《Chronicles of the Lost [LitRPG]》 Chapter One The frosty air sent my hand reaching instinctively for the duvet, but I didn¡¯t find it. Instead, my fingers grazed something unfamiliar. A jolt of confusion shot through me as I opened my eyes, shaking off the grogginess. The world around me was wrong¡ªno soft bed, no familiar walls. Instead, I lay on the cold, damp ground of a forest. I sat upright, reaching up to brush a tangle of twigs from my hair, fingers snagging in the wavy mess. It was heavy with damp from the forest floor. My eyes darted helplessly over the alien landscape around me. Colossal trees towered above, their immense trunks reaching towards a canopy so dense it blocked out most of the sky. Faint beams of light filtered through the leaves, revealing not one but two moons hanging in the night sky. The light from them scattered silver patterns across the forest floor. ¡°What¡­ the¡­ f¡ª,¡± I whispered, my voice trembling. I hugged myself, as the chill wind sliced through my thin pajamas. Stumbling to the base of a large tree, I crouched down, trying to shield myself from the cold. The silence was deafening. No rustling leaves, no chirping birds¡ªjust the sound of my unsteady breathing. My thoughts spiraled. If this was a dream, it was the most vivid and terrifying one I¡¯d ever had. A flicker of blue light caught my eye, its glow cutting through the surreal fog clouding my mind. I froze, blinking hard to clear my vision, but the light persisted, coalescing into a floating box right in front of me.
Welcome, descendant of Salodar! You have been selected at random to return to Aetlantas. You will now be integrated into the system. This process will take 48 hours to complete, at which point you will have full system access. Current progress: 47:58:17.
¡°What the¡­¡± I said, staring at the message. A timer appeared at the bottom of the box, its numbers ticking down steadily. I rubbed my eyes and even slapped my cheeks, but the glowing message didn¡¯t disappear. Waving my hand through the air, I tried to swat it away, and to my surprise, the box minimised. A small countdown timer appeared in the corner of my vision instead. ¡°Okay, this is weird. A really, really weird dream.¡± I muttered, trying to stay calm. Another gust of wind sent shivers through me. ¡°But then, if I¡¯m dreaming, why am I so cold?¡± I hugged my knees to my chest, my teeth chattering. My bare feet were already numb and bluish from the cold. I tried to process what was happening, and another notification popped up.
Condition: Cold. (-1 Physical, -2 Mental). Recommendation: Seek warmth.
¡°I refer to my original comment,¡± I told the air, waving my hand in irritation to close the box, ¡°What the hell is going on?!¡± My teeth chattered uncontrollably as I hunkered down against the tree¡¯s base, hugging my knees to my chest and rubbing my hands together to try to stop them from turning into icicles. The screech that tore through the air shattered the silence like glass. My entire body froze, in fear as the sound echoed through the forest, reverberating in my bones. Far above, the canopy exploded with movement as a flurry of wings erupted, scattering startled birds into the night sky. My chest caught, as my heart pounded so loudly it might break through my ribcage. Whatever made that sound was out there, somewhere, and it was close. ¡°What the fuck was that?!¡± I scrambled to my feet, not waiting to find out, and bolted in the opposite direction, the forest floor tearing at my soles as I ran. Twigs snapped beneath me, and sharp rocks jabbed into my heels, but I didn¡¯t dare slow down. Panic surged through me, and the forest blurred as I ran, branches clawing at my arms and face. ¡°This isn¡¯t real!¡± I yelled, half-hysterical. ¡°Why am I not waking up?!¡± I pinched my arm, hard enough to make my eyes water. The pain was sharp, undeniable, and real. This wasn¡¯t a dream. Another glowing notification appeared, floating obnoxiously in my field of vision and causing me to stumble.
Condition: Elevated heart rate. (-1 Physical). Recommendation: Slow down to conserve energy.
¡°Oh, slow down, huh? Sure, let me just take a leisurely stroll while some nightmare thing chases me through the murder forest!¡± I swatted at the message, frustration spilling over as I pressed onward. Adrenaline kept me moving even as my legs burned and my lungs felt like they were on fire. I stumbled over a root and skidded on my knees, scraping my palms on the rough ground. For a moment, everything was still. My breath came in ragged gasps, and my body trembled with exhaustion. Looking back over my shoulder, I saw nothing but darkness. Whatever it was hadn¡¯t followed me¡ªat least not yet. I staggered to my feet, wiping the dirt off my hands. The countdown timer in the corner of my vision ticked down steadily. Forty-seven hours, forty-six minutes. Somehow, I knew I had to survive until this so-called ¡°integration¡± was complete. What happened at the end of that, I had no idea. ¡°Okay, Harriet,¡± I told myself, forcing steadiness into my voice. ¡°You¡¯ve played survival games. You¡¯ve got this. Step one: find food and shelter. Step two: don¡¯t die.¡± With that half-hearted pep talk, I trudged forward into the unknown, every shadow around me making me wonder at what might be lurking just beyond my sight. Every so often, the system would send me another helpful notification.
Condition: Poor nutrition. (-2 Physical). Recommendation: Seek food immediately.
¡°No kidding. I skipped dinner before I fell asleep, so I¡¯m starving,¡± I clutched my growling stomach. ¡°What next? Are you going to tell me I¡¯m tired too?¡± I scanned the forest floor for anything that might help me survive. Hunger gnawed at my belly, sharp and insistent, but my feet ached so badly I could barely think straight. I limped forward, wincing with each step, and kept my eyes peeled for something¡ªanything¡ªI could eat. As I pushed through a dense patch of underbrush, a faint glimmer caught my eye. I crouched cautiously, my heart pounding. A bush covered in dark red berries stood out among the greenery, its fruit almost too perfect. I hesitated, knowing better than to eat random berries in the wild, no matter how hungry I was. They did look pretty juicy though¡­ ¡°Don¡¯t die,¡± I muttered to myself again as I reached for a cluster of berries, stopping when a familiar blue box appeared in my vision.
Talent unlocked: Basic Identify. Would you like to activate this talent? Yes/No.
¡°¡®Basic Identify¡¯? Like, identify what¡¯s edible? That¡¯s¡­ actually useful. Thanks, I guess.¡± I focused on the prompt, and the word ¡°Yes¡± pulsed faintly, as though responding to my thoughts. My vision shifted, and some weird runes or hieroglyphics hovered over the plants around me. They slowly shifted and changed into English.
Sorrowberries: Toxic. Consumption may result in paralysis and gastrointestinal distress. Taste: sweet but acidic
¡°Oh, for¡ªof course they¡¯re poisonous.¡± I threw my hands in the air. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t they be?¡± I turned away from the berries, ¡°Yeah, no thanks. Next.¡± Scanning my surroundings, my gaze eventually fell on a ring of mushrooms growing at the base of a tree.
Forest Mushroom: Edible. Provides minimal nutrition. Taste: bitter
¡°Minimal nutrition? Well, beggars can¡¯t be choosers, I guess.¡±Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. I picked one of the mushrooms and nibbled its edge. The taste made me gag, but I forced it down. As I ate, a new prompt appeared.
Talent unlocked: Basic Survival Instincts. Would you like to activate this talent? Yes/No.
¡°Basic survival? Is that supposed to make me feel better?¡± Sighing, I again focused on the word ¡®yes¡¯, which pulsed faintly, and the notification disappeared. I popped another mushroom in my mouth, grimacing at the terrible flavour. ¡°Ugh. Well, let¡¯s hope that means I don¡¯t end up dying in the middle of¡­ wherever the hell this place is.¡± I looked around the forest floor, this new ability casting a faint glow over every nearby plant. "Edible" notices reassuringly labeled the mushrooms I had just eaten, while toxic warnings practically screamed danger from the Sorrowberries. I kept moving, occasionally stopping to pick an edible mushroom and put it in my pyjama pocket for later. My feet throbbed with each step, and the biting cold continued to sap my strength. Hunger clawed at my belly despite the disgusting snack I had forced down. The silence of the forest pressed in on me, broken only by the crunch of twigs beneath my bare feet and my own occasional muttered complaints. I glanced at the timer in the corner of my vision: 47:23:06. Still over 47 hours left of¡­ whatever this was.
Condition: Cold. (-1 Physical, -2 Mental). Recommendation: Seek warmth immediately.
¡°Still cold? No shit, Sherlock!¡± I growled, My teeth were chattering again, and the thin fabric of my pajamas did nothing to protect me from the biting wind. I needed shelter, and soon. After what felt like hours of stumbling through the trees, I spotted a massive fallen log lying across the forest floor. Its hollowed-out base looked just large enough to crawl into. ¡°Not exactly a five-star hotel,¡± I muttered, peering inside. The air smelled of damp rot, and the interior was dark and uninviting. The idea of crawling into a dark hole didn¡¯t exactly scream safety, but it was better than freezing to death in the open. With a deep breath, I crawled inside, wincing as my knees scraped against the rough bark. Once tucked inside, I curled up as tightly as possible, wrapping my arms around myself in a desperate attempt to conserve warmth. The system chimed again, its clinical tone feeling almost smug.
Status Update: Shelter acquired. Condition: Cold (-1 Physical, -2 Mental) remains active but stabilised.
¡°Stabilised. Fantastic. I feel so much b-better now. I¡¯ll just ignore the fact that I f-feel like an icicle.¡± My body trembled uncontrollably as the cold seeped into my bones. The log did little to block out the cold, and my body trembled uncontrollably as exhaustion dragged me down. I closed my eyes, desperate for sleep, even though every instinct screamed at me to stay alert. I finally drifted off, but my dreams were chaotic and fragmented¡ªshadows chasing me, glowing symbols swirling in the dark, and the unrelenting sound of a timer ticking down. When I woke, the faint rays of dawn filtered through the cracks in the log. My entire body ached from shivering through the night. As my vision cleared, a new notification filled my view.
Status screen unlocked. Condition and attributes trackers unlocked. Title, Class, and Profession systems have been integrated. Information on gained Titles, Classes, and Professions will become available via your Status screen.
I groaned, rubbing my temples as the floating text refused to go away. ¡°Great. More game mechanics. Because that¡¯s exactly what I need right now.¡± Swiping the notification aside, I crawled out of the log. My muscles screamed in protest, and when I put them on the cold ground, my feet felt like raw, shredded pulp. Another notification blinked into view, its clinical tone only adding to my irritation.
You have been awarded 2 Attribute Points. Distribute points to adjust your Physical, Mental, or Social Attributes.
I frowned, the glowing words both confusing and tantalising. ¡°Wait, distribute points? Like leveling up in a game?¡± A circle of blue light flashed in the top left of my vision, and I poked it, opening what looked suspiciously like a video game character sheet. My name hovered at the top, followed by a series of stats that made me wince.
Name: Harriet Price Age: 24 Type: Human (Level 0) Titles(0/1): None Classes(0/1): None Professions(0/1): None Talents(2/5): Basic Identify, Basic Survival Instincts Condition: Cold (-1 Physical, -2 Mental), Poor nutrition (-2 Physical, -1 Mental), Stress (-3 Mental, -2 Social, -1 Physical), Low muscle density (-3 Physical, -2 Social) Attributes: Vitality: 44/50 Physical: 10(-7) Mental: 14(-6) Social: 7(-4) Luck: 10 Available Attribute Points: 2 Experience: 0/100
¡°Low muscle density? Ouch. That¡¯s just mean¡­ and what¡¯s this about experience? Why¡¯s that zero?¡± I hovered over the Physical stat, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ve got two points. Physical¡¯s in the toilet, but Mental isn¡¯t much better. Social? Useless out here¡ªI¡¯m not exactly going to be making friends with the mushrooms.¡± With a resigned sigh, I tapped on Physical, watching the number tick up slightly. The second point I allocated to Mental, hoping it might help me think clearly.
Physical: 11(-7) Mental: 15(-6)
¡°Not much of a difference, but it¡¯s better than nothing.¡± A faint warmth spread through my limbs, subtle but comforting, as the changes took effect. The system chimed again with another of its customary unhelpful reminders.
Condition: Poor nutrition (-2 Physical, -1 Mental). Recommendation: Locate sustenance immediately.
¡°Yeah, I know. Believe me, I know.¡± I glanced toward the corner of my vision, where the timer continued its relentless countdown. 40:21:06. ¡°Still over 40 hours,¡± I muttered, my voice hoarse. ¡°What¡¯s the endgame here, system thingy? What¡¯s integration? Is this some weird game? Am I in a coma? Was I kidnapped? What even is this place?¡± I rubbed at my arms, to try and coax some warmth into my body as the morning sun weakly filtered through the towering trees. The countdown in the corner of my vision steadily ticked on, oddly soothing, like a metronome keeping time in a symphony of silence. Except the silence wasn¡¯t comforting. It was oppressive. No birds chirped, no insects buzzed. All I could hear was my own ragged breathing and the faint creak of swaying branches high above. I had almost managed to convince myself that the screech from last night was my imagination¡ªor at least, that whatever made it had gone far, far away. But the sensation of being watched, that prickling on the back of my neck, hadn¡¯t gone away. I shifted my weight lower, peering out past the trees that encircled the clearing. For a moment, all seemed calm. Then I saw it. The creature stood at the edge of the clearing, its silhouette blotting out a patch of sunlight. It was massive, nearly the size of a horse, with a hunched posture that made it look almost humanoid, though its elongated limbs suggested otherwise. Its skin¡ªor was it scales?¡ªwas a mottled grey-green that blended unnervingly well with the forest floor, and its face¡­ My stomach dropped just looking at it. Large antlers with multiple prongs that came to razor sharp points grew from its forehead, and as its mouth opened slightly, rows of needle-like teeth were revealed as it sniffed the air.
Creature: Greater Leshi Danger level: Moderate Recommendation: Flee
Dismissing the helpful box informing me that I was in terrible danger, I slowly hunched down, my breath caught in my throat. It¡¯s just looking around. It doesn¡¯t know I¡¯m here. It doesn¡¯t know I¡¯m here. But then its head jerked, and its gaze locked onto mine. ¡°Shit!¡± I didn¡¯t wait to see what it would do. Scrambling back into the log, I kicked a hole out of the other side, ignoring the sharp pain as my bare feet crashed through the rotten wood. I scrambled out the other side of the log, hoping it would create some obstacle to the thing coming after me. The creature let out a screech¡ªlouder, more piercing than the one last night¡ªand launched itself forward. I didn¡¯t think, I just ran.
Condition: Elevated heart rate. (-1 Physical). Recommendation: Slow down to conserve energy.
¡°Are you kidding me?!¡± I screamed at the system, swiping wildly at the air until the window minimised. The pounding of my feet matched the drumbeat of my pulse. I dodged between the towering trees. A branch caught my arm, tearing at the thin fabric of my sleeve, but I didn¡¯t stop. The screeching behind me grew more frantic, the sound drilling into my skull as I ran away from the terror that chased me. The adrenaline kept me running even though I had no energy, even though I was bone cold and my feet were sliced to ribbons. I ran and ran, swiping away notifications without reading them in order to keep running without tripping as my vision became partially obscured by their glowing blue. I stumbled and fell to my knees, having nothing left to fuel my escape. My breaths came as ragged wheezing, and my heartbeat thudded loudly in my ears. All was quiet again. ¡°I¡¯ll just rest here for a bit¡­¡± The forest stretched endlessly around me, a maze of towering trees and dense underbrush. I scanned my surroundings; my Identify talent highlighted potential food sources. Identify labeled most of the flora with grim warnings, but I found enough scraps of edible plants within crawling distance to dull the hunger pangs just enough to keep me going. Chapter Two As the morning light filtered through the canopy, my resolve hardened. I didn¡¯t know what this place was, or why I¡¯d been dragged here, but I decided I wasn¡¯t just going to lie down and give up. Tugging my damp pyjamas tighter around me, I turned my gaze toward the distant horizon. ¡°Alright, creepy alien forest,¡± I said quietly. ¡°Let¡¯s see what you¡¯ve got for me.¡± The cold still gnawed at me, and my feet throbbed with every step. I scanned the forest floor for anything that might help my situation. Loose strips of bark clung to a nearby tree, their texture rough but pliable. A thought struck me. ¡°Maybe¡­ I can make something out of this.¡± ¡°Come on,¡± I said. ¡°You¡¯ve got this. Just think of it like¡­ making something in a crafting game. Except I don¡¯t have a crafting menu to help me.¡± I rolled my sleeves up over my elbows, and set to work, peeling long strips of bark and gathering vines. My fingers fumbled with the unfamiliar materials, the cold making them stiff and clumsy, but determination kept me moving. Slowly, I wove the bark together, using the vines to secure the strips into crude soles with a string tying them onto my toes, flip-flop style. ¡°Not bad for a first try,¡± I said, slipping the makeshift sandals onto my feet. The rough texture wasn¡¯t comfortable, but it was an improvement on walking barefoot. ¡°Very¡­ Tarzan?¡±
Talent Unlocked: Basic Crafting Accept? Yes/no
I couldn¡¯t help but grin. ¡°Basic Crafting, huh?¡± I accepted the talent and swiped away the dialogue box, then took another step, wiggling my toes to test the sandals. They held together surprisingly well.
Condition: Cold. (-1 Physical, -2 Mental). Recommendation: Seek warmth immediately.
I groaned, ¡°No rest for the wicked, I see¡­¡± I pushed forward, my makeshift sandals crunching against the forest floor. The sharp chill of the morning air bit at my exposed skin, but I felt a flicker of pride at my small victory. My steps were much less painful, my bark-and-vine contraptions sparing my feet from the worst of the rough terrain. The forest stretched endlessly around me, the towering trees seeming to close in with every passing moment. I winced as I took halting steps forward, searching around for anything, anywhere I might rest and find shelter from the cold and the monsters. The towering trees gave way to another clearing, and my breath caught. Before me stood a structure, crumbling with age yet still imposing. Massive stones, covered in vines, formed the remnants of walls that seemed to hum faintly, as though the place itself were alive. Symbols carved into the stone pulsed faintly, not quite glowing, but just enough to make me squint. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ something,¡± I said.
Unknown structure detected. Analyse? Yes/No.
¡°Sure, why not? Let¡¯s add creepy ancient ruins to the list of things I don¡¯t understand.¡± I focused on ¡°Yes,¡± and a new message appeared.
Information unavailable. Insufficient knowledge. Talent unlocked: Sense Magic Accept? Yes/No
¡°Wait, so you can¡¯t tell me anything about the ruins but for some reason I get a talent for sensing magic? So¡­ then that means magic is a thing here?¡± I shrugged, ¡°well, I guess it makes about as much sense as anything else has done so far.¡± I accepted the new talent and stepped cautiously into the ruins, the air growing colder as I passed through what might once have been an archway. The hum grew louder, resonating in my chest. Whatever this place was, it didn¡¯t feel abandoned. Not entirely. Something still resided here, among the crumbling stone and the overgrown structures. The ruins were eerily silent, save for the faint hum that seemed to come from the stones themselves. I stepped cautiously through the crumbling archway. Vines hung like curtains from the broken walls, their leaves curling toward me, as though reaching for me. The air inside was colder than outside, sharp and biting, making my breaths fog. ¡°Why do I feel like I¡¯m walking into a horror film?¡± I muttered. My voice echoed softly, as if the walls themselves were listening. I took another step, my eyes scanning the faintly glowing symbols etched into the stone. They pulsed with a rhythmic light, almost like a heartbeat, and I felt every pulse as though a tiny voice greeted me as I passed by. my hands were shaking, though whether from the cold or fear, I couldn¡¯t tell. I kept moving deeper into the ruins, my footsteps hesitant and unsteady. The light from the two moons barely penetrated this place, but the faint glow from the symbols provided just enough illumination to make out my surroundings. I rounded a corner, and the space opened into what might have been a room¡ªa square chamber with cracks spiderwebbing across the walls. In the center of the room stood a pedestal, its surface covered in dust and overgrown with moss. Something faintly glimmered atop it. I could feel some kind of pulsing energy emanating from it, and recognised that my ¡°Sense Magic¡± talent had been activated. ¡°Well, that¡¯s not ominous at all,¡± I muttered. But my curiosity got the better of me, and I approached the pedestal slowly, squinting at the object resting on it. It looked like a crystal, no larger than my fist, and it pulsed faintly with light. As I reached out to touch it, the humming in the air grew louder. ¡°Probably a bad idea,¡± I muttered, hesitating. But before I could decide whether to grab the crystal or leave it alone, the hum rose to a sharp pitch, and the light from the symbols on the walls flared brightly. I stumbled backward, shielding my eyes. When the light faded, something moved in the shadows near the pedestal. I froze, my heart pounding. ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± I called, though my voice was more of a squeak than anything commanding. A soft, melodic trill answered. I blinked as the creature stepped into the faint light. It was small, no larger than a cat, with a sleek body that shimmered like liquid silver. Its luminous eyes shifted colours like oil on water, and delicate, feather-like appendages framed its head. The creature¡¯s tail flicked behind it, trailing wisps of faint blue light floating in the air. ¡°What¡­ are you?¡± I whispered, my fear was momentarily forgotten. The creature tilted its head, emitting another series of melodic hums. The sound was oddly soothing, resonating in my chest like the notes of a harp.
