《That One Save I Forgot》


 Logging In

    A headset, hiding behind boxes of useless items, and blanketed by the thin layer of dust sat just out of arms reach. Despite this unfortunate placement Hakeem, a young black male sporting a blue hoodie with strips and red accents, continued on, this time rearranging the tower of boxes between him and the device. Dislocating his shoulder, ever so slightly, his hand finally grasped the fruits of his mild labors. Able to relax he laid on the floor, taking a much-needed breather.


    After getting back up he fixed the closet housing the boxes, went into his kitchen, and took to removing the layer of dirt and grime collecting on the headset by mixing chemicals together. The condition after being cleaned was noticeably better than before, a slight shine could be seen if one looked hard enough. Wrapped within a towel to absorb any excess water it was left on the kitchen counter for a period of time. Taking the initiative Hakeem decided to prepare his PC by connecting wires, running programs for troubleshooting, and cleaning the general area around it.


    Minimizing his current tabs to then begin another application titled "Fallen Arc 2: Online." Sitting down to face the monitor he navigated a startup screen where he customized rudimentary presets, such as play style and video contrast. Continuing on he reached a sign-in screen; Username-Email/Password, or Create New Account. Pressing ''Create New Account'' he proceeded to provide a Username "RippingTide," and a Password for the new account. ''Link Email/Phone Number'' was the next portion he needed to fill out. Forced to only provide one he chose email, phone numbers were too personal to give away. ''Error: This Email has already been registered to an account. Try logging in!''


    - Hakeem: "That doesn''t make sense, the account should''ve been deleted a long time ago?" Backtracking to the login page he vigilantly attempted to crack into his account. Long latent thoughts were reinvigorated as he racked his mind. "I don''t do hard passwords, it''ll have something to do with the game itself... ''********ctiC7'' that has to be it."


    The password was correct, though it was his fourth attempt at it. He then quickly moved through the starting interface, breezing through Terms of Service and technical jargon, to finally reach the start screen. ''Would you like to create a new character, or continue with your previous save..?'' Surprised by the text before him he took time to weigh the options given.


    - Hakeem: "So my character wasn''t deleted, Gray will definitely be jealous. Losing a level 34 account? Shit, I''d be mad too." As he said this the mouse on his screen moved to the right, arriving past the boundary of the display.


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    A blank monitor, having just been powered on, housed the cursor. Booting up, windows pooling with tabs everywhere, Hakeem sent a message to an account by the name ''DarkGraySpectacle,'' "I found my headset! it was behind some boxes. I logged in and apparently my old account and character still exist. Should I make a new character?"


    After waiting for a bit the ding of response rang out, "If you''re telling the truth then you''ve got a unique account on your hands; weren''t you like level 14? I''d use the old save cause you won''t need to spend time going through the tutorials (they''re trash/a waste). Anyways, I''ll hop on in a day or two. Talk more then ??" A green status symbol quickly changed to black, indicating the application being closed on Gray''s end.


    In response to the message he shook his head, a slight smirk gracing his lips. Moving the cursor back to the left screen he clicked ''Continue With Previous Character,'' as instructed by Gray. A synopsis of the character ''Leek'' popped up after waiting through a minimal loading screen. Stats/Investments, Equipment, Skills/Special Skills, Backstory, and more were briefed in sections, providing in meticulous detail every aspect of the character Leek.


    - Hakeem: "Was the game always this overkill, aside from the basic game ideas none of these ring a bell to me. ''Stat Bias: N/A'' does that mean I have no specialties in my character? I''m level 12 though, I must have all my stat points as uninvested." As he continued to skim through each section one somewhat caught his eye. ''Current Location: Rustling Reeds (3).''


    Wondering what the 3 beside the name meant, and dwelling on it momentarily he clicked the final start button. A non-interactive prompt popped up. ''Dive Into Fallen Arc 2: Online With Any Full Stream Headset, And Let Your Mind Run Free! *Put Your Headset On To Begin!*'' Changing places from the rigid chair to a cushioned beanbag, grabbing the device on his way, Hakeem sat down and took a deep breath.


    Pulling the headset over his head, he clicked a button on the side. His body sank into the seat as his muscles relaxed, and facial expressions went blank. Seeping into the immediate surroundings a gentle glow emanated from the device''s screen. The harsh light from the computer monitor faded, as did the prompt it read...


    A.I: "Welcome Back, And Welcome! Your Last Login Date Was 8.9.28, Before Fallen Arc 2: Online Was Released!.. Knowing Your last Experience Will Be A Tad Different Than What''s To Come We Recommend Going Through Our Basic U.I., Controls, and Gameplay Tutorials!" The still air crumbled as these words came from the direction of Hakeem''s thoughts, disguising themselves as his own but to no avail.


    Hakeem: "Gray said to skip the tutorials, so I''ll do that. ''No, Skip Tutorials.'' I swear he better be right on that!" This voice representing Hakeem''s disembodied self spoke, its thoughts just as loud as the words given in response.


    A.I: "Okay! Since You Wish To Proceed We''ll Hold You No Longer. The Vast World Of Fallen Arc 2: Online Awaits You, And Your Choices! Good Luck On Your Adventures... ''Leek''." A chime rang out as these words flew forward, consuming Leek''s mind at breakneck speed. Suddenly overstimulated the mind fell unconscious, fading into whatever that looks like.

 Levels To This

    Within a field of tall swaying grass of yellow, a man of dark complexion stood above it all. The hair atop his head, coarse in nature, remained unmoved by the passing breeze as did the beard attached to his jaw. Afloat above his body the title ''Leek (12)'' showed itself, a slight tint/hue of green causing it to contrast the terrain.


    -Leek: "Bro. Full streaming has come a long way. The U.I. alone is barely noticeable." Bending over slightly, and closing one eye, he focused directly on one of the many crops planted in the vast fields before him. "I can see each individual strand of this hay-thing. How would you even begin designing something so detailed!" Gazing with amazement he frolicked from place, to place, to place, taking in every sensation he could. With passing time he eventually stood still, mouth agape as his eyes fell upon a distant construct. "There''s no way... is that a floating castle!? Confirmed. This game is on another level." He nearly fainted, as the excitement cut off circulation to his brain.


    Once the honeymoon phase eroded, Leek pulled himself from the scenery and properly took in his surroundings. Seas of yellow as far as the eye could see, winding dirt pathways segmenting the ocean of crops, and the impossibly distant floating city. None of these were familiar in any sense, making the warm blowing breeze, shifting environment, and the setting Sun quite unnerving.


    Deciding to leave, in an attempt to locate a nearby town/city, Leek searched his body on the off chance he was equipped with a physical map. He found nothing besides a curved dagger with a reasonably dull edge and a small buckler-esque shield. Putting them both away he started scanning his field of vision. Upon actively looking for it, a floating box depicting the terrain in top-down view revealed itself.


    -Leek: "Why put it so far out to the left, then turn around and lower the opacity to nearly zero?" Putting his hand out to grab the mini-map he dragged it into the center of his vision, using both hands together he increased its size. Pressing an icon of three dots attached to the map he navigated a drop-down menu to which he changed the opacity to a slight translucent, allowing for it to be properly read without restricting his sight.


    The map gave accurate representation to any area it encompassed, stretching to a distance further than Leek''s current horizon. A green circle was centered in the middle of it, within one of the many fields. Relatively distant to it were four red, lightly coloured, circles moving around in a group, taking the paved path rather than cutting through the reeds. Other indicators of life, miniscule at best, were filtered out as to not consume the displayed map.


    -Leek: "Okay, now we''re getting somewhere. I''m the green marker, so all the other ones must be different types of mobs." Processing the newly acquired information proved tactical. "This would be the best time for me to test my capabilities! Light red markers mean weak opponents, at least in most games, and there are only four. I''ll just scope them out and decide how to act from there."


    Taking a deeply shallow breath he crouched downward, letting his presence be masked by the waves of tall crops. Moving eastward, the direction which previously faced his back, he angled his legs enough to keep his stature from deviating from its current set. Intent was on his mind; that to kill. One of two outcomes will result from this expedition of his; running with dignity, or gallantly slaying the monsters who dare taunt him with their presence.


    Reaching the edge of the field he stood in, Leek separated the last layer of crops in blockage of his sight. A thin clearing, used as a walkway to traverse the swamp of crop fields had three monsters passing through, as represented by the mini-map.


    Protruding from atop their elongated bodies were ears, which twitched to nearly every sensory input, covered in straight fur. Limbs swaying with each step, occasionally brushing the ground due to their length, created an ethereal nightmare out of these things, in concept.


    -Leek: "Humanoid bunnies, what kinda freak designed those?" This made his stomach turn, however slight, with disgust. Hopping trains of thought, he inferred on whether "Monsters don''t have descriptions?" Scanning through the collective in search he took note that not one had the descriptor above their heads.


    Stare. In attempt to decipher what exactly his eyes feasted upon Leek stared deeply at these lumbering giants. Taking notice of his presence one of the three gazed back, taking lead as the others turned in response. As they proceeded closer [Wandering Angora (6)] appeared over their heads.


    -Leek: "So focusing on them makes the title pop up. Does it read your mind, or track your eyes to notice what you''re looking at?" Letting his mind become occupied he tested any theory he could, and ceased not with the questions, his intent seeping further into the environment as they crept closer. "Are they given false thoughts, letting them mimic a living being, or just some adaptive behavior programmin-" A headache erupted, throwing his train off its tracks.


    Stumbling back, the pain dispersing quicker than it came, he snapped from the stupor he let himself fall under. Towering before his vulnerable body was one of the [Wandering Angora (6)] up close. Its height easily cleared that of the tall, dwarfing it by nearly two and a half feet. Its eyes holistically fixated on the small existence cowering before it. Confusion as to what it was doing, and why. Regardless of the questions it posed not a sound came from its mouth, or movements, instead letting its eyes tear Leek to pieces with deafening silence.


    -Leek: "Wait... how did it?" His eyes blurred slightly as they moved, looking again at the mini-map. There were light red coloured markers surrounding his yellow. Three coming from the west, the one in front of him, and the other two still standing on the path. "Six? There was only four... three!?" As his frail voice let these words drip from his mouth, a change occurred, the shock of predicament loosened its stranglehold on him.


    Rooting one foot in the ground and refusing to acknowledge any presence near him he launched forward, heading southeast in direction. Angled just enough he was able to avoid the two who were further back on the path. Darting from the field he hid in, onto the paved path, and into the field parallel to his own; entering only surface level deep. The [Wandering Angora (6)] lagged a fair bit behind, as they spent time consolidating in force before pursuing, grouped together into a pseudo wall.


    As his mind began to slow in thought a solution came to mind. Opening a dropdown menu, positioned to the right of the mini-map, he scrolled down to the bottom. Finding what he was looking for, the ''Sign-Out'' option. Leek wasted no time in logging out of the game... to no avail. ''You''re Within The Vicinity Of A Potentially Hostile Mob. Logging Out Will Leave Your Character Susceptible To Death And Looting. ''Proceed? (Y/N)''''


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    -Leek: "Dammit. There''s no point if I die anyways." He selected ''N'' in response to the prompt. The choice leaving him oozing with disdain for the log-out system. "Who decided to add that as a feature in a live-service game? That''s so stupid."


    Reacting to his decision the system chimed, ''Okay! This Penalty Won''t Apply Once You Enter A Neutral Zone Or Leave The Vicinity Of Any Potentially Hostile Mobs!'' Once Leek read through the pop-up in its entirety the tab closed itself, reminding him of the unprecedented situation he faced.


    -Leek: "Well," an underhanded sigh slipped through his teeth, "If I have no other choice, so be it." Leek began to quickly run his hands throughout his avatar, pulling out the dull Dagger which rested on his person, equipping it to his left hand. Taking the bit more time he bought for himself, Leek strongly analyzed the in-game map located to his left. "How did they go from three to six?" The light red markers continued closer.


    His conviction solidified as his thoughts came to a consensus. Creeping backwards, moving deeper through the field he now inhabited, Leek''s grip tightened around his Daggers handle, testing the craftsmanship of whom, creator of such a currently crude item.


    Three of six [Wandering Angora (6)] set foot into the, relatively low, crop field which shielded their sight from placing the cowering human they searched for. The nearly grounded arms protruding from their torso swayed through the pool of yellow, parting it as they moved forward ahead.


    Evading these apparent attacks, even by a inch, Leek pushed his body backwards, committing further to this minor retreat. Again. And again. Every swing resulted in greater distance. Then, through a half step, a cold feeling sprang itself into feeling; the back being where it stood first.


    -Leek: "What!?" Lifting his head up slowly, in hopes his thought was unfounded, Leek''s eyes fell upon a yellow mountain-like figure, above its head [Wandering Angora (6)] sat itself. "Did I not." Looking once again at the miniature map depicting the surrounding land, seven light-red markers surrounded him, only one located to his back, the east.


    Focusing on his left hand, a slight shake prefaced an abrupt turn. The dagger''s teeth, having now been grinded down to minor stubs due to time, set to sink itself directly into the one east of Leek.


    Taking notice, it jumped back in clear avoidance. It stood still, tilting its head to the right, ears twitching continuously. The sense of emptiness, which sat abundant till this moment, became observable in nature; shifting. Leek''s heart began to palpitate, leaving his chest to heave with each extraneous breath; in tandem the fur/hair thickly coating the [Wandering Angora (6)] straightened, to then curl tightly. The creatures split upper lip retracted to expose numerous rows of serrated fang-like teeth, the front four peering like two pairs of twin daggers.


    While this occurred the air now had a nearly tangible thickness to it, as consistent as blood. The [Wandering Angora (6)] could be felt tugging at Leek''s spine, breathing down his neck, and piercing his back with sweltering needles/pins.


    -Leek: Beads of sweat perspired on his forehead as he was forced onto one knee. "GET UP," he shouted at his self. His feet began to move together once again, rapidly succeeding one another. His center of mass remained low. The dagger he fashioned in his hand prepared to slash, as tension built up from the stance Leek held as he dashed to the monster in his path.


    After reaching the creature, of whose icon now flaunted the title [Wandering Angora (7)], Leek released all the built-up force he had access to. He shot forward in the manner of a fencing straight. Lacking distance he got into close proximity, wagering on the cumbersome movements it portrayed before. The form of his attack greatly deviated from his attempted thought, shining light on his lack of discipline.


    His strike landed on the now power gorging monster, just above its waistline. The dagger pierced the fur surface of the [Wandering Angora (7)]. The red highlighting the entirety of the icon above the monster moved itself backwards partially, in response to the damage it sustained at the hands of Leek. Around (2/11) vanished from the bar.


    -Leek: "After something so fatal I scratched it at best!? And what the fuck is with my stance, I had no problem moving my body before." Thinking this to himself Leek once again fell into inherent questioning, "Maybe this has to do with my stats, would explain why only after my attac-"


    Cutting through his thoughts, Leek spent little time in evading the retaliation from the [Wandering Angora (7)]. Though he did get grazed, scraping off a fraction from his pool of health (3/14). Compressing again Leek sprang into a counter, as the left portion of its torso was left exposed after its swatting motion by its left arm. The dagger seeped into the coarse coating once again, sitting longer in the side of its abdomen.


    Wailing in apparent pain the creature, this time at an effective speed, threw back at the source of its agony. Recognizing a threat, the Angora picked up its pace. Sweeping through the tall grass, using the abnormal length of its arms to comb through it all.


    -Leek: In a fair panic Leek proceeded to backpedal, "I''m still nearly six levels above it, regardless of stats how is this not a slaughter?" Through this thought he maneuvered south, as the accumulation of monsters, informed by the mini-map, were to his north/west. Given this lead Hakeem accrued he took a glance at the status page regarding his character.


    Status Page: Leek (12)


    [ Level Skill Points: 7 ]


    HP 14(+2)


    SPD 7(+1)


    VIT 3(-0)


    TEQ 0(-0)


    EVN 2(+1)


    SSK 0(+0)


    [ LUCK: 7 ](+5)


    Inventory: Dagger (Poor), Shield (Fair), Clothing (Used), Shoes (Poor), (4)Elixir: Vitality/Basic, Coin Pouch: 32/Poor, (17)Angora Tails: Rotten


    ""


    Standing a distance away atop an incline, a person watched the scene play out between Leek and lumbering attackers. Regardless of their uninvolved status they, a figure of strong build and stature, commented on the situation.


    -???: "What exactly is that Belvirian doing?" A deep sigh eased its way through their lungs, the sheathed saber on their hilt did the same. "I can tell by their aura that they''re holding back significantly; enough to get themselves killed."


    ""


    -Leek: "The shield is nothing new, but these potions..." Reaching into the pockets of his jacket, which extended to nearly match that of a robe, he managed to fumble with three bottles, each filled with a dense liquid. "Vitality, huh? I''ll assume it''s in stead of an in-game base defense, that''s a pity." With the limited time he had left Leek, anticipating the taste, downed two of the slugging liquids.


    The crowding environment lightened itself in time to allow evasion of the trailing [Wandering Angora (7)] and it''s not far behind brethren. Leek, ducking below the two reaching arms of the Angora, threw one of the empty Elixir bottles point-blank at its exposed mouth. Shattered pieces of glass clouded the Angora''s vision and cut into its face/eyes. As the Angora became stunned he lunged forward, driving his dagger once again into it. (2/11) of its Health Points remained after adding the compiled damage.


    -Leek: "Seems to be very useful. I wonder if those buffs stacked?" Before he finished Leek pulled the weapon out of the Angora, and placed it into its neck, ridding it of any left-over Health Points. "I''ll have to distribute my stat points, there''s just too many to take on individually otherwise."


    Darting away from the collapsed [Wandering Angora (7)] Leek utilized incremental gaps in distance to place levels into his character, totaling four of the seven. After this he drank one of his last two bottles of Elixir.


    -Leek: Halting his retreat and equipping the shield from his person, which was small in nature, Leek planted both his feet to face his pursuers and exclaimed for all to hear. "I''m getting the hang of this, SO LET''S PLAY!"

 Ways To Go

    "SO LET''S PLAY!" He exclaimed for all to hear.


    Bolting forward with due confidence and ignoring his previously reclusive actions, Leek singled out the closest Angora to him. The heavy feeling that wove itself into Leek''s psyche held little to its previous preeminence as the heaving done to catch his breath slowed. The air thinned enough to give slack to his airways.


    Bringing the blade in his hand to the right arm of the Angora he slashed violently, allowing the teeth of his blade to dig into the monster; damage taken totaled (5/11). The Angora snatched at Leek, bringing him to its mouth where it chomped into his right arm; a strong crunch reverberated through the air.


    Leek''s arm remained untouched, in relativity to the attempt at removing it, as Leek managed to wedge the buckler shield between the Angora''s clasping jaws. A fair chunk seemed to be taken out of it as the bite forced it to partially collapse, stopping only at the reinforced center.


    In the tense situation cracks throughout the shield showed themselves, connecting horizontally, leaving the shields appearance to that of a brittle material.


    Using his right arm as leverage Leek pulled himself up to above eye level. Stabbing downward he shoved the knife into the Angora''s head, reaching the middle ear and rupturing its eardrum. It''s health points fell to (2/11). The now death ridden Angora wailed uncontrollably, grasping its ear as it recoiled violently.


    Ahead of any follow up Leek fell back into the grass, the air being knocked out of his lungs. Trifling little of his time he gathered his composure quickly, scrambling to his feet/to gather his footing in hope to profit from the disarray. Gripping his knife while shooting forward, he quickly realised his right hand held nothing but a balled fist. The daggar he flaunted seemed to fancy itself in the grass where Leek had fallen.


    Leek: "You can lose an item by dropping it on accident. Annoying." Through these words he picked his daggar back up. Pivoting to reface the Angora, which has recovered from the shock enough to attack once more, he swung his left arm to catch the Angora''s. The clash knocked out the remaining health, while a deductible was taken from his own pool, (7/12) remained.


    The towering monster fell lifeless to the ground, which was hard to focus on as his hand was still reverberating violently as the metal blade shook his Radius and Ulna, the bones in his forearm. 1/3 of his health points in one equal exchange; robbery is closer to what that felt like.


    Each of the Seven lingering Angora found themselves succumbing systematically to the very same blade. In this action Leek tweaked with his strategy of approach, deciding to commit to an evasive defense and a quick offensive. Dealing less damage, in trade-off for speed would allow for an elongated engage, which is crucial with the rest horde. Lacking armour also played a factor.


    Status Page: Leek (12)


    [ Level Skill Points: 3 ]


    HP  14(+2)


    SPD  8(+2)


    VIT  3(-0)


    TEQ 2(+2)


    EVN 3(+2)


    SSK 0(+0)


    [ LUCK: 7 ](+5)


    Inventory: Dagger(Poor), Shield (Poor), Clothing (Used), Shoes (Poor), (1)Elixir: Vitality/Basic, Coin Pouch: 32/Poor, (17)Angora Tails: Rotten, (9)Angora Tails: Basic/Fresh, (1)Empty Bottles


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    During the carnage Leek sustained two minor blows, taking three health between the two, and a major one taking three in itself; little life left to even think about what was lost, and why.


    The surroundings came back to him once he could consciously think about catching the rest of his breath. A figure, different from the one''s life he had just taken moved closer.


    His health points, which seemed to recover at a regular interval only had taken his amount to (3/14) of full,  far too little to think about struggling again. Even the elixirs he had taken, of which he now only has one wore off, reminding him of the air''s viscosity.


    - ???: "Looks like I was too late to intervene." The man who arrived with a hold on his sheathed sword put his saber to rest. "I apologize greatly for my lack of action. Based on his aura I didn''t assume the worst."


    - Leek: "It''s fine. I had it in the end, so no hard feelings." He proceeded to put his hand out, insinuating a handshake. Meeting the expectation the man firmly shook his hand, "My name is.. Leek. You?"


    -???: "My name is Reighley, nice to meet you Leek. Were you passing through?"


    -Leek: "I guess you could say that. I just logged into the game so this is just where I got off last time I played, back in the original Fallen Arc days."


    -Reighley: "''Fallen Arc'' you say? The knowledge that you Belvirian''s from such long lives is fairly striking. I have lived more of a longer life, but even I cannot compare to your kind."


    -Leek: "Yeah, I guess." He said, raising an eyebrow to whether the person before him was roleplaying some character. "Anyways. Do you know where the nearest hub area would be? I want to play around with game mechanics some more before doing anything serious."


    -Reighley: "I do believe the nearest town you would be referring too would be..." Reaching into his person he unrolled a map, scanning it briefly to respond, "To our west. The main import of the town is labour, in which they use to manage these crop fields."


    Looking into the distance Leek stood there in thought, as his eyes were faced with the setting Sun. The decaying bodies of the Angora littered the ground around him, some hidden by the tall grass. The silence between the two developed as the sounds of the whistling breeze faded into hearing.


    -Reighley: "If you depart now there would be ample sunlight left to take a look around; forty-eight or so minutes left till dark."


    -Leek: "Yeah, guess I''ll do that." Turning his head to face the man, who calmed his hold to his saber as reflex, he continues, "Can I add you as a friend? I know one person who plays, but he can''t get on for a couple days, I''ll try not to bug you too much!"


    -Reighley: "Yes, of course. I accept your declaration of friendship." Putting his hand out again, this time lacking the sense of radiating formality, Reighley shook Leek''s hand.


    *Bing* a brief chime rang out, alerting only Leek to its presence. ''You have gained a relationship with Reighley; due to a special bond you have progressed past ''Acquaintance,'' becoming a ''Friend.''"


    After a brief exchange, explaining Reighley''s want to delay his departure, Leek set forth to the town residing to the west. Weaving in and out of the tall brush to cut down on travel time, he arrived. Fourteen minutes of his time had been used for the journey.


    The path leading into the vast crop fields was plentiful in people, the majority of who were flowing back into the town in acknowledgement of the coming darkness. The buildings making up the town were jagged in nature, having rusted over in the places exposed metals were in use. The rooftops made up of flat surfaces, angled minorly in an attempt to allow for the rid of pooling still water.


    In an awestricken silence, Leek filed into place, walking behind the nearest person in mirror. The dirt path, once reaching the town limit, met together with a road/walkway paved with a crude quality concrete which had rooting cracks throughout its entire build. Little short of each person was in a group of three or more, the very occasional pair of two, they moved smoothly towards the second furthest building on the right.


    As to what apparently integral service it provided was left to interpretation. No signage hung outside, at least from the angle he stood, so he chose to ask once he enters and, if needed, apologize later.

 Choices To Learn

    The influx of people continued closer to the building. It could be noticed, though not as much of as a sore thumb, that he stuck out against the crowd.


    Each person was in groups of three, and the occasional pairings of two. Rather than walking without thought he decided to pass the time by tuning into the conversations going on around him.


    -Random (1): "Dude this hall is nothing like yesterday, I might have to sell some items to last till tomorrow." The individual spoke to the two others in his group. "Looking at everyone else I can''t but think the finders fee will be lower than usual!" Anger, with an undertone of disappointment spread amongst the three.


    Shifting through the other noise, Leek''s ears set upon another conversation, this one taking place behind him.


    -Random (2): "That was stupid, like they came after us purposefully. Really unnerving how close they get, and how many!" Cutting him off, one of the four voices tangling together in the group spoke up, "They stay in good farming places, makes it so frustrating with even new ge-"


    These words were rudely interrupted by a person waving, their intent focused presumably behind Leek. The group behind him were skeptical as to what the goal was of this brazen person.


    As he continued to wave a noticeable expression of confusion on Leek, and the four men''s faces, was taken into account. To clarify the target of their meaning they pointed at Leek directly, motioning for him to come up and join them. Eventually deciding to instead walk towards him themselves.


    -Random (3): "Hey! I saw you looking before. Did you want something?" The man said. Leek remained reserved, partially ignoring his friendly approach. "By the way my name is Yaner, I and my friends finished discussing our yield."


    This man, Yaner, continued to pick at the ice between himself and Leek, chipping away slowly in hopes of a more relaxing demeanor.


    -Yaner: "What did you able to gather in the fields? We got some nice crops from deep mid-east. You?" He held his tongue for a response, his eyes telling of a faint anticipation.


    -Leek: "Uh. I got a couple Angora tails." Pulling one of the tails from his inventory to show Yaner, Leek rotates the puff ball as he himself examines the item he had yet to look at closely. "Some of them are spoiled though" he said, in the hopes of curbing any enthusiasm.


    Yaner: "WHAT! You killed one those fucking things!?" Reaching out to grab the fluffy ball, only pulling his hand back in response to Leek''s unchanged expression. He could feel the blood flowing through his veins as his heart awoke for a moment. "J-Just how many do you have?" He asked with potent sincerity.


    -Leek: "I have like three that are still good." He put the singular tail back into his pocket, suspicious as to the reaction inadvertently garnered, and he did not want to prolong the situation. "Do you happen to know their usage, I just so happened onto those monsters?"


    Looking back up in expectation to still see the perplexed face of Yaner, but rather Leek was standing alone. The man had regrouped with his friends, talking in the nature of someone trying to convince another of an oddity.


    During his talk his hand jested towards Leek''s direction. The other two men, who were all covered torso to toe in dirt stained clothing, stood their skeptically as their friend seemed to rant before them. After a few moments one of the men stopped him in his faux hysterical stupor, and simply walked over to Leek and began speaking.


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    -Random (1): "Hello, my associate here says you''re in possession of some tails?" One eyebrow was slightly raised as he asked this question. Not letting the air become still he continued, "Do you, or do you not. We don''t care, just want to know. Our time is not good to be spoiled!" Pushing further for a response he took a step closer.


    -Leek: "Uhmm... I have just two of them." A stutter almost slipped from his lips. "Why does it matter to you."


    The men turned their heads to face one another, speaking in a code of body language, not uttering a single coherent word before turning back to him.


    -Random (2): "You should''ve said somethin sooner. We can buy those off you." Moving in closer he patted Leek on the chest, using the back of his hand, in a friendly gesture. "Just under market price good for you. We can do twenty-nine half bids for both!"


    The men gave the feeling of three separately moving parts coming together to produce a subpar in function multi-tool. The knowledge of their previous frustration left room for credible foul play in what they spoke. The pushy dynamic they had could be seen by anyone, especially Leek, who knew about his own glaring lack of knowledge.


    -Leek: "How many rooms would that get me in the local inn, or a hostel?" To not accentuate his bargaining disadvantage Leek stood firm, holding his face in a neutral expression.


    -Random (2): Before answering the man pulled on his lacking chin hair. "That would be like four days or so, assuming you want them for the day and night. Eleven days, maybe, if you take the usual day only." He thought for a moment before, "Don''t forget prices of rooms change though, not really going down most the time."


    -Leek: The information provided helped in understanding just the amount being offered. "That sounds fine. You all seem trustable so I''m willing to sell them." Pulling back out two Angora tails, placing them both into his left hand. He gave them to the First Random man; the self-imposing leader.


