《The Misadventures of Ray in an Alternate Universe》


 A new game, a new challenge.

    Prologue


    "Sigh. All these new strategy games and none of them truly pose a challenge to the great me, what a sad age of gaming we have arrived in." Ray shrugged his shoulders as he calmly exited the store, casually rubbing his head. "12 stores and none of their games can even give me a good challenge, maybe strategy games have just reached their limit. Ah well, perhaps I could find a better game online."


    An hour of walking home, followed by 10 seconds of surfing the internet later. Ray stumbled upon something that caught his eye. "Oooooo, what''s this?!"


    A game development company known as real world entertainment was looking for game testers for their latest project War of Aetheria, featuring battles with magic, strategy and good ol'' swords. Not only that, but they even have different races with big advantages and disadvantages leading to each race having different strategies that work for them, allowing for a great variety of playability. "A most interesting concept, i suppose i could register and offer my expert advice. It would be interesting to see such a thing since a lot of games I''ve been playing only feature epic human battles."


    After signing up, ray waited a few seconds before a message popped up on his laptop notifying him of his accepted beta test status as well as an instruction manual. "Haha, took them long enough. Let''s take a look at this."


    CONGRATULATIONS, YOU HAVE BEEN INVITED TO BETA TEST WAR OF AETHERIA. PLEASE REFER TO YOUR INSTRUCTION MANUAL FOR DETAILS ABOUT INSTALLATION, CONTROLS AND RULES OF THE WORLD.


    Getting Started


    Welcome to the World of Aetheria young traveller, my name is Bob. I will be guiding you through the laws of this world.


    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Wonder who thought it was a good idea to give him the name Bob...


    The World of Aetheria is split into 6 continents, each continent will have 1,000 factions from the different races. For example, one of the races being elves may be split into different factions some worshipping the sun god, some the moon and even the natural beauty of forest. The factions may be different but remember that ultimately they belong to one race.


    The game functions like regular RPGs where you can level and learn skills, however one of the key features is that war between factions is impossible to avoid. Be prepared to run or fight, for this world is forever changing.


    Lastly, good luck, have fun.....Wait what?


    "THATS IT? No controls, no beginner starting help, only installation and world breakdown..."


    Ray groaned as he plastered his hands into his face, god i hate games that make you find things out yourself, games like dank souls(Hah) are torture to me.


    "But still, 6 continents with thousands of factions, sounds like a suitable challenger has arrived to fight against the great me! Mwahahahahaha!"  With a sly grin and a new motivation for the future, Ray could only tremble with excitement as the game finally installed itself.


    "Watch out world, here comes Ray, the god of strategy! Mwahahahahaha!"


    Please insert VR Connector Cable.


    ....


    ....


    Awkward.


    To be Continued.

 Chapter 1- The worst of starts

    Chapter 1 - The worst of starts


    "Alright, cable is in, VR device is on, I am still amazing. Looks like I''m all set. Game start!"


    After an awkward moment unlike that of the amazing Ray, the game was finally installed and ready. Finally we get to see the amazing world that has been setup for us!


    Cable connection not detected. Please reconnect cable again.


    "...."


    One inconvenient hour later...


    Connection complete. Welcome to the World Of Aetheria.


    First complaint, make the setup easier please.


    Now moving to character creation. Please standby.


    In a flash, Ray was brought to a dark room with several panels and a mannequin in the center, each panel appeared to have an image of a body part, from the hair to the toe.  "Oooo, what is this strange place." Ray would ponder as an old man appeared totally dressed in white, from his suit to his fancy top hat and back to his white shoes.


    Wardrobe change for this strange character is going to be my second complain- "OI, WHAT DID YOU SAY ABOUT MY OUTFIT!"  Ray was stunned silent as the strange old man yelled at him, flinching backwards. "Woah, how did they program mind reading into this game."


    With a small grunt, the man regained his composure and spoke in a most gentlemanly fashion. "Greetings rude fellow, my name is Bob, god of this world. I am here to guide you through the body creation process."


    ...


    His name is Bob, he''s a god and he has horrible taste in clot-"SILENCE!" Ray was greeted with a harsh smack to the head from Bob''s open palm attack. "Enough about my clothes fool, it''s time to worry about yours!" Ray, lying on the ground with a slight bump on his head, recovered slowly with lots of Ows and Ughs and proceeded to the many panels before him.


    Looks like I''ll have to be careful when it comes to clothes around him. Anyway, looks like the dev team has put a lot of time into the design of this thing. Scrolling through the panels, Ray bore witness to hundreds and thousands of different body parts, belonging to the many races. There were even tentacles! Such attention to detail, though the ladies may not like the idea of tentacled beings. Heh heh heh.


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    "So Bob, how does the great Ray create a character befitting of his stature!" he would announce rather loudly.


    "That''s Mr Bob to you fool. But it''s very simple, pick a body part that you wish to have on your in-game body and it will appear on the mannequin. You may examine the different combinations of parts but there are limits, as each part will give an advantage to the final body, we have assigned points to each part. For example, tough scales of the dragonkin cost 5 points, the final point count of the body must not exceed 20 in order to ensure people stay within a balanced range."


    .....Zzzzzzzz


    Bob, holding back his urge to body slam this fool to the ground uttered loudly. "Pick what you want, it cannot be overpowered..." You could clearly see the amount of willpower he had to use as his old man veins began popping out.


    "AH!" yelped the awakened Ray. "Ughh, I had this strange nightmare where the powers that be summoned a violent exposition monster that kept on-" With a loud thud, Ray fell to the ground, the old man mounted on him.


    I think I just got bodyslammed.


    "Yes you did and due to your arrogance, I the almighty Bob sentence you to THE WORST START. You will start off in worst possible location, with the worst possible stats, the worst possible items, the wor-"


    Authors Note: As cinemasins would put it, roll credits.


    Before Bob could go on, Ray interrupted him with an arrogant smug. "You know, for a god you have a limited vocabulary." The old man paused for a second, his face frozen with annoyance at this annoying scum and threw him at the wall....


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH." yelled Ray as he was launched at the wall but surprisingly there was no impact. "Eh, EH, EHHHHHH?!!?" continued Ray as he found himself falling through the air.


    Ah. I''m falling.


    ....


    ....


    "AHHHHHHHHHH!" he would continue as the ground slowly grew larger. Ray braced himself as he smashed into thick jungle foliage. "UGH, OW, NO, BUH, ARHG." were some of the produced sounds as he kept hitting the thick jungle branches. Finally, he hit the ground with a soft thud.


    Authors Note: Ray has some serious lung power on him.


    My back, my stomach, my face, I can''t feel anything... but I''m alive at least...


    "HALT DON''T MOVE." Ray could only stare as small gnomish creatures surrounded him poking him lightly with their wooden spears.


    Great, goblins.


    To be continued.

 Chapter 2- Goblins and Chief

    Chapter 2- Goblins and Chief


    Hello there everyone, my name is Ray. I am a genius and I am currently being held captive by a bunch of goblins. Yup, those little guys. I hope you''re doing we- "BURGH!" Ray was temporarily silenced by a good ol'' stick to the gut. Ouch.


    "Human quiet!" yelled one of the prison goblin guards. The goblins looked like atypical RPG goblins, they weren''t the smartest creatures and were about as high as a regular person''s leg. They also were really ugly, curved pointy noises, warts and green skin. Ray couldn''t even imagine using parts from them for that character creation part.


    Authors note: Paid attention now didn''t he?


    Ray has earned a title: Goblin Captive


    Titles are earned by performing certain actions in-game. Titles are visible to other players and NPCs will react to you differently when you have or don''t have certain titles. Titles grant bonuses to certain stats. Some titles stay forever, some go away after a long period of time.


    Wow. Exposition galore and also Goblin Captive, really? This title just doesn''t suit the great Ray, still can''t figure out how to open the menu.


    Menu Opened.


    Oh. That was easy. Well let''s see what this title does.


    Goblin Captive. -100 Charisma, -100 Fame. Anyone who gets caught by these creatures are either the most unlucky or the weakest saps in the world.


    ...


    I must have angered someone up there.


    Authors Note: Yes you did.


    "We take human to chief. Chief will judge human."  Ray was interrupted from his thoughts as he was ''dragged'' out, more like poked with sticks until he started moving and was bound by a thick piece of rope. The goblin village wasn''t anything special, just a bunch of wooden huts, some built into the trees and some next to them, the paths were basically dirt, no walls. There also seemed to be goblin woman(as gross as the men) and children(similarly as gross) standing around staring at me. Might it have been this handsome face that has attracted them. Ray would release a cocky smirk before getting a chunk of dirt thrown at his face by one of the children.


    "BAH! DIRT IN MY EYES!"


    "MOVE HUMAN!"


    Ray had to bear with the dirt as he was marched in the brown dark(Mud in his eyes) before being forced to kneel in front of the chieftain''s hut, not that Ray could see it anyway.


    "Human, you dare to enter our sacred forest and damage it''s trees, for that you must be punished." A strangely sweet womanly voice would come out, surprising Ray who expected some form of bad English followed by short sentences FOLLOWED BY manly voice.


