《World of vice and virtue》


 Prologue

    Smoke filled the sky as it rose from the burning city below. The crumbling of stone and falling towers echoed through the air. A group of riders hurriedly made their way towards the city, their desperation evident in their fast-paced gallop. Amidst the chaos, a commanding voice broke through the howling wind.


    "Gilpin, stay back and prepare a teleportation circle. Garick and Drake, ride with me. The rest of you, split into groups and search for any survivors. Bring them back to Gilpin to be sent to Grifden for medical aid. And be cautious, we have no idea who or what caused this devastation."


    The speaker, a thin man who wasn''t built for combat, led the group at the front. His gaze fixed on the burning city, his heart pounding in his chest. With closed eyes, he took a deep breath to steady his nerves. As he opened his eyes, he led his two companions through the main gate. The remaining members of the group dispersed, scouring the side streets and alleyways in search of any signs of life. Soon, only the man and his two closest companions remained.


    "Warren, what could have caused all this?" The speaker''s companion, a large lizardfolk brute, questioned. He rode on a brown stallion, his usually green scales reflecting the orange glow of the fire.


    "I don''t know, Garrick. The message spell I received from my brother mentioned an attack and the need for help, but it was disrupted before he could provide more details. Drake, can your talents pick up anything?" Warren, still gazing ahead at the burning city, turned to his centaur companion.


    "Sorry, Warren. My talents aren''t picking up anything. At my silver rank, it''s rare for an enemy to be able to conceal themselves completely. If they''re still here, they must either be incredibly powerful or wealthy. Either way, it''s not good news. I didn''t spot any signs of large armies, so we may be dealing with a small, well-equipped group or a dangerous individual."


    Warren frowned. It had only been a day since he received the plea for help. There weren''t many groups capable of orchestrating such destruction in such a short span of time. The thought of the empire crossed his mind, as they had been moving troops along the border. However, Drake''s observations ruled out the presence of a large military force. Could it have been a bandit raid? Unlikely, as few mercenary groups possessed the resources to launch such an attack. Whoever was responsible was dangerous, and Warren could only hope they had already fled.


    "We need to find my brother and his son. He''ll have more information about the situation and who we''re dealing with. Let''s start by searching the manor. If my brother is anywhere, that''s where he''ll be. It shouldn''t be much farther." Warren spoke calmly, attempting to conceal the tremor in his voice.


    A few more minutes of riding brought the manor into view. The good news was that the manor seemed to be less engulfed in flames compared to the rest of the city. The bad news was that two-thirds of it still burned relentlessly. As they rode closer, they continued to scan their surroundings, alert for any signs of survivors or potential danger. The deeper they ventured into the city, the more devastation they witnessed. It was evident that the source of the catastrophe originated closer to the city center. Their horses trudged through layers of ash that coated the streets, making it difficult to breathe. Time was of the essence - Warren needed to act swiftly to save as many lives as possible. He couldn''t bear the thought of becoming another helpless victim, unable to rescue anyone. As they neared the keep, Warren''s guilt intensified. As a member of the noble family that ruled over these lands, he felt responsible for the evacuation of the citizens. But guilt was a burden he would have to bear. A man who couldn''t protect his family was no man at all. Suddenly, the grinding of stone snapped Warren out of his thoughts. He turned his head quickly towards the source, his eyes widening in surprise as a nearby building''s wall crumbled, threatening to fall upon them.


    "Garrick, watch out!" Warren''s voice cracked like a whip as he shouted the warning.


    The lizardfolk looked up, raising his arm, which emitted a faint glow. With a single blow, he deflected the large stones hurtling towards him.


    "Warren, what''s the plan?" Garrick spoke up, brushing off bits of stone and dust from his arm. His tail lashed nervously as he kept a vigilant eye out for further falling debris.


    They were now close to the manor. Fifty feet, thirty feet, ten feet. Warren swung off his horse before it even had a chance to fully halt. He glanced back at his two companions as they stopped next to him. "I''ll go in alone. You two stay out here. Drake, make sure there aren''t any incoming threats. Garrick, if the building starts to come down on me, I need you to be ready to pull me free, do you understand?"


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    "Sir, I don''t think that''s a good idea. You''re not even an oath sworn. There''s no way you could survive a minute in that inferno." Warren looked at Drake as he spoke, giving him a pained smile.


    "Don''t worry about me. I didn''t come unprepared. I have a few healing potions and a few magical items that should be able to protect me for a small period of time, at the least. It''s more important that I have you out here and support in case there are any complications."


    His two companions nodded reluctantly. He knew that neither one of them was happy about him going in alone. He couldn''t blame them. They had been through so much together, it didn''t feel right leaving them behind. But he had to move fast, and they were just too bulky to move through the rubble quickly. Warren turned and looked at the decaying remains of his childhood home. He felt a surge of determination as he twisted one of the rings he wore. The ring''s magic slowly wrapped around him, reducing the heat from the fire and the sheer magical pressure. He took a deep breath and began to run into what could easily be his tomb. His footsteps were drowned out by the sound of flames all around him. He started through the corridors, dodging fallen debris and the reaching fire. He stopped at the rooms that he came across, looking and calling out, but no matter where he searched, he never got an answer. His thoughts began to grow more frantic. Where is everyone? I know there should be at least some staff around here. But no matter how many rooms he checked, he could never find anyone. He could hear the wood and stone structure creak as its own weight started to become too much for it. Soon, he was coming to a large set of double doors. He threw himself against them and then quickly found himself in the main hall of the Airnull Manor. His mind didn''t register what he was seeing for a moment. For a second, he thought he somehow ended up outside. Looking up above him, he could see the sky through a huge gaping hole in the roof. Wood and stone were littered across the floor. The floor was scarred by a cone of ash growing wider and wider until it rose up the adjacent wall. Through the center of the cone was a line that was completely clean of ash. At the start of the line, there was a pile of what seemed to be glowing hot metal. And there, sitting next to it, was a young boy crying. Warren was there in an instant, giving the room a once-over. The boy seemed to be unharmed except for his hands. They were blistered and burned as if he had tried to touch the metal. Fumbling at his belt, Warren quickly took off a potion vial and poured a bit of the healing liquid over the boy''s wounds. He watched as the flesh began to heal and eventually only left behind a bit of scarring. The boy looked up at him, tears still rolling from his eyes, as he tried to mumble out something. The boy couldn''t be any older than 8 or 9 years old. Warren didn''t want to overwhelm the child, but he didn''t have much choice. He was running out of time.


    "Boy, listen to me. This is very important. Do you know where Lord Iivrik is?" As he spoke, he tried to use what he thought was a soothing tone.


    The boy looked up at him and began to mumble something. Through the choked sobs and sniffles, one was able to make out a bit of what the boy was trying to say. It sounded almost as if the boy was saying that the Lord was his father and that he needed help. Warren sighed in the moment, the brown hair, the blue eyes, the cleft in his chin. The boy looked so much like him and yet still had traces of his mother.


    "What''s your name?" Warren already knew the answer, but he just had to be sure.


    "Lewin. Are you going to help my dad?"


    That confirmed it. The boy sitting in front of him had to be his nephew.


    "Yes, Lewin. I''m your uncle. I need you to tell me where your dad is so I can help him."


    The boy pointed behind him at something. Warren''s head turned. The scene was a chaotic nightmare, with flames devouring everything in their path. Warren''s heart pounded in his chest as his gaze fell upon the pile of glowing, nearly molten metal. His eyes widened in horror, realizing what it was. The devastation and loss hit him like a tidal wave, threatening to drown him in grief. He couldn''t bear to look, yet he couldn''t tear his eyes away.


    Desperation clawed at Warren''s soul as he forced himself to snap out of his daze. He turned to the child, his mind racing, searching for a way to protect him. With trembling hands, he removed the ring of protection from his finger, a symbol of his own safety, and placed it onto the boy''s small, outstretched hand. The scorching heat enveloped him instantly, searing his skin, but there was no time to hesitate. He had to get Lewin to safety.


    Gritting his teeth against the suffocating smoke, Warren scooped the boy up in his arms, cradling him as if his life depended on it. Every breath became a struggle, the air growing thinner with each passing second. Determination etched on his face, he desperately searched for the way out, his thoughts clouded by the chaos surrounding him.


    Finally, through the haze, Warren spotted the massive double doors he had entered from. With renewed purpose, he sprinted towards them, navigating through the collapsing corridors and dodging falling debris. The world around him seemed to crumble, as if the very walls were closing in. But he couldn''t let himself be consumed by fear. He had to save Lewin.


    Timbers crashed down perilously close, threatening to crush them both. Warren moved with a sense of urgency, no longer stopping to search for survivors or call out for help. His focus was solely on escape, on getting Lewin to safety. The journey out of the keep became a frantic race against time.


    Stumbling down stairs, darting around corners, Warren''s heart pounded in his chest with each step. The deafening sound of falling stones filled his ears, almost drowning out the distant shouts of his companions outside. He pushed himself to the limit, his body aching, but he couldn''t afford to slow down.


    Just when it felt like all hope was lost, Warren caught sight of his companions'' worried faces peering through the opening. Their desperate yells of encouragement barely reached his ears, but their presence fueled his determination. He sprinted towards them, the ground shaking beneath his feet as the world seemed to crumble around him.


    Stones rained down faster and faster, threatening to bury him alive. He was so close, just a few more steps. The air grew thick with anticipation, time slowing to a crawl. Warren''s heart pounded in his chest as he desperately fought against the collapsing world around him.


    And then, in a sickening moment of dread, everything went black. The weight of the falling stones crashed down upon him, crushing his hopes and dreams. The sound of crushing stone filled his ears, a haunting symphony of despair.


    The once vibrant city now lay in ruins, consumed by flames and chaos. Shapes moved through the wreckage, searching for any signs of life amidst the devastation. Two figures tirelessly dug through a pile of stones, their determination unwavering. And high above, on a towering pillar of stone, a man laughed cruelly, reveling in the destruction.

 Ch 1: Lewin

    It was a warm and sunny day, with a gentle breeze rustling through my hair as I reclined in the lush green grass. The melodious songs of birds filled the air, their colorful feathers catching the sunlight as they danced through the sky. The softness of the grass beneath me invited me to take a peaceful nap, while the scent of blooming wildflowers wafted through the air, adding a touch of sweet fragrance to the surroundings.


    "Lewin!"


    I let out a groan, reluctant to be disturbed from my moment of tranquility. I slowly cracked open one eye and glanced around. Neb, a tiny white griffin, was quickly searching for something presumably me. I debated with myself for a moment. Ignoring him would let me go back to my nap, but after a few seconds of thought, I decided against it and set up.


    "What''s the hurry, Neb? Can''t I enjoy a few moments of laziness?" I grumbled, rubbing the sleep from my eyes.


    Neb fluttered excitedly, his beak widening into a grin. "I''ve been looking everywhere for you! Your uncle sent me to fetch you."


    Letting out a dramatic sigh, I stretched my limbs and pulled blades of grass out of my hair. My sleep addled senses perking up a bit at the view before. From the grassy hillside, I could see the rolling landscape stretching out into the distance, dotted with vibrant wildflowers and ancient trees. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating a dappled pattern on the ground.


    "Alright, Neb. Give me a moment and I''ll go see what he wants."


    Neb''s smile widened, his wings flapping eagerly. "Your uncle said that if I bring you back within the hour, he''ll give me a silver coin!"


    I raised an eyebrow, That was a bit much for a simple passing of a message. Whatever it was Uncle probably weren¡¯t to see me as soon as possible. Without hesitation, I reached into my bag and tossed a small silver coin to Neb. The sunlight glinted off the coin as Neb caught it with wide eyes.


    "There you go, Neb. Now go tell my uncle I''ll be on my way shortly. And make sure not to buy too many sweets. Your mom wouldn¡¯t be happy with me if you got too fat to fly. "


    With a quick salute, Neb took off into the sky, his wings propelling him towards the castle. I sighed, realizing that I had just spent all the money I had brought with me. No snacks for me today, but perhaps a visit to the castle kitchen would be in order later. I picked up my bag, feeling the weight of the book within, and began walking back towards the city of Grifden.


    As I made my way through the peaceful path, surrounded by the harmonious sounds of nature, I couldn''t help but whistle a tune, adding my own spirit to the melody. The path was lined with tall, majestic trees, their branches reaching towards the sky. Sunlight streamed through the gaps in the foliage, casting a warm glow on the path ahead. The occasional rustle of small animals scurrying through the underbrush added to the symphony of nature.


    The time seemed to pass all too quickly, the city of Grifden came into view. Nestled amidst the grasslands and protected by hills and ridges; the city had grown quickly in the past few years, expanding from a small village to what it was today. From my vantage point, I could see the sprawling cityscape, the buildings made of a mix of wood and stone, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The city walls, still under construction, were beginning to take shape, their sturdy structure promising protection and security.


    I observed the bustling activity of people going about their daily lives, the sounds of haggling, cart wheels on stone streets, and the laughter of children filling the air. The vibrant market stalls lined the streets, displaying a colorful array of goods, from fresh produce to intricately crafted artisan wares. The aroma of freshly baked bread and aromatic spices wafted from the nearby food stalls, enticing passersby with their tempting scents.


    As I approached the city gates, I noticed two familiar figures engaged in a heated argument. Henry, the architect, with his burly physique and white beard, stood tall and imposing. Galen, the chief magical advisor, may have appeared older, but his sharp wit and knowledge made up for his aging appearance. Their voices echoed through the air as they passionately debated their differing opinions, their gestures animated and expressive.


    Trying to avoid being caught in the middle of their argument, I attempted to slip past unnoticed. But just as I thought I had succeeded, their voices grew louder and closer, making it clear that my stealthy escape would be harder than I thought.


    ¡° I told you, you crazy old twat that we need to lay the protective enchantments after the wall is finished so that it will be one cohesive hole.


    ¡°And I told you Overgrown ox that if we lay the enchantments as we go the wall will be ten times stronger.¡±


    A spark of the annoyance lit up in me. These two had always been at each other¡¯s throat even before my uncle commissioned them to build the wall. ever since then the fighting seem to have gotten ten times worse and no one in town could get a lick of sleep. I had almost made it past them through the main gate when my attempt at stealth was nearly foiled.


    ¡°Hello my Lord back already are you.¡± One of the guards at the mostly finished gate was waving me over. I quickly sprinted to the other side of the wall and pressed that back to it. After waiting a few seconds and not hearing any breaking of the fighting on the other side of the wall I relaxed. I looked over at the guard with a frown as he waved me over.


    ¡°Are you trying to get me caught up in all of that? In the next thirty minutes being forced to pick aside on whether a stone should be two inches to the left or two inches to the right.¡± I looked the guard up and down. He was giving me a sheepish grin. I couldn''t remember his name but I did recognize him.


    ¡°Sorry, my lord. You just surprised me by returning so soon. Normally when you go for your walks you''re not back till late.¡± He scratched the back of his head as he said this giving an apologetic grin for his near blunder. I sighed as I looked back at him my annoyance fading.


    ¡°No, it''s fine. I''m back early because my uncle wants to see me for some reason. I just don''t have any time to get caught up and all the drama over there.¡± I pointed my thumb over my shoulder toward the argument that was still going on. ¡°I swear if they put half as much effort into working as they do fighting they could have finished this entire project in the first day.


    The guard grinned showing his teeth. ¡°You''re telling me, my lord. At least you don''t have to stand out here and listen to him every day. Sometimes I wonder why I even need to be out here at all. With those two going at it every day any troublemakers steer clear of the area.


    We shared a quick laugh as I turned back to continue my walk. As I did I was struck once again by the simple beauty of my home. Sure it might not be as elegant or as masterfully made as some of the larger cities in Concordia but there was just something about it. Stone brick streets, wood and stone buildings.  It might not be much to some but it was still home to me. Moving deeper into the city I  walked onto the main Commerce Street. The sounds of vendors loudly shouting their wears while customers haggled for a more reasonable price played on my ears as I walked steadily forward. My eyes danced as I took in all the different colors and moving shapes of all the citizens in the market today. Many different shapes stood out in the crowd. True most of them were human but I could still make out the form of a few Wolfkin that stood about a head taller than most of the crowd. My eyes also caught a few glimpses of sunlight reflecting off scales as a few lizard folk made their way through the crowd. Easiest of all to see were the few griffins flapping their wings overhead as they carried baskets from merchant to merchant picking up their daily needs. I slipped quickly into the crowd the motion familiar to me. Dodge basket here, wait for a man in front of you to move, step over that person''s tail. I always seemed to lose myself when I was in a crowd. All the different shapes and bodies moving around always seem just to swallow me up and make me just another ordinary person without any responsibilities. I wouldn''t say it was relaxing like it was out in the forest. There was just too much movement.


    Soon enough I found myself leaving the crowd as I exited the main Market Street. Grifden castle wasn''t really a castle. Sure it had a few parapets and had servants quarters and a main hall but from my experience, it''s what most Lords would refer to as their summer getaway cottage. Now that didn''t mean it was a small building far from it. The tall towers stood 50 ft taller than any other buildings in town. It''s flags waving merrily is it stared benevolently down at the city below. I watched as a few grins flew in and out of some of the taller towers most likely delivering messages or bringing an important paper for my uncle to sign.


    It wasn''t long before I found myself at the main entrance. Green banners with golden trim decorated the hall.  They blended nicely with the mostly wood interior. A soft forest smell tickled my nose as I passed through the familiar halls. Servant bustled back and forth carrying sheets and other laundry, some held few plates and I was pretty sure that one was dusting the same few suits of armor that she was this morning when I left the castle.


    Now on its own it wasn¡¯t odd to see a few servants here and there cleaning or doing laundry but it was very unusual to see so many so busy all of a sudden. Usually, we only had a few on staff at a give him time. My uncle wasn''t known for throwing large parties like some other nobles did. For the most part he kept to himself and only interacted with other nobility when working on a business contract.


    ¡°Maybe this has something to do with why he called me back to the castle so early?¡± I mumbled as I climbed the staircase. I thought about asking one of the servants about it but thought better of it. No need to bother them when I would know soon enough.