    -Random (1): A look of surprise took him aback for a second, to then be wiped away. He accepted the two severed appendages. "These are good... and real. Just how did you get these two tails?" Mild shock restrained him from overreacting. "Did you actually kill them, or maybe they died already when you got there."


    -Leek: He debated with his integrity for a moment. "They were already dead when I got there, some guy with a scabbard did them in." His heart skipped one beat in congruence to his blatant lie.


    The anticipation faded with his words, as the men took out a small bag. When opening it many stick like rods could be seen. A particular aspect of each was the missing segments, there were multiple variations, some missing a greater chuck than others. He started to count individual ''bids'' until he hit twenty-nine, ensuring the intended amount was present. He threw the bag into the air one time before handing it calmly to Leek.


    He accepted the exchange. Looking at the ''bids'' it could be noticed that they all had a triangular chunk missing from one half, varying in three.


    -Leek: Under his breath he mentioned, "These look kinda like flattened metal pocky candies." Pocketing the items, he quickly looked at his inventory.


    Inventory: Dagger(Poor), Shield (Poor), Clothing (Used), Shoes (Poor), (1)Elixir: Vitality/Basic, Coin Pouch: 177/Poor, (17)Angora Tails: Rotten, (7)Angora Tails: Basic/Fresh, (1)Empty Bottle


    The men having gained what they wanted gave a brisk farewell, and departed. Their direction having changed from the building they were set on.


    -Leek: "Hundred seventy-seven take away 32.. divided by..." Thinking to himself he translated the conversion rate of the half bids into his coin pouch. "Such a weird way of holding currency."


    Breaking up his thoughts, which were vaguely connected through internal monologue, he continued, "The Yaner guy seems to be kinda honest, but the other ones are questionable at best. probably should have gave them just one."


    As he inched forward with the rest of the people his draw became not the building, but instead the destination of Yaner and his group.


    The question of whether following them would be the most ideal choice. He had nothing but questions on how to take about from here, so the building gave the best chance of having helpful NPC''s filled with information.


    The men got further away, eventually taking a left to arrive out of sight for a moment. A structure which remained rigidly into the ground could be found again, but people who moved with purpose, on their own accord, could be lost in the wind permanently even if searched for thoroughly.


    To this Leek found his feet, not following any explicit instruction, tailing the suspicious bunch. His mind not finding any excuse worth stopping them.

 Places To Be

    The streets of the town were in disrepair. Jagged stones were scattered irregularly throughout the road, with deposits of a nearly viscous feeling gravel accompanying them. Personal qualities of the buildings faded the further one went, becoming uniform in their lack of proper structure.


    Very little people were in view, and those who were walked with a lagging sense of purpose. Dirt covered them from beard to toe, their clothing seeming to have solidified from the many dried stains covering it.


    Standing out from the foreground were the three men, who included Yaner. They conversed to one another, entertaining themselves in conversation as there was nothing else they could do other than continue to walk.


    Leek, in tail of the men, made a point on the distance they''ve all travelled from the original point they met. What felt upwards of three miles got to grow past the point of interest. His feet which moved with a consistent sense of purpose only now did so under the pretense of reward.


    Deciding against figuring out what it is they''re up to Leek''s feet slowed to a stop. Any step further would be wasted at this point.


    Not far from the begrudgingly backtracking Leek, the men came to an abrupt stop and, in file, slipped quickly into a space between two buildings. One of the three, before disappearing behind the corner, took a look around.


    Taking in the immediate vicinity, and judging on such, the lagging man followed in fashion behind the other two.


    -Leek: "Finally, something interesting!" Out of excitement he skipped, stopping himself once he arrived within earshot, but still safely out of sight.


    -??: An unfamiliar voice spoke, "Did we not go through this enough!? You do not call for me unless we talking about debt. Do you know how hard it was to simply buy myself the time to even get out here?" A moment was taken for the words to dissipate into the surroundings.


    - Random (1): "Yes. I understand, but this time we have items of value." A stutter that prefaced his point was forced down, in attempt to shield his fractured pride. "There was a Boy, who we assume is an aspiring adventurer, and more than likely Belvi-" His words were cut off.


    -??: "THE POINT!?" The unfamiliar voice demanded with an overtly apparent waning patience, and growing attitude.


    -Random (2): "The boy had Angora tails on his person. Because the strict Guild regulations, we don''t look for risk in finding a buyer on our own." The words waited for a moment, likely thirsting for response, but then continued, "We''re looking for you to take them in exchange for a large discounted price."


    -Random (1): "Y-Yes! And we think we''d be able to milk the boy for more." Trying to take lead in the conversation again his words budged into the conversation.


    -??: "Milking the boy for his worth is given." His dismissive tone died down a bit with this tangent, "I do like your proposed little deal though... 17 bids will be my only offer; opinion?"


    -Random (1): "We should thin-"


    Random 2: "DEAL." Giving little thought to the decision making of ''Random (1)'' he spouted off at the accepting man''s deal. "Anything past this is going up in the air though, until we can properly work this out."


    -??: "I like your boldness. You should be the vocal representative for your rag-tag triad more often." A clanking of metal could be heard, replacing any prior voices as they all went silent.


    If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    The exchange between the bids and Angora tails could be assumed to have taken place as footsteps, trailing off out of sight, and kicked up ground could be heard by a hair.


    Leek leaned in closer, struggling to make out any whispered words. He heard nothing, only silence enveloped the claustrophobic alley, of which came to an abrupt end as Yaner and the others filed out of the buildings'' gap.


    They shared a conversation of generally dispensable material. Irritation grew for ''Random (2)'' as his actions were seen as to usurp the groups democratic power dynamic. A nerve was struck, though it seems to be less on Yaner''s part and more so from ''Random (1).''


    They travelled further into the destitute section of town, talking on about how they should conduct business when presented with decisions in the future.


    -Leek: "Why did they accept less than what they paid me?" This thought played back in his head on temporary loop, a minute detail that made all the difference to him. "Anyways. lemme try that building now."


    In acknowledgement of potential business hours he departed directly for the "second furthest building on the right" he took note of before, strutting along at a fair pace to achieve this.


    The time ticked away as Leek backtracked his way into becoming lost. Through logic he progressed, but the same process'' resulted in confusion the further back he went. Eventually he realized the fact that he was just stumbling about, with an informed ignorance of the direction he should be heading in. Reluctantly he looked at the translucent mini-map in his peripheral vision to arrive at the ''front'' of the town.


    He identified the building he spent this time searching for, and approached duly so. Only one door, in a set of two, was visible from the street. When he grabbed the knob to enter the establishment, independent of his actions, the handle turned and the door opened.


    A Lady, sporting a blackish grey pantsuit with a white blouse underneath, was visible in the doorway. Her movements seemed frantic, Leek''s presence alone passed her by. He jumped back slightly as she exited fully, and turned to lock the door behind her, the many pieces of paper in her hand balancing gently as to not tumble.


    As she set off to leave the area entirely the Lady narrowly missed colliding with Leek, as his reflexes came into use. Two folders she clung onto with the tips of her fingers did slip from her grasp. One remained proper, but the other showed it content mildly scattered on the ground.


    -Lady: "You scared the almighty shit out of me!" Before speaking further she quickly bent over to reorganize the fallen papers. "Hopefully you''re not here for service. We closed nearly thirty-seven minutes ago." In her swiftness she did not gander in Leek''s direction, nor lifted her head to greet him. "Come back first thing tomorrow, though i''d prefer if you wouldn''t, and take up any grievances or matters then."


    She spent little time on the ground, as during her words she had recommenced in leaving. The only accessory on her person that was not of blatant utility was the black pocket watch hiding in the watch pocket of her pants, the chain was visible.


    -Leek: Taken aback by the frozen shoulder he decided carefully how he wanted to follow up. "Hey! What exactly is the point of this place anyways, I just saw everyone else come through?" Rethinking about his approach, he spoke to slightly clarify his word. "Is this like the town hall, and can I get quests from here?"


    -Lady: Refusing to stop just for a response her speed dropped naught, but she did speak. "This is a Guild Association Subsidiary hall, we deal primarily in agriculture, as to manage the crop output of this land chunk. You''re able to go through general sign-up at this location for any Guild Associated game, profession, trade, or business." Breaking up her speech slightly, she continued, "We open at 1100-1400 at minimum capacity, then 1400-2015 at required capacity. First come, first served, no exceptions. This rule includes paid local requests."


    As she paced away Leek followed, from a distance, as he did not want to interpret misheard information from his own blunder or come off as a trailing creep to outside observers.


    -Leek: "Okay. W-what''s your name?" He asked initially out of reflex, but through the stutter he decided against rescinding his question. "Your first one of course."


    -Lady: For a fickle moment she stopped her advance. Then, snapping from her induced stupor she marched forward again though at an albeit slower constant. "I don''t have much of one. I go by Elle, but if you so wish call me Aubrielle, my first name." She turned her head to give a side glance, and quickly turned ahead once more.


    -Leek: "Alright then, Elle. I''ll see ya''ll in the morning I guess." A hand of his rose to wave at the passing woman, his legs not following her past the point of their conversations end.


    -Elle: The last words she spoke to him were, "So it seems." Another sentence sputtering from her curious mouth once she was alone, "Does he not comprehend disinterest." A flat grin could be seen hanging from her face, if taken from a peculiar angle.

 Logging Out

    Standing cluelessly in the street, looking around at the dark atmosphere, Leek took in the surreal feeling of being transported to another world through the medium of playing a video game. The roughness of the town was lost partially in its innate contrast between times of day


    A sense of tiredness was absent from his mentality, jerking the immersion slightly. In this he set out for a place to rest his digital head, disregarding the lack of physical fatigue he felt. Little could be done as darkness forced everyone of valuable knowledge into hiding.


    Travelling for a while, before eventually checking his mini-map for guidance, he found an establishment selling the service he was searching for, overnight shelter. The twin doors creaked as they were separated from one another.


    A lit room, thriving off the open flames lining the walls, had within it an empty waiting room. A desk filled to its brim with individual pieces of paper, and tied folders, placed distance between anyone entering and the woman behind it.


    -Worker: Making herself known, by raising her hands, the woman greeted the patron. "Welcome in! What can we do for you this evening?" The overtly friendly attitude was a fresh take from that of Elle.


    -Leek: "Hello, I''m looking to get a room... if ya''ll don''t mind." He let out a muffled chuckle, trying to keep in mind the subjective nature of humor. "How much for three nights?"


    -Worker: "That would be 20 half bids" A smile erupting on her face the moments neither of the two were speaking. "We have seven open rooms. No belongings are permitted to be left in rooms, unless booking for a full day and night. Your initial room may be given to another patron, as you''re only booking for the nights, but one will be reserved for your stay regardless."


    -Leek: "Weird rules, but sure." Sparing no time to barter he simply took the deal at face value, pulling out the needed payment from his seemingly bottomless pockets. The bids were nicely wrapped in a pouch, each standing vertical for better assortment. "I added two on top, as a thanks for the hospitality." A wink finished his sentence.


    -Worker: "Well thank-you very much." Her hand takes the cash substitute, to then disappear behind the fair amount of documentation on the desk. "Gimme a moment to get the written agreement." Her right hand swiftfully wrote a string of sentences, each coming together in detail. "I''ve wrtiten it all out on here, read it over if you want, but your name is all i''ll need you to sign at the bottom here."


    Skimming through the passage, with due caution, he took in the jist of the information he''d be signing, which through itself was not far in any aspect from what the worker had spoken. She held out a metal tipped feather in the assumption it would be needed. Meeting this forethought he took the pseudo-pen in his left hand.


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    -Leek: A slight confusion was taken into account as to whether ''Leek,'' his in-game name was the intended signature. He spoke to himself softly, "Leek it is i guess," the inked paper followed his words.


    -Worker: "Everything is in order... Mr. Leek, I can give you your room key in just a moment." Retracting both the feather and the piece of refined papyrus she quickly replaced them with the keycard she spoke of. It was made of a thin plastic-like material that was cheap to the touch.


    The bottom of the card had a copy of Leek''s signature, if it could even be called that.


    Leek: "So do I just walk into any empty room... or" Having already walked a step away he noticed his words did not reach the worker. Rather than restate his question he continued to a room.


    A passageway to the right of the front desk, when facing it from the entrance, lead into a rundown hotel-like lobby. There were doors on both the left and right walls, each facing one another in pairings of two.


    No visual queue gave tell of whether someone occupied the room, but in its stead a feeling of presence was given off from behind the doors; you could tell, in a most vague sense, the personality of the occupant.


    He stopped after arriving at the foot of a door which gave off a sense of yearning, emptiness. Though he could easily discern between this one and any other before, there was no guarantee the feeling was true to the occupation.


    With caution he opened the door, turning the hybrid handle-knob slowly, and poked his head to see inside. There was a single bed in the back corner, beside it a nightstand with a small lantern atop it, a door which seemed to lead to a bathroom, and no windows in sight.


    -Leek: An eyebrow was raised to the state of the interior, confusion mixed into what he had been expecting. "Geez, this place is not worth the money. Not even actual lights, just a damn lantern." These words echoed vividly against the walls and right back at Leek. "I gotta make some money to do better than this shit. Even in video games i''m broke." The joke raised his spirits slightly.


    Taking a seat on the bed he aimed to ponder about nothing in particular. *Chime* A noise startled him to a degree as he sat.


    ''Do you wish to log-out, or go to sleep?'' The familiar looking prompt flashed before his face in congruence to the noise.


    -Leek: "Oh yea, don''t know why I didn''t think they''d carry over this feature." The thoughts of Fallen Arc trickled in as he took into account any similarities of the two games.


    When compared to one another you could assume the two games were produced independently; Fallen Arc 2: online by a AAA studio, and the first being an indie production, both sharing only the same IP.


    Focusing his eyes again, the prompt still clogging his field of vision, he took in one more look at the room he sat within. The walls gave nothing short of a sense of loneliness, this in spite of the fact they both were alone together.


    Leek, getting over the predisposed novelty of the humbling walls chose the option to ''log-out.'' This decision taking into account what it was ''go to sleep'' meant in context of the game.


    The prompt changed in accordance with his response, ''Have A Great Time, We Await Your Return!'' These words graced Leek''s mind just before everything became blurry. The ground got closer and the roof remained under his left foot, the walls twisting to choke the air from his lungs... then nothing but unconscious sights were perceivable.

 Start Date

    He awoke on the malleable seat in his room. Aside from his two computer monitors little light penetrated the deep dark he was surrounded by. Under his feet as he stood up were the cables connecting his tower to his Full Stream headset, which he gently placed into the indented beanbag.


    The room he stood in connected to a personal bathroom. He entered without closing the door. After washing his face with water, and staring at his reflection for a fair bit, he decided to brush his teeth and take a quick shower.


    Exiting the bathroom after he dried off, he went through his drawer to grab a specific blue and white striped tracksuit.


    His closet, made up nearly of the exact same article of clothing, in different shades of colours, was fairly empty for its size. Though the amount he had, outside of its relativity to the closet was little to scoff at.


    The elevated floor was covered in pairs of shoes, any being interchangeable with another as they were lackluster in personality.


    He laced up a pair of black sneakers, grabbed his keys, then left the house. He closed the door behind him, seemingly forgetting to lock it, yet began into a mild sprint.


    The sky was dark, as the Sun could no longer be seen past the high rising apartment buildings, and the wind held a cool feeling as it brushed past. Lamp posts provided a bit of ambient light to give view to the pavement below.


    His running form was that of a casual, relaxed movements that weren''t unnecessary but not restrictive.


    On his run, Hakeem navigated the winding roads. Many stores were closed until till the next day of business. Regardless of this there was one, a gas station resembling corner store, that still allowed approach of any stragglers through s night.


    Coming down to a brisk walking pace, then to a normal one, he entered the establishment.


    Wasting little time Hakeem quickly navigated the many identical aisles, cutting through them to reach his destination, the drink section.


    A wall of refrigerated drinks, too many to list individually, lined up in unison. He grabbed a select few, four in total. Stacking three into his right arm, and the last in the other. He went directly to the self-checkout and bought the items; using only a complex number he put into the machine that fed on his consumerism.


    Exiting this store Hakeem returned to a jog once more, in the direction he came from initially, with the four drinks in tow. Despite the many chances he had to place his items into a bag he refused all of them, going about holding two in each arm this time.


    As he gained ground the lamppost above him would give an occasional spotlight. The flickering, which even grew roots that cracked the concrete pavement, were trying to light his way home.


    He arrived, entered the home, and his room, to then sit in front of his right monitor. Placing three of the drinks into a mini-fridge that resided underneath his computer desk.


    Knowing of the time he had to burn Hakeem spent his next couple hours alternating between message boards, video-games, videos, and other mind numbing tasks.


    Entranced by his new routine Hakeem took frantically to the notification reminding him of the game he was waiting for so patiently. He shook the spook off before preparing to head back into the digital game-scape.


    Hakeem wrapped up his tasks. Closing any tab he had opened, turning the monitor off, and putting it into sleep mode. He turned off a desk lamp that give the only bit of direct light into the room.


    Getting up up from the seat he went to the alluring beanbag he had awaiting him. His Full Stream headset residing within an indent created by his weight. Moving it out from his way Hakeem took its place, sitting on the beanbag.


    -Hakeem: He shifted in place, the squishy seat conforming to this, making a more comfortable experience. "Well, Gray''s finna be on tomorrow." The headset went over his head, covering his eyes.


    Once again he took a shallow breathe, followed by a deep one. Relaxing his body, to be taken away by the game. He fell.


    ""


    His eyes opened to a deeply downtrodden atmosphere. The rooms pressure sat on his chest, sucking the feeling of rejuvenation from his body.


    The cracked walls helped little to change this feeling. Only after sitting up to take a proper breath was Leek reminded of his reality.


    The struggling existence within this prison was a simple misunderstanding.


    Leek: "Jeezus, this place has too much detail to be this throwaway in design." Spending few more moments in the room Leek stood up and took his leave, exclaiming "That place better be open by now!"


    Exiting the Inn like establishment, and retracing his steps from the night before, Leek hurriedly made his way through the rough part of the city.


    The subtle gradient, shifting from developed to a ghetto enclave the town had was more prevalent when taking note.


    After due time Leek managed to find himself before the twin set of doors, indicating the entrance to the Hall.


    Standing in wait were around twenty-six people, each with deep depressions under their eye. Few words were spoken amongst any of the grouped individuals.


    As Leek attempted to remain courteous, silently passing the time by twiddling his thumbs. Quickly he lost interest as the many before him became the few.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    People rapidly cycled into, and out of the building, doing so in groupings of two or more. A couple of minutes slipped past him as he was now the next in line to enter.


    A pair of men exited through the doors, giving reason for Leek and one other patron to take their place in occupancy.


    -Leek: "This place looked so much smaller from outside?" The wide eyed Leek continued to question as his feet stepped into the Hall, "Just how could this town afford to build this place, or even keep it running?"


    The interiors walls were lined with luminous statues, and pillars. Towering well above anyone they gave a more sense of natural lighting.


    The floor was spotless enough that you could incorrectly perceive your face looking back at you. The marble material yet making up of it had shown no signs of wear.


    Taken as a tourist of sorts Leek was guided to five separate lines, only three of which being used actively, where he could be aided in his many queries.


    Each of them were equitable in length, as one person finished their business, and exited, another would swiftly take a spot at the back.


    Some time passed to which Leek advanced in line, patiently waiting as he wondered in place.


    -Leek: "Do I ask for a quest or something?" He looked around, scratching his head. And through the sets of unfamiliar faces one stood in contrast, giving a grounded sense to the environment. "Oh, it''s Elle... pretty sure she doesn''t like me much."


    Disregarding the statement he qucikly placed himself at the back of her line. Losing his place as he now needed to wait all over again.


    The time passed slowly enough, he spent his time twiddling his thumbs, and unconsciously counting the amount of paces needed to walk even inch of the buildings ground floor.


    The many people blocking his sight, frequently occupying spaces to then vacate them, irritated Leek to the point of scratching his own leg. Picking at it as though he were a newborn discovering adhesive.


    -Elle: "CAN YOU PLEASE STEP FORWARD!" Her words drawing the attention of everyone in the vicinity. "I have many more people waiting, can you PLEASE not waste anymore time!" Elle''s patience ran thin.


    Leek: "Oh." He hurriedly moved to the first in line, coming to face with Elle. "My bad, I kinda dozed off..." He recoiled slightly, anticipating a mount of verbal assault.


    -Elle: "I didn''t mean to be abrasive. I had called for you twice before." She took her hands to her pantsuit, gliding them down arms length, straightening what could be seen from across the desk. "Now, what may be my service to you?" Her face lost the majority of its personability, as she regarded the man before her as nothing more than another patron in passing.


    -Leek: "Well. I was looking for a quest, and i believe you said this''d be the place to get one." He rested his hands on the reception desk, relaxing a bit as he did so. Before her head darted downward to aid in his request an eyebrow raised to his words, indicating a reaction of dumbfoundedness rather than dislike.


    -Elle: "Can you provide your Guild issued ID, or the name you have been registered under? From there I can view your entire personal file, including any licenses, permits, and charters you have been issued; expired or current."


    To the knowledge of the apparent identification he should have in his possession Leek searched his person. Patting himself down thoroughly, enough to guarantee he did not properly place this item. He gave her his name instead; "Leek."


    -Elle: She took note of the name he gave, searching for it in ''the system.'' "Yes, I have found your profi... uhm, are you sure this is you?" Her face changed promptly into that of one stricken with skepticism.


    -Leek: "Ye... Yes. I don''t have a reason to think its not!" He took a mental step back at the thought of him providing the incorrect name, his hands removing themselves from the desk. "Is something wrong with that one?"


    Yet to give any reason for concern to him, Elle, pulled aside a passing co-worker to bounce her seeming worry off upon.


    Grabbing the lady''s left arm sleeve she tugged slightly, getting the coworker to come to a stop.


    -Elle: "Nyette, take a look at this for me." She said in a slight whisper, attempting, naught, to raise unease. "I''m sure there was no error with the system itself, but if so how exactly would I explain this?"


    -Nyette: "If it pulls from the system, then the only thing you can do is just finish his request." The eyes of Nyette, ones of a sunken blue, gazed at Leek for nothing more than a moment. "Though, a situation like this could raise a 2-06."


    -Elle: "Yes, that I know. Its just the workload im unde-" Her words were cut off.


    -Nyette: Taking charge of the conversation stated, "I don''t have the time to do it for you. So if you want the burden go ahead, otherwise don''t bring it up again." The interaction came to an end, no longer did she wait for Elle to refute.


    Frustrated at the situation Elle decided to continue with her usual protocol. Selecting to ignore the issue she had found.


    -Elle: "Sorry for the wait, I had to confer some information with a colleague of mine." She thought for a second before speaking again, her pride being set to the side just before asking, "Are you really from before the Second World Power? I don''t mean to be unprofessional, I swear!"


    A great deal of excitement, at least with comparison, sputtered from her previously curated mouth. A muted glint shown in her eyes, stripping back the blunt nature of her words, revealing a youthful suspense.


    -Leek: Reluctantly he responded, "I don''t get what you mean." The question posed to him was not clear, as he had no context to what she spoke of.


    To these words she resumed her sense of professionalism, faintly clingy to her want for answer.


    -Elle: "Anyways!" She straightened her clothing once more. "You came in search for questing, but going by your file it appears you lack an updated license; of any kind. You do have affiliation with the pre-subsidization Hunter''s League, so you won''t need any new paperwork..." Her hand caressed her face as she thought.


    Taking a perspective step back, the many noises that were in the background came down to light whispers. Unbeknownst to Leek many of the originators of these mumbles had their hidden glances set to him. The fuel to this speculation being his affiliations.


    Leek himself, oblivious to his newfound grandeur, took to his mind; standing with little motion, blankly staring in wait for Elle to proceed.


    -Elle: "You will not be capable of accepting any Guild Association published quests, specialized or not. This issue is because of a new, relative to your membership, amendment to policy that requires a renewal for independent licenses." With the knowledge that this news would warrant more questions she added, "I will give you a reference card. You can take this to the Guild Capital, Faerilm and they will walk you through any processes needed to recertify you."


    Elle reached over the desk to hand Leek the card she spoke of, her right arm extended to do so. The card had little presence as its dark hue of blue reflected only trivial amounts of light.


    A set of words were transcribed on the frontside, the language was foreign enough to resemble runes.


    Leek thanked her for her patience in handling him, taking the card she offered. They concluded their business on a simple clarification on how to go about heading to Faerilm, and expectations on doing so.


    -Elle: "If you have no affairs to settle in our quaint village I would recommend heading out within the hour. You would make it to the Capital early enough to settle into a hostel, and sort the majority of your Guilding issue." To this she gave a faint smile, her eyes at a mild squint.


    Taking her words into account Leek left the building. Failing naught to say his goodbyes to Elle, and even doing so too Nyette in passing.


    As head left through the doors of the building Leek decided on taking a stroll, taking his time to consume the particular view this village provided him.


    Knowledgable of the idea that this was a game he was playing he still urged to soak in the environment around him. The feeling serene, as the quiet it had would be stripped away with his department, and relocation to a bustling city.

 Beginning

    Twenty minutes had passed since speaking to Elle. In this time Leek had finished his stroll, taking in the scenery at an enhanced feeling of anticipation. The arrival of a man had also caught his eye in the time.


    Leek changed his objective to the man, who rode atop an ass-drawn wagon that slowly hauled himself through the villages jagged road. His eyes drawing to no sights as he continued forward, waiting for nothing.


    -Leek: "Yeah, he seems about right." Leek had confirmed with his own conscious, the identity of the man. In this he directed his brisk charge towards the man, and his wagon; waiving as he got closer.


    When he was within few feet of the man Leek noticed that every flailing attempt to draw the mans attention were in vein, as he took no note of his presence. Though he did acknowledge Leek when he was in a small vicinity.


    The man was fairly hairy throughout his face. He had brown bushy enough to hide his eyes, and his mustache connecting to an untamed beard that concealed even his jaw.


    His eyebrows had risen, though not enough to reveal the color of his pupils, and followed with a straight question. His tone not seeking to fraternize, or befriend.


    -Guide: "To where are you headed Boy, and can your satchel take you that far?" He pulled for his ass to slow its pace, giving proper time for conversation.


    -Leek: His reply came as a reflex, "Oh... the Guild Capital, Faerilm!"


    -Guide: "Yeah, yeah. You children are always fighting to sign your life away, at any given chance at fame or fortune." Strong disdain sourced from his strung words. "When I worked, we''d set our on our own. Not relying on some bullshit system to decide if we''re ''ready.'' Instead we actually knew what we were capable of."


    The words he spoke held not only a sense of criticism, but also one of reminiscence; nothing good coming of the nostalgia he dipped into.


    -Leek: Neglecting the awkward stance he held, in comparison to the man, Leek continued with the topic. "I get that. But you can''t get away from the Guild nowadays, idk specifically but they most definitely have a monopoly on trade and profession."


    He knew of his own ignorance regarding the matter of Guild structure in this game. He had yet to experience anything related in its current state, but he inferred his response from the Fallen Arc he played so long ago.


    -Guide: "Yeah, I know. You have no choice anymore really, its a real shame. To change such a thing you''d need aid from every Marquess, here and until the ruins of Belvath." Following this statement he pointed his hand out, "And we all know none of those scum will give up their taxable income."


    Tiring of speaking the man, who was slightly animated for this short period of time, retreated back into his reclusive nature.


    *Bing* a brief chime rang out. ''You have gained favor of the Traveling Guide.''


    Paying little attention to the sudden presence of the notification Leek simply paid his mind to the man before him, anticipating him to continue on.


    -Guide: "Anyways, you seem like a fairly honest young man. I''ll spare you anymore of my rant, that is till we''ve departed enough where you''d be forced to listen." Breaking face, the man let out a sultry chuckle.


    In his amusement Leek got into the back of the wagon. On both sides of the wagons walls were a plank that stuck out, doing so below the safety railing.


    Leek pulled himself up into it, not noticing before just how elevated it was. As he did so, having taken his seat right behind the Guide, on his left, a prompt popped into existence.


    ''Do You Wish To Fast Travel To Your Location, Log-Out, Or Remain In-Game!?''


    -Leek: "Hmm... Might as well take the man up on his offer." He went about pressing the ''Remain In Game'' section of the prompt.


    ...


    Hours had passed as the two men traveled along the fairly quiet roads, having only passed a few lonely travelers.


    Those who did parallel Leek and the Guide in travel gave no notice to their presence, outside of the space they consumed on the hastily created roads.


    Stories were exchanged amongst the men. Tall tales of grandeur and spectacle found themselves being switched in/out as the Guide gave his accounts of them. Leek remained attached to his near every word, holding onto the fantasy given to him.


    *Bing* ''You have achieved a non-formal relationship with Sebast, the Travel Guide!''