Creature: Lumora Type: Magical Familiar Bond Potential: High Recommendation: Attempt communication
¡°Bond potential? Are you serious? What does that even mean?¡± I whispered at the system, swiping the notification away. I crouched down slowly, careful not to make any sudden movements. The creature didn¡¯t back away. Instead, it stepped closer, its shimmering tail leaving glowing trails in the air. It was kinda cute, in a glowing alien creature kind of way. ¡°Hi there,¡± I said softly, holding out my hand. ¡°I, uh, don¡¯t know if you can understand me, but¡­ I could really use a friend right now.¡± The Lumora chirped in response, its tone light and curious. It sniffed my outstretched hand, then pressed its soft, glowing nose against my palm. A faint warmth spread through my fingers, and another notification appeared.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.
Bond formed with Lumora. Would you like to name your familiar? Yes/No.
¡°A familiar? Like, a magic pet? What am I, a magical girl now?¡± I asked, blinking at the screen. ¡°Yeah, okay, sure. Why not? Let¡¯s call you¡­ Glowbug.¡± The creature trilled, the sound bright as if it approved of the name. The notification floating over the creature had been updated.
Bonded Familiar: Glowbug (Lumora). Abilities Unlocked: Resonance, Minor Illumination, Danger Sense. Command interface available. Familiar will respond to mental commands.
I stared at the new information, half in disbelief. ¡°Mental commands? Okay, this day just keeps getting weirder.¡± Glowbug chirped again and began to hum softly, a soothing melody that seemed to vibrate through the air. I watched, wide-eyed, as the pain in my feet eased. The cuts and scrapes I had earned during my frantic escape seemed to close slightly, and the ache in my limbs dulled. ¡°You can heal me?¡± I whispered, staring at the little creature. ¡°Is that the¡­ resonance thing? Oh, you are definitely sticking with me.¡± Glowbug¡¯s eyes flashed a bright green as it leapt lightly onto my shoulder. Its tail wrapped loosely around my neck, trailing faint light that made the darkness of the ruins a little easier to bear. It whirred a discontented noise, that seemed to say, ¡°Something bad is coming!¡± A raspy, feral growl came from somewhere else in the ruins. ¡°Oh, great. Just what I needed.¡± I turned toward the exit, my new companion humming urgently in my ear. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Glowbug. Time to see how fast we can run.¡± With the faint light of Glowbug¡¯s tail to guide me, I sprinted out of the building and towards the forest, the sound of something heavy and menacing echoing in the shadows behind me. My breath came in ragged gasps as I stumbled over the uneven ground. Glowbug clung tightly to my shoulder, its shimmering tail wrapping around my neck like a glowing scarf. The creature hummed urgently in my ear, a low, insistent tone that seemed to vibrate through my chest. ¡°Yeah, I know it¡¯s getting closer!¡± I said, nearly tripping over a fallen stone. ¡°I¡¯m doing my best here!¡±
Danger Detected: Hostile Entity. Recommendation: Flee.
¡°Not now!¡± I snapped, swiping the notification away. ¡°I¡¯m trying to not die, thanks!¡± The guttural growl behind me grew louder, reverberating through the crumbling stones. I risked a glance over my shoulder and immediately regretted it. The creature¡ªsome sort of twisted amalgamation of claws, fangs, and too many limbs¡ªwas closing the distance, its glowing red eyes locked on mine. The thing moved unnaturally fast, bounding over debris as if it weighed nothing.
Creature: Shadow Ghast Danger level: High Recommendation: Flee
¡°Glowbug,¡± I gasped, ¡°if you¡¯ve got any tricks up your little glowing sleeves, now would be a great time to use them.¡± Glowbug let out a series of sharp, melodic chirps, its tail pulsing with light. The creature¡¯s hum shifted to a higher pitch, almost like a whistle, and I felt a strange warmth spread through my body. ¡°Did you just do something awesome?¡± I whispered, a flicker of hope reigniting in my chest. The warmth spread to my legs, and suddenly, my steps felt lighter. I surged forward with a speed I didn¡¯t know I had. The distance between me and the pursuing creature widened, though its growls only grew more enraged. I darted around the corner of a crumbling wall, nearly slipping on the moss-slick ground, and found myself inside another broken ruin, a narrow corridor lined with glowing symbols. At the far end, I spotted a faint glimmer of moonlight¡ªa way out. My lungs burned as I pushed myself harder, Glowbug¡¯s humming in my ear urging me on. Behind, the creature let out a bone-chilling screech, and a wave of air pressure slammed into my back. I stumbled forward, catching myself against the wall. When I glanced back, I saw the creature crouching at the entrance to the corridor, its massive form barely fitting between the walls. It hesitated, its red eyes darting to and from the glowing glyphs around it. ¡°Is it¡­ trapped on the other side of those?¡± I whispered. Glowbug chirped in response, its tail flicking as if in agreement. The creature let out another screech, but it didn¡¯t advance. Instead, it clawed at the ground, tearing chunks of stone from the floor in frustration. I didn¡¯t wait to see if it would change its mind. I turned and bolted for the exit, the cool night air hitting my face as I emerged into the forest once more. ¡°Not out of the woods yet,¡± I muttered as I leaned against a tree to catch my breath and rest. The forest was no less unnerving than before. The towering trees loomed overhead, their shadows stretching like claws across the ground. I rubbed my arms, shivering as the chill of the woods bit through my skin. ¡°We need a plan,¡± I said, glancing at Glowbug. ¡°You¡¯re great and all, but I can¡¯t keep running forever. That thing is still out there, and then there¡¯s that other monster that was chasing me before, and I¡¯m not exactly loaded with options.¡± The little creature chirped and leapt from my shoulder, hovering in the air like a glowing wisp. Glowbug made a trilling noise, darting ahead and pausing, its glowing tail pulsing in a rhythmic pattern. ¡°You want me to follow you?¡± I asked, my voice hoarse. Glowbug hummed in response, bobbing in the air like a will-o¡¯-the-wisp. I trudged after it, each step a painful effort as my muscles cramped up. The forest floor was uneven, the ground littered with roots and fallen branches, but Glowbug¡¯s light provided just enough guidance. After what felt like an eternity, I spotted the outline of a rocky outcrop rising above the trees. ¡°Higher ground,¡± I murmured. ¡°Good idea, Glowbug. I like the way you think.¡± The climb to the outcrop was grueling. My hands scraped against rough stone, and my legs threatened to give out more than once. Glowbug hovered close, its light a steady reassurance. When I finally reached the top, I collapsed onto the flat surface, my chest heaving. The view was breathtaking. The forest stretched endlessly in every direction, a sea of shadowy treetops illuminated by the twin moons. In the distance, I could see faint lights¡ªperhaps a village or a campfire?¡ªbut they were far, far away. The air was cool but fresher than it had been below, and for the first time in hours, I could finally breathe easier. ¡°Great. Civilization exists, but it¡¯s miles out of reach,¡± I said, resting my head against the cool rock. ¡°That thing can¡¯t climb, right? Please tell me it can¡¯t climb.¡± Glowbug chirped softly, nuzzling against my cheek. I sighed and patted its head. ¡°You¡¯re not reassuring me, but that¡¯s fine. Thanks for saving my ass back there, little buddy. I owe you one.¡± My heart still raced as I sat atop the outcrop, my eyes darting nervously to the forest below. Every snapping twig and rustling leaf made me flinch. Glowbug curled up beside me, its calming hum helping to dull my panic. My breathing steadied, though my exhaustion remained. ¡°Okay, Harriet,¡± I murmured to myself, ¡°you¡¯ve survived¡­ somehow. But you can¡¯t keep running. You need to think.¡± I glanced down at Glowbug, whose luminous eyes watched me intently. ¡°Any ideas, buddy?¡± Glowbug chirped softly and floated toward the edge of the outcrop, pointing its tail toward the faint lights in the distance. I followed its gaze, squinting. The lights flickered faintly, just out of reach. ¡°You want me to go there?¡± I said. ¡°Figures it¡¯s a million miles away. I¡¯m going to need food, water, and maybe a miracle or two to make it.¡±
Condition: Exhaustion (-1 Physical) Recommendation: Rest
¡°Rest? In case you didn¡¯t notice, I¡¯m in the middle of nowhere, hunted by monsters. Rest isn¡¯t exactly on the menu.¡± I swiped away the notification with a roll of my eyes. Glowbug hummed, its tail brushing against my arm. Its soft, rhythmic tones carried a strange sense of reassurance, almost as if it was saying, You¡¯re safe for now. ¡°Fine,¡± I muttered, leaning back against the cool stone. ¡°I¡¯ll rest, but just for a bit. Keep watch, okay?¡± My fuzzy little friend chirped in agreement and hovered near the edge of the outcrop, its glowing form a vigilant sentinel. I closed my eyes, though sleep didn¡¯t come easily. The sounds of the forest still set my nerves on edge, and the memory of the creature¡¯s piercing screech echoed in my mind. When I finally drifted off, fractured and chaotic dreams filled my sleep¡ªimages of the towering ruins, the monster¡¯s glowing red eyes, and the strange symbols that pulsed with life. At the center of it all was the crystal on the pedestal, its light growing brighter until it engulfed everything. I woke up with a start, my body aching and cold. The twin moons had shifted in the sky, casting a softer light over the forest. Glowbug hovered near me, humming a low, soothing melody. Looking at the clock still counting down in the corner of my vision, it seemed I had somehow gotten four hours of fitful sleep. ¡°Not exactly a spa day, but I¡¯ll take it,¡± I muttered, pushing myself to my feet. My legs trembled, but I managed to stay upright. I looked toward the distant lights, my jaw tightening with determination. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Glowbug. If there¡¯s a safe place somewhere, I¡¯m finding it.¡±
Name: Harriet Price Age: 24 Type: Human (Level 0) Titles(0/1): None Classes(0/1): None Professions(0/1): None Talents(4/5): Basic Identify, Basic Survival Instincts, Basic Crafting, Sense Magic Condition: Exhaustion (-1 Physical), Cold (-1 Physical, -2 Mental), Poor nutrition (-2 Physical, -1 Mental), Low muscle density (-3 Physical, -2 Social) Attributes: Vitality: 40/50 Physical: 10(-7) Mental: 14(-3) Social: 7(-2) Luck: 10 Experience: 0/100
Chapter Three My throat felt like I had swallowed a sheet of sandpaper. Every wheezing breath was a painful reminder of how long it had been since I¡¯d had water. My lips cracked, my tongue heavy in my mouth. The system¡¯s incessant notifications weren¡¯t helping my mood.
Condition: Dehydration (-2 Physical, -2 Mental). Recommendation: Locate a water source immediately.
¡°Yup, sounds about right,¡± I croaked, swiping the message away. ¡°If you¡¯re so smart, why don¡¯t you tell me where to find it?¡± Glowbug, perched on my shoulder, hummed softly, its glow dimmed as if conserving energy. I staggered forward, one hand brushing the rough bark of a tree to keep myself steady. Every step felt heavier than the last, my legs wobbling under my weight. The surrounding forest seemed to stretch endlessly, the towering trees blending into one another in a dizzying haze. My vision blurred, and I stumbled over an exposed root, landing hard on my hands and knees. A sharp pain shot up my arms, and I bit back a curse. Glowbug chirped, nuzzling closer to my neck. Its hum shifted to a low, rhythmic tone, and I felt a faint warmth spread through my chest. The sensation wasn¡¯t much, but it helped dull the edges of my panic. ¡°Thanks, buddy,¡± I muttered, brushing off my scraped hands. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Just clumsy.¡± Sighing, I forced myself to my feet. ¡°Okay. Think. Survival basics. Water flows downhill, right? Find a slope, find water. Or¡­ follow animals? They have to drink too,¡± I said, scanning my surroundings. My eyes landed on a faint trail of disturbed underbrush, a small pathway weaving through the dense foliage. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was something. With Glowbug lighting the way, I followed the trail, my steps slow and unsteady. The air grew cooler as I descended a gentle slope, the sound of my own labored breathing filling the empty silence. The trees began to thin, their roots tangled and exposed in the soft earth. A faint sound reached my ears¡ªsoft, rhythmic, almost musical. It wasn¡¯t Glowbug. It was something else. My heart skipped a beat. Water. Forgetting my aching feet and dry throat, I staggered toward the sound. The trees thinned as the noise grew louder, the gentle trickle of a stream guiding my steps. Finally, I saw it: a narrow thread of water winding through the forest floor, its surface glinting faintly in the filtered light. ¡°Oh, thank God,¡± I said, dropping to my knees at the stream¡¯s edge. My hands reached out instinctively, but before I could scoop up the water, a notification blinked into view.
Water: Likely contaminants present Recommendation: Purify water before consumption.
I groaned, my thirst clawing at my throat. ¡°You¡¯ve got to be kidding me. Purify it how? I don¡¯t exactly have a water filter on me.¡± Glowbug chirped and darted to the edge of the stream, its tail glowing brighter. I watched as the little creature dipped its tail into the water. The glow intensified, spreading through the stream like ripples of light. ¡°Did you just magic the water so it would be safe?¡± I said, my voice hoarse. I cupped my hands and drank deeply, the cool water soothing my parched throat. With each sip, life poured back into my body, the fog in my mind clearing with every gulp. ¡°Okay, Glowbug, you¡¯re officially my favorite. Who knew water could be so good?¡± When I¡¯d drunk my fill, I sat back, my legs sprawled in the damp grass. Perched on a nearby rock, Glowbug¡¯s light pulsed softly, almost as if pleased with itself. ¡°Thanks, buddy,¡± I said, wiping my mouth. ¡°I¡¯m seriously glad I found you!¡± For the first time since waking in this strange world, I allowed myself a small smile. The stream wasn¡¯t much, but it was a start. With water secured, I could focus on my next goal: food. And maybe if I was lucky, some shelter. The forest, for all its dangers, suddenly seemed a little less daunting. The cool water rejuvenated me just enough to push forward. Glowbug flitted beside me, its tail casting a soft, comforting glow as I trudged along the stream. I kept my eyes pointed toward the distant lights I¡¯d seen from the outcrop earlier, using the flow of the water as my guide. ¡°Okay, little buddy,¡± I muttered, my voice hoarse but steady. ¡°We¡¯ve got water. Next on the survival checklist: food and shelter.¡± The forest was quieter now, the chilling silence broken only by the gentle gurgling of the stream and the occasional rustle of leaves. My stomach growled, and I pressed a hand against it as if that might silence its protests. Glowbug chirped, darting ahead and pausing at a nearby bush. I squinted in the dim light, a blue box hovered over the fruit-laden bush, my Identify talent activating once again.
Forest Berries: Edible. Provides minimal nutrition. Taste: Tart.
¡°Not exactly a Sunday roast, but it¡¯ll do.¡± I crouched and plucked a handful of berries, popping one into my mouth. The tartness made my cheeks pucker, but I forced myself to chew and swallow. Glowbug watched me intently, its tail flicking as though urging me to eat more. The berries didn¡¯t fill the gnawing emptiness in my stomach, but they were better than nothing. After eating a handful, I stuffed a few more into the pocket of my pyjamas for later before getting to my feet. The sun dipped low; the shadows were stretching longer across the forest floor, as though reaching for my aching feet. I glanced at Glowbug, who sat on my shoulder with its tail wrapped around me like a scarf, its warmth a reassuring comfort.Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. ¡°We need somewhere to stop for the night,¡± I said. ¡°Someplace that doesn¡¯t scream ¡®easy prey.¡¯ Got any ideas?¡± Glowbug chirped and yawned, its light flickering as it snuggled in closer to my neck. ¡°I guess you must be tired. You were a trooper, keeping guard while I slept. I guess I¡¯ll look for somewhere safe for us to stay.¡± I continued, my body screaming for rest. As I rounded a bend in the stream, my heart leapt at the sight before me: a natural overhang of rock jutting out from a small cliff, forming a shallow cave. ¡°Well, that¡¯s convenient,¡± I said, a tired grin spreading across my face. I approached cautiously, peering into the shadows beneath the overhang. It wasn¡¯t deep, but it was enough to provide shelter from the wind and cold. ¡°It¡¯ll be a bit drafty though, it¡¯s basically just a roof and a couple of walls¡­ Should we try and build some extra shelter to block the entrance?¡± Glowbug trilled and hovered over to a pile of fallen branches. I followed its gaze, my exhaustion momentarily forgotten. The branches were thick and sturdy, and I quickly gathered them to create a makeshift barricade at the cave¡¯s entrance. It wasn¡¯t perfect, but it would have to do. By the time I finished, the light had faded almost completely, leaving only the faint glow of Glowbug¡¯s tail glowing like a nightlight in the cave¡¯s gloom. I slumped against the rocky wall of the cave, my body heavy with exhaustion. Glowbug nestled beside me, its vibrating purr lulling me into a restless but much-needed sleep. I was sitting in the back of the lecture hall, my notebook open but empty. The professor''s words blurred together, like the sound of static. Around me, students murmured and passed notes. A sharp laugh cut through the hum, and I felt the hairs on the back of my neck prickle. I knew it was about me. It was always about me. "Hey, Harriet," a girl whispered, leaning over from the row in front. Her voice was sweet, her smile easy. "You dropped this." She held out a crumpled piece of paper. I hadn¡¯t dropped anything, but I reached for it anyway, hesitant. The moment I touched it, she pulled it back and flicked it toward the ground. "Oops. Guess you¡¯ll have to pick it up." Laughter rippled through the rows around her. My cheeks burned, and I slid lower in my seat, pretending I hadn¡¯t heard. My hands clutched the edge of my desk until my knuckles ached. When I glanced up, my breath caught. Her smile hadn¡¯t faded¡ªin fact, it had grown wider, stretched too far across her face. Her teeth looked sharper, gleaming unnaturally in the fluorescent light. When I met her eyes, my stomach dropped. They glinted faintly, as if catching some unseen fire. I shook my head, but the eerie glow remained, flickering at the edges of her pupils. The laughter around me grew louder, echoing in my head like a swarm of wasps. I gripped the desk tighter, praying for the bell to ring. The scene shifted. I was outside the student center, clutching my bag as I weaved through the crowd. A boy with messy hair and an easy smile stepped into my path. His demeanor was friendly, his gaze warm. "Hey, its Harriet, right?" he said casually. I froze, startled that someone knew my name. He was looking at me like I was the only person there. My throat felt dry, and I could barely manage a nod. "I¡¯ve seen you in class," he continued, scratching the back of his neck. His smile faltered slightly, then returned. There was something off about it this time¡ªhis teeth seemed unnaturally white, too perfectly aligned. His words were kind, but they felt practiced, like lines from a script. "Listen," he said, his tone softening. "I was wondering if you¡¯d want to grab coffee or something? Just the two of us?" I blinked, stunned. "You mean, like¡­ a date?" "Yeah," he said, and his smile cracked like broken glass through his handsome face. For a moment, I couldn¡¯t breathe. My heart fluttered wildly, but something in my gut churned uneasily. His teeth seemed longer now, glinting faintly as his smile stretched unnaturally. His gaze, once warm, had taken on a strange intensity¡ªhis pupils seemed darker, almost bottomless. "I can¡¯t¡ª I can¡¯t keep a straight face anymore," he suddenly burst out, his laughter sharp and cutting. His mouth opened wider, exposing teeth that looked too jagged, too numerous. He waved toward his friends, who were watching from a distance. "Guys, she actually fell for it!" Their laughter joined his, swelling into a grotesque cacophony. As they stepped closer, their features warped¡ªtheir smiles stretched unnaturally wide, their eyes glinting faintly red in the fading light. My pulse pounded in my ears as I stumbled back, their laughter chasing me. I was in the cafeteria now, sitting alone with my tray. The air smelled like reheated pizza and burnt coffee. My head was down, focused on the sandwich I was picking apart, when cold liquid drenched me from above. The shock stole my breath. I looked up, sputtering, to see a girl holding an empty cup. Her smile was all teeth¡ªat first, just a smirk, but then it stretched wider, the edges of her mouth curling upward like a predator¡¯s. "Oops," she said, her voice dripping with mock innocence. The cafeteria erupted into laughter. People were pointing, whispering, some even recording on their phones. The light flickered unnaturally, making their faces appear distorted, their features shifting. The girl¡¯s laugh became a sharp, guttural sound that cut through the chaos. I couldn¡¯t move. My chest tightened, my vision blurred, and all I wanted was to disappear. But their laughter surrounded me, their glowing crimson eyes and too-wide grins closing in. I woke with a gasp, my body trembling. I grasped at the darkness, until I remembered where I was. The damp stone of the cave pressed against my back, and the air smelled of earth and moss. Glowbug hovered nearby, its soft golden light pulsing in time with my ragged breaths. It hummed low and soothing, a lullaby sung just for me. I curled into myself, wrapping my arms around my knees. My clothes were damp with sweat, and my chest ached from the rapid beating of my heart. "Just a dream," I whispered, though the taste of humiliation lingers like bile. Glowbug drifted closer, nudging my shoulder with its tiny, warm body. I closed my eyes, focusing on its gentle hum, and let the forest¡¯s silence drown out the past. Morning had broken, thankfully with no slathering and fanged monsters, though my dreams had been filled with the monsters from my past. I calmed my ragged breathing, and shook off the feelings of fear and shame those memories always gave me. I stretched out my aching limbs, looking again at the countdown clock, it now seemed to have less than twenty two hours left before the ¡°integration¡± would be complete, whatever that meant. My legs moved stiffly as I walked down to sit by the stream, and my torn pyjama pants did little to shield me from the sharp morning air. I rubbed my feet, wincing as my fingers traced over blisters and scratches. Every step I had taken since waking up in this strange world had felt like agony. I looked down at my swollen, raw soles and frowned. ¡°Alright, Glowbug,¡± I said, ¡°Time to move. We¡¯ve got a long way to go.¡± I trudged along the stream, my makeshift sandals crunching against the gravel and damp earth. The flowing water provided a sense of direction, and I clung to it like a lifeline. Glowbug floated beside me, its gentle hum occasionally breaking the forest¡¯s eerie silence.