    Did she mean when I smacked right into the trees and branch on my certain doom fall...


    In Ray''s mind a clear image of Bob smiling and winking, his teeth sparkling as he was throwing him out of the character creation room came to him.


    Pretty sure Bob has it in for me, I''m impressed at the NPC''s realism. I should write to the developers and tell them what a good job they''ve done with the NPCs for they have managed an impossible feat, impressing the great me.


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


    Meanwhile, in reality, Ray was being tied to a pole with stacks of firewood underneath him.


    Title earned. Enemy of the West Sacred Forest Goblins. Affinity -10, Strength + 5. Forest loving races and factions will now hate you.


    ....


    ....


    I''m being burnt alive aren''t I. "WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT. Your glorious magnificent chieftain king emperor gobliness, I did not mean to hurt your forest. I was sent here by BOB THE GOD!"


    Technically I was sent here by god, so this totally counts, now then fools. Bow before Ray and beg his forgi-.


    "What kind of name is Bob and how dare you blaspheme the name of god like that, the one true god is Auria the priestess of the forest!" The unseen chieftain yelled out again in her sweet voice.


    That''s my reaction! "I swear it on my life, I was sent here by a god and I bring gifts for the west goblin people!"


    There was a brief moment of silence followed the small sounds of the goblins moving about, Ray felt the ropes fall from his arms and water splashed upon his face. The mud literally falling off his eyes and he behold a beautiful young woman, totally not a goblin by the way, standing before him, dressed in a druidish outfit.


    Whuh whuh whuh what? This is the chieftain?


    "Outsider, I will allow you a moment to hand over the gift you have promised. If truly a god has sent you to us, you must be holding an amazing gift." she would say with an excited little girl expression on her face.


    She looks exactly like a little girl excited about getting christmas presents... and at that moment Ray came up with a realization.


    I DON''T HAVE ANYTHING. Come on, think Ray, there must be something that you can give them. Your life at stake here. Wait a moment, the village is primitive in nature. Their huts are made of straw, their weapons sticks. Yes, maybe I can wing it this way. Alright, plan set. Now I just need to make them believe it. RAY FACE ON.


    "Most beautiful chieftain and goblins of the west forest. How can such a noble and brave people likes yourselves live like this. The great lord Bob has seen your plight and has decided to send me, THE GREAT RAY, to help you become strong!" Ray proudly pronounced to the entire village population.


    Hehe, now they have no choice but to let me go free and helping this village is going to be such a simple task for me. It''s foolproof!


    Authors note: Convincing argument is convincing.


    "Eh, but we don''t really mind how we''re living."


    SO FRANK! Ray dropped to his knees in surprise, he wasn''t expecting such a backwater people to reject his idea of living more comfortably.


    "Oh but if you were sent by a god then it should be super amazing! Right?!" the chieftain proudly announced to the whole village. The village was now abuzz with the goblins talking to each other about how a god''s messenger has arrived to improve their lives in the most amazing ways.


    ...


    ...


    God help me.


    To be Continued.

 Chapter 3 - Learning the game

    Chapter 3 - Learning the game


    "Good luck Mr Ray, the goblins are at your disposal."


    "Thank you very much Ms Maya..."


    Sigh...Hello everyone, the name''s Ray. I now admit that I am in the deepest of shits, for the first time in a long time I''ve hit a wall. First, the game never explained any of it''s mechanics. Second, the game has this strange program that will throw you into the game if you insult him enough. Finally, I have to somehow make this backwater village into something worthy of a god.....a god named Bob. AHHHHHHHHHHH.


    ....


    ....


    Calm down, it''s not the end, remember this is a game. Now I just need to learn it. Ray exited the room and moved to a more vacant spot in the village, "Menu open." In an instant, a panel appeared before Ray displaying his name, stats, skills, titles, health and mana.


    Ray


    Health: 1/1


    Mana: 100/100


    Titles: Hated by Bob, <del>Enemy of the Western Forest, Enemy of Forest Races, Captive Of Goblins</del>


    Skills: Self-Appraisal Lvl Max.


    ...This isn''t promising AND WHAT IS THIS. 1 HEALTH? HATED BY BOB? What kind of hell curse has this game put on me now! I wish I could get more information about this..at that thought a secondary panel appeared in front of Ray with the title being info.


    Bob, the god of life has come to hate you. Jeez, what did you do to him. For your transgressions against him, he has decided to curse you. Health and stats have been set to 1. Mana is ruled by another god and hence it shall remain the same.


    ...


    Damn that old man! How dare he do this to me! I''ve had worse starts, I''ll get through this dilemma and show him who''s the boss of this damn world.  I''ll write a 100 page letter to the game developers about this stupid function. Sigh. Well with such a horrible start I can perhaps try to remake a new account.


    Beta Testers will be limited to only one account.


    Thanks for the late reply game message...Ray could only sigh as he closed the menu. Hmph, This isn''t the end of that, I''ll show that stupid AI that I can survive anything he can throw at me! Well, where should I start, judging from my situation there''s not a lot I can do by myself.. and 1 health. I could die from literally anything.


    The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Ray strolled around the village, observing his surroundings while scratching his head trying to find a way to get out of this mess before being greeted by the village chieftain, Maya. "Good afternoon Mr Ray, me and the rest of the village have been wondering when you were going to perform your duties as a messenger. I sincerely hope you do not disappoint."


    Despite the almost threatening tone Maya used, Ray did not even flinch. Hmm, if I can''t do anything, then maybe it''s time I get people to do things for me. Yes, a plan worthy of someone like me! Hue hue hue.


    Authors Note: Imagine the creepiest laugh you can think. Insert here.


    "Oh Ms Maya, your village must be pathetic to have to live like this! Look at these huts, they are so weak and frail! Even a human child could do a better job!"


    "Hey, don''t insult me and my villagers so casually!"


    "Oh but I will Ms Maya! The place is so rundown and weak, I bet you constantly have trouble with wild animals and enemy attacks."


    At that point, the villagers were surrounding the two humans arguing wondering what was going on with all the commotion.


    "Ugh...it''s true...but this village has managed to survive them all! What can you say about that!"


    Heh, I got her now.


    "Hmph, I am honestly surprised that such a weak faction like yourselves have managed to hold out this long, but Ms Maya. You underestimate the world, do you think that you could survive if one of the other factions decided to go on a warpath!"


    "But, but such a thing would nev-"


    "Nonsense! The world is always changing, you never know when someone might try to take over."


    Maya could do nothing but pout as she looked down to the ground, she had lost the argument.


    I have to hand it to the game devs, they really did a good job on these interactions. They are really real.


    "So Ms Maya, in order to help your village become strong, I will need your help. Not even my god alone will be able to do this, we will need the power of the goblins. Please, help me help you!"


    After a brief moment of silence among the two, Maya could only nod. "I admit, I am not a good leader. But these people are my family...so if there''s anything I can do to help, just ask."


    Hue hue hue. With this plan, I have obtained arms and legs. Now then, it''s time to get to work.


    Authors Note: I think from now on, if I use huehuehue, think of the most evil laugh you can think of.


    To Be Continued

 Chapter 4- A growing power...Goblins?

    Chapter 4- A growing power...Goblins?


    Hello everyone, it''s Ray again. I''m currently stuck in a game with 1 health and permanent 1 stats for the rest of my natural game life. But it''s ok, you know why? Because I''m the greatest! Mwahahahaha! Now I''m stuck in this goblin village and I need to make it strong. Hmm, I wonder where are the other beta testers though. Oh well.


    "Um, Mr Ray?"


    "Huh?"


    "Um, so the goblins are complaining about the amount of work they are doing. Right now, the walls are almost half done. Is there a dire need to have them completed so quickly?"


    Sigh. This is Maya, village chief of the Western Forest Goblins, however she''s not even a goblin herself. She''s just a regular beautiful woman with, I must admit, the most childish of personalities. We got into a few arguments and she is now sort of acting as my secretary, supervising the goblins. This was necessary as they would never listen to an outsider.


    "Ms Maya, we''ve talked about this. The forests are full of wild animals and monsters, the other factions could always come anytime. We need to get the defenses up and running! Anyway, how''s the task I asked you for?"


    "Ah, you mean the gathering of materials? Yes, I have a party of 6 gathering up wood and copper with another 7 goblins ambushing certain paths into the forest. Um, I must ask, why exactly must the goblins be ambushing passersby?"


    "Because I need to learn more about this world and you guys being secluded in this forest is not exactly the most ideal now is it?"


    Maya could only pout and silently nod at that. Damn it, I should have burnt this guy at the stake. First he takes over the village and now I have to work as his damn secretary, I have shamed our ancestors!


    Ray could only slyly grin as he watched the pouting woman wallow in her thoughts and clearly showing themselves on her face. She''s so cute when she''s trying to think. Huehuehue, I wouldn''t mind taking her into my bleep and then bleeping her with bleeping bleeps. CALM YOURSELF RAY, she''s just an AI, she''s just an AI, she''s just an AI...


    Currently, the village is under heavy construction works. Ray has come up with plans to surround the village with walls for a start. The next few things after would be stockpiling food, gathering information and the most important of all. A house for himself...