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    -Leek: A smile had been stuck to his face long enough that speaking ached. "It has been a while, the Sun has gotten fairly high," a yawn ripped his face apart, in feeling. "I''ll need some sleep soon. Can you wake me before we arrive?"


    -Sebast: The man, whose eyes could actually be seen through the thick hair on his face, spoke. "Young Man, take your needed rest. Unlike you this is nothing to me." His eyes, matching his hair in color, showed no disdain to Leeks request.


    To this Leek gestured, as if to press the wagon itself. He did so to reveal the hidden prompt he had reached out for, ''Do You Wish To Fast Travel, Or Log-Out?''


    Little thought went into his choice, ''Fast Travel'' as he had already confirmed his stance with Sebast, the man he chose to stay awake with.


    The result of this was him falling into a deep sleep, his body remaining perfectly upright as the cart continued forward.


    ...


    Sebast had finally reached the main roads, the sleeping passenger behind him not knowing of such.


    The travel along these sets of roads became sectioned, requiring of payment to conscript permitted passage through these private roads.


    Drawing from his own pockets to pay the tax, per person, Sebast quietly provided the funds. Though he could he did not go about waking Leek to reimburse him for his troubles.


    ...


    The Sun had a particularly strong beam, it casually piercing through my tightly closed eyelids. What reason could explain why I can''t just remain asleep for a while longer, getting my much needed rest.


    Leek opened his eyes to give context to his situation, waking to immediate attention.


    A canopy of trees lined his view, their coverage hanging above the pathway, shrouding it in a trapped shadow.


    The speed he moved at gave a soothing feeling as he watched the layers of greenery march at different paces, the further they were longer they remained in sight.


    Poking through the confined space, between the tall tree thicket was the Sun. The occasional beam of light would flicker over Leeks face, giving a brief stun to his sight.


    When looking across the wagon to view what was walled behind it Leek had overlooked an interesting aspect to his transportation. There were people in a similar comatose like state, sleeping through the ride.


    Five men beside him all had yet to wake, simply swaying lightly as the uneven road gave to bumps as they went along.


    -Leek: Through the minor daze he had, not looking for an answer, he asked, "Where did they come from."


    "You expect to take public transportation and be all alone... did you!?" These words appeared out of nowhere, the unhindered chuckle prefacing it was also startling in nature.


    The sound projected from behind his head, hiding behind the concealing underbrush as to not reveal itself.


    Now coming from inside the wagon Leek understood that one of the five men accompanying him were likely the origin of the voice.


    -???: "Hey, don''t let me get you all paranoid Mister!" The individual to Leeks right, diagonally, popped his eyes open, animated enough to seem uncanny. "I''m just havin a bit of fun, lighten up a bit!" He had a large grin, flaunting his fairly straight teeth.


    The clothing on his body all hid a dark tint of green. Concealing his hair was a hat, a Tudor flat cap, or the ones that bards and musicians are know to wear in fantasy worlds.


    His hip made partner of a thin but lengthy piece of metalwork, a mix between longsword and rapier; the hilt black to the point it stood out.


    -???: "No mean to intrude, but I recommend you refine those skills of yours. I was barely even using a basic level Ventriloquism skill!" Taking a stand the man turned his back to Leek, placing his right leg on the wagons seat.


    His left hand had been brought up to his head, preventing his swaying hat from being taken by the wind.


    -Eliysha: "But lemme guess, thats already why you''re headed for the Capital!" His hand still held onto his hat, the feather poking from it somehow not coming loose. "Anyways Mister, don''t let yourself get too close to the Sun, for you''ll burn out; nor should you bend your will for any man!"


    With his words Eliysha, whose name had appeared above his head unprompted, casually jumped into the shaded road. Taking to the underbrush that quickly swallowed his body, only his torso being seen, with his right arm in a backhanded wave.


    Confusion had struck Leek as to what had just occurred, disregarding even the fact he was a direct participant in the interaction. He simply stared at the man as he faded from view.


    Before he could gather his thoughts properly the flickering beams of lights had changed.


    Suddenly the beams had bound together. Becoming unbroken, an ocean to the eyes. Nothing impeded the view, one vast enough that at any distance you could get lost in it.


    As they were atop an incline it gave the wagon a heightened sense of grandeur. Any other travellers on the many winding roads in sight were nothing more than a speck when put into perspective.


    He could stare no longer as his eyes had teared up, needing to be wiped to avoid seeming emotional. They had even begun to strain as he tried to keep them open past the point of comfortability.


    -Sebast: "We''re here Young Man." His stern voice had commanded any who heard to take notice.


    The intensity of the Sun had died a bit, his pupils having adjusted. He turned to Sebast, looking past him to the city of Faerilm.


    The Sun once again attempted to blind him, failing to do so this time. With the amount of exposure to the sea that he had only mildly flinch. The content came into the foreground, having been hidden by the overstimulating feeling from before.


    A city of fantasy. A fortress-like wall was stationed around the cities, rough in shape, circumference. This fortified exterior was connected directly into the mountainous mass of rock that towered the capital many heights over, protecting its back from any problem.


    Numerous sections of the city distinctly shown their stature above the others, surpassing the others around them.


    There was a pattern to discern why specific section were set higher than others, but there was a lack of context to figure it out.


    -Sebast: "It never loses its wonder, just feels a tad bit more familiar." He became more gentle in the face, his expression.


    The time was just before mid-day, this let the Sun remain stationed directly above in the sky.


    It hung above the city at a close enough angle to give it a lively shine. Very little seeming to ever go wrong inside its walls.


    -Leek: Fastened temporary to the cities introduction he spoke, "Yeah. I might just have to stay here a while..."


    The wagon could not have arrived any sooner, anticipation only grew as the roughly paved ground near the trees refined itself. Allowing the wagon to level and smoothly approach.

 Interactions

    Many of those hitching a ride on the wagon had awoken, taking to their own two feet rather than await the slowing transports complete arrival. Departing individuals did so typically after extending a form of gratuity, through the medium of bids.


    Sebast graciously accepting these without forcing any to open their pockets.


    When the rolling cart had finally reached the city''s great gate not a soul was could be seen stationed outside of it, the portcullis remaining open fully to any who arrived.


    Entrance to the city was nigh abrupt. From the outside you could assume the city had a high amount of traffic, but a quiet population. Though this was thrown away immediately once stepping foot within its limits.


    Alone the streets branched off into any, and every direction. Neatly the road system gave way to countless who sought to explore the jungle of stone.


    Pathways not cutting directly through the heart of the city were, for as Leek could see, filled to the brim with with vendors of all natures. A clash of culture stood out as people each wanted to push their own unique feeling to rope in customers.


    These stalls did not have much spacing between themselves. Cannibalization of sales seemed to occur frequently, the average person only buying from a single one of these carts.


    -Sebast: "Twas a fun time young man, but I do still have a job to do." He brought his ass'' to a full halt, alluding to his reluctancy to continue any further into the city.


    -Leek: Getting down from his temporary throne he went to the front, facing Sebast. "My bad, I thought you''d give me a tour of the place... old geezer."


    To this the people who had been in wait boarded Sebast''s transport wagon, packing it to visual capacity. Sheer variety of people in wait for his services was astonishing. People of distinctly different skin tones, armor styles/types, and general demeanor.


    -Leek: "Hmm. You have a lot of clients, and range of them." A tad smidge of sarcasm bled from his words, questioning the mans business capabilities. "Anyways. You better keep in touch with me, even just a letter would be fine."


    -Sebast: An unrestricted grin shown through the mustache on his face. "Of course. So long as you respond in a timely manner! Take care young man."


    *Bing* ''You Have Become Friends With Sebast; formed a unique relationship!''


    Both Sebast and Leek bid due to one another, expecting of each other a greatness they yet saw in themselves.


    When peering at the vast nature of the jungle before him he noticed how people would spill into the streets, all finding themselves intertwined, straightened once more as they left from view.


    Leek knowingly had taken an extended route in aim for the Adventurers Guild building, searching for the subtle sights of the new atmosphere he was provided. Weaving between buildings, through alleyways, and across long stretches of thin ground surrounded by growling waters.


    Catching his eyes as he progressed was the varying interests of the people he would pass had. Many went about their business dressed in wealthy garb, their fingers chocked by golden rings, and a lack of imperfections of their portrayed person.


    Others would be in groups that did not falter in their choice of protection. Knight-like armor shrouding an individual in mystery, accompanied by others who were physically sturdy but more practically more nimble in choice of apparel.


    Long articles of clothes hung from the least clad in metal amongst the sets of people. And in congruence with the business people they sported rings of varying material on their fingers, however the gems embedded in this material were more prominent.


    Conversations Leek would hear in passing stacked onto the feeling of diversity. Talking points for the construction of new buildings, discussion of some passionate political situations, marketing points to better capitalize on customer retention, techniques used to properly smith needed items... and so on.


    At a point on his travel he found it troublesome once again to traverse the streets. Some catalyst had resulted in an influx of people to consistently drip into the roads. Causing an overlap of who he understood to stand out, making the waves of people become a blur to him.


    -Leek: "Jeez, how many people are in this section of the city?" His spinning thoughts came to head when he faced a relatively large set of double doors, not much different to the pair in the town he stared in; more simplistic in design.


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    No line could be seen from outside, rather everyone who sought service entered without hesitation. He, in follow, welcomed himself into the building as such also.


    In contrast to the fully lit atmosphere of the tunneling streets outside the building was fairly dim. Shadows were even plentiful in the more obscure places.


    A centerpiece was hanging from the ceiling, clearly standing as the main source of light. A chandelier of open flames that were abnormally bright for their size.


    Aiding in the work of illuminating the large hall were other singular torches, scattered knowingly across the many walls of the hall, all decorated to appear less barbaric.


    -Leek: Shifting his head around to appreciate the detail Leek stood in place momentarily. "Quailty is better overall, but the other place def had more personality..." He had loudly whispered to his own interest.


    "Hey! Don''t you go disrespecting our Guild Hall there!"


    Hearing this comment Leek felt as though it came from his left, a large round table with approximately twelve seated members.


    For a moment he did question if he again misconstrued where the disembodied voice originated from. Thinking of the context needed to understand the clearly aimed outburst.


    -???: "Yeah punk, I''m talking to you!" From the seated party a woman had taken a stand, giving clear claim to the disrespecting voice.


    Indistinct chatter arose within the rest of the seated people who remained placid at the table; pair of groans thrown in as though to spice the sounds of their mouths.


    -Leek: His face contorted as the woman failed to allude to her reaction being a joke. "What exactly is your problem?"


    -???: From the other side of the table she hurled her words. "We don''t take kindly to the weak bad mouthing our stuff. Especially when they walk in here with no affiliations!" Her tone seemed to become more exaggerated as she continued to speak.


    -Leek: "Bro, to be honest with you... I don''t give a single fuck about you ideals, or whatever." These words were direct and monotone, "Was nobody talking to you in the first place."


    Emotions on the violent side of the spectrum flared clearly from the woman. She took no time in closing the gap distancing Leek and herself.


    When up close her stature was two-three inches above Leek''s. Using the height difference she placed as much emphasis on intimidation as she could.


    -Karyel: "You must not play this game much, boy, but don''t let the lack of a level above my head deceive you." Crouching slightly, to face Leek''s directly, she tilted her face inches from his.


    During this exchange two more of the people who had been seated beside Karyel got up, standing on either side of her. These two did not engage in her aggression but did fail to help in any way.


    A look of expired embarrassment was the only thing of substance they provided.


    -Leek: Any joy had been stripped from his face. "I got stuff to do. Go bully someone else ifya don''t mind." He turned to leave the predicament, going to the front desk with workers in wait for  assignment.


    A jolt from his shoulder forced him back. To his surprise Karyel had not moved from her place, in her stead was the man on her left. His hand had extended from beneath the cloak he shrouded himself under.


    -???: "Woah there!" He did not take lightly to the blatant show of ignorant independence. "Don''t get ahead of yourself dude. Have some damn manners."


    -Karyel: Smiling all the way to her left ear, she gladly continued with her affront. "The Adventurers Guild doesn''t take easy to any who attempt to stand out..." She waited for a brief moment to ensure attention, "Especially those who get caught in the crosshair of a Ranked Guided Journeyman!"


    Leek''s eyes jumped between the people before him. He wanted to react yet refused to do so as he knew there was an insurmountable strength difference. Even just his left shoulder being held put the groups capabilities into perspective.


    Karyel was diffidently the leader, but his comparison in strength was towards Zhyen. The sheer feeling his hold had immediately dispelled any underplaying ignorance he had for the three.


    Waiting patiently was the man to her right. He showed no desire to speak, rather he exuded a single thought, the want to ''cut down.''


    His right hand was barely visible from Leek''s position but could be glimpsed gently caressing the great sword on his back. Due to its size it was not sheathed, instead, hastily wrapped in a cloth to reduce its intimidating presence.


    -Zhyen: His hand released Leek from his terse capture. "You should apologize. karyel isn''t the kind you''d want having a target on your back." Reason seeped from his words, giving the want to  believe what he spoke.


    -Karyel: "Now don''t forget my time is money! You did use my time did you not!?" The grin on his face extended to form a vile full teethed smile, outstretched to touch both her ears.


    Coming from Karyel was a foreign feeling. The armor armor she was clad in mixed with her naked want to hurt, pulling the sense Leek felt straight from a spoiled dream.


    "Let the boy finish his matter Karyel." A soft voice spoke loudly to draw attention. "If you wish to commit thievery then I warrant you to exit my hall, otherwise leave him be."


    Dropping as she recognized the voice, Karyel misplaced the acquired smile she so held shortly ago. Her eyes swelled with disgust as she backpedalled her actions.


    She didn''t even take the little time needed to confirm the person with the voice.


    Karyel, Zhyen, and the great sword wielding man all returned to the round table they had occupied. Reuniting with the other people who had remained in place.


    Leek stood motionless, even after the three were not hindering his movement. His breathing was shallow as he pooled his rationality to remain composed after the injustice.


    -???: "I apologize on behalf of Karyel and her band of thugs. I sought naught to interject, but the implied inclusion of robbery will not be tolerated under any circumstance in this hall." As these words spewed from his mouth the man had approached Leek.


    -Leek: Agitation was still present on his face, not caring that the man it was direct towards had been his savior. "Yeah. Can I get serviced now, I done wasted my time enough."


    -Volun Sarek: The short man took himself through the building, skipping the short line of people who were in wait for assistance. "Yes, follow me."

 Fading Crossroads

    In the doorway to a closed off office stood Volun Sarek, the man who prevented the extortion of a little bird not too long ago. He motioned for Leek to accompany him.


    When he entered Leek noticed that little decorated the rooms walls. They were only occupied by the torches used to create light.


    Stepping foot through the door you would be greeted by a desk on the right, with a window behind it. Oddly enough, with no curtains you still saw near to no light coming into the room from it.


    Moving to allow his guest to enter Volun pulled a seat for his guest, sitting him in front of the desk, atop which was miscellaneous items that had no perceived value outside of sentimental.


    Though, catching the eye was a glass encasing, angled about forty-five degrees. A gleam could be observed coming from them even if Leek did not look at them directly.


    Inside of this case was about five dog tags, the type soldiers would wear around their neck when in service to a military. These were fairly polished yet still had a deep undertone of dirt, giving peek at the sheer amount they had, at one point, gone through.


    Something about the tags drew directly at Leek, his memories even. He shuffled through any potential indicators in his head as to why he felt connected to the items on Volun''s desk.


    -Volun Sarek: Patiently he had given Leek his moment to view the tags, as he seemed wholly interested. "So, have you come to apply for a permit to accept Adventurers Quests?"


    It took a moment for Leek to properly acknowledge the man, and his question. His gaze strained to forsaken the tags in option to give his attention to Volun.


    -Leek: "Uhh... no, not exactly. I need to reapply for them I believe." Doing so, as to not forget, he pulled the card Elle had given him earlier.


    Taking the card as presented the man quickly examined it. His abnormally slow blink had crept closer to halting completely, moving no more than a twitch.


    An audible breathe passed Leek in a smoothe motion. The distance it travelled was abnormal, as was its temperature. The air blown by Volun had sent a shot of pain up Leeks spine, aching the many joints holding it together.


    His face would contort as the discomfort he felt was barely shy of being fairly painful.


    -Volun Sarek: "Belvirian, huh... I would not expect to cross interests with your kind outside of the ruins." Unease blanketed the expression on his face. "Do you seek blood, or brethren?"


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    Condensation began to drip from the window behind the desk, which faced away from Volun. It did not fall to the ground as it had frozen in place before it could travel far.


    As his breathe had been exhaled Leek could see it, floating tangilby through the room. It remained strung just out of reach, mocking his attempts at scarffing down the sharp air.


    Suddenly he could feel the blood coursing throughout his body, and each beat that allowed it to do so, colder than the last. His ability to regulate his own heat had become more of a hopeless cause with each second.


    -Leek: With his throat having closed up he struggled to get words out. "What ar... why is-cold?" Panic settled in his mind as he lost a bit of his leverage to his subconscious.


    He readied his dagger as the progressively heavying feeling of malice/bloodlust compressed his body, restricting most movement.


    "I..I have n-no need for bl-blood." The pattering of his teeth cut his words into sections; the winter slurring them.


    The rooms temperature had changed exponentially, falling to a dangerous level. The sweat previously moisturizing his body stopped completely, and froze over.


    In the same fashion the cracking of his body under pressure jumped. He could not bring himself to take a proper breath, as it brought more pain than not.


    His eyes struggled to lift themselves. When he glanced at Volun for answers he was met with a figure of nothing but incomprehensibility that had taken the form of a man, faking its approachability by reducing its visual presence to that of a small man.


    "J-jus.." Unable to take the situation for a moment more Leek jumped from his seat, his eyes squinting closed, and plunged his blade into Volun''s throat.


    When his eyes shot open to witness his actions he realized he had not moved from his seat. The weapon he brandished did not get the chance to taste a foe, or even move freely.


    His hand shook from resistance, as he put all his strength into taking Volun''s life. But preventing him was the man himself, feeling closer to a presence than person, he had his left hand lapped over Leeks.


    -Volun Sarek: He towered over Leek in dominance, with the hilt of Leek''s dagger under control. "Well, I have no reason to not believe you. I will reinstate any of your previous permits, and or licenses; disregarding time since expiration." With each of his words the burning air lost more of its edge.


    The change rapidly brought back reason to the room, but the cold did linger, dispersing rapidly into the walls once holding it in.


    Malice from Volun had dropped instantly as he returned to the human he was just so little ago. Even with the forced hold he had Leek under, his body language reverted back, though more reclusive.


    -Leek: The ice in his windpipe had defrosted enough for him to let out a coherent sentence. "What the FUCK WAS THA-T!" His voice scratched him, leaving him to cough hoarsely.


    -Volun Sarek: "I, for a moment, lost a bit of control over myself." He bowed his head as he said this, his hand retracting from the dagger as it had lost its temper. "Out of apology, and with consideration to your exhibited capability, I will ensure your membership and reinstatement to our Guild."


    Dumbfounded by everything that occurred since he stepped into this building his mind went into a makeshift autopilot.


    -Leek: He remained dumbstruck to prevent him from lashing out, as he refused to acknowledge all the abuse he''s been subjected to under this roof. "Uh-huh. Whatever gets me out of here the fastest."


    He coughed once more.

 Adventure Time

    -Volun Sarek: "Don''t mind me if its too personal, but how did you avoid the war?" The man of a monster sat in the office chair as he asked this question.


    With no context to the circumstances of the apparent war mentioned he decided to not give a direct answer, better to no lock himself into a backstory so blindly.


    -Leek: Indifferent to how he came off he said, rather simply, "I can''t remember really. It all happened so long ago."


    -Volun Sarek: His face slightly changed, hinting at the undertone of skepticism. "Yes, I would not blame you for not being able to recall." Continuing past the tangent he spoke again. "Alongside your reinstatement I, an Adventurers Guild Master, request your enrollment as a Student Journeyman under our guild, alone!"


    With the earlier reaction Volun showed to Leek''s he was caught by surprise at the proposition to exclusively join the guild. Conflict to his interests did arise from this.


    -Leek: "Appreciate the offer but I''m not comfortable with the commitment." He did not lie, rather he evaded mentioning his newfound disdain for the guild''s members, and one of their masters.


    Taking not too well at the refusal, the short man wasted no time in providing greater incentives. Money would be provided, aid would be given when possible, and creative prospects to undertake if he so chose.


    Shooting down all of these impetus ideas Leek had wished for the necessary permits to take Adventurer Quests; nothing more, nothing less.


    After going back and forth for more than a moment the two settled on Leek''s initiative, Volun having failed to persuade the man he wrought to kill.


    -Leek: He took a stand as there was no reason for him to remain in the room. "By the way those tags are pretty cool. You should get some more."


    To no response he took his leave, bidding a formal farewell to Volun, even after the monster he hid could be seen through.


    The hall he stepped out into was pretty quiet, specifically if you compare it to the sound level when he arrived originally. The amount of people did decrease, but by a negligible amount.


    Even with the amount of time having elapsing since the winter situation between Leek and Volun you could be swept by the shift in temperature, losing your breath for a moment.


    -Hailey: The clerk from across the counter stuttered as she reached out to get the mans attention, "A-Are you alright!"Her arm flinching when the gaze of his converged with hers.


    -Leek: "Ugh..yeah. Whats the problem?" He paused for a moment and took a long look around the room, this time trying to find something out of place.


    Through his ''genius'' insight he concluded that it was him, he is what stood rigid in the flowing grass. People protected their anonymity in the crowd by pretending he was not what they were looking at.


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    The round table seating Zhyen and his associates were among the people doing this. Though, Karyel faltered not in openly portraying her gaze, but she did have a slight shiver in her eyes.


    To this Leek finally noticed the greatest difference from before; the building had nearly frozen over. Just as it was in the office the look of the hall and its many tables, and patrons, looked like it had a new fresh coat of blue paint.


    It was over by now, the temperature lowering at a slow rate, but there were signs of defrosting throughout the hall and on the armor of the individuals.


    Volun''s temperament had seeped out the room, but not away. Rather it all collected, and in partner with the cold and had affected anyone in range.


    One thing that did not sit well with him was how everyone did not move, remaining in place. No think layers of ice was on their persons, yet they acted as though submerged in it.


    As he thought this all to himself Volun had taken a peak out of his office. His goal being to ease the tension he had experienced second hand from his hobbit hole.


    -Volun Sarek: Authority spewed from him as he went to speak, "Nothing has occurred here. You may all return to your unbothered lived!" The voice still had a twinge of dullness but went to command everyones resume.


    Speaking no more than needed he weaseled back into the restricted area he had reserved to him alone.


    The harsh cold of the building rapidly removed itself, as though it was also commanded by Volun''s words. Chatter picked up too, though to a reduced level.


    To get a jump through the slight lack of coherence everyone was going through Leek went towards the front desk, posing a query to Hailey.


    -Leek: Momentarily he placed both hands on the counter. "Where could I find the quests?" Reflexively she pointed him to the task boards that were stationed on either side of the building, attached to its walls.


    The boards had been there when he entered, but they did not have any of the many hanging papers they did now. Nor was there a large header reading Task Board before. He had assumed they were for genuine business adverts.


    Anyways, he trotted over to the board figuring that he might accept a quest now. Noticing the countless options he began to skim through them, intending for a specific type to undertake.


    -Leek: "Maybe cause I got permits now?" He spoke, while looking at the board. "Could be to sort acceptable quests...?"


    ''Travel To...'', ''Take The...'', ''Find The Location...'', ''Go And...'', ''Travel...'', ''Explore...'', ''Escort...''


    Nearly every job he saw focused on the requirement of travel outside of the city, heading somewhere else entirely. The hassle would be too much, so he continued to view the catalogue.


    ''Search For..'', ''Locate...'', ''Cull...''


    He stopped at the word cull, choosing to actually read the entire listing.


    ''Cull The Population Of Dark Wolves Above Faerilm. They Have Begun To Destabilize The Ecosystem Through Overpopulation And Excessive Hunting. | Kill <u><</u> 27, Gather Their Paws For Additional Compensation|''


    The request was a generic murder quest used as early game filler Leek thought, one any other MMO would employ for increased play time. But he did not care too much as he went through accepting the request anyways.


    Reaching for the paper stuck to the board he ripped it out of place, and put it into his inventory pocket.


    *Tching* ''You Have Accepted A Task! If You Wish To View Your Related Status, Select The Task/Quest Section In Your Inventory!''


    With all the suddenness he''s experienced under this roof the sound, which was typically startling, of an unprompted notification did nothing but inform him.


    -Leek: He thought for a second, "Just how long will it take to get on the mountain? I don''t want to fight those things in the dark..." After continuing his thoughts a little more he quickly exited the hall, drawing to no extra attention as he did so.


    His sights were set on completing the task now placed on his shoulders, refusing to stop for any reason


    ...


    From a distance you could hear the pitiful whimper of a dog, one being cut down. The sound came into being, to swiftly fade.


    Layered beneath this, but above the echoing gnarls, were grunts of a man and the clang of his connecting blade. A fight for survival was unfolding, taking place on the gradual slope of the mountain above Faerilm.

 A Feeling

    Panning from the road entering the city, corpses littered the open plain of the Faerilm mountain.


    They piled, advancing into the progressively thickening tree lining that gave color contrast to the rest of the mountain.


    About nine were laying lifeless as a result of inflicted wounds. Even with death having taken them from their bodies a cruel stench of malicious intent was present.


    A man surrounded by four wolves, his dagger steadily gripped in his hand, and a malformed buckler shield in the other, fended off the pack he eyed down.


    Sweat dripped onto his arm and rolled into his eyes. He decided to not give into the pain, refusing to lose his lock on the predators before him.


    He knew that the moment he lost focus they would pounce.


    ___


    Status Page: Leek (15)


    [ Skill Points: 6 ]


    HP   16 (+2)


    SPD  8  (+2)


    VIT    9  (+0)


    TEQ  2  (+2)


    EVN  3  (+2)


    SSK  2


    [ LUCK: 7 ](+5)


    Inventory: Dagger(Dull), Shield (Useless), Clothing (Used), Shoes (Poor), (1)Elixir: Vitality/Basic, Coin Pouch: 97, (9)Angora Tails: Rotten, (7)Angora Tails: Fresh, (1)Empty Bottles


    ___


    The translucent page popped into view, only to him, allowing his eyes to appear fixated on the threats around him. He wished to evaluate his situation a bit better, knowing of the uninvested skill points he had.


    Having experienced the difference when investing mid-fight Leek wanted to readjust the stats that esblish his characters baseline.


    "When the hell did I level up... three times?" He pulled back further, his back peering at the closing distance between itself and the dense lining of trees. "I should have checked earlier!" He fought his face, but lost, a smile relaxed his tense expression.


    Outside of the three new skill points the base stats of his character have changed. His HP had gone up by two, he gained two Specialty Skills (SSK), and VIT had leapt one shy of ten from its initial three.


    Focusing on the first two skills acquired he opened the section to get a grasp on what they were.


    ___


    [Specialty Skills] 2


    Coldening Feeling: When Active The User Gains Increased Perception To Nearby Characters/Mobs | Paranoia (<u>1</u>)Stacks With Each Character/Mob In Vicinity While Active, Increasing Hyper-Fixation. Decreases Vitality With Every (<u>2</u>)Stack.


    Cut Throat: Increases The Chances To Land Critical Hits For As Long As Bloodlust (<u>3</u>)Stacks Have Been Placed On The User | Reduces Accuracy And Evasion, The User Becomes Frenzied.


    ___


    The question was how exactly did he unlock these skills, as he had not gone out of his own way to think about learning any.


    -Leek: "Okay! We actually have some things to work with." He, for a moment, forgot to maintain intent with the wolves even if his eyes appeared to look.


    Shrieking howls began to bombard and take advantage of his comfortability to get one up on the situation.


    Shifting from his character introspection Leek immediately reached into his inventory, drew on an item he had, and threw it at the leading predator. A rotten Angora Tail was his choice of distraction.


    Tracking it as it passed by, the wolf''s eyes jumped right back to where Leek was. Only problem was they prey it so certainly was about to consume had not remained placid.


    The stench of his presence went from being straight ahead, to coming from the le-


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    Unexpectedly a sharp pain split the creature. The small patches of white fur streaking in pattern from behind its ears had been doused in red on the left side.


    With the blow it lost feeling in its legs, them buckling and causing it to fall.


    Leek had taken the moment of distraction to get out of view of the leading wolf and stabbed it just behind the ear, which had knocked (6/8) HP out in one go.


    In retaliation to his offense one of the other wolves had sprang to take his blind spot, but this attack had been parried by the hunk of metal wrapped around his hand.


    The razor filled mouth of the wolf had been knocked upward and out of attacking opportunity.


    Instead of aiming to follow up with the monster Leek had instead chosen to feed his blade to the monster gunning for him from between the prone, and currently stunned wolf.