Name: Harriet Price Age: 24 Type: Human(Level 0) Titles(0/1): None Classes(0/1): None Professions(0/1): None Talents(4/5): Basic Identify, Basic Survival Instincts, Basic Crafting, Sense Magic Condition: Cold (-1 Physical, -2 Mental), Poor nutrition (-2 Physical, -1 Mental), Low muscle density (-3 Physical, -2 Social) Attributes: Vitality: 40/50 Physical: 10(-6) Mental: 14(-3) Social: 7(-2) Luck: 10 Experience: 0/100
Chapter Four Hours passed as I walked. The forest seemed endless, its towering trees stretching toward the sky like ancient sentinels. The stream¡¯s gurgling flow was my only companion, aside from Glowbug. My stomach growled, and I chewed on the few berries I¡¯d stashed earlier, their tartness barely taking the edge off my hunger.
Condition: Fatigue (-2 Physical, -2 Mental) Recommendation: Rest or consume energy-rich food
I groaned. ¡°I get it, system. I¡¯m tired and hungry. But if I rest here, I¡¯ll probably wake up with a monster gnawing on my leg.¡± Glowbug chirped softly, darting ahead as if urging me forward. I forced myself to keep moving, my muscles aching with every step. The terrain began to slope downward, and the sound of the stream grew louder. As I rounded a bend, a crumbling stone bridge came into view. It spanned the stream, its moss-covered surface blending almost seamlessly with the surrounding forest. Intricate carvings adorned the bridge''s posts on both sides. Though time had worn their details, they were still beautiful. ¡°Think it¡¯s safe?¡± I asked Glowbug. The little creature chirped and floated toward the bridge, its tail glowing brighter. Taking that as a good sign, I followed cautiously. My sandals clacked softly against the ancient stones as I stepped onto the bridge. The air felt cooler here, almost charged with energy. I shivered, though I wasn¡¯t sure if it was from the temperature or something else. The stream¡¯s flow seemed to slow as it passed beneath the bridge, its surface shimmering faintly. I paused in the center, looking down at the water. ¡°This place feels¡­ different,¡± I murmured. ¡°Like it¡¯s important somehow.¡± Glowbug¡¯s hum deepened. ¡°You think so too?¡± I frowned, glancing around. ¡°Well, it doesn¡¯t look special to me. Just¡­ old. But it definitely feels¡­ something.¡± Glowbug¡¯s demeanour suddenly changed, and it swiveled its feathered head around, as though looking for something.
Danger Detected: Hostile entity nearby Recommendation: Proceed with caution
¡°Oh no...¡± I scanned the forest, my heart pounding. The shadows between the trees seemed deeper, darker, as though something unseen was watching. Glowbug chirped urgently, its tail flicking toward a cluster of rocks near the bridge¡¯s edge. I crouched behind them, keeping my breathing shallow and quiet as I listened. I froze, my heart pounded as the sound of a twig snapping cut through the quiet. I turned my head slowly, and my stomach sank as a familiar shape emerged from the shadows. The Greater Leshi. I gripped onto the rocks to steady myself, my knuckles white. I could barely make out the shape of the creature moving through the trees, its hunched form blending with the shadows. Its black eyes locked onto the bridge, scanning the area with predatory intent.
Creature: Greater Leshi Danger level: Moderate Recommendation: Flee
¡°Not again,¡± I whispered, my voice trembling. ¡°I am not doing this again.¡± Glowbug¡¯s hum shifted to a low, pulsing tone, its light softened to avoid drawing attention. My muscles tensed as the creature stepped closer, its claws clicking against the ground. I picked up a branch from the floor, the makeshift weapon trembling in my hands. The creature paused, its head tilting as though listening. I held my breath, silently praying it wouldn¡¯t notice me. After what felt like an eternity, the creature turned and lumbered back into the forest, its antlers glinting in the darkness. I exhaled shakily, my body sagging with relief. Glowbug chirped softly, its light brightening as it floated closer to me. ¡°Thanks for the heads-up,¡± I said, giving the little creature a scratch under its chin. ¡°I owe you big time. That thing must be tracking me somehow, either that or there¡¯s more than one.¡± I straightened, my legs shaking, and crossed over the bridge. The forest beyond seemed less creepy, the trees were spaced farther apart. I followed the stream once more, my thoughts racing. ¡°If there¡¯s a bridge, that means there used to be people here,¡± I said aloud, my voice barely above a whisper. ¡°Maybe there still are. We saw lights back when we were at high ground, that must have been some kind of settlement, right?¡± Glowbug chirped in agreement, its tail flicking toward the horizon. My gaze followed the gesture, my heart lifting slightly. The faint glimmer of lights I¡¯d seen was still far away, but it felt like a beacon¡ªa promise of salvation, however distant. ¡°Let¡¯s keep going,¡± I said. ¡°We¡¯ll get there. One step at a time.¡± I pressed on, my steps uneven but determined. The forest on this side of the bridge felt different¡ªless oppressive, though still alien. The trees stood farther apart, their massive trunks twisting into strange shapes, and the canopy allowed more light to filter through. The air was cooler, carrying a faint, almost metallic tang that made my skin prickle. Glowbug hovered beside me, its light casting soft shadows on the forest floor. Every so often, it chirped or hummed, its tones strangely melodic and reassuring. I found myself talking to the little creature more often now, the sound of my own voice helping to keep the silence and my fears at bay. ¡°How far do you think those lights are?¡± I asked, glancing toward the distant flickers barely visible through the trees. ¡°A few miles? A day¡¯s walk?¡± Glowbug tilted its head, emitting a low trill that I interpreted as uncertainty. ¡°Yeah, me neither,¡± I muttered, stepping over a fallen branch. My stomach growled loudly, and I winced. The handful of berries I¡¯d eaten earlier had done little to stave off my hunger. I scanned the forest floor as I walked, my Identify talent picking out plants and objects with frustrating consistency.
Forest Moss: Inedible. Ironvine Root: Edible with preparation. Raw consumption is discouraged.
¡°Preparation? With what, exactly? An oven? A cooking pot?¡± I shook my head, dismissing the labels. ¡°If I ever get actual food again, I¡¯m going to kiss it.¡± Glowbug chirped and darted ahead, pausing near a small bush. The small, glowing fruits hung in bunches, their translucent skin emitting a faint, bioluminescent light. If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. ¡°Is this safe to eat? It¡¯s not radioactive or something?¡± I squinted as my Identify Talent activated.
Glowfruit: Edible. Provides moderate nutrition. Taste: Sweet.
I almost cried with relief. I plucked one and bit into it eagerly. The fruit was soft and sweet, its juice flooding my mouth with a burst of flavor that felt almost too good to be real. ¡°Oh my God,¡± I mumbled through a mouthful. ¡°You¡¯re amazing, Glowbug.¡± The little creature chirped happily, its tail flicking in delight. I gathered as many fruits as I could carry, tucking some into my pocket for later, and carrying the rest in my hands. My body felt a little steadier, and my mind a little clearer, as the sugar and nutrients worked their way through my system. The forest began to change again as I walked. The trees grew shorter, their trunks more slender and knotted. The underbrush thickened, and the air took on a faint, damp chill. I shivered, tugging my thin pyjamas tighter around me as Glowbug¡¯s soft light guided me through the twisting paths. As the sun dipped lower, the shadows stretched longer, and my fatigue grew harder to ignore. The countdown clock had around 14 hours left on it, so I must have been up and walking for around eight hours. I knew that I should find somewhere to rest, but nothing had jumped out as a good stopping point, and I could just about see my goal getting closer- the flickering of the lights that promised some kind of safe haven. I pressed forward, the faint lights growing closer with each step. My legs ached, and my body screamed for rest, but I forced myself onward, spurred by the tempting promise of safety. The oppressive darkness that had cloaked the towering trees for so long seemed to thin, replaced by a faint, ethereal glow that illuminated the path ahead. When I finally emerged from the denser part of the woods, I stopped dead in my tracks. Before me stood a pair of towering stone monoliths, their surfaces etched with intricate runes that shimmered faintly in the moonlight, the shifting patterns now becoming familiar. These were not unlike the ones I had seen before that had stopped the monsters in their tracks. The stones pulsed with a steady, rhythmic light, like the beating of a giant heart. I stared, a mix of awe and trepidation churning in my chest. ¡°What in the world...¡± I whispered, stepping closer. The stones radiated a faint warmth, their energy humming through the air like an invisible current. Glowbug darted from my shoulder and hovered near the stones, its shimmering light blending with their glow. It let out a melodic hum, the sound resonating with the rhythm of the runes. I wavered, my fingers brushing against the rough bark of a nearby tree for support. The stones weren¡¯t the civilization I had hoped for, but they weren¡¯t nothing either. ¡°It¡¯s safe?¡± I asked Glowbug, my voice barely above a whisper. The little creature chirped in response, hopping over to hover in the space between the monoliths, and point with a flick of its tail. I followed its gesture, squinting. Beyond the stones, a faint path stretched through the forest, its edges lined with more glowing monoliths like soldiers standing watch. The path beckoned me forward. My gaze flicked to the shadows beyond the glowing stones, where the forest seemed darker than ever. A chill ran down my spine as I imagined the creatures that might be lurking there, waiting for me to step off the illuminated path. ¡°Alright, fine,¡± I muttered, my grip tightening on the makeshift walking stick I¡¯d been using to help me keep my footing. ¡°Let¡¯s see where this goes.¡± I stepped cautiously between the stones, and warmth washed over me. It wasn¡¯t just physical warmth; it was a comforting presence, as though the stones were reassuring me that I was safe. The fear that had clung to me as a second skin eased slightly, and my shoulders sagged with relief. The standing stones stood at regular intervals on either side of the path, their light creating a protective corridor that shielded me from the suffocating darkness of the forest. I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that the stones were alive, their energy responding to my presence. Glowbug hummed softly as it floated ahead, its tail swaying like a metronome. I followed, my footsteps growing steadier with each step. The path was easier to traverse than the wild forest floor, and for the first time since waking in this strange world, I was making real progress. The night deepened, the twin moons casting their silver light over the landscape. The path wound through the forest, curving around ancient trees or skirting rocky outcrops. Each time my gaze drifted to the shadowy woods beyond the monoliths, I felt a sharp pang of unease. The darkness seemed to ripple and shift, as though something was watching me from just beyond the stones¡¯ protective light. ¡°Stay focused,¡± I muttered to myself, my voice a quiet anchor against the rising tide of fear. ¡°Just keep moving. Don¡¯t look back.¡± The hours passed in a blur. My exhaustion gnawed at me, but I didn¡¯t dare stop. The thought of the creatures lurking beyond the path¡¯s protective glow kept me moving, one foot in front of the other. Glowbug¡¯s soft light and warm, fuzzy body was a constant comfort, its gentle hum filling the silence like a lullaby. Eventually, the path began to slope upward, the terrain becoming rockier. I made short, ragged gasps as I climbed, my muscles protesting every step. The monoliths¡¯ glow remained steady, their light guiding through the increasingly rugged landscape. At the crest of the slope, I stopped to rest. The path leveled out, and the forest thinned out a little more. The monoliths¡¯ light grew brighter, their runes pulsing with an intensity that made me squint. In the distance, I could see the edge of the forest, the trees giving way to an open expanse bathed in moonlight. Relief surged, bringing tears to my eyes. ¡°Almost there,¡± I whispered, my voice cracking. ¡°Just a little farther and I¡¯ll be free of this awful place.¡± I pushed onward, my steps quickening despite my fatigue. The open expanse drew closer, the monoliths¡¯ light forming a glowing archway at the forest¡¯s edge. I passed between the final pair of stones, the warmth of their energy lingering on my skin like a gentle farewell. Beyond the forest lay a wide plain, its grassy surface shimmering with dew. In the distance, faint lights twinkled¡ªnot the eerie glow of the monoliths, but the warm, golden light of a settlement. My heart leapt at the sight, hope blooming in my chest. Glowbug chirped excitedly, its light flaring brighter as it darted ahead. I followed it, my steps unsteady but determined. The path behind faded into darkness, the monoliths¡¯ glow no longer visible from the open plain. I glanced back once, a shiver running through me as I imagined the dangers I had left behind. The journey across the plain was easier, the open landscape a stark contrast to the forest. My exhaustion began to catch up with me, but the sight of the distant settlement kept me moving. Each step brought me closer to safety, closer to answers. As I approached the lights, my mind raced with questions. Who lived here? What kind of world had I been thrust into? Would I be able to talk to the people here without my shut-in nature rearing its ugly head? And, most importantly, would they help? I didn¡¯t have any answers, but for the first time since waking in this strange place, I felt like I was on the verge of finding them. The lights grew brighter, their warm glow illuminating a cluster of buildings nestled at the edge of a river. Smoke curled lazily from chimneys, and the faint murmur of voices reached my ears. I stopped at the edge of the settlement, and a mix of fear and hope coursed through me. Glowbug chirped, its light softening as it perched on my shoulder and curled its tail around my neck like a fuzzy, rainbow-coloured scarf. I took a deep breath, steeling myself. Whatever awaited in this settlement, it had to be better than the forest. With weary steps, I crossed into the light, finally leaving the terror of the forest behind.
Name: Harriet Price Age: 24 Type: Human(Level 0) Titles(0/1): None Classes(0/1): None Professions(0/1): None Talents(4/5): Basic Identify, Basic Survival Instincts, Basic Crafting, Sense Magic Condition: Fatigue (-2 Physical, -2 Mental), Cold (-1 Physical, -2 Mental), Poor nutrition (-2 Physical, -1 Mental), Low muscle density (-3 Physical, -2 Social) Attributes: Vitality: 40/50 Physical: 10(-8) Mental: 14(-5) Social: 7(-2) Luck: 10 Experience: 0/100
Chapter Five The golden light of dawn spread across the open plains as I took my first wary steps into the village, casting an orange glow over the dewy ground. A narrow wooden bridge groaned under my weight as I crossed the gentle river that wound around and through the settlement. Its waters flowed lazily, glittering in the sunlight and bringing a constant murmur to the stillness of the morning. Beyond the bridge, the village emerged¡ªa collection of humble stone and timber houses scattered along a winding cobblestone path. Smoke rose from chimneys, curling into the crisp air, and the distant bleating of sheep mixed with the faint clang of metal striking metal. I hesitated at the edge of the path, clutching my makeshift walking stick as my eyes darted over the unfamiliar scene. The people here were just beginning to stir. A man as short as he was wide trudged past, carrying a sack over his shoulder that looked like it weighed a ton. His thick arms and sturdy build gave him the appearance of someone who could wrestle a bull if the need arose. An impressive beard framed his round face, braided neatly and held together with metal rings and leather cord.
Type: Dwarf Details: Renowned for their resilience and craftsmanship.
Not far behind, a diminutive fellow darted through the cobblestone streets with startling agility. At first glance, I might have mistaken them for a child, but their movements were too purposeful, their face too sharp and focused. They nimbly carried a precariously tall stack of firewood, as though it was no burden to them at all. Further ahead, a taller figure leaned casually against the edge of a well, chatting amiably with another villager. This one was more familiar to me¡ªa human, their medieval-style tunic and breeches looking like something plucked from the pages of a history book. The faint murmur of their conversation reached my ears, though I couldn¡¯t make out the words. I lingered at the edge of the road, my chest tightening. The open expanse of the plains behind me and the bustling life of the village ahead left me feeling out of place and vulnerable. I kept my head down, feeling smaller than ever in this place full of stocky, broad-shouldered people. I probably look insane, wandering around in pyjamas in the middle of nowhere. What if someone gets offended by me and attacks me? What if the people here are dangerous? Glowbug hummed lightly next to my ear, and I shuffled forward, my shoulders hunched and my gaze fixed on the cobblestones beneath my feet, trying not to draw any attention to myself. Not really possible when you are wearing the world¡¯s shiniest rainbow around your neck. ¡°Mellos, eilrathen!¡± a cheerful voice called out. I froze, panicking a little about having to interact with a stranger, and in a foreign language, to boot. I turned to find a woman standing by a garden gate, a large watering can in her hand. The woman was stout and bearded, her braided facial hair glinting copper in the sunlight. Her warm smile was both inviting and disarming.
Set detected language as default? Yes/no (Grants Language Comprehension in Kaldarian)
I accepted the prompt and it faded as the woman stepped closer. ¡°You look like you¡¯ve had a rough time of it. Lost, are you?¡± I nodded stiffly, my mouth suddenly too dry to speak. The words I heard were definitely not English, and yet they twisted around in my head the moment they had left the dwarf¡¯s lips, forming perfectly recognisable sentences. The dwarf gave me a sympathetic look, setting down the watering can. ¡°Well, you¡¯ve made it to Eldston. If you¡¯re needing food and a place to rest, head over to The Worn Hearth, it¡¯s just up the lane. Bertha will take care of you.¡± I barely managed a whispered, ¡°Thank you,¡± before ducking my head and scurrying down the path. My cheeks burned from the awkwardness of the exchange, but I didn¡¯t stop until I spotted a wooden sign swaying gently in the breeze above a stone building: The Worn Hearth. Glowbug chirped softly, its melodic hum encouraging me forward. I dithered at the threshold, gripping my walking stick tightly as my stomach twisted with anxiety. The promise of food and shelter was tempting, but the thought of speaking to more strangers made my legs feel like they might give out. I pushed the heavy wooden door, which creaked loudly as it swung open. Warmth spilled out to greet me, along with the scent of something savory cooking inside. The inn was small and cosy, its main room dominated by a roaring fire in a wide stone hearth. Shadows danced on the wooden beams above, and the room buzzed faintly with the sounds of a few early-morning patrons chatting over mugs of steaming drinks. Despite the welcoming warmth, my stomach churned with anxiety. Behind the counter, an older man with a broad chest and a weathered face was wiping down the polished surface of the bar. His hair was a messy cloud of white, matched by a thick mustache that twitched as he muttered under his breath. His movements were deliberate but tinged with impatience, like someone who worked out of habit more than enthusiasm. He glanced up at the sound of the door creaking open, his gray eyes narrowing as they landed on me. ¡°Close the door, girl. You¡¯ll let the heat out,¡± he grumbled, gesturing with the cloth in his hand. ¡°What do you want? Breakfast or trouble?¡± I flinched, hastily closing the door behind me. I opened my mouth to speak but found my voice caught in my throat. Glowbug, perched on my shoulder, chirped softly, its gentle hum encouraging me forward. The man raised an eyebrow at the glowing creature. ¡°Odd little thing, isn¡¯t it?¡± His gaze returned to me, sharp and expectant. ¡°Well? Spit it out.¡±If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. ¡°Garret, give her a moment,¡± a woman¡¯s voice called from behind the bar. My gaze shifted to see a tall, wiry woman emerging from the kitchen, her graying hair tied back in a neat bun. Her sharp eyes assessed me with an intensity that made me feel as though I were being measured, weighed, and judged all at once. The woman crossed her arms, a knowing smile playing on her lips. ¡°She looks half-starved. Let the poor thing get her bearings.¡± The man grunted but didn¡¯t argue, stepping back and gesturing toward a stool at the bar. I shuffled forward hesitantly, my legs trembling as I climbed onto the seat. Glowbug fluttered off my shoulder and landed on the counter, its light dimming as if sensing the need to remain inconspicuous. ¡°What¡¯s your name, lass?¡± the woman asked, her tone softening as she leaned on the bar. ¡°Harriet,¡± I managed to whisper, my voice barely audible. ¡°Well, Harriet, I¡¯m Bertha, and this grumpy old bear is my husband, Garret,¡± the woman said, gesturing toward the man, who muttered something indecipherable. ¡°This here¡¯s our inn, and it looks like you¡¯ve found your way to the right place.¡± I nodded, my hands gripping the edge of the counter. My throat felt dry, and my stomach growled audibly, drawing a chuckle from Bertha. ¡°Hungry, are you? Let me fetch you something warm,¡± Bertha said, disappearing into the kitchen before I could protest. Garret leaned on the bar, fixing me with a scrutinising look. ¡°You¡¯ve got the look of someone who¡¯s been through it. Come through the forest, have you?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± I croaked, my voice barely stronger than a whisper. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know how I got here. I woke up there, and¡­ and I¡¯ve been walking ever since.¡± Garret¡¯s frown deepened, and he let out a low huff. ¡°Figures. Must¡¯ve been some strange magic gone wrong and you ended up there. You¡¯re not the first to stumble out of that cursed place looking half-dead. You¡¯re lucky to be alive.¡± Bertha returned, placing a steaming bowl of porridge and a thick slice of bread in front of me. The scent of honey and warm oats made my stomach clench with hunger. ¡°Eat up, dear,¡± Bertha said kindly. ¡°We¡¯ll talk once you¡¯ve got some food in you.¡± I needed no further encouragement. I picked up the spoon with trembling hands and began to eat, the warm food soothing my empty stomach and frazzled nerves. Bertha watched me with a faint smile, while Garret busied himself at the bar, muttering about freeloaders and the cost of charity. When the bowl was empty, I wiped my mouth with the back of my hand and looked up hesitantly. ¡°Thank you,¡± I said softly. Bertha nodded, her expression shifting to one of quiet thoughtfulness. ¡°Now, Harriet, I won¡¯t pry into the details of how you ended up here, but it¡¯s clear you¡¯re in need of a place to rest. We¡¯ve got a spot by the hearth that¡¯ll keep you warm, and I can offer you some meals to keep you fed. But nothing in life is free, my dear.¡± My heart sank, and I looked down at my hands. ¡°I don¡¯t have any money,¡± I admitted. ¡°I thought as much,¡± Bertha said, her tone still kind but firm. ¡°You¡¯ve barely a scrap of meat on your bones, so I¡¯d not have seen you go hungry either way. But there¡¯s plenty to do around here. If you¡¯re willing to lend a hand, we can work something out. A bit of work as a fair exchange.¡± ¡°What kind of work?¡± I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. ¡°Cleaning, fetching water, maybe helping with the washing up,¡± Bertha said. ¡°Nothing too difficult. And we¡¯ve got some old clothes my son left behind when he moved to the capital. You¡¯re smaller than him, but they¡¯ll do. They¡¯ll serve you better than those torn-up things you¡¯re wearing.¡± My face burned with embarrassment, but I nodded quickly. ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever I can. Thank you.¡± Garret snorted from behind the bar, shaking his head. ¡°You¡¯re too soft, Bertha. Taking in strays like this.¡± ¡°Hush, you old fool,¡± Bertha shot back, though her tone carried more affection than irritation. ¡°She¡¯s not the first, and she won¡¯t be the last. You know as well as I do that I can¡¯t turn away someone in need. I¡¯d hope someone else did the same for our boy if he needed it.¡± One of the patrons¡ª a diminutive man with a patchy beard and a nose slightly too big for his face¡ª chimed in with a grin. ¡°Aye, Garret. You¡¯re just grumpy because you¡¯ll have to share your porridge.¡±
Type: Hobbe Details: A diligent people known for their love of good food and drink.
