Ophelia gave a strained smile at the two heroes sitting across from her. Duncan sat forward with his legs spread apart and his eyes lingering on her chest. Shawn laid against back against the seat with a sly smile. His eyes darting back and forth between Ophelia and Maria.
“We’re glad you’re joining us today, Lia,” Duncan said with a charming smile.
“I want to get to know you all, since I’m responsible for you,” she said, “And I would prefer you call me Ophelia.”
“I wouldn’t mind sharing in a more…intimate setting,” Duncan said with a chuckle.
Ophelia’s smile vanished, “Please take this seriously Champion,” she said, “I am your caretaker, and as such, your actions reflect back on me.”
“So quit being an ass!” Maria said.
“Fine,” Duncan leaned back, “What do you want to know?”
“What did you do back in your world?”
“We were both freshmen in college,” Shawn said, “We were part of the same football team.”
“I was a quarterback and Shawn was a running back,” Duncan said looking out the window uninterested.
“Football?”
Maria said, “It’s a type of sport back home. There are two teams fighting over a ball, and the team in possession of it tries to get it to the opponent’s side of the field to score points. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.”
“Sounds complex,” Ophelia said with a confused look.
“Not really,” Shawn said, “It basically came down to getting the ball as far down the field as possible. As the quarterback, Duncan managed choosing how we played. While I, as the running back, oversaw getting the ball to other side.”
“Excellent,” Ophelia said looking at them, “Your skills from this ‘football’ should easily carryover. Much like the skills from your counseling, Maria.” She smiled brightly, “Now I can plan your lessons.”
Duncan twitched, “Lessons?”
“Yes,” she said, “Once at Fort Cadarn, it will be imperative that you build up your skills. So, you’ll be spending the next few months raising your skill levels.” Ophelia noticed Duncan go white, “Don’t worry Champion. Your lessons will mostly consist of weapons training with the occasional lesson on military strategy.” Duncan sighed in relief, “Truthfully, the Inventor and Archmage will have the busiest schedules.”
Shawn chuckled, “Damn shame for them,” he said, “Hope they enjoy what little time they have left.”
Maria gave a nervous laugh while Ophelia sighed.
----------------------------------------
Shizuka sipped on the bitter willow tea, “This is disgusting,” she said corking the waterskin. She pressed herself into Nathaniel’s side, “How come those two idiots weren’t hungover?”
Nathaniel gently rubbed her arm, “Probably because their constitution stats are in the mid-sixties,” he said, “While yours is only ten.”
“Don’t remind me,” she said burying her face into his jacket. Her earlobes turned bright red, “At least we have the carriage to ourselves.”
Nathaniel’s stomach tightened, “Shizuka…I’m glad you feel comfortable with me,” he said trying not to make it awkward, “But don’t you think you’re being a bit…clingy?”
“I don’t understand,” she said tightening her grip.
“Shizuka, I’ll be here to support you, but not in the way you want,” Shizuka looked up at him with tears, “You’re sixteen while I’m twenty-seven. I think you should look for someone closer to your own age.”
Shizuka pushed away from him, “I understand,” she said. She looked at the floor for a minute. “Stop the carriage!” the carriage came to a stop, “Please leave.”
Nathaniel nodded, and opened the door, “I’m sorry, Shizuka,” he said stepping outside.
Nathaniel closed the door and stepped away from the carriage. The door to the front carriage opened. Ophelia and Maria came out.
“What happened?” Maria said, approaching him.
“I…told Shizuka that our relationship couldn’t be more than friends,” Nathaniel said.
“I see,” Ophelia said, “You can ride in the other carriage while we talk to her about it.” Nathaniel nodded and entered the first carriage.
“Trouble in paradise?” Duncan said with a laugh.
Nathaniel sighed and sat down, “I don’t want to talk about it.”
----------------------------------------
Nathaniel stared out the window. Once again, riding in the carriage with Duncan and Shawn.
“How long are you going to be in the doghouse?” Shawn said, “It’s been over a week.”
“Drop it,” Nathaniel said.
“Pardon me, my lords,” the driver called to them, “We’re close to Fort Cadarn. We should be there within the hour.”
“Thank god,” Nathaniel said with a heavy sigh.
Small farmhouses dotted the surrounding area with freshly tilled fields. The farmers were out sowing their fields for the upcoming year. The road smoothed out and they entered the town surrounding the fort. The simple wooden buildings with thatch roofs didn’t look structurally sound. The sound of grating metal came from in front of them and they passed by the stone walls of the fort. The carriage came to a stop, and the door opened.