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    As I reached the top of the staircase, I turned left to head towards my uncles study. Suddenly, as I rounded the corner, I nearly bumped into a large man. His imposing figure stopped abruptly, and he stared down at me. On either side of him stood two massive dogs. The one on the right seem to radiate heat as a red glow seem to emanate from deep within its chest. The other dog looked at me. It¡¯s eyes piercing and cold. It¡¯s blue fur seem to shimmer like frozen crystals. The man was adorned with several rings on his fingers. Each of them held gemstones that seem to have a faint glow. Looking up at his face, I was struck by how similar his cheekbones made him look to a bulldog. A flicker of memory stirred within me. After a brief moment of recognition, a name started to come to me. I think I went with my uncle to one of the parties that he had hosted. While my uncle wasn''t one for hosting parties, he certainly wasn''t one to turn them down. Typically, when he attended, he would bring either me or Aster. I think his name was Dogmile, or was it Dogman? Well, I knew it at least started with "dog" something. I could only remember that because I knew that whoever he was, his family owned one of the largest beasteries in the known world. He looked down at me, and his eyes narrowed for a second before opening, and he gave me a warm smile.


    "Ah, Lewin! It''s good to see you again. I think the last time I saw you, you were only up to my waist. You''ve grown so much since the last time I saw you," he remarked, his expression dimming a little as he paused, as if he was thinking about what he was going to say next. "You look so much like your father. Sure, you''re not as tall as him, but I''d say in a few years, you''d be the spitting image of him. I knew him back from the old days when we were both attending the Masterwork Academy. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was our third year, and we were entering the fighting tournament during the winter solstice festival. I can still hear the applause of the stadium as the battle went on. Oh, what a fight it was. Eventually, it was just me, two of my dogs, and one of my other teammates, and there standing alone was your father. For a minute, we thought we had him cornered. We gave him the option to surrender right there," Dogman stopped and gave out a short bark of a laugh. "Do you know what he said? He said, ''Why, it''s just starting to be a fair fight.'' Oh, that man, he fought like a beast. One moment we were patting ourselves on the backs for our victory, the next we were lying in the dirt," Dogman''s tone became wistful as he reminisced about the past. But slowly, the smile began to slip from his face again.


    "When I heard what had happened, I was up in arms. Everbloom had fallen, impossible. How was I the first to send troops and supplies?" The silence stretched on for a moment, and I didn''t know what to say. Old memories began to twist and rise, trying to come to the surface, but I pushed them down and ignored them. I always found a difficult thinking back to that night. And anytime someone brought up my father old fear would begin to try to claw its  way back up to the surface.


    I tried to come up with a response, but before I could, he spoke again.


    ¡° Well it was wonderful seeing you again Lewin. But I¡¯ve got to go you know how busy life can be.¡±  Finished speaking he stopped past me, putting his hand on my shoulder for a second. The two dogs trail behind him.


    I was left for a moment. had you really just had a whole conversation basically with himself? I shook my head, casting the thoughts out and turned to continue my way to my uncle. It wasn¡¯t long before I made my way to the end of the hall and took another flight of stairs. before I knew it, I¡¯d already made it to.


    The study door creaked open as I entered, revealing a room bathed in warm, natural light. Sunbeams danced through the windows, casting intricate patterns on the walls. The air was filled with the scent of old books and the faint aroma of ink. Filing cabinets and stacks of papers lined the room, a testament to my uncle''s meticulous nature. But what caught my attention was the ornate wooden desk that stood at the center, adorned with exquisite carvings of intertwining leaves and blooming flowers.


    Seated behind the desk in his wheelchair, my uncle looked up from his work, his eyes lighting up with joy as he saw me. His smile was radiant, capable of melting away any worry or sorrow. He beckoned me to come closer, his voice filled with warmth.


    "Ah, Lewn, my dear nephew. I apologize for interrupting your day off, but I have something important to discuss with you."


    Intrigued by his tone, I moved closer. There was an air of excitement surrounding my uncle, and I couldn''t help but feel a bit of anticipation.


    "Uncle, what is it?" I asked, curiosity bubbled over.


    With a twinkle in his eye, my uncle posed a question that caught me off guard.


    "Do you know what you want to do in life, Lewn? Have you thought about the path you wish to pursue?"


    For a moment, I was taken aback. The question seemed to hang in the air, begging for introspection. I had always assumed that my future lay in assisting my uncle with his merchant business or serving as an advisor to my cousin Aster, who was set to inherit the lordship. But my uncle''s question hinted at something different, something beyond the realm of familiarity.


    "I... I had always imagined myself supporting Aster and managing the land, Uncle. Besides that I haven¡¯t really given it much thought.," I replied, my voice tinged with uncertainty.


    My uncle chuckled, his laughter echoing through the study. It was a sound that filled the room with joy and reassurance.


    "Ah, dear Lewn, your dedication to our family is commendable. But I had something else in mind for you," he said, his eyes gleaming with a secret.


    My curiosity peaked, I leaned in closer, eager to hear his revelation.


    "I have recently sealed a contract with Lord Hounden, and the upfront costs alone would allow me to sponsor both you and Aster to attend the master work Academy to become adventures.," my uncle declared, his voice brimming with excitement.


    The words hung in the air, and my heart skipped a beat. Become an Adventure? The idea awakened a dormant flame within me, igniting a mix of exhilaration and trepidation. Images of heroic knights, powerful wizards, and intrepid explorers flooded my mind, evoking childhood tales and legends.


    My mind raced, torn between the security of the familiar and the allure of the unknown. how many times have I dreamed of this opportunity? How many nightmares had I had?


    I just stood there for a minute. Not knowing what to say the silence seemed to ripple and rive like a serpent ready to strike. My throat seem dry. I was finding it hard to find words.


    ¡°I¡­. I don¡¯t know.  It''s every kid''s dream to someday become an adventurer and have Legends and stories told about them but I don''t know if I can take those kinds of risks.¡±


    I don''t know if I can be a hero.


    The last was a whisper in my head. Because that''s what they were weren''t they? Heroes. Adventures traveled the land fighting monsters slaying evil helping those in need. How could that be me. Sure I received some basic training in how to use a sword but so did most nobles. I was strong for my age but nothing special. What part of me could possibly be a hero that they would write legends about.


    My uncle''s eyes turn sad for a moment. A soft expression replaced his grin. He slowly reached down and wield his chair out from behind the desk.


    ¡°Look at me Lwen.¡±


    I did. I saw the two stumps where his legs used to be. I saw how his back twisted in the wrong way. And I knew why his body was like this. Guilt flooded me and I looked down. Stones had crushed his legs and needed to be amputated, As he was pulling me from Everbloom Castle, ten years ago. His back was broken and twisted because he shielded me with his body. My uncle was a hero. And the part of me that thought that I could be a hero was scared, Because I knew what it cost to be one.


    Lwen listen to me. When I was young my father gave me and your father the choice of going to the Masterwork Academy. I decided to pursue a life as a merchant while your father chose to go to the academy. I know without making my choice or people would have suffered even more because I wouldn''t have been able to render them the sanctuary and aid that I have otherwise. But some days I wonder if I had gone to the academy when I still have my legs. Would I have had the strength to save more of our people. I see so much of your father in you and he was something special. If you don''t want to go and take a different path I will support you but I want to make sure you have the opportunity to have the strength that I didn''t.¡± As he finished his eyes almost pleaded with me. I could see the pain of years heavy on him. And I believed that he genuinely was trying to give me the chance to not make the same mistakes he did but yet I still wasn''t sure.


    "Uncle, I... I don''t know. I want to, but I don¡¯t know if that¡¯s me. ," I admitted.


    "I know just how you feel. I felt the same fear when my father gave me the choice. And I when I felt that fear I ran from it. I''ll tell you what, I''ll have you enrolled. The term doesn''t start for the next two months. If you decide to do something else, we can have you unenrolled, and I''ll support whatever you decide to do instead. If you change your mind, let me know."


    "Thank you, Uncle. I truly mean it," I said, giving him a smile.


    "Go ahead and think about it. I have paperwork to do, and you still have a day off to enjoy," he replied, the earlier light returning to his eyes as he smiled and waved me away.


    As I left the room, the weight of my decision hung heavy in the air. The castle corridors were dimly lit, casting long shadows on the walls. The sound of my footsteps echoed through the empty halls, matching the turmoil in my mind. I wandered aimlessly, lost in thought, as the afternoon sun slowly began to set, casting a warm golden glow through the stained glass windows.


    My stomach grumbled loudly, reminding me of the passing hours since I last ate. I made my way to the bustling kitchens, where the aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering soups filled the air. The cooks glanced at me curiously as I stumbled in, lost in my thoughts. I grabbed a chunk of cheese and a bit of dried meat, hastily assembling a makeshift meal. The flavors were lost to me, as my mind was consumed by the decision at hand.


    Lost in my own world, I continued to pace through the castle, murmuring to myself, oblivious to the strange looks from the staff I encountered. At one point, my distraction nearly led me to collide headfirst into a wall. I managed to halt my steps just in time, my heart pounding in my chest as I regained my bearings.


    It was then that Neb swooped over to me. His tiny wings flapped excitedly as he asked about my conversation with my uncle. I explained my dilemma, and his eyes widened with a mix of awe and admiration.


    "So you''re going to be an adventurer?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with boundless enthusiasm. He couldn''t contain his excitement and began to do little loops in the air, as if already envisioning the grand adventures we would embark on together. "That''s so cool! I''ve always wanted to be an adventurer."


    I couldn''t help but crack a smile at Neb''s infectious enthusiasm. "Well, I''m not sure if I''m going to. I haven''t decided..." I trailed off as he fluttered away, undoubtedly off to share the news with the other children, who would undoubtedly embellish the tale of Lewn the Great and Powerful.


    As evening fell, the castle came alive with the warm glow of candlelight. The grand dining hall was filled with laughter and chatter as the nobles and servants gathered for their evening meal. But for me, the food on my plate remained untouched as I continued to wrestle with my thoughts. The debate raged on in my mind, each argument battling against the other, until exhaustion finally took hold.


    When I finally rested my head against my pillow, the moon casting a soft glow through the window, a final thought of hope emerged. Could that be me, I wondered, my heart filled with a glimmer of possibility. Could I truly be a hero, an adventurer.

 Ch 2: Lewin

    My breath came out heavy as I ran, my hurried pace quickly carrying me over the cobblestone streets, each uneven stone echoing beneath my feet. The wind tugged at my hair, twisting and pulling it this way and that, sending strands flying like wild banners in a storm. Sunlight streamed down, illuminating the quaint village around me. Ivy-clad cottages stood shoulder to shoulder, their colorful facades bathed in warm hues of ochre and azure. I called out, my voice ragged from exertion.


    ¡°Aster, huff, huff, slow down!¡±


    Just ahead of me was a young man, his long blonde hair whipped by the wind just like mine. His long legs propelled him swiftly down the line of houses, while I struggled to keep up. He turned his head, calling back over his shoulder, his voice a vibrant echo against the backdrop of the bustling market square.


    ¡°Hurry up, Lewin, or we''re going to miss it!¡±


    I gritted my teeth in frustration for a moment before trying again. ¡°Aster, where are we even going?¡± I forced the words out in one breath, my lungs burning with the effort of dragging air in and out. I seriously hated running. First, my legs grew tired; then, a horrible cramp would sometimes seize my side. But by far the worst was the struggle to breathe. I could ignore the other two, but feeling like my lungs were about to erupt was something only a crazy person would enjoy. Kind of reminded me of the long-limbed freak a few paces ahead of me.


    ¡°Look, I already told you. Sarah said there was a bard playing in town today, and we should go. Is your memory already that bad? The great Lowen just turned 18 and is already old and decrepit, and losing his mind.¡± He chuckled at his own joke, the sound mingling with the distant laughter of children playing in the streets.


    ¡°No, that¡¯s not what I mean. I''m literally asking where we¡¯re going. And who is Sarah?¡± As my words reached him, he came to a sudden stop right in front of me. I barely managed to avoid tripping over him, my foot catching on the edge of a weathered stone.


    ¡°Sarah¡¯s one of the maids. Seriously, man, at the very least, you should know their names.¡± He gave me a disappointed look.


    Oh great, that¡¯s what he wanted to start with. Not the fact that he dragged me out of bed early this morning, yelling about how we were going to miss the show. He wants to poke fun at me for not knowing one of the maids'' names. My cousin sure has his priorities straight. Heck, I don¡¯t think he¡¯s even winded.


    ¡°I know their names,¡± I replied, my voice tinged with indignation.


    ¡°Oh really? Then who¡¯s Mary?¡± He flashed a mischievous grin, clearly thinking his little joke was clever.


    ¡°She¡¯s the one with the glasses and brown hair,¡± I said boldly, my confidence unwavering.


    My confidence wavered when he snorted and ran a hand through his blonde hair, the light catching the strands.


    ¡°Nope, wrong. You¡¯re thinking of Melanie. Mary¡¯s the one without glasses, has brown hair, and usually wears it in a long braid.¡± He gave me a smug look, as if this one point proved his argument.


    ¡°Look, I don¡¯t know all their names, but I know some of them. I know Janet.¡± I started to feel a bit annoyed, as frustration bubbled up inside me.


    ¡°Come on, it¡¯s Janice, and she quit like six months ago.¡± The laughter faded from his voice, replaced by a concerned look.


    ¡°Wait, really? Okay, now I feel a little bad. But you know what? That¡¯s not really important right now. You still haven¡¯t told me where we¡¯re actually going.¡± I said trying to change the subject from my own personal failings.


    ¡°Oh, well, I kind of forgot to ask.¡± He scratched the back of his head with a sheepish grin. This was one of the reasons I never knew what to make of my cousin. On one hand, he was brilliant, soaking up information like a sponge. On the other hand, if you dangled something shiny enough in front of him, he would chase it for hours.


    ¡°So you can remember the names of all the maids but not where we¡¯re going? If you weren¡¯t so smart, I¡¯d wonder if you had a brain at all.


    ¡°Oh, shut up. Look, we''ll just ask someone if they know where the Bard is,¡± he said, trying to mask his annoyance.


    ¡°Sure, Aster! Let''s ask one of the hundreds of lovely people that are all around us right now.¡± I opened my arms wide, gesturing dramatically at the empty streets. ¡°Yes, I''m sure they would be more than happy to tell us where to go.¡± My sarcasm dripped from my words as I looked around mockingly.


    ¡°Okay, fine! I get it! You don''t have to rub it in,¡± he retorted, a hint of irritation creeping into his voice. ¡°But look, we¡¯re already here. I¡¯m sure that if we just look around, we will find it eventually.¡± With that, Aster turned on his heel and began walking again, seemingly choosing his direction at random. I let out a small sigh and jogged to catch up.


    ¡°Aster, are you sure this isn¡¯t going to be like the time you heard a bakery was selling cakes for half off but forgot to ask which one?¡± I teased, chuckling to myself as I watched him turn a shade of red. It was amusing how the jokester could easily be embarrassed when the joke was on him.


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t you even start!¡± He shot me a glare over his shoulder, his pace unwavering as he continued his stoic march.


    ¡°Or what about the time¡ª¡±


    ¡°La la la! I¡¯m not listening!¡± he sang out, cupping his hands over his ears. For all his faults, at least I couldn¡¯t say things were ever boring when he was around. Just then, a thought struck me, and I almost thought I heard something.


    ¡°Hey, shut up for a second.¡± I stopped walking, my senses sharpening. We stood still for a moment, and I thought I could almost hear a faint strumming noise. ¡°Do you hear that? I think it¡¯s coming from the main plaza.¡±


    Aster paused, closing his eyes to listen intently. After a moment, he nodded and looked back at me. ¡°Yeah, I think you¡¯re right! Come on, let¡¯s go!¡± With that, he took off running again.


    ¡°Seriously, Aster? Do we really have to run?¡± My voice came out in a pleading tone.


    ¡°Only if you don¡¯t want to miss the show. Now come on!¡±


    ¡°Okay, fine,¡± I grumbled to myself. ¡°All right, cardio, my old nemesis, we meet again.¡±


    As we dashed through the main streets of Grifden, I couldn¡¯t help but notice how strange it felt to see the roads so empty. Normally, they would be bustling with people moving from stall to stall, filling the air with chatter and laughter. As we ran, I glanced around, taking in the unusual sight. The charming rooftops and sturdy stone walls whizzed past me, and I tried to time my breathing with the rhythmic clump-clump of my boots striking the cobblestones. Soon enough, the faint tendrils of music began to leak from the direction of the plaza, the notes dancing tantalizingly around my ears as if trying to lure me closer to their source. The closer we got, the more clearly I could hear the lively melody, until I could finally see the backs of the crowd. For a brief moment, I was stunned¡ªhalf the city seemed to have gathered here.


    While Griffin had several plazas adorned with lovely fountains and cozy sitting areas, the main plaza stood out because of the grand Wild Oak tree that grew majestically in the center. Its ancient branches stretched wide, providing a shady respite from the heat of the summer sun. Before I knew it, Aster and I had slipped into the bustling crowd. The music was unlike anything I had ever heard before¡ªa quick, bouncing tune that wove through the throngs of people. Most were clapping along, their faces lit with joy. I could feel a grin creeping onto my face; even after all the running, the music was so invigorating that I felt like I could sprint forever. Closer to the front, I could hear the laughter of children as they played, their delight mingling with the melody. The crowd parted slightly, allowing me to push forward and get closer to the enchanting sound.


    Just ahead, I spotted a group of people dancing. Unsurprisingly, Aster had already slipped into their midst, currently twirling a pretty blonde girl in his arms. That was one thing I always envied about my cousin¡ªhe never hesitated to be himself and take chances. If he wanted to dance with a girl, he would simply step up and ask her without a second thought. I watched them for a moment, my heart swelling with admiration, until I caught the eye of a girl in the crowd who was staring at me. She smiled brightly at me, brushing her long red hair out of her face. My stomach clenched tightly, and an internal debate raged within me about what to do next. Ultimately, I decided to take a page from Aster''s book. I took a deep breath, ready to approach her, but just as I was about to move, the last few notes of the song drifted away.