¡°Mind your business, Larkin,¡± Garret snapped, though there was a glint of amusement in his eye. Another patron, a stout woman with a booming laugh, added, ¡°Welcome to the Worn Hearth, lass. Don¡¯t mind Garret; he¡¯s all bark and no bite.¡± I managed a small smile, my shoulders relaxing slightly as the tension in the room eased. Glowbug chirped softly, nuzzling against my arm as if to encourage me. ¡°Well then, Harriet,¡± Bertha said, her tone decisive. ¡°Finish up your meal, and I¡¯ll show you where you can sleep. It¡¯s not much, but it¡¯ll keep you warm.¡± ¡°Thank you,¡± I said again, my voice trembling with gratitude. Bertha smiled warmly. ¡°You¡¯ll earn your keep, don¡¯t you worry. And maybe, in time, you¡¯ll tell us how you ended up here. For now, rest.¡± As the bustle of the morning rush began, I felt a flicker of hope kindling somewhere deep inside. The inn, with its warmth and kind faces, was not the lonely but safe home I had lost, but it was a good place to start piecing myself back together, away from the dark and the danger of the forest. And for right now, that was what I needed.
Name: Harriet Price Age: 24 Type: Human (Level 0) Titles(0/1): None Classes(0/1): None Professions(0/1): None Talents(4/5): Basic Identify, Basic Survival Instincts, Basic Crafting, Sense Magic Condition: Fatigue (-2 Physical, -2 Mental), Poor nutrition (-2 Physical, -1 Mental), Low muscle density (-3 Physical, -2 Social) Attributes: Vitality: 40/50 Physical: 10(-7) Mental: 14(-3) Social: 7(-2) Luck: 10 Experience: 0/100
Chapter Six Waking from sleep was like emerging from the bottom of a lake. The depths of sleep kept dragging me back under its murky waters. When I finally shook off the deep slumber, my body was stiff from the hard floor in front of the tavern¡¯s hearth. The warmth of the dying embers lingered in the air, contrasting with the biting cold I felt in the forest hours earlier. I lay still, my mind floating in a haze before the sounds of the tavern¡¯s morning routine tugged me back to reality. The clatter of pots and the muted hum of voices seeped through the wooden walls, reminding me where I was. Eldston. The Worn Hearth. A strange world I didn¡¯t understand.
System integration complete. Full system access granted. Map function unlocked. Notifications can be adjusted to user¡¯s preference. Status sheet functions updated. Journal function unlocked. Inventory tracker unlocked.
Sitting up, I winced as my sore muscles protested the movement. My thin pyjamas¡ªso out of place here¡ªdid little to shield me from the draft that crept through the gaps in the stone walls. I pulled my knees to my chest, wrapping my arms around them, as a small chirp drew my attention. Glowbug sat perched on the edge of the hearth, its shimmering body casting soft, flickering lights across the stone. ¡°Morning, Glowbug,¡± I murmured, my voice scratchy. Before Glowbug could chirp again, the kitchen door swung open with a creak, and Bertha appeared, her sharp eyes scanning the room. She carried a bundle of clothes in one hand and a steaming bowl in the other. ¡°Good, you¡¯re awake,¡± Bertha said briskly, placing the bowl on the small table nearby. ¡°Thought you might sleep all day. It¡¯s almost ten, so the breakfasts have already come and gone, but lunch will not be far off.¡± I flushed, tucking my chin to my chest. ¡°Sorry¡­¡± ¡°Don¡¯t apologize, girl. You looked like you needed it,¡± Bertha replied, her tone softening as she held out the bundle of clothes. ¡°Here. Might be a bit loose on you, but they¡¯ll do.¡± Knowing that I really did need a change of clothes, I accepted the bundle. The fabric felt coarse but sturdy. I managed a quiet, ¡°Thank you.¡± Bertha waved off the gratitude and gestured to the bowl. ¡°Eat up. You¡¯ll need your strength. I¡¯ll show you what needs doing once you¡¯re ready.¡± I nodded, my stomach twisting with a mix of hunger and anxiety. As I ate, Glowbug flitted to my side, humming softly. The porridge was simple but warm, and it eased some of the tension in my chest. The Worn Hearth hummed with the quiet lull of a slow morning. Faint sunlight filtered through the small, uneven windows, throwing soft streaks of gold onto the polished wooden tables. The crackling of the hearth filled the space, the occasional clatter of mugs sounded as Garret moved behind the bar, muttering about supplies that would need fetching later. I stood at the far corner of the room, rag in hand, dutifully scrubbing at a table that was already spotless. My body was tense, my focus locked on the rhythmic movement of the cloth over the wood. Anything to keep myself grounded, to avoid the knot of nerves that churned in my stomach. Even the gentle hum of Glowbug, perched on the edge of the hearth, felt distant. The door creaked open, the sound louder than I expected in the quiet. I stiffened but didn¡¯t turn around, my shoulders hunching instinctively as heavy boots stomped across the threshold. A man¡¯s voice boomed, rough and commanding. ¡°Mornin¡¯, Garret,¡± the stranger called, his voice carrying through the tavern like the deep rumble of thunder before a storm. I risked a glance over my shoulder. The man was tall and broad, his shoulders draped in a worn leather coat that looked as though it had seen one too many winters. A thick dark beard flecked with silver framed his chiseled face, and his heavy boots left faint scuffs on the tavern floor as he approached the bar. ¡°Back again, Torrin?¡± Garret asked, his tone dry but not unfriendly. He pulled a mug from the counter and filled it with practiced ease, the foamy ale sloshing just to the rim without spilling over. ¡°Couldn¡¯t wait ¡®til noon?¡± Torrin snorted. ¡°Thought I¡¯d get ahead of the rush.¡± As the two men exchanged a few more words, I focused again on my scrubbing, trying to make myself as inconspicuous as possible. But Garret¡¯s next words froze me in place. ¡°Harriet!¡± Garret barked, the sharpness of his tone jolting me out of my skin. ¡°Take this over to Torrin, will you?¡± My pulse quickened, my grip tightening on the rag. I looked up hesitantly, eyes wide as they met Garret¡¯s expectant gaze. ¡°Me?¡± ¡°Aye, you. Don¡¯t keep him waiting,¡± Garret said, sliding the mug closer to the edge of the counter. My legs were as heavy as lead as I set the rag down and approached the bar. I reached for the mug, my hands trembling slightly, and muttered a quiet, ¡°Okay.¡± Torrin turned toward me as I approached his table, his piercing gaze making my heart race. Up close, he seemed even larger, the bulk of his frame casting a shadow over the table. I placed the mug in front of him with careful, deliberate movements, willing myself not to spill a drop. Torrin studied me for a moment, his expression unreadable. ¡°Didn¡¯t know Bertha was hiring.¡± I froze. I hadn¡¯t expected him to speak to me, and my mind scrambled for a response. ¡°Um¡­¡± ¡°You from around here?¡± he pressed, his tone not unkind but carrying a weight that made me feel like I was under a spotlight. I opened my mouth, but the words caught in my throat. My cheeks burned as I stared at the table, the silence stretching uncomfortably. ¡°Well?¡± Torrin prompted, leaning back in his chair. His voice was casual, but there was a hint of impatience in his tone. ¡°I¡­ no,¡± I finally managed, my voice barely audible. The single word felt like a monumental effort, and I immediately ducked my head, clutching my hands together to stop them from shaking. Torrin frowned slightly, his eyes narrowing as he studied me. He opened his mouth as if to say something else but stopped, glancing at Glowbug, who was perched on a nearby beam, its soft light flickering like a hesitant candle. Torrin¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°That thing yours?¡± he asked, his voice lower now, almost suspicious. I nodded quickly, not trusting myself to speak. Glowbug chirped softly, tilting its head as if sensing my discomfort. ¡°Hmph,¡± Torrin grunted, his gaze lingering on Glowbug for a moment before he turned back to his drink. ¡°Better keep it under control. People ¡®round here don¡¯t take kindly to strange magic.¡±You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. My stomach twisted at his words, and I took a step back, my hands clenched into fists at my sides. I didn¡¯t know what to say¡ªor if I even should say anything¡ªso I simply turned and hurried back to my corner, my heart pounding in my chest. The Worn Hearth was modest, its interior lit by the warm glow of the hearth and the faint light streaming in through the windows. The wooden beams overhead were dark with age, and the air carried the faint scent of smoke and ale. The tables and chairs were mismatched but sturdy, their surfaces worn smooth from years of use. That morning, the tavern was quiet, with only a few patrons trickling in as noon drew closer. The stillness was punctuated by the occasional clink of mugs or the low murmur of conversation, creating a sense of calm that I both appreciated and feared. The quiet left little room for distraction, and my thoughts wandered to the challenges that awaited. I was in a strange place, where I didn¡¯t know the culture, didn¡¯t know what was socially acceptable, and didn¡¯t know what the laws were. The people seemed friendly enough, but what if they started asking me questions? I kept a shaky focus on the tasks I was given, and the scrubbing of bowls and tankards helped to keep my mind off of the uneasiness that being in this unfamiliar world was bringing. As the day wore on, the atmosphere shifted. By midday, the tavern hummed with life, the voices of patrons blending into a steady background buzz. The energy was both intimidating and magnetic, drawing me into its rhythm even as I struggled to navigate the demands of working in the tavern. My first lunchtime rush at The Worn Hearth was a whirlwind of activity. The tavern buzzed with energy as villagers streamed in, eager for a warm meal and a break from their day¡¯s work. I moved briskly between tables, struggling to balance trays of steaming bowls and mugs of ale, my nerves on edge as I tried to keep up with the fast pace and avoid bumping into patrons. The warm, bustling vibe was a stark contrast to the sinister but comparatively quiet forest I¡¯d left behind. Sweat beaded on my brow, and my arms ached from carrying heavy trays, but I pressed on, determined to meet the demands of my new environment. Glowbug curled its tail around my neck, its soft hum a steady comfort as I navigated the crowded room. Despite my fatigue, I felt a flicker of pride each time I successfully delivered an order without spilling. Bertha caught my eye from behind the bar and gave an approving nod. The older woman was pouring drinks with practiced efficiency, her sharp eyes scanning the room to ensure everything ran smoothly. ¡°Harriet! Table in the corner needs their stew topped up,¡± she called over the din. ¡°On it!¡± I replied, my voice firm and clear. I grabbed the ladle and a fresh bowl of stew, weaving my way through the patrons to deliver it. Torrin, the gruff traveler I¡¯d met that morning, gave a nod of thanks as I placed the bowl in front of him. ¡°Settling in, then?¡± he asked, his sharp eyes softening slightly. I nodded, unsure of what to say. Torrin¡¯s demeanor was rough, but there was a kindness beneath it, I thought. I lingered for a moment longer than necessary before retreating to the kitchen. The lunchtime rush tested my stamina like nothing else. By the time the tavern began to quiet, my muscles burned, and my feet throbbed, but I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Each tray carried and each order delivered was another step toward rebuilding myself. ¡°Not bad for your first shift,¡± Bertha said as I wiped down a table. ¡°You¡¯ve got a good head on your shoulders, girl. Keep at it, and you might just make a fine tavern lass.¡± I flushed but said nothing, a mix of embarrassment and determination bubbling inside me. I could feel the burn in my muscles, the slow awakening of parts of my body that had been dormant for too long.
Talent Unlocked: Basic Endurance Accept? Yes/No
I couldn¡¯t help but smile. It would fill up my last Talent slot, according to my Status sheet, but this sounded like a really good one. Endurance was something I could count on to keep me on my feet for longer. I knew I couldn¡¯t pass it up. I accepted the new talent with a mental command and moved on to the next task Bertha handed me. As the lunchtime crowd filtered out of the tavern, and the afternoon wore on, I found myself assigned to fetch water from the nearby well. The full buckets weighed more than I expected, and carrying them back to the tavern left me panting and light-headed. I paused frequently to catch my breath, my legs trembling under the strain. I was sure that my new talent was being tested, and not sure how much it was actually helping. ¡°Not bad for a first time,¡± said Larkin, the hobbe I¡¯d seen earlier, who I found leaning casually against the well when I was making my third trip. ¡°A few more days of that, and you¡¯ll have muscles to rival Bertha¡¯s.¡± I shot him a weak smile, unsure whether to take his comment as encouragement or teasing. I adjusted my grip on the buckets and trudged back toward the tavern. As the sun dipped lower, the dinner rush began. My nerves steadied as I moved through the tavern, my earlier fumbling replaced by a growing confidence. The villagers were friendly, often offering kind words or teasing remarks that brought faint smiles to my face. Bertha watched with a keen eye, stepping in to help only when absolutely necessary. ¡°You¡¯re doing fine, lass,¡± Bertha said when I dithered at the bar, unsure which table needed their drinks. ¡°Just keep your head up and trust yourself. You¡¯ll get the hang of it.¡± By the end of the evening, I was exhausted but proud. Glowbug¡¯s soft hum seemed to echo my own feelings of accomplishment as I collapsed onto a stool by the hearth. Bertha set a bowl of stew and a mug of ale on the table next to me, and gave my shoulder an encouraging squeeze. ¡°Good work today. Not excellent, you did spill some drinks and made mistakes, but that¡¯s how you learn. And I could tell you were trying, which is the main thing. Get some rest, lass. Busy day again tomorrow.¡± I began to wonder if the roof over my head, meals, and clothing were enough recompense for the grueling work I was doing. But where else could I go right now? Certainly not back to the woods, and besides, this seemed like as good a place as any, for right now. I shrugged, ate my stew, and, after sniffing the ale, I downed it, hoping that it would help me to sleep easier. I was going to need my sleep. Over the course of the following days, my routine became more familiar. I started each morning by helping Bertha prepare the tavern for the day, wiping down tables and sweeping the floors. The physical labor was harsh at first, but my stamina improved with each passing day. Bertha made sure I ate hearty portions of bread, stews, and roasted vegetables, ensuring my body had the fuel it needed to recover. Each day brought new challenges. Fetching water became easier as my muscles grew stronger, and carrying heavy trays no longer left me trembling. The system¡¯s notifications of small attribute increases and improvements to my condition became a daily occurrence, each one a small victory that reminded me of my progress. Between my chores, I found myself interacting with the locals more than I anticipated. At first, my shy nature made these exchanges awkward, but the people of Eldston were patient. Bertha often assigned me to serve drinks or deliver meals, forcing me out of my comfort zone. By the end of the week, my condition had improved significantly. My arms and legs, once weak and trembling, had gained strength and stability. The dizziness that had plagued me faded, replaced by a newfound resilience. Even my social skills, long neglected, showed signs of improvement. I could hold brief conversations with patrons without freezing up, and I found myself looking forward to the friendly banter that filled the tavern each night. The combination of physical labor and regular meals transformed me. The system confirmed my progress with notifications of increased attributes and unlocked talents, each one a reminder of how far I¡¯d come.