    He, having been brought to his knee, ducked to run his dagger across the underside of the third wolf.


    The attack did (1/8) HP as the blade was beyond dull, and failed to even penetrate the thick fur. The wolf having missed its attack tumbled over Leek awkwardly, and past him.


    The second wolf, who had been stunned by the blunt force of the shield it was hit by had regained its thought. With this pain shot through its back right leg, Leek who now was laid on the ground stabbed into the paw of the wolf.


    For a split moment he had not been targeted as to one he was simply not visible, and the first wolf was still crippled from the attack behind the ear.


    -Leek: The character interface was still open as he was in the heat of battle. "Quickly." He said to himself, to gather his thoughts coherently.


    He navigated it to place two points into his (EVN)evasion stat, and another into his (TEQ)technique. Once finished he glanced once more at his inventory, and closed the interface.


    This was a nick shy of the next incoming attempt on his life. The fourth wolf which had been just out of his view, to the right of the initial leading wolf, had jumped over his paralyzed brother and come down with its claws and bite onto its prey.


    He could not conceivably block the two striking legs, but he could lodge his shield in the wolfs mouth to prevent it from closing enough to break his arm. Three points of damage from this had brought him down to (8/16) HP.


    Violently the fourth wolf shook in want to free its mouth, as its claws tore into the clothing of its prey. It grew more blood oriented as it felt the freedom to hurt being dangled in its face.


    A deep feeling of hatred for the vile insect currently on top of him exploded from Leek''s heart. His breath control went off the rails with no delay, and the blood in his body warmed enough to bring strength to his appendages.


    His right hand was crammed in the mouth of the wolf. He moved his shielded arm to the furthest left side, and using the new free space shoved his left arm in, with the dagger pointed in a lunge.


    Blood spilled from the creature as the back of its throat had been punctured.


    Wincing in pain it shook again, but this time away from Leek. Letting it gain distance he released his shield and dagger from its mouth. (5/9) HP was taken by the throat stab.


    Quickly Leek forced himself to his feet, but while on a knee again he was confronted by the third wolf, who had picked itself up from the tumble it took.


    It pushed past the retreating fourth, and threw itself at Leek again, but this time his mobility was in question.


    Leek was able to dodge the jaws from cratering his chest or neck, but he was not able to do the same for his upper arm.


    Getting ahold of its preys bicep the monster nearly grinned. Once its feet hit the ground again all it did was sprint and hold. It pulled the flailing body through the grass and into one of the rooted trees.


    The force from the impact ripped Leek its grasp. He could not prevent the rag-dolling of his character as the utter strength, and speed was far too much to handle.


    Resulting form the attack was his HP dropping by two, to (6/16), nearly one-third of what is is at maximum.


    The biggest problem he found in the encounter his is facing is the sheer numbers he was front loaded with. Comparing them, the wolves, to the Wandering Angora had brought in the idea of intelligence from wisdom.


    In little time Leek had been capable of learning the general patterns of the wolves, but understanding this they were wise enough to mix individual differences, and numbers to overwhelm their targeted prey.


    In contrast to this the Angora were intelligent enough to change their style of attack dependent on what the faced. But they lacked the wisdom to act as a proper unit, allowing them to be cut down one by one.


    -Leek: His right arm had nearly been shredded, and the loss of his explosive power lead him to laying under the rooted tree he was battered against. "Shit..." He watched the beautiful sky as it gave warmth to him, from through the leaves.


    Closing his eyes, and letting sounds go unrecognized, he honed in on a feeling coming from the trees around him. They also gave warmth back to the environment, just as the sun did.


    Alongside this he noticed another feeling, one of a mass consuming from what was given to it, preventing too much energy from gathering. He shot up promptly.


    Rotating, he felt the rapid approach of the consuming mass, his head moving to the left as it tracked its movement... Then, his dagger in wait sliced through the air. The precision he showed put the consumption at bay.


    A howl of pain brought him back from the stripped Nirvana he was one with. His eyes opened to the result of his aimless slash, the wounded nose of the wolf which dragged him.


    It had looped from around the tree and silently went to end the helplessly blind piece of meat, only to have been met with an unanticipated debauching of its primary sense.


    A wholly new sense had been opened to him, where he understood what took from the environment, just as the cold does the warm, and what gave. He now with understanding wanted to take.

 Broader World Of People

    Two HP was the damage he had done when cutting the nose of the hostile dog in pain near him. The only saving grace was the disoriented reaction as a result of the attack.


    -Leek: The damage was not up to his liking, so he went about being frustrated. "This dagger is going to get me killed." If he didn''t act on this he''d get stuck in combat forever, losing to his exhaustion.


    A thought. He reached into his inventory quickly, and in one swift motion smashed an item over the tree he had laid his back on. The empty elixir bottle had its bottom shattered into jagged pieces, and any that broke off turned into a sharp dust.


    His toes gripped the ground, and again he compressed in preparation to jump at the wolf. Before he could do that he waited for it to look at him.


    After shaking off the pain from its nose, the creature went to look at its foe. Its eyes ate the sight of a piercing weapon flying at it.


    The broken glass bottle went directly into it, forcing itself into the socket, and irreparably disconnecting its eye from its own head as he rotated it to ensure damage.


    The attack dropped it immediately, a modest amount of blood dripping from its eye as it lay motionless.


    Leek''s face did conjure disgust at the sight, even with the knowledge of its being no more than a pile of code. He wasn''t an avid animal lover, but he was wholly distant from being an emotionless sociopath urging to mutilate them.


    The elixir bottle was made of a thick type of glass, one being far denser than that of a typical drinking glass. Taking his hand to the open bottom Leek let his ring finger glide across the surface, doing so to confirm an idea of his.


    He then brought his dagger to the bottle''s makeshift mouth, running them together at an angle. Ensuring to apply enough pressure he took multiple swipes, alternating the side of the blade.


    -Leek: "Okay. This should do something at the very least..." He hoped this would increase the damage output, as the knife would have been sharpened from its dull state.


    Two of the four wolves were still a passive threat. Luckily they had decided against trailing him into the thin forest. Observing them you would notice the pacing in circles they were doing in unison, waiting for a victor to return to the field.


    One of the wolves had stopped for a moment, taking quick sniffs at the open air. Its attention then drew to its right, a small chunk of edible meat had been launched off into its peripheral. Instinctually it wanted to lunge at the free snack, but instead it shot to its left.


    The monster made eye contact with a sprinting Leek, who had yet reached a point where he could attack without retaliation. It could decipher that he was caught by surprise, as he startled a little at the contact.


    -Leek: "Guess the thing is learning... can only do that so many times I guess." As he left the tree-line he had decided to divert the wolves attention with a rotten Angora Tail, a tactic he had used since the early stages of the battle.


    One of them had been properly drawn from its gaze, but he needed them both to do so. Their distance from the tree-line was too much, not enough for his speed alone to compensate for.


    Having to change his plan Leek decided to clash with the monster head on. The other one, who did get drawn by the thrown tail, would lag behind as a result. It eased the conflict as he needed now to fight only one.


    After closing the distance Leek went to stab his dagger into his foe. Knowingly the wolf threw its head to the outside of his body and went for his arm, attempting to disarm and maim; it would not be caught with such a simple lunge.


    Into the movement the wolf turned its head directly into Leek''s arm, and jumped to clamp into him. Problematically he had perceived this and pulled his body back abruptly, gaining negative distance on the predator.


    As he was in transition to his backpedal he let fly the shattered bottle at the further back wolf. The speed it traveled at was fast enough to catch the right side of its face and some of its ear.


    The closer wolf was directly in front of him, as its speed was significantly ample when regarding Leek''s backpedal. His right hand had thrown the object, and by result was still extended.


    More than enough room of the wolf''s mouth had overlapped its prey''s arm, looking to take it out finally. As it went to chomp down a piercing pain split its head, clearing it of any life.


    Leek had realized his inability to prevent the attack with his left arm, and reflexively unequipped his dagger, which he always wields in his left, choosing to immediately reequip it into his right; allowing it to face the roof of the monster''s mouth as it bit down.


    With that another member of the pack had been taken out, though it could be questionably said to have incidentally taken its own life.


    -Leek: He was not anticipating the single bite to take the rest of its HP, as a previous hit did only (1)HP. "Yeah, that was the correct choice it seems..." He began to question how exactly damage was calculated in this game.


    Before he finished his thought the last standing had leapt over its deceased kin, with just enough height to not clip it.


    Leek had prepared his lunge at anticipation of the coming bug. He spent thought into predicting where it would go for first... likely the leg.


    As it hit the ground the creature pivoted and fled towards the forest Leek had just been in. This was an odd admission of defeat, or even a potential Hale Mary retreat to gain reinforcements.


    Taking this in, Leek darted in the opposite direction, away from where the wolf was running. Instead of taking chase he chose to retrieve the makeshift item he thoughtlessly threw before.


    Getting his hand on the bottle he whipped himself around, and with little precision hit the fleeing monster. Doing enough damage to take it out of the equation.


    This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    -Leek: ..."FINALLY!" The man collapsed onto the ground. He did little but take deep gulps of air, catching his breathe from the mildly frustrating ordeal. "Why the hell was that such a pain... am I weak?"


    Leek had ventured to the section of mountain plain that was above the Guild Capital of Faerilm, under pretense of completing the request stapled onto the bulletin board. Deciding to check his progress on this he opened his UI/Inventory.


    ''Cull The Population Of Dark Wolves Above Faerilm. They Have Begun To Destabilize The Ecosystem Through Overpopulation And Excessive Hunting. | Kill < 27, Gather Their Paws For Additional Compensation'' [COMPLETED]


    -Leek: "Could I turn in the quest for reward, then do it again?" He looked off into the distance, squinting as he tried to answer his own question. "I guess not, I''ll just do the 27 wolves then take a look at other guild quests."


    "What a mighty fine job you done did here." A voice had come from a bit away, belonging to an approaching man.


    This person who had called out in attempt to pull Leek''s attention from its thousand yard gaze was a man. He had little in the way of height, though his guts width was considerable as it seemed to even stand on its own.


    The hair on his head was also fickle, as his hairline had progressed deeply into a recession.


    His saving grace was the highly apparent garb his person was consumed by. His bloated hands were studded with many types of golden items, most being rings topped with a high quality jewel.


    "Just what exactly is your class, for you to wield such a crude set of items? And to come out relatively unscathed. I wonder..." His words quickly darted between points and focus'', as did his expression as he failed to properly convey his goal in conversation. "Maybe a type of hidden talent. Skill proficiency with off the cuff weapons. Over-leveled in the range of multiple multiples...?"


    When Leek had turned to the man he simply stood in wait, trying to figure an actual response to his meandering.


    -Leek: He scratched his head in confusion, though that was in his own head, but his expression did convey this same sentiment. "You''re going to have to give me a more direct question than that, I have no idea what you want."


    "Oh, me! I don''t want much, just to gain your cooperation in understanding your character... I am a Fallen Arc Scholar after all. Ample compensation is due if you can provide intriguing information as to your build in specific."


    The man put his fingers together as though a villain giving a monologue, or speech, depicting how everything that had/could occur was apart of their plan


    -Leek: "Uh, huh. My character..."


    ...


    No path within the Capital was barren, people venturing through the bustling roads all seemed to ignore one another. Mindfully traversing as efficiently as possible.


    The occasional group being caught stopped in the least imposing area to interact with one another.


    The housing of nearly every Guild within the outstretching walls of Faerilm has allowed for the intermixing of otherwise independent groups.


    Many would seek out this place to gain a network of acquaintances that would translate to benefit in the future.


    Leek had gotten better at understanding the flow of traffic, but he was still getting roughly thrown by the sheer amount of people.


    He was set on an establishment that had a very slim footprint, as other places outwardly advertised themselves to passersby.


    "Welcome In Traveller!" These words greeted him as he took a step into the cooled air. "If You Are In Search We Have What You''re Looking For!" A stiffness was apparent in the workers voice, likely coming from their routine statement of those exact words to any who enter.


    -Leek: "Ye-Yeah, I''m looking to check out any attack weapons you might have." He had no specific type in mind so instead he gave a broad idea as to what he may be looking for.


    "Yes, I See. You May Take A Look At This Floor In Its Entirety. For Anything That May Deviate To Defensive, Or General Item, Then I Would Recommend You Check Out Our Second And Third Floors Respectively!"


    She guided her pointed hand through the room they stood in, and turned openly until she stopped on the visible staircase in the back right part of the store.


    Continuing without help from the woman, Leek went on to search for something he could add to his character''s offensive presence.


    ...


    Going back and forth for some time Leek and the man, Zenrael Aheldir, whose name had appeared over his head after the beginning of their conversation, discussed what it was he wanted to know.


    Zenrael let it be known that he had learned of the player Leek, hearing from the grapevine of his interaction with the high Volun Sarek.


    A man new to the capital, guild, and even game managed a unique interaction with the Frozen Blade of The South. Leaving mostly unaffected by his expanding dominion, the one that left even the Exponential Karyel petrified in the incident.


    A ''Fallen Arc Scholar'' dedicates their time collecting information on any prevailing methods of character construction, interesting collection of effects through item matching, undervalued skills, and anything else that would be useful to competitive players.


    With little delay he had set out to intercept this man and negotiate terms, which would allow him to divulge his character''s build. With the state of an VRMMO that evolves with time, and the release of new content, there are constant changes to what is meta.


    Over anything his job was to stay a step ahead of it all. Gaining monetary gain from the monopolization of this knowledge. Selling it to any player who wished to perform at a professional level, and keep form being overtaken by another.


    -Zenrael Aheldir: "Just wow. I would question if you were some kind of admin, but I don''t find that likely. Your character ''Leek'' is something any person would want to get their hands on!" A mild sweat had broken out on his head. "I''d like to buy it from you, just name your price. I''d prefer in game ''Bids,'' but if it be so I can do actual cash!"


    After having digested the particular situation of Leek, the account not the man, he saw no reason to hide behind anymore pleasantries. He did learn what it was he originally wanted to know, but with this he realized the account was what he needed to satiate his craving.


    -Leek: In the face of the man''s genuine offer he did not give much of an expression. "I don''t need money or whatever else you''d offer. I actually started this game cause I freed up a lot of my time. So, I''m good."


    The proposal was definitely one he enjoyed to imagine, but he had no need.


    -Zenrael Aheldir: "I see..." An almost popping belly, held back with a deep purple undershirt, had been wiped clean of any dust/debris. After this his hands fell to their sides. "I have made a promise, so take this. The Ware Emporium would be most useful, their catalog is fairly diverse. Though I myself prefer t-"


    Zenrael had cut himself off as he began to meander a bit. His mouth had even been slightly agape as he licked his teeth ever so slowly, possibly trying to wipe the taste of defeat from his mouth.


    With nothing left to discuss Leek went on his way, not wasting another moment of his or the man''s time. He strutted by the complacent Zenrael, into the far stretch of the field, and away from sight.


    He got far enough away that shouting would be necessary to regain his attention.


    A foot imprint, which subtly pressed down on the grass, took a step forward and with it a force of wind blew past Zenrael.


    A figure dressed head-toe in stereotypical Japanese ninja attire showed himself to Zenrael, a mere two feet behind where Leek stood. "He is no threat."


    A deep baritone voice came from under the sharply angled black demon mask it wore.


    Hanging on its back, with the blade nearly touching the ground, was an oversized scythe.


    Turning enough to glimpse at the unassuming man, Zenrael retorted. "For now at least. I need to ensure he is not found out by the public, lest I wish for a bidding war without me at the helm. I do wo-" Again he cut himself off, in exchange for simplicity.


    "Yes. As you''d wish." Taking a shallow bow, to then step closer, the figure dispersed back into the passing wind, which followed in trail of the departed man, who had faded from view by this point.


    Now alone in the field Mr. Aheldir took a couple breaths, as one or two happened to get away from him at some point. Lack of cardio seemed to be something he had to deal with on a daily basis.


    His head shook with a twinge of anxiety on his face, "What a shame, really..."

 Better Gear

    There was the option to browse the store physically or to scroll through the entire catalog through a pop-up screen.


    The majority of people who came into the establishment would use this, as to save unnecessary time.


    In a thoughtful silence, Leek took a look at the vast selection offered, choosing to do so with his eyes.


    Clubs, javelins, handaxes, crossbows, rapiers, flails, glaives, scimitars, whips, darts, throwing stars, katanas... and more.


    These were all displayed neatly in their appropriate sections.


    A variety of individuals were engraved with a shimmering deep gold. They had clear emphasis, as the highest quality weapons were placed near them, such as a museum with their historical figures.


    Certain items were placed behind the protection of a glass case, while anything of mid-lower quality was left out in the open. To be touched by any hands.


    When you looked close enough at the sealed items they had a clear engraving etched into their designs. When interacted with a small textbox would appear and give the creator''s name.


    Through all the strong and brittle nothing piqued Leek''s interest. He browsed with no urgency, simply looking through everything and evaluating their practical use.


    -Leek: His hands coddled a fair rapier, "This might be too much choice..." Putting down the blade he placed it back into its hanging sheath.


    "Would You Like Any Help, I See You''re Not Too Fond Of Anything?!" The shop worker who had greeted him came over to the man, who stood in it longer than the average person.


    "If You Don''t Mind My Input, I Would Recommend At The Least A Set Of Throwables."


    As she spoke Leek paid decent attention, yet he still didn''t fall too much for her smooth words. Taking into account that the worker may be compensated through commission, thus wanting to upsell him.


    With help from the woman Leek had been able to narrow down his options to weapons he''d likely do the best with.


    Blunt weapons were an easy afterthought, his ''Cut Throat'' skill would not be utilized to its actual potential with them, as they lack the prominent ability to cut.


    Far-Long range ones wouldn''t benefit his ''Coldening Feeling'' skill, since he''d be out of range to gather the proper aggro he would want.


    No doubt he was going to take advantage of Elixirs and Potions, as he did with the vitality elixirs he had consumed in the encounter with the Wandering Angora.


    -Leek: "I already have some decent sustain, so I''d be pretty tanky with healing items." He went from a mild whisper to projected questioning, "Speaking of buffs; How would I go about learning spells?"


    When it came to mind he realized that he had yet to encounter any overt magic usage, of which he did not go out of his way to look for.


    -Jylinia: "Oh. I''ve never been asked that question... I''d suppose you could go and join a church, whose principals you align with. You could also devote yourself to an individual god, not going through a church, though the chance of catching their eye is slimmer than none. Or you could spend the required funds to have access to scrolls, and learn from them."


    The very general answer wasn''t what he was expecting. In the original Fallen Arc, you would have to become a warlock or abuse single-use spells, if you didn''t choose a spell caster at character selection.


    -Leek: "Well, thanks for the information..." Her response was far more general than he''d have expected.


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    He would just use the wiki as a reference as he wanted to use it to properly incorporate magic into his character.


    After much more discussion he had settled on a weapon to try, with the forethought of being able to simply switch if he found them less than useful.


    -Jylinia: "If that is all I can put all the items together for you!" Before getting a response she went about collecting every item of Leek''s interest, the top of her head bobbing as she did so.


    Players, and even NPCs, would stand just outside the establishment, or in the case of overcrowding they would come in but stand directly beside the door. This left the two alone, together.


    Only once was their long conversation interrupted by an outside person. A single question is what was asked, regarding a pricing situation, to which a single answer satiated the asker.


    A few sets of potions, scrolls, and a large quantity of consumable throwables were collected by the dozen, being dropped into a single bag.


    -Jylinia: She returned to face Leek with his intended purchases. "Everything is in here, and accounted for!" Her chest being pushed out as some sign of pride.


    She held out the bag by its yellow drawstrings, presenting them to Leek.


    -Leek: "That was quick. Thank you, for the help." He reached out to take the bag and its contents but stopped before doing so. "My bad, I almost forgot payment..."


    Quickly he reached into his inventory and pulled out an unfamiliar item. It was the one given to him by Zenrael as gratitude for their discussion.


    Taking notice of the item Jylinia, whose face was already fairly animated, nearly jumped from surprise.


    -Jylinia: "Oh my, I did not know! I would not have caused you so much trouble..." Halfway through she had gone into a bow, now presenting the bag in the palms of her hands. "Please forgive me!"


    The reaction got nothing more than a slight eyebrow raise and a slight squint, from Leek. He used context to assume this had to do with the voucher given to him.


    It was a black card, trimmed through its center with a gold-like metal. It had nothing written on it and was as it seemed at first sight.


    But as it was an item in a game you could pull up the description programmed to it.


    [Financial recommendation of, The Honourable Alhedir Zenrael Faeriaght, first male heir to the Faeriaght Barony]


    -Leek: "I don''t know how far up a Baron is, but maybe I should have flashed this before. Could have grabbed a couple more items?..." The man he met was a person of royalty.


    Before he went to think these thoughts, he motioned for Jylinia to raise her head from its bow.


    -Jylinia: Her hands were still being held out towards Leek, who had yet to take the bag from her hands. "Please accept my wares!"


    ''If the title of Duke is the highest or at least one of the highest, then below that would be a Count.... Or mayb-''


    -Leek: "My bad, I was thinking of somethi- it''s not important, never mind." The bag came into his possession finally, as he accepted it. Jylinia could now put her arms at ease.


    -Jylinia: "If you''re looking for better gear, with proper preparation, we can gather a high-class blacksmith from the Smithing Guild at your request!" She did not bow anymore, but still clearly displayed her submission through her body language.


    An abrupt change in her actions was still throwing Leek off, he had never been given a pedestal to stand over another.


    He did not find anything wrong in it, as he did not force it. Rather it had been given, with context to his character and personality.


    ___


    Status Page: Leek (15)


    [ Skill Points: 3 ]


    HP 16 (+2)


    SPD 8 (+2)


    VIT 9 (+0)


    TEQ 3 (+3)


    EVN 5 (+4)


    SSK 2


    [ LUCK: 7 ](+5)


    Inventory: Dagger(Useless), Shield (Useless), Clothing (Used), Shoes (Useless), (1)Elixir: Vitality/Basic, Coin Pouch: 97, (6)Angora Tails: Rotten, (7)Angora Tails: Fresh


    ___


    +Inventory: (1)Drawstring Bag: Basic, (9)Shuriken, (16)Kunai, Gauntlet Pair(Pristine), (6)Potion: Speed/Normal, (3)Elixir: Health/Normal, (3)Elixir: Mana/Higher, (4)Potion: Health/Higher, (6)Scroll: Transcribe/Superior, Glaive(Pristine)


    ___


    -Leek: "Hmmm." The amount of clutter he felt when looking at his inventory was a bit too much. "I have a dagger and buckler shield, at least what''s left of them, can I sell them to you for anything?"


    Leek took the two deformed hunks of metal, one in either hand, and presented them to Jylinia. They had little life left in them, as they had been driven to the extent of their usability.


    -Jylinia: She took a step closer to identify if he had not grabbed the incorrect items by accident. "I have not seen this kind of craftsmanship before, do you know its origin? If not, I can get it looked at for you."


    -Leek: He spoke in response. "Could you do that then? And I had bought it a while back, so I have no idea where it came from." He handed the two things to Jylinia, who promptly put them away.


    With nothing else to discuss, Leek bid farewell to Jylinia. He enjoyed the time they spent with one another.


    Through his ignorance he gained a few nuggets of knowledge from the woman. He saw no waste in their interaction.


    *Bing* a chime rang again, doing so just before he could log out. ''You Have Become Fairly Acquainted With Jyllinia, The Emporium Owner!''


    -Leek: As he pressed the button, removing him from the digital world, a mild smile showed on his face. "I sure am gaining some new friends..."

 Searching Around

    -Leek: As he pressed the button, removing him from the digital world, a mild smile showed on his face. "I sure am gaining some new friends..."


    Hakeem, the man behind the character Leek, pulled the blank headset from his head. He did so carefully to not tangle the many wires connecting it to his PC.


    He stood and put the headset on the beanbag chair he just got up from. The room again was dark, with the only taste of light coming from his computer monitor.


    -Hakeem: Pulling the padded chair back enough from under the desk housing his PC/monitors to sit on it, he went and checked his messages. "Gray is always begging me to play this damn game. But now he wants to procrastinate!.."


    The monitor housing his messenger application was now open, with the recipient ''DarkGraySpectacle'' highlighted specifically.


    "Hurry up and get on. I''m already getting tired of playing this by myself." "Also, the player interaction is pretty cool. I didn''t expect it to have proximity chat, especially in a vrmmo." "That shit would get toxic so fast imo."


    These messages were sent to his friend Gray, the person who painstakingly took the time to convince Hakeem to join him in Fallen Arc 2: Online, in the first place.


    Quickly after he did so the small icon next to the profile picture turned green, and a text loading bubble popped up. "Calm down. Running errands for MA. Getting on in like forty-five."


    -Hakeem: "Yeah, right. I''d be closer to an hour-fifty before he''d even think about it." The consistent lies Gray is known to give when referring to time, in any manner, gives little truth to his clear-cut words.


    No response to Gray''s message was needed as his icon went dim again, indicating the lack of attention he paid to the conversation. Going out to do what it is he found the time worthy of.


    Hakeem chose to close the messaging application. With nothing else to send he replaced the tab with that of a forum, regarding the topic of Fallen Arc 2: Online.


    Many argued over the current state of the game, pulled between the mind-space of whether to support or cast aside, the effort of the developers. These were the most vocal players, not the majority.


    If drawn with a broad brush, the overall stance on the game was it being revolutionary with implemented features, and phenomenal in nearly every other category.


    A big downside to it though is a lack of clear communication and the still relatively small amount of concurrent players. If an issue arose there was no way to ensure the developers would take it into account, or even receive it in the first place.


    He spent little time on each one of the individual forums. Looking at them subjectively, each one would just divulge into an echo chamber of elitists who believe they''re always correct.


    One of the three drinks in his mini-fridge was now placed on his desk, beside the weathered keyboard connected to his computer. Hakeem took shallow sips from the can, placing them back on the desk as he continued with his self-acclaimed ''research.''


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    In the background was a randomly chosen podcast, playing in a headset to feed his craving for distraction. Even with this, he''d go about ignoring it entirely, giving no attention to any topics brought up.


    He was actively searching through multiple wikis, trying to get a better idea of how the game''s mechanics work in specific. Not forgetting to take a look at any after-creation builds for magic sub-classes.


    -Hakeem: "... None of this matches my stats" He took a deep gulp from the drink, forcing it down with a light cough to clear his lungs. "Hit-Points, Mana, Strength, Agility, then Proficiencies... These aren''t even renames, they''re entirely different."


    Finding out the difference in his character in comparison to how FAO is meant to work let loose a curiosity.


    Fallen Arc 2: Online is a mostly gear-based game focused on the progression and micromanaging of acquired/created items and weapons. Countering this a bit would be the character''s background influence on their capabilities.


    The original game, where Leek came from, was on a different part of the spectrum.


    The gear you could acquire was straightforward, as you''d be able to upgrade one you like, or switch it for a different one with attributes that synergize better with your play style; it was not a focus.


    -Hakeem: He checked to be sure no one else had come across this type of porting bug. "Okay, so Gray was right about this being a unique account. If I don''t get banned or something, might as well keep playing him." His heart skipped a little as his thoughts.


    Moving past the idea of Leek being one-of-one, Hakeem finished answering his question.


    To play a magic caster he could don a class, outside of the traditional Druid, Sorcerer, Shaman, and (relative to background choices) Cleric. Those classes would require the character to be built with them in mind, to begin with.


    If you were to build a backstory where you were a merciless murderer then the choice of Cleric would not stand to any value; and say you were born a low-class nobleman, within a family of sorcerers then a shaman would be wholly impossible to spec into.


    He remembered when he logged in initially. "Stats/Investments, Equipment, Skills/Special Skills, Backstory, and more were briefed in sections, providing in meticulous detail every aspect of the character Leek."


    The entire section at the start screen would be useful to understand who Leek is, and what he would be best suited for.


    -Hakeem: "I should probably read that..." He came to terms with the potential soft locks built into Leek. He had already invested in the usage of scrolls to supplement any lack of magic usage.


    His interest had been consumed, and run dry, by the actions he took to learn about the game, its general mechanics, and a fun-size amount of the world''s lore.


    Instead, he turned to give attention to the podcast, changing it to a video documentary about some obscure concept he wanted to learn more about.


    His feet met the chair''s seat as he pulled his knees to his chest, leaning forward a bit more to relieve strain on his lower-mid back.


    Before long he found himself down the video rabbit hole, going from one to another, mindlessly disregarding how much he was digesting. His eyes were straining a bit, and his head had a minor tension headache.


    Tiring himself out. He went to the beanbag once again, moving it carefully to manage the many cables. He put it on, laid back with all his weight, and waited.


    In time a prompt showed up, different from the type given by FAO. The question came directly from the Full Stream Headset on his head.