    I cannot stand another day sleeping on this dirt floor! I know it''s a game and all but it''s WAY TOO GROSS. There''s bugs, it''s hard and i swear I can smell the stink on my clothes. THIS GAME IS TOO REALISTIC!!!


    Ray could only sigh, this game was extremely detailed, from their emotions, the sounds, the sense of touch. But comeon, this is a game. So many complaints, for now though. Let''s see if I can get rid of this stink.


    "Uh, Mr Ray where are you going?"


    "To the nearby lake, before I go handle the other problems in the village I should at least clean myself up..."


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    ...


    WOAH, this lake is amazing, I can actually see the bottom of it. So pure and clean, good job game devs! Truly a water worthy of cleaning the great me!


    One stripping scene later.


    "Ahhhh, this water is so amazing. It feels like it''s healing my very soul!"


    Entered Lake of Cleansing.


    Health and mana regeneration has been increased by 100%


    Diseases and Debuffs cleansed at a rate of 1% per second.


    Eh? There''s a rate? So the longer you soak, the more of a debuff is removed. Cool. WAIT, could it work...menu, info.


    Ray


    Health: 1/1


    Mana: 100/100


    Titles: Hated by Bob, <del>Enemy of the Western Forest, Enemy of Forest Races, Captive Of Goblins</del>


    Skills: Self-Appraisal Lvl Max


    Persuasion Lvl 1


    Hated by Bob is a godly curse and thus cannot be cleansed unless by the god himself.


    Why did they name such a powerful god Bob...damnit game developers. There goes my hopes, not that I had much of it in the first place. Ah, at least I have this wonderful water and this peace and qu-.


    "My my, what have we here!"


    ...Why world, why...


    "A fellow player has found himself lost in the forest I see! Come lads!"


    Ray was rudely awakened from his peaceful thoughts by a loud mouthed brat, a large buff ogre-like creature and a party of bandits behind her. What is this, a manga?


    Authors Note: Well, i try to.


    "Oi oi, who''re you people who dare disturb the great me from his peaceful bath."


    "Hoo hoo hoo, great you say. Well if you''re great then you can call me The Great Queen Elizabeth!"


    That great was unnecessary..


    "Hoo hoo hoo, now then hand over your belongings to my great bandit clan!"


    There''s only 8 people... what''s so great about it... sigh.


    "I''m sorry, but I have nothing to give you. However, I do know a place with lots of great loot and it''s totally free!"


    Hoo, hoo, hoo. We''ve hit the jackpot!


    Hue, hue, hue. I''ve hit the jackpot.


    "Very well then! I shall spare you, in exchange lead us to it um, uh."


    "Ray, call me ray."  Ray immediately stood up, forming a proud pose with his arms on his hips.


    Eh, eh, ehhhh!?


    Author''s note: Insert cliche anime scream here.


    To Be Continued

 Chapter 5- Brain Over Brawn

    Chapter 5- Brain Over Brawn


    Hello everyone, my name is Ray. Currently, I''m being held hostage by a brat and her entourage. Sounds like fun right? Not really.


    Ray, with a brat-sized handprint on his face, has been leading the bandits around the forest in an endless circle. Drawing the anger of his captors.


    "Oi oi oi, what the hell are you trying to pull!" One of the bandits moved in to place a blade on Ray''s neck.  "We''ve been walking in cricles haven''t we!?"


    Ray merely shrugged and spoke with a mild grin. " What proof do you have? How do you know we have been?" he spoke as a matter of factly.


    "Oi don''t bleep with me! Look at that tree! I had my suspicions and marked a cross on it!"


    "Oh very well, you caught me. I''ll lead you guys to the real treasure now."


    "One more time and we won''t go easy on you, you get it!"


    "Yes, yes."


    Pfft, this nameless bandit 1 thinks he can outsmart me. Well, nevermind him. I have bigger fish to fry.


    More walking later...


    "Are we there yet..."


    "No"


    "Are we there yet...."


    "No.."


    "Are we there y-"


    "No, Elizabeth, we will not be there until I tell you we are there."


    Nameless Bandit 2 now came out from the back of the group and shoved Ray to the ground. "Boss, this guy''s just playing us like fools. We should just kill him, take his clothes and sell his body to the cultist clans in the north."


    "Eh? But, I mean."


    "Boss, don''t tell me you''re going soft. We only agreed to follow you because you promised us lots of money you know."


    Ray could only grin to himself as he heard this conversation. "Hue hue hue, losing control of your own men Elizabeth? Don''t worry your pretty head though, the treasure is right up ahead. Through that path." Ray pointed towards a dirt path through a thick overhead of a trees.


    "N, n, nonsense! I am still stronger than all of you, remember that! Anyway, onwards to the treasure!"


    Many grunts of approval could be heard amongst the bandits, even the large one nodded his head. As the bandits all moved forward they noticed something a little off.


    ...


    ...


    "Where''s the prisoner?"


    Some distance away.


    HUEHUEHUEHUE, so easy! If the entire world were like them, it''s going to be so easy! But if this were a manga, I might get instant karma for that.


    Authors Note: Still a light novel you''re safe.


    "Get him! Get him and when you do, kill him!" yelled Nameless Bandit 1.


    As the bandits went to chase, Elizabeth and her large companion could only stand there, contemplating what Ray said. "We...we should go too." At that, they followed after at the very rear of the pack.


    ...


    Ray, after sprinting away for a good 10 minutes, with the bandits following closely behind finally gets trapped, surrounded by the bandits with their swords and knives and his back against a tree. All of them were particularly worn out especially Elizabeth who was panting like mad. She was also being carried by unnamed large guy.


    "F....F.....bleeping finally, for a wimpy little bastard you sure run fast don''t you. B...b...but now, you die."


    "R..R...running is considered a strategy you know and now... you''ve been caught in my t-"


    "JUST DIE ALREADY!"


    At that, nameless bandit 1 rushed forward, knife extended ready to pierce right through Ray.


    *Schink*


    ...


    ...


    "W..w..what?" and with that, nameless bandit 1 has fallen.


    "Huh?!"


    To the surprise of the bandits, a spear had lodged itself in the back of the now dead man and had penetrated all the way through to his front, blood wetting the tip of the spear. Before they could even respond, several more spears fell upon them killing 2 bandits and injuring 1 in the leg. The remaining 2 who could move could only watch in horror as two goblins came from behind them, impaling them upon their spears and immediately chopping off their heads, ending their pain.


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    "Mr Ray, you truly are a pain to deal with." with a familiar voice, Maya appeared from the bushes. With her usual pouty face, she began ordering the goblins to retreat. "Well, we''ve done what you asked. Is there anything else?"


    "Nah, I think I got it from here. You''re dismissed." With a polite nod, Maya returned back to the village with the goblins.


    Ray could only put on his poker face for so long before collapsing on the ground. Holy bleep, that was...a bit more graphical than I expected..it''s almost like it''s real.. I must commend the developers for such amazing detail.


    "Wh..wh...what happened!?!?"


    Ah the main attraction has arrived. "B-b-boss, it was....an ambush...please..help us.." Oh, he''s still alive. Hmm, I could use him.


    "Elizabeth, it seems you are still unaware of how this world works."


    "W-what are you talking about!?! What...have you done! I''ll kill you to avenge my comrades!"


    "Tsk, tsk. Did you truly think they were your comrades?"


    "They were my party members! How dare you!"


    "Nonsense, they were your minions. You heard from them just now didn''t you? You ruled over them with the promise of money. They were never your friends."


    "N..No, it w-"


    "Face it, there was no trust between the two of you. They obeyed you, you were their ruler and they were acting without their ruler. Betrayal it would seem."


    The injured bandit, lying on the ground could only watch as the two argued. "B-boss, don''t listen to him!"


    "..."


    "You know it to be true, don''t you? Now then Elizabeth, I will grant you two options. One, you can take your injured ''friend'' and leave, in exchange you must tell me all that you know about this world. Two, cut off your ties with the bandits and join me."


    "...Why should I join you?"


    "Because I need you!"


    "Eh?!"


    "To Rule the world!"


    Oh, and with that Elizabeth could only put on a face of anger.


    Authors Note: Not really anger but pissed off at Ray''s choice of words.


    "Never!"


    "Eh!?!"


    In an instant, Elizabeth''s large friend picked up the injured man and her to quickly make their escape.


    ...


    ...


    "Is that it?" Maya popped up with the rest of the goblins that were supposed to have retreated.


    "Yes, that''s all that I needed to do. With that, she will start doubting her true nature and she will return one day to confirm it. So, have I proven myself to you yet?" Ray smiled genuinely as he said so.


    This man is truly amazing thought Maya as she went back to before this all began. The scouts had reported a party of bandits including two out of place characters, a young brat and a large ogre creature.


    Authors note: Flashback starts from here.


    "Maya do those two people reported seem like any of the other races you have encountered?"


    "Um, well, not really. We''ve encountered ogres before but this one according to the description had stone skin so I don''t think they ar-"


    "Then they might be people like me, beta testers. Well then, Maya. Get some of the goblin hunters and scouts who can hide themselves well to follow me from a distance away. When I''m in trouble, they will attack those that are attacking me. I emphasize once again, ATTACKING. ME."