Name: Harriet Price Age: 24 Type: Human (Level 0) Titles(0/1): None Classes(0/1): None Professions(0/1): None Talents(5/5): Basic Identify, Basic Survival Instincts, Basic Crafting, Sense Magic, Basic Endurance Condition: Normal Attributes: Vitality: 54/54 Physical: 12 Mental: 14 Social: 8 Luck: 10 Experience: 0/100
Chapter Seven I stretched my arms as the sun filtered through the small window in the Worn Hearth¡¯s kitchen. I had already helped Bertha prepare for the breakfast crowd and cleaned up afterward, my movements now familiar and efficient. I was just finishing stacking the last of the washed plates when Bertha walked in. ¡°Harriet, come sit for a moment,¡± Bertha said, her voice calm but firm. She gestured to the wooden chair by the hearth. I set the plates down and wiped my hands on my apron, curiosity piqued as I joined Bertha by the fire. ¡°You¡¯ve done good work this past week, girl,¡± Bertha began, her tone light but purposeful. ¡°I¡¯ve been watching, and you¡¯ve proven you¡¯re not afraid of hard labor. But you¡¯re wearing yourself out. It¡¯s time we made some adjustments.¡± I blinked, unsure how to respond. ¡°Adjustments?¡± Bertha nodded. ¡°Starting tomorrow, I¡¯ll only need you to work the evening rush. The mornings and afternoons can be yours to do with as you please. You¡¯ve earned that much. Meals and your room will still be provided, and if you want to help with odd jobs during the day, I¡¯ll pay you a few coppers for your trouble.¡± ¡°Room?¡± I repeated, my voice catching. I had grown used to sleeping by the hearth, the warmth of the fire a comfort I hadn¡¯t realised I needed. ¡°Aye,¡± Bertha replied with a faint smile. ¡°We¡¯ve cleared out my son¡¯s old room upstairs. There¡¯s a cot in there, and it¡¯ll give you a bit of privacy. It¡¯s time you had a proper place to sleep, girl. You¡¯re not some slave to be worked into the ground.¡± I shook my head, my hands fidgeting in my lap. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t want to be a burden. The hearth is fine¡­¡± Bertha cut me off with a raised hand. ¡°Nonsense. You¡¯ve already paid your way. And besides, you¡¯ll work better if you¡¯re rested. Now, no more arguing. The room¡¯s yours.¡± I hesitated, my throat tight with emotion. ¡°Thank you, Bertha,¡± I said softly. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know how to repay your kindness.¡± Bertha waved me off with a chuckle. ¡°Just keep doing good work and don¡¯t let Garret scare you off with his grumbling. That¡¯ll be payment enough.¡± The next morning, I awoke in my new room. The cot was small but comfortable, and the modest wooden desk and chair made the space feel almost homely. Glowbug perched on the windowsill, its tail softly illuminating the room as the first light of dawn crept in. For the first time in days, I had no immediate obligations. I dressed in the sturdy clothes Bertha had given me and sat on the edge of the cot, considering how to spend my day. Glowbug chirped, fluttering to my shoulder as if sensing my indecision. ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± I murmured, stroking Glowbug¡¯s shimmering head. ¡°I should go see more of Eldston.¡± With that resolve, I stepped outside. The village was already stirring, its cobblestone paths bustling with activity. Farmers pushed carts laden with fresh produce, children darted between houses, and the rhythmic clang of a blacksmith¡¯s hammer echoed from the forge. My first stop was the market square. The air was rich with the scent of baked goods and spices, and vendors called out their wares from brightly coloured stalls. I stopped at the edge of the square, feeling both excited and overwhelmed. ¡°Morning, lass!¡± a cheerful voice called out. I turned to see a stout woman with a warm smile, standing behind a stall piled high with loaves of bread. ¡°You¡¯re the one working at The Worn Hearth, aren¡¯t you? Bertha¡¯s told me about you. Come, try a bit of my honeyed bread.¡± I stepped closer, my stomach growling at the sight of the golden loaf. ¡°Thank you,¡± I said shyly, accepting the small piece the woman handed me. The bread was soft and sweet, and my eyes widened at the flavor. ¡°It¡¯s wonderful,¡± I said, my voice sincere. The woman beamed. ¡°You¡¯re welcome anytime, lass. Name¡¯s Greta. If you ever need a treat, just say so.¡± I nodded, my confidence bolstered by the friendly exchange. I spent the morning wandering through the market, meeting more villagers, and learning about the goods they sold. By the time the sun reached its zenith, I felt more at ease among the bustling crowd. In the early afternoon, I wandered toward the blacksmith¡¯s forge, drawn by the rhythmic clang of metal on metal. The smith, a broad-shouldered man with soot-streaked skin, looked up as I approached. ¡°New face,¡± he said, his voice gruff but not unkind. ¡°You¡¯re Bertha¡¯s new help, aren¡¯t you?¡± I nodded. ¡°Yes, sir. I¡¯m Harriet.¡± ¡°Alden,¡± the smith replied, setting his hammer down. ¡°Good to meet you. If you ever need tools or repairs, you know where to find me.¡± I thanked him and lingered for a moment, watching as he worked. The heat of the forge and the strength in Alden¡¯s movements were mesmerising. After watching him pull the glowing metal from the flames and strike it with the precision that could only be gained with years of experience, I turned, returning to my exploration of the small settlement. When the afternoon drew towards evening, I again had returned to work and was either flitting from table to table with trays of drinks or had my hands in the sink washing a never-ending stack of dishes. As the days passed, my routine began to include more of these explorations. I met the miller, a jovial man who let me watch as he ground grain into flour, and the apothecary, a quiet woman who spoke in soft tones as she arranged jars of herbs and potions. Each interaction added to my growing sense of belonging. I also began to recognise the regular patrons of The Worn Hearth outside of the tavern. One afternoon, I encountered Torrin near the edge of the village, examining the fletching on an arrow. ¡°You¡¯re out and about,¡± Torrin remarked, glancing up as I approached. I nodded. ¡°Bertha gave me some time off. I¡­ thought I¡¯d explore a bit.¡± Torrin grunted in acknowledgment. ¡°Good. This place is small, but it¡¯s got its charm. Just watch yourself if you go near the woods.¡± I shivered at the thought of the forest and nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll be careful¡­ and I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be going back to that forest if I can avoid it.¡± Torrin raised an eyebrow, ¡°You really did come out of there, then?¡± he asked, ¡°Not many can say they¡¯ve been through those woods and lived to tell about it. I¡¯ve only ever dared to explore the edges¡ªnever far from the standing stones. The further in you go, the more dangerous it gets.¡± I shrugged, trying to keep my voice steady. ¡°Let¡¯s just say I had an interesting time. The forest didn¡¯t exactly roll out the welcome mat.¡± ¡°I¡¯d imagine not. How did you manage to stay alive out there?¡± ¡°I ¡­guess I didn¡¯t have enough meat on me to make a decent meal for the monsters,¡± I said. Torrin laughed, a low, rumbling sound that seemed genuine. ¡°Well, you must have done something right to make it here. You¡¯ve got guts, I¡¯ll give you that. If you ever feel like sharing what you saw in there, I¡¯d be keen to listen. Knowledge about that forest is worth its weight in gold around here.¡±Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. I gave him a faint smile, unsure if I wanted to relive my experience just yet. ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡± He nodded, his expression softening. ¡°Fair enough. Stay safe, lass. And remember¡ªthere¡¯s more to surviving here than just keeping your head down.¡± With that, he turned his attention back to his arrows, leaving me to ponder his words. As I walked back toward the market, Glowbug hummed softly on my shoulder, a quiet reminder that I wasn¡¯t navigating this strange new world entirely alone. As I made my way toward Greta¡¯s stall to purchase a loaf of honeyed bread, a sudden commotion ahead caught my attention. A wagon, its wheel splintered, tilted precariously to the side. The sharp crack of wood splintering echoed through the market as it collapsed fully, sending its cargo tumbling onto the cobblestones. A child who had been playing nearby cried out as one of the wooden beams struck him, knocking him to the ground. Glowbug zipped off my shoulder, its shimmering form darting through the air toward the injured boy. I froze in shock as Glowbug hovered over the child, its tail pulsing with light. The luminescence grew brighter, a soft hum filling the air as Glowbug¡¯s Resonance ability activated. The child¡¯s cries quieted, his soft breaths evening out as the healing light enveloped him. The boy¡¯s mother rushed forward, her face pale with fear. She knelt beside her son, her hands trembling as she checked him over. Her wide eyes darted to Glowbug, then to me. ¡°What¡­ what did it do?¡± she asked, her voice tight with both gratitude and unease. ¡°Glowbug¡­ healed him,¡± I said softly, stepping closer. ¡°He¡¯ll be okay now.¡± The woman¡¯s gaze flicked between her son and my glowing friend. Relief softened her features, but it was quickly replaced by a guarded expression. She scooped her child into her arms, holding him tightly. ¡°You should be careful,¡± she said in a hushed tone, her eyes narrowing. ¡°Not everyone in Eldston would react kindly to seeing magic. There are those who¡­ wouldn¡¯t stay quiet about it.¡± My stomach twisted. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean any harm,¡± I said, my voice barely above a whisper. ¡°Glowbug just wanted to help.¡± The woman¡¯s expression softened slightly. ¡°I¡¯m grateful my son is safe,¡± she said, her tone still cautious. ¡°But people here¡­ they¡¯re afraid of what they don¡¯t understand. And those who meddle with magic often go missing. Keep your creature under control, for your own sake.¡± I nodded, my chest tight with anxiety. As the woman carried her son away, Glowbug returned to my shoulder, its light dim and uncertain. I reached up to stroke its shimmering head, murmuring, ¡°Thank you for helping him. It was the right thing to do, little buddy. But¡­ we¡¯ll have to be more careful from now on.¡± I continued on to the bakery, my earlier excitement at getting a sweet treat dulled by the encounter. As I handed over a few coppers for a small loaf of honeyed bread, I couldn¡¯t help but glance around the market. The weight of the woman¡¯s warning hung heavy in my mind. For now, I would need to tread lightly¡ªand protect both Glowbug and myself from the dangers that fear and suspicion could bring. That afternoon, sun poured through the Worn Hearth''s small windows, streaking the wooden floors with warm gold. I sat cross legged in front of the hearth, tickling Glowbug¡¯s belly as it purred loudly and rolled lazily on its back. From the kitchen, I could hear Bertha bustling about, the clang of pots and pans mingling with the soft crackle of the hearth. "Hattie!" Bertha¡¯s voice rang out, cutting through the quiet. "Can you run an errand? We¡¯re low on meat, and it¡¯s past time to pick up the order from Wilfrid." I stepped into the kitchen. "Of course," I said, "Where¡¯s the butcher?" Bertha paused mid-stir, her spoon hovering over a bubbling pot. Her eyes flicked to me, not with surprise exactly, but with something close to curiosity. "You¡¯ve not been to Wilfrid¡¯s yet?" "No, I haven¡¯t. Could you give me directions?" Bertha¡¯s eyebrows twitched, but her tone was steady and kind. "Directions? Lass, why not let me share the location with you? You can mark it on your map." I blinked at her, confused. "Mark it on my map? I don¡¯t know how that works." Bertha¡¯s face softened. "Ah, I see. Well, there¡¯s no shame in it. If no one taught you, how would you know? Everyone should learn these things, but not everyone has someone to show them. Come on, sit down. I¡¯ll walk you through it." Her assumption hit me squarely, but I said nothing to correct her. It was easier to let her think whatever she wanted¡ªmaybe that I was an orphan. The real reason for my ignorance was too strange to share, though perhaps her thinking that I had nobody in the world who cared about me was pretty accurate. I sat at the kitchen table, my curiosity mingling with a faint unease. Bertha settled in the chair across from me and leaned back. Her fingers moved deftly in the air, tapping invisible prompts. A soft chime echoed in my head, and a notification popped up in my vision.
Bertha Calloway wants to share a map location: Wilfrid¡¯s Butcher Shop. Accept? Yes/no
I hesitated, then focused on the word ¡°Accept.¡± The faint sound of a bell followed, and a glowing marker appeared on the edge of my map interface, highlighting a spot labeled "Wilfrid¡¯s." "There you go," Bertha said with a small smile. "That marker will guide you straight to Wilfrid¡¯s shop. Your map can be a handy tool if you know how to use it. Focus on that point of reference now; you¡¯ll see an overlay of the direction you need to go while you walk about in the village. Helps you to not get lost." I did as she suggested, and a flashing green arrow pointing out of the door was overlaid on the floor, like some kind of augmented reality GPS. "I see it," I said softly, marveling at how intuitive it felt to use this part of the Map function. "Good. Now, there¡¯s more you can do with the system than just maps," Bertha said, her tone turning practical. "Do you know how to join a party?" I shook my head again. "No. Not really ever needed to do that." "Let¡¯s fix that. Say you and someone else needed to work together on something¡ªlike a hunt or a big job, harvesting in an orchard or something. You can form a party to keep track of each other¡¯s locations and share certain system functions. Here, let¡¯s give it a try."
Bertha Calloway has invited you to join a temporary party. Accept? Yes/no
I accepted, and the edges of my vision glowed faintly. A small icon of Bertha appeared in the lower corner, showing her direction and distance from me. "See?" Bertha said, gesturing. "Now we¡¯re in a party. If I wandered off or got into trouble, you¡¯d know where to find me. It¡¯s simple but effective. You can press the icon for that person and it will send an alert requesting help. So if for instance you were picking apples and you fell out of a tree and broke your leg, they could come find you." "That¡¯s¡­ a very specific example." ¡°I¡¯ll tell you the whole story another time. Let¡¯s just say Garret hasn¡¯t climbed a tree since then. It was years ago, mind you.¡± I chuckled at the mental image of Old Garret up a tree, but composed myself, ¡°The party feature seems pretty useful!¡± Bertha gave my shoulder a quick, reassuring pat. "It is. You¡¯ve had it rough, haven¡¯t you? Sounds like you¡¯ve done a lot of learning the hard way without anyone to show you how stuff works. But you¡¯re here now, and that¡¯s what matters." Her words tugged at something deep in me, but I pushed it aside. "What else should I know?" "The inventory tracker," she said with a knowing smile. "This one¡¯s a lifesaver, especially if you¡¯re carrying a lot. Open your system menu and look for the inventory section. It will only track items you have with you right now, so if you put your bag down and move more than a meter away, it will not show you what is in there." I followed her instructions, and a new interface unfolded. A list of my belongings appeared, neatly categorized. The few things in my pockets were highlighted, each tagged with weight and details. I let out a small, awed breath. "See that?" Bertha said. "It tracks everything you¡¯re carrying. Need to find something specific, or count how many of something are in your bag? Just search for it by writing the name of the item in the box at the top there. Saves you from rummaging through your pack like a squirrel after its last nut." I laughed despite myself. "This is incredible. I can¡¯t believe I¡¯ve been fumbling around like this for so long." Bertha¡¯s smile widened. "Well, you won¡¯t have to anymore. Most folk around here take the system for granted. When folks get full access at sixteen, usually it¡¯s the parents who teach them, or an older sibling or other family member. But it¡¯s good you¡¯re learning now. You¡¯ll catch on quick, I¡¯m sure." For the next few minutes, I explored the inventory tracker, marking items I used most often and testing its search function. It was seamless and intuitive, a tool that felt like it had been waiting for me to discover it. Bertha eventually rose from her chair, stretching slightly. "You¡¯re all set now. Just follow the marker to Wilfrid¡¯s, and he¡¯ll have the order ready. If you run into any trouble, let me know when you get back." I stood too, grateful for her patient guidance. "Thanks, Bertha. For everything." She waved a hand dismissively, though her smile was warm. "Go on now. Wilfrid won¡¯t wait all afternoon." Stepping out into the cool air, I adjusted my cloak and focused on the green arrow marker in my vision. The streets of Eldston stretched ahead, and I felt a little more confident in finding my way here. Chapter Eight The days in Eldston passed in a steady rhythm, though I still felt out of step with the villagers around me. Each morning, I awoke in my modest room at The Worn Hearth, greeted by the warm hum of Glowbug perched on my windowsill. After helping Bertha clean up from breakfast, I spent my mornings exploring the village, sometimes running errands or helping with odd jobs for a few coppers. By evening, I was back in the tavern, weaving through crowded tables with trays of food and drink. Despite the quiet comfort I had found in this routine, whispers had begun to follow me through the cobblestone streets. Ever since Glowbug healed the boy injured in the street, the story had spread like wildfire. The children of Eldston retold the tale with boundless exaggeration, claiming Glowbug had shone as brightly as the sun, that its magic had not only healed the boy but made him stronger. Adults, overhearing these fanciful accounts, responded with hushed discussions, their tones ranging from curiosity to unease. I noticed the way villagers watched me now. Greta, the baker, greeted me warmly and slipped me extra pieces of bread, but there was a new hesitance in her smile. Alden, the blacksmith, gave me curt nods but seemed to watch Glowbug with a wary eye whenever it perched on my shoulder. Even the children¡ªnormally bold and eager to chatter¡ªsometimes stopped short, staring wide-eyed at Glowbug before scurrying away. It wasn¡¯t long before the first secret request came. I had just returned to the tavern after fetching water from the well when a knock came at the kitchen door. Bertha, busy stirring a pot of stew, nodded for me to answer it. I opened the door to find a man standing there, twisting his hat in his hands with a strained expression. ¡°Miss Harriet,¡± he began, his voice low and trembling. ¡°I heard about what your creature did for young Tam. My wife, she¡¯s been ill for weeks now. Nothing the apothecary¡¯s given her has helped. If there¡¯s any chance...¡± He trailed off, his gaze flicking nervously toward the street. My stomach tightened. I glanced back at Glowbug, who chirped softly from its perch near the hearth. ¡°I¡­ I can try,¡± I said, my voice barely above a whisper. ¡°But you can¡¯t tell anyone. Please.¡± The man nodded fervently, his relief palpable. He led me to his small home on the outskirts of the village, where his wife lay pale and feverish in bed. Glowbug hovered over the woman, and its radiance blossomed like a soft sunrise, a melodic hum weaving through the tense air. I watched in awe as the tension in the woman¡¯s face eased, her ragged gasps steadied, and her colour improved. The man thanked me profusely, pressing a small coin into my hand despite my protests. That encounter was only the beginning. Over the following days, others sought me out in secret. A farmer with a twisted ankle. A mother with a baby who wouldn¡¯t sleep. Each time, I agreed to help¡ª how could I say no to helping, if there was a chance that I could? Despite knowing it was the right thing to do, the weight of the growing rumors and my own uncertainty pressed heavily on me. The tension in Eldston reached a breaking point one crisp evening as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the village. I was outside the tavern, splitting logs for the hearth. The rhythmic thunk of the axe striking wood echoed through the quiet air, punctuated by Glowbug¡¯s occasional chirps from its perch on a nearby fencepost. A sharp, guttural growl shattered the stillness. I froze, my fingers tightening around the axe handle. Glowbug let out an urgent trill, its light flaring as it darted to my shoulder. From the direction of the forest came the unmistakable sound of heavy, lumbering footsteps. Shouts erupted from the village square, followed by the shrill cries of frightened children. I ran toward the commotion with the axe still in my hands, my heart pounding. I reached the square just in time to see a massive creature emerge from the shadows, its grotesque form illuminated by the flickering light of torches. It was a hulking, wolf-like beast with matted fur and eyes that glowed a sickly yellow. Its jaws frothed with gobbets of saliva as it growled, lunging toward a group of villagers scrambling to get away.
Creature: Ulvenworg Danger level: Moderate Recommendation: Flee
Torrin was already there, his bow in hand. He loosed an arrow that struck the beast¡¯s shoulder, eliciting a furious roar. A second arrow grazed the monster¡¯s cheek as it turned on its assailant, snarling. Torrin barely had time to draw a third arrow before the beast lunged, knocking him to the ground. ¡°No!¡± I screamed. Without thinking, I charged. My grip on the axe was slippery with sweat as I closed the distance to the beast. Torrin was pinned beneath its massive paw, blood seeping from a gash in his side. The monster¡¯s snarling maw snapped dangerously close to his face. He held it¡¯s gnashing jaws at bay with a dagger he had pulled from somewhere, and blood trickled down his muscled forearm as he struggled to avoid it¡¯s razor-sharp teeth. ¡°Get away from him!¡± I shouted, raising the axe high. I swung with a desperate cry, the blade biting into the creature¡¯s flank. The beast howled in pain, staggering back and releasing Torrin. It turned its yellow eyes on me, lips curling back to reveal jagged teeth. My heart thundered in my chest, but I held my ground, gripping the axe tightly. The creature lunged at me, and I struck again, this time striking its neck. The blow wasn¡¯t deep enough to kill, but it sent the beast reeling. Glowbug, perched on a nearby lamppost, let out a high-pitched hum. The creature faltered, its head jerking erratically, blinded by Glowbug¡¯s piercing light. I seized the moment, raising the axe over my head for a final swing, and aimed a desperate, log-splitting blow at its skull. The blade connected with the beast¡¯s skull with a sickening crunch, and it collapsed with a heavy thud. I stood over the motionless creature, chest heaving, hands shaking with adrenaline and horror. The axe slipped from my trembling grip, the weight of its bloodied blade dragging down any fragile sense of triumph. Around me, the villagers stared in open-mouthed silence.
You have defeated: Ulvenworg You have gained 160 Experience Points. You have gained a Level. Prerequisites met: You may now select a Class. Available classes: [Apprentice], [Explorer], [Novice Fighter], [Novice Healer], [Survivor] You have been awarded 5 Attribute Points. Distribute points to adjust your Physical, Mental, or Social Attributes.
I dismissed the notification, my attention snapping back to Torrin, who lay groaning on the ground. Glowbug flitted to his side, its light intensifying as it began to hum. The wounds on Torrin¡¯s side slowly knit together, and the slices into his arms closed, the bleeding staunched. Torrin¡¯s eyes fluttered open, his gaze meeting me. ¡°You¡¯ve saved my life,¡± he rasped. ¡°By my honor, I¡¯ll protect yours. Whatever comes, you¡¯ve got me at your side.¡± I swallowed hard, my throat tight with emotion. I wasn¡¯t sure what to do with this sudden oath of loyalty. Was he serious, or did he just mean I could count on him for a favour? Deciding to worry about all of that later, I helped Torrin to his feet as the villagers began to gather around them, their faces a mix of awe and fear. ¡°She killed it,¡± someone murmured. ¡°And that creature of hers¡­ it healed Torrin,¡± another whispered. The whispers grew louder, dividing into murmurs of gratitude and accusations of danger. I felt the weight of their stares, the flickering torchlight casting their faces in sharp relief. Bertha stepped forward, her voice cutting through the din. ¡°Enough! The girl probably saved our hides tonight. Show some respect. Haven¡¯t you all got laundry to be doing or something? Clear off.¡± The crowd fell silent, though the tension remained palpable. My hands clenched into fists at my sides, my mind racing. I had survived the forest, and earned my place in the village, and now a new challenge was laid before me¡ªnavigating the fragile balance between hero and outcast. As I supported Torrin to limp toward The Worn Hearth, I couldn¡¯t help but glance at the system prompt hovering faintly in the corner of my vision. The decision loomed over me. Whatever class I chose, it would shape not just my future, but my place in this unpredictable, perilous world.Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.