    ''Would You Like to Sleep, With A Wake Up To Fallen Arc 2: Online?'' It was silent when it appeared, and wasn''t too bright, as a result, it did not disrupt his feeling of sleep.


    -Hakeem: "Nice. Hate when games try to gatekeep sleeping, every one of them should do this!" A smirk wasn''t too far from fading from his face.


    ''Yes'' was his choice. So preparing himself he let go of his hold on his body, melting away as the room spun around for a moment, again.

 Gray Joining

    ''Waking Up! Fallen Arc 2: Online Waits For Your Arrival Once More.'' This interrupted Hakeem''s dream, abruptly pulling him into an empty mind-scape, partially resembling his bedroom.


    -Hakeem: "Oh... I think... just how... could I... love naught... too litt-..." Intelligible words, lining up to fall from Hakeem''s mouth went into the silent void.


    His rambling continued up until he was shaken awake by his conscious presence in the bustling city of Faerilm, and it''s now-recognizable Ware Emporium.


    -Leek: His eyes felt heavy, but did not force him to close them. "Hmmm. Jylinia isn''t working now I guess." Having no reason to stay here Leek walked over to the front door, held it for an individual, and left without a word.


    Aimless, he wandered about.


    Taking notice he figured that sections of the city had alternating types of architecture.


    These revolved around the guilds placed throughout the capital, all having a sort of pull/influence on all surrounding commercial buildings.


    -Leek: "Wonder if different teams designed each guild? Even the way the stones are placed is unique." Something he always found valuable was sightseeing.


    With the initial implementation of Full Stream Headsets and their advertised features, Leek saw the future in visual technology.


    The brain would become the direct vessel for graphics rendering, surpassing anything the eye could interpret from a monitor.


    Bringing the previously bland to beyond vivid.


    Properly articulating himself, the sense of groggy having been wiped clean. Leek decided to take his business to the Hunters Guild.


    His dislike for the type of mission given by the Adventurers Guild was due to just that; them being adventure-based. A need to travel extensively.


    With the insubstantial abilities he possessed now it would be futile to explore anything, the quick-time scenarios would without a doubt be suited for the end-game players.


    With this thought he brought back up the idea of guilds and their utility.


    In the game, there was a distinction between the Guilds. Typically you would come about one/three central powerhouses that control all players, and the distribution of their needs.


    FAO had an alternate take on this. The emergence of guilds did so under the necessity to protect the members, and their innate craft, from predation of another party.


    Under the need for separation, to allow for checks and balances, no single guild holds a broad brush from their initial intended purpose. Merchants Guild does not hold domain over traders, and vice versa.


    He reached the face of the Guild. People consistently flowed to and from the doors. The allowed amount of visible players had adjusted, forcibly reducing the amount, to make up for the sheer number.


    -Leek: "Yeah, no. I''m good." Talking to the influx of people, all of whom he had no intention of meeting, Leek went into his settings to drop the permitted visible players down to their lowest. "Got me messed up."


    By now there was a more comfortable movement of people through the Guild Hall. It was clear that a high demand was in call for the hunter quests.


    Two bulletin boards were stationed on either side of the large doors. Each had its collection of hunters looking to accept a quest and progress themselves.


    Another two were placed on the left and right side of the building respectively, coming from a more backstreet alley, connecting to the main road after passing the guild; people were less pushy to reach these.


    -Leek: "I don''t see any quests actually on them... gotta go in then." Both shoulders fell at the needless requirement. To accept, and even view a single mission from an unaffiliated guild you would need to apply for any permit or membership.


    Falling into possession of membership was no effort, specifically when in direct comparison to the ordeal that occurred at the Adventurers Guild. He walked to the counter, requested for instatement to the guild, and filled out a few forms.


    The quest boards on the inside had less of a crowd. He went over to the furthest one, away from the direct view of people entering.


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Each listing had to do with the elimination of some mob. They varied in value with how many needed to be eliminated, the quality of monster, their rarity, and the strength/effort needed to complete the quest.


    Luckily these quests did not need a person to travel far beyond the bounds and walls encasing the capital Faerilm.


    Outside the bustling city was the vast open plain, and the dense winding forest that brings you to the foot of Faerilm.


    The flowing grass was segmented as that of a terraced rice field, with quarters of a mile per step.


    This was as Leek experienced when first setting eyes on the city and its surroundings, leaving the dense canopy into the depths of sunlight.


    *Ding* went the system''s chime. ''You Have Two New Friend Requests, From: Dark2raySpec, and, Light8lack_3232''


    -Leek: He was surprised to see the names that were attempting to friend him. "Took the punk long enough!" No hesitation halted him from immediately accepting the two invitations.


    ~Light8lack_3232: "This is my alt. Should be low enough to play wit you. Gimme little. Need to turn in this quest."


    Right after accepting the invites, Leek had been given this message directly from Gray, the friend he waited for so long to join him. It was a request for more time.


    No doubt in his mind kept him from putting the ask for another extension past the actions of Gray.


    Anticipating their reunion Leek went forward with undertaking a quest to buy himself more time for Gray''s arrival.


    ''Eliminate As Many Invasive CaneToad''s From The Fields Surrounding Faerilms Base. | Kill 0<, Bring Their Legs For Confirmation|''


    Another mindless slaying quest was his choice. He did not wish to interact with anything more "lore"-centric as progression could require his character to be of a higher level to properly proceed.


    From over his shoulder, Leek felt the attention of someone peering at him. He did speak without anyone present to hear it in conversation, but not so bold enough to cause someone''s eye to be drawn to him.


    Thoughtless paranoia, he brushed the feeling off as such. Though effort had to be put forth for him to pretend to believe that as truth.


    Having undertaken the toad elimination quest he pulled out a piece of paper. It was the physical representation of the wolf mission he had already finished.


    Leek presented it to the board in exchange for his compensation.


    *Ding* It went again. ''[+8 Half-Bids] | [+16 Hunter EXP] | [+21 Adventurer EXP] | [+Quest Conversion: Exploration]''


    -Leek: "Quest conversion?" The paper in his hand had not become intangible, the words explaining its reason for existence rather had shifted around before his eyes.


    ''Something Is Occurring With The Population Of Wolves, For Whatever Reason They Have Gotten Stronger And Denser In Number |Explore The Wolves Den Above Faerilm|''


    -Leek: The intrigue that came from an accidentally triggered quest expansion was not enough to cause him to undertake it without thought. "I''ll do this later. Someone else might be on it already anyway."


    He then looked in his inventory, taking a proper look at what it was exactly he had access to. During this information gathering he nearly dropped the clothing and shoes he was currently equipped with.


    They were of such poor quality he''d mistaken them for that of random loot, having been picked up in passing from a new player; upgrading from the low-quality rags they''re given at game-start.


    So, before he could set out to test his new toys Leek went to another shop, wanting to upgrade his outfit to properly match how he viewed himself.


    ""


    -???: "So sir, I employ you justly. Provide me the cloth which breeds you much warmth. So I may forgo my ignorance!"


    -Leek: ..."Don''t think I''m comfortable with that, you''re weird. But lemme see what you do have." This response came after much flurry of attempted persuasion.


    A hole-in-the-wall shop, when compared to that of the Ware Emporium, that had a confining feeling was Leek''s current location.


    Window shopping pulled for Leek to take a step in and look. With little time to himself, he was ambushed by the store manager and one of his employees.


    They both gave a ravenous lust for the clothing on his back.


    -???: "O-Of course! Diyeana, retrieve the sir our catalog at ONCE!" The same individual who spoke before yelled to the employee, throwing his hands carelessly to the back of house.


    After brief conversation, Leek came to the understanding that the material his clothing was made from was their desire.


    A mostly extinct cloth that was once easily accessible to the people of this country. Through war, its commercial manufacture had stopped completely as profits were incapable of being made at its production.


    It was something few of even noble birth would have the standing to hold onto for long.


    -Diyeana: Quickly paced, the sent-off worker reemerged with a thin piece of paper, handing it humbly to the mysterious man in broadcloth. "This includes any restricted supply we would, and will, have in time to come."


    The entire interaction was overwhelming. It came and went, yet had a strong tone of lasting forever.


    Leek managed to leave the establishment with a higher quality outfit but did reluctantly, as the strong push for them left a bad taste in his mouth, leaving behind his old pairs.


    -Leek: "Yeah, ain''t going back there unless I got too..." With his head falling, and in his now downtrodden state, Leek set off to test his new weapons and strategy.


    ___


    Status Page: Leek (15)


    [ Skill Points: 3 ]


    HP 16 (+2)


    SPD 8 (+2)


    VIT 9 (+0)


    TEQ 3 (+3)


    EVN 5 (+4)


    SSK 2


    [ LUCK: 7 ](+5)


    Inventory: (1)Elixir: Vitality/Basic, Coin Pouch: 97, (6)Angora Tails: Rotten, (7)Angora Tails: Fresh, (1)Drawstring Bag: Basic, (9)Shuriken, (16)Kunai, Gauntlet Pair(Pristine), (6)Potion: Speed/Normal, (3)Elixir: Health/Normal, (3)Elixir: Mana/Higher, (4)Potion: Health/Higher, (6)Scroll: Transcribe/Superior, Glaive(Pristine)


    ___


    +Inventory: Clothing (Pristine), Shoes (Pristine)


    ___


    Coldening Feeling: When Active The User Gains Increased Perception To Nearby Characters/Mobs | Paranoia (1)Stacks With Each Character/Mob In Vicinity While Active, Increasing Hyper-Fixation. Decreases Vitality With Every (2)Stack.


    Cut Throat: Increases The Chances To Land Critical Hits For As Long As Bloodlust (3)Stacks Have Been Placed On The User | Reduces Accuracy And Evasion, The User Becomes Frenzied.


    ___

 Look At Something New

    Leek having undertaken the toad elimination quest traveled to the city gate, consolidating with the many others who had a need to be there.


    Many caravans of people and individual carts pulled into, and out of, Faerilm with a smooth sense of efficiency. Some are pulled by a horse, with others being drawn with more unconventional creatures.


    -Leek: Through the blanketing cover of passersby one mount, under use by a player caught Leek''s eye. "An elemental warpig, that''s pretty cool." He saw a single person sitting crisscross atop a large warthog.


    The mount was highly contrasting to the blandness of every other person''s. It needed to be cleared for entrance, as the element it exhumed was frost.


    Any who happened to get near would have their feet set to a slow crawl, and even occasionally completely attached to the ground.


    Ice was forming around its exposed tusks, and seemed to even form a crown above its head.


    A guard covered head to toe in glistening armor moved from his post, shouting, "MAKE WAY! MAKE WAY FOR THE TAMER''S GUILD!" as he went.


    Doing so ensures the safe passage of the man and his familiar, preventing anyone from becoming victim of a freak accident.


    People split between the sides of the road, leaving most of it for the display of power, whispered in awe at the spectacle.


    "Dude, I almost missed this. I got stuck in the Crept Mine Dungeon because my tank decided to use light armor!"


    "I''m telling you, the Giant Frosthog is a crazy hard mount to get. I died six times trying to calm a regular one!"


    "They let that guild get away with this, but if they even got a whiff of us trying to display our finds it''d be a problem!.."


    "Am I missing something or... I thought we couldn''t bring tamed beasts through the main doors?"


    The words of people chatting to one another were picked up by Leek on accident, but they did give a better understanding of what it was that was going on.


    People were not too keen on the idea of taming. Not in a negative opinion, rather they did not see it as desirable when starting the game.


    Controlling the low-level monsters would not be valuable, instead considered as only roleplay. To supplement this the guild would host a showcase of their recent Journeyman''s achievement.


    Giving a clear road of progression for any skilled individuals who would join the guild drew in more inexperienced players. All looking to get their hands on the beast shown to them during these showcases.


    Another main point was the ignorance when it came to the upkeep of tamed companions, they were not summons, and thus could not simply return to a state of suspended animation when not in use.


    With time they would become hungry, angry, unfulfilled, and potentially die if neglected.


    Backing of the Tamer''s Guild would take the shouldering of initial debt, and effort, to properly take care of these creatures.


    -Leek: He slowly waddled sideways to the main gate. "Once again. That''s cool and all, but isn''t something I''d try till late-game..." He said this to himself, but as if responding directly to the broad mentality held for the current exhibit.


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    When he did finally reach the gate there was still the requirement to wait for the final tamed beast to enter the city.


    Sharp Land Serpent, Vengeful Ape-Man, Ethereal WarHorse, WhiteYang Bear... Feasts for the eyes, but it drew long as Leek wanted to leave more than he wished to watch.


    Eventually, the last tamer''s passed Leek by, and the others who crammed to watch in anticipation.


    The stationed guards returned to their post just outside the walls, and anyone to enter/exit as they pleased.


    -Leek: The moment the gate was open again for any to use he briskly walked out. "Finally. That felt like an unskippable cutscene." He could now directly head to the fields where the toads tempted him.


    ""


    -???"No portion of my expertise could hope to explain why he''d become audacious enough to seek admission to a guild." The stout man spouted this off, as he reclined further into his chair. "To refuse an offer of Student Journeyman status... What could he hope to gain outside of its sphere of influence, for it to be of no mind to him?"


    -???: "No clue, his refusal of direct proposal throws out monetary gain... Maybe he''s stupid, or not the most wise, either way, there''s an eye on him. Nothing he does will go unnoticed." Between his words, the pot-bellied man scoffed down pastries he had on a silver platter placed in his lap.


    -???: Responding to the second man''s statement, he continued. "That of it does not placate my uneasy, trust for his kind will not be earned through thoughtless reconnaissance." A twinge of emotion broke through his controlled demeanor... "While we gather information I anticipate you have employed counterintelligence measures."


    A piece of parchment was at the head of the desk. The first man to speak, who still sat reclined, pushed it back to the other, letting him know the information on it had been received appropriately.


    -???: "Of course, I''m not dimwitted, you look down on me too much. Anyways, with help we can blackball the guilds, but players would be the problem." As he finished the man loudly sucked at his fingers, not caring for the layers of jewelry he had on, with viscous syrup getting stuck in between them.


    At the noise caused by his unsavory antics, the room went silent. The first man brought himself to think. Players were always unpredictable, this was a clear issue, especially if taken into account beforehand.


    -???: Sitting back up straight, the man dropped the air of thought he had. "That is something. Keep an eye on the boy and update me accordingly. I''ll need time to think this over a bit more, for now... You''re dismissed."


    -???: "SIR, YES SIR!" With his now saliva-ridden hand, the man gave a firm salute. "Hehehehe, how stern you are."


    With nothing left to communicate, the man took his leave, purposefully forsaking the tray and the piled mess he created.


    ""


    Leek now stood where the quest had sent him, the step fields just outside Faerilm. He looked around at the others who were engaged in brawls against wild mobs.


    -Leek: "Hmmm, let me prepare first." He put his left hand forward, drawing at his item to be equipped within it.


    With a gust of wind, Leek managed to grasp his weapon. A glaive standing above his head, not a spot blemishing its beauty.


    Very similar to the traditional ones seen from Chinese descendance, it was a piece of razor-sharp metal attached to a long pole. The backside split into its own point, angled in the same direction as the rest.


    Opposing the ones with a large tapered edge this blade remained thin, remaining just about the same size before reaching the tip.


    The razor''s sheen was a metallic gray, with a minor accent of red at the base where it connects to the pole. The grip was a brown leather, wrapped many times over to ensure its inert feeling.


    Cutting into the leather grip, separating it, was a diamond-shaped section of gold. This was not perfectly placed in the pole''s middle, rather it was to give a format of hand placement.


    Leek, admiring once again the look of this weapon, put his right hand forward this time. With recoil, his hand equipped a gauntlet.


    Stopping at the high forearm this was made of a dark material, reinforced everywhere except for its joints with another gray metal. The difference was that the gauntlet had more blunt, and multiple times reinforced, alloy.


    -Leek: "Nice! Too bad they didn''t let me equip inside the city. I''d look crazy good." He snickered at his words, knowing they were a bit far-fetched.


    He then went about placing a few potions, and throwables, of his in a hot bar as he did the gauntlet and his glaive. Dictating a specific command to summon them into his hands when needed.


    Just as he went about concluding this a tremor shook the land beneath his feet.


    -Leek: Preparing to attack he waited diligently for anything sudden to appear in his sight. "So that''s where they come from."


    Shooting from the ground rose a green serpent, its underside spotted with yellow. It was not the large toad Leek hoped for, but he fought it nonetheless.

 Garlneth

    Snapping its unhinged jaw forward the [Giant Hypsiscopus (11)] went for the neck, wasting no time in its assault.


    The prepared Leek took his glaive and slashed as fast as he could at the now airborne monster.


    Before he felt the blade come back down to his control Leek used his momentum to follow up.


    His body went to his right, and with this, he used the momentum to spin off his heel. His right hand extended and with the spin, he followed up rapidly. Again, cutting at the monster.


    Once his feet planted again, he braced himself to face the [Giant Hypsiscopus (11)]''s response.


    Nothing...


    When his eyes focused properly he noticed that the monster had been chopped into three large chunks. One being half of its total size, with the other two sharing the remaining portion of its body mass.


    As he looked down at the deceased snake it began to decay rapidly.


    [(+2)Scales: Weak/Common] | [(+1)Oral Glands: Common/Venomous]


    -Leek: He had not anticipated the gap in strength. The Hysiscopus was the highest-level creature he''s fought till now. "Holy..."


    When interacting up to this point Leek had only been using the crippled dagger and shield, for whatever reason forgetting to have switched them until this point.


    A renewed sense of excitement went through his digital veins, pumping him up to annihilate more bugs who dared challenge him.


    Instead of waiting Leek broke out into a sprint, heading for the distance. When he brought his mind to search he could feel the general location of a mob he wanted to hunt.


    With no doubt, it was an unconscious activation of his [Coldening Feeling] skill. He exchanged parts of his sanity and fortitude for heightened perception.


    Once he got within the vicinity of the [Large CaneToad (13)] he wasted no time, jumping into action with little thought.


    His feet left the ground, effortlessly gliding with him as he gained height. Above his head was his readied glaive, which clenched with anticipation to fall through its prey.


    With a hop, the [Large CaneToad (13)] rotated to face its enemy. "Grhrrgggh" it went, opening its mouth after doing so.


    In little time a large mass shot from between its lacking lips, directly placing itself in the middle of the Toad and Leek.


    A punch, Leek used this to counter the launched tongue.


    The gauntlet on his arm allowed his hand to remain unfazed from the attack. He did need to remove it from his glaive to do so, thus reducing the amount of force he could generate on the down-swing.


    No damage from his punch was done, instead, the tongue retracted back into the [Large CaneTaod (13)]''s gullet. "Grhrrgggh" it said again.


    Coming down from his jump Leek pulled at his glaive, putting his force downward to let his blade slit the body of the monster.


    The length of his blade was not enough to pierce through its body cleanly. If it had been extended it would most definitely have been possible, as where it did land could not stop it from penetrating.


    [(+3)Toad Legs: Common/Material] | [(+1)Toad Tongue: Common/Material]


    Just as the Hypsiscopus had done after its flatline, the Large CaneToad became a sum of parts, fizzling away. Any blood that had been spilled also found itself dissipated after its death.


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    When his feet stood above the dead [Large CaneToad (13)] Leek withdrew his partner from its lying carcass.


    -Leek: "Hmmph." This was his response. His eyes only grazed the sight of the fallen monster; turning his head to simply find his new plaything.


    ...


    His mission came to head in no time. Leek needed not to worry for his safety as he went about hacking apart Large CaneToads with a nonchalant attitude, posing no difficult challenge.


    During this endeavor Leek went about removing the threat of any [Giant Hypsiscopus (11)]''s, who attempted to catch his guard off its balance while he fought.


    -Leek: "Now that was some fun... but I''m going to need an actual challenge." Living out a brief power fantasy was a thrill, but he did not join this game to simply bully lower-level monsters.


    [(+47) Toad Legs: Common/Material] | [(+7)Toad Tongue: Common/Material] | [(+12)Scales: Common/Material] | [(+3)Oral Glands: Uncommon/Venomous]


    He had killed approximately fourteen [Large CaneToad (13)]''s, and did the same for seven [Giant Hypsiscopus (11)]''s.


    While he tallied his game a message notification popped up, instructing Leek about a message in wait for him.


    ~Light8lack_3232: "Hey. Why you at the guild capital? I''m here tho. The front gate."


    An awaited message reached Leek''s inbox telling him of Gray''s long-anticipated arrival.


    He stopped and chose to reply, "Coming. Gimme a little to head back, like three minutes max!"


    -Leek: Standing idle, he let out his frustration. "He''s pretty damn lucky. I was close to quitting like yesterday!" He closed the message tab.


    ''Eliminate As Many Invasive CaneToad''s From The Fields Surrounding Faerilm''s Base. | Kill 0<, Bring Their Legs For Confirmation|'' [Completed]


    Technically the quest had been done ever since he killed the first CaneToad, though he hoped his efforts would be rewarded. The wording specified the legs, so the EXP likely scaled with the amount he had.


    Going by the amount of legs would be best for Leek. In his killing spree rarely did he get a drop of only a singular leg, with up to four coming from one kill.


    In the case he found the quest as disproportionately valuable he crossed his fingers at the possibility for him to accept it after submission. He was taking his shot at manipulating an arbitrage in the game economy.


    Either way, he broke into a quick stride, his character taking a straight shot for Faerilm''s gate.


    Leek did not let up on his sprint to the gate.


    He got within eyesight, close enough to see the most recent caravan pulling into the city, disappearing past the dense walls from Leek''s current point of vision.


    And even in full panic, he could not ignore the serene beauty of the city when at half-day. The glittery shimmer, from the very light mist coming from over the edge of the hanging mountain, reflecting the sun''s rays. It was an impeccable addition to its design.


    From his closing distance, Leek could see the floating marker for Gray''s character [Garlneth Toofargariyan (22)].


    He did not fail to question the name of this indicator, as it directly conflicted with the username given to him. It was a blatant deviation. But when put up to scrutiny there was no other option.


    it was located where Gray said he would be, there were no others on his friend list, outside of the mysterious Reighley, and the comical parody of the name was also an action Gray would throw out.


    By now Leek reached the gate.


    He walked just behind the caravan he watched enter the city. It was moving at a paced crawl, and coming to an even more gradual slow.


    Permittance through the city''s portcullis was conditional to Leek putting his weapons away/into a safe stance. His glaive was put onto his back, hanging with its head down, and sheathed with a covering.


    The gauntlet on his hand was placed on his waist, tied by two thin strings coming from its inside.


    The pulled caravan progressed far enough to have all the patrons abroad file out in number, all paying their fare before departing in their own interest.


    Plentiful amounts of people did spawn beside the vehicle, not being visible while it traveled along.


    One of the few who sat in a seat, not hidden, stepped off the wagon; it was a knight. The armor it wore was dark silver, beginning at the helm and stopping at the chest and shoulders.


    Under this rigid covering was a green cloth accented with details of white, it draped down to just above the knee. The cloth''s chest was designed with a brown, forming the shape of a long shield.


    His waist, firearms, lower legs, and sections of the pectoral were layered with sturdy leather. These were all fastened by compiling silver buckles.


    Between the main points of leather/metal covering, such as the biceps and legs, was a dark medium, a scale-like mail.


    It covered any otherwise exposed areas with a more flexible material, giving his muscles more space for tension.


    Above this specimen knight''s head was an indicator, [Garlneth Toofargariyan (22)].


    -Garlneth Toofargariyan: Its hand raised into a wave, stiffening with the increased range of motion. "Looky, looky. If it isn''t the scarcest man on this side of the Stream!"


    The sight of only a moving suit of armor gave him an uncanny feeling, even though he knew definitively that this was a person talking.


    A lack of expression on the visored barbuta helmet was the main reason for this.


    -Leek: "Yeah, could say the same for you... Sir, Garlneth." This was said with a straight face but placed heavy emphasis on its undertone of sarcasm.

 Ruin

    -Garlneth Toofargariyan: "Garlneth? Who the hell is... oh." As the set of armor spoke its movements mimicked the tone of its voice. "My character''s name, that''s what you were talking about. But, how did you know that?"


    The two friends both walked next to one another, slowly traveling the streets while cracking jokes and exchanging personal conversation.


    Despite having no visible expression Gray''s apparent giddiness resulted in him having full control over where the conversation went.


    Stories of his grandeur, aspects of the game he saw to be underrated, lore of the land, and more.


    During this Leek decided to change the display name of his friend. The thoughtless name was funny in thought, but the dreaded chance he may have to type it eclipsed this manifold.


    -ALTgray: "Wait, how did I not think of this earlier? You can power through the story missions! I might just make another Smurf account, just to watch the slaughter..." Even though the slits of his helm hid his eyes, Leek could feel the devious squint and intent Gray emanated.


    -Leek: His friend''s words threw him off a bit. "No. I don''t feel like dealing with another one of your accounts." Juggling multiple versions of the same person would be a headache.


    -ALTgray: The suit''s arms went up as if to say whatever. "Yeah yeah, anyways, what is your build cause I''ve never seen someone dual-wielding a gauntlet and glaive." He lowered his voice a little, trying to let his friend down softly. "And, to be frank, that''s a horrible idea."


    This question did not come about without warrant, as he had already taken a look at Leek''s profile but was faced with an empty screen. The two were friends, and so Leek must have placed his detailed information hidden, as some do.


    The only thing he could see of Leek''s was the items he had currently equipped; his gauntlets, clothing, and glaive.


    And with the way FAO constructs its gameplay, you''d need a feat to allow the use of the two independent weapons, including class-specific feats.


    -Leek: No doubt he knew this would come up eventually. "Funny thing about that. My character is coded for FAo, not FAO. I can just play like I would there."


    *FAo- Fallen Arc Original/Fallen Arc | FAO- Fallen Arc 2: Online*


    Gray took Leek at his word. He already knew how "Leek" came about, being an accidental port from FAo; it still being bound by the game''s rules wasn''t too hard to wrap the mind around.


    Something that gave Gray an even larger incentive was the lack of limit testing his friend had done. This meant everything as game-breaking bugs, and exploits could easily become profitable to the two.


    -ALTgray: "Makes sense, I just can''t wait to figure out exactly what you''re able to get away with!" Again intent seeped from his face covering, again causing Leek distaste. "Anyways, it''s time for us to do some leveling!"


    Gray brought himself to this town for his good friend, but before even that he wanted to play this game.


    What came to mind was the very first missions a player is required to complete. FAO asks when starting a new character, for a backstory, the look and physical structure, and an idea of your intended playstyle.


    From there you would be given starting missions, bringing you from inexperienced to level (8), potentially (10) when factoring intended class.


    Taking the idea of this into account Gray found it likely that Leek would be capable of doing these, but at his current level.


    People have thought of doing this before now, refusing the starting missions to instead level themselves, then come back and squash any task they were given.


    The integral issue with this was the unintended soft-locking of one''s character. Starter class items were issued only after doing/as you''re doing the starting quests.


    Buying them from a merchant/seller wasn''t possible as there was no in-game demand, and trading to get one wasn''t allowed between anyone.


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    -ALTgray: "Let''s party up." As he said this he sent a party invite to Leek, which he accepted.


    *Ding* You Have Partied With [Garlneth Toofargariyan (22)], Enjoy!


    -Leek: "You can play through those with me?" With his knowledge of other games, he''d assumed Gray would have needed to wait for him to complete them.


    -ALTgray: "Yes I can, though I would have preferred you power leveling me past them!" His hand came into vision, in the shape of a thumbs-up.


    The discussed missions were a pseudo-prologue. It''s set in the time during/just after the wars set against the ''country'' Belvath. Depending on the player''s choice what you''ll be doing and when will vary.


    To accept these leek went into his quest/mission organizer, entering the "main" section, and choosing an obscure choice called "Manifest History."


    -Leek: "Do I need to go to a start city?" This was asked to his more experienced peer.


    -ALTgray: "What, no you don''t, just wait a little. It''ll take us to the correct server automatically..."


    Both waited another moment, and just as nothing happened they were pulled from where they stood. If viewed from an outside perspective they appeared to have logged out.


    ""


    "YO! DID Y''ALL SEE THE NEW UPDATE COMING?!?!"


    These words were sent to a message board, sorted between newer ones that did not notice its contents.


    "NO. F-ING. WAY", "Bruh. ths a joke or smthin?"


    "fake. I know cause the the devs would post abt it first. a friend of mine is a developer if yiu want to ask him."


    "ill wait until someone checks the link first."


    "You lieing you dont know a dev forreal......"


    Every response flooded in after the other, the diversity of usernames was fairly large. A couple of fast typers, as to fit themselves in multiple times before being pushed away, were actively fighting for attention.


    "!!!dID YoU gUYs SeE thE NeW UpdaTE!!!!!! You sound stupid, they mentiond last time that this was all we were going to get until the new year. You got baited, like a dumbass!! JAJAJAJAJJAJA"


    "Even if there is... WHO CARES//// <<<<<FAo"


    Not too long thereafter a consensus was reached in the message board.