    "I may not be the smartest person in the world Mr Ray, but doesn''t this sound extremely dangerous?"


    "It does? I''m trusting you entirely though."


    Maya could only blush and look down. "Eh?!"


    "Well, no point worrying about it now. Just make sure the preparations are in order ok?"


    "Uh, Mr Ray where are you going?"


    "To the nearby lake, before I go handle the other problems in the village I should at least clean myself up..."


    Authors note: Flashback ends here.


    "Yes, you really are amazing. Ray."


    "Oh, the first time you''ve actually called me without Mr."


    "Yes, yes. Now we have more problems that the goblins back home are facing."


    "Ho ho, you guys can''t survive without me can you! Alright, lets go back home!"


    To be Continued

 Chapter 6- The first attack

    Chapter 6- The First Attack


    "Hmmm."


    "Is there a problem Ray?"


    "No, it''s nothing."


    It''s weird isn''t it? I''ve been in this game world for about 4 days now, the village walls are built and the goblins are natural hunters so food is not a problem. But...why can''t I logout....


    Apparently, you get hungry and tired in-game. But at a much slower rate, from what I can guess, the game time is simply much faster than real life. So I think I''ve actually spent 4 days but it''s just been a few hours. I want to leave but this logout button simply isn''t working.


    You cannot logout, please contact an administrator.


    You cannot logout, please contact an administrator.


    You cannot logout, please contact an administrator.


    This damn message won''t even tell me how! I''m adding you to the list of complaints! Oh and some cool things have happened too. For example, I''ve gained a few skills.


    Ray


    Health: 1/1


    Mana: 100/100


    Titles: Hated by Bob, <del>Enemy of the Western Forest, Enemy of Forest Races, Captive Of Goblins,</del> Hero of the Western Forest, Hidden Lord of the goblins, Proficient Schemer.


    Skills: Self-Appraisal Lvl Max


    Persuasion Lvl 4


    Scheming Lvl 2


    Leadership Lvl 1


    Would you like to become a strategist. Y/N


    It seems like there are some additional classes compared to other VRMMOs, if there''s classes like strategist it might be safe to assume there are other classes. I shouldn''t be too hasty. Hmm, maybe I''ll ask another player when I <del>capture </del> find one. For now, it seems like I''ve gotten some new skills related to my actions. Wonder what they affect?


    "Um Ray, you''ve been awfully quiet. Is there something wrong?"


    "Nothing Maya, it seems I''m a little hungry and tired."


    "Ray, you''ve been up for 4 days without food, water or sleep. I''m genuinely surprised a human like you hasn''t died yet."


    But Maya, you''re human too...according to her, she is a special type of human-shaped goblin. I am damn sure she is not, there is no way there can be such a convenient plot development.


    Author''s note: Well...


    "Well, I have a little surprise for you!"


    Oh god, please no. Not a surprise.


    "The house you ordered has been finished!"


    ...


    Oh my god. It''s, it''s, it''s... NORMAL! A regular wooden house, with wooden tables, wooden chairs and a bed...made out of wood...


    "Oi. Maya."


    "Yes!"


    "Why is the bed made out of wood."


    Ray''s voice was the most monotone it could be while Maya''s was cheerful and air-headed. Yes. Air-headed.


    "Isn''t that what all beds are made of?"


    Like I said. Air-headed.


    "Maya...Thanks."


    "You''re welcome!"


    Game is hard.


    Author''s Note: Yes Ray, yes it is.


    "Boss! Boss!"


    The voice belonged to one of the more intelligent scouts, Splort. Due to the name being embarrassing to pronounce, Ray has settled on calling him Lewis. Back to you Lewis.


    "Thanks."


    "Who''re you talking to Lewis?


    "The magical voice in the sky."


    "..."


    "..."


    Author''s Note: ...


    "Anyway boss, me was scouting for attakers like you said. Me saw man with big stick coming to camp."


    Oh, this one''s a bit tricky. Could be an NPC or just a regular player. Hmm.


    "Boss?"


    "Hue hue hue, fear not Lewis. I have a plan! Listen..."


    One plan later.


    "Yes boss. Me go do plan."


    Finishing the conversation Ray would turn around to notice Maya staring at him. "What will I do then?"


    Ray placed his hands on his chin and with a proud voice yelled. "Prepare a feast!"


    "Eh!?"


    Maya could only stare blankly as Ray laughed maniacally whilst walking off towards the direction of where the stranger was last seen.


    Much humming and walking later.


    Ray arrived at a wide open clearing glancing around. Hmm, I was sure he was last seen coming in this direction. Suddenly, he felt a small breeze starting up and before he knew it. A cloaked man with a large staff began menacingly walking towards him.


    Woah, it''s like I''m inside a manga or something. This guy looks seriously cool.


    Author''s Note: Yeah, or something.


    The man stopped and removed the hood of his cloak, revealing a white haired handsome elf. "Stranger, name yourself!"


    "Um, I''m Ray. Who''re you?"


    "I am the one who walks with the wind, the one who scoffs at death, the one who knows all things. I go by many names, but you can call me....the Dark Avenger!"


    With...*Cough* the...*Chuckle" Dark Avenger posing so seriously. His eyes sparkling, his arms on his side in the most prideful of poses. Ray could only show a blank face. My god, he''s a chuunibyou.


    Authors Note: No other word captures the meaning of chuunibyou as good. It means 8th grade syndrome. Where you start thinking you''re special and are super godly amazing.


    "So Mr Ray, you look like a swell young man! Tell me, where can I find the western forest goblins!"


    So sudden! Hmm, time to pry a little more.


    "Uh, what do you plan on doing with the goblins?"


    "Well then Mr Ray, let me tell you a secret! The truth is,.."


    With that the *Giggle* Dark Avenger closed the distance between the two in an instant, in whisper range of him.


    "I work for one of the strongest nations in the west continent. The Kingdom of the Iron Phoenix! They have tasked me, their greatest warrior to vanquish the demons of the west for they are sacrilegiously claiming the holy lands of the west for themselves!"


    Idiot. This guy is an idiot. An idiot and a chuuni. But, from what he told me. He is an enemy. How should I deal with him..


    As Ray was pondering over this, the *I can''t take it* Dark Avenger was brushing his hair and making himself look as fabulous as possible.


    Oh ho ho. I''ve got it. Ray raised his arms to sky, forming the peace sign.


    "I apologize milord! I am but a noob player, new to this game. I humbly ask for your assistance in teaching me your great ways! In return I shall lead you directly to the village!"


    "Oh ho, I see you understand the greatness that is me! Very well, I shall take you as my apprentice Ray. Here I''ve sent you a party invite."


    "Oh, uh, I''m sorry milord but I have no idea how to..."


    "Sigh, Ray, it''s alright. Your master will take care of everything."


    Bear with it...Bear with it...Bear with it...


    "Alright let''s see your menu."


    Ray


    The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    Health: 1/1


    Mana: 100/100


    Titles: Hated by Bob, <del>Enemy of the Western Forest, Enemy of Forest Races, Captive Of Goblins,</del> Hero of the Western Forest, Hidden Lord of the goblins, Proficient Schemer.


    Skills: Self-Appraisal Lvl Max


    Persuasion Lvl 4


    Scheming Lvl 3


    Leadership Lvl 1


    "Oh... 1 health.. Uh."


    "Is there something wrong milord?"


    "Oh, nothing! Nothing at all! Let''s just get out of your overview page. Main Page!"


    Current Options


    Notifications: Off


    Profanity Filter: On


    Status: Beta Tester


    Party Status: Not in one


    Party Invite Status: Dark Avenger(10)


    Report a bug


    Oh, what have we here. Useful.


    "And accepted! There you go!"


    "Many thanks milord, I shall serve you forever."


    "Hmph, stick with me and you''ll go far my slav- student!"


    Oi oi, did you just call me a slave..


    "Come, I shall lead the way to the village, master."


    "Yes let us go!"


    Ray, whilst walking was thinking to himself. So there was a whole menu I missed out, I will have to explore it thoroughly after I deal with this chuuni. After a short walk towards the village Ray stopped abruptly.


    "Master, I''ve forgotten something extremely important! There is a lake here that has a reputation of healing and making the skin beautiful, I would think you''d like the hea-."


    "BEAUTIFUL?!!? RAY, YOUR MASTER COMMANDS YOU TO TAKE HIM TO IT!"


    Too easy...


    Arriving at the river, the *I''ll stop now'' Dark Avenger in a flash, stripped and dived into the lake. Swimming around like a fish who''s found his home. "I can feel it! Ray, you''re doing god''s work!"


    Sure. Whatever. Where are the goblins.


    "Boss, here, here." Lewis whispered from the bushes near the lake.


    "We got signal, regroup. What problem?"


    "He''s not an enemy. He''s just an idiot."


    "Idjut?"


    "Nevermind, take his clothes and return to the village. Tell Maya to look her best."


    With that Ray decided, time to put the finishing blow on this chuuni.