Name: Harriet Price Age: 24 Type: Human (Level 1) Titles(0/1): None Classes(0/1): None [Class choice available] Professions(0/1): None Talents(5/10): Basic Identify, Basic Survival Instincts, Basic Crafting, Sense Magic, Basic Endurance Condition: Normal Attributes: Vitality: 54/54 Physical: 12 Mental: 14 Social: 8 Luck: 10 Available Attribute Points: 5 Experience: 60/100
The twang of a bowstring cut through the still evening air, followed by the thud of an arrow striking its target. I flinched slightly at the sound, my grip tightening on the borrowed bow in my hands. Torrin stood beside me, his weathered face calm as he appraised the shot he¡¯d just taken. The arrow quivered in the center of the target, a tightly bound bundle of hay placed several paces away. ¡°Now, your turn,¡± Torrin said, stepping back and gesturing to the bow I held. My fingers brushed the smooth wood. ¡°Are you sure? I¡¯ve never done this before.¡± ¡°That¡¯s the point,¡± Torrin replied, his tone gruff but patient. ¡°You¡¯re not going to learn by staring at it. Go on, nock the arrow.¡± Inhaling deeply, I fumbled to fit the arrow to the string. My movements were clumsy, and the arrow slipped from my fingers twice before I managed to secure it. ¡°Relax,¡± Torrin said, his voice softer. ¡°It¡¯s not going anywhere until you tell it to.¡± I huffed out a laugh. ¡°Easy for you to say.¡± I raised the bow, my arms trembling slightly as I tried to pull the string back. The tension in the bowstring resisted my efforts, and I struggled to draw it fully. ¡°You¡¯re fighting the bow,¡± Torrin said, stepping closer. He placed a hand lightly on my arm to adjust my angle. ¡°Use your back and shoulders, not just your arms. And keep your grip firm but not too tight. Like this.¡± I adjusted my stance, following his guidance. I managed to draw the string back a little further, though my muscles burned with the effort. ¡°Good,¡± Torrin said with a nod. ¡°Now, aim for the target and release.¡± The arrow flew wildly off course. It soared past the target and landed somewhere in the grass beyond. I groaned, lowering the bow as my arms ached. ¡°Not bad for a first shot. We¡¯ll need to work on your strength, though. Keep practicing, and you¡¯ll get there.¡± ¡°If my arms don¡¯t fall off first,¡± I muttered, shaking them out. Torrin chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s why you¡¯re here. Strength doesn¡¯t come overnight. You¡¯ll need it if you ever plan to fend off another Ulvenworg or anything worse. There¡¯s a lot of strange things out there, and most of them are dangerous.¡± As we retrieved my stray arrow, I mentioned my time in the forest. ¡°Talking of strange things, You asked me a while back if I had any information about the forest. I uh¡­ found these fruits once,¡± I said, glancing at Torrin. ¡°Glowfruits. They¡¯re sweet, and they¡­ well, they glow.¡± Torrin¡¯s brow furrowed with interest. ¡°Glowfruits? I¡¯ve heard stories about them. Useful for traveling at night or even bartering in some places. Where did you find them?¡± I hesitated. ¡°Farther into the forest than I should have been,¡± I admitted. ¡°Further than anyone should be. Not near the stones.¡± Torrin¡¯s expression turned serious. ¡°Farther in? You¡¯re lucky you didn¡¯t run into anything bad. That place gets more dangerous the deeper you go. Stay closer to the village if you¡¯re ever out there again.¡± ¡°Believe me, I¡¯m in no rush to go back,¡± I said with a shiver. Torrin nodded. His curiosity seemed to linger as he added, ¡°If you ever do, let me know. I¡¯d be interested in seeing one of those fruits myself if you remember where they are. Anyway, I¡¯ll see you later, don¡¯t you want to go to enjoy the festivities? They¡¯ll be starting up soon.¡± On returning to the centre of Eldston, the atmosphere was almost overwhelming as I wandered through the hustle and bustle. Lanterns hung from poles and trees, their warm glow casting a festive light over the village. Laughter and music echoed around me, and children darted between stalls laden with baked goods, handcrafted trinkets, and colourful ribbons. ¡°It¡¯s quite the event, isn¡¯t it?¡± Bertha said, appearing at my side. She carried a tray of pastries, her face alight with a rare smile. ¡°You should enjoy yourself, lass. You¡¯ve earned a night off to let your hair down.¡± I nodded, though my nerves fluttered. I¡¯d never been fond of crowds, and the lively atmosphere was both inviting and overwhelming. Still, I allowed myself to be drawn into the festivities, sampling Greta¡¯s cakes and watching a troupe of performers juggle flaming torches. ¡°Hattie!¡± A cheerful voice called out. I turned to see the boy that Glowbug had healed, whose name I later learned was Tam, waving me over. ¡°Come dance with us!¡± Before I could protest, Tam and another child grabbed my hands, pulling me into the center of the square. A group of villagers had formed a circle, clapping and stamping their feet in time with the music. I stumbled at first, my movements awkward and hesitant, but the infectious rhythm soon carried me along. For the first time in what must have been years, laughter bubbled up from my belly, unbidden and bright like a forgotten song breaking free. The festival¡¯s music drowned out the shadows of the forest, if only for a while. As the dance ended, I found myself breathless and flushed, my earlier anxieties momentarily forgotten. ¡°You¡¯ve got some moves, lass,¡± Torrin said, appearing beside me with a tankard of cider. His grin was wide, his usual gruff demeanor softened by the festivities. ¡°Didn¡¯t think you had it in you.¡± ¡°Neither did I,¡± I admitted, my heart still racing. I accepted the cider he offered, savoring the crisp, spiced flavor. The village was alive with joy and camaraderie. For me, it was a moment of connection, a glimpse of belonging I hadn¡¯t dared hope for. I lingered near the edge of the festival square, a tankard of spiced cider warming my hands against the cool night air. Lanterns swayed gently in the breeze, their warm glow casting flickering patterns over the cobblestones. The smoky tang of roasted meat and the sharp sweetness of spiced cider filled the air, mingling with the rhythmic clap of boots on cobblestones and bursts of laughter. At the center of it all sat the storyteller, perched on an upturned barrel. His long, weathered cloak billowed slightly as he gestured grandly with a crooked staff, the firelight dancing in his eyes. Around him, a group of children sat cross-legged on the ground, their faces alight with a mixture of awe and mischief. Glowbug nestled in my hood, its soft hum vibrating against my neck, as I edged closer to listen. ¡°And so it was,¡± the storyteller intoned, his voice low and full of gravitas, ¡°that the Tyrant King¡ªwhose name I dare not speak¡ªtransformed himself into a monster. Not just in heart, but in body. His limbs stretched, his eyes burned with an unholy light, and his mouth was filled with teeth sharper than a butcher¡¯s cleaver!¡± He bared his own teeth dramatically, leaning toward the children. A few gasped, while one bold boy in the front row piped up, ¡°Bet he had bad breath, too!¡± The storyteller paused, cocking an eyebrow. ¡°Oh, you¡¯d best believe it, lad. They say his breath could wilt flowers and curdle milk from a mile away!¡± The children erupted into giggles, and the storyteller leaned back with a grin before continuing. ¡°This king¡ªno, this Beast¡ªhungered for power, but it was not enough. His hunger grew and grew until he began to devour entire towns. Villages disappeared overnight, leaving nothing but silence and the faint stink of his foul breath.¡± He mimed a great beast stomping through a village, one hand held high like a claw and the other swiping at invisible houses. One of the younger girls whimpered and clutched her friend¡¯s arm. ¡°But¡­ but someone stopped him, right?¡± ¡°Ah, yes!¡± The storyteller straightened, tapping his staff on the ground for emphasis. ¡°The Twelve! Twelve mighty wizards, each one more powerful than the last, who stood against the Tyrant King. Together, they were the greatest force of magic the world has ever known.¡± He swept his staff through the air as though casting a spell, his voice rising with excitement. ¡°Fire that could melt stone! Water that could drown mountains! Light to banish the deepest shadows! The Twelve stood united against the Beast.¡± A boy with freckles raised his hand. ¡°What about the other magics? Like¡­ sneaky magic? Or magic that makes you really lucky?¡± The storyteller chuckled. ¡°Aye, lad, they had that too. One of them, I heard, was so lucky that he dodged the Beast¡¯s claws a dozen times, even when they came from every direction!¡± He winked, and the boy beamed. ¡°But even with their combined might,¡± the storyteller continued, his voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper, ¡°the Twelve could not destroy him. His power was too great. So they hatched a daring plan¡ªa plan to seal the Tyrant King away forever.¡± He crouched low, drawing the children closer with his whispered words. ¡°They lured him to the great rift, a chasm so deep and dark that even the bravest souls would tremble to look upon it. There, they wove a spell¡ªa spell so powerful it would chain the Tyrant King in the depths of the earth.¡± The storyteller straightened abruptly, slamming the butt of his staff into the ground. The children jumped, their eyes wide. ¡°But such magic demanded a price. The Twelve vanished as the spell was cast. What became of them, no one knows. Perhaps they perished, their very souls burned away to power the seal. Perhaps their magic was stripped from them, leaving only husks behind. Or¡­¡± He leaned in, his voice dropping to a near whisper, ¡°some say they were cast into the rift themselves, sent to a far, faraway world, never to return.¡± ¡°Could they be ghosts?¡± one girl whispered, her voice trembling. ¡°Not ghosts,¡± the storyteller said solemnly, ¡°but maybe something close. Some say that their spirits are bound to the magic they created, their magic echoes still in the power of the standing stones.¡± He gestured toward the edge of the square, where the faint glow of the festival¡¯s central standing stone shimmered in the distance. The children followed his gaze, their faces a mixture of reverence and fear. ¡°Even now,¡± the storyteller said, ¡°the Beast Beneath stirs in his prison. He whispers to the greedy, to the desperate, tempting them with promises of power. And should the standing stones ever falter, should their light fade¡­ he will rise again.¡± A gust of wind swept through the square, making the lanterns flicker. The children shivered, huddling closer together. ¡°But not tonight!¡± The storyteller¡¯s voice broke the tension, warm and bright. ¡°Tonight, we honor the Twelve. We celebrate their courage and their sacrifice. So light your lanterns, children, and let their glow keep the darkness at bay.¡± The children leapt to their feet, chattering excitedly as they rushed to the festival stalls, where lanterns of all colors and shapes awaited. I lingered a moment longer, watching as the storyteller leaned back on his barrel, a satisfied smile on his face. Glowbug hummed softly in my hood, and I touched its side, my thoughts swirling. The tale of the Tyrant King was just a story¡­ wasn¡¯t it? Yet the weight of the standing stones¡¯ light, and the whispers in the dark, felt all too real. Chapter Nine The warmth of the festival lingered into the next day, but not all shared the cheer. My growing reputation¡ªand Glowbug¡¯s healing abilities¡ªhad drawn both admiration and suspicion. As I carried a basket of fresh linens through the village from the washerwoman, I heard the low murmur of voices behind me. ¡°That beast came because of her,¡± a man sharply accused. ¡°Mark my words¡ªshe¡¯s a curse on the village.¡± My steps faltered, my grip tightening on the basket as the hairs pricked up on the back of my neck. I turned to see a small group of villagers gathered near the well, their gazes heavy with distrust. ¡°I didn¡¯t bring the Ulvenworg,¡± I said, my voice shaking but resolute. ¡°I killed it. If I hadn¡¯t, who knows what it would have done?¡± ¡°And how do we know it wasn¡¯t after you in the first place?¡± another villager demanded. ¡°You came from the forest, didn¡¯t you? Who knows what you brought with you?¡± The accusation stung, but I stood my ground. ¡°I didn¡¯t ask to be here,¡± I said, my voice steadying. ¡°But I¡¯ve done everything I can to help. Glowbug healed your children, your families. If you want to blame me, fine. But don¡¯t ignore what I¡¯ve done to help this village.¡± My words left a tense silence in their wake. Torrin¡¯s voice broke it as he stepped forward, his presence commanding. ¡°She¡¯s right,¡± he said, his tone firm. ¡°Harriet¡¯s done more for this village in weeks than some have in years, and if any of you¡¯ve a problem with her, you¡¯ve a problem with me.¡± The villagers exchanged uncertain glances, their hostility waning in the face of Torrin¡¯s support. My heart pounded, but I met their gazes without flinching. As the tavern grew busier, with villagers trickling in for a late supper or a drink after a long day, I moved between tables with practiced care, my confidence growing with each tray I carried. Glowbug remained tucked close to me, its light dimmed to avoid drawing too much attention. Larkin, one of the regulars, called out as I passed his table. ¡°Hattie! Bring us another round, will you? And don¡¯t let Garret water it down this time.¡± Garret, overhearing, growled from behind the bar. ¡°Or maybe you can pay your tab, you scoundrel.¡± The room erupted in laughter, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile as I delivered the drinks. Throughout the evening, I found myself lingering near Torrin¡¯s table. The roguish adventurer sipped his drink, his sharp eyes scanning the room as though cataloging every detail. He caught my gaze and raised an eyebrow. ¡°Something on your mind?¡± he asked. I shook my head. ¡°No, just¡­ thinking.¡± Torrin leaned back in his chair, his expression softening. ¡°You¡¯ve had a rough start, no doubt about it. But you¡¯ve got grit, Harriet. More than most.¡± ¡°Thanks,¡± I said, my cheeks warming as I returned to my tasks. ¡°Just remember,¡± Torrin said, ¡°grit alone won¡¯t keep you alive out there. Learn what you can, trust the right people, and don¡¯t be afraid to take risks.¡± I nodded, tucking his advice away for later. As the evening wound down, I returned to the kitchen to help Bertha clean up. The sounds of the tavern faded into a comfortable hum, mirrored by the contented purring of the Lumora sleeping up in the rafters. The glow of the hearth bathed the tavern¡¯s common room in flickering light and the last of the patrons trickled out into the cool night. The door closed with a low creak, and I exhaled a long breath, grateful for the quiet. My hands still smelled faintly of soap from scrubbing tankards, but the ache in my arms was a comfort¡ªa reminder of work well done. ¡°Well, lass, you¡¯ve been staring at the fire like it¡¯s got answers to all your problems,¡± Bertha said, lowering herself into the chair across from me. She held a steaming cup of tea, her sharp eyes studying me. ¡°Spit it out. What¡¯s weighing on you?¡± I hesitated, my fingers tightening around my own cup. The decision I¡¯d been avoiding pressed heavy on my chest. ¡°It¡¯s the system,¡± I admitted. ¡°I unlocked a class choice.¡± Bertha¡¯s gaze sharpened, and a knowing smile tugged at her lips. ¡°Ah, I thought as much. Killing that Ulvenworg was bound to give you enough experience to get you to Level one.¡± Torrin appeared in the doorway to the kitchen, leaning casually against the frame. I had thought all the customers had already left, but clearly I was wrong. ¡°Class choice, huh? Big step,¡± he said, his tone unreadable. He walked over and pulled out a chair, sitting down beside us. ¡°So, what¡¯s got you stuck?¡± I sighed, setting my teacup down. ¡°I don¡¯t know what to pick. There are so many options, what if I choose wrong? It feels like it could change everything. How do people usually pick?¡± ¡°Depends on their situation.¡± Bertha shrugged. ¡°Some don¡¯t even have a choice until they get to Level five. You know, folks who inherited a Class from a parent. That¡¯s a double-edged sword, they get the benefits of a Class before anyone usually would, but then they don¡¯t get to make a choice for themselves right away. As for your decision, well, first of all, there¡¯s no such thing as a ¡®wrong¡¯ choice. Classes are tools, Hattie. It¡¯s about picking the one that suits your needs right now. What are your options?¡± ¡°Apprentice, Explorer, Novice Fighter, Novice Healer, and Survivor,¡± I listed, trying to keep the shakiness out of my voice. Torrin nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Solid lineup. Let¡¯s break it down.¡± Bertha leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table. ¡°Alright, here¡¯s the gist. Fighters are for combat. Good if you¡¯re planning to protect yourself or others. You¡¯ve already got the guts for it, considering how you took on that Ulvenworg. But if the thought of swinging a weapon every day makes you shudder, maybe it¡¯s not your path.¡± I nodded, the memory of the fight flashing through my mind. ¡°I only picked up that axe because I had to. It didn¡¯t feel¡­ like me.¡± ¡°Fair enough,¡± Torrin said. ¡°What about Healer? Fits with your pet¡¯s abilities. You¡¯ve already used it to help people here.¡± ¡°That¡¯s part of the problem,¡± I admitted. ¡°If I become a Healer, people will expect me to fix everything. What if I can¡¯t? What if I make a mistake?¡± Bertha¡¯s gaze softened. ¡°There¡¯s always a risk with responsibility. But the good you can do often outweighs the fear. Still, it¡¯s not a decision to rush.¡± Torrin leaned back, crossing his arms. ¡°Explorer, then? You might have a taste for adventure. Seeing what¡¯s beyond Eldston, discovering the world?¡± I hesitated. ¡°It¡¯s tempting, but I don¡¯t even know where to start. My map only updates where I¡¯ve been, and the rest is just¡­ black fog.¡± ¡°That¡¯s the point,¡± Torrin said with a faint smile. ¡°Explorers fill in the fog. But it¡¯s not for everyone. A lot of wandering, not much stability.¡± Bertha chimed in. ¡°Then there¡¯s Survivor. Practical. Keeps you alive. It¡¯s about self-reliance, adapting to tough situations. You¡¯ve been surviving since you got here, so it¡¯s already familiar territory.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve considered it,¡± I admitted. ¡°It does seem like a practical choice, considering the things I¡¯ve already been through. But I¡¯m not sure it¡¯s the right choice for me right now.¡± ¡°Which leaves Apprentice,¡± Bertha said, her eyes twinkling. ¡°It doesn¡¯t give you much right away, but it¡¯s flexible. Makes it easier to learn new Talents, pick up professions, and even unlock additional Classes later. It¡¯s for people who want to grow and aren¡¯t afraid of a slow start.¡± Torrin nodded. ¡°She¡¯s right. Apprentice is about long-term potential. If you¡¯re patient, it can lead to just about anything.¡± I glanced at him, curious. ¡°Do you have Apprentice?¡± He shook his head. ¡°No, but I¡¯ve got Survivor. Picked it up a long time ago. It¡¯s simple but effective. It unlocks Basic Survival Instincts, Basic Tracking, or Basic Sneak. If you already have one of those, it upgrades to Intermediate. Saved my skin more times than I can count.¡± ¡°Which did you pick?¡± I asked.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. ¡°Sneak,¡± Torrin said with a grin. ¡°Needed to move unseen, and it worked like a charm. Still does.¡± Bertha chuckled. ¡°And I¡¯ve got Apprentice. Took it when I was young, scrappy, and full of ambition. It let me learn all sorts of Talents quicker than I would have without the Class¡ªswordplay, archery, crafting, field medicine. Adventuring parties loved having me around because I could do a bit of everything.¡± I stared at her, surprised. ¡°You were an adventurer?¡± Bertha grinned. ¡°Not many guess it now, but aye. Spent years on the road, chasing glory and coin. The Adventurer¡¯s Company handled contracts and kept us from getting cheated. It was a good life¡­ most of the time.¡± Her gaze turned wistful. ¡°But I gave it up when I met Garret. He¡¯s the reason I¡¯m here instead of out there.¡± Torrin cleared his throat, drawing my attention back to the present. ¡°So, about leveling,¡± he said. ¡°You¡¯ll need to know how it works if you¡¯re going to make the most of your Class.¡± Bertha nodded. ¡°Your experience tracker updates every time you Level. It¡¯s one hundred experience from Level 0 to Level 1, a hundred again from Level 1 to 2, then two hundred for Level 3, three hundred for Level 4, and so on. The experience needed each time after the second Level is the amount you needed for the two previous levels added together, so progress slows down the higher you go.¡± ¡°And additional Classes?¡± I asked. ¡°After Level one, you can choose to either unlock additional Classes or improve your current Class at Levels that end in five or zero,¡± Bertha explained. ¡°You¡¯ll need open slots on your Status sheet and to meet the prerequisites for the Class you want. Most people stick to improving their first Class for a while before branching out. Keeps things manageable.¡± Torrin leaned forward. ¡°But here¡¯s the catch: You only gain experience from battle. Triumphs in combat. If you¡¯re not planning to fight regularly, you won¡¯t Level quickly, and additional Classes won¡¯t matter as much.¡± I absorbed their words, my mind spinning. ¡°So, it¡¯s about balance. Picking a Class that fits where I am now, but also thinking about where I want to go.¡± ¡°Exactly,¡± Bertha said with a smile. ¡°And remember, Hattie, you¡¯re not alone in this. You¡¯ve got friends to back you up, whatever you decide.¡± The fire crackled, its warmth a comfort against the weight of the decision. Glowbug hummed softly on my shoulder, its light flickering like a heartbeat. Finally, I exhaled and looked up at them. ¡°Apprentice,¡± I said firmly. ¡°That¡¯s my choice. It feels right.¡± Bertha¡¯s smile widened. ¡°Good choice! You¡¯ll do well, and I can give you some tips too.¡± Torrin raised his mug in a silent toast. ¡°To new beginnings.¡±
Class Accepted: Apprentice Talent prerequisites moderately reduced. Class and Profession prerequisites slightly reduced.