    ¡°Attention, my good citizens! I can''t express to you how wonderful it has been to entertain you this fine morning. In fact, I would love nothing more than to play on into the evening, but sadly, my time is growing short.¡± Though I couldn¡¯t see the speaker, his voice had a melodic quality, each word flowing rhythmically. I could feel the disappointment ripple through the crowd, and I couldn¡¯t blame them. But before anyone could beg for more, the voice returned. ¡°But don¡¯t worry, my friends! I have a little time left, and I think I should tell a story.¡±


    As he spoke, I began to weave my way through the crowd toward Aster, finally breaking free to scan the area for The Bard. I glanced over at Aster, noticing that his gaze was tilted slightly upward. Following his line of sight, I spotted what he was looking at. Perched high on one of the oak tree''s branches was a man dressed entirely in green, an instrument resting on his lap. I couldn¡¯t quite make out his features, but his hat sported a long feather sticking out of the top. Suddenly, the man stood up and leaped from the tree. Gasps erupted from the crowd as he plummeted nearly thirty feet through the air. We all held our breath, watching in suspense as he fell faster and faster, but just before he hit the ground, he rolled into a smooth landing and sprang to his feet. The crowd erupted in applause and laughter, their delight ringing out.


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    Once again, he began to speak, addressing the audience. ¡°Now, friends, before I leave, what story should I tell?¡± He looked down toward the front of the crowd, where a small group of children stared up at him with wide eyes, their fascination palpable. A few giggled at his antics, clearly enthralled.


    ¡°So, tell me, little ones, what sort of story should I share?¡±


    The children erupted with excitement, throwing out suggestions ranging from nursery rhymes to tales of mighty heroes slaying monsters. In the midst of the chaos, I even thought I heard one child ask about where babies come from. Through it all, he stood there with a warm smile, listening to their enthusiastic chatter. After a moment, he raised his hand, and surprisingly, the little rascals quieted down.


    ¡°Those are all excellent suggestions, my little friends, but it seems to me that you¡¯ve already heard all those stories.¡± A mischievous grin spread across his face, a twinkle in his eyes. He crouched down to one knee, bringing himself eye-level with the children. ¡°Why don¡¯t I tell you a story that you¡¯ve never heard before?¡±


    At that, the children erupted into cheers, clearly enchanted by the idea of a brand-new tale. With a joyful laugh, the Bard leaped up, spinning in the air as he walked away from the crowd, ready to spin a tale that would captivate every ear in the plaza.


    .¡°All right then, it has been decided! I shall weave for you a tale of such grandeur that it has never before graced your ears!¡± The crowd hung onto his every word, entranced. I couldn''t quite explain it, but an invisible force compelled me to lean in, captivated by the spell he cast with his voice. Each word seemed to wrap around us like a silken thread, pulling us closer. As I watched, the Bard delved into his pocket, retrieving an object I couldn''t see. Drawing in a deep breath, he unleashed a powerful breath into his palm, and a swirling dark mist began to rise, coiling ominously in the air around him. As the cloud thickened, he brandished a long stick from his belt, swirling it with deliberate grace. Images began to emerge from the mist, and I squinted, leaning forward to discern the scenes that unfolded before our eyes.


    Majestic mountains soared through the fog, their peaks piercing the heavens, while crystalline streams cascaded down, glistening like silver. All the while, The Bard¡¯s voice resonated through the air¡ªclear, commanding, and imbued with an ancient power that reverberated deep within my soul.


    ¡°Long ago, in an age of myth and magic, when the world was still young and vibrant, countless kingdoms flourished across these lands. Towering cities crowned the northern horizon, ancient forges blazed with the fires of creation to the west, while wandering caravans roamed the southern swamps, and vast, fertile fields stretched across the east. In this time, kingdoms rose and fell like fleeting shadows, and mighty heroes, still children, remained blissfully unaware of the legendary they were destined to forge.¡±


    As his words washed over the crowd like a tidal wave of inspiration, the bard¡¯s stick twirled and danced through the mist, drawing gasps of wonder from the onlookers. We beheld knights in resplendent armor galloping across verdant fields, blacksmiths wielding their hammers like thunder, forging steel into magnificent weapons. The enchantments cascaded before us, endlessly shifting and evolving at the bard¡¯s masterful command.


    ¡°In this storied time, there existed a man of unparalleled conviction and indomitable bravery. He was a pillar of strength, never shying away from toil, always ready to extend his hand to those in need. To those who knew him, he was revered as the Lord Barleycorn, a name that echoed with respect and admiration.¡±


    In an instant, a breathtaking visage materialized¡ªa fierce gaze, tempered by laughter and hardship, glimmered with a fire that could pierce the very heavens. A bushy beard framed a face that bore the marks of age. As I stared into those misty eyes, I felt a profound connection, as if they were beckoning me into the depths of his soul. My heart raced with excitement, the energy in the air crackling like a storm, as the crowd, too, was swept into the epic tale.


    ¡°One fateful day, the king of the realm proclaimed a decree, summoning all able-bodied men to muster at the Hammerfell Pass, the very threshold of their kingdom. For in this time of great upheaval and burgeoning wealth, dark forces conspired to plunder and ravage. With greed fueling their hearts, the kingdom¡¯s enemies unleashed a fearsome legion¡ª10,000 strong¡ªmarching forth with malevolent intent to conquer and devastate.¡±


    His words erupted with intensity, as countless warriors surged through the mist, their fists raised in defiance, swords gleaming with deadly purpose, their silent battle cries echoing like thunder in the distance.


    ¡°Thus, Lord Barleycorn mounted his noble steed and galloped forth, a beacon of hope racing against the encroaching darkness. He journeyed tirelessly for a day and a half, finally reaching the pass, only to discover that he was the first of his kin to arrive. Yet, to his dismay, he found himself not alone.¡±


    A collective gasp rippled through the crowd as an awe-inspiring image took form¡ªa lone figure stood resolute upon the path, framed by colossal mountains that kissed the sky. Before him loomed an army, a sea of swords and torches, ready to unleash chaos.


    ¡°It took three harrowing days for the kingdom¡¯s forces to rally and charge to the defense of their homeland. Three relentless days of galloping hooves and the cries of valor, desperate to arrive in time to safeguard all they held dear. When they finally burst forth into the pass, they were met with a sight that left them breathless. The enemy stood at an impasse, their ranks halted by a solitary figure in the midst of the path. What astonished them most was not the sight of a noble hero clad in resplendent armor or a learned sage wielding arcane might. ¡ªit was the indomitable spirit of Lord Barleycorn, a humble farmer, standing firm, resolute, a mere man against the tide of chaos.


    ¡°His voice, like rolling thunder, rose above the clamor of the approaching storm. ¡®I stand here not just for my own kin but for every soul who calls this land home! We will not cower in fear; we shall meet the darkness as one!¡¯ His call ignited a flame within the hearts of those who heard it, a rallying cry that surged through the soldiers like wildfire.


    ¡°In that moment, as if drawn by an unseen force, the army rallied together, emboldened by the courage of one man. They formed a united front, a wall of resolve, ready to face the encroaching shadows. Lord Barleycorn stood at their forefront, a beacon of hope amidst the tempest, and as the dark clouds loomed closer, he raised his pitchfork high, its tines glimmering with the light of their shared spirit.


    ¡°The clash of wills rang out like the roar of a mighty beast, echoing across the fields. The mountain pass became a chaotic tapestry of valor and determination, with bravery etched in every person¡¯s heart. Lord Barleycorn fought not with sword but with the strength of his convictions, inspiring those around him to become heroes in their own right. The wind howled, and the very air crackled with a sense of magic as the tides of fate shifted.


    ¡°And so, the tale of Lord Barleycorn spread far and wide, becoming a beacon of hope for generations to come, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, courage and unity could triumph over any foe. He serves as a reminder that not all heroes wear suits of armor and slay monsters.¡±


    As The Bard concluded his tale, the mist dissipated, leaving behind a lingering sense of awe. The crowd erupted into thunderous applause, their hearts ignited with inspiration. In that moment, we were all part of something grand, woven together by the threads of an epic story that would live on in our souls forever.


    As the sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the village, the Bard finished his performance amidst a cheerful crowd. The air was filled with laughter and the sweet scent of blooming flowers. With a playful grin, he began to gather his instruments, his fingers gliding over the strings of his lute.


    Suddenly, he struck a chord that resonated through the air, a captivating melody that seemed to awaken the very essence of magic hidden in the day. The strings of his lute shimmered with a radiant light, and vibrant threads of color began to emerge, weaving intricate patterns in the sunlight, dancing like ribbons caught in a gentle breeze.


    ¡°Dear friends,¡± the Bard called out, his voice ringing clear and bright, ¡°the stories we share are woven with the threads of our lives, binding us together in ways we cannot see. Today, as I take my leave, I offer you a gift¡ªa strand of our shared joy, our courage, and our dreams.¡±


    With a flourish, he plucked a final note, sending forth a cascade of sparkling strings that spiraled into the air. They glimmered like tiny rainbows, each representing a moment shared, a tale told, and a heart inspired. The villagers watched in awe as the strings floated gently through the crowd, wrapping around them in a brilliant embrace that radiated warmth and light.


    As the last notes faded, the Bard stepped back, his figure illuminated by the sunlight reflecting off the radiant tapestry above. He took a deep breath and, with a sweeping gesture, began to pull at the strands of light, unraveling the threads of magic woven throughout the day. The shimmering strings gradually formed a delicate arch that soared into the azure sky, connecting the earth to the sunlit heavens.


    ¡°Remember, dear friends,¡± he called out, his voice filled with sincerity, ¡°the stories we weave together will never fade. Carry them with you, and let them guide you through life¡¯s journey.¡±


    With that, he stepped onto the luminous arch, the strings beneath his feet glowing brighter with every step he took. As he ascended, the villagers below gasped in wonder, their hearts swelling with a mix of joy and longing. The Bard turned one last time, his eyes sparkling like the sun reflected on water, and with a final flourish of his hand, he released a shower of radiant strings that drifted gently onto the ground, each one a memory waiting to be cherished.


    In an instant, he disappeared into the bright blue sky, leaving behind a tapestry of shimmering strands and a crowd forever touched by his magic. The villagers stood in awe, their spirits intertwined with the Bard¡¯s enchanting departure, knowing that the stories of Lord Barleycorn and their own courage would continue to echo through their lives, woven into the very fabric of their days.


    ¡°Hey Lewin, I want you to meet someone,¡± Astor¡¯s voice broke through the haze of my thoughts, pulling me back to the bustling square. I blinked, momentarily disoriented, and glanced around, realizing that the crowd had thinned considerably, leaving behind only remnants of laughter and the sweet scent of spiced pastries. As I focused, I spotted Astor walking towards me, his confident stride holding the attention of two girls following closely in his wake.


    For a fleeting moment, I hesitated, not recognizing the two girls following him. Then it hit me: the first girl was the pretty blonde girl Astor had been twirling around the dance floor, her laughter ringing like bells. The second girl, with fiery red hair cascading down her shoulders, had intrigued me earlier with her keen gaze¡ªshe had been watching me intently just before the Bard spun his tale.


    Astor grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. ¡°These two lovely ladies are Rosie and Marigold. They were wondering if you¡¯d like to join us for a drink.¡± As they reached me, the girls performed a small curtsy, their movements graceful and endearing.


    ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you, my Lord,¡± they chimed in near unison, their voices sweet and lilting, almost melodic against the backdrop of the lively square. I felt a flush creep up my cheeks and stammered something about it being nice to meet them too, my attention quickly shifting back to Astor.


    ¡°I, um, I think I need to go speak with Uncle real fast,¡± I blurted, my heart racing for reasons I couldn¡¯t quite grasp. Before he could respond, I pivoted on my heel and dashed down the cobblestone street. My mind was a whirlwind, thoughts colliding like waves crashing against a rocky shore, drowning out the awareness of my dreaded foe known as cardio.


    I navigated through the now bustling streets, where stalls overflowed with vibrant fruits and colorful fabrics, the air alive with the chatter of merchants and townsfolk. It had only been a week since my uncle had proposed the idea of adventuring to me, and I still found myself teetering on the edge of indecision. Questions swirled in my head, battling between my desire for adventure and the comfort of the life I had always known.


    But the Bard¡¯s vivid tale lingered in my mind, igniting a spark deep within. I couldn¡¯t shake the image of that old man, resolute and defiant, staring down an army as if they were mere shadows. Was it truly that simple? Fear and excitement waged war inside me, yet I felt a growing conviction solidifying within. Why not become an adventurer? The allure of distant lands, the thrill of facing dreadful monsters, and the noble quest of saving people beckoned to me. Most importantly, the dream of being a hero¡ªwasn¡¯t that what I had always craved, hidden beneath layers of fear and doubt?


    I reached the keep in no time, pushing through the grand open doors with a rush of adrenaline, pausing only to catch my breath. Seriously, running was the worst. I scanned the room for any sign of a servants, and after a moment, I spotted a maid dusting an ornate portrait, the canvas depicting a regal figure in vibrant colors. I approached her, my voice slightly breathless as I inquired about my uncle¡¯s whereabouts. She offered directions with a warm smile, and I was off again, my heart pounding in my chest as I raced toward the castle gardens.


    As I drew closer, the air became infused with the alluring aromas of fresh herbs and spices, each scent mingling harmoniously. I slowed my pace, stepping into the garden, greeted by a riot of colors. Baskets of purple and blue flowers hung like jewels from trellises, while the whitestone paths contrasted beautifully against the lush greenery. I wandered through the blooming paradise, searching for my uncle, nearly colliding with a gardener engrossed in his task of watering the vibrant plants with a graceful watering can made of smooth stone.


    After a bit more wandering, I finally spotted my aunt gently pushing my uncle in his wheelchair along a path lined with blooming shrubs.


    ¡°Uncle, I¡¯ll do it!¡± I exclaimed, my voice cutting through the serene ambiance of the garden like a sudden breeze. The tranquility shattered momentarily as both my aunt and uncle turned to me, my words startling them. My aunt maneuvered the wheelchair gently so that my uncle could face me, his expression shifting from surprise to curiosity, a hint of a smile forming on his lips.


    ¡°What do you mean, Lewin?¡± he asked, a small grin beginning to curl at the corners of his mouth, his eyes alight with intrigue.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go to the academy, and I¡¯ll be an adventurer!¡± I declared, my voice imbued with a decisive edge, my resolve wavering slightly as I glanced at my aunt and uncle, their excitement palpable. My aunt¡¯s hand playfully patted my uncle¡¯s shoulder, and she whispered something that sounded like, ¡°Told you so.¡± My uncle¡¯s grin widened, showcasing the pride that flickered in his eyes.


    ¡°Good, I¡¯ll have the arrangements made right anyway,¡± he replied, his voice warm and encouraging, as though he were handing me the very key to my dreams. Yet, beneath that excitement, a knot of uncertainty tightened in my stomach.


    As I stood there, surrounded by the beauty of the garden and the warmth of family, I took a deep breath, trying to quell the uncertainty swirling within me. I wanted to believe in myself, to embrace this opportunity, but the path ahead felt daunting.


    ¡°I¡¯ll try my best,¡± I said to myself, a tentative smile breaking across my face. It wasn¡¯t a declaration of unwavering confidence, but rather a commitment to face whatever came my way.

 Ch 3: Timothy

    **Chapter Three**


    Timothy walked through the dimly lit halls of the old laboratory, the flickering candles casting wavering shadows that danced upon the stone walls. The air was thick with the scent of dust and aged parchment, a stale reminder of countless hours spent in this place. He inhaled deeply, finding a strange comfort in the familiar atmosphere. As he strolled, his thoughts drifted to the choices that had led him here, mingling with the echoes of his past.


    In many ways, Timothy was like any other dwarf: he had an immaculately groomed beard that flowed like dark silk and a sturdy build. However, what set him apart was his striking thinness, a stark contrast to the robust forms of his kin. Whispers of his human ancestry danced among the clans, tales of a lineage that had skipped generations. He often wondered how far back it went, but he knew it was there, lurking just beneath the surface. His grandfather had towered over most, standing six feet tall and as thick as a barn, while Timothy had inherited the opposite physique. In his youth, it had troubled him, especially when the other children mocked his stature. Yet, over time, he had come to accept himself, embracing his uniqueness.


    As the time came for him to choose his calling, he felt the weight of his differences. Lacking the raw strength and resilience of many of his kinsmen, he shied away from the physically demanding fields like mining and warrior roles. Instead, he chose a more scholarly path. The Ironwood Academy beckoned to him, offering a plethora of subjects, from mineral composition to the intricate wonders of Magi-Tech aerodynamics. Timothy relished every moment spent within the academy''s walls, losing himself in the pages of books and the thrill of discovery. But, as with all good things, his time there came to an abrupt end.


    Graduating with honors, he found himself faced with a myriad of internship opportunities. One late night, as he shuffled through papers in a cluttered study room, he stumbled upon the names of various scholars¡ªRedfist and Stonebeard among them¡ªwho were in search of eager students to aid in their groundbreaking experiments. Yet, as he read, a sense of disillusionment washed over him. Each project seemed lackluster, uninspired. They lived in the Empire, one of the most technologically advanced nations in the known world, and yet these so-called scholars devoted their time to trivial studies that even a bald mole rat could recognize as nonsense. Timothy''s frustration simmered, boiling over as he grappled with his desire for something greater.


    With the final year of his studies swiftly approaching its end, desperation gnawed at him, urging him to seek out any opportunity that might ignite his career. Then, amidst the disarray of his search, he discovered an old application crumpled and discarded in a waste bin. When he brought it to the receptionist, she let out a scoff, explaining that the office had been inundated with internship offers from what she described as a ¡°crackpot old troll¡± who wouldn¡¯t recognize genius if it bit him.


    ¡°Look, Timothy, you''re a smart kid. During your time here, you''ve proven to possess a mind that only comes around every few generations, and I¡¯d hate to see you waste your time on¡­ this,¡± she said, flicking the form disdainfully with a pin. ¡°I don¡¯t want to see you squander your potential.¡±


    Still, Timothy remained resolute. He took the application, determined to forge his own path. His thoughts were abruptly interrupted as he reached the end of the corridor, where he turned the heavy latch on the grand, oak door and stepped into the laboratory. Each time Timothy entered this room, he was struck by its chaotic beauty. Blueprints and intricate diagrams of various Magi-Tech designs adorned the walls, their edges curling slightly from age and neglect. Bookshelves overflowed with tomes, their spines cracked and faded, creating a labyrinth of knowledge waiting to be explored. In a word, Timothy would describe the laboratory as¡­ messy. Definitely messy.