They stepped out of the carriage and were greeted with a grand welcome. Soldiers stood in two columns from the carriages to the fort’s entrance. Three men and two women stood in front of the carriage. Ophelia approached a young man with brown hair and bright blue eyes.
“Crown prince Ollimier,” she said with a bow, “I brought the summoned heroes.”
The crown prince nodded, “Thank you,” he said turning to the heroes, “I am Ollimier Gilbrandt, and these are my advisors.” He gestured to the four people next to him, “As the commander of Fort Cadarn, I welcome you.” He gestured to the fort, “We have your accommodations ready. If you’ll follow me, we’ll get you into more comfortable attire.”
Ollimier led them into the fortress, the soldiers saluting them as they passed. The fort had no opulent decorations. Everything from the architecture to the furniture was made solely for functionality and simple comfort. A few portraits of the royal family decorated the walls, to remind the inhabitants of their lords, but otherwise the walls were completely barren. Even the windows were few and sparce.
“I thought a castle would look more…grand?” Shawn said looking disappointed at the décor.
“I’m sorry for disappointing you,” Ollimier said, “But since this fort is constantly under threat of attack, we keep it clear of flammable materials. Also, it gives us more room to store the citizens outside.”
“Makes sense,” Nathaniel said.
“I’m glad you understand…Inventor, correct?” Ollimier said looking over his shoulder. Nathaniel nodded, “I look forward to seeing what you create.”
“I’ll do my best, your highness,”
Ollimier led them into a large fitting room with two rooms on either side, “The ladies will find their new clothes in the right room, the men on the left,” he said, “Afterwards your attendants will show you to your rooms to rest and prepare you for tomorrow.”
Nathaniel and the other men entered the left room. In the room were three individual baskets, and on the other end of the room were two mannequins wearing armor next to a table filled with weapons and tools. Nathaniel approached the basket marked “Inventor” and picked up a simple white shirt with thick brown leather pants and a simple leather belt. There were a set of cloth undergarments at the bottom of the basket. Nathaniel changed into his new attire and looked himself over in the mirror.
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Besides the clothes being made from higher quality material, he looked no different from any of the locals he saw on the street. However, he could see in the reflection that both Duncan and Shawn were wearing clothes closer to the nobility. They both wore thick velvet pants and doublets of vibrant colors with an exquisite black leather belt with a golden buckle. Nathaniel looked himself over once more before stepping over to the table.
Nathaniel didn’t bother looking at the armor as it was clear it wasn’t for him. On the table sat a pristine arming sword in a gilded scabbard next to a dagger. A finely crafted yew bow sat on the table alongside a quiver full of arrows and two daggers. Lastly, a thick leather apron with an organized set of tools which consisted of tongs, files, scissors, and a hammer. Nathaniel put on the apron and wrapped the tools in their leather case before putting them in the apron pocket.
“You look like a real hero,” Duncan burst out laughing as his attendant helped him in his armor. Shawn was laughing alongside him.
Nathaniel ignored them and left the room. Ophelia and Ollimier turned to him.
“You look wonderful,” Ophelia said with a smile.
“Really?” Nathaniel looked himself over.
“I apologize if you don't like your clothing,” Ollimier said, “Seeing as you’re the first of your class, we didn’t know what to make you. So, our seamsters decided to make your clothes like those of other crafters.”
“I understand,” Nathaniel said, “I doubt I’ll be leaving the fort much anyways.”
The door to the other room opened.
“How do I look?” Maria said, stepping out wearing a slim robe that showed off her legs and cleavage. A white veil draped over her head.
“You look quite lovely,” Ollimier said. Maria blushed, looking away.
“Thank you,” Maria said, “Ophelia…could you come here?”
Maria whispered into Ophelia’s ear. “I’m sorry Saint, but I’ve never heard of such a thing,” she said, “And I doubt that the seamsters or tailors could make it.” She turned to Nathaniel with a sparkle in her eye, “But, perhaps the Inventor could.”
“No, No, I’ll deal with it!” Maria said, covering her chest and walking back into the room.
“What was that about?” Ollimier said.
Ophelia gave him a polite smile, “Nothing that concerns you.”
Duncan and Shawn entered the room. Duncan wearing a white breastplate, bracers, greave, and pauldrons with his sword strapped around his waist. Shawn wore a sleeveless dark green brigandine with his bow strapped to his back and quiver on his waist.