¡°Thank you, Torrin, Bertha,¡± I said sincerely. ¡°You really helped me out.¡± ¡°Anytime,¡± Torrin replied. ¡°I still owe you for what you did. Anything I can ever do for you, you just go ahead and ask.¡± Bertha said with a sly smile. ¡°You chose well. Apprentice suits you, and for all that it¡¯s humble, it¡¯s actually a very useful Class.¡± Garret, calling through the kitchen door, said with a chuckle, ¡°Don¡¯t let her flatter you too much, girl. She¡¯s only saying that because she¡¯s got that Class herself!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t listen to him,¡± Bertha said, swatting in his general direction with a dish towel. ¡°He¡¯d rather eat his own boots than give a compliment.¡± I laughed, the tension in my chest easing a little. ¡°Thanks, Bertha. I¡¯ll do my best to live up to your example.¡± ¡°That¡¯s all anyone can ask,¡± Bertha said with a twinkle in her eye. Days turned to weeks, and I felt more and more that Eldston had become something like a home for me. The people here were friendly, and many of them were thrilled to hear that I had picked up the Apprentice Class, some even offering to teach me some of the Talents that they specialised in. The extra work kept me busy, stopped me from thinking about how and why I had been brought to this strange place, and gave me practical things to aim for instead. Bertha was a wealth of information with me taking my first steps as an Apprentice. She had me cooking, cleaning, mending clothes, and trying anything that might unlock a Talent for me. She encouraged me to ask everyone and anyone to help me to make use of my new Class. Within the weeks that followed getting the Apprentice Class, I had gained Basic Cooking, Basic Housekeeping, and Basic Mending from practicing under Bertha¡¯s tutelage, and Basic Archery and Basic Sneak from Torrin. Old Garret had offered to teach me Basic Brewing but said that he wouldn¡¯t be brewing anything until after the next harvest came in, which would be about a month off, and I ended up filling the slot with something else. My hands were deep in a bucket of sudsy water, scrubbing a set of plates from the dinner rush, my knuckles raw from the repetitive motion. Bertha sat nearby, her needle and thread working deftly to patch an old apron. She glanced up at me now and then, her sharp eyes both warm and watchful. ¡°You¡¯re getting the hang of it,¡± she said, nodding at the stack of clean plates. ¡°Not bad for someone who¡¯s clearly had a rough start.¡± I bit back a wry smile. ¡°Guess I¡¯m learning as I go. Better than sitting around and thinking about¡­ everything else.¡± Bertha¡¯s fingers stilled for a moment on the apron, her gaze flicking to the fire. She didn¡¯t press, which I appreciated. Instead, she leaned back in her chair, her needlework resting on her lap, and let out a long sigh. ¡°Funny, isn¡¯t it? The way life turns out.¡± I tilted my head, rinsing another plate. ¡°How do you mean?¡± She chuckled softly, a sound like gravel rolling under a cart. ¡°Most people in this village think I¡¯ve always been Bertha from the Worn Hearth. They see me bustling around here, barking orders at Garret, cooking stew, and think that¡¯s all there is to me. But now you know that I wasn¡¯t always tied to this place.¡± Setting the last plate on the drying rack, I wiped my hands on my apron and sat on the edge of the nearest chair. I nodded, setting the last plate on the drying rack. ¡°You were an adventurer. I¡­ didn¡¯t expect that. Not that you couldn¡¯t be, but¡­ it¡¯s hard to imagine you anywhere but here.¡± Bertha¡¯s laugh was soft but genuine. ¡°I hear that a lot. I suppose I¡¯ve put down roots so deep they¡¯ve tangled around my boots. But it wasn¡¯t always like this. I was restless back then, always chasing contracts and coin. Never thought I¡¯d stop running, let alone settle down.¡± Her grin widened. ¡°As you know, my first class was Apprentice. Useful enough to any party in need of a jack-of-all-trades, but I didn¡¯t stay in that role for long. There¡¯s only so much hauling supplies and patching tents a person can do before they start picking up real skills.¡± Her hands mimed the actions of shooting a bow, wielding a sword, and crafting something delicate, the movements fluid despite her age. ¡°Adventuring parties liked having me around. I learned quick¡ªbasic swordplay, bowmanship, field medicine, lockpicking. You name it, I probably had a Talent for it.¡± ¡°Sounds like you¡¯d be in high demand,¡± I said, leaning forward. ¡°Oh, I was,¡± she replied, her tone carrying a hint of pride. ¡°It was a good life¡­ most of the time. Plenty of danger, sure, but also plenty of coin. The Adventurer¡¯s Company made sure of that. Ever heard of them?¡± I shook my head. ¡°No, but it sounds important.¡± ¡°It is,¡± Bertha said, her voice taking on a teacherly tone. ¡°The Company¡¯s an organization that handles the administrative mess that comes with adventuring¡ªcontracts, bounties, equipment requisitions. They¡¯re also the ones who ensure we don¡¯t get cheated by unscrupulous clients. Adventurers focus on the work and getting stronger, while the Company handles the rest. Saved me plenty of headaches.¡± I nodded, imagining the logistics of such a system. It made sense. ¡°So why did you stop?¡± Bertha¡¯s smile softened, and she leaned back, her eyes misting over. ¡°Garret.¡± ¡°Your husband?¡± She nodded, her fingers resuming their work on the apron. ¡°Met him on a quest. My party had taken a contract to hunt a Shadow Ghast in the cursed forest¡ªa nasty piece of work¡ªglowing red eyes that saw right through you, and too many limbs to make sense of.¡± I shuddered, knowing all too well what a Shadow Ghast was like, and felt all the more thankful that I had managed to evade the thing. ¡°It moved fast, all claws and snapping teeth. One wrong step, and it¡¯d tear you apart. It¡¯s the kind of creature that¡¯ll get you if you¡¯re not careful, and I wasn¡¯t careful enough. It got me in the leg, tore me up good. My party dragged me back to Eldston, half-dead and delirious. That¡¯s where I met Garret.¡± Her smile grew wistful, her needle pausing mid-stitch. ¡°We weren¡¯t much older than you back then. He was broad-shouldered, quick with a joke, and annoyingly persistent. He kept showing up at the healer¡¯s hut, bringing me soup, telling me stories about the village. Before I knew it, I was in love.¡± I tried to picture Bertha as a younger woman, fierce and adventurous, falling for the affable Garret. It wasn¡¯t as hard as I¡¯d expected. ¡°So you decided to stay?¡± ¡°Took me a while to admit it,¡± she admitted, her laughter soft. ¡°Retiring wasn¡¯t easy. I¡¯d spent years on the road, chasing glory and coin. But Garret was worth it. He grounded me, gave me a reason to stop running. We built this place together, brick by brick, and I¡¯ve never regretted it.¡± The tavern door creaked open, and Garret himself appeared, wiping his hands on a rag. ¡°You telling her about the time you got yourself half-eaten by a Shadow Ghast?¡± he asked, his grin mischievous. ¡°Don¡¯t make it sound worse than it was,¡± Bertha shot back, though her eyes sparkled. ¡°Or I¡¯ll tell her the part where you fainted when you saw the stitches.¡± ¡°Fainted? Never happened,¡± Garret said, winking at me. ¡°But I suppose I¡¯ll admit that she¡¯s where our boy got all his strength. My wonderful warrior wife.¡± Bertha smirked. ¡°And his good looks? That¡¯s me, too.¡± Garret shrugged. ¡°Fine, fine. I¡¯ll take credit for his sense of humor.¡± I couldn¡¯t help but laugh, the sound mingling with the pop and hiss of the fire. Bertha reached for her needle and thread again, while Garret, still grinning, leaned against the counter. Plates clinked softly in the kitchen as someone moved about, and the steady hum of the tavern wrapped around us like a well-worn quilt.
Name: Harriet Price Age: 24 Type: Human (Level 1) Titles(0/1): None Classes(1/1): Apprentice Professions(0/1): None Talents(10/10): Basic Archery, Basic Crafting, Basic Cooking, Basic Endurance, Basic Housekeeping, Basic Identify, Basic Mending, Basic Survival Instincts, Basic Sneak, Sense Magic Condition: Normal Attributes: Vitality: 58/58 Physical: 15 Mental: 16 Social: 10 Luck: 10 Experience: 60/100
Chapter Ten I had been living in Eldston for three months when the merchant caravan came, bringing with it rare goods, and news from around Kaldaris. It was the talk of the tavern that evening, and I couldn¡¯t help but overhear. People on the whole seemed to be getting used to my presence. Because I was trying to make use of my Apprentice Class as much as possible, those who had a heavy workload were always happy to see me and offer me some odd jobs and training in my Talents and Attributes, in exchange for some coin. Bertha had insisted I ask for payment for any work I do, after hearing that I had been doing odd jobs for free. ¡°You need to be paid for working, you can¡¯t go around breaking your back for ungrateful sods with nothing to show for it at the end. Training a Talent isn¡¯t payment, that¡¯s something you earn by yourself. Where would we all be if everyone just did work for some progression and no pay? Starving in the gutter, that¡¯s where!¡± She had said, ¡°No, you ask for some coin, and if they have a problem with paying you, just send them my way. They won¡¯t like being barred from the tavern!¡± I was grateful to Bertha for forcing me to see the worth of my labour. Thanks to that, and my hard work, I had started saving up a little bit of money, which was always a nice thing to have for a ¡®rainy day¡¯. Should I need it, I would have enough money for supplies for a journey, a nice gift for a special occasion, or even the humble start of saving for a home of my own one day. Okay, maybe that last idea was going a little too far. It would definitely take a long time to save that much. But it would have been nice to have a space that was truly mine again. My bedroom at the Worn Hearth was great, don¡¯t get me wrong, and I was so thankful to Old Garret and Bertha for letting me stay there¡ª but it wasn¡¯t mine, not really. It wasn¡¯t somewhere I would have chosen for myself, and although I felt happy enough there, I never felt I belonged there. Not for forever, anyway. It was perhaps a combination of these feelings, and the news that came with the merchants that made me make the decision to leave Eldston. The travelers had come from the next town over, with news that one of the smaller villages had been burned to the ground by bounty hunters. They had been looking for a child who was rumoured to have shown some magical talent, and the hunters had torn apart the entire settlement looking for them. Hearing this had happened, and so close to Eldston, chilled me to my core. What if they heard about Glowbug? If these bounty hunters heard about a strange girl who appeared from the cursed forest, who had a pet with magical abilities, they would certainly come looking for her. For me. I won¡¯t let Eldston be torn apart and burned down on my account. There was no way I could put these people who had been so kind to me in danger. I wrote a note for Bertha and left it on the little table in my room, a poor substitute for a proper goodbye, but it was all I could manage. I couldn¡¯t face her disappointment or the arguments she would have made to keep me from leaving. I packed what few belongings I had, and snuck away in the small hours of the morning, with Glowbug tucked away in the hood of my cloak. From what I had heard from Bertha about the capital city, Dawnspire, it was a safe place for those with magical Talents. It had a long history of Mage families living there, and the army¡¯s presence was enough to warn any Bounty hunters or other unsavoury sorts from causing any trouble. With a destination in mind, and my pack slung over my shoulders, I set off on the road to Dawnspire. One day, perhaps I would return to Eldston, to its ramshackle houses and uneven cobblestones, and to its people, who had earned a place in my heart with their kindness and laughter. The faint crunch of gravel underfoot filled the quiet morning air. The landscape around me had shifted from the open plains around Eldston to rolling hills that rose and fell gently in the distance. The forest lingered as a dark green line on the horizon, but with every step, I left its dangers further behind. A cool breeze ruffled my cloak, and I tugged it tighter around me, feeling Glowbug¡¯s soft hum of contentment against the back of my neck where it nestled in my hood. The road unraveled like a thread through a tapestry of rolling hills, and over each and every hill were fresh sights and new possibilities. My pack sat heavy on my shoulders, filled with the bare essentials: a few days¡¯ worth of food, a waterskin, and the savings I had managed to scrape together during my time in Eldston. Leaving that little village had been a hard decision, but I couldn¡¯t let my presence put them in danger. The stories of bounty hunters burning entire villages in their pursuit of magic users had been enough to make up my mind. If they ever heard of Glowbug, of me, Eldston could be next. I couldn¡¯t let that happen. The thought sent a pang of guilt through my chest, and I found myself glancing over my shoulder as if expecting to see Bertha chasing after me, demanding an explanation. But there was only the empty road behind me, the village long since out of sight. I sighed, turning my attention back to the path ahead. ¡°We¡¯ll be alright,¡± I murmured, reaching up to give Glowbug a gentle pat through the fabric of my hood. ¡°Just you and me now, buddy.¡± Glowbug chirped softly in response, its light pulsing faintly against my neck. The sound was comforting, a reminder that I wasn¡¯t alone. Still, solitude felt strange after months of bustling tavern life, of voices and laughter filling the air. I thought back to my first days in Eldston, how awkward and out of place I had felt, and how the villagers had slowly accepted me. The thought brought a bittersweet smile to my lips. I would come back if it was ever safe, but that day wasn¡¯t today. The day passed in a haze of walking and quiet reflection. The rhythm of my footsteps became a meditative beat, carrying me forward as the sun climbed higher in the sky. Memories of the forest flashed through my mind: the bone-deep cold, the endless hunger, the constant fear of what might be lurking just out of sight. Compared to that, this journey felt easy, like I was just on a hiking holiday. I had food, I had water, and I had Glowbug. And with my goals set in my mind, I felt like I knew what I was doing. By mid-afternoon, the sun hung high overhead, its warmth beating down on me. I found a shady spot under a large tree by the side of the road and sat down to rest, pulling out a piece of bread and a slice of cheese from my pack. As I ate, Glowbug flitted out of my hood, its light dim in the daylight. It hovered nearby, humming softly as if to keep me company. ¡°You know,¡± I said, tearing off another piece of bread, ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about how far we¡¯ve come. Back in the forest, I didn¡¯t know if we¡¯d even survive the first night. And now look at us. On the road, heading to¡­ well, somewhere.¡± I paused, glancing at the horizon. ¡°Dawnspire¡¯s still a long way off, though. I hope we¡¯re ready for it.¡± Glowbug chirped, its tones bright and reassuring. I chuckled. ¡°Thanks for the vote of confidence, buddy. I¡¯ll try to keep it together.¡± The rest of the afternoon passed uneventfully, the road stretching on in its unyielding monotony. My thoughts wandered, flitting between memories of Eldston and half-formed worries about what lay ahead. As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, casting the world in shades of gold and amber, I started to look for a place to camp for the night. I found a small clearing just off the road, sheltered by a cluster of trees. The ground was soft and relatively flat, and a nearby stream provided fresh water. Setting down my pack, I began the routine of setting up camp: gathering firewood, clearing a spot for the fire, and arranging my meager belongings for the night. Glowbug hovered nearby, its light growing brighter as the shadows deepened. As I sat by the crackling fire, staring into the dancing flames, a rustling sound from the nearby trees caught my attention. My heart jumped into my throat, and I scrambled to my feet, gripping the small dagger Torrin had insisted I carry in my boot after what had happened with the Ulvenworg. The rustling grew louder, and to my astonishment, a familiar figure emerged from the shadows, his grin visible even in the dimming light.You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. ¡°So,¡± Torrin said, his voice carrying an edge of humor, ¡°You were going to leave without saying goodbye?¡± I stared, caught between exasperation and relief. ¡°Torrin? What are you doing here?¡± ¡°What does it look like?¡± He stepped closer, his dark eyes glinting with amusement. ¡°I¡¯m following you. Did you really think you could sneak off without me noticing?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t want you to follow me,¡± I bit out the words, ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous. The bounty hunters¡ª¡± ¡°Are exactly why you shouldn¡¯t be out here alone,¡± he interrupted. ¡°You¡¯ll need help, whether you like it or not. And lucky for you, I¡¯m excellent company.¡± Despite myself, I felt a reluctant smile tugging at my lips. ¡°Fine,¡± I muttered. ¡°But don¡¯t slow me down.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll try to keep up,¡± he said with a wink, settling down by the fire. ¡°Let¡¯s see where this road takes us. Where are we going? Was there a plan, or did you just start walking?¡± As we settled in for the night, the tension between us eased, replaced by a quiet camaraderie. I couldn¡¯t deny that having Torrin around made me feel safer, even if I was too stubborn to admit it out loud. As the fire crackled and the moons hung brightly overhead, the road ahead felt a little less daunting with Torrin beside me. The morning air was crisp as Torrin and I resumed our journey, now as a party. The road stretched ahead like an unspooling ribbon, its dusty surface edged with wildflowers and gnarled roots that spilled from the hedgerows. Glowbug¡¯s light was faint, tucked safely into my hood as I had told it to. I didn¡¯t need to see the little creature to feel its presence; its soft hum was a comforting rhythm against the back of my neck. Torrin walked slightly ahead, his stride confident and easy. He carried himself as though the weight of the road meant little to him, and I tried to match his pace. The monotony of the road soon drew my attention inward. ¡°You¡¯re quiet,¡± Torrin remarked, glancing over his shoulder. I shrugged. ¡°Just thinking.¡± ¡°About?¡± I struggled to find the words, unsure if I wanted to voice my worries. Finally, I said, ¡°Eldston. Whether I did the right thing, leaving.¡± Torrin¡¯s expression softened. ¡°You did. Staying would¡¯ve put them in danger. This way, they¡¯re safe, and you¡¯re not alone. I¡¯d call that a win.¡± His reassurance didn¡¯t fully quiet my doubts, but I nodded all the same. I let the conversation lapse into silence, focusing instead on the rhythmic crunch of our footsteps. By midday, we passed a group of travelers headed in the opposite direction. The small caravan consisted of a rickety cart pulled by a weary-looking mule and three people walking beside it. The travelers wore patched clothing and carried bundles of supplies strapped to their backs. One of them, a stout woman with a weathered face, waved as they passed. ¡°Good day to you,¡± she called. ¡°Where¡¯s the road taking you?¡± Torrin answered before I could. ¡°Redhill,¡± he said with an easy smile. The woman¡¯s smile faltered slightly. ¡°You might want to watch your step if you¡¯re headed that way. Bounty hunters have been stirring up trouble in the smaller villages. Burned one to the ground. We passed it on the road up the way, You¡¯ll see when you come to it.¡± My stomach twisted, but I kept my face neutral. ¡°Thank you for the warning,¡± I said. The woman nodded and moved on, her companions trailing behind. Torrin and I continued in silence for a while, the news that we could be walking towards danger before we got to the safety of Dawnspire settling heavily between us. Two long days of walking later, the terrain had changed. The rolling hills gave way to flatlands dotted with patches of scrub and the occasional copse of trees. The air grew heavier, carrying with it a faint acrid tang. My unease grew with each step, and even Glowbug¡¯s hum sounded subdued. The first sign of the ruined village was the charred remains of a wagon lying abandoned by the roadside. Its splintered frame and blackened wheels stood out markedly against the vibrant green of the surrounding grass. I stopped, my breath catching in my throat. ¡°We¡¯re close,¡± Torrin said grimly, his hand resting on the hilt of his shortsword. We continued cautiously, the scent of ash and scorched earth growing stronger. The village came into view suddenly, its ruins stark against the horizon. Blackened beams jutted skyward like broken bones, and the ground was littered with the debris of shattered lives. The air was silent, the usual sounds of birds and insects conspicuously absent. I stepped forward, the crunch of ash and debris beneath my boots seeming unbearably loud. My chest felt tight, my throat constricted as I tried to imagine what this place had been before¡ªa thriving community, full of laughter and life. Now, it was nothing but ashes and dirt. ¡°They didn¡¯t spare anything,¡± Torrin said quietly, his voice thick with anger. ¡°This is why I left Eldston,¡± I whispered. ¡°I can¡¯t let this happen to them.¡± Torrin turned to me, his expression grim. ¡°And you think walking this road alone would¡¯ve stopped it?¡± Tears pricked at my eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t know. But I can¡¯t¡­ I can¡¯t let something like this happen because of me.¡± ¡°You won¡¯t,¡± he said firmly. ¡°Because I¡¯m not going to let it come to that. I gave my word, Harriet. I¡¯ll stand by you. Whatever comes.¡± His words settled over me like a fragile shield. I nodded, my vision blurred as he pulled me into a steadying embrace. Together, we stood amidst the ashes, mourning for the lives lost and steeling ourselves for what lay ahead. When we finally turned back to the road, the fire-scarred village was behind us, but its memory lingered like a shadow, pushing us onward toward whatever lay ahead. As the sun began its descent, we approached another settlement nestled in a shallow valley. This one was untouched by the horrors we¡¯d just seen. Smoke curled lazily from chimneys, and the market square bustled with activity. The normalcy felt jarring after the silence of the burned village. ¡°We¡¯ll keep our heads down and camp a ways off from the village later,¡± Torrin said as we stopped just outside the village. ¡°No unnecessary attention.¡± I nodded, pulling my hood lower to conceal Glowbug, who nestled quietly in the folds of fabric. The little creature seemed subdued, its usual hum barely audible. We ventured into the village cautiously, keeping to the edges of the market square. I purchased fresh bread and cheese while Torrin stocked up on dried meats. We filled our waterskins at the well, avoiding lingering conversations or curious glances. The warnings from the travelers and the sight of the burned village had made us wary. As we prepared to leave, a child darted out from behind a stall, nearly colliding with me. ¡°Sorry, miss,¡± he mumbled, his wide eyes flicking to my hood before he hurried off. I glanced at Torrin, who gave a slight shake of his head. We didn¡¯t need trouble. Back on the road, the sun touched the horizon, casting the world in hues of gold and amber. The stale scent of ash still clung to my clothes. We didn¡¯t speak much as we walked, the weight of the burned village hung heavy between us. The quiet was broken only by the crunch of gravel underfoot and the occasional chirp from Glowbug. Ahead, the road stretched into the fading light, its winding path pulling us forward. The silence between us wasn¡¯t empty¡ªit was measured, watchful, as if every crunch of gravel underfoot marked a promise to be ready for whatever lay beyond the next bend.