    ¡°Professor, I¡¯m here! I have your breakfast,¡± Tim announced, carefully setting the plate of sizzling bacon and fluffy eggs on one of the cleaner patches of the cluttered table. The smell wafted through the air, mingling with the musty scent of old parchment and lingering smoke from the previous night¡¯s experiments. Timothy often wondered why the old man insisted on being called ¡°Professor.¡± He wasn¡¯t one by any conventional means, but over time, Timothy had come to accept it as one of the eccentricities that defined his mentor.


    A muffled shout erupted from the center of the room, where the old man''s magnum opus stood in all its chaotic glory. This project was the very reason that had drawn Tim to the laboratory in the first place. Before him loomed a grand stone archway, raised proudly on a sturdy platform. Solid granite spiraled upwards, forming majestic pillars, interspersed with flecks of silver, gold, and other precious metals, seemingly scattered at random. In the center of the arch, a blank space awaited a gemstone, its polished surface gleaming in the dim light.


    At that moment, a grimy face suddenly appeared around the arch, framed by the wildest beard Timothy had ever seen. It was as if the beard had a life of its own, a tangled mass that defied reason.


    ¡°Ah, Tim! There you are! Come here, come here! I have need of your skinny arms!¡± The old man¡¯s voice boomed with excitement as his head ducked back behind the arch.


    When Tim had first started working with Bendron Leadhead, he had no idea what to expect. Rumors around the academy spoke of the genius who had perhaps gone too far into the depths of his own mind. In his younger years, Bendron had been instrumental in the creation of the first prototypes for airships, now a common sight in the Empire. But somewhere along the way, he had veered off course, dedicating years to projects that seemed to lead nowhere. Yet, after spending several years in the old man¡¯s chaotic presence, Timothy could confidently say that he still had no clue what to make of him.


    Bendron was undeniably brilliant. In the last few years, Tim had absorbed more knowledge than he had in his entire life. The way the old man articulated complex theories and esoteric arcane concepts made the information resonate deeply within Tim¡¯s mind. Yet, on the other hand, Bendron had to be the messiest, most easily distracted person in the entire world. One moment, he would be furiously scribbling in a dusty journal about his latest arcane insight, and the next, he would be dashing around the room searching for a wrench, only to finally find it buried within his own beard half, if you can even call it that, an hour later.


    As Tim navigated around the arch, he took in the sight of the old man crouched on the floor, surrounded by an array of tools and scattered papers. Unlike any other dwarf he had encountered, Bendron possessed the absolute messiest beard that Timothy had ever had the misfortune of laying eyes on. It resembled the tentacles of an octopus, with every strand seemingly having a mind of its own, twisting and curling in every direction without any semblance of order.


    ¡°Sir, is your beard stuck in one of your devices again?¡± Tim sighed deeply, already imagining the next few hours spent untangling the chaos.


    ¡°No, what I need is this,¡± the old man replied, raising a small red gemstone high into the air, its surface shimmering like a drop of blood against the muted backdrop of the lab. ¡°I need you to take this and put it in there. Reach as far as you can until you feel a small tug. I would do it myself, but my hand just won¡¯t fit.¡± As he finished speaking, Tim noticed a small hole in the side of the arch, just large enough to accommodate the gemstone.


    Timothy took a deep breath, feeling the cool smoothness of the small red gemstone in his hand. With a casual glance around the cluttered laboratory, he approached the archway..


    As he gently placed the gemstone into the waiting hole, a soft hum began to resonate through the air, as if the archway was waking up from a long slumber. Timothy stepped back, a smile creeping onto his face as the stone clicked into place.


    ¡°Ah, yes! That¡¯s it, Tim! Can you feel the energy? It¡¯s alive!¡± Bendron¡¯s voice boomed with delight, drawing Timothy''s attention away from the archway.


    ¡°What does it do?¡± Timothy asked, his curiosity piqued as the archway began to shimmer faintly. Well, of course, Timothy, new bits and pieces, but Bendron never gone in to depth about it


    Bendron waddled over, his wild beard bouncing with every step. ¡°This, my dear boy, is the culmination of years of research! We¡¯re on the brink of something monumental!¡± He gestured dramatically at the archway, his hands making grand circles in the air. ¡°It¡¯s a gateway¡ªa portal, if you will¡ªbetween realms! Imagine being able to traverse worlds, to discover what lies beyond our own!¡±


    Timothy¡¯s eyes widened, a sense of wonder washing over him. ¡°That sounds amazing! But how does it work? What if it doesn¡¯t lead anywhere?¡±


    Bendron chuckled, the sound warm and inviting. ¡°Ah, that¡¯s part of the adventure, Tim! Not all who wander are lost! Besides, I¡¯ve taken every precaution.¡± He waved a hand dismissively, clearly more excited than concerned.


    Timothy felt a twinge of hesitation, but the thrill of exploration tugged at his heart. ¡°And what if something goes wrong?¡±


    Bendron placed a reassuring hand on Timothy¡¯s shoulder, his expression earnest. ¡°Life is full of uncertainties, my boy. You¡¯ve learned that well enough. But think of the knowledge we could gain! The realms we could explore! This could be your chance to change the course of your life¡ªour lives!¡±


    Feeling the spark ignite within him, Timothy nodded slowly, a smile breaking through. ¡°Alright, what do I need to do next?¡±


    ¡°Bendron¡¯s expression shifted to one of contemplation. ¡°There¡¯s one more piece we need to complete the arch. Not to worry, though! I have someone we¡¯ll meet with shortly to discuss acquiring it.¡± He waved a dismissive hand as if it were a minor errand amidst their grand adventure.


    Timothy raised an eyebrow, glancing at Bendron¡¯s wildly unkempt beard, which seemed to have taken on a life of its own. ¡°You know, maybe you should consider a trim before we meet anyone. That beard looks like it could use a little¡­ organization.¡±


    Bendron chuckled, completely unfazed. ¡°Ah, but it¡¯s part of my charm! The untamed look is all the rage among the scholarly elite!¡± He turned to head toward his breakfast, but just as he did, a wayward strand of his beard got caught on the edge of the table. In an instant, he stumbled forward, arms flailing. ¡°Whoa¡ª!¡±


    Timothy, having seen this spectacle unfold countless times before, sprang into action, effortlessly catching Bendron mid-fall like a seasoned hero. ¡°Gotcha!¡± he exclaimed, his heart racing as he steadied the old man.


    Bendron looked up, his eyes wide with surprise. ¡°Ah, yes! Just testing the gravitational pull of breakfast!¡± He chuckled, attempting to regain his composure while still clinging to Timothy¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Right,¡± Timothy replied, a serious note creeping into his voice. ¡°But seriously, professor you need to be more careful. This isn¡¯t just a game. You could really hurt yourself if you keep being so careless!¡±


    Bendron waved a hand dismissively, still grinning. ¡°Nonsense! A little chaos is good for the soul!¡±


    Timothy¡¯s frown deepened. ¡°I get that you enjoy the chaos, but you treat that so called bread of yours like a your personal tripping hazard. We need to be focused and prepared, not tripping over your own beard! Its not just you that you are putting at risk.¡±


    Bendron paused, his expression softening as he realized the weight of Timothy¡¯s words. ¡°Timothy, my dear boy,¡± he said gently, ¡°I appreciate your concern. But you must understand, the world is unpredictable. If we let every little thing throw us off, we¡¯ll never get anywhere!¡±


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    ¡°I understand that, but there¡¯s a difference between embracing unpredictability and being reckless,¡± Timothy replied, his voice firm. ¡°I just want to make sure that you¡¯re taking this seriously. We can¡¯t afford any slip-ups¡ªliterally.¡±


    Bendron nodded, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll try to be a bit more mindful. But promise me you won¡¯t try to give me a lecture every time I trip!¡±


    Timothy couldn¡¯t help but smile at the old man¡¯s spirit. ¡°Deal. Just promise to keep it under control!¡±


    With a chuckle, Bendron replied, ¡°Very well! Now, where¡¯s that bacon?¡±


    As they both laughed, Timothy felt a sense of relief wash over him. He knew Bendron¡¯s heart was in the right place, but he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that a little caution wouldn¡¯t hurt. With a playful nudge, Timothy led Bendron back to the table, ready to share breakfast, but his mind still lingered on the importance of staying focused as they prepared for the rest of the day.


    As they settled at the table, Bendron piled his plate high with crispy bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and golden-brown toast, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. He glanced over at Timothy, whose expression held a mix of pride and eagerness. ¡°So, my boy, what level are you in your researcher job now?¡±


    Timothy took a sip of his freshly squeezed juice, the bright citrus flavor invigorating him. ¡°I¡¯m at level 27, professor.¡±


    Bendron¡¯s eyes widened in delight, and he nodded appreciatively, a warm smile spreading across his face. ¡°Impressive! Just a few more levels to go! Have you thought about which subclass you¡¯ll choose when you hit level 30?¡±


    Timothy leaned back slightly in his chair, the wooden seat creaking softly under him as he pondered the possibilities. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about it. I¡¯m really interested in the magi tech subclass. It seems like it would open up a lot of exciting opportunities for our work.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely!¡± Bendron exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious as he gestured animatedly, nearly sending a piece of toast flying. ¡°The magi tech subclass is a fantastic choice! You¡¯ll gain access to skills that make the discovery of new inventions almost a guarantee! You know that''s the problem with youth these days, no imagination. They all go after the tried and true methods. In fact I recently got a letter from Dr Stonebeard bragging about how one of his students took the steam power subclass at level 30. Can you believe him. Bragging about that as if it''s some kind of accomplishment.¡±


    Timothy smiled, appreciating Bendron''s excitement. Timothy eyed the piece of toast that Bendron nearly sent flying as it slipped off his plate and onto the floor. He sighed internally and made a note to pick it up after breakfast.


    ¡°Yes, I can see how that would be beneficial. It would certainly help us upgrade our equipment and make experiments more efficient.¡± Timothy stop for a moment and looked around before continuing. ¡° I mean seriously Professor isn''t most of this stuff a little outdated.¡±


    ¡°As I keep telling you my dear boy we just don''t have the budget for the latest equipment. Ever since the university cut me off of my grants we''ve been forced to make do.¡± Bendron said with a huff. ¡°Uninspired brats.  Just because I''ve been working on this for 10 years doesn''t mean I haven''t made any progress.¡±


    ¡°Well professor, I''ll make sure to redo the whole  laboratory after a few more levels.¡±


    ¡°Thank you Timothy.What would I do without an assistant like you. Bendron said, his expression shifting to a warm smile.


    ¡°Probably choke yourself to death with your own beard.¡± Timothy mumbled as he munched on a piece of toast.


    As they finished breakfast, Bendron leaned back in his chair, gazing up at the ceiling as if searching for inspiration among the cobwebs and dust. ¡°You know, Timothy,¡± he began, his voice taking on a reflective tone. ¡°When I hit level 30, it was a turning point in my life. I had so many dreams, so many possibilities laid out before me.¡±


    Timothy raised an eyebrow, intrigued. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Bendron chuckled softly, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. ¡°I chose the Gemstone Analyst subclass, thinking it would be my ticket to greatness. They were very few notable records on the subclass and none of my peers seem to know anything about it either. I thought I could unlock A new field of science that never been studied before. But in hindsight, I realize I may have limited myself.¡±


    Timothy leaned forward, eager to hear more. ¡°What do you mean by that? Wasn¡¯t it a useful subclass?¡±


    ¡°Oh, it certainly was,¡± Bendron replied, his eyes twinkling with the memories of his past. ¡°I became adept at analyzing gemstones, enhancing their magical properties, and using them in my experiments. It was a fascinating journey, and I learned a great deal. Here let me illustrate for you.¡± As he spoke Bendron reached into his pocket and pulled out a small blue crystal. ¡° Now because of my skills I can tell you the exact quantity of mana that this Stone Is currently holding in how much more it can take before it cracks.


    Bendron stopped talking for a moment. He stared down at the gemstone that he held in his palm raising a finger he swelled it around as little tendrils of mana leaked from his finger and into the stone. The crystal seemed to drink in the strands of Magic as a blue light began to shine from within after a few more seconds the stone began to levitate about an inch over his palm.


    Timothy stared fascinated. Of course Timothy could use magic  as well. It was one of the required courses at Ironwood University. But to see a enchantment like levitation plays so easily in a gemstone was remarkable.


    ¡°That''s an incredible professor.¡± Timothy said, all creeping into his voice.


    ¡°Bah, Nothing but a  parlor trick.¡± Bendron continued grumpily , ¡°It''s a waste of skills.  if I had taken another  subclass I would have been able to learn how to do the same in a few months of practice.¡± As Bendron spoke he tossed the little Stone over his shoulder. The stone made of slight clattering sound as it bounced on the stone floor. ¡°I often found myself wishing I had chosen differently. Yes, I could play with my rocks all day, but I was not creating anything truly groundbreaking. I was stuck in a niche that, while valuable, didn¡¯t allow me to innovate in the ways I had hoped. My work became... methodical. I realized too late that my true passion lay somewhere else. I could have been at the forefront of pioneering inventions, transforming the very nature of our understanding of both realms.¡±


    ¡°But you still made a significant impact, Professor. You helped create airships and contributed to the field in many ways.¡± Timothy jumped in hoping to cut the professor out of his mood.


    ¡°True, but imagine if I had made a different choice instead of confining myself to my gemstones,¡± Bendron lamented, his expression reflective. ¡°I could have been a part of something bigger, crafting devices that could change lives, crossing the very boundaries of possibility.¡±


    Timothy felt a pang of sympathy for the old man. ¡°As they finished their breakfast, Bendron¡¯s gaze drifted back to the archway, a wistful expression painting his features. ¡°You know, Timothy, hitting level 30 was one of the most exhilarating moments of my life. But it wasn''t until I hit Level 50 that I found my true calling.


    Timothy nodded. His eyes wandered over to the arch standing silently in the center of the laboratory. Timothy could feel the power coming from it. The magic seemed to thrum through the room tickling the back of his mind. Sometimes he would lose himself staring at the arch as if something about it called to him. Staring through the pillars it was almost as if he could see¡­


    ¡°I just want you to promise me one thing.¡± Bendron''s voice Cut through Timothy''s thoughts causing him to shake his head and look back at his mentor.


    ¡°What¡¯s that Professor?¡± Timothy asked, intrigued.


    ¡°Promise me you won¡¯t let the fear of The unknown hold you back. I see so much of myself in you. No matter what opportunities you get, don''t be scared to reach out and take what you want.¡± Bendron said.


    Before Timothy could respond, a sudden commotion erupted from the back of the laboratory. The heavy wooden door swung open with a creak, and a figure stepped inside¡ªa tall, lanky man with an unsettling demeanor that sent a shiver down Timothy¡¯s spine. He moved with an odd gait, as if he were both too rigid and too loose at the same time, resembling a marionette with tangled strings.


    ¡°Ah, I see you¡¯re busy,¡± the man said, his voice smooth yet somehow unnerving. ¡°I hope I¡¯m not interrupting anything¡­ important.¡±


    Bendron straightened in his chair, a flicker of recognition crossing his features. ¡°Ah, Roderick! Just the man I was hoping to see! Come in, come in!¡±


    Timothy¡¯s unease deepened as Roderick stepped further into the room, his eyes darting around at the chaotic surroundings with an unsettling curiosity. There was something about his smile¡ªtoo wide, too forced¡ªthat made Timothy instinctively take a step back.


    Timothy felt a knot tighten in his stomach. Roderick wasn¡¯t the safes person to associate with. The last time he had assisted them, things had gone awry, and Timothy wasn¡¯t eager to revisit those moments.


    ¡°Hello, Bendron,¡± Roderick replied, his smile wide but somehow devoid of warmth, revealing teeth that appeared just a bit too sharp. As he entered the room, he moved with an unsettling grace, his head tilting at odd angles, as if he were constantly assessing the space around him. .


    Bendron spoke losing his previous excitement now in a flat tone that conveyed only business. ¡° We need you to secure us a silver rank dungeon core. And I must stress¡ªno one is to get hurt this time. We can¡¯t afford any more¡­ incidents.¡±


    Roderick¡¯s smile faltered for a split second, but he quickly regained his composure. ¡°Oh, come now, Bendron. The last incident was hardly my fault! I had the dragon scales you requested, but it¡¯s not my fault the dragon mate or should I say widow decided to burn a city in retaliation.¡± His tone was light, but there was an edge beneath it that made Timothy¡¯s skin crawl.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just keep things calm this time, shall we?¡± Bendron replied, his voice firm but tinged with an underlying worry. ¡°I don¡¯t want to see any more townsfolk injured because of our endeavors.¡±


    ¡°Of course, of course,¡± Roderick said, waving a dismissive hand. ¡°But you must understand, these things happen in this line of work. You can¡¯t expect all creatures to be as reasonable as we are.¡± He chuckled, but the sound was unsettling, like a crow cawing in the dead of night.


    Timothy shifted uneasily, glancing between the two men. ¡°Are you sure we should be relying on Roderick again? I mean, after everything that happened last time¡­¡±


    Bendron cut him off, his voice resolute. ¡°There¡¯s no one else who can obtain the core as quickly as he can. Trust me, Timothy. Roderick has his uses, even if they come at a cost.¡±


    Roderick grinned, his teeth glinting like polished obsidian. ¡°Ah, you see? It¡¯s all about perspective! Now, about the payment¡­¡± He gestured, and Bendron reached beneath a cluttered table, retrieving a small box that seemed to be shifting and twitching.