“You both look nice,” Ophelia said with a polite smile, “But, you don’t need to wear your armor unless you’re training.”
“We know,” Shawn said flexing.
“We couldn’t wait to try it on,” Duncan said flexed too.
Ollimier started laughing, “I know the feeling,” he said, “Nothing feels as good as trying that first set of armor.”
“Shame you won’t know that feeling Light.” Duncan said.
Maria and Shizuka stepped out of the other room. Maria wore a cloak that covered her upper body. Shizuka wore a white robe with a red skirt that ended mid-thigh. A golden circlet rested on her head, and she carried a wooden staff with a golden topper. Her leather sandals were strapped up to her mid-calf.
“You look nice,” Nathaniel said, but Shizuka quickly turned away.
Ophelia whispered to him, “Give her a bit more time,”
“I hope you all enjoy your new attire,” Ollimier said, “But, feel free to call on the tailors if you would like something changed, or want any new outfits.” He gestured to the door, “Your attendants are waiting outside ready to take you to your rooms. I apologize that I can’t give you a more celebratory welcome, but you’ll need to start training as soon as possible, and I would like for you all to be well rested.”
“I feel the same as the prince,” Ophelia said, “I’ll be bringing you your training schedules later today,” She turned to Duncan and Shawn, “Please take your time here seriously. As heroes, your skills will increase at a faster rate than the average individual. The next six months will be crucial in getting your levels up.” The heroes nodded.
Nathaniel stepped out of the room and approached Helmer, who gave him a polite smile as he led him down the hall. Nathaniel quickly glimpsed the other attendants bow and address their hero before taking them to their room. Nathaniel noticed that Helmer’s shoulders were hitched. He activated his [Intuition] and [Stressed] appeared over Helmer’s head. It must be hard serving a hero.
Helmer led him to a room that was smaller than the one in the castle, but still comfortable. A single bed sat in the far-left corner of the room with a small side table and a dresser at the foot of the bed along the same wall. A desk and chair sat in the adjacent corner on the right side next to the door with two chairs sitting in front of a fireplace along the back wall. A door to the right led to a small bathroom.
“What would you like for supper?” Helmer said, “Keep in mind that the chef’s might not have the time for more extravagant meals.”
“A sandwich will do,” Nathaniel said, “And water.”
“I shall see to it at once.” Helmer quickly stepped out.
Nathaniel walked over to the desk. A quill sat in its stand next to a pot of sand and a well of ink. A leather bound journal also sat on the desk, its pages empty. I can use this to take notes. He found more writing utensils waiting for use but decided to hold off until tomorrow. Nathaniel walked over to the dresser and set his tools down on top of it, and neatly folded his apron next to the tools. He checked the drawers and found them full of clothes like the ones he was wearing. Nathaniel couldn’t find anything he was missing.
Nathaniel sat down in one of the chairs and let himself relax, his eyes falling shut. A knock at the door. Helmer came in bring his food. Nathaniel took the plate from him.
“If you’ll excuse me sir,” Helmer said giving him a strained smile and rubbing his hands together, “But I’ve been given duties I need to tend to, since the fort is short on staff. I’ll only be able to serve you in the morning and evening. I’m sorry.”
[Lie] appeared above Helmer’s head, “I understand Helmer,” Nathaniel said, “Don’t let me keep you.”
“Thank you,” Helmer said quickly leaving.
Nathaniel took a bite of his sandwich. He couldn’t get Helmer’s lie out of his head as he chewed. Only one thought came to mind. Looks like he doesn’t want to serve me. Nathaniel took another bite. I should see if I can release him from service. He continued eating and eventually set the empty plate onto the side table. Nathaniel sipped his water when a knock came at the door.
“Come in.” Ophelia entered. She looked around and pouted, [Distressed]. “Is something wrong?” Nathaniel said.
“No,” Ophelia said trying to smile, “Nothing wrong at all.” [Lie]
“Take a seat then,” Nathaniel said gesturing to the other seat.
Ophelia sat down and handed him a piece of paper, “Here is you schedule,” she said.
Nathaniel stared in shock as he read, “Smithing tomorrow. Alchemy the day after. Leatherworking, masonry, carpentry, arcane studies, and…general studies? This is a full pretty full schedule.”
“I understand,” Ophelia said, “But seeing as how your rank allows you specialize in every crafting skill, you have a lot of skills to learn, and there are a lot of crafting skills,” she saw Nathaniel’s nervous smile, “But don’t worry, you’ll have a free day at the end of the week.”