    Developers of FAO had decided to announce a new update without any teasers. Something few expected, and the ones who did assumed so without any sane thought.


    They were implementing this some time soon, likely within the next week or so.


    "It''s about time they came out with an update for the NPC dynamic/adaptive behavior. The other games, such as SA:ERO have done this straight out the gate. TBH they just straching the bottom of the barrel right now, but ya''ll gonna glaze anyways!"


    *SA:ERO- Sunken Abyss: Eternal Realm Online*


    "This finna make FAO the GOATTT of VRMMORPG''S."


    "They''re also bringinging the mounted lance class, more lower level mounts, sub/dual classing, new endgame dungeons, minor story expansion, player-owrned (collegium owned) halls within cities that can be bid on."


    "Bro, that not even all. the developers are going crazy wth thisd drop...ETCC..!@#$"


    "sounds pay-to-win. i hold my opinions until they can prve theyyre capable of doing this stuff right. cuz i only buy cosmetics no game is worthe spending money on to win but thats just me,. :P"


    More people came online, reacting and contributing to the hectic conversations. But all that mattered was when these changes would come to affect them, and their enjoyment of the game.


    ""


    ''A Country Of Untold Strength, Consuming Any Border They Touched. An Army Disregarding Night Or Day, Rain Or Hail, Pain Or Pleasure; Monsters Conquering Man.''


    ''Belvath, The Land Of The Decrepit And Damned. A Snuffed Light Once Holding The Future Of The World In Its Hands.''


    ''Unclaimed Lands Forsaken By Every Body Of Government, As Their Assimilation Would Be A Geopolitical Headache, Bringing Forth The Petty Outbreak Of War.''


    ''Brought Together, Silent As They Moved, The Demi-Humans And Monster Established Cities, Villages, Domestic Trade, Laws, And A Unified Consciousness.''


    ''This New Power Showed Its Strength For The World To Respect. The World, In Their Ignorance, Quickly Took To Fear Or Retaliation. Few Acknowledged This Nation, And Thus Many Super-Powers Followed Their "Divine Right" To Claim Hold Of Land Under Belvirian Control.''


    ''And, With Their Hand Now Bitten, The Country Was Forced To Act. It Was All A Slaughter, Nearly Every Battle Lead To Blood Fed Soil, Never Soaked With That Of Innocence; There Was No Such Thing As Innocent.''


    ''Now I Ask You, To Learn Of Your Contribution To An Effort, To Whom Do You Pledge?''


    *Bing* [Choose Your Race/Subrace!]


    Despite the prompt indicating some needed choice, there was nothing to select. To only option being to "Continue" past the section.


    *Bing* [Select Your Desired Class]


    Again he could only "Continue" without thought.


    *Bing* [What Is Your Type Of Playstyle!]


    Again...


    *Bing* [Words Words Words Words!]


    None of it mattered, he had no decisions to make so he sat and skipped through as quickly as he could.


    ''I See. The War Was Not Of Your Taste, Needing Others To Fall To Build A Valid Foundation Was Too Much.''


    ''Rather Than Aid Any Side, Even When Provoked, You Fled From It All. Keeping Your Head Down Until The End Of The Multinational Skirmishes.''


    ''You Made Sure To Give As Much To Prop Up The Economy Instead.''


    ''During This, You Were Victim To The Day Of GreySnow. The Sudden Conversion Of Belvath To An Anarchical Society.''


    ''Reaching Hands Came To Swipe At What Was Yours, Running With What Was Yours, And Baselessly Persecuting Your People.''


    ''Preventable Death, Committed At The Hands Of The Aggressors In Retributions For THEIR Actions.''


    ''Their Raids, Pillages, And Desecration In Name Of Uselessly Deified Sapiens, At The Guidance Of Self Indulgent And Formless God''s.''


    *Ding* [+Story Mission: <input>]


    ''In Name Of The Wishful, Those Who Sit In Wait Of Liberation, Repair The Arc Of The New World |Travel To The Stripped Land Of Belvath|''


    ""


    "What?..."

 Us

    [+Story Mission: <input>]


    ''In Name Of The Wishful, Those Who Sit In Wait Of Liberation, Repair The Arc Of The New World |Travel To The Stripped Land Of Belvath|


    Just what exactly does it mean? The words were not confusing, but the implications, especially when considering context, led to repeated mental dead-ends.


    "Dude... I think we should sell your account! I don''t mean to sound like a drag. But with your character, and this (glitched?) Story Mission. It could easily fetch over $60,000."


    "Again, No." Leek was rigid in his decision, the prospect of money did nothing to sway his choice. "You invite me to play, I do it, and you immediately tell me to restart?"


    He did not take kindly to people trying to persuade him. It showed a lack of care for his ability to think critically.


    If someone cared, they would refuse to be persistent. Feeling content with his answer at face value knowing he took the effort to think it through.


    "I get it. Its not some crazy amount. But there are few accounts that are even considered worth the transaction fees." His words were not stern as they came out, but strong enough to give the feeling of a lecturing parent. "Even I wouldn''t think too hard about it."


    His persuasion changed to aim at the rationale of the brain. Taking away the time investment, and trying to look at what it was he had, objectively.


    He knew how sacred Gray holds his accounts. And how adverse he is to the idea of giving his progress to someone not deserving of it.


    Their conversation was being held over video call.


    Hakeem in his pitch back room. Gray, though on the other side, did not grace the call with his person, as an avatar took his place on the monitor.


    Around the time Leek had been given the unusual quest FAO had crashed. Gray had not been spared this fate either.


    Rather than jump back into the game they decided to chit-chat for a while, trying to not overbear their Full Stream Headsets.


    Though its more likely Gray was in wait for Hakeem. His Headset was of a nearly obsolete model, while Gray''s had been of the newest.


    It may have been second-hand, but regardless it went for a couple pretty pennies.


    He has greatly invested in his setup to play the modern Full Stream games at highest quality possible, and future proofing through processing speed/stability. His free time is consistently consumed by gaming, dishing a little more for the best he can get is a no brainer.


    "... Well. You made up your mind." The profile picture lit up with each of his words. "Just do a system check. And let''s get BACK TO IT!"


    Something to note about Gray was his typical lack of enthusiasm, which is amplified by lack of interest on his part. Whenever something shifts to the topic of games, specifically VR games, he becomes a ball of drive.


    Hakeem, thinking ahead, had already gone about fiddling with his other monitor to prepare his computer and headset. "Ahead of you, cuz I''m too fast!" He put his arms out to flex his biceps to the camera.


    There wasn''t much in the way of muscle. But, if taken with the benefit of the doubt, you could differentiate between when he is and is not trying to bulge his arms.


    *Ding*


    "Welcome Back To The Vast World Of Fallen Arc: Online. We Were Awaiting Your Return!"


    Jumping back into the game was routine. The welcome message felt fairly more personal than he''d assume normal. Thankfully it didn''t dip into an overreaching corporations attempt at informality.


    ""


    For all the eye could see was a sea of colorful waves, contorting in shape with every passing moment.


    If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    Scorched remains of a once great greensward set ablaze, flickering between a deep orange and burning white. The raising ash shorted any sight from beyond the horizon, and many sights in its foreground.


    Gazing down below, and searching through the strain of the eye, many bodies scrambled to do something about the loss.


    Buckets of water came to douse the aging crops.


    In the places where small kindles remained, the less abled took to suffocating anything left with either dirt or sand; stirring it in as to not cause another unwarranted flare up.


    Amongst this even a familiar face came to engage in the effort.


    A woman in a white blouse.


    Her grey pantsuit which had covered her torso was now thrown to the ground, trampled by the aggregate and frantic people.


    This woman was apart of the ground trying to rid the kindles, moving swiftly to remain efficient in the snuff effort.


    -???: A man draped in red cloth, of which had the length of an overcoat, black canvas trousers, and a hilted saber stood a distance away. "I did not wish to part with you. So may my acts put you to rest, and anything anew be free of Theseus'' dilemma." His expression matched the dreary scene in front of him.


    Wasting no more time to converse with himself, the man turned his back to the still raging blaze.


    Now facing the yet setting Sun he disappeared into its light, aided by the unbearable light from the fire.


    To anyone watching the man knew that, even with lack of context, his face would never again return. Some conviction had been seeded within his mind, leading him word first into his intentions.


    Though his departure was definitely premature; it was not possible for the village to charge him for his crimes or try to recoup the damages.


    "Farewell..."


    Those words came from his mouth and dissipated just as quickly, reaching the ears of none.


    ""


    -???: "Hey, what are we doing here?"


    -Hakeem: "Wha- Who the hell are you!?"


    Hakeem and Gray had put themselves back into the game of FAO, disconnecting from their bodies as they projected their consciousness elsewhere, plugging into the virtual hub that is their Full Stream Headsets.


    Somewhere down the rabbit hole Hakeem got stopped.


    If he had to inquire it would be somewhere between the game''s start up screen, and his ''consciousness'' being transported to it.


    -???: "I''m Leek and you''re Hakeem. Now that we''re acquainted I think we should get back..."


    The disembodied voice was less than that of a stranger. It felt close to him, even with it coming from someone else''s mouth.


    He was thinking to himself in a perspective that he was unfamiliar with, that''s how he felt about it.


    -Hakeem: "Leek? What does that even mean, ''Leek'' is just a game persona."


    It was clear to him that exposure to the old, prototype like, headset must have caused him to develop some mental illness.


    Or at the least, left his brain in a damaged state.


    -Leek?: "No. You say that, but you''re the one who shouldn''t be here." No hostility was coming from ''his'' words, it was only fact he spoke in. "We should never have met, yet you still came about. Pushing me out of the way, to take on my life as some entertainment."


    Hakeem started to get lost in the conversation. The knowledge that he had some early onset mental deterioration started to brake him.


    The only thing which would solidify the hypothesis was the reaction, and words, of anyone separate from himself... even then. Could he trust his mind to tell him the truth when it comes to everyone else''s words or intention?


    -Hakeem: He continued. "I get it now, I''m insane..." This was more rhetorical, he couldn''t get a accurate answer from himself.


    To get better understanding of his current experience, imagine an out-of-body experience. The type where once you''re done with you''d likely forget almost immediately, as you had nothing to actually tie the experience to it would just fade; a thought you were on the verge of having, but never actually arriving to it.


    -Leek?: "Hmm, he still doesn''t remember?" This thought was said in more of a whisper, mimicking the idea of thinking. "I''ll figure something out, fifth times the charm I guess."


    -Hakeem: "Fifth? This keeps happening..." His back slid down the melodramatic wall in his head; metaphorically speaking.


    -Leek?: "Yeah, it does... but just get up if you don''t want to be here." His silence was in clear replacement of a deep sigh. Something about those words reminded him of his state of being.


    Like suffering in a nightmare, manipulating situations in your mind to breed pain, only to stop it all with the realization that it''s all not real.


    Then, he was gone again.


    -Leek?: He took a deep breath, then huffed a bit. "And again, I''m left kicking rocks..."


    ""


    -ALTgray: "You should get a better Net Cable. Your character lagged in a bit."


    In his face was the suited knight he had the chance to get to know, before both of their games crashed.


    -Leek: "Did I? Maybe I should get a new one, I''m using the same that came with the headset." Leek knew that his cable had to be a while past its recommended replacement date.


    This idea also resonated with him. Gray was not the type to be okay with optional glitching, or lag. It would do nothing but crush his experience when anything other than skill comes into his defeat.


    He would not be verbal with his disdain, but it could, and will, be felt. Especially when he had pointed out my problem beforehand.


    -ALTgray: "I agree. But now, we''re going to complete a nearby instance dungeon. If you need to prepare, do it now. Or bring ring backup equipment." He was referencing the horrible build choice Leek had.


    A glaive, and a gauntlet. It was frankly retarded to even assume such a thing was better than a wooden sword.


    -Leek: In response he said. "Nah. I''m good with what I got."


    They both then set off. Collecting the necessary permit to be given access to the nearby dungeon.

 Heading Down

    "8 o''clock."


    A shot then erupted from deeper in the dimly lit cavern. It came across Leek''s face, nearly brushing his left ear as it passed.


    Its dark red hue embedded itself into the creature''s fur, burning it enough to brand the fur covering its body.


    The monster yelped at the sharp pain. Its advance stopped at attention, dying as a result of the attack.


    -ALTgray: "Are you not being even a bit serious? Watch your mini-map if you can''t bother." Again, he grew agitated at Leek and his lackluster attempt to remain present and alert.


    -Leek: His head, now turned back to face Gray again. "Don''t blame me, I''m new to this game still. You''re just a smurf, so don''t get judgy!" Even with the critical feedback facing him, he knew that there was no actual malice.


    Gray has a competitive mindset, so even when trying to have fun, it bleeds into his actions and words.


    The two decided to complete the instance dungeon Gray had mentioned before.


    It was a musty cavern that had been a section of mountain, which Faerilm is carved into, intended to extend the city. Rather, the project had been abandoned as result of early settlers being incapable of dispatching the creatures that live within.


    They weren''t anything overwhelming, instead it was the numbers they had. They were like the horde of some monster lord.


    In addition to the horrible conditions in the cavern, it was lacking lighting or acceptable oxygen levels. This would be detrimental in the needed sustain expected to cut down the rapidly reproducing monster population.


    With the current capabilities of hunters, and even miners, it would not be too much to assume the project could resume. But at this time city officials seem to have forgotten about its initial use case.


    Choosing not to cover it up as a simple place for leveling nearby guildsmen, and aiding in needed recreational usage.


    -ALTgray: "We''re going deeper. Watch for the sneak attacks. They WILL target you specifically."


    -Leek: With his hand at salute Leek spouted, "Aye Aye CAPTAIN!" He forced a faux grin, showing as much sarcasm as the games facial models would allow.


    Gray did not look back to see this, he moved deeper into the dungeon as he said earlier. With Gray at the helm of this expedition Leek did not have the initiative he would otherwise try and muster.


    A veteran would likely keep him safe the whole way through, breezing past hurdles. As its expected of him to have grinded sufficiently here before, when his original play-through needed to do so.


    His character had, in its hands, a sword. Its shape was standard, a blade, with a symmetrical cross-guard, attached to a hilt. It was no different to the templates given in fantasy settings, when deciding on weapons to design.


    Something peculiar about this had been a dark liquid pooling in the fuller; of which had began at the hilt, and extended into about thirty percent of the blade. It was not the most practical construction, but did have a slight aesthetic appeal.


    ___


    Status Page: Leek (16)


    [ Skill Points: 4 ]


    HP 18 (+2)


    SPD 8 (+2)


    VIT 9 (+0)


    TEQ 3 (+3)


    EVN 5 (+4)


    SSK 2


    [ LUCK: 7 ](+5)


    Inventory: (1)Elixir: Vitality/Basic, Coin Pouch: 97, (6)Angora Tails: Rotten, (7)Angora Tails: Fresh, (1)Drawstring Bag: Basic, (9)Shuriken, (16)Kunai, Gauntlet Pair(Pristine), (6)Potion: Speed/Normal, (3)Elixir: Health/Normal, (3)Elixir: Mana/Higher, (4)Potion: Health/Higher, (6)Scroll: Transcribe/Superior, Glaive(Pristine), Clothing (Pristine), Shoes (Pristine),(+47)Toad Legs: Common/Material, (+7)Toad Tongue: Common/Material, (+12)Scales: Common/Material, (+3)Oral Glands: Uncommon/Venomous


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


    ___


    Coldening Feeling: When Active The User Gains Increased Perception To Nearby Characters/Mobs | Paranoia (1)Stacks With Each Character/Mob In Vicinity While Active, Increasing Hyper-Fixation. Decreases Vitality With Every (2)Stack.


    Cut Throat: Increases The Chances To Land Critical Hits For As Long As Bloodlust (3)Stacks Have Been Placed On The User | Reduces Accuracy And Evasion, The User Becomes Frenzied.


    ___


    As they went down Leek took another look at his inventory. It was getting to the point where he felt it was overcrowded, though for an MMORPG his current state of items was nowhere near overzealous.


    The materials he had picked up for his last quest were still on his person. He had not taken the time to turn them in for his compensation, planning to do so some time after his current excursion.


    -Leek: "I have four skill points." From the last time he checked he gained another level. "Maybe I could go with a little more vitality." This thought came from his lack of investment in the category, not from any necessity.


    He did ponder a tad longer, but did not arrive to a satiating conclusion. So he refrained form putting any points into it. And with the spare time he went over, again, the items in his inventory; kept mental note of their potential utility.


    Bringing him back to the task at hand was a small twitch.


    Somewhere in the dark Leek could feel a threat lurking.


    It was to his left. How far exactly, he did not know. Yet it mattered naught, he now had the chance to prepare a counter offense.


    ...


    ...


    ...


    -Leek: Anti-climactic? "I''d say so"


    His arms grew heavy in wait. It was the mental aspect causing this, as the game did not have such a minor system pertaining to-


    "Grrggghrrraaahhh..."


    Trying to blitz his immediate position was a small kobold.


    Its war-cry gave even greater pretense to its attack. A sword in its hands, both clasped tightly as to choke the hilt.


    Speed was not its strong suit, as by the time Leek could recognize what was going on it was still a few steps away.


    His glaive, flaunted on his left hand followed his lead.


    Together they closed the gap. Coming down well above the creatures head, intending fully to crack its skull under the force of their partnered attack.


    The [Kobold Scout (9)] attempted to straight parry the force coming at it. It pulled its sword into a horizontal position, the flat side facing the incoming blow.


    With no actual resistance the sword shattered, some pieces having even cut up the face of the kobold.


    The [Kobold Scout (9)]''s health flatlined.


    [(+1)Cloth: Tattered] was the left in the place of the quasi-sentient beast.


    Gray had looked over his shoulder, witnessing the aftermath of his friends committed execution


    *Wooosh*


    -Leek: "Ughrrghh." He jerked back.


    An arrow found its way past his reflex. It lodged into his upper right shoulder, poking out to taunt him in his carelessness.


    -ALTgray: His head was still pointed towards the hardheaded friend of his. "wHaT dId I sAy?" Letting down his uptight perspective, to exchange it for sarcasm, he sat nicely atop his hill of conceit. "Don''t listen to me; you get SHOT!!!;/?>>,"


    Leek rolled his eyes into the back of his head.


    Using his right hand, which was covered thoroughly by his gauntlet, he plucked the arrowhead from his body. And without a second thought, crushed it into a fine dust.


    The material it was made of had likely been scavanged from around in the cave system. With no access to outside developments, such as smithing or crafting, they were equipped with crude weaponry.


    Searching for the cause for his discomfort, Leek came about a shiver hidden behind a shadowed crevice. Clearly the ambush ''speacialist'' realized its attacks were futile, and thus, rightfuly so, decided to hide.


    He stepped forward, getting a better angle on the small life at his deadly discretion. When he placed proper sight on the being, [Kobold Archer (10)], it tried to jump at his face.


    Anticipating some last ditch effort Leek grabbed the critter from out of the air. His iron-clad right hand clenched firmly on the [Kobold Archer (10)]''s throat.


    Its face contorted as its airway restricted.


    -Leek: He commented on the model of the kobold. "A dog... mixed with a physically retarded wyvern?" They were less like goblins, and closer to a bastardization of mythical and canine species.


    It did squirm, and slash violently. Leek, though, decided to not react to its antics. Not wanting to give it any false sense of hope.


    Slowly its movements became more encumbered. The light in its eyes which did not burn too brightly to begin with was left at a mere kindling.


    *Cchraghhtt*


    Its body went limp, the health above its head fell to zero, and its spine was fundamentally severed from its body. Released from Leek''s deadly hold, it did not have the chance to hit the ground.


    In its stead was an item drop; [(+3)Arrows: Crude/Common]


    Leek and Gray, the demons of the shallow cavern, descended further.


    ""


    *Hgmmhhhhh*


    A deep grumble echoed along the unfurnished walls. Bouncing around, and embellishing the unnerving presence of the beast producing it.


    Footsteps pattering along started not too long after.


    Quickly they moved around the terrain of the cavern, not wasting more than a step. Escaping from whatever gave them the motive to head out as one unit.

 Choices

    The Twin Demons of the Shallow Cavern went about slaughtering any low-level mobs they encountered.


    They mostly ignored their actions in the pre-drop section of the cave system and increasingly paid attention as they went on. Needing only one swing to end a life had a great sense of superiority.


    It became boring, the same as squashing defenseless ants.


    At this point the two still had all, but one of their health points. None of their valuable materials were expensed on the worthless exp dumps.


    Within the dungeon were ores sticking out of the walls, hanging from the roof like stalactites but without the sharp tips or abundance.


    If it were not for them entering it as an instance dungeon it would be brought to question, why there were no bodies attempting to capitalize on the open and abundance of resources?


    The dark was a minor factor that could feed into that idea, but only as a temporary though. You couldn''t see more than about thirty feet in front of you, but a light source was not a prerequisite. If you didn''t progress with haste you would not see much in change, with or without light.


    Progression was congruent with sections of the system that would have a sudden drop, wrapping around a bottomless pit then leading back into the confining walls; monsters following suit with their strength/level.


    During their dissent a small variation in monster would show their heads.


    [Kobold]''s, [Crept Crawler]''s, [Kobold Tamer]''s, [Large Wolf Spider]''s, [Lost Goblin]''s, and other types of enemies. To contrast this were mobs who are programmed in a neutral/friendly manner, and didn''t have a necessity to be eliminated; [Drip Drinker]''s, [Overgrown Nepenthes], etc.


    During their travel the two had reached a fork in the cave system.


    With knowledge on how the game goes about small choices such as these, Gray doubted his choice would change the outcome of where they were headed, if not by a couple minute detour.


    - Leek: "I say left." He raised his hand, just as a classroom teacher would require. Gray had eyes eyes forward, so he did not see this self satisfying action.


    No response was given. And with little hesitation Gray took the path Leek had suggested, heading into the increasingly small passageway forth.


    And in no time they found themselves engaged in combat with the dark''s denizens.


    ...


    -ALTgray: "If you''re going to come at me. Make it worth my while!" Driving cleanly into the heart, Gray twisted his sword while staring into the eyes of his dying foe, [Korobold Brute (14)].


    An aggressive and defense-heavy variation of kobold.


    Smash, hit, crush. That''s the mantra behind the spaghetti code used to program their actions as their in-game intelligence is that of a mount.


    Even when taking this into account Gray, who had been bluntly ignored by the beast in favor for Leek, took it out in a relative amount of time.


    Utilizing its own attack patterns to easily evade, and counter without trouble.


    But with the appearance of a level fourteen Korobold he knew they were reaching the point where death could be an actual result if ignorance drastically came into play.


    Gray, who sword sat in the [Korobold Brute (14)]''s chest for longer than needed showed some fixation in its death, the strongest one in this dungeon yet.


    His eyes grew hungrier, being pulled even further into depraved gluttony.


    Leek who fought off the regular kobold back-ups did not engage in the bout. He watched the skillful Gray put his arrogance to actions.


    Gray took an easy win. This was a skillful score, not indicative of the two''s objective strength in comparison to level.


    In his peripheral vision was an unusual source of light... it was heading to him. Burning brightly. So Leek, ambitiously, sprinted from attention and into a leap. Past Gray, into the air as he went to intercept the ball.


    Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.


    A fireball spell. Casted by a [Kobold Magister (16)] trying to catch Gray off-guard.


    With his right hand, Leek attempted to catch the flame and prevent it from harming his other, who now collected the spoil of his kill.


    His fingers caught the wisps of the fire, leading to a premature detonation.


    The fireball spell can be given small preset properties that give it more utility in a fight. This subtle personality to spells can also apply outside of combat where it would simply be useful.


    In this case it was given on-hit detonation.


    Exploding into a blinding inferno, knocking him back; burning for a bit of damage.


    (6)HP of his eighteen was taken as result. The action was fairly ignorant, as he had assumed the fireball would not stand a chance against his gauntlet.


    -Leek: "Ughh." He laid on his back, having landed rough enough to cause the wind in his lungs escape him.


    Before gathering himself properly Leek jumped to his feet. If he spent too much time on the ground he was an open source for experience.


    The kobold who had fired the shot was in the act of preparing another magic spell.


    White-ashen marks, tattooed along its body, began to glow. It was faint.


    This kobold variant was physically the same as a scout, unlike them though it had actual design to its clothing. It was easily the sink for passable cloth down here, having taken it from the hands of its brethren.


    To give a decent example would be that of a shaman. It had pieces of skulls attached to its weapon belt, with random pieces of handing accessories.


    A filthy rag draped across its shoulders.


    And in its hand a rough mimicry of a wand. Formed from dozens of broken pieces of wood clumped together, an orb stuck to the top having already produced cracks running its entire body.


    Leek, who was now on his feet sprinted at the little gremlin. During this time he went ahead with consuming one of his [(4)Potion: Health/Higher]''s.


    It brought him straight back to full health.


    He didn''t have the capacity to consume more health regeneration. In the instance he did, there would be in excess of thirty-five to forty-three additional healing done by the potion.


    His glaive was not in his hand this time, as he did not retrieve it after his fall. Sprinting quick enough to reduce the distance by a third.


    The [Kobold Magister (16)] stood its ground. Rather than run it placed the makeshift staff into the ground slightly behind it.


    Wasting no time it finished the spell it had been conjuring. Its tattoos began to pierce the dimly lit cavern around them.


    Its hands rose to its mouth, making some intelligible signs with them... and it screamed.


    "GGRUUUAAGHHHHTT-AA"


    In a split second light suddenly came into being. Unveiling everything once blanketed by the dark.


    Dozens of faces, cloaked no more. It was another ambush, set into motion by the Kobold species.


    Behind the [Kobold Magister (16)] was upwards of sixteen other kobolds.


    Along the walls crawled groups of spiders, partnered with a [Kobold Tamer (19)].


    Three more mutant [Korobold Brute (14)]''s were scattered around. In total they surrounded Gray and Leek''s positions.


    The light was blinding, but not being used defensively. The [Kobold Magister (16)] let loose this sunlight from itself, not to act like a flash-bang, but to show the sheer disparaging situation its prey were in.


    "AA...AGHTT"


    The [Kobold Magister (16)], whose hands had gone up to signify both its achievement and dominance, began to shake violently.


    A shot, straight through the throat.


    Blood dripped from its mouth, ears, nose, and eyes as it convulsed, buckling under its own weight. Its head whipped backward, cracking over the ground as it continued to seize.


    Although it was an NPC out to ensure his death, Leek had an uneasy feeling watching the monster in wrenching pain. They were, in design, not too far from being a lovable pet.


    Though it was soothed when the Kobold flatlined, its body despawned moments after.


    Gray''s right arm had extended into the direction of the now dead [Kobold Magister (16)]. The tips of his fingers, still covered in a firm suit of armor, were now dipped in a color of black with a hint of red.


    His blade drank from the [Korobold Brute (14)], giving him more access to his attribute magic, one-shotting the level sixteen mob.


    This substance seemed to reach out in anticipation. It was a bit unnerving.


    The murky liquid moved as if it had a separate consciousness from Gray. Displaying its own wants and needs, trying to force him to act as it wished.


    Surprisingly the magic used to hold the light in place had not gone with its caster. So under the light of the, respectively dead, [Kobold Magister (16)] its companions began their assault.


    A stutter, caused by their adjustment to the brightness of the previously dim space, had given time for all of this, everything after/during the throat kill, to occur.


    ___


    Status Page: Leek (16)


    [ Skill Points: 4 ]


    HP 18 (+2)


    SPD 8 (+2)


    VIT 9 (+0)


    TEQ 3 (+3)


    EVN 5 (+4)


    SSK 2


    [ LUCK: 7 ](+5)


    Inventory: (1)Elixir: Vitality/Basic, Coin Pouch: 97, (6)Angora Tails: Rotten, (7)Angora Tails: Fresh, (1)Drawstring Bag: Basic, (9)Shuriken, (16)Kunai, Gauntlet Pair(Pristine), (6)Potion: Speed/Normal, (3)Elixir: Health/Normal, (3)Elixir: Mana/Higher, (3)Potion: Health/Higher, (6)Scroll: Transcribe/Superior, Glaive(Pristine), Clothing (Pristine), Shoes (Pristine),(+47)Toad Legs: Common/Material, (+7)Toad Tongue: Common/Material, (+12)Scales: Common/Material, (+3)Oral Glands: Uncommon/Venomous


    ___


    Coldening Feeling: When Active The User Gains Increased Perception To Nearby Characters/Mobs | Paranoia (1)Stacks With Each Character/Mob In Vicinity While Active, Increasing Hyper-Fixation. Decreases Vitality With Every (2)Stack.


    Cut Throat: Increases The Chances To Land Critical Hits For As Long As Bloodlust (3)Stacks Have Been Placed On The User | Reduces Accuracy And Evasion, The User Becomes Frenzied.