    Timothy¡¯s eyes widened as he looked at the box, his heart racing. ¡°What¡¯s in there?¡± he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°There are some things you don¡¯t want to know.,¡± Bendron replied, his tone calm, but Timothy could sense the tension in the room. ¡°This should cover it, Roderick. Just remember to be careful with it.¡±


    Roderick¡¯s eyes gleamed with excitement as he took the box, the twitching becoming more pronounced. ¡°Oh, I do love a good surprise. You really shouldn¡¯t worry so much, Timothy. It¡¯s all part of the experience!¡±


    Timothy took a step back, his instincts screaming at him to reconsider their trust in Roderick. ¡°This isn¡¯t right, Bendron. We can¡¯t keep involving him in our work. What if something else goes wrong?¡±


    Bendron placed a reassuring hand on Timothy¡¯s shoulder, his expression softening. ¡°I understand your concerns, but we have no choice. Roderick is the only one that is willing to work with us. I have tried every one else. We need him to move forward.¡±


    With a hesitant sigh, Timothy nodded, though doubt still gnawed at him. ¡°Alright, but I don¡¯t like this.¡±


    ¡°Wise decision, my boy,¡± Bendron replied, a glimmer of pride in his eyes that turned cold as he looked back at their visitor. ¡°That will be all Roderick please remember what we said!¡±


    As Roderick turned to leave, the box in his hands still writhing slightly, Timothy couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that they were stepping into dangerous territory.


    As Roderick stepped out of the cluttered laboratory, the heavy door creaked shut behind him, sealing off the light and warmth of the space he had just left. A smirk curled upon his lips as he glided down the dimly lit corridor, but beneath that facade, an insidious darkness brewed in the depths of his mind.


    ¡°Filthy dwarfs.¡± He hissed, his voice barely above a whisper, yet it dripped with an unsettling malevolence. ¡°They believe me a mere merchant, a purveyor of rare and exotic goods. They have no inkling of what I truly am.¡±


    With each step, he felt his body shift, the muscles in his limbs contorting, his spine elongating ever so slightly as he erased the form of the lesser created he pretended to be.  A familiar tingling sensation coursed through him, a sinister reminder of the power he possessed. The sharpness of his teeth grazed his lips, a constant reminder of the predatory instincts he had to suppress in front of the unsuspecting pray.


    ¡°I despise having to alter my form for the livestock,¡± he thought bitterly, a scowl twisting his features. ¡°These simpletons believe they can put limits on me, that they can confine me within puny ethics.¡±


    His fingers brushed against the box he clutched tightly under his arm, the twitching inside growing more frantic with each heartbeat. A low, chilling chuckle escaped his lips as he quickened his pace, eager to reach his solitary haven. ¡°They think they can bargain with me,¡± he murmured, a dark thrill surging through him. For a moment he wondered about the mysterious Arch that they worked on  but dismissed moments later.


    Once he was alone in the shadows of a secluded alley, Roderick finally allowed his true form to unfurl. The transformation was swift and exhilarating, his features sharpening, the pallor of his skin shifting to a more vibrant hue that seemed almost unnatural. The gleam in his eyes intensified, a predatory glimmer that spoke of insatiable hunger. His suppressed senses heightened, as the world around him sharped and grew more vivid, pulsating with the energy of the night.


    He knelt down, placing the box on the ground, his heart racing with anticipation. With a flick of his wrist, he opened it, revealing the  creature inside¡ªa small, writhing mass of magical energy, pulsating with a faint, scarred light. Roderick¡¯s lips curled in a sinister grin, the anticipation sending shivers of delight through his body.


    ¡°Delicious,¡± he murmured, his voice low and hungry, echoing like a whisper in the dark. Without hesitation, he reached in, his ¡°fingers¡± wrapping around the quivering creature, feeling its warmth and frantic energy. He brought it to his maw, and with a swift, ravenous motion, he devoured it whole, the essence flooding through him like liquid fire, igniting a primal hunger within.


    The surge of power was intoxicating, and he reveled in the feeling as the creature¡¯s magic coursed through his veins, igniting something deep within him. But it was gone as quick as it had came siphon away only leaving the insatiable hunger that controlled him.


    As he swallowed the last remnants of the creature, Roderick¡¯s thoughts darkened further, twisting into something malevolent. ¡°Let them play their little games. Let them think they hold the reins.¡±


    With a final glance back toward the laboratory, a satisfied smile curled at the corners of his mouth, a chilling promise lingering in the air. ¡°This time, it¡¯s my turn to dictate the terms.¡±


    Just then, his gaze fell upon a small figure huddled against the cold, damp wall of the alley¡ªa homeless child, filthy and frail, with wide, frightened eyes that reflected both innocence and despair. Roderick paused, the corners of his mouth twitching into a predatory grin. Here was yet another soul, one that no one would miss, a mere whisper in the cacophony of the city.

 Ch 4: Lewin

    ¡°¡®Go to the Academy,¡¯ they said. ¡®It will be fun,¡¯ they said.¡± I spoke to myself in the dark confines of my cabin, the words echoing off the wooden walls. The air was thick with silence, broken only by the soft thrum of the airship¡¯s engines and the occasional creak of the vessel swaying gently in the night sky. I lay on my back in the middle of my bed, staring up at the ceiling, which was dimly illuminated by the faint glow of a lantern flickering nearby. An immense wave of boredom washed over me, feeling more oppressive in the stillness of the night.


    After much deliberation, I had finally decided to attend the Academy, and my uncle had taken it upon himself to make all the arrangements for me and my cousin Astor to arrive via airship. Most people think spending four days in an airship might be fun, well at least for the first day. But that excitement quickly fades after the fifth time


    you get yelled at for looking over the edge.


    Outside my window, the world was cloaked in darkness, the moon casting a silvery sheen over the clouds. The stars glimmered in the vast expanse of the night sky, twinkling like distant lanterns.


    There was absolutely nothing to do. During the day most of the crew were busy attending to their duties, while the few who had paused to speak with me seemed more intent on issuing warnings than sharing tales: don¡¯t spit over the edge, don¡¯t climb the rigging, don¡¯t do this, don¡¯t do that.


    With a resigned sigh, I swung my legs over the edge of the bed and stood up. Perhaps getting out of this cabin would clear my mind. I slipped into the narrow corridor, the polished wood beneath my feet creaking softly as I walked. The air was cool, carrying with it the faint scent of salt and varnish.


    As I moved down the hallway, my thoughts drifted to tomorrow when we would arrive any the academy. What would it be like? And more importantly how good will the food be?


    As I walked the wooden borders beneath creaked as if they were protesting my weight.


    As I reached the end of the hallway, I paused, contemplating my next move. There was one thing I could do, one person I could visit¡ªthe only fun option in this tedious journey. I knocked on the door to Astor¡¯s cabin, eager for a distraction.


    ¡°Astor!¡± I called out, my voice echoing in the silence. ¡°Are you in there?¡±


    ¡°Go away!¡± he shouted back, his voice muffled by the door. ¡°I¡¯m not coming out until we land!¡±


    I chuckled despite myself. Astor¡¯s fear of heights was something he had since he was a kid. I could picture him huddled in the corner of his darkened room, clutching a pillow like a lifeline. ¡°Come on! It¡¯s just a little airship. You can¡¯t hide in there forever!¡±


    There was a moment of silence before he replied, ¡°Yes, I can.¡±


    I leaned against the door, shaking my head with a grin. The thought of my cousin, usually so lively, now cowering in fear, gave me a small bit of amusement. ¡°Astor, when is the next time you could get a view like this! You can¡¯t miss out on that just because the ship is a little high off the ground. Plus, we might not get much time to see each other after tomorrow.¡±


    The night outside felt alive, the gentle sway of the airship and the whisper of the wind beckoning me. As I waited for Astor to respond, I breathed in deeply, letting the cool air fill my lungs. I hoped he would join me, I didn¡¯t know if we would get much time just to hang out. I didn''t know much about the Academy. I never paid too much attention until recently. But from what I had heard was that would, be adventures would be splitting into teams. I wasn''t sure how many people would be on each team but from what it sounded like there was a very real chance that me and Aster could be separated.


    Astors voice came back through the door.¡± Look Lewin and I''m not coming out. Just come get me when we''re there okay.¡±


    I felt my temper rising a bit. We''ve been on this Airship for three days. In that time Aster had left his room not even once. I understood his fear but this just seemed a little extreme. My uncle had bought this Airship not even 2 years ago and maintenance was done after every trip. Everything was perfectly safe; his reaction just seemed irrational.


    Come on Astor what are you scared of a few clouds they''re not going to eat you honestly you''re being silly why don''t you come up on deck and stop being a baby.


    I regretted my words almost as soon as I said them and especially when Asters'' hurt tone slid through the door.


    ¡°I know it''s silly but I can''t help it.  I don''t make fun  of your fears so why do you have to make fun of mine.¡±


    The guilt started to eat at me. He was right. There''s been so many times when my own problems had started to get the best of me and instead of poking fun at me, Astor had always been there to listen even when I didn''t deserve it.


    I put my hand on the door, my mouth opening but no words coming out.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I just wanna make sure we spent some time in case we got separated. I¡¯ll leave you alone.¡±


    As I walked away my boots made the boards under me creek as if they disapproved. It wasn''t long before I was about deck. My thoughts unbidden, turning to my own fears.


    As I stood on deck, lost in the vastness of the night sky, a familiar unease settled in my stomach. Thoughts of black scales crept into my mind, like shadows slipping through the corners of my memory. I leaned against the railing, squeezing it until my knuckles turned white.


    For a fleeting moment, a vision flashed before my eyes¡ªa castle engulfed in flames, the air thick with smoke and chaos. I could almost hear the distant roar of a creature, a sound that sent shivers down my spine. It was a memory, or perhaps just a dream, but it left a lingering trace of fear in my heart.


    I shook my head, trying to dispel the image. It was silly to let my imagination run wild like this, especially when I had just made fun of Aster for doing the same. I focused on the gentle rocking of the ship beneath me, but the unease still lingered, a shadow that wouldn¡¯t quite fade.


    Just as I thought I would be pulled back in to that night, a voice broke through the stillness of the night. ¡°Hey! Get away from the edge!¡±


    ¡°Seriously, this again.¡± I grumbled do these guys ever take a break or do they just stand there waiting for an excuse to yell at me.


    I turned to see a crew member standing a few feet away, his brow furrowed with concern. He was a rugged man with salt-and-pepper hair, his weathered face illuminated by the lantern light. ¡°Ye don¡¯t want to lean out too far up here, lad. It¡¯s dangerous, especially at night.¡±


    I stepped back, a bit embarrassed to be caught so close to the edge. ¡°Sorry, I was just¡­ lost in thought.¡±


    ¡°Looks like ye¡¯ve got a lot on yer mind,¡± he said, casually adjusting the wheel as the airship swayed gently. ¡°What¡¯s botherin¡¯ ye? It¡¯s not every day ye get to fly above the clouds.¡±


    ¡°Just a bit of cabin fever, I guess,¡± I replied, forcing a smile. ¡°And maybe a touch of nervousness about tomorrow.¡±


    He chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with understanding. ¡°Ah, it¡¯s normal, that is. I used to feel the same way when I first started. Ye get used to it after a while, especially when ye realize how beautiful it is up here.¡±


    I glanced over the edge again, the clouds glowing faintly under the moonlight, and felt a flicker of awe. ¡°It is beautiful,¡± I admitted.


    ¡°Fear is a part of life,¡± he said, his tone turning serious. ¡°But it¡¯s how we deal with that fear that matters. Ye can¡¯t let it rule ye. Embrace the adventure instead.¡±


    His words struck a chord, reminding me of the fleeting memory of the burning castle. I nodded slowly, trying to shake off the image. ¡°You¡¯re right. I guess I just need to find a way to enjoy this.¡±


    ¡°Exactly! How about ye help me out for a bit?¡± he said, pointing towards the sky. ¡°I could use an extra pair of eyes to help spot some constellations.¡±


    ¡°Constellations?¡± I asked, intrigued.


    ¡°Aye! They¡¯re not just pretty lights in the sky. They¡¯re guides for navigatin¡¯ the seas and skies. Here, let me show ye.¡± He gestured for me to join him at the front of the ship.


    I stepped closer, my eyes wide with curiosity. ¡°What do I do?¡±


    ¡°First, we¡¯re lookin¡¯ fer the Star of the Traveler, one of the most important constellations up here. It¡¯s shaped like a compass rose and points the way to the East,¡± he explained, pointing upward. ¡°See that cluster of stars? There¡¯s the tip of the compass, and there, that bright one at the edge? That¡¯s the Star of the Traveler.¡±


    I squinted into the darkness, slowly starting to make out the shapes he described. ¡°I see it!¡±


    ¡°Good! Now, if ye follow the line of the stars that form the compass points, they¡¯ll guide ye on your journeys, especially way up here.¡±


    He continued, ¡°Now look for the Celestial Serpent. It winds across the night, its long body made up of stars that shimmer like scales. They say it protects travelers from storms.¡±


    As he pointed out various constellations, like the Winged Phoenix, which soared high with stars that twinkled like embers, and the Gilded Anchor, which represented hope and stability, I felt a sense of wonder wash over me. Each constellation had its own story, and with each tale, my fears began to recede, replaced by a growing appreciation for the vastness above.


    ¡°Every time I look at the sky, I remember I¡¯m just a tiny part of a much larger picture,¡± he said, his voice rich with warmth and wisdom. ¡°It reminds me to keep movin¡¯ forward, no matter how dark the night might seem.¡±


    I nodded, feelings of wonder filing me. Feeling a bit calmer I looked out at the night with new eyes. ¡°Thank you for teaching me this. It¡¯s¡­ comforting.¡±


    The crew member smiled, his eyes sparkling with pride. ¡°Anytime, lad. Just remember, the stars will always be there to guide ye, just as long as ye know how to look for them.¡±


    We just stood there, staring at the stars the longer I watched the more I felt my fear and fade. My heart relaxed, and my spirit felt more at peace. Seeming to since the change the crewmember spoke again.


    ¡°Ye know,¡± the crew member said, glancing at me with a knowing smile, ¡°ye should head down to yer cabin and try to get some sleep. Ye¡¯ve got a big day ahead of ye tomorrow.¡±


    I sighed, the feelings of wanderer quickly being replaced with tiredness. I let out a slow yawn before responding.  ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re probably right. I¡¯m just a bit wired from everything.¡±


    ¡°Trust me, lad. A good night¡¯s sleep will do ye wonders. ¡°Will be there before you know it¡± he said, yawning slightly. ¡°The stars will still be here when ye wake up.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll give it a shot,¡± I replied, feeling a mix of excitement and exhaustion. With one last glance at the glittering sky, I turned to head back down into the cabin.


    As I settled into my small bed, the gentle hum of the airship and the soft rocking motion made it easy to close my eyes. I felt the tension in my body unwind, and just as I began to drift off, I thought I heard the faint whisper of the Wind Serpent, guiding my dreams.


    ¡°Arrived at the Academy!¡± came a voice from outside, cheerful and boisterous. ¡°Rise and shine, everyone! Time to disembark!¡±


    I rubbed my eyes, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. ¡°Already?¡± I muttered to myself. It felt like I had only close my eyes for a moment. Sunlight coming in for my cabin window being the only sign that anytime at.


    With a quick stretch, I threw off the covers and put a fresh pair set of clothes on. Once I was done, I made my way to the door, my heart pounding in anticipation. The crew member I had spoken to earlier was already at the top of the staircase, grinning widely. ¡°See? Told ye it would come quick!¡±


    I joined him on deck, and form it was too bright for me to see. But slowly as my site began to clear up a bit, my breath caught in my chest. Several hundred feet away from us was a floating island. As we got closer, we began to rise in elevation, circling around the island.


    ¡°Welcome to yer new home, lad!¡± the crew member said, clapping me on the back. ¡°Now, let¡¯s get ye settled in.¡±


    As I stood there, the excitement surged through me , washing away the lingering traces of sleep. This was it. This was the Academy. Appeared over the edge for once, not hearing any complaints from the crew.


    I marveled at the impossible site before me. An entire island floating in the sky with the city resting on its back. Down below, I could see hundreds of streets creating a stitch work pattern between buildings. We were too far up to accurately make out what all the buildings were but little dots that I thought were people moved around quickly. Several stone towers rose from several parts of the city.  I couldn¡¯t help but stare. This was like nothing I had ever seen before.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it magnificent?¡± the crew member said beside me, his voice filled with pride. ¡°This is where ye¡¯ll spend the next chapter of yer life. The Academy isn¡¯t just a school; it¡¯s a whole world of its own.¡±


    I nodded, unable to tear my gaze away from the stunning scenery. ¡°It¡¯s more beautiful than I imagined,¡± I replied, feeling a surge of excitement bubbling within me.


    As we circled around the island, he pointed out several buildings explaining what they were.


    ¡°Now you see that circle thing over there that¡¯s the arena. In the big building in the middle is the Academy classroom area. In the Long building to the north a bit is the cafeteria.


    Eventually, when we made our way to the other side of the island we began to descend. I grip the railing tighter as a slight feeling of weightlessness hit me. The crewmembers were running all over the deck. Calling out orders. Pulling ropes. The ship was a lot with more energy than I had seen the whole trip.


    ¡°Hold on tight!¡± the crew member called out as the airship began its descent toward the docks. ¡°We¡¯re landing!¡±


    The ship decelerated quickly, giving me a small bit of vertigo. With a gentle thud, the ship touched down. Looking around I could see that we had landed in a large plaza area. Ahead of me, hundreds people mingle.  As I stepped off the ship I noticed how weird the ground felt. The best way to describe it would have to be the feeling that you get when you¡¯re on elevator that¡¯s raising up. When you get a slightly weak at the knees feeling. Somehow the city must be exerting the constant upward pressure.


    ¡°No no no no no. What hell is this. Why is the city floating. No I can¡¯t do this put me back in the cabin I want to go home.¡± at the sound of the voice I turned my head back towards the ship.


    One of the larger crew members, a burly man with a beard that looked like it had been home to a family of birds, was struggling to carry Astor off the ship. Astor, who had been pale and trembling ever since we left Grifden, was clinging to the railing as if it were a lifeline. His wide eyes darted around in a panic, and he let out a series of high-pitched squeaks that sounded remarkably like a distressed kitten.