“I’ll do my best,” Nathaniel said, “Truthfully, I’m looking forward to seeing what I can make.”
“So am I,” Ophelia gave him a bright smile, “I couldn’t even begin to describe what I saw in my vision, but it was truly awe inspiring.”
“Is this the vision that knocked you out?”
Ophelia laughed nervously, “It was,” she said looking at her hands, “Sometimes [Fate Weaver] is more of a curse than a blessing.”
“How so?” Nathaniel said leaning close to her.
“[Fate Weaver] actually hurts me,” she said, “If I use it too many times or try to make a drastic change, I’ll lose levels,” She looked at him with a bright smile, “But five levels are a reasonable price for victory.”
“You lost skill levels?”
Ophelia laughed, “Not skill levels, class levels,” she said. Nathaniel opened his menu.
[Class: Inventor Lv. 1]
“I’m level one,” he said, “What level are you?”
“Currently, fifteen,” Ophelia said.
Nathaniel scratched his chin, “So you were level twenty. How easy will it be to get those levels back?”
“Pretty difficult,” she said, “You gain levels when you hit a certain skill level threshold. For example, you’ll get to level two when you have one skill get to level five, then hit level three when one skill is level ten or two level five skill.”
“How many class levels are there?” Nathaniel said trying to do the math. Level four needs fifteen accumulated skill levels.
“There’s one hundred class level,” she said, “But many skills have around two hundred levels, but it takes more experience to level skills to higher levels.”
“That doesn’t add up,” Nathaniel said, “I would need to accumulate fifty levels in skills just to hit level ten, which would mean that you’d only get to levels twenty or thirty by maxing one skill?”
“That’s why it is important to learn as many skills as possible,” Ophelia said, “But without boons that boost experience, it becomes difficult to level up skills. So, you’re right, most people max out in the mid-twenties. Only five people reached level one hundred and they’re all heroes.”
“So, I’ll level up faster by focusing on crafting skills,” Nathaniel said with a smile, “But I’m glad I can learn other skills, even if it’ll take longer to level.”
“I’m glad you’re excited,” Ophelia said standing up, “I’ll let you get some rest for tomorrow. Good night.”
“Good night,” Nathaniel said.
Ophelia moved through the halls of the fort. The servants bowed as she passed, but she didn’t acknowledge any of them. She was angry. She came to a set of double doors and knocked on the door and stepped in before getting permission.
Prince Ollimier sat at his desk with his four advisors standing around him. Ophelia stared at the one man filling the prince’s cup with tea.
“Shouldn’t you be attending to the Inventor, Helmer?” she said, staring him down.
“I-I was,” Helmer said, “But master Light said he wanted me to help around the fort instead of attending to him.”
“I see,” Ophelia said stepping closer to the desk, “I’ve finished speaking with the heroes. They’re ready for tomorrow.”
Ollimier folded his hands and smiled, “Excellent,” he said, “We’ll need the heroes ready for the counter offensive.”
“Why isn’t the Inventor housed with the other heroes?”
“Because he’s not a hero.” The large general said, crossing his arms.
“He is!” Ophelia said, “I saw it!”
“I’m sorry lady Ophelia, but I find that hard to believe,” the elderly woman said, “Perhaps you misremember from the effects of [Fate Weaver].”
Ophelia looked Ollimier in the eye, “I know what I saw,” she said, “Of all the heroes, Nathaniel will be the most important.”
“I’m sorry lady Ophelia,” Ollimier said standing up, “But you’re asking me to believe that a crafter will be more instrumental than a fighter. That’s something I can’t do.”
“So, you’re throwing him away?”
“No,” Ollimier said, “But I need to see some results from him first.”
“Fine,” Ophelia said glaring, “I’ll see to it that the Inventor gets those results.”
“Your duty is to all the heroes,” the well-groomed advisor said, “And frankly, the other four need your attention more than the Inventor.” He straightened his glasses, “If the Inventor is as skilled as you say, then he shouldn’t need you.”
Ophelia’s head started hurting, “So you’re saying that the other heroes are incompetent?” she said with a growl.
“Enough!” Ollimier said getting everyone’s attention, “Lady Ophelia will give her assistance to all the heroes equally.” He matched Ophelia’s stare, “And if the Inventor proves himself, we will apologize and make it right. Does that work for you?”
“Very well,” Ophelia said, bowing, “Please excuse me, your highness.” She slammed the door behind her.