    "Master! The goblins have stolen your clothes!"


    "Whu- What?!!?"


    We now have a very naked handsome elf male running through the forest. Due to the profanity filter being toggled on, we are however not allowed to show his privates. But since this is a light novel without pictures you can''t see it anyway. I apologize for such unnecessary narration.


    Authors Note: Forgive him. Oh, you thought it was me? He''s narrator, I''m author. There''s a difference!


    At the village Maya with Lewis and the scout/hunting goblins were gathered around the feast table(Built by Ray for feasting purposes). with Maya seated at the forefront. "So, that''s all he said?"


    "Yes, boss said look pritty"


    Eh? What does it mean? Is he finally...


    Now we interrupt Maya''s thoughts with the scene of a handsome naked elf male that you still cannot see running into the village, while panting he glared at the goblins around the feast table. "Where are my clothes!!!"


    Ehhhh?!?!!


    Maya could only blush as she bore witness to such an obscene...uh scene. She covered her eyes and shook her head. "What are you doing!"


    "Guh!" The ''Dark Avenger'' could only feel extreme shame as he attempted to cover himself up with his hands.


    "Hue hue hue, so then ''milord'' how does it feel? To be ashamed publicly. "


    "R-r-ray what are you talking about!?"


    "Like I said ''milord'' how does it feel? It was all part of my carefully calculated plan."


    "You betrayed me!"


    "I was never on your side in the first place. Ray, only serves Ray. You came up to my village, told me your plans, showed off your prideful nature. It was but a simply task to make you suffer."


    "G-guh...what do you want!"


    "Haha, relax. Come, take back your clothes and feast!"


    "Eh?"


    One wearing clothes scene later.


    "Ahem... are you going to explain yourself?"


    The Dark Avenger now sat at the table with Ray and Maya. Maya still a bit red from the scene before and Ray was busy biting into an apple.


    Authors Note: Here eat this apple, it makes you seem more of an asshole.


    "Om nom nom gulp, it was all out of necessity. You see, I''ve been literally sent to this village by god."


    "Wh-what?!?! But you''re a fellow player like me!"


    "Yes, but you see. I am a special case, remember that old man in the creation room? He''s a god."


    "WHAT!?"


    "Indeed. He has tasked me with repairing this village and making it strong once again. The moment I saw you coming, I felt that you would destroy all I have worked for..."


    There was a moment of silence among the three, only the sounds of the other goblins eating could be heard. A most sloppy way of eating I must say as well.


    "Look, Ray. I''ve accepted this quest and if I fail it, I will lose fame points. You realize that I can''t possibly afford to lose even 1 point of fame!"


    "What if, I offered you a way to gain an enormous amount of fame points?"


    "What! How!?"


    "Join me and abandon your quest. I have kept this a secret to this village but I shall not publicly declare that I was sent here to conquer this world!"


    A series of gasps came from the three, the goblins not exactly the most intelligent sort could not understand most of the things Ray was saying.


    "The first thing that will come to your minds is impossible. But I''ll tell you, it''s possible. Maya, you''ve seen me in action before and Avenger, you''re strong aren''t you? How could you possibly think conquering the world is hard!?"


    "Ngh, you''re right Ray, I can''t believe I''ve been so stupid. To become famous, I shouldn''t just grind quests to gain fame points. I should conquer this world and make a name for myself!"


    My god he is the simplest man I''ve ever met.. he will be...useful.


    "Maya, I assume you have no complaints?"


    "No Ray, I trust you more than myself at this point."


    "Very well then, I hereby declare that today marks the day where three powers came together to make this world their own!"


    With that, Ray has obtained his first player ally, a chuunibyou elf idiot...


    To Be Continued.

 Chapter 7- Bob the god

    Chapter 7- Bob The God


    Hello, it''s me Ray. I am currently gathering all of my discoveries into a record book made out of, you guessed it, wood. Technology in the West it seems is behind a lot of other nations, according to Ted at least. If you''re wondering who Ted is, he''s the ''Dark Avenger'', after the commotion yesterday with him I decided to give him an easier name. Not without multiple complaints mind you, easily solved with Maya''s influence though.


    ...


    "You will be called Ted and you will like it!"


    "Please, No, NOOOOOO!"


    ...


    I actually felt sorry for him a little, but for now the village and Ted are under my thumb, which brings me to my more immediate worries... I still can''t get home...


    Ray sighed and leaned back on the chair covering his eyes with the back of his hand. "The logout button doesn''t work, i tried reporting a bug but it did absolutely nothing....what if I can''t get back..."


    ...


    Getting up from his table, Ray decided to go outside to get some fresh air. "Mmmm, it''ll be fine. I shouldn''t over think it and just enjoy the game." As he exited the house, he noticed Maya and Ted standing outside, a blank look on their faces.


    "Hey, you two. What''s up?" Ray smiled cheerfully as he walked up to the two, but only received the same blank look and their silence. In fact, there was silence everywhere. The hell?


    The world, it seemed, had stopped moving. The goblins were locked in their working poses and even the environment around had stopped moving. "Not even the leaves are moving..is this some sort of magic?"


    "At least you have some brains, just need to fix that attitude and you might be tolerable." a voice that Ray hadn''t heard in a long, long time resonated throughout the village and with a bright flash of light, a familiar old man dressed in white floated downwards from the treetops.


    "...You.."


    "The name''s Bob, it''s not that difficult you know."


    "Why should I remember the name of the one who got me in this mess!"


    Ray could only glare at the cocky old man whilst the old man merely ignored him. "That is a thing of the past, much as I hate you, I have made a grave mistake and I am here to apologize."


    Ray, with cocked eyebrows, could only fold his arms and stare at this old man. "...I''m listening."


    Bob gave a shy smile and bowed to Ray. "You have my thanks. You know, not many people get to have a god apologize and bow to them, consider yourself lucky."


    "Yeah, yeah. Get on with it, we both know you didn''t come for small talk."


    "Well, I''m not sure if you knew but I am known in this world as Bob the god. I rule over all forms of life and recently I made a deal with your world to send heroes to this world."


    "...Excuse me?"


    Bob with a sigh and a whirl of his cane looked at Ray. "My world is...difficult to take care of. Despite the relative peace that you may have noticed in the west. It is not the same everywhere."


    "Wait, wait. Hold on, I have so many questions. This is going way too fast."


    "..Perhaps, we should get your questions over with first. I''ll explain what I require you to do next after."


    "Ok, so first off. This world is real!?"


    "Yes, it''s very real. This is a real world in an alternate plane from yours. By getting your side to make a ''game'' we used it as a conduit to bring people like you over. It was not easy mind you, whenever one of you comes over, you are leaving your body behind to live inside one of this world''s creation."


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    "Ok...that is a lot to take in.."


    "Yes well, I wouldn''t expect much of a human to understand such matters."


    "Ok, fine. So according to what you said, Maya and the goblins are real life people living in this world. But that means those people I killed..."


    "Yes...they were real."


    The heavy weight of guilt came over Ray, this wasn''t a simple game anymore, it was real. "So, if this is a real world and the players have real bodies. What happens if they die."


    "Nothing to worry about. The bodies are simply gone and we get the person to create a new one, effectively resetting his progress. But in that lies our problem with you..."


    "...From what I gather, I didn''t actually create a body and I''m using my original one..."


    "...Yes, I apologize with all my heart. But if you die, you''re dead..."


    Damn..that hit hard..


    ...


    "So I''m basically bleeped is that it."


    "In a sense yes, there is a way out though."


    "What way!? Tell me!"


    "Well, you become a god."


    "...Excuse me?"


    "Gods are immortal and can freely traverse between realms, lots of good stuff with the position too. The path to become on though is as difficult as you can imagine."


    "...Hit me with your best shot."


    "Well, you see. I used to be a human in this world, but through acts of extreme valor I was able to ascend and become a god. The requirements of becoming a god is to do great feats never done before or surpassing that of old gods. "


    "..."


    "However, it''s not like you need to do it yourself. You can seek help from others and perform a feat worthy of becoming a god. As to what is considered great, it must be something all four continents acknowledge as a great feat."


    "...So old man, what did you do."


    "Well, you know the cultists of the north? They are actually the last survivors of a civilization I destroyed. They were dabbling with things the gods deemed unholy, raising the dead, summoning demons and even creating false god-beings. So, I sorta killed them and became a god!"


    Ray coughed and slammed his fist on the table. What kind of half-assed setting is that!!!


    "Yes, so that''s what happened, so if you want to return to your world. That is the only way I know of."


    "...I understand, sort of. Now can I ask something of you Bob? Can you at least remove this curse you''ve placed on me?"


    "Oh, uh...so you see. There comes another problem..I can''t..because I still sort of uh...hate you..."


    "Are you kidding me!?!?! So the only reason this curse is here is because you still hate me!?!"


    "Uh, um, oh look at the time. A god has to work you know! See ya!"


    In another blinding flash of light, Bob disappeared from Ray and time began to move normally. Ray could only stand there, blankly staring into the sky with his two companions staring at him.


    "Um, Ray is there something wrong?"