    ¡°C¡¯mon now, lad! It¡¯s just a few steps!¡± the crew member grunted, hoisting Astor higher. ¡°Ye can¡¯t stay up there forever!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t! I can¡¯t! Not on the edge!¡± Astor wailed, his legs flailing comically as the crew member tried to pull him off the rail. ¡°What if I fall? I¡¯ll plummet to my doom!¡±


    The crew member rolled his eyes, a smirk creeping onto his face. ¡°Doom? There¡¯s no doom here! there¡¯s enchantments to catch you. If you fall your bounce right back up. It¡¯s just a bit of height! Ye¡¯re safe, I promise!¡±


    Astor¡¯s grip loosened for a moment as he let out a dramatic gasp. ¡°Safe? You call this safe? We¡¯re floating in the sky! This whole island could just¡­ vanish!¡±


    ¡°Only if ye keep screamin¡¯ like a banshee!¡± the crew member retorted, finally managing to yank Astor off the rails and plant him firmly on the ground, albeit with a slight thud.


    Astor stumbled back, clutching his chest as if recovering from a near-death experience. ¡°I¡¯ll never get used to this!¡± he declared, his voice a mix of indignation and panic. ¡°I should have brought a parachute... or a safety net... or just never come in the first place!¡±


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    I couldn¡¯t help but burst into laughter at the sight of Astor, his wild hair standing on end and his eyes wide with disbelief. ¡°You know,¡± I said, trying to catch my breath, ¡°it might be easier to just look down next time and see how solid the ground is.¡±


    Astor shot me a glare, his face flushed. ¡°Easier for you to say!!¡±


    As I stepped away from the ship, I took a moment to appreciate the plaza. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with laughter and chatter, contrasted sharply with Astor''s melodrama. I felt a sense of camaraderie forming already, and I knew that whatever came next, this place would be filled with unforgettable moments¡ªboth serious and absurd.


    ¡°Welcome to the Academy, where the sky''s the limit, and apparently, so is Astor¡¯s imagination,¡± I quipped, chuckling as we made our way into the heart of the plaza together.


    As I took in the vibrant plaza, my eyes began to roam over the diverse crowd that bustled around me. It was a tapestry of races, each one unique and fascinating in its own right. I began to try and mentally cataloged all the different beings mingling in the square.


    Tabaxi were easy to spot, their feline grace evident in the way they moved. Some lounged casually on benches, their tails flicking lazily, while others darted about.


    Next, I counted the Wolfkin. They were probably one of the most common native races to Concordia. Even here they seem to stand taller than most of the crowd.


    But what caught my eye the most were the Swarmlings. My breath caught from a moment when I noticed them. Native to the Dark Hive they were the first race I had ever seen from another country. The weirdest part about them is that they seem to not share many common features other than being. Other than all being some type of insect that was the only thing most of them had in common. A few resembled ants while one or two resembled grasshoppers. I felt my skin crawl when I noticed one of them at the body of a centipede. For some reason, they all be closer around, looking at a bunch of scrolls.


    ¡° Diz is madnezz, madnezz I tell you. How could any society function like diz? How are we zuppozed to know the rulez or procedurez for anything? Impozzible zimply impozzible.¡±I watched as one that looked a bit like a butterfly cried out and clutched his head. It¡¯s voice had a weird buzzing.


    The rest of the students seem to think they were as weird as I did because there was a wide gap between them and the rest of the crowd.


    Among the crowd, I spotted a group of what looked like humanoid mushrooms. Their bodies were stout and rounded, resembling various types of fungi, with caps of vibrant colors perched atop their heads¡ªsome in deep reds, others in sunny yellows, and a few in soft blues. They moved in a jovial cluster, their laughter ringing out like the gentle chime of wind chimes. Each step they took sent a faint, earthy aroma wafting through the air, reminiscent of a damp forest after rain. Occasionally, one would break away from the group to skip over to a nearby vendor, returning triumphantly with a handful of delicious-looking snacks that looked suspiciously like they might have grown from the ground itself. I couldn¡¯t help but admire their cheerful demeanor; they seemed to share an unbreakable bond with one another, reveling in their quirky nature and the joy of simply being together.


    For a moment I was lost looking at all the different races that filled the crowd. Some of them I couldn¡¯t even identify.


    ¡°Hey, keep up. I want to get away from the edge!¡± Astor called, snapping me out of my reverie. He was already making his way toward a cluster of excited students.


    As I continued to take in the lively scene, I noticed the mushroom folk gathering their luggage, which had been carelessly left behind during their enthusiastic chatter. Their bags were shaped like small, colorful toadstools, and as they picked them up, I could see that they were filled to the brim with various trinkets and snacks. A few of them exchanged giggles as they struggled to balance their oversized bags, their caps bobbing with every movement. Quickly I remembered my own luggage and grabbed the few bags that we had brought.


    Astor, still recovering from his earlier panic, caught sight of the nearby Swarmlings and furrowed his brow. ¡°Hey, do you see those guys?¡± he asked, a hint of trepidation in his voice. ¡°What¡¯s their deal? They look... well, a bit intimidating, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    I nodded, glancing back at the group , who were now engaged in a serious discussion about their scrolls. ¡°They seem weird. Do you think that they are students like us?¡±


    Astor shifted his weight nervously. ¡°I don¡¯t know, and what about those little mushroom people? They¡¯re definitely not from here either. Do you think they¡¯re friendly?¡±


    I chuckled at his worry. ¡°They seem pretty cheerful. I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if they¡¯re the life of the party around here! It¡¯s weird seeing so many different races from different countries.¡±


    Astor nodded, still watching the lively mushroom folk as they laughed and interacted with each other. ¡°I just hope we don¡¯t end up in some kind of misunderstanding with anyone. I mean, can you imagine trying to explain to my father how we got in a fight after being here only five minutes?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just keep an open mind,¡± I encouraged, feeling a sense of excitement about the potential for new friendships. ¡°Every race has its quirks and customs, right?¡±


    As we stepped deeper into the crowd of mingling students, the atmosphere grew increasingly electric. Laughter and chatter filled the air, accompanied by the enticing aromas of street food and the vibrant colors of various stalls lining the plaza. I felt a thrill coursing through me as we navigated through the crowd following behind Astor, who seem to have forgotten how high up we were.


    Suddenly, a familiar voice cut through the din like a beacon. ¡°Lewin! Astor! Over here!¡±


    I turned to see a tall figure waving enthusiastically.  Dorian was a fellow noble whose family had a long-standing reputation. His charisma and confidence were hard to miss, making him stand out even among the nobility. His mother held a prestigious position far above my uncle¡¯s, and while I had always seen him as trustworthy, I also felt a hint of annoyance.


    Astor nudged me with his elbow. ¡°Looks like we¡¯ve got Dorian in our midst,¡± he said, his voice tinged with a mix of exasperation.


    As we made our way toward him, Dorian flashed his trademark smile. ¡°I was hoping I¡¯d run into you two!¡± he exclaimed, his enthusiasm booming. ¡°How are you finding it so far?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s incredible,¡± I replied, forcing a smile. ¡°There¡¯s a lot to see and experience. I feel like I¡¯ve just scratched the surface.¡±


    Dorian nodded, his eyes sparkling. ¡°You have no idea! I arrived last night. You¡¯ll love it here. Just wait until you meet some of the other nobles.¡±


    ¡°Who all is here?¡± I asked cures to see if any friends had joined us.¡±


    Dorian listed off a few names. I knew most of them but I didn''t like a lot of them. While most nobles mainly focused on improving their land and trying to increase the commonwealth of their people, a few had weird ideas of what they called fun.


    Astor chimed in, trying to steer the conversation, ¡° Have you seen the Swarmlings? They¡¯re quite the sight, and those mushroom people over there seem friendly enough.¡±


    Dorian raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement dancing in his expression. ¡°Ha, the Swarmlings ! There are a bunch of bureaucrats a lot of them. The few I¡¯ve met seem all right, but they apparently have this hive mind thing that they used to keep track of all their rules. Apparently so far away from the rest of their colony it¡¯s not really working and they¡¯re freaking out a little bit. As for the Mushys, or the mushroom people as you call them. They¡¯re delightful! I¡¯ve shared meals with them. They have a knack for crafting delicious dishes from just about anything.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like they those bugs got it ruff¡± I said, feeling a mix of discomfort at Dorian''s patronizing tone. ¡°


    Dorian chuckled, his expression unfazed. ¡°But honestly, wouldn¡¯t having one of those guys in your team be interesting? As long as they¡¯re not commoners, of course. They¡¯re not as capable, and it would be an inconvenience, having to protect them all the time.¡±


    Astor frowned, clearly annoyed. ¡°That¡¯s an outdated way of thinking, Dorian. Just because they¡¯re not nobles doesn¡¯t mean they lack value. Everyone has something to contribute, and we should be open to learning from them.¡±


    Dorian shrugged, unfazed. ¡°This again. I¡¯m not saying that they don¡¯t have value. You know as well as I do that a noble title grants a noble''s offspring greater physical traits at birth. It''s really nothing against them¡±


    I let out a sigh. He had always been like this. He wasn''t wrong but I still didn¡¯t like his mind set. There was no point in arguing we had tried to convince him for years.


    As we continued through the bustling crowd, a commotion caught my attention. A human girl stood with her fists clenched, her fiery red hair spilling out of a messy braid and framing her determined face. Her green eyes blazed with intensity, reflecting her frustration as she pointed an accusing finger at a male tabxi just a few paces away.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe my father sponsored a thief and instead of being grateful you go around acting like this!¡± she yelled, her voice slicing through the chatter like a knife. ¡°What kind of message does that send?¡±


    The tabaxi leaned against a nearby stone wall, his black fur blending into the shadows. Bright amber eyes sparkled with mischief, and a smirk played on his lips as he reveled in the chaos he stirred. ¡°Oh, come now! I prefer to think of myself as a resourceful entrepreneur. And that whole walking with your backstreet thing really puts a crick in my neck!¡±


    The girl narrowed her eyes, the challenge in her stance clear. ¡°You think that¡¯s funny? Slouching around like a common criminal? What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Her voice trembled slightly as she tried to control her anger.


    He leaned back, his tail flicking with playful mischief. ¡° I assure you most people don¡¯t even notice. In fact you¡¯re the only one making a scene around here.


    The girl''s cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she scanned the plaza, finally noticing the many watching eyes. ¡°Is everything a joke to you? I have no idea what my father and Lord Featherfall saw in you. The least you could do is try not to make a fool of yourself and have proper posture for once.¡±


    The Tabaxi  chuckled, clearly enjoying the banter. ¡°Come on, you need to learn to lighten up; not everything has to be so serious all the time.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re impossible! Do you really think you can charm your way through life? Unlike the rest of us, I actually have a reputation worth something!¡±


    ¡°I prefer to think of it as a unique strategy,¡± he replied, brushing off her remarks with a smirk. ¡°But hey, am I really that bad? I know we¡¯ve had our differences, but can¡¯t we put those behind us? That way, you won¡¯t have to breathe down my neck all the time.¡±


    Astor and I exchanged glances, both of us feeling a bit lost at what we were seeing play out in front of us.


    ¡°Maybe if you focused less on your petty thievery and more on being a decent person, I wouldn¡¯t have to worry about my father¡¯s reputation!¡± she snapped, her voice firm.


    As the heated exchange continued, Dorian stepped back slightly, his usual grin replaced with concern. Leaning closer to Astor and me, he whispered, ¡°Never mind! I¡¯ll take commoners over being on a team with her any day.¡±


    Astor raised an eyebrow, struggling to suppress a chuckle. ¡°What, can¡¯t you handle a little drama?¡±


    I shrugged, glancing over at the Tabaxi. ¡°Honestly, he doesn¡¯t seem much better from what I can see.¡±


    Dorian shook his head, a smirk dancing on his lips. ¡° The Tabaxi I can handle, but she could be trouble. You two have no idea who she is, do you? That¡¯s Relia Dawn. Her father is the captain of the Hawthorne Knights.¡±


    Astor paused, looking thoughtful. ¡°Wait, aren¡¯t they stationed in Stonehill? I heard that¡¯s a frontier city.¡±


    ¡°It is, and her father is one of the main reasons it¡¯s been able to grow so quickly. In fact, I would say she gets most of her charming personality from him. I swear she acts more like a drill instructor than a lady,¡± Dorian said, flinching slightly.


    ¡°I can see what you mean,¡± I replied, chuckling a bit. ¡°I definitely wouldn¡¯t want to be stuck on a team with one of the crazy ones either.¡± I glanced back at the Tabaxi, shaking my head with a grin. ¡°I wonder what the poor guy did to set her off.¡±


    ¡° I don¡¯t know but it¡¯s probably best if we just leave them to it,¡± Dorian suggested, a mischievous glint in his eye. ¡°They can work out their own little soap opera. I¡¯m sure we¡¯ll hear all about it later.¡±.¡±


    With that, the three of us moved on, leaving the shouting match behind. The vibrant atmosphere of the crowd enveloped us, and the drama faded into the background, replaced by the sounds of laughter and chatter.


    As we walked away, I couldn¡¯t help but glance back at the girl and the Tabaxi, their argument still escalating.


    As Dorian, Astor, and I continued exploring the plaza the noise of the crowd began to fade as a tall figure emerged from the shadows of one of the balcony above. I squinted up, trying to make out who it was, but I couldn¡¯t quite place the face. The figure had silver hair that glinted in the sunlight, and their deep-set blue eyes scanned the crowd with a commanding authority that made everyone stop in their tracks.


    ¡°Attention, students!¡± the figure called out, their voice booming across the courtyard. The chatter gradually quieted, and all eyes turned upward. ¡°I expect all of you to make your way to the auditorium immediately. The open ceremony will commence shortly.¡±


    I exchanged glances with Dorian and Astor. Looking around could the crowd begin to file into a set of double doors under the balcony where the speaker was.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Dorian urged, nudging us forward. ¡°I can''t wait to see what  they have in store. My older brother told me a little bit about his opening ceremony and I can''t wait to see it .¡±


    Astor shook his head, a smile spreading across his face. ¡°You know, after the drama we just witnessed, I¡¯m looking forward to whatever they have planned. It can¡¯t be any worse than that!¡±


    We stepped inside the auditorium, and the sight before us was nothing short of underwhelming compared to everything we had seen so far. Rows of seats filled the space, and a grand stage loomed at the front, adorned with intricate banners and glowing orbs that floated gently above. Dorian led the way, navigating us through the aisles as we searched for a place to sit. We finally settled into a row near the front, the anticipation in the air palpable as more students filed in, their chatter fading to a hush.


    Once everyone was seated, the auditorium dimmed slightly, and a soft glow from magical lights began to illuminate the stage. A hush fell over the crowd, and then, without warning, a series of dazzling lights shot across the stage, swirling around each other before bursting in mid-air and sending a shower of sparks cascading down.


    Several individuals dressed in robes stepped onto the stage, and with a synchronized motion, jets of water erupted from their hands. The water danced around the stage, colliding together like crashing waves before spraying out over the audience. Just then, another figure stepped forward and, with a few  words, turned the spray of water into a magnificent pillar of ice.


    As the scene unfolded, more performers joined in, each adding their own magical talents to the display. Green vines began to grow from the floor, spiraling around the ice sculpture, flowers blooming as they went. At the same time sparks of electricity danced through the air, enhancing the spectacle with vibrant energy.


    The crowd reacted with laughter, and cheers as the show continued. I leaned closer to Dorian and Astor, my eyes wide. ¡°This is incredible! I¡¯ve never seen magic performed like this before!¡±


    ¡°Right? It¡¯s like they¡¯re pulling the very essence of enchantment from the air,¡± Dorian replied, captivated.


    As the magical performance reached its crescendo, an elderly lady stepped into the spotlight. With a sweep of her hand, all the magic that had been displayed disappeared in the instant.  Her silver hair cascaded down her shoulders, and she moved with a graceful authority that commanded respect. Clad in elegant robes adorned with intricate patterns, she approached the center of the podium. The crowd quieted further, the atmosphere shifting as she prepared to speak.


    ¡°Welcome, students,¡± she began, her voice warm yet firm. ¡°I am Headmistress  Elyria, and I¡¯m delighted to see so many eager faces here today.¡± The crowd responded with muted applause, and I could feel a sense of reverence for her presence.


    Headmistress Elyria took a deep breath, allowing the applause to settle before she continued. ¡° Before we continue the opening ceremony I would like to be the first to say how happy I am to have you here. This Academy was formed over 200 years ago by myself and several of my colleagues who no longer with us. It was our dream to create an institution that would not only serve is a training ground for adventures. But would also embodied the ideals of unity that are country was founded on. It is in that spirit that I am pleased to announce that this year and for the next four years, our school will be playing host to the international exchange program. Many races from around the known world will be attending our school.


    A ripple of intrigue coursed through the audience as she spoke. I leaned forward, eager to absorb every word.


    ¡°It is my dearest wish that you will be able to learn from each other, not only about each other¡¯s culture, but also how we can all work together to build a better world.¡±


    The headmistress paused, letting the weight of her words sink in. Her old eyes seem to tell a story of the wrong and she scanned the crowd.


    ¡°So please give me a hand and welcoming our exchange students. Be they minotaur from the kingdom of horns or dwarves and humans from the Empire or even mushy and swarmlings from the dark hive. Please give them around applause.¡±


    I joined in as the crowd erupted in applause. All around me the humans, Wolfkin, and Tabxis of Concordia applauded.


    Headmistress Lyria continued, ¡°This program is not only about cultural exchange; it is about collaboration and understanding. You as adventurers will have a license to pass between countries easier than even merchants. Being able to get along with and understand your neighbors is not only an important skill in life but could possibly help make your careers.¡±


    Her words were followed by a triumphant fanfare of trumpets, their bright notes echoing through the auditorium.


    "Now that the announcements are out of the way, let us proceed with the opening ceremony as usual. Welcome to Masterwork Academy, where the Hall of Destiny awaits. On your journey toward adventure, many obstacles lie ahead, and this is where we will equip you to face any challenges that may arise. Many of you have come here with the ambition of becoming fully licensed adventurers, while others pursue different trades. For some, wielding a hammer in the forges is considered more noble than bearing a sword, while others may find their calling as bards or healers. You¡¯ve already made your choice when you applied, so once the ceremony is complete, please follow the designated pathway to receive your class schedule and housing assignment."