    ___

 The Man

    -ALTgray: "HAKEEM- ACTIVATE YOUR CUTTHROAT SKILL!" Gray shouted this out at the top of his lungs.


    Even though the situation accounted for the need for concise and clear instructions, Leek found it unnecessary to do so by shouting so overtly.


    -Leek: "Got it. But next time call me by my game name please, I like to roleplay before getting frisky!" He winked at the homoerotic comment, dropping any sincerity in his message.


    He also pointed out that, without any intervention, his skill would activate on its own.


    It had already done so when the light spell was cast. It was revealing the monsters, to be specific as their bloodlust had been otherwise hidden.


    -ALTgray: "Now. Do as much damage as you can. I killed the [Kobold Magister (16)] during its Light cast. Its duration will be longer, giving us an advantage as they''re all skilled in the dark!" As these commands came from his mouth Gray dawned his sword.


    Leek, listening to his leader''s words went straight for those behind the now-dead [Kobold Magister (16)]. His hands came at an angle as if winding up an attack with his still grounded glaive.


    Realizing the idiocy, two [Kobold Fighter (18)]''s met his bluff. The two broke off into a pre-flank position while a [Lost Goblin (14)] took the frontend, facing Leek directly.


    With the difference in level it was likely the Goblin had been taken as captive. Forced to engage in suicidal tactics that benefit the Kobold''s, showing no regard for their distant cousin.


    Its hand trembled as a rusted arming sword, that which is typically associated with an undead knight, came to threaten its attacker; whom had gotten close enough for the [Lost Goblin (14)] to flinch.


    A squint in anticipation left everything a blur.


    Leek, during his slash, had equipped his Glaive back into his hand. Taking a broadside stance, and sweeping horizontally across the three attackers.


    Cutting both of the [Kobold Fighter (18)]''s he did a sum of fourteen damage. The Fighter to his right having a remaining twenty-nine HP, out of its original thirty-four; the other having seventeen, of it original twenty-six.


    The damage he did was somewhat inline with what he''s been doing since he started the game, with a minor bump... must be the class, mixed with the ad hoc armor they were clad in.


    Belief was the his damage should not have been so low, and despite doing a decent chunk in that go, the Fighter''s did not flinch at him. Animalistic instincts kept them fixated on the thought of gorging their gullets with his insides.


    Airborne, their movements were restrictive as different sections of their stitched together protection rejected one another at certain joints.


    To his right was one wielding a double sided axe; a piece of sturdy wood, attached through the middle of the head to form its handle.


    It was now positioned overhead, of the [Kobold Fighter (18)], and coming down at its enemy''s body.


    Leek instinctually grabbed it by the belly. This did quickly stop the monster, but the other Kobold took to his opening. Its club, spiked with random pieces of sharp metal came from his upper thigh.


    Hurriedly Leek launched the Kobold, whose axe he held, further into the air by overpowering its grip on the handle.


    He pivoted his torso to allow his right hand to again face-check the weapon of his foe.


    "Ghhuraaah!"


    The [Kobold Fighter (18)] without hesitation let go of its wannabe mace. Dropping to the ground, to then shoot itself directly under Leek''s arm, which still held the club.


    Taking a shield it held on its back, facing it downward straight to his ribcage.Catching him between thoughts, Leek was knocked off balance.


    Realizing this he purposefully fell to the ground. As he hit the ground, Leek threw the spike club with all his might at the shield Kobold.


    Its noggin got smacked directly by it own weapon, even with the time to block, the monster decided to just go for a blank expression.


    It became slightly disoriented.


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


    Coming back down from its flight, the Kobold he had launched found itself thoroughly gutted. Leek''s glaive had been placed under it, as to skewer its body.


    -Leek: Even though it was result of his actions Leek did not take it well. "Ughhh... That''s not right." was his reaction. It was enough damage to defeat it, a tad overkill for how much he is concerned.


    Engaging while his opponent was still in its stupor Leek took his glaive and drove it into the still shield holding [Kobold Fighter (18)]. The one on his glaive had faded into pixels, so his blade had been clean when he did so.


    ""


    Gray, watching his friend act on his words followed in pursuit.


    He pulled at his companion, which had been embedded in the ground where a Korobold Brute once laid, slain.


    The blade had been abnormally long, its tip split into a crescent shape. The cross guard remained symmetrical, forming into an S, curving horizontally around the sword.


    Its length was substantial but still made good for one-handed use.


    A Konda sword. Built with a fuller, running its entire length, still pooling with the blackish-red blood from the slain mobs.


    One [Korobold Brute (15)] descended on him.


    Not too far from it was approaching [Crept Crawler]''s, varying in level from thirteen to fifteen.


    Crept Crawler''s were overgrown arachnids, of some species created by the game developers. They had an abnormal walking pattern, occasionally their back legs would cross over the fronts, nearly causing them to fall over.


    If taking design progression into account, they look forcefully evolved to survive the underground terrain they inhabit.


    The [Korobold Brute (15)] was his closest enemy. Rather than take it head on he avoided it altogether.


    Swiping at him, with its cumbersome arms, Gray moved easily out of its way. His helmets eyes were set on the Crept Crawlers behind it; just as one would avoid a main boss until its minions were defeated, Gray did the same.


    Fast.


    The arachnids were not something to scoff at when it came to speed, for this reason Gray readied his empty hand, drawing at the pooling liquid in his sword to be concentrated at his fingertips.


    He formed these into a claw-like glove around them.


    A [Crept Crawler (14)] had gotten into his approximate range, jumping suddenly at his face without caution.


    Expecting this he used the blood covered hand of his to stab the monster. This embedded each finger into its abdomen, and giving enough leverage to keep it from attaching to him. And with swift action he pulled it into his thrusting sword.


    A crescent edge.


    And in one fell swoop the [Crept Crawler (14)] had been taken out. If not for his direct hold of the squirming creature it was likely for it to have taken over four hits to kill.


    When it comes to smaller mobs its typically OP to grapple with them. Critical hits are very likely in those instances, and does not waste unnecessary time dueling it out, especially when faced with swarm-type mobs.


    Gray went about employing this logic to the other Crept Crawler''s.


    Hacking them to pieces, and dismembering their appendages to gain a better advantage.


    This turned into a type of dance as he went about using his momentum to eliminate the arachnids, while simultaneously keeping the [Korobold Brute (15)] at arms length, and holding its aggro.


    At this point his actions matched that of his partner''s. They were dealing with foe''s stronger than that from the upper floors, including a more specialized set of classes/move sets, but still running laps around them in sheer output.


    To be frank it was mostly unfair.


    A professional gamer, pulling his actions from the Japanese idea of a ''NEET,'' who no-life''s every game he attempts to become competitive in; FAO.


    And his friend.


    Someone running a glitched save whose applicable capabilities seem to interact in a wholly different manner then every other player.


    ...


    "!!!"


    The ledge leading into the further parts of the cavern quickly enveloped into this deep rumbling. This stopped the duo in their tracks.


    At this point they had dealt with the majority of the weakling Kobold wave, so the cave floor was laden with their drops.


    -ALTgray: "You hear that too, right." His index finger was positioned in front of his face, telling Leek to listen closely...?


    Something was coming from the lower levels. It was not traveling by foot, as each step would have been felt as it encroached. This approaching presence was likely propelling itself to where Leek and Gray stood, skipping the areas still below them in level.


    Then, after the anticipation grew to the point of turning their stomachs, a windstorm ripped through the dungeon.


    Every large deposit of rock and unsecured sediment got sent flying backward. Shooting across Gray and Leek''s ears at an astonishing speed.


    To protect themselves, both dropped to the ground while covering their heads/faces as the winds tore through. Uprooting what felt like everything.


    The event was not too burdensome as it quickly died. Though every Kobold/mob had not been lucky enough to brace themselves.


    Their weapons, seemingly too dense to prevent their departure, had been scattered across the ground, while the owners were now out of sight as they disappeared into the dark dungeon; running for shelter wherever it was they had any.


    After it calmed again they went to stand. Their aim being to face whatever it was that caused this ''situation.'' Though, they would not mind for it to have been a natural dungeon occurrence.


    *eeEUuURRRRAAAAAA*


    A rupturing shout had been expelled.


    Gray was compelled to hit the ground, in annoyingly close timeframe to him having gotten up.


    Leek, who managed to get to a knee then force himself into a standing position felt this force also. His reaction to it was clearly less than that of Gray, who has the additional weight of his armor to take into account.


    Under this force Gray struggled to simply pull his arms from under his body.


    They were being crushed under his weight so, painstakingly, he dragged them until they were free, now laying stretched out above his head.


    Closer.


    The origin of this force inched towards them.


    Incrementally the pressure surrounding them increased. So, just as you''d feel a heart-attacks beating pulse, they felt its steps...


    Closer.


    Getting eyes on the force before the other, as Gray''s face was firmly stuck to the ground, Leek felt a palpitation when he did so.


    Two bead eyes, piercing the darkness.


    An apex predator.


    Staring.

 Rediscovered Blood

    Staring at them. No reaction to their acknowledgment of its existence.


    An Apex Predator.


    White.


    This could be seen before its slick body strutted into vision, setting the climax for its anticipated arrival.


    - [Lesser Dragon-kin]: "Verily, The Hours I Hath Languished In Slumber, And In The Vanquishing Of Pests Who, In Their Ignorance, Dare Lay Claim To That Which Rightfully Belongs To My Own Domain. With Diligence, I Have Forged This Feeble Militia Of Kobolds, Sifting The Frail From The Strong, Seeking To Reclaim The Vigor I Once Possessed Ere My Fall. Yet, Amidst This Striving, I Have Faltered In The Very Aspiration To Be Discovered, To Be Redeemed By A Kindred Soul Of My Soil, Upon This Lowly Continent... Let The Day Of Somber Snow Be Condemned!!!"


    The forceful roar from the partial dragon took Leek to one knee. It could not be resisted. His torso was bent, trying to keep his body from falling any further.


    - ALTgray: His forehead had been thoroughly stuck to the coarse ground. Raising his head, to capture another glimpse of the indomitable force, he went to tell it off. "Stop screechi-"


    -[Lesser Dragon-kin]: "SILENCE. BEAST."


    Another high pitched scream left its mouth, commanding Gray.


    In that instant his body constricted, actively pressing into the ground. Cracks formed, stemming from his forehead, that loosened the ground under him.


    This force had become overwhelming. It was not hyperbole to say he barely manage to hold onto his consciousness.


    And with this struggle he had it slip away.


    Gray''s character lost every health point it had remaining, which was at about eighty-nine percent. It went fully limp, no longer fighting the pressure it was under.


    - Leek: "Shit... he will not let me live this one down!" He whispered this to himself. He''d spent a moment contemplating the many reactions Gray might have to this situation. "At least we''re in a dungeon, his penalty won''t be much."


    Again, he is highly competitive.


    A death at the hands of an enemy he had no chance to counter, or even fight, would most definitely wreck his mental state. It would be one thing if he lost within reason, but logic had been the last thing to influence his Game-Over screen.


    - Jourmandier: "What Has Come Under You, To Have Fought Beside This Vile Being That Resulted In Our Very Subjugation? I Cannot Remember How Long Ago My Slumber Started, But Has The Climate Above Changed To Such A Degree That You See No Fault In Your Actions... Or Is It That Your Affiliation Has Shifted, A Sellout To Your Own Country!?" A pair of wings spread from behind its back, throwing an overwhelming amount of wind Leek''s way.


    The gusts pushed Leek back, disregarding his planted knee. Loose piles of rocks, dirt, debris, and even weapons, the ones dropped by the many dead monsters, flew into every direction as result of the gale.


    It became hard to breathe. Each breath got away from him, and a near vacuum like suction kept him from retrieving them.


    -2HP ... -1HP ... -4HP ... -2HP ... -2HP ...


    Damage started to stack against him.


    It was likely not a direct attack on his character, rather being a byproduct of where the gusts were employed. The debris and weapons were hitting him as they went by, doing said damage to him.


    *BING!*


    FAO''s game system caught his attention in the middle of his panic.


    Everything slowed.


    Leek, who had been faced with the four dialogue options took a look around him. His eyes were the only thing he could properly move.


    Jourmandier was equipped with a plenty of intricate animations to his model yet he stood still, in the active motion which produced the scarcity in air.


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


    A set of talking points Leek could decide between, dictating his interaction with Jourmandier, showed themselves to him. It was likely that these were the reason for his moment of separation from the games immersion.


    [Dialogue Options]


    1. "I Have Never Indulged In The Familiarity Of This Kind, I Have Thus Never Forgotten The Transgressions Done Upon Us. I Have Survived, Despite Lacking The Blood Of A Dragon-Kin, Such As Yourself, This Hast Not Represented My Ambitions!"


    2. "What! You Have Questioned My Loyalty To The Blood Shed By My, Your, And Our Fallen Brethren? Has Thou Slumber Affected The Very Ability To Problem Solve Correctly!?"


    3. "Our Blood Is All I Wish To Preserve, The Remnants From The Day Of Grey Snow Have Done Nothing But Gather Dust. Join Me, As I Aim To Rebuild Our Arc, And Bring The Light We Once Shown, To Greet The World Once More; Exposing The Dark For What It Is... A Fallacy."


    (If _SpecialQuest = 1, then set "[<input placeholder + "text"]" to TRUE)


    4. "I-I, My Actions Have Not Been Beneficial. I Have Done What I Required In Order To Sustain Day-By-Day. Our Country Had Forsaken Us On Another Continent, No Reinforcements Have Been Dispatched... I Even Question If We Stand As A Faction Any Longer!!"


    ______


    -Leek: Incapable of speaking aloud he resorted to actively saying words in his own head. "Being honest, I wouldn''t take any of these if I actually had a choice... but I don''t really have one, do I?"


    With the time he''d been given, Leek made sure his option was not one decided on brevity.


    ""


    A man sporting loose fitted clothing spoke, "Yeah, I''ve never seen this in all my time playing." His glasses, which notably had not fallen out of place were readjusted using the back of his bulbous wrist.


    With a chime he fixed his posture, sitting up as was intended use of the seat. His depression into the chair had been weighted enough to cause an earful of squeaks; ignored by him as it was normal to experience this during his infrequent routine of movement.


    A scoff came from his throat, sounding as though mucus had been lodged. "Just how did you trigger this event, because a scholar in training, such as myself, I would have stumbled on this interesting tidbit during my time running dungeons..."


    His face had been glued to a clip/video he had been sent from an acquaintance of his. It was an encounter with a mid-level floor boss that, in all sense of the idea, should not have been accessible at the stage it was encountered.


    The brightness coming from the screen blocked out his eyes, as blue reflected off of his glasses. "Jour: The Flying Serpent... you can only interact with him when undertaking a hardcore run of the Faerilm instance dungeon, and even then you need a raid party to trigger his entrance, otherwise you''re swarmed by his Kobold force in waves, until death."


    A grin, which only showed his front and canine teeth gave enough clue as to his interest in the clip.


    "I assumed that too. Was asking incase you have some president for this, or?"


    ... "No."


    ""


    After a good bit of deliberation Leek decided on what it was he wanted to represent his building character.


    Jourmandier, taking note of what he had heard, had laxed his winds enough to allow Leek to speak.


    Its facial expression had been hard to decipher.


    It was clear the words had pulled on something in its mind. Its movements halted and the extended wings did not appear as hostile as they did before; retracting back a little.


    Leek, who scavenged to grasp all the oxygen he could, had a hand on his throat. It was a freaky experience as one moment he was fine, then the next he is suffocating by a quasi-unobservable force.


    Though, when it came to pain he was not in too much. His characters actions, and expressions, would appear to contradict this but it was wholly in line with the games mechanics.


    FAO has a maximum pain thresh-hold that prevents the user from being consumed by traumatic experiences. Typically the programmed responses of characters can exaggerate what they''re actually feeling, to give a more streamlined experience.


    On the verge of death Leek chose the third option in attempt to appease the mid-game boss he inadvertently encountered. It was the most reasonable answer, as it was a call to action for the immovable titan.


    Since it had yet to actually react Leek examined Jourmandier''s design a bit more; the only thing he could muster the force to do.


    Adjacent to this was just how freaky it was. This may be slightly overstated by the perceived danger, but its eyes were not typical, and borderline scary.


    They were a single bead, lodged into the side of its head¡ªoffset, being further apart from where a human pupil would be. Just as a blind man''s were, the ''eyes'' it had were grey, and seemingly incapable of proper sight.


    A single straight line cut into its face, placed roughly where a mouth should be, no detail to it.


    And, instead of traditional horns of a dragon Jourmandier had ones that looked like a flesh colony of coral; colored in splotches of a veiny blue and pink.


    -Jourmandier: "I Am Willing To Accompany You On This Journey, My Strength May Be Of Great Help In Reordering The Systems That Now Be. But I Will Not Do So Under Current Circumstances." A glow slowly grew from its body, lighting the horns atop its head, and from just below its eyes. "You Cannot Stand In My Prescence. It Is Clear To Me That Even In My Weakened State You''re Incapable Of Dominance. You May Not Hope To Gather Rule Above Those Who Possess The Means To Trample You! Return To Me And Hold Not Your Tongue, But Might As Well... PRESENT TO ME THE FORGOTTEN TRUTH, THE MIGHT OF BELVATH!!"


    Stronger than before, Jourmandier radiated in the gentle light. Its mouth opened, wide enough to justify its dragon-kin blood, and expelled from it a breath weapon.


    A murky liquid that itself put the light from Jourmandier to shame. Greater than even that Light spell from the [Kobold Magister (16)].


    Everything could be seen.


    Hidey holes, from where the Kobolds fled into before Jourmandier''s arrival. Deposits of precious ores, hidden to the eyes, even if aided by a flame. Depths of the cavern yet explored by man.


    -2 ... -1 ...


    It was a sight to behold, true beauty.


    -6 ...


    *Ding*

 Him Again

    Leek lay motionless, comfortably upon a grass bed, staring at the sky above him.


    He had been transported outside of the dungeon. Sometime during his encounter with Jourmandier, and its breath weapon, Leek had died and been redirected here.


    It was a morning.


    The Sun was preparing to show itself and bathe everyone in the town of Faerilm, and its adjacent regions, in daylight.


    FAO''s day-night cycle was just about realistic.


    For anyone not caught up in trivial matters, taking the time to appreciate the surreal beauty of this game was not a concern.


    Instead of marveling at the technological advancements made possible by FullStream, and other proprietary VR operating systems, they use it to mindlessly escape from their bleak reality.


    Sadly this was a likely truth for the majority of players.


    The vibrant color range, countless hours of creation, and endless capabilities meant nothing if it was not actively being used to appease their dying individual perspective.


    They suffer from Stream Anoxia.


    Breathing each day, yet never inhaling what it is they need to continue with a sense of purpose. Slowly consuming less and less, while approaching death without a fight.


    Simply closing their eyes to never wake up again when it finally arrives.


    A taboo topic in todays climate.


    Though he laid casually on the ground he did not forget his friend.


    Leek had thought to contact Gray to make sure they met up again. It was likely he respawned in the town of Faerilm. So he shouldn''t have been too far away.


    Before he had the chance to send a message, Gray''s character was pinging that he was getting closer to Leek''s location. They were in-game friends and partied together, so unfiltered access to each others location was available at a moments notice.


    So, instead of leaving the spot he took a well deserved break in the grass.


    ...


    -ALTgray: "So, when do you plan on getting up? Or were you too scared and decided fighting wasn''t your forte!" He was mocking his friend for being incapable of finishing the dungeon. "The loot being lost is a bit of a pain, but tbh it wasn''t going to make much of a difference for me anyways."


    After moving his head up Leek found a dark-skinned woman standing over him.


    Her hair was curly, running down the back of the head and away from the face. The sides were cutely twirled for volume and bounce.


    The second thing of hers that caught Leek''s eyes were her mostly bare chest and hips.


    They were covered by only a thin string bra, lightly frilled for texture, and a nicely form fitting pair of boxer briefs; both being nude color.


    His eyes found themselves drawn to this second sight for a bit longer than he''d have wanted.


    But his reaction was still a tame one.


    - Leek: "Ughh... Gray" He squinted a little, trying to discern whether he was mistaken. "Why is your model a female... and not wearing anything?"


    In no more than a three seconds Leek realized his friend, who notably was not a female or feminine person, was this beauty standing inches from his face.


    - ALTgray: "Huh?..." The lady quickly looked down, to be met with a lack of armor which previously shielded her from head to toe. "OHHH!" Rectifying the mistake, Gray reequipped the gear he had on, including his generic sword in hand. "They have a smaller hit-box. And do better in competitive play..."


    -Leek: His friends answer was not too far fetched, as many gamers would corroborate this way of thinking, but there was something about his pause... "Totally."


    Both sat in awkwardness for a little. Spending this time not making eye contact between themselves.


    ...


    ..


    .


    The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    - ALTgray: "I would have gotten here faster, but there was a ton of commotion in the city. But okay, let''s get back to grinding this dungeon." Done twiddling his thumbs Gray went ahead. "Do you need any potions, I picked up some extra!" He pulled from a leather pocket on his side, revealing a bottle containing a red liquid.


    -Leek: At the site of this Leek went for one of his own. "No, I still got some. I used like one or two of my [Potion: Health/Higher]''s." His hand immediately materialized one of his, now three, healing potions.


    Comparing both of the bottles subjectively. Gray''s had a much darker hue, while Leek''s was brighter and appeared more like a sweet variation of his.


    The containers were not easily discernible, but a keen eye showed more intricate design on the brighter bottle.


    -ALTgray: He looked at the potion Leek had, needing no more than a glance to produce his reaction. "Dude, give me that. With the amount of health/armor you have, might as well throw your bids on the ground."


    Gray put his hand out. It was clear he was not just giving witty banter, but did insist on his stash of [Potion: Health/Higher]''s be turned over to him.


    -ALTgray: "I''ll trade you six of my [Potion: Health/Lower]''s for it." His hand was still out in wait. "You want more for it. Or something?"


    - Leek: He looked at the trade offer with skepticism. "Here, take them." He brought out all three of his [Potion: Health/Higher]''s, and accepted the offer from Gray.


    -ALTgray: "Thr- Um, okay." With a twinge of excitement Gray put these into his leather pouch, refusing to speak on the topic again. "Bet, let''s run this again!"


    ___


    Status Page: Leek (17)


    [ Skill Points: 5 ]


    HP 20 (+2)


    SPD 8 (+2)


    VIT 14 (+0)


    TEQ 3 (+3)


    EVN 5 (+4)


    SSK 3


    [ LUCK: 7 ](+5)


    Inventory: (1)Elixir: Vitality/Basic, Coin Pouch: 97, (6)Angora Tails: Rotten, (7)Angora Tails: Fresh, (1)Drawstring Bag: Basic, (9)Shuriken, (16)Kunai, Gauntlet Pair(Pristine), (6)Potion: Speed/Normal, (3)Elixir: Health/Normal, (3)Elixir: Mana/Higher, (6)Scroll: Transcribe/Superior, Glaive(Pristine), Clothing (Pristine), Shoes (Pristine),(+47)Toad Legs: Common/Material, (+7)Toad Tongue: Common/Material, (+12)Scales: Common/Material, (+3)Oral Glands: Uncommon/Venomous, (6)Potion: Health/Lower


    ___


    Strength Of The Weak: |Increases Morale To Subordinate, And Or Lower-Level Companions When Associated With The Abilities User | + To Select AC or HP, Increases Loyalty By (1) With Every (1/2) Difference In Level.


    Coldening Feeling:|When Active The User Gains Increased Perception To Nearby Characters/Mobs | Paranoia (1)Stacks With Each Character/Mob In Vicinity While Active, Increasing Hyper-Fixation. Decreases Vitality With Every (2)Stack.


    Cut Throat: |Increases The Chances To Land Critical Hits For As Long As Bloodlust (3)Stacks Have Been Placed On The User | Reduces Accuracy And Evasion, The User Becomes Frenzied.


    ___


    +Inventory: (-3)Potion: Health/Higher, (6)Potion: Health/Lower


    ___


    The two began their trek back down into the dungeon.


    Having already spent time exploring it, irregardless of Gray''s established knowledge, the two needed little time to progress down the floors again.


    Monster spawn areas were in the same general area, having an overall centered space, giving a minute sense of difference to their previous run.


    Though a significantly denser population of mobs were present on the highest floors. Each descent tapered the amount of enemies they encountered, somewhat reversing the experience typical of the dungeon.


    They practically ignored each approaching monster. Neither had to break into so much as a brisk stride to strike them down where they stood.


    Few attacks did penetrate the two''s offensive-defense, but they did little much than require their natural health regeneration to take over for a few moments.


    -ALTgray: "We''re getting closer to the part where we wiped. Stay at least somewhat alert please..." His character took a slightly crouched stance, still moving without delay.


    A distant noise, getting incrementally closer to the twin demons, could be felt. It subtly vibrated the ground.


    Gray saw it likely to have been Jour, preparing to again slay the trespassers of its land.


    -Leek: "Eh, I don''t think that noise is coming from further down. Its coming from the earli-"


    The yell of a kobold cut him off.


    "Grrgghr-"


    Doing the same, cutting its words short, he immediately threw one of his many Kunai straight through it head, refusing to spare it a glance.


    For a moment, before fizzling into experience points, the attack had its body pinned to the cave wall; same as a piece of paper, hung by a thumbtack.


    -Leek: His point was a simple one. "As I was saying. I think the noise is coming from the earlier parts of the dungeon. Not from Jourmandier, or his militia."


    -ALTgray: His movements stopped before turning to look at Leek. "Are you talking about Jour?" This question had little weight to it. "The dungeons boss is know as ''Jour.'' Not whatever you said."


    -Leek: "I''m sure, but that''s just an abbreviation of it. When I spoke with him it was, and I mean vividly, <u>Your-Man-Deer</u>. So we are both pretty much right."


    Leek saw no reason for the two to argue over such a moot point, so he attempted to reengage his duo into the task at hand.


    *A growing rumble* far heavier than that of the kobold legion had gotten fairly loud. Piercing even the forethought of sound in the cave.


    -ALTgray: "You SPOKE to the damn thing!" A passing feeling of betrayal overtook him during his words, and fled from him nearly as fast. "When did you plan on telling me this??" He knew that the expression was a bit over ''felt'' as his friend, Hakeem, would not hold such information from him out of shits and giggles.


    -Leek: "Ugh. You were there when it spoke, remember? You interrupted, then it said ''Silence.'' And you died on the spot."


    Gray had gotten slightly closer to him. He felt momentarily uncomfortable, so stepped back with confusion stricken on his face.


    -ALTgray: "Okay. So, the way I saw it was the thing just kept screeching really loudly. I never heard it ''speak.'' But... what exactly did it say!"


    Even with his attempt at calming down Gray drew closer to his companion. The armor on his body now took over the personal space Leek created with his step backward.


    Gray only held himself back when his hands nearly grabbed Leek''s clothing.


    This all occurred while the sounds of reinforcements came to a head.


    -???: "BOY, GIRL! Have your hearts forsaken rationality, and sought out the unknown abyss to pleasure its ignorance!?" This familiar voice was still strong in its commanding tone.


    Leek felt for a moment to panic, but was eased by the person speaking to him so condescendingly. He did wonder if his short height had anything to do with this compensating voice of his...


    Volun Sarek, the Adventurers Guild Master.

 Mock PvP

    Alongside the short master was a large group of individuals. They all were clad head-toe in what looked like some sort of raid gear.


    For comparison, Gray who had been in a more knightly attire was easily outclassed by the armor and weapon quality equipped by this group.


    This explained the heavy sound of their approach.


    -Volun Sarek: "You! Escort the pair to the dungeon''s opening." The man pointed at one of his subordinates and gestured for them to be the manifestation of these words. "MAKE HASTE. Time is not plentiful at this moment. Ensure they are not harmed under your protection, otherwise, my wrath will be retaliation enough!"


    The single individual sought not to question the Guild Master''s words.


    -Leek: "Wait. What is happening?" He and Gray were rounded up, and put into a more space-efficient pair.


    They were rushed away, at Leek''s coercion, and ushered through the dark tunnels of the dungeon.


    Any encounter with a hostile mob was avoided, the guard was of such a higher level that no monster dared to show their teeth to them. Running to cower at the twin demons new partner.


    -ALTgray: "... What is the point of this??" His shoulders hung a tad lower than usual, and any pitch in his voice flattened from before.


    -Avery: "Huh. Have You Not Been In Town Recently? I''ve Heard Whispers That Jour, The Cave Boss, Has Awoken And May Become An Imminent Threat To Faerilm." The guard started to get a tad more enthusiastic about the subject. "Every Offensive Guild Head Has Decided To Work Together, Form A Powerful Raid Group, And Attempt To Eliminate Jour, In The Case It''s Required!"


    - Leek: "So that''s what you guys were doing down there."