    "DAAAAAAMN YOU BOBBBBBBBB!!!"


    To Be Continued

 Chapter 8- The Big Book of Ray

    Chapter 8- The Big Book Of Ray


    Hello everyone...It''s Ray again... I''m not in the best of moods today. Just recently, Bob the god decided to say hello. If you can call hope crushing news a hello... Well, with his explanation I can at least sort of judge where I am now. So, let''s continue carving what I''ve found into this piece of..wood.


    The Big ''Book'' Of Ray


    The date I entered this world was on 4/4/2024, at least in the human world it was. According to Ted, each nation has their own way of measuring time so there is no universal date.


    It seems my body has undergone some changes, I am able to go several days and nights without food or sleep. My previous theory about my real body has been completely overwritten.


    Ted has explained to me that even though there are numerous factions in the west continent, they have formed confederations and republics band together their power. Only a few have actually conquered their way to greatness. Makes my life a bit harder..


    The more notable factions are the Kingdom of the Iron Phoenix that Ted used to serve, the Skurge, the Republic of Jorn and the Confederation of Leaves. It seems even in this world, racism is a thing.


    It is worth nothing that the Iron Phoenix and the Skurge are conquerors, subjugating entire factions at once while the other two seems to be a collection of weak factions that seek to survive in this harsh world.


    Of them all, the Confederation of Leaves seem the most interesting.


    There is no fixed leader, each chief/leader of the faction has simply sworn an oath with each other in a so called ''Unity'' pledge. With their heavy reliance on trust, they seem to be an easy target.


    However, they have managed to deter the larger conquering forces so I must be cautious.


    Ever since Bob explained my situation, I''ve been taking more and more precautions. Since he still hates me...perhaps removal of the curse should be taken into consideration.


    Finally, to our good fortune, Ted knows magic. He''s not a master or anything but an adept at best, he specializes in wind magic which explains his unnaturally ''cool'' intros.


    Mmm, is there anything else? I don''t think so, at least not for now.


    For now, it''s safe to say that my predicament is dire. But for now, my goal is surviving...at all costs...


    Sincerely, Ray the magnificent.


    The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    With a loud sigh, Ray placed the giant slab of wood on one side before rubbing his tired carving arm. "Maybe I should focus on finding some paper around here. Hehe.."


    In the relative silence of Ray''s house, with the hustle and bustle of the village in the background, a familiar couple approached. "Oi Ray! I know you''re in there! Come out now!"


    It was the voice of a familiar brat that held Ray hostage, how could he forget. Surprising, I thought she would take a bit longer to come and face me again. After a short stretching session, Ray proceeded to meet the noisy brat.


    Outside the village gate, Elizabeth and her large friend were waiting. "Oi Ray, stop hiding! I know you''re in there!" Cheh who does he think he is, keeping us waiting.


    "Well, well, look who it is. If it isn''t good ol Elizabeth and her big friend! So what brings you two to my humble abode!"


    "Wha-! You mean, you own this village!" Elizabeth could only stare in awe as she didn''t realize that that pervert could have already gotten himself a village while she herself had not. She figured it would be a while since in most VRMMO''s, owning cities and such required large high leveled guilds. What the hell...


    "Oh, does that mean you don''t even one?! Oh, every time we meet you just don''t fail to amuse me! Come goblins let us laugh at her!"


    Ray couldn''t help but notice Maya glaring menacingly at him. "Oi, what''s the meaning of this."


    Ray quickly ran over to Maya and covered her mouth. "I''m sorry, I know it''s your village but please just go along with it!" he would whisper rapidly.


    Maya only sighed, what trouble had this fool gotten into this time. "Oh very well, you have the goblins under your command. Just for today though!"


    At Maya''s signal the goblins began taunting the two of them, laughing and throwing chunks of mud at them.


    "You dum dum!"


    "You smelly!"


    "You fat and stupid!"


    Well, at least they were trying to. But looks like it worked, the brat began puffing her cheeks out and went red in the face. "I''ve had enough of this! Rolf! Smash through them!"


    ...Huh?


    ROAAAAAR! With a mighty yell, the large man next to Elizabeth began to morph into a beast-like creature. He started to gain more muscle mass, growing even larger than he was before. Hair began to grow rapidly followed by the rapid extending of his canines.


    At this the goblins and Ray went silent as they watched the beast man get into a crouching position gathering power. Then the ground exploded followed by the gate and walls that Ray was standing on.


    Oh shi-!


    Ray and some goblins were blown backwards by the large hulking beast. Somewhere behind the cloud of dust that the beast caused Ray could hear Elizabeth giving orders. "Rolf, capture Ray alive! Kill anything else that gets in the way!"


    "Why me..."


    To Be Continued

 Chapter 9- Just another day as Ray

    Chapter 9- Just Another Day As Ray


    I usually start off with a hello. But that''s when I''m not being chased by a giant were-beast and the possibility of death is very real. So, on with the story!


    "AHHHHHHHHH!" Ray yelled as he sprinted away from the aforementioned beast, rapidly running through the village with the beast close behind. Smashing his way through the village, Maya and goblins in tow. "Goblins protect Ray! Stop that beast!"


    The goblins though as skilled at hunting as they are were not able to subdue the large beast with their spears, it''s hide was apparently incredibly tough. The spears merely bounced off or scratched him a little, this only sought to enrage the beast.


    "OH GOD NO!!!" Ray ducked behind a building in time before the beast attempted to chomp down on him. "Elizabeth! You said you wanted me alive right!?! I surrender, so get your mutt off of me!"


    Elizabeth who was following close-by, had a dead-eyed expression on her face as she began panting heavily. "G-g-give me a moment...to *heavy breathing* ..catch my breath."


    Why are the people I encounter so useless... thought Ray before the beast decided to smash it''s way through the straw house, interrupting his train of thought. "Goddamnit! Can''t I catch a *heavy breathing* break!"


    As Ray continued being chased around the village, a sleepy Ted came walking out of one of the houses. Ray didn''t want him sleeping in the same house as him. Stupidity is contagious.


    "Ah. Good morning Ray." he would say rather nonchalantly.


    "It''s the afternoon idiot! Help me!"


    "Eh? OH GOD WHAT IS THAT?!"


    Soon, Ted joined Ray in his running adventures. You know, for a life and death situation, it feels more comedic than anything. "Ted! What the hell are you doing! Use some magic or something!"


    "I can''t, I''m too scared! I know this is a game and all but it really feels like it''s going to kill me!"


    Well, I mean, it will. "But you''re in a game! What does it matter!"


    "But it looks like it''ll hurt! I hate pain!"


    Cool. Me too, especially when the thing causing the pain kills me for real... "I have a plan! Can you use your wind magic to hide us or something! It''s either that or we both feel very very painful!"


    "Ok! Ok! I''ll do it!" As they both ran, Ted started channeling mana from his body to his hands and began reciting an incantation.  "I call upon the winds of the north, south, east and west!"


    Oh my god, he''s chanting! Shit! This is going to take a while isn''t i-


    Ray suddenly couldn''t move, falling to the ground with his entire body frozen stiff. Huh?! He desperately tried to move, forcing strength into his legs however, he had lost all feeling in his legs.


    "I ask for a loan of the power of the wind!"


    Crap, crap, crap. What the hell is going on! Ray could only lie there as Ted, who had gained a bit of distance from Ray, continued to chant. The beast now loomed over Ray, his shadow covering him. A soft growl could be heard coming from it...


    Ray, with a last burst of numbing strength, yelled to Ted. "Hurry the bleep up!"


    "To shroud us and protect us from harm! Air Cloak!"


    As the jaws of the beast man came down upon Ray, a strong gust of wind was unleashed from Ted''s hands, temporarily stunning the beast. As the beast recovered, it noticed that Ray and Ted were gone.


    It sniffed, trying to find their scent but they were gone. Then he remembered the goblins and the girl with them, they''re gone too. In it''s confusion, it began searching behind buildings and inside of them, unaware that Ray was just helplessly below him. Frozen stiff.


    Oh god, oh god, oh god. I''m alive. Thank you god, that should probably be Bob wouldn''t it? Then again, he never told me if there was a being that ruled over the gods. But I shall give thanks to Bob, for now.


    "Psst, Ray, are you alive?"


    Ray would have liked to punch Ted in the face unfortunately he has come down with a case of numb body disease. "Yes. I''m still alive."


    "Tch. I mean great! Right now, we''re completely hidden from sight and smell. Isn''t wind magic amazing!"


    Did he just get annoyed...? Never mind, we need to subdue the beast before it destroys more of the village. "Ok Ted, I can''t exactly move right now, so as hard as it is to admit it..I leave it to you."


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    "Eh?"


    ...


    The beast after losing track of it''s prey had taken to eating the village''s food supply, mainly the meat while Elizabeth was clumsily hitting it''s back. "How could you lose them! All you had to do was catch him!"


    Sigh...now what...we lost track of every single person in the village. People don''t just disappear! What is this! As Elizabeth turned around to go look again, she suddenly felt arms grab her from behind. It was Ted, with a nervous grin. "Caught you!"


