in pain as a golden light washed over her. She stumbled as her strength was sapped. Ysa’Meera took a deep breath, but pain shot through her left eye, and she released her ice breath over the trees. More pain burned through her chest as Duncan shoved his sword deep into her chest. Ysa’Meera fell with a final twist of the blade.
“Mother!” the female dragon-heart whimpered as the light left the dragon’s eyes.
Duncan climbed onto the dragon’s corpse and rose his sword, “The dragon is dead!”
The cheers from the soldiers drowned out the dragon-hearts’ cries.
Good Night Mom
“Another year’s coming to an end,” Nathaniel said wrapping himself up tightly.
Darkness already threatened to overtake Nathaniel as he made his way back from the dungeon. The dungeon core was now at level twenty. The money from the mugs came in use. I wonder if Porman will like the knife? He knocked his boots against the door before stepping inside.
“I’m back,” Nathaniel called out as he set his pack on the ground. No response. “Lydia!”
He stepped into the living area but found no one there. Lydia wasn’t in the kitchen, or her sewing room. Nathaniel knocked on the door to the bath, but there was no response. So, he quickly peeked inside. Not here either. Nathaniel checked her bedroom and found her in bed.
“Lydia, are you all right?” Nathaniel said softly.
Lydia groaned and barely opened her eyes, “Sorry, Nathaniel,” she said, “I…just felt tired…all of a sudden,”
“That’s fine,” Nathaniel said, “Just rest.” Lydia nodded as she went back to sleep.
Nathaniel quietly closed the door. She’s been sleeping a lot lately. Maybe I should have sister Rose come look at her.
The next morning, Nathaniel quietly checked in on Lydia. Her breathing was shallow and sweat poured down her face. He rushed downstairs and filled a bowl of water and snow and ran back upstairs. He soaked a cloth into the cold water and draped it over her forehead. I need to get Rose now!
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“I’m sorry Nathaniel,” Rose said wiping down Lydia’s face, “There isn’t much I can do.”
“What’s wrong with her?”
“I don’t know,” Rose sighed as she stepped out of the room, “But I’ve heard that grief can wear the body down more than any disease.”
Nathaniel nodded, “So it’s from losing her family,” he said, “But why now?”
Rose looked to the ground, “I believe her anniversary is coming up,” she said, “I think they were married for over forty years. Not to mention, her sons were born in autumn. It’s too much for her to bear.” Nathaniel nodded, “I recommend making her comfortable. I’ll be back to check on her later.”
“Thanks Rose,”
Rose placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, “I’m here if you need to talk,” she said.
The next few days were a blur. Nathaniel went through the motions of waking up, eating, tending to Lydia, waiting, speaking with Rose, and finally sleeping. Slowly, Lydia continued to get worse. Lydia finally woke on the fifth day.
“I’m sorry son,” she said.
“For what?”
Lydia smiled weakly, “For leaving you alone,” she said weakly.
“Nonsense,” Nathaniel smiled, “You…helped me get back on my feet,” he took her hand, “Thank you.”
“Thank you…son.” Lydia’s shallow breathing stopped.
Nathaniel gently laid her hand down. The tears wouldn’t stop, “Good night, mom.”
The eerie quiet was disheartening as Nathaniel packed his bags. Pain, guilt, fear, and nervousness gripped his heart. I guess there’s nothing left. He stared at his things, unable to continue packing.
The cold stares. The mocking. The betrayals. The memories echoed through his mind, haunting him, taunting him, and worst of all was her. The bright blue eyes that sparkled when she looked at him. That warm smile that made him feel wanted. The faith that Ophelia had in him hurt the worst.
“I’m no hero,”
Knock. Knock. Knock.
Nathaniel sighed and headed to the front door. He opened it and gestured for the man to come inside, “What can I help you with Barin?”
“I’m here to deliver a letter,” the headsman said, “Lydia wanted you to have this after she died. Also, she left everything to you.”
“Everything?”
Barin nodded, “Do with it what you want. If you need me, you know where to find me.”
Nathaniel waited for the door to close before opening the letter.
Nathaniel,
I’m sorry for leaving you alone, but I want you to know how much I appreciated you. It was hard, living by myself for the year Gordon was away, and truthfully, it was hard when he was gone, but you made it easier. It felt like I had a family again. No, I did have a family again, and I am grateful for what you did.
Son, I know you feel unworthy of the title of hero. Compared to the others you feel inadequate, and that’s fine. After all, you don’t get to level one hundred without carrying some kind of burden, and I know Gordon’s told you this too. Carry these burdens. If you can’t develop the skills needed to become a hero, then invent them. After all, you are the Inventor Hero, and I’m proud to have you as a son.
Mom,
PS. Find a nice girl or two to support you and give me some grandkids.
Nathaniel sat on the ground as he held his head in his hand. Tears once again ran down his face, but he couldn’t stop the soft laughter from escaping his lips. After all this, she’s nagging for grandkids. Both of my mothers are something else. He picked himself up and headed back upstairs.
Nathaniel dumped his pack out onto the floor, then rushed down to the study and filled it with as many books as he could. When he ran out of space, he filled another, and another, until he had four bags filled. It was heavy, but Nathaniel strapped the four bags on and headed out the door. Nathaniel struggled getting back to the dungeon, but once he was in the domain, he teleported to the central chamber.
He dropped the bags onto the floor, “Seneschal, begin archiving these books. Starting with this,” Nathaniel pressed Lydia’s letter into the core, “Also bring every available material to my workshop.” He started heading there.
“Yes sir,” Seneschal said instructing a maintenance bot towards them, “Is there a particular project you wish to start?”
“I don’t know yet,” Nathaniel said turning around, “But it’s about time I started acting like the Inventor Hero.”