    - Avery: "No, We Are The Scout Group. The Main Raid Team, Which Is Stationed Elsewhere, Will Go In After us. We''re Trying To Figure Out The Situation And Make Sure Any Necessary Precautions Are Taken On The Actual Dive."


    After little more conversation about the specifics, sunlight from the outside could be seen by the party of three.


    They arrived at the destination set for them by Volun, the dungeons mouth.


    Avery, their temporary escort, bid a quick farewell and departed again to catch up to the Scout Group waiting for them.


    Now, on the outside, people had been gathered.


    They were all geared up, patiently waiting for some catalyst to call them to action.


    Noticing the individuals exit the cave, those at the front snapped to attention; anticipating the reemergence of a messenger from the Scout Group that had gone ahead of them.


    "Who is that."


    "Is that the Tamer Guild Leader?"


    "... Are we going now!?"


    "I don''t think thats people; monster?"


    Any air that stood still was quickly taken up with these, and other whispers.


    Leek and Gray''s eyes adjusted to the change in brightness the moment they exited. That''s when they saw the many people, who sat in anticipation, collectively groan at their sight.


    Nothing interesting, even in the slightest. They wanted intrigue, action... or at the very least, something that could point at these coming soon.


    These two people walking into the light did nothing to push either of those agendas. So no one wasted a beat getting back to their personal conversations.


    Blending into the background the twin demons went to reenter Faerilm''s walls.


    Squeezing through the many people, trying not to cause a commotion.


    "Oh, I think the gods have taken a liking to me!" With these words a hand clamped to his left shoulder.


    Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    Leek, confronted with his experience in the Guild Hall, froze for a moment. He was lost in thought before the person holding him shoved him, forcing his face to align with their''s.


    Dwarfing him in stature was a toothy grin; touching either rigid ear on the side of this woman''s face.


    Her hands, now free from Leek''s shoulder, were encased in a teal set of armor.


    -Karyel: "See. I thought you would have fled town about now. Or, at the least tried to switch characters on me!" She did not spare that ugly ass smile for more than the moments between her words.


    Leek heard these words, and rather than digest them immediately he went to looking around at any person accompanying Karyel.


    His eyes darted quickly, looking for that face, the one he saw not too long ago.


    Zhyen.


    The man who had initially attempted to reason with him during their encounter in the hall, though his biased leaned toward letting Karyel get her way.


    It was him who he sought to verify in this situation.


    -Karyel: Her grip had gotten tighter, taking note of Leek''s clear disconnect from her presence. "Hey! Who in the fuck are you looking for??" Her grin turned into a malportioned snarl, just as a rabid dogs. "So you aren''t taking me seriously?? Don''t worry, I''ll send your ass back to character creation!"


    Her intent was to teach a valuable lesson: Never step to those above you.


    And acting on her promise, Karyel threw her fist into the little lamb''s solar plexus.


    -Karyel: "How sweet! You didn''t even resist for me... I couldn''t have had a better present." A faux tear fell from her eyes, leaving a trail on her cheek. "Now if you were looking for my associates to step in, you''re shit out of luck."


    Everyone who had been in his way initially parted to make space for the encounter. All watching with silent consideration for the beat down that was going to happen.


    Karyel, especially when partnered with her companions, was a widely known bully.


    She would make newbies, and inexperienced players time a living nightmare for as long as she could. To a point that many would even consider it a right of passage for any accomplished adventurer.


    This was possible due to the ''Ranked Guided Journeyman'' status her character had.


    It came with a sense of superiority as there were not too many allowed at a time to hold it.


    NPC''s, or even the Master rank players in a guild were permitted to have a set amount of Guided Journeymen, that acted just as an apprentice under them. This directed not only interactions with other guild members, but it also altered how an NPC interaction would go.


    Cities were guarded by high ranked NPC''s.


    Karyel, for example, could employ them to do her bidding under the sway of her exceptional title; common players would have no more than a shoehorned dialogue option, thus being unable to combat her intentions by talking a situation out.


    To anyone remotely experienced with social tendencies, this was fertile soil to breed a fair bit of corruption among the unprincipled higher ranks.


    When you spend time going from place-to-place, having to trek previous grounds of other adventurers, its very likely for you to have frequent run-ins with particular groups; the more active the greater chance of an encounter.


    So the sphere of influence would spread from more than the same-guild members.


    Trade routes could be altered enough to bleed a town dry of their crafting materials, reducing the experience a given blacksmith could earn, and their total output.


    Forcing them to relocate to a larger settlement, and having to split a greater amount of their gains with others grinding in the same spot. Effectively stunting their short-term growth.


    Similar situation with a players aiming for nobility within a certain region.


    Appearances, and renown could not be overstated enough. One letter, strongly worded against your person could be indicative of an unfair candidate, thus losing any practical shot at a title.


    "Court Of The Incompetent,'' or " The Band Of The Brutes" are common appellations thrown around at her and anyone facilitating/condoning her actions.


    These reasons, not in isolation, gave precedent for no one to step in and aid the helpless bird, caught in her deadfall.


    -Leek: "So... why can''t you just fuck-off?" The punch he endured did (6)HP worth of damage, stretching just short of his expectation. But regardless, the wind had been knocked clean out of his jaw.


    -Karyel: "Heh? You still have a mouth on you!?" Her frustration rose a bit more. "Okay. Take a taste of this then!"


    In the moment she finished uttering her words her body had been enshrouded in a colourful aura.


    This casing had a tangible feeling.


    Karyel''s feet became sturdy, and her muscles seemed to have gained density.


    Maybe her height had changed in either direction also?


    -Leek:It was unclear as the differences were too subtle to Leek''s eyes. "What i-"


    *ccCrAaaGhhT*


    An aura covered kick connected with his fifth, sixth, and seventh ribs. Whipping itself around, and practically hitting him in the back at the same time.


    There was no armor covering her leg, yet this attack felt stiffer than the hit with her clad hands.


    His knees almost gave, his left hand clenched at his ribcage. The pain matched something he''d expected of the hit to his solar plexus.


    (9)HP of damage.


    -Leek: To control himself Leek took a deep breath, the pain was sharp as he did so. "Huu-Agghhhh"


    -Karyel: "Huh? Seems like I might have hurt you... could you ever for-GIVE ME!" Another kick came at him, looking to hit the already weakened right-side of his ribcage.


    He still prepared to counter the hit in the rosy chance he had the skill to do so; it was more probable for him to go flying than to do too much.


    At minimum he tensed in apprehension.


    Then, coming from his right side, a sudden thrust of wind materialized. Causing a reactionary chill to run down his spine.


    "No more. Stop your assault."

 Chapter 27

    Gray had been Leek''s company.


    He decided to leave his friend alone to sort out the Karyel situation.


    With time on his hands, he asked questions to the people who stood outside the dungeon, trying to figure out the commotion leading to this large gathering.


    -ALTgray: Watching the situation with Leek, taking glances occasionally in his peripheral. "So, this is a limited event? I don''t remember it being announced..."


    "Of course, it''s new. I think it has something to do with the announced update. A show on how they''re adding more life to the empty parts of the game."


    "Tbh, they needed it. I was gonna stop playing in like, the next 40 hours if they didn''t, like fix the cardboard world."


    "Yeah. Stay away from the forums; EVERYONE''s fighting over the update. And there isn''t a point; we don''t have a concrete release date yet, all that shit for no reason."


    "I can send you a screenshot, but this is an NPC-initiated quest, I think. I think It''s going to start in a bit, so my group either went to sleep or will dive in later. I''m just chilling while I wait."


    The army of players waiting for the Scout Group to return was not one affiliated force. It was made up of a multitude of teams, in the range of three to twelve, all responding to an open mission.


    "Bro. The only part of the coming update that ACTUALLY matters is the new Collegium land auctions. To think it''d take THIS long for FAO to implement such a BASIC feature!"


    * Collegium: FAO''s name for a player-made guild/faction, used for voluntary social interaction in the game by any interested


    Different from the in-game ''guilds,'' as these are pre-established and are not able to be owned by players *


    "Its just that we cann-"


    -ALTgray: "Okay. Thanks for answering my question!" Gathering no new information Gray cut the last person off, going directly to Leek''s side.


    Cutting through the crowd was not so difficult.


    If Gray wanted he could walk straight through the crowd since he was not active in PVP, or directly interacting with them, there was no restriction.


    Another option was to lower the player density in settings. ''There''s no point in having the highest end of tech, just to let it waste!'' Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    This was his argument to not go that route, choosing to take the RPG element of the game a little more serious than the average player.


    When he made it to his party member the first thing he noticed was that he wasn''t alone.


    A figure was already at his right hand.


    Something about the way it stood, and the design of its character was oddly familiar. Hanging on its back was an oversized scythe, the curved blade floating only a few inches from the ground.


    The appearance of this being, from its unnoticed absence, was separated by a mild gust of wind.


    Karyel''s kick had been parried by a figure dressed head-toe in stereotypical Japanese ninja attire, a mere foot from where Leek stood.


    She put her leg down, regaining the rigid stance of her frame.


    "Heed me." A deep baritone voice came from under the sharply angled black demon mask cowering its face


    -Karyel: Aggression of her words died down, but her bloodlust did not. "A Hanzou?.. who cares about this little shit that much!" Her face twisted to the side, her eyes beating down the sight of the being.


    The aura surrounding her body followed suit, removing itself and dissipating quickly.


    -Karyel: "Fine." The ignorant meathead spat a loogie. Sticking to his shoe before slowly sliding down it. "Hope you don''t think you''re untouchable."


    Leaving these words with the small birdie,  she went to mingle with another group of players, all of who seemed to be unbothered by the treatment of Leek.


    -ALTgray: "A Hanzou!" The words of Karyel had immediately jogged his memory of this entity.


    A summonable subordinate. This creature is known for its exceptional stealth and reconnaissance and unparalleled ability to collect and transmit information, at their specific level, that is to not be taken lightly.


    The foremost con of this summon being the painstakingly slowpreparations needed to produce just a singular patch of scrolls; rarely found as drops.


    Risk-to-ratio when using this specific NPC was thusly skewed to the downside. To the point where most cases, information would not be worth the threat of losing a scroll.


    Alongside inherent hoarding, this all counteractively created a vacuum in the market for Hanzou scroll.


    Yet to be filled to demand.


    To expend one of these tools, the objective would need to be fairly important


    -ALTgray: "Okay, I''m starting to feel like we aren''t on the same page!" These words were imbued with jealousy fueled by the twos deteriorating communication. "I don''t think my heart can take too much more!?" The suit of armor put its hand to its helmet being overtly theatrical, insinuating that it would faint.


    -Leek: Looking over to face Gray, who reappeared after the Houdini act, he questioned. "What are you going on about, so dramat- WAIT A DAMN MINUTE!!!" In an instant he went from annoyed, to purely enraged. "The FUCK were you doing while I was getting my ass whooped!!"


    -ALTgray: "Ughh-I- You-" His stutter, clearly, did not help mend or counter the accusations. "I couldn''t have done anything... So there was no point of u-us both to get hit!" The lifted hand went from dramatic, to making a point.


    Its index finger pointing to exclamation his words.


    -Leek: He closed the ground between himself and the traitor. "You''re scary as fuck!" his finger went to poke the inside of the helmet, hoping to hit an eye or two.


    The couple then got into a tussle.


    Leek went to shove the armor, to which it kept him at arm''s length. Then he was put into a headlock; trying to escape he resulted to biting the metal suit.


    It all degraded into squabble amongst children.


    Throwing insults to mask the embarrassment each felt for one another.

 Chapter 28

    - ALTgray: "I''m just saying." His voice was low, drooling his dispirited attitude. "You should have told me we had a Hanzou!"


    - Leek: "Again." He found it redundant to repeat himself on the simple matter. "I. Do. Not. Know. What. Or who. That. Was! And what do you mean by we, if I did have one you sure as hell ain''t contribute towards getting it."


    For anyone peering into the situation, it was a Hanzou protecting its master or assigned detail.


    After preventing Leek from being crushed into a fine pulp any further at Karyel''s hands, the Hanzou had removed itself entirely. The two could not tell if it had wholly retreated or remained close while in some camouflage.


    - Leek: "Even if it had something to do with me, I''d keep your ass far away from it. Trying to run up in here because you saw a shiny toy that had not a damn thing to do with you."


    An important detail they seemed to have glossed over too quickly was the owner of the Hanzou.


    That simple piece of information could work either in their favor or come back to bite them in the ass just as simply.


    Someone like Karyel isn''t too far outside the realm of being petty enough to have deployed the entity to watch Leek, keeping enough tabs on him to repeatedly hinder any progression he set forth to make.


    Though the immediate rebuttal to this is its proactive decision to keep her from harming the bird any further than she had already.


    But disregarding that, this was something neither had any thoughts about, just being glad they didn''t have to find some way to deal with the ogre on their own.


    -ALTgray: Cutting down the overtly joking mood the two found themselves in, the suit of armor put forth a bit of composure. "So, now. What was it you were saying. About Jour ''speaking'' to you?"


    This conversation had started earlier but was so rudely interrupted by the short master.


    - Leek: "Huh!? Oh yeah, that whole thing." His memory was not something to even remotely boast about, but out of respect he went about trying to recount the turn-based interaction.


    Gray had died.


    Leek did his best to resist the ticking away of his health.


    Dialogue options appeared to him, in response to Jourmandier''s provocation.


    It agreed to accompany him after he held might, and not just his tongue.


    Hit him with a bright breath weapon.. and that maybe should be it all, outside of his searing view of a naked toned woman standing above him.


    -ALTgray: "Mmmm. Not going to lie to you... I''m not even shocked anymore." This response had been more tame than the ones before. "Just looking at that glaive and gauntlet, which by the way is the ss-TUPIDEST build I have ever seen in my life. I don''t think anything is out of the way."


    His reactions seemed to have hit its curve, taking in new information just as he would regurgitated knowledge.


    In the grand aspect of everything his energy was better used in another manner, not just tiring himself out at the smallest things.


    - Leek: "You saw how I was tearing it up back in the cave! Block, slash, block, slash and all. So i''ll stick to it for a bit, probably until I get bored and try something else." The two casually strolled along, then Leek got a mild thought. "Hey, we might as well do this since we''re out of town?"


    ''Something Is Occurring With The Population Of Wolves, For Whatever Reason They Have Gotten Stronger And Denser In Number |Explore The Wolves Den Above Faerilm|''


    Leek shared the quest with Gray.


    - ALTgray: Three moments passed before he simply accepted the offer. "Yeah. Thats cool. I need some more adventurer experience.  Been ignoring it for my build recently."Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    So they were off, again.


    ""


    -???: "We cannot let slip of the boy''s actions in the matter... in the scenario this gets out we can throw all hope for pre-established connections to wade us through."


    -???: "You''re correct on that. But will investment in this prove fruitful in the long run, or are we resting in a bear''s den to sleep on its riches?"


    -???: "My reputation can assure you in my intuition. This boy may be a Dragon amongst men."


    For a moment the man sat in silence at the end of his interlocutor''s words... To then break out into a hysterical fit of laughter.


    -???: "These words of yours my friend." His hand repeatedly smacked the table, "I SHALL FOLLOW YOUR LEAD INTO THIS KEEP, HOPING FOR A HOARD OF GOLD!"


    Between the attempts at catching his breaths, the man fought to not suffocate on a surplus of cheese and mead.


    Crumbs, not limiting where they landed erupted candidly from his throat, coated in his phlegm.


    ...


    At a point during the conversation the bulbous man came to an abrupt stop, looking off to his side and staring at nothing.


    No longer than a moment, a mild breeze summoned from nothing. It blew some loose papers and layers of dust around.


    A minion know to be at the hand of the glutton had materialized itself, wearing black attire and exuding an empty presence.


    The two engaged in an exchange of information, wasting little time before doing so.


    A common practice would be to communicate in a specially crafted language, as to prevent the leaking of crucial information to any party then the intended one.


    This was something the excluded party had no context for; unable to decipher without some key.


    ...


    -???: "So Volun, my dazzling dreamer. It appears you may have been sooner in thought than later."


    - Volun Sarek: "Hmmm. May it be so." The guild master had his stare fixated on an imaginary point. "This situation, though, needs immediate attention. A push of force, to put this outside of proportion would be the most appropriate... Zenrael."


    The two had spoken for a while, catching themselves up properly to the actions Leek has gone about in the time between his encounter on the mountain.


    - Zenrael Aheldir: "How would that be of any use? More eyes draw greater chances of being caught." The two had no illicit dealings in this particular matter, but still didn''t want anyone to catch on to their thoughts.


    Their eyes had not wavered in their draw for the character "Leek." To not be misconstrued with the player himself, that they had no interest in.


    - Volun Sarek: "In this case, I argue the contrary. Disappointment and expectation will vastly out shadow that of a random player, and leave people questioning our big picture, not his small one."


    - Zenrael Aheldir: He took a moment to contemplate the strategy. "...well, I''ll gather the information heads. Make sure to prepare me a sweet reward for my return." He stood, wiping his tacky hands on the seats arm rest.


    - Volun Sarek: "Of course. You''re the embodiment of gluttony are you not." He thoroughly  squinted at his sharp comment, giving a shallow smile to accompany it.


    Time after time Zenrael had shown his battling sin to be his voracity towards anything edible, or particularly tasty.


    And with this the bulbous man went about, on his way.


    - Volun Sarek: *Deep sigh* "Sometimes I want to know if prestige is nothing but a mocking jest..." The small master put his face in his hands, taking this brief space in his schedule alone to relieve at least a bit of his current stress.


    Using subconscious intent, the master let go of his self restraint for a moment. Slipping into a mental space more comfortable for him.


    Within a short window of time he''s had to deal with the recent trade restrictions, running into a  Belvirian, threat from Jourmandier, growing audacity from the wolf population, dealings with a Faeriaght heir, and the need to take head of a scout group...


    All while juggling the guild''s petty squabbles caused by the likes of Karyel, and spearheaded by her national arm ''Zhyen.''


    It was getting to be too much.


    Once upon a time the office goblin ''Volun Sarek'' was a name synonymous with the aspirations of an entire region. Putting into motion the tales of epics, and creating techniques viewed nothing short of fabled.


    Those days have been lost to his responsibility.


    Deciding to refuse his place as a pawn to the aristocrat overlords, and to take on something grander than himself.


    As a separate entity from the state, the Adventurers Guild gave him the opportunity to do more without having to directly answer to some disconnected higher-up, looking to stuff their already overflowing financial reserves.


    It very well may be better than what he otherwise would be doing at this time, if still used as the regions sword, but it cannot stop his mind from wandering.


    During his easement, so familiar to this, the room dropped in its temperature.


    In the pressing cold, falling snow.


    That''s where he found warmth.


    Looking back up from his hands, Volun took more than a moment to fully convince himself of where he was.


    Somewhere long gone to the modern day, left gently in his imperfect memory.


    ~~


    Tracks from a person even smaller than himself, paved beyond his sight; his arms forcing themselves to continue onward.


    A voice from afar, masked mostly by the rushing air, yelled out.


    "Hey!! What took you so long to get down here!?


    *Cough*


    You''re supposed to be strong!?"


    ~~


    His head losing the battle to remain up fell back into his hands, lower than before.


    "I miss you too..." His body spoke in accident.


    Now resting calmly on his desk, as again his office slowly reverted back to a hospitable temperature for other living organisms.


    Away from his optimistic dreaming.

 Chapter 29

    - ALTgray: "Where''d you even find this one?" Needing no response the suit continued. "You got some crazy ass RNG. Wouldn''t get priority for this otherwise..."


    The pair were currently referring to the mission Leek obtained.


    ''Something Is Occurring With The Population Of Wolves, For Whatever Reason They Have Gotten Stronger And Denser In Number |Explore The Wolves Den Above Faerilm|''


    The guild board, where most people source their missions, has a filter to match players with a balanced quest. This is intended to keep higher-level players from inhaling every low-risk-okay-reward one for themselves.


    Community opinion on the system is roughly split, with the newer players voicing a preference to it


    - Leek: "Actually!" His head went back. Raising his chin to an uncomfortable degree, followed by his index finger pointing somewhere in the sky. "It was a conversion from some basic slaying quest."


    He intended to revel in this moment, where he could correct his grass-fearing friend.


    - Leek: "Plus, my luck is at 7."


    [LUCK: 7 ](+5)


    It was easy for him to overlook his character''s stat, but to best answer his friend''s answer he mentioned it.


    - ALTgray: Without a doubt, Gray knew that no such baseline existed for players in FAO, though it would clearly fit in a more RPG-centric title: the original game, FAo. "Ugh. Okay." That is all he said.


    Then, in little time the pair found themselves atop the city of Faerilm. Standing opposite from the forest Leek previously fought in.


    There was a couple of people in the plain area, some partied together, gathering resources and/or fending off the rabid wolves trying to take them as their meal.


    - ALTgray: He surveyed the area, taking a metal note of its current state. "Let''s get going. Before any respawn timer''s are up."


    Mob density at the moment is lower than typical, caused likely by some hard-farming.


    - Leek: He jumped around in place, trying to get his blood flowing. "Time to run this shit back."


    Barely managing to squeak out a win his last time Leek was getting in the headspace to demolish the pests, taking it as a round two of an eight round bout; anticipating nothing but a decisive KO/TKO win.


    The den they were looking for was hidden deep in the forest section.


    So they continued forth.


    ...


    As they progressed it became harder to not come to head with the rabid animals. They grew in number and strength.


    *Grrrrr-huff*


    One of the wolves Leek had come to murder attempted a retreat, running on just fumes of HP.


    Its paw was lifted, trying to keep it weight on the other three as it was in pain. The deep breath it took did not recuperate enough strength to lose its pursuer.


    - Leek: "Hey. Where you going!" His words came out with an audible sense of urgency, yet he moved at only a mildly brisk pace. "Ughh."


    Despite barely having moved from his inital location the boy chose to not follow the beast any further, deciding to lazily throw three kunai.


    *Arrff*


    Its life ended in that moment, dying with only a pitiful whimper.


    - ALTgray: "Stop messing around. They''re not even worth the EXP. The strong ones are deeperrr..." The end of his sentence slurred, as he turned to look even deeper in the forest.


    Roughly two hand-fulls of the beasts have challenged the pair, but not one was anything to note. They came for a challenge, just to reconsider when their foe''s called bluff.


    -Leek: "Where''d the rest go-" He put his arm up to flex his bicep, gripping it with his other hand. "Guess I''m just too scary." A cheesy grin was the only reaction he got out either of them.


    Trying to keep his friend close and under control Leek followed his lead.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    .


    ..


    ...


    - Leek: "Uhh. Where''s the rest of them?" It''d been a couple of minutes of blindly wandering, at least that''s how it felt to him. They had seemingly been dodging every wolf since the last one. "We were just getting started..." His head hung low momentarily, trying to savor the fading taste of a ''thrilling'' battle again.


    - ALTgray: "Ughrrrr. Where. Are. They." Gray was hunched over, like a living suit of armor held together with waining magic. His sword, no different from the standard blade issued at the start of any fantasy game/story, was being dragged tip-down into the ground. "Im getting. Impatient..."


    With another grunt Gray took his sword and swung haphazardly at one of the many trees planted near him, doing so with only an inkling of proper form.


    Throwing only his hand that gripped the sword and his shoulder.


    It sunk into the tree''s bark but stopped around thirty percent of the way. Its thickness was on the thinner side, and with his character''s known strength, it should have been a clean cut.


    - Leek: "Dude. Chilll!" It was just outside of his personality to get this worked up over some server issue. "The timer is probably just buggin ou-"


    - ALTgray: "Shut the fuck up. And use your ''Cold Feeling'' skill." His metal head turned just enough to look at Leek through its peripheral. "It could help."


    - Leek: Taken aback by this comment, he swallowed the ballooning anger in his throat. "Are you... I.. whatever dude."


    His instinct, when partnered with the conscious attempt at activating [Coldening Feeling] took over.


    Any noise he once filtered out, crickets, chirping, flexing bark, etc. came to the foreground all at once.


    Simple spacial awareness of anything other than himself melted away.


    Energy was something every being sentient or not, emitted.


    Feeding the cycle of this sculpted world that many did not contribute to.


    Instead they were taking everything possible, feeding an endless desire.


    No different from a clump of cancerous cells.


    A disgusting parasite; He felt it, where his eyes couldn''t see.


    They tried to hide in the dark but it was clear, their blood lust, their beastly nature.


    He touched nirvana for less than a moment before shifting violently back to perspective.


    Two.


    Five..


    Ten...


    Twelve....


    It came back to him. His eyelids opened, the balls following shortly after.


    - ALTgray: "...EY"


    Leek fell to one knee, with one hand gripping his face tightly.


    His eyes began throwing themselves around in every direction.


    - ALTgray: "Oka... what''s th.... oblem"


    The masses grew closer, trying to keep still and conceal themselves.


    - ALTgray: "Leek! What''s wrong!?"


    It would be best if you focused on those. Unless you want me to die.


    "What..."


    Though dying wouldn''t be the worst: Hakeem.


    "Leek?"


    You''re pathetic; Block


    An immediate lunge sent the selfish construct barreling at a speed Gray couldn''t react to, still not drawing his attention as he attempted to understand his friend''s current strife.


    His mind did not clear itself, but his body moved irregardless.


    Each of the [Gauntlet Pair (Pristine)]''s equipped into his hands, forcing his glaive back into his inventory.


    *GGG-uu-RRAGhhgGG*


    Gray rotated his head to try and follow his friend''s sudden moments, though still lagging behind by a few moments.


    Another wolf from the den they currently sought was no more than an inch away from taking his head off his shoulders, rows of teeth just gnawing to make him its snack.


    Leek''s covered hands were the only thing that kept him from taking this attack ''head-on.''


    - ALTgray: "holy." How had he let his awareness get so bad? Just looking at it, you could see liters of saliva coating its mouth, drooling immensely in anticipation. "Thanks."


    He thanked his compatriot before his leisure time ran out, spending no time in moving past the question he posed


    His right hand lifted and released his frustration directly into the beast''s face.


    Letting fly a red beam that could be compared to zipping lightning with its speed and arching nature.


    [C. Dirus (20)]


    This monster was of a different species to the others, clearly pointed out by the name change and its increased size.


    While the previous ones had sections of fur spotted in white, primarily behind the ear, this one was a solid gray throughout, getting slightly darker at the scruff.


    Gray''s attack threw it back but mostly affected its immediate senses.


    -ALTgray: "Would''ve been a clean kill earlier." He moved to follow up the shot with a sword to the leg, aiming for the tendon. "Whatever."


    Due to the attack, Leek no longer had a grip on the [C. Dirus (20)].


    His eyes did not miss a beat, darting sporadically at the surrounding trees and concealed foes.


    *Ugrrrgh.*


    A painful grunt slipped from his mouth.


    - Leek: "Come for me." His deep breaths took on a growling rage, the notion of strategy being replaced with his need to direct violence.


    In a moment Leek under came the effects of both his [Coldening Feeling] & [Cut Throat] skills. The latter resulting in a ''frenzied'' state, with the former accounting for his tunnel-vision focus.


    ___


    Status Page: Leek (17)


    [ Skill Points: 5 ]


    HP 20 (+2)


    SPD 8 (+2)


    VIT 14 (+0)


    TEQ 3 (+3)


    EVN 5 (+4)


    SSK 3


    [ LUCK: 7 ](+5)


    Inventory: (1)Elixir: Vitality/Basic, Coin Pouch: 97, (6)Angora Tails: Rotten, (7)Angora Tails: Fresh, (1)Drawstring Bag: Basic, (9)Shuriken, (12)Kunai, Gauntlet Pair(Great), (6)Potion: Speed/Normal, (3)Elixir: Health/Normal, (3)Elixir: Mana/Higher, (6)Scroll: Transcribe/Superior, Glaive(Great), Clothing (Pristine), Shoes (Great),(+47)Toad Legs: Common/Material, (+7)Toad Tongue: Common/Material, (+12)Scales: Common/Material, (+3)Oral Glands: Uncommon/Venomous, (6)Potion: Health/Lower,


    ___


    Strength Of The Weak: |Increases Morale To Subordinate, And Or Lower-Level Companions When Associated With The Abilities User | + To Select AC or HP, Increases Loyalty By (1) With Every (1/2) Difference In Level.


    Coldening Feeling:|When Active The User Gains Increased Perception To Nearby Characters/Mobs | Paranoia (1)Stacks With Each Character/Mob In Vicinity While Active, Increasing Hyper-Fixation. Decreases Vitality With Every (2)Stack.


    Cut Throat: |Increases The Chances To Land Critical Hits For As Long As Bloodlust (3)Stacks Have Been Placed On The User | Reduces Accuracy And Evasion, The User Becomes Frenzied.


    ___


    Gray would deal with the most tasking mob while Leek kept the others off of him, splitting the workload according to their level and expertise.


    This was the same tactic they took in the dungeon to fend off Jourmandier''s horde.