    In a flash of sparks, four sets of doors appeared, glowing brightly on two either side of the stage. As the Headmistress continued to explain which door to go through, I turned to Astor. ¡°I didn¡¯t know they taught more than just adventuring here.¡±


    ¡°Shh! I¡¯m trying to listen. This is why you don¡¯t know anything; you can¡¯t pay attention for more than five seconds,¡± he replied, his eyes focused on the stage.


    ¡°For most of you, the next four years will be spent studying, learning, and growing. After that time, many of you will aspire to join a guild. But remember, guilds don¡¯t just recruit anyone; they seek the best. It¡¯s crucial to stand out. Keep in mind the annual Harvest Festival, when students will have opportunities to showcase their skills. Don¡¯t hesitate to step into the spotlight!¡±


    As Headmistress Elyria concluded her speech, she raised her hands once more, commanding the room''s attention. ¡°Now, students, please follow the path to your left and remain quiet as we transition to the next phase of our orientation. We have much to accomplish today, and your cooperation is essential.¡±


    With a wave of excitement and curiosity, the students began to rise from their seats, a buzz of chatter filling the auditorium before quickly fading as the headmistress¡¯s piercing gaze swept across the crowd. Quickly, the room fell silent once more, punctuated only by the sound of shuffling feet as we filed toward the left door.


    I found myself walking amid a bustling crowd of students, a sense of anticipation swirling in the air. I was looking around for Astor and Dorian, but at some point, we became separated in the throng. Before I could fully process my surroundings, I passed through the imposing double doors and stepped into a long, grand hall filled with students forming orderly lines. The space was alive with the sound of shuffling feet. At the front of the hall were several reception desks, each manned by a receptionist, who sat beside a large pile of what appeared to be smooth, oval-shaped stones, glinting under the soft light.


    As I stood there, I took a moment to look around the room, marveling at the high, vaulted ceiling adorned with intricate carvings and the stunning stained glass windows. They depicted treasures, ancient weapons, and monstrous creatures, casting colorful patterns on the polished floor. The artistry was breathtaking, each window telling a story of its own.


    One line, predominantly composed of Swarmlings seemed to be progressing at a brisk pace. For wants to bug people seem to be calm almost as they enjoyed having some rules to follow. In stark contrast, another line made up mostly of Mushy appeared to be stagnant, their members lazily engaging in quiet conversation, seemingly oblivious to the commotion around them.


    The wait felt interminable as I stood there, my heart racing, too nervous and apprehensive to strike up a conversation with anyone in front of or behind me. My mind raced with questions about what awaited me. Eventually, I made it to the front of the line.


    ¡°Name?¡± the receptionist inquired, her voice brisk yet kind. She had a long blonde braid cascading over her shoulder, and her spectacles perched delicately on her nose. She wore a tailored vest over a crisp button-up shirt.


    ¡°Lewin,¡± I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. She nodded and picked up a form, handing it to me along with a sleek pen that felt cool to the touch.


    She pointed to several spots on the page, her tone efficient. ¡°Please sign here, here, and here.¡±


    Once I had signed, she reached into the pile of stones and handed me one, its surface smooth and cool against my palm, along with a small needle that glinted ominously in the light.


    ¡°Please prick your finger and place one drop of blood on the stone,¡± she instructed. I hesitated, a mix of confusion and apprehension flooding over me. The prospect felt strange, but I ultimately complied. I felt a sharp sting as the needle pierced my skin, and as I pressed my thumb against the stone, it felt both cool and oddly comforting. Moments later, a ripple traversed its surface as the stone transformed into a dark, polished wood, its texture warm and inviting. Before I could process the words that began to etch themselves onto its surface, a voice resonated in my mind.


    ¡°Class rank 1, Level One Fighter. Class Signature Skill Obtained: Enhanced Learning¡ªWeapon Proficiency.¡±


    I looked around, startled by the sudden announcement, while the receptionist regarded me with a bored expression, as if this was an everyday occurrence.


    ¡°You¡¯ll get used to it here. That is an oath stone. Think of it as your personal ID. For now, just imagine it disappearing.


    Still slightly confused by how fast everything was moving at did as she asked moments later the stone vanished the weight disappearing from my hand.


    ¡° You¡¯ll learn more about how to use it in your first class for now take these,¡± she said, pushing a sheet of paper toward me that read ¡°Class Schedule¡± at the top, accompanied by a heavy bronze key that dangled from the edge. ¡°This is your class schedule and the key to your dorm. You will meet the rest of your team at your dorm. Please proceed to the third teleportation circle on the left and wait.¡±


    Still in a daze from how rapidly everything was unfolding, I picked up the paper and the key and made my way to the designated circle, my mind racing. I heard the job before. After obtaining enough proficiency with me field of work, you would attain a level one job. According to my uncle more people would reach around level 30 in their lifetime. But some cases, more exceptional people, would get to 40 or 50. But what was the class and why did I obtain one when I put my blood on that what was it called again, a stone?


    As I stood there, scanning the crowd, I spotted Astor making his way toward me, skillfully weaving through the throng of students. He seemed to be joining the same teleportation circle as I was. We exchanged a nod, both of us looking equally bewildered. For a moment, we stood together, watching our circle fill with students, each one displaying a mix of excitement and apprehension. Suddenly, a brilliant flash of light enveloped us, forcing me to shut my eyes tightly against the dazzling brightness.


    When I finally opened them, it felt as if we had been transported to a completely different world. Weird built in my stomach and I felt like throwing up. I thought with myself to keep it down for a few seconds until it went away. Behind me I heard a few other students weren¡¯t so lucky.


    Cobblestone roads stretched out before us, their uneven surfaces glistening with a hint of moisture, reflecting the soft glow of the evening light. Charming sidewalks lined the streets, adorned with ornate street lamps that flickered gently, casting a warm ambiance. On either side of the road stood two-story houses, each uniquely designed with vibrant colors and whimsical architecture that sparked my imagination. The road stretched into the distance, and directly ahead of our group stood a large gathering of older students, their confident demeanor suggesting that they were seasoned adventurers, well-acquainted with the life we were just beginning.


    ¡°Welcome, everyone! Congratulations on taking your first step toward becoming adventurers!¡± boomed a voice, echoing across the cobblestones. The energy in the air crackled with possibility, and a surge of excitement coursed through me as I realized this was just the beginning of my journey.


    As the speaker stepped forward, a pair of griffins soared above us, carrying a large banner that unfurled mid-air, emblazoned with the word "Welcome" in elegant script.


    ¡°My name is Lance,¡± he continued, his voice filled with enthusiasm. ¡°I can¡¯t tell you how excited I am to welcome you all to your first year at the Masterwork Academy! To get started, each of you should take a look at the back of your dorm key; it will reveal your house number. After that, I want you all to head to your designated house and wait for the rest of your party to arrive. Feel free to introduce yourselves and maybe even converse with some of your neighbors. Later tonight, one of our guides will come to gather you, along with a small group, to give you a tour of the city and then take you out for dinner. There should be a meal waiting for you in your dorms. So don¡¯t worry if you haven¡¯t eaten yet.¡±


    As I turned over my key, I noticed the number 147 etched into its surface. Looking over, Astor was doing the same when I saw the number on his key I grind.


    ¡°Astor, look! We got the same number!¡± I exclaimed, my excitement bubbling over.


    Astor raised his key with a grin, showing off the matching number. ¡°We¡¯re in this together, then!¡±


    Relief washed over me. The prospect of exploring the Academy, meeting new people, and embarking on our journey felt much less daunting with Astor by my side.


    ¡°Let¡¯s head to our dorm and see what awaits us,¡± I suggested, feeling a renewed sense of camaraderie. As we made our way through the dispersing crowd, anticipation thrummed in the air, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what experiences lay ahead for both of us at the Masterwork Academy.


    As we approached our dorm, I felt a thread of nervous energy. The buildings on either side of the road were lined with wooden doors, and the air carried the faint scent of fresh paint and varnish.


    ¡°This is it,¡± I said, glancing at Astor. He nodded, his eyes wide with anticipation.


    Slowly, I put the key into the lock and turn the knob. As I open the door, I got a terrible feeling and my stomach when I saw what was inside.


    ¡°Are you kidding me! How did I end up on the same team as you?¡± A furious  female voice pierced the air.


    It was the same girl from earlier, her fiery red hair a wild halo around her head. She was glaring at the Tabaxi  who lounged casually on the long couch that sat in the center of the room across from the fireplace


    I slowly put my head in my hands.


    ¡°Great, we got stuck with the crazy ones.¡±

 Ch 5: Lewin

    ¡°So let me get this straight,¡± I said, trying to keep my irritation in check. It had been about 30 minutes since Astor and I first opened the door to this madhouse. Relia was pacing like a caged lion, her fiery hair swirling around with every step. The Tabaxi, who I now knew as Felix, had settled into one of the armchairs.


    ¡°Felix broke into your castle?¡± I raised an eyebrow. ¡°To steal cake?¡±


    ¡°Not just any cake! It was a royal chocolate cake! You have no idea how good it is!¡± Felix said defensively.


    ¡°Right, because it perfectly acceptable to break into a girls bedroom for some cake,¡± I replied, crossing my arms.


    Astor, sitting next to me on the couch, stifled a laugh. ¡°And that¡¯s when you screamed for help.¡±


    Relia rolled her eyes. ¡°Something like that¡­¡±


    Felix interrupted. ¡°No! She tried to club me to death with a book! And that¡¯s when I screamed for help. I mean it one of those huge, thick historical tomes. I swear, if I hadn¡¯t gotten out of there, my blood would¡¯ve been scattered across the pages of history!¡±


    ¡°Can you blame me?¡± Relia shot back with a snarl. ¡°You startled me! I thought I was about to be attacked!¡±


    I pinched the bridge of my nose. Please don¡¯t let them start at it again. I thought as I could feel my headache growing. ¡°So, what did you do? Chase him around the castle with an axe or something?¡±


    ¡°Pretty much,¡± Relia admitted, showing no sign of joking. ¡°If I had practiced my axe-throwing a bit more, we wouldn¡¯t have to deal with this moron right now.¡±


    Felix cleared his throat. ¡°Wait, you¡¯re actually trying to kill me?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you tripped over your own stupid feet and my axe went right over your head,¡± Relia smirked. ¡°If it hadn¡¯t been for my father, I would¡¯ve gotten you then and there.¡±


    ¡°Luckiest moment of my life, apparently!¡± Felix said, his fur seeming to lose a little of its color. ¡°Nothing says ¡®welcome to the family¡¯ like being butchered.¡±


    ¡°And then what. Did the guards come and arrest him?¡± I pressed, trying to steer the conversation back on track.


    ¡°No,¡± Relia said throwing her hands up. ¡°After he calmed down, my father and Lord Featherfall took the fur ball aside for a ¡®talk.¡¯ I thought they were gonna have him locked up, but turns out this little weasel was able to get out of it somehow.¡±


    ¡°Well yeah. Turns out when you¡¯re not trying to kill me I¡¯m pretty likable.¡± Felix shot back.


    Relia scoffed. ¡°Well as I was saying. Eventually, my father and Lord Featherfall decided to sponsor him to come to the Academy. Apparently, he¡¯s supposed to work for the lord after graduation. But instead of being grateful, he wanders around in shabby clothes like some kind of ragamuffin.¡±


    ¡°Ragamuffin just cause I got a little style doesn¡¯t mean...¡± Felix started but was cut off by a new voice entering the fray.


    ¡°Will you two just shut up already! We have listened to you two fight from the moment we got here. Unlike some of you who had family connections or just somehow got in here by the luck of the draw, some of us had to actually work for this. Do you know how hard it is to get a scholarship to the school when you come from the capital. There¡¯s only so many spots and there are so many people that want this.


    The speaker was a blonde haired youth, He had already been here before Astor and I arrived. In fact, he looked even more pissed than I felt. After taking a moment to catch his breath and calm down a bit, he continued in slightly softer tone.


    ¡°Look we¡¯re all stuck together whether you like it or not. If we can¡¯t find a way to work together we might as well save ourselves some time and go home right now. Relia do you really want to go home and tell your father that you couldn¡¯t make it as an adventure because you couldn¡¯t get along with one person. Felix, this is your chance to be more than just some thief, do you even know how many people don¡¯t get an opportunity like this?¡±


    As he finished he gave Relia and Felix a sharp look. Relia¡¯s cheeks were red with shame. Similarly Felix stared at the floor his usual grin nowhere to be seen. They stood there for a moment no one making a sound.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I accidentally broke into your bedroom.¡± Felix said breaking the silence. His ears were flat against his head, tail droop against the floor. ¡° I¡¯m also sorry for not showing the proper respect for what your father has done for me. I will take better care of my appearance from now on.¡±


    I watched Relia blink. She seemed a little caught off guard by the apology. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I tried to kill you but if you break into my bedroom again, I¡¯m not gonna make any promises.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve seen how much you¡¯ve been practicing with your ax. I¡¯m not taking anymore chances. I mean seriously you might only miss by a few feet next time.¡± Felix said, shooting her a grin.


    Relia pause for a moment before laughing. For the first time since we met actually smiling.


    ¡°All right, now that that¡¯s settled, let¡¯s start over with introductions. I suppose I should go first. I¡¯m Frederick, but you can call me Fredy. I¡¯m from the capital. My parents are undertakers but I¡¯ve never had much of a taste for the family business. So now I¡¯m here trying something.¡±


    Relia went next. Now that she had calmed down a bit her tone was much softer and more formal .¡°I am Relia Dawn, daughter of Captain Dawn of the Hawthorne Knights, in service to Lord Featherfall.¡± She held her chin high, a hint of pride in her voice. ¡°I am my father¡¯s only child. So it is my duty to carry on his legacy.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯m just Felix. There¡¯s not much about me that you don¡¯t know.¡± Felix stood as he spoke.


    Finally it was Astor turn to stand up. ¡°I am Astor Airnol, and this,¡± he said while pointing at me. ¡°Is my cousin, Lewin. My father wanted us to learn how to defend ourselves and our people. At least that is what me. Personally I think he just wanted us out of the house.¡±


    We all stood there for a moment just looking at each other before I broke the silence. ¡°So do we just stand here or is there something else we need to do.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Honestly I was expecting some dramatic music, maybe some confetti. Fred add giving a small srug.


    ¡°Welll this is awkward.¡±


    ¡°Yep¡±


    Relia clapped her hands quickly gaining the room¡¯s attention. ¡°Great now that we have introductions done let¡¯s get some ground rules out of the way. This might be new for you boys but I¡¯m not going to be living in a pigsty. I want each of you to remember that if you make a mess, it is your job to clean it. You got that¡±


    ¡° Eye eye captain.¡± Felix said snapping to attention and giving a salute.


    ¡°That¡¯s not how you do a¡­.you know what never mind.¡± Relia stoped here self before correcting Felix on his form. ¡°Let¡¯s just get started. Every one grab you bags. We can spend the rest of the day staring at each other after we¡¯re unpacked.¡±


    Not seeing anything else to do, we quickly filed over to where we had all dumped our bags. It wasn¡¯t long before we had our them and started towards the staircase that led to the second floor, where I presumed the bedrooms were. As I passed by the dining area, a wonderful aroma struck my nose. At some point in the earlier ¡°debate¡± we had forgotten about how we were supposed to have a meal already ready and waiting for us. My stomach growled reminding me that we hadn¡¯t had breakfast.


    ¡°Soon¡± I whispered to the tantalizing smells.


    Reaching the top of the stairs I learned that the second floor consisted of a hallway that seemed longer than the house should be able to hold. Three doors lined both sides of the hall. After a moment of staring, Felix rushed forward , while yelling ¡°dibs.¡± After staring a moment, everyone else took his queue and rushed forward to claim the room that they wanted. I ended up getting one of the rooms at the very end of the hall. When I got to my door, I was grinning from how childish we were acting. Not wasting any more time put my hand on the doorknob. The second I did, my hand seemed to stick. I felt a slight tingling sensation as the doorknob emitted a faint blue glow. After a moment I felt my hand come unstuck with a slight pop. Looking at the it, I noticed it had changed. Where it once looked like simple brass, it now bore an elegant ¡°L¡± etched into the front, presumably for Lewin.


    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    As I pushed the door open, I was greeted by an unexpected sight. My new bedroom surprised me with how spacious it felt.


    ¡°Wow, it¡¯s bigger on the inside.¡± I muttered to my self. I stepping in and letting my bags drop to the floor with a soft thud. I spun in a slow circle, taking in my new room. The walls were painted a soft blue, and the space was furnished with a desk, a bed, and a dresser. Walking across the room, I opened the door on the far wall. My astonishment grew as I saw what was inside¡ªa small bathroom and shower. What kind of building has a bathroom in the bedroom? My thoughts stumbled for a moment as I admired what was presumably going to be my room for the next three years. Curiosity piqued, I glanced back at the bed. There¡¯s no way it could be... Hoping to prove myself wrong, I took a running leap and jumped. As soon as I landed on the bed, I was enveloped by its softness. I had to fight the urge to cocoon myself in the covers.


    ¡°This place is amazing!¡±


    I spent the next ten minutes just admiring the room before finally getting to work unpacking. I didn¡¯t bring much, but still I had only gotten halfway done when I heard the doorbell ring.


    ¡°That¡¯s strange,¡± I muttered to myself, glancing at the clock hanging on the wall. It showed a little past midday. ¡°Are they starting the tour already? I thought we¡¯d have more time.¡±


    I stopped unpacking and proceeded to leave my room, heading downstairs. I could hear the doors opening behind me as the rest of my team followed.


    Reaching the bottom of the stairs, I crossed the distance to the front door and opened it. I looked out then up and up and up. What greeted me was the sight of a massive figure with a chest coverd in fur and bristling with muscles. The persons head was bull-shaped and had two wicked horns sticking out of ether side. A Minotaur. I froze in place; this was my first time seeing one in person. He grinned down at me and, with a deep voice, spoke.


    ¡°Greetings, comrade. I am Galdric. Would you like a cupcake?¡± As he spoke, he lifted something. Looking down, I saw he held a baking tray of cupcakes topped with pink frosting and sprinkles.