    Elizabeth was temporarily stunned but gave him a smug look as she looked to the beast. "Rolf! Fresh meat!" But, the beast did not respond. Instead, it continued to chow down on the village''s food. "Hey Rolf! Hey! You dumb mutt!"


    Yet he still wouldn''t respond and Elizabeth could only angrily glare at him.


    "It''s useless, he''s currently isolated from us. I used Air Cloak to make sure he only can smell and see things that I want him to see. Pretty useful eh?" Ted said rather smugly.


    Wow, this guy is cocky... But still, without my beasts I''m kind of helpless...who knows what they''ll do to me...I''m..I''m..


    With that Elizabeth began crying softly while Maya, who was watching Ted carry out Ray''s plan of kidnapping the beast owner, could only look at him with disgust. "Enemy of womenkind..."


    Ted began to panic a little, "Hey, hey. It''s ok, it''s ok, we won''t hurt you. Eh, um...I think at least." That only served to make her begin wailing as well as causing Maya to glare him down. Ray only sighed, well at least the plan worked. Judging by the way Air Cloak work, it seems you can use the wind to deny certain things such as sound and smell from reaching a particular person. A powerful spell indeed, looks like Ted isn''t as worthless I thought, though I think Maya has some dislike of him.


    After some consoling from Maya and Ray, Elizabeth stopped crying and calmed down her beast. Returning him back to his slightly less intimidating form of a large human.


    "Well then, now that you aren''t trying to kill me, what were you trying to do in my, uh I mean Maya''s village." Ray was almost about to say that it was his village, but a ''gentle'' reminder in the form of a slap from Maya reminded him of it.


    "...I just wanted to say sorry..but, but, you came out and started insulting me! So-so-so I wanted to teach you a lesson!"


    Elizabeth said with a matter-of-fact expression on her face, meanwhile Maya and the goblins slowly turned towards Ray, glaring at him intensely.


    Ray felt chills go down his spine. Shit, I didn''t actually think she was the type to say sorry...Oh god. "Uh, I mean, that is.. Um...I''m sorry?"


    One goblin pile driver and Maya punch later.


    "Excuse Mr Ray for his horrible attitude. I am Maya, I am the leader of this village. We hope you will accept our apologies for listening to this fool." Maya sincerely bowed, her hand on Ray''s head, forcing him to kneel before Elizabeth.


    "Mmmm...ok!" she smiled, enjoying the state that Ray was currently in. He sort of deserved it after all.


    I know you''re happy and all, but I''m dying here...please have some mercy...


    "Ah Elizabeth, there''s one last thing I need you to do."


    "Hmm? What''s that?"


    "Clean up your mess or you''ll get a taste of my Maya punch." Maya clenched her fist tight while she looked down on Elizabeth, a strong blood lust coming out from her.


    Elizabeth lost all the feeling in her legs as she looked at Maya and quietly bowed. "Yes, I''ll fix it..."


    "Very good! Don''t worry, I''m sure you can fix it all in no time!" Maya''s blood lust quickly dissipated and she gave off a cheerful smile.


    With that, the party of 3 plus goblins grew into a party of 4 plus goblins. Ray could only smile in his beaten state, at least now, he would have some company.


    To Be Continued


    Authors Note: I''m thinking I should change the title to the misadventures of Ray instead. If anyone still reading is against this, feel free to let me know. The original goal of politics, magic and etc will happen, just later.

 Chapter 10- Time to take a trip

    Chapter 10- Time to Take a Trip


    Hello everyone, it''s the author. Ray is busy packing his bags, it seems he has grown tired of this place and is leaving for some grea- Ow.


    Hello everyone, sorry for the interruption. It''s Ray talking now, yes, I am packing my bags. No, it''s not that I''ve grown tired of this place. But it seems that since my fall from ''heaven'', I haven''t actually looked around this game world. Ironically, even though everything tries to kill me. It''s still quite a beautiful world. Don''t worry, you''re coming along.


    "Ok Lewis, you''re the boss now. Take care of things while me and Maya go scouting around the area."


    "Ok boss! Trust goblins! We love village!"


    Ah, I do believe Lewis is actually the most reliable of the bunch here. I suppose Maya has her uses as well, but still. As a leader she lacks certain traits, like perhaps being me. Hue hue.


    "But why can''t I go!? I want to follow!"


    "Because you need to stay behind and repair what you broke!"


    "But Rolf can do it by himself, let me go with you please!"


    "Elizabeth, you''re getting on my nerves here...Do I need to show you how strong my punch is?"


    "N-no. I''ll pass! I''ll be a good girl!"


    "Yes, yes you are. Now be an even better girl and go help Rolf, small fingers are needed for delicate work."


    Good god, Maya has certainly learnt some ''persuasion'' skills. Reminder not to mess with her on this trip. Alright, food, water, a sack to put them in and I''m all good. Maya apparently didn''t need any such thing as she had learnt how to feed off the land so to speak. I really hope she doesn''t pull off one of those goblin hunt and kill techniques in front of me, it would give me nightmares.


    "You know Maya, you don''t have to follow me. You can stay and take care of the place."


    "Well, it''s the first time I''m able to leave the village and also after being with you a while. You need a firm hand to pull you back."


    "Well well, little Maya is all grown up. You sure, you don''t need to pack up anything?"


    "Yep! The goblins have trained me well, I could show you one of their 200% certain death techniques!"


    "Uh, let''s not ever use that unless we''re in trouble, ok?"


    You know, after many years of playing RPGs and various fantasy chess type games. Goblins are usually like pawns or beginner grinding monsters. These goblins are pretty damn strong, natural selection must''ve thrown their brains somewhere though since they are lacking in that department.


    "No promises, you never know what kind of scary things are out there. I''ll be there to protect you!"


    Well, that puts some of my heart to ease. I''ve gotten accustomed to being on the cusp of death, it''s basically like regular life. 1 health is not so bad, so far, hitting my leg on the table. Getting punched by Maya. I''m still alive. Theoretically, I should be dead after all those but I''m not.


    Authors note: Still need you for the rest of the story.


    It feels like some great being in the sky wants me to live on for reasons I do not know. But I won''t argue, I like living and today, I''m going to enjoy life!


    "Come Maya, we''re going to Ted''s starting city first. It''s apparently called Rockhelm and there are a lot of other people like me there."


    "People like you?"


    Oh right, Maya doesn''t know we come from a different world. She just knows we''re strange people and I''m the strangest one because I fell from the sky.


    "People...similar! To me!  Yes, that''s right. People as smart and great as me!"


    "Ah..."


    Maya could only give a dead-panned stare at Ray, may nature grant him the ability to be humble. In silence, Maya clasped her hands together and prayed silently for him.


    Thus, the two left the village and went along their way. This world was quite different from the real world, there were natural animals like deer and all except more mutated in some way. For example the deer here had 6 legs and were highly aggressive. As Ray found out the hard way,.. his back may never bend the same.. alongside them were RPG monsters as well. Things such as slimes, goblins, griffons. It''s like they took earth and threw an RPG world onto it.


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    Other than the local wildlife, the landscape was full of trees, lakes and mountainous areas. A very clean, beautiful place. According to Ted and Elizabeth, they found the game extremely beautiful and realistic. Little do they know it''s just another world, I''m sure people will eventually figure it out. Not everything can be attributed to epic game design.


    As we come back to our two favorite characters, after a 2 hour trek under the shade of the trees, they take a break. Ray pulling out apples to eat while Maya had gone off hunting.


    "Even though we''ve been walking for so long, it''s like I can keep walking. I feel...great and also hungry." Ray bit into his apple, definitely tastes like a normal apple but it is incredibly tasty.


    "Help! Someone help!" A strange man''s voice came from deeper in the forest, clearly in distress.


    Oh what the hell?  Someone''s in trouble, is it a time for the great Ray!?! Cue action music anddddddd nope. Not my problem.


    Ray went back to eating his apples and waiting for Maya until...


    "Ray! Help!"


    "Someone help us! We''re dying!"


    ...Damn it Maya.


    As Ray raced through the forest, he was greeted by a most awkward scene involving Maya and Strange Man. They were both stuck inside a large pit and around the pit were strange creatures, with one eye, four arms and two legs. The UI told me they were called QuadClop(15), at level 15 and with the large pack surrounding the pit. It was probably safe to say, if I ran in there I''d be dead.


    The pack was staring down at the two, drooling profusely. I think it''s safe to say, they want to eat them. Oooh, I can use that.


    Ray, grabbing an apple from his sack, proceeded to throw it at one of the QuadClop''s head. A light bonk noise was heard as it tumbled slowly towards their feet. The entire pack of them turned towards the apple and immediately began diving for the apple, wrestling and punching their way through each other.


    Seems they don''t take sticking with the pack very closely, well if it''s just like this. Take it all! Ray flung more apples far away from the pit and the pack took off, fighting and trampling over each other as they went on their violent way.


    Ah, if only all things could be solved with food. Life would be much ea-


    "Ray! They''re gone, come pull us out!"


    "Help us!"


    Sigh, can''t I think in peace at least.


    Authors Note: No. Suffer.