    Deciding it would be rude not to, I reached down and took one. ¡°Ahh, thank you,¡± I said before taking a bite. The moment I did, my mouth exploded with flavor. The cupcake had the perfect crunch that only fresh pastries have. The frosting was sweet and creamy, and to my absolute delight, it was chocolate. I quickly shoved the rest of the cupcake into my mouth, happily chewing.


    ¡°This is amazing!¡± I said around some cupcake.


    The Minotaur let out a hearty laugh at my reaction. ¡°Thank you, comrade! I do try. May we come in?¡±


    ¡°We?¡± I asked, eyeing the rest of the cupcakes.


    ¡°Da, me and the rest of my adventuring team. We are next-door neighbors. We thought it would be nice to make good impression early.¡±


    ¡°Can I have more cupcakes?¡± I asked hopefully.


    ¡°Of course, as many as you like,¡± he said, his smile wide.


    ¡°Then, yeah, come on in,¡± I said, grabbing a few more cupcakes and turning back to the rest of my party now waiting in the hall. ¡°We¡¯ve got company, guys. And he says the cupcakes are only for me.¡±


    As I moved aside, the Minotaur ducked his head to avoid scraping his horns against the top of the doorway. Each of his hoofsteps made a small thud as he stepped inside. Now unobstructed, a much smaller figure followed after. To my surprise, the figure turned out to be a Swarmling. It had the body of a wasp with black and yellow along its carapace. Its compound eyes made me a little uneasy. Unlike Galdric, it seemed to lack any sense of confidence, walking in slightly hunched, its long, slender fingers rubbing against each other nervously.


    ¡°Hello, my name is Vespin. I am pleased to meet you. Please forgive me if I cause any offense; I am not fully informed of your rules or customs.¡± His voice had a slight buzz.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it, mate. You¡¯ll fit right in,¡± Felix said, walking over and putting an arm around Vespin¡¯s shoulder.


    I narrowed my eyes as I noticed the remnants of pink frosting on Felix¡¯s lips¡ªobviously from one of MY cupcakes. Dark thoughts of revenge began to swirl in my mind as the last member of Galdric¡¯s team bounced in. I turned to look, and a spear seemed to shoot through my heart.


    Suddenly, I was back that night. Fire everywhere. Screams rose all around me. Tha smell choked ash filled my nose. I trembled as the smoke surrounded me, my small body helpless as I watched the flames consume my father, melting his armor around him. My vision was overwhelmed by the sight of the large pillar like fangs, scales blacker than night, and one massive red eye staring down at me.


    Don¡¯t react. Don¡¯t move. It can¡¯t get you if you don¡¯t move. Don¡¯t move. Don¡¯t move.Don¡¯t move!


    I blinked and found myself back in the present. Gone were the flames and smoke; the screams faded away as if they¡¯d never been. The sent of smoke fading just out of reach. But still, the fear remained. I felt my heart thundering in my chest as panic began to take hold. Just a few feet in front of me stood a gray dragon. It¡¯s head came up to about my shoulders. I watched, petrified, as time seemed to move in slow motion.


    ¡°Oh my gosh, I¡¯m so happy to be here!¡± the dragon exclaimed in a clearly feminine voice. My eyes tracked her as she rushed toward Relia. ¡°Wow, you¡¯re a human! You¡¯re all so cute! Oh, and your hair is so long and pretty; can I touch it?¡±


    Relia paused, clearly caught off guard by the barrage of words, but after a moment, she regained her composure and smiled. ¡°That would be fine.¡±


    I watched as one claw  ran it¡¯s way through Relia¡¯s hair. The dragon seemed to be bouncing with excitement. I could still feel my heart leap every time she switched her tail.


    ¡°Wow, it is soft! That¡¯s so amazing! I¡¯m Sylvara, but my friends all call me Syl.¡± Without warning She nuzzled Relia¡¯s neck and then bounced around to do the same with the rest of our team.


    I felt panic building even more as she approached me. In a moment of desperation, I took the only action I could, which was nothing at all.


    Don¡¯t react. Don¡¯t move. It can¡¯t get you if you don¡¯t move. If it worked then it will work now . Don¡¯t move. Don¡¯t move. Please don¡¯t move!


    The dragon reached out her long neck and nuzzled mine. While it lasted only a few seconds, the contact felt eternal, panic consuming me as I felt completely unable to react.


    Time moved in a haze. I watched silently as the rest of the introductions unfolded. It felt as if I were in the backseat of my own body, passively observing all the interactions. Eventually, the group moved to the dining room, where everyone sat around the table chatting. At some point, food and cupcakes appeared, but I wasn¡¯t sure when. My fear made me forget my hunger. At some point, I made an excuse about having to go to the bathroom. when I finally stumbled into my room, I shut and locked the door behind me. The fear made me feel sick. I quickly moved to the bathroom retching into the toilet, but nothing came. I don¡¯t know how long I sat there before my fear began to fade along my thoughts to come a little more more clearly.


    She¡¯s not the same dragon. She¡¯s not the same. I repeated the thought over and over, trying to shake off my fear. But I didn¡¯t work. Logically I know I was safe. But it wasn¡¯t that simple.


    *Knock, Knock, Knock.*


    I jumped at the noise. My eyes darted to the door.


    ¡°Lewin? Can I come in¡±. The voice was Astor¡¯s. I didn¡¯t move for a moment, but slowly I crawled across the floor and unlock the door. He opened it quickly stepping in and relocked it behind him. He as sat on the floor next to me. We just sat the for a moment, no world, no sound. It helped I can say why. When I finally spoke my voice trimbled.


    ¡° Is she still there?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The reply was simple. But the emotions it brought were not.


    ¡°I can¡¯t go back down there.¡± I said I put my head in my hands.


    ¡°I know, but I think you should try. The others were thinking that it was weird that you were gone so long. But I told him that you have a hard time meeting so many new people at once. Honestly, I think if you give Syl a chance you would like her.¡±


    I didn¡¯t say anything for a long moment. I knew he was probably right, but that still didn¡¯t do anything to change how I felt.


    She¡¯s not the same she¡¯s not the same.


    ¡° This will probably be a good opportunity to help you move past this.¡± Astor continued.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if it works like that.¡± Part of me wanted to. I wanted to go downstairs and be normal but there was just something there blocking me from taking the next step. Something that¡¯s seeds were planted long ago.


    Aster stood up and reached a handout to me. ¡° I don¡¯t know either but it¡¯s at least worth a try.¡±


    I just stared at him for a moment. I could see myself taking his hand and going downstairs and everything being all right. But just needed it a little longer.


    After a few seconds he sighed. ¡°All right Lewin I¡¯m gonna go downstairs and you can join us if you feel ready. I¡¯ll make a deal with you if you go down there and they should be all work on my fear heights. Does that sound like a deal?¡±


    I knew how hard that must be for him to make slowly, I knotted. ¡° Ok I¡¯ll be down in a little bit. I just need a little longer.¡±


    ¡°All right, then I¡¯ll make sure to save a cupcake for you.¡± Was that he left.


    The room felt hollow with me in it. I sat there, counting my breaths. Trying to your reasonable level.


    She¡¯s not the same dragon.


    The thought in my head over and over as I tried to build up some kind of barrier in my mind. Finally I stood up and put my hand on the door now it trembled, but I had made a decision and I would follow through.


    I was greeted with smiles when I finally came back to the dining room. Everyone was happy and laughing. I tried smiling as well wearing a mask to hide my discomfort. Is morning turned into evening we all satp. We talked, but it was mostly them. I responded to questions doing my best to seem normal. The moments passed. At one point I tried eating a cupcake, but the once sweet treat tasted like as in my mouth. No matter what, I keeped the dragon in the corner of my eye. Little lightning bolt shooting through my stomach every time she switched or made a sudden movement.


    Later, a knock came at the front door, revealing the tour guide. It took only a few moments for our group to move outside and join a larger group of students. Soon, we were all walking toward one of the teleportation circles at the end of the street. After a quick burst of light, we found ourselves in a more commercial area of the Academy. As we walked, the tour guide explained the various buildings and customs. As the tour continued, I felt my unease fade a little. The tour served as a distraction, keeping my mind away from the flames buried in my memory. The major points of the tour included the cafeteria, training grounds, library, classrooms, and a few other spots. At one point, I watched as an older student with glasses got into a tussle with a squirrel over a sandwich. Spoiler alert: the squirrel won, scurrying up a tree with the sandwich in its mouth as the glasses-wearing student hung his head in defeat. But no matter where we went, my eyes never lost sight of the light gray scales that were blended in with the rest of the crowd.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± a girl with pink hair asked the guide. We were currently strolling through a street lined with taverns. She pointed to a particular one where many patrons appeared to be holding candles and not making a sound.


    The guide looked where she was pointing and then back to her. ¡°Around here, when classes let out and the summer campaign season begins, adventuring parties that excel during the school year are given opportunities to intern with guilds. It¡¯s a great chance to gain valuable experience and get your name out there, but not everyone who goes always comes back.¡± A deep sadness lingered in his eyes as he spoke. For a second it looked as if it was a reflection of my own. ¡°This is just a tradition we have around here to remember the fallen.¡± He stared at the tavern for a moment, as if seeing something no one else could. Eventually, he resumed the tour, and began leading us down the street again.


    When the tour concluded, he brought us to a tavern. The sign above the door read ¡°The Floppy Hat.¡± Inside, the bar had a cozy atmosphere. Most of the tables and chairs were filled, but all the patrons wore smiles, happily chatting the night away. As we entered, they greeted us with nods and raised glasses. The bartender, a middle-aged woman, looked up.


    ¡°Hey, Ralph finally brought me some new customers! Took you long enough; I was getting worried you wouldn¡¯t come.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you know me, Sarah. Not even the Lord of Summer can keep me away from this place.¡±


    The woman behind the counter frowned. ¡°You better be careful not to let him hear you say that. He¡¯ll have you running laps till you drop, then make you get up and do it again.¡±


    Ralph waved her comment away with a dismissive hand. Turning back to our group, he said, ¡°All right, everyone, time to order a drink. The first round is on the house. We have a little tradition here at The Crooked Hat where we do a toast for all our new companions.¡±


    It took only a few minutes for our haphazard group to form a line. After a bit of waiting, each of us had our drinks. Once we were all set, Ralph hopped up onto a table.


    ¡°Here¡¯s a toast to living and laughing! In the booze we drink, our sorrows are drowned. We live for today with friends all around. So drink up, my friends, and put your glasses down, for tomorrow we could all be six feet under the ground.¡± As his speech concluded, Ralph and the other patrons raised their glasses and began to drink, prompting many new students to join in. I brought the drink to my lips. The Amber liquid swirled as it went down bringing a slight warmth. As I finish my glass, I felt the promise that it held. All I would have to do is indulge and I would be free from the fear. Free from the memories and free from the pain I would just have to give into the designer and that scared me more than anything else.


    I grew somewhat more comfortable as the night went on. I decided to limit myself to that one initial drink. As I sat there, listening to the music, I felt something resonate with as if the strings of my soul were being plucked. I couldn¡¯t explain it, as if it was almost magic, but as my heartstrings were played the feelings of warmth and happiness began to grow, nudging the fear aside. I felt myself  beginning to relax. Slowly the smile that I wore as a mask became more genuine. I began to get to know my classmates better. At some point, Felix taught Astor a drinking song, and they began singing¡ªcompletely out of tune, I might add¡ªbut the rest of the bar didn¡¯t seem to mind. Even Relia clapped along before laughing when Felix slipped off the table. I watch as Fred lost a few coins to Galdric in a game of dice that I had never seen before.


    As the night stretched on, feelings of wonder and excitement sang to me. Never noticing that the scales of the gray had left my sight.


    ---


    Yes, the school year had truly begun. In some taverns, laughter echoed. In others, patrons held silent vigils until their candles flickered out. The various forces controlling the school awaited in silence. Pages rustled, eyes gleamed, and threads were woven together. And above it all, in an office alone, a figure read a list of names that would never return to the school halls.


    ¡°Devin, Lacy, Susan, Mica, Darius, Tarzel¡­¡± The list was long. Far too long. The pen in his hand trembled as he wrote each name into a book. He recalled each face, tears unshed clouding his mind. What had he not prepared them for? What could he have taught them to help them survive? These were the same thoughts he grappled with every year. The pain tore at him, fueling his determination as one singular thought drove him forward.


    I will not fail them this year. This year, I will make them strong enough to come home

 Ch 6: Lorelie Part 1

    Lorelei liked birds. Of course she had never seen one, but she decided she liked them anyway. Mother always described them so beautifully¡ªlittle creatures covered in feathers that flew in the air. Lorelei didn''t really know what flying was, but Mother said it was like swimming in the air, and that sounded wonderful to her.


    Sometimes, Lorelei would sit and imagine what birds looked like. Whenever she asked Mother why there were no birds in the Dungeon, her mother would give her different answers that were sometimes hard to understand. Mother said that birds needed to fly in the sky, which confused Lorelei even more because she had never seen the sky. A few times, she asked if she could leave and go see the birds, and Mother always said she could when she was older. So, Lorelei was happy to wait.


    Lorelei stretched her little paws and reached out to grasp the air. Her ears perked up and swiveled around, listening. After a moment, she got up and padded down the stone tunnels, her tail flicking back and forth with curiosity.


    Lorelei loved her mother. She was smart and kind and always answered all of Lorelei''s questions. Yes, Lorelei¡¯s mother just had to be the best mother in the whole world!


    As she walked, the sound of metal striking stone echoed through the tunnels ahead. When Lorelei came to an intersection, she paused, her ears swiveling to find the source of the noise. After a few moments, she happily trotted down one of the passageways.


    After turning a few more corners, she found the source of the noise. Sitting back on her haunches, she stared at three miners swinging their picks into the wall. Their movements were strong and quick, just like how she imagined birds flapping their wings, but sadly, they weren¡¯t flying.


    ¡°Hello!¡± she called out, sending her thoughts toward the miners. Lorelei giggled as they jumped a little and looked around. After a few seconds, one of them spotted her and grinned.


    ¡°Ah, it¡¯s you, kid. Sorry, you startled us for a moment.¡±


    Lorelei blinked, trying to remember if being startled was a bad thing. After a moment, she decided to apologize just in case.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry! I didn¡¯t mean to. I was just excited to see you again!¡±


    The man chuckled, and his long red beard swayed back and forth. Lorelei watched it sway, wondering what it would be like to have a beard of her own. Probably not too fun¡ªif her beard were as long as his, she would always be tripping over it!


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    ¡°It¡¯s fine, kid. Don¡¯t worry about it. Here, I brought you something.¡±


    Reaching into a pouch at his side, he pulled out something. With a small flick he tossed it to Lorelei. It landed a few inches away from her. She walked over, sniffing it a few times before poking it with her paw. It smelled okay, so she took a little bite.


    A wave of sweetness filled her mouth as she munched on the treat.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure if you should be giving that to her, Derg. I don¡¯t know if cats can eat that much sugar,¡± one of the other miners said.


    ¡°She¡¯s dungeon-born; she¡¯s not like a normal cat. She¡¯ll be fine. You worry too much, Grang.¡± Derg crossed his heavily muscled arms.


    ¡°You¡¯re probably right, but if anything happened to her, do you know what the dungeon would do to us?¡±


    Lorelei ignored their conversation. All her attention was on the delicious treat she was enjoying. She always looked forward to Derg and the other miners visiting because they always brought her goodies.


    Lorelei¡¯s eyes sparkled with delight as she took another bite. The sweet flavor danced on her tongue, and she couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°Thank you, Derg! It¡¯s the best!¡± she thought, feeling all warm inside.


    As she munched happily, she watched the miners get back to work. They swung their picks with strong arms, hitting the stone with loud thuds. To her, it looked like a dance, a dance she didn¡¯t quite understand. Why did they hit the walls? she wondered, tilting her head. She had asked Derg about it before, but it still puzzled her. Something about trying to find special rocks in the wall. It seemed silly when the rocks around them were perfectly fine.


    She glanced down and noticed some stone fragments that had fallen to the ground. She poked at one with her paw, watching it wobble. She liked this rock; she didn¡¯t see what made any other rocks better than this one, but she figured it was just a dwarf thing.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t happen to know where we could find many gemstones, would you?¡± Derg asked after a few minutes of digging.


    ¡°Nope!¡± she thought back. ¡°Mother says that would be cheating.¡± It¡¯s not like Lorelei could actually tell where any special rocks were hidden. Mother explained it was like a game. She took time and care to hide special rocks in the walls for the miners to find. Lorelei didn¡¯t really understand why Mother liked having the miners in the caves, but it helped her somehow. And, of course, she got treats!


    ¡°Too bad,¡± Derg sighed and leaned on his pick. ¡°Has the dungeon, um, I mean your mother told you if the next floor is ready?¡±


    Lorelei listened for a moment, waiting for her mother¡¯s response. She felt a warm nuzzle as her mother¡¯s mind brushed against hers.


    ¡°Sorry, not yet. Mother says it should be done in a few days,¡± Lorelei thought back.


    ¡°That¡¯s good! The first two floors are almost overflowing with new recruits. That new floor will really help us expand!¡±


    Lorelei¡¯s fur stood on end as a pulse of energy flowed through the walls of the dungeon, blue light shining and lit up the corridors as it passed. Lorelei froze as her mother¡¯s mind touched hers, frantically giving her instructions. She felt confused and didn¡¯t understand what was happening.


    ¡°Mother says you need to leave. Something just entered the dungeon, and she can¡¯t protect you.¡± Louis relayed the message to the miners, who all looked puzzled before their expressions turned to concern.


    ¡°Wait, what does she mean? What¡¯s going on?¡± Grang asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know; she just said that¡­¡± Lorelei¡¯s reply was cut off as the sound of screams echoed from the higher floors of the dungeon.


    The miners froze. One of them even dropped his pick as the sounds grew louder and closer, sending a wave of fear rushing down the hall of the dungeon. As the sound passed through the group, it left a heavy feeling, like something was watching them, as if a hungry beast was stalking its prey. Terrified, Lorelei reached out to her mother, trying to ask what was happening, but for the first time in her life, her mother didn¡¯t reply.