    Ray found a long thick vine and lowered it down to the two and letting them climb up. "Quickly before they come back."


    As soon as the two climbed up, they immediately ran for it. Heading towards the dirt path Maya and Ray were travelling on before. As soon as they got some distance between them and the QuadClopses, Maya and Strange man dropped to their knees, too tired to run anymore.


    "I think we''re far enough from those monsters, we can take a break if you guys want." Ray did not feel as tired as normally as he should have been and only stopped for the two to rest.


    Hmm, it seems that my body is getting stronger, although the stats display still says everything including endurance is at 1. Hmm, maybe I don''t follow all the game rules...


    "I-I, *huff* thank you brave man, tell me what is your name."


    "Oh, well then, my name is Ray and this is Maya we come from a village in the west."


    Best not to reveal too much about where we come from.


    "Ah my saviors, if you hadn''t come in time I might have been eaten by those hideous creatures. I am Augustus Lamonia of the great Lamonia merchant company. I would like to invite you two to my humble abode in Rockhelm, which is just a short distance from here."


    "Ah, we were just heading there. We would be honored to accept your hospitality."


    "Very well, I will lead the way! Follow me my saviors!"


    Ah, nothing says a great start like a rich merchant offering us a place to stay.


    But little did Ray know, fate had other plans for him...


    To Be Continued

 Chapter 11- Life in the city

    Chapter 11-Life in the City


    Hello everyone, it''s Maya! I figured if Ray gets to say hello to you all, I also want to! But um...I don''t really know what to say.


    Authors Note: Your time''s up, on with the story!


    No, wait plea-!


    ...


    "So Augustus, tell me. What is the city of Rockhelm like?"


    Ray and his new friend, Augustus Lamonia were travelling side by side along the dirt road to Rockhelm with Maya walking closely behind them, listening.


    "Well...where to begin? Rockhelm is a major city, considered one of the most beautiful and holds the famous Magic Academy of the Six Circles. In fact, the Academy came first, the city was just simply built around it to accommodate the numerous visitors it got."


    That amazing huh? I should visit it, but I probably can''t learn any magic with my crappy stats. Now that I think about it, recently I haven''t been able to open up menu anymore. Normally just thinking it would work, I can still see monster names and levels though. Ugh, what''s going on with me.


    "Um Ray?"


    "Ah sorry, I was just thinking that maybe I should go and visit it since you made it sound so amazing!"


    "Don''t worry about that, while you''re staying in the city I''ll personally show you the best sites in the city. In fact, you can see the city walls right now, look."


    Ray, looking into the distance could make out a city quite literally glowing gold.  "Uh....is that a gold city?"


    Augustus, with a chuckle, looked to Ray. "No, no. It''s just the local illusion mages practicing their abilities. Seems like they decided to make the city golden today."


    Illusions eh? Cool.


    "Illusions are one of the more looked down upon magics though. Since it''s considered cheap and in the kingdom it''s more honor and glory, you understand?"


    "Yeah I get it. But when it comes to war, all is fair, isn''t it?"


    With a hearty laugh, Augustus slapped Ray on the back. "You understand well! I''m glad my savior is such an understanding person!"


    Ouch... my back..


    ...


    Arriving at the gate entrance, a long chain of caravans and people greeted the party of three. "Ugh, we have to wait in line it seems."


    "No need to fret Ray, we merchants have our ways." with that Augustus left Ray and Maya and went up ahead.


    "...Hey Maya, what do you think about him?"


    Upon turning around, Maya had the look of a child''s. Looking up in awe at the city walls and the long lines with eye''s sparkling and full of curiosity.  "...Amazing.."


    Maybe I shouldn''t disturb her just yet...


    However, Ray couldn''t resist patting her on the head. Too cute.


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    ...


    In a short while, a guard on horseback tottered up to the two, letting them cut the queue. With a few angry glances and boos from the line, the two had safely entered Rockhelm.


    "Oh, I figured the whole city would be glamorous but this is actually quite a normal scene."


    It was a typical scene from most RPGS, Ray and Maya were in the center of the city, surrounded by taverns, merchant shops of everything you can name with convenient signposts pointing to paths that lead to other districts. However, even if it was typical to Ray, Maya just couldn''t control her excitement.


    "Ray, it''s spitting out water! Ray, the entire ground is covered in stone! Ray, what do those do!"


    At least she''s enjoying herself...but hey hey, too many questions.


    "Excuse me sir and ma''m, are you two Mr Ray and Ms Maya?"


    Turning around, Ray saw a thin old man, dressed in an all white butler suit. "Bob!?!"


    "No sir, I am Reginald, butler to the Lamonia household. Judging from both of your strange attire I assumed you were the people master Augustus request for."


    Ray was still wearing his home clothes, regular T-shirt and Jeans while Maya was wearing her druid clothings. Making them stand out quite a bit from the others.


    "Ah, yes. We are said people. Where''s your uh, master?"


    "Yes, he''s asked us to clean you up and dress you in more...regular clothes."


    Did I just get insulted by an old man that looks like Bob... it seems the curse of hate shall never leave me until the end. But I''m not that dirty! I wash regularly!


    "Well then sir, if you''ll follow me to the mansion we can get started."


    ...


    Holy shit, I knew he was rich, but this is like an obscene level of wealth. The house was sparkling in the sunlight, probably because it was solid gold. Yes, solid gold. What the hell. It could be illusion magic, but after touching it, I am extremely sure these are solid gold bricks. Gold. Solid Gold. Solid Gold Bricks... Gah! Control yourself Ray, you can''t just go stealing pieces of another person''s house..but maybe..


    "Excuse me Master Ray?"


    "Ah!!!!! I wasn''t thinking anything!!"


    "...Ok sir?"


    "Maya! Say something!"


    "Uhbuhrugfuhfiurugh"


    It seemed Maya had gone into a daze, she simply could not comprehend what was happening anymore. From the butler, to the solid gold..solid gold...soli- control yourself Mr Narrator.


    Authors Note: Solid gold, solid gold.. Buh!


    Great, looks like I''m all alone here.


    "...Let''s just get this done."


    "Uhburghrugrhg"


    "Yes sir..."


    To Be Continued

 Chapter 12- Is there such a thing as TOO rich?

    Chapter 12 - Is there such a thing as TOO rich?


    Hello everyone it''s Ray, so we just entered a gold mansion. Ted told me that life in the city was great but this is...a bit much? Well, hopefully they won''t mind if I pinch a little off of them. Hue hue hue, you never know...


    Last we left off, Ray and Maya got invited to Augustus'' lavish mansion because he wanted to thank them for saving his life and well, I don''t think lavish is good enough to describe it.


    Various leathers and furs cover the walls, rich and well, fluffy. The inside wasn''t all gold, it was painted purple and blue with various expensive looking decorations such as the...diamond chandelier. I think there''s a limit to how rich you can get in life before you start losing interest, seems Augustus was doing extremely well for himself.


    Have I accidentally rescued some god of wealth or something? I seriously hope so. Bob, if there''s any wish I can get, please let this man give me some of his wealth.


    "Um, excuse me sir? Is there something wrong?"


    "Ah nothing, lead the way mr butler."


    "It''s...Reginald...sir."


    With a sigh, the party of three were led up a series of winding staircases to a large, grand room, filled with all sorts of luxuries including four beds with clothes placed on them.


    "This is the guest room and these are some of the clothes that the master has asked us to pick out for you. Please change out of your filthy drags and try them on until you are satisfied. When you are ready, please knock on the door twice."


    With that, the butler left the room. Ray could swear that he was looking down on them, but then again maybe it''s a cultural difference. But still, isn''t this like being held hostage?


    "R-r-ray...I don''t know what to wear...it''s all so...pretty..."


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    Then we have Maya, indifference unleashed. Maybe it''s not such a big deal after all...


    "Well, let''s just try them on until you find one you like."


    "Ok!"


    It was at this moment that Ray regretted his decision because what awaited him was a long and arduous journey through closets of clothes on a harsh quest to find the right clothes.


    "I want to try that one!"


    "Oooo, that one looks nice too!"


    "I think this is a bit loose, maybe a bit smaller."


    ...


    Bob just take me now, I can''t go on. Ray had found some imperial-looking clothing, with a long robe and black vest with similar-colored long pants. In Ray''s egotistical opinion, he looked better than the clothes. Now if only Maya could just hurry up with her choice.


    "Ray! How do I look?"


    Maya had found a simple dress, light blue and covered in golden flowers and was spinning around, trying to show off her latest find.


    "Wow! It looks great! Let''s go with this one!"


    "Really?!"


    Hell no. But we''ve spent way more than enough time in here, i''m actually suffocating under the pile that you''ve amassed. Let''s just go.


    The two were brought outside the mansion where a horse-drawn carriage awaited them with their new friend seated comfortably inside.


    "The carriage will bring you all around the city, do behave yourselves in front of the master."


    Mr Butler then left us to go do whatever he does and is it just me or is he being terribly rude to us. "Mr Ray, Ms Maya please come inside, the carriage will take us wherever you wish."


    Welp, let''s hope nothing else goes wrong today.


    Authors Note: :3


    To Be Continued