Name: Harriet Price Age: 24 Type: Human (Level 1) Titles(0/1): None Classes(1/1): Apprentice Professions(0/1): None Talents(10/10): Basic Archery, Basic Cooking, Basic Endurance, Basic Mending, Basic Sneak, Basic Survival Instincts, Intermediate Crafting, Intermediate Housekeeping, Intermediate Identify, Sense Magic Condition: Normal Attributes: Vitality: 65/65 Physical: 16 Mental: 17 Social: 12 Luck: 11 Experience: 60/100
Chapter Eleven The air felt heavy, like it was holding its breath. I adjusted the pack on my shoulders and glanced at the sky. Dark clouds gathered on the horizon, their edges tinged with a menacing purple hue. A low rumble of thunder rolled in the distance, faint but growing closer. ¡°Storm¡¯s coming,¡± Torrin said, his voice flat as he walked a few paces ahead of me. He didn¡¯t break stride, but his hand shifted to rest on the hilt of his sword, a habit he couldn¡¯t seem to shake. ¡°We should find shelter soon,¡± I replied, quickening my pace to keep up with him. Glowbug hummed faintly from the hood of my cloak, its light dimmed to almost nothing. It was a small comfort, even though the little creature wasn¡¯t likely to be much help against lightning and rain. Torrin nodded but didn¡¯t look back. His gaze was fixed on the road ahead, where the dirt path wound its way through a shallow valley. The trees that lined the sides of the road were sparse in this stretch, their twisted branches reaching out like skeletal fingers. There wouldn¡¯t be much cover here if the storm broke. I was about to suggest we pick up the pace when Torrin suddenly stopped. He held up a hand, signaling me to halt. I froze mid-step, watching as he tilted his head slightly, listening. After a moment, he turned and stepped off the road, gesturing for me to follow. His movements were deliberate but quiet, and I mimicked him as best I could, my heart pounding. We crouched low behind a cluster of thick bushes. Torrin motioned toward the road behind us. ¡°Look,¡± he murmured, his voice barely audible over the rising wind. At first, I saw nothing. Then, in the distance, a wagon appeared, trundling up the road toward us. It was flanked by three riders, their mounts moving with the steady gait of seasoned warhorses. The wagon itself was enclosed, its sides reinforced with heavy iron bars. A faint metallic clinking carried on the wind, like chains rattling against one another. ¡°Bounty hunters,¡± Torrin said, his tone grim. I swallowed hard, feeling a knot tighten in my stomach. ¡°You¡¯re sure?¡± ¡°That¡¯s not a farmer¡¯s wagon,¡± he replied. ¡°And those riders aren¡¯t traders. Too well-armed, too disciplined. Look at how they keep formation. They¡¯re guarding something.¡± I squinted at the wagon, trying to make out more details. The riders wore mismatched armor, but their weapons were well-maintained and ready at their sides. One of them carried a long spear, its tip glinting even in the overcast light. Another had a crossbow slung across their back, the bolts neatly tucked into a quiver at their hip. These weren¡¯t amateurs. Torrin¡¯s hand tightened on the hilt of his sword. ¡°Stay low. Let them pass.¡± I nodded, crouching deeper into the bushes. My breathing was shallow as the wagon drew closer, the creak of its wheels and the steady clop of hooves growing louder. I¡¯d seen enough bounty hunters in Eldston to know they were dangerous, but this felt different. There was something colder about these men¡ªefficient, professional, and entirely unyielding. As the wagon passed, I noticed movement behind the iron bars. Shapes shifted in the dim interior, the faint outlines of people huddled together. My chest tightened as I caught a glimpse of a small hand clutching one of the bars, fingers thin and pale. Glowbug stirred in my hood, its hum growing slightly louder. My Sense Magic flared to life, a faint but unmistakable tingle spreading through my chest. I focused on the wagon, narrowing my vision as I activated my Inspect Talent. Words flickered faintly in the corner of my sight, almost too quick to process.v
Captives: Magic users, various Types Condition: Suppressed. Age Range: Child to Elderly.
The blood drained from my face. ¡°Torrin,¡± I whispered urgently, leaning close. ¡°There are children in that wagon.¡± He didn¡¯t look at me, his eyes still locked on the passing caravan. ¡°Stay quiet,¡± he muttered. ¡°No, you don¡¯t understand,¡± I insisted, my voice trembling. ¡°They¡¯re magic users. My Sense Magic picked it up. There are kids in there, Torrin. We can¡¯t just let this go.¡± He finally turned to me, his expression hard. ¡°And what do you suggest we do? There are three armed riders, and we don¡¯t know how many more inside that wagon. You want to charge in and get yourself killed?¡± I clenched my fists, frustration boiling beneath my fear. ¡°We have to do something. We can¡¯t just let them take those kids. Who knows what they¡¯ll do to them just because they have magic?¡± Torrin¡¯s jaw tightened. He looked back at the wagon, which was now moving farther down the road. The riders seemed relaxed, their weapons resting at their sides, but their watchful gazes swept the area with practiced precision. ¡°Wait,¡± Torrin said finally. ¡°We follow them. At a distance. When the storm hits, they¡¯ll have to stop. That¡¯s when we act.¡± I exhaled, relief mixing with the knot of anxiety in my chest. ¡°Alright. But we¡¯re not leaving them, Torrin.¡± He gave me a sharp look, then nodded once. ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out. But we do this quietly, and we do it my way. No heroics, Worgslayer.¡± I nodded, though my mind was already racing ahead, trying to think of how we could free the captives. The wagon was nearly out of sight now, the riders blending into the growing haze of the storm. Torrin motioned for me to follow, and we slipped back onto the road, keeping low as we trailed the caravan from a safe distance. The first raindrops began to fall, cold and fat against my skin, as the storm closed in. The first raindrops began to fall, cold and fat against my skin, as the storm closed in. The rumble of thunder grew louder, and the wind picked up, carrying the scent of rain and distant lightning. Torrin¡¯s pace quickened, his movements deliberate but careful as he kept us just within sight of the wagon. The bounty hunters ahead didn¡¯t seem to notice us, their focus trained on the road and the worsening weather. Glowbug¡¯s hum faded into a soft vibration against my neck, as though the little creature sensed the need for absolute quiet. Torrin gestured for me to stay close, his hand tightening around the hilt of his sword. ¡°Keep low,¡± he whispered. ¡°And watch your footing.¡± The road became slick with mud as the rain intensified. Torrin moved with practiced ease, but I struggled to keep my balance, my boots sliding with each step. The wagon ahead slowed, the wheels groaning as they sank into the softening ground. One of the riders dismounted, cursing as he inspected the axle. ¡°They¡¯ll stop soon,¡± Torrin murmured, crouching behind a fallen log. I joined him, my heart pounding as I peered through the rain. The bounty hunters were clearly agitated, shouting over the storm as they debated their next move. Finally, the leader, a stocky man with a scar running down his cheek, barked an order. The riders began unpacking tarps and setting up a makeshift camp by the roadside. ¡°This is it,¡± Torrin said. ¡°We wait until they¡¯re settled, then we move.¡± I nodded, wiping rain from my face as I scanned the camp. The bounty hunters were efficient, their movements practiced as they secured the wagon and tethered their horses. Two of them lit a fire, the orange glow flickering against the stormy backdrop. My stomach twisted as I spotted the captives huddled in the wagon, their silhouettes barely visible through the bars. ¡°What¡¯s the plan?¡± I asked, my voice barely audible over the storm. Torrin¡¯s eyes narrowed as he studied the camp. ¡°Glowbug.¡± I stiffened. ¡°What about Glowbug?¡± ¡°We use it as a distraction,¡± he said. ¡°The bounty hunters won¡¯t be able to resist investigating something strange and glowing in the dark. While they¡¯re occupied, I¡¯ll pick the lock on the wagon and get the captives out.¡± I hesitated, the idea of sending Glowbug into danger making my chest tighten. But I couldn¡¯t deny the logic. ¡°And me?¡± ¡°You keep the kids quiet and watch my back. If anyone notices what we¡¯re doing, we¡¯ll need to act fast.¡± The rain poured harder as we waited for the bounty hunters to settle in. They posted two guards, one pacing the perimeter and the other stationed near the wagon. The rest gathered around the fire, their laughter and coarse jokes cutting through the storm. I clenched my fists, the sight of their casual camaraderie sickening me. When Torrin finally moved, it was with the fluidity of a shadow. He gestured for Glowbug, and I sent a mental command. The little creature¡¯s light brightened, casting a soft glow that danced through the trees. Glowbug darted out from my hood and hovered just beyond the camp¡¯s edge, its movements erratic and enticing.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. ¡°What the hell is that?¡± one of the guards said, squinting through the rain. ¡°Go check it out,¡± another growled, nudging him with an elbow. The first guard hesitated, then began trudging toward the glow, his weapon drawn. A second bounty hunter joined him, the two disappearing into the trees in pursuit of Glowbug. Torrin shot me a quick glance, his expression tense but determined. ¡°Now,¡± he mouthed. We moved quickly but quietly. Torrin reached the wagon first, his lockpicks already in hand. I crouched near the rear wheel, keeping an eye on the remaining guard. The man¡¯s attention was divided between the fire and the darkened forest, his posture relaxed but alert. My heart hammered in my chest as I willed him to stay put. Torrin worked with practiced precision, the lock clicking faintly under his skilled hands. The captives inside stirred, their faces pale and gaunt in the dim light. I pressed a finger to my lips, signaling them to stay quiet. A young boy clung to an older girl, his wide eyes brimming with fear. My chest ached as I crouched closer, whispering softly. ¡°It¡¯s alright. We¡¯re getting you out. Just stay calm, okay?¡± The girl nodded, her arms tightening protectively around the boy. The lock gave way with a soft clink, and Torrin eased the cage door open. The captives began to climb out, their movements slow and cautious. I helped the younger children, guiding them to a nearby cluster of bushes where they could hide while we freed the others. The guard by the fire suddenly turned, his gaze snapping to the wagon. His eyes widened as he took in the open door and the fleeing captives. ¡°Hey!¡± he shouted, reaching for his weapon. Torrin moved like lightning, his sword flashing as he closed the distance. The guard barely had time to react before Torrin¡¯s blade struck, the wet sound of steel meeting flesh making my stomach churn. The man crumpled, his weapon clattering to the ground. I barely had time to process what had happened before a strong arm yanked me backward. I gasped as another bounty hunter grabbed me from behind, his grip crushing against my shoulders. Instinct took over. I plunged and twisted the dagger from my boot into his thigh. He howled, loosening his grip just enough for me to break free.2 Before he could recover, Torrin¡¯s dagger flew through the air, burying itself in the man¡¯s eye with a wet thud. The bounty hunter dropped like a stone, his scream cut short. My breath came in ragged gasps as Torrin retrieved his blade with a practiced motion, wiping it clean on the man¡¯s cloak. ¡°Move,¡± Torrin ordered, his voice sharp. He was already scanning for the other guards. I helped the last of the children out of the wagon, the older captives forming a protective cluster around them as we hurried into the cover of the forest. The rain masked the sound of our escape, but I didn¡¯t dare look back.
Your party has defeated: Human x2 You have gained 55 Experience Points. You have gained a Level. Available Attribute Points: 5
I dismissed the notification immediately, focusing instead on guiding the captives through the thick underbrush. The storm pressed in from all sides, and the distant shouts of the remaining bounty hunters were muffled by the roar of rain and wind. I sent a mental command to Glowbug: Hide. Dim your light. Find me when it¡¯s safe. Off in the distance, the little creature¡¯s glow faded to almost nothing, vanishing into the shadows as if it were never there. I turned my attention back to the group, helping the children settle as we prepared to move again. Torrin took the lead, his steps swift and purposeful. I stayed near the middle of the group, my eyes darting between the children and the shadows around us. The captives moved as quickly as they could, their fear driving them forward despite the mud and underbrush. The storm pressed in from all sides, and the distant shouts of the remaining bounty hunters were muffled by the roar of rain and wind. When Torrin finally signaled for us to stop, the captives collapsed onto the damp ground, their breaths coming in ragged gasps. I knelt beside the youngest children, whispering reassurances as I checked them for injuries. Torrin stood a few paces away, his sword still in hand, his eyes scanning the darkened forest for any sign of pursuit. The rain continued to fall in a relentless curtain, soaking through every layer of clothing and turning the forest floor into a slick, muddy mess. We pressed forward through the underbrush, the captives moving in a huddled group behind Torrin. I felt a rush of relief when Glowbug reappeared. It hovered briefly, shaking the rain from its fur and feathers in a flurry of droplets before nestling once more in the safety of my hood. Its faint purring was barely audible over the rain, but its presence was comforting. ¡°We can¡¯t stay on the roads,¡± Torrin said, his voice cutting through the sound of the downpour. He stopped to look over his shoulder at the group, water dripping from his hair and the tip of his nose. ¡°The bounty hunters will send riders ahead to cut us off. We¡¯ll take the forest paths. It¡¯s slower, but it¡¯s safer.¡± A few of the captives murmured nervously, glancing at each other. Torrin didn¡¯t wait for their agreement. He turned and began cutting a path through the undergrowth, his blade slicing cleanly through low-hanging branches. As we walked, the tension among the group was palpable. Some of the captives were holding hands, clinging to each other for comfort. A middle-aged man stumbled beside me, his eyes glassy with exhaustion. I wanted to say something to reassure them, but words felt inadequate. After a time, Torrin called for a halt under the shelter of a large tree. ¡°We¡¯ll deal with the suppression collars now,¡± he said, gesturing for the group to gather around. He knelt and set to work on the first captive, a woman with a young child clutching her leg. Using a fine tool from his kit, Torrin pried open the mechanism of the collar with deft precision. It clicked open, and the woman gasped as it fell away. She touched her neck gingerly, her eyes filling with tears. ¡°Thank you,¡± she whispered. Torrin nodded curtly and moved on to the next person. One by one, the collars were removed and tossed into the bushes. Torrin passed me one of his picks, and I busied myself freeing a young boy who sat quietly beside his sister. His collar was rusted and worn, and I hadn¡¯t gotten the Lockpicking Talent yet. After some effort, and probably by accident rather than any skill on my part, the collar finally popped open. The boy looked at me with wide eyes, then down at his hands as though expecting them to do something miraculous. His sister squeezed his shoulder, her expression protective. Once the last collar had been dealt with, the group broke into murmured discussions. Several of the captives began talking about returning to their village. ¡°We have to go back,¡± one man insisted. ¡°My family might still be there. My wife¡­¡± ¡°Going back is suicide,¡± Torrin said sharply, rising to his feet. He wiped his hands on his cloak and fixed the man with a hard stare. ¡°The bounty hunters will go straight to the village once they realize you¡¯re gone. If they find you there, they won¡¯t bother putting you back in the wagon. They¡¯ll kill you and burn the place to the ground for good measure.¡± ¡°But my family¡ª¡± the man started, his voice trembling. ¡°There¡¯s nothing left there,¡± Torrin interrupted. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but that¡¯s the truth.¡± The man¡¯s shoulders sagged, and he turned away, his face crumpling in despair. A few others in the group exchanged uneasy glances. One woman, clutching a bundle to her chest, stepped forward. ¡°I¡¯ll take my chances,¡± she said firmly. ¡°If there¡¯s even the smallest chance my husband is alive, I have to go back.¡± Several others nodded, voicing similar sentiments. Torrin didn¡¯t argue further, only stepping aside as they prepared to leave. ¡°Good luck,¡± he said, his tone neutral. A handful of captives chose to stay with us, but as we continued walking, more of them split off, heading toward other settlements where they claimed to have family. Torrin¡¯s expression grew darker with each departure, but he didn¡¯t try to stop them. By the time the rain eased into a light drizzle, only the boy and girl were left walking with us. The girl, who couldn¡¯t have been more than nineteen, carried herself with a protective determination that reminded me of Torrin. Her brother, younger by several years, was quiet but observant, his wide eyes scanning the forest as though cataloging every detail. As we stopped to rest by a fallen log, I knelt beside them. ¡°Do you have anywhere to go?¡± I asked gently. The girl shook her head, her jaw tightening. ¡°Our parents are dead,¡± she said bluntly. ¡°They died in the raid.¡± Her brother didn¡¯t speak, only looking down at his hands. My Sense Magic activated, and I noticed a small ripple pass through the puddle at his feet, as though the rainwater was responding to his emotions. The sight tugged at something deep in my chest. ¡°You could come with us,¡± I offered. ¡°We¡¯re heading to Dawnspire. It¡¯s a big city, and it¡¯s supposed to be safe for magic users.¡± The girl hesitated, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied me. ¡°Why would you want us to come with you?¡± ¡°Because I know what it¡¯s like to feel lost,¡± I said simply. ¡°And because I think we¡¯ll do better if we stick together.¡± She glanced at her brother, who gave her a small, almost imperceptible nod. She let out a breath and nodded back at me. ¡°Alright. We¡¯ll come. I''m Lyra, by the way," she said after a pause. "This is my brother, Evan." ¡°I¡¯m Harriet, but you can call me Hattie if you like.¡± I smiled, ¡°Pleased to meet you.¡± ¡°Alright,¡± Torrin said, rising from where he had been leaning against a tree. ¡°We need to keep moving. The rain¡¯s slowing, but it¡¯ll cover our tracks for a while longer. Let¡¯s not waste it.¡± As we walked, Evan moved closer to me, his footsteps nearly silent. After a moment, he spoke, his voice quiet but clear. ¡°Thank you.¡± I glanced down at him, surprised by the weight in his words. ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me,¡± I said. ¡°We¡¯re in this together now.¡± He nodded and fell silent again, but his presence at my side was a steady anchor in the storm of uncertainty that threatened to overwhelm me. Glowbug hummed softly in my hood, and I reached up to pat the little creature¡¯s side. Torrin gestured for us to keep moving, his eyes scanning the rain-soaked forest ahead. Lyra tightened her grip on her brother¡¯s hand, and we fell into step behind him, the sound of our footsteps muffled by the wet ground.
Name: Harriet Price Age: 24 Type: Human (Level 2) Titles(0/1): None Classes(1/1): Apprentice Professions(0/1): None Talents(10/15): Basic Archery, Basic Cooking, Basic Endurance, Basic Mending, Basic Sneak, Basic Survival Instincts, Intermediate Crafting, Intermediate Housekeeping, Intermediate Identify, Sense Magic Condition: Normal Attributes: Vitality: 65/65 Physical: 16 Mental: 17 Social: 12 Luck: 11 Experience: 15/200 Available Attribute Points: 5
Chapter Twelve The forest had grown wetter as the day went on, the ground transitioning from soft earth to patches of sucking mud. Mist clung to the air, curling around the tree trunks and muffling sound. The only noises were the steady squish of our boots and the occasional croak of frogs echoing from unseen puddles. ¡°Stay close,¡± Torrin said, his voice low but firm. He walked ahead of us, cutting a narrow path through the undergrowth with his sword. Glowbug¡¯s faint light illuminated the immediate area, casting long shadows that danced with each movement. I glanced at Lyra and Evan, both keeping close to me. Lyra¡¯s arm rested protectively on her brother¡¯s shoulder, but her eyes darted nervously through the trees. ¡°How much farther?¡± she asked, her voice tight. ¡°Until we find higher ground,¡± Torrin replied, not breaking his stride. ¡°This place¡­ doesn¡¯t feel right.¡± He wasn¡¯t wrong. The frogs¡¯ croaks grew louder as we moved, almost rhythmic, their sound an ominous backdrop to the sour, earthy scent hanging in the air. I bent down and pulled the dagger from my boot, gripping it tightly as I tried not to let my unease show. The forest felt watchful. ¡°Careful,¡± I warned, motioning to a patch of shimmering mud ahead. Evan nodded, his wide eyes fixed on the ground, while Lyra offered me a brief, tense smile. We rounded a bend, and Glowbug¡¯s light flickered briefly, revealing tangled roots slick with mud. Then it dimmed, the little creature letting out a faint hum that made the hair on my neck stand up. ¡°Glowbug doesn¡¯t like this,¡± I muttered, glancing at Torrin. ¡°I don¡¯t disagree,¡± He raised a hand, signaling us to stop. The croaking had ceased, replaced by an oppressive silence. ¡°Something¡¯s here,¡± he said quietly. The ground erupted with a wet squelch. A massive shape surged from a hidden puddle, spraying mud and water in every direction. The creature landed with a thud, its bloated, warty body gleaming with slime. Its yellow eyes fixed on us, unblinking and hungry. A wide mouth full of needle-like teeth gaped open, and its long, sticky tongue flicked out.
Creature: Swampjaw Danger level: Moderate Recommendation: Fight.
¡°Move!¡± Torrin shouted, but before anyone could react, the creature¡¯s tongue lashed out, wrapping around Evan¡¯s waist. He screamed as it lifted him off the ground, his hands clawing at the slimy appendage. ¡°Evan!¡± Lyra¡¯s voice cracked with panic. I lunged forward, slashing at the tongue with my dagger, the blade glinting as it bit into the slimy appendage but failed to sever it. Torrin was already moving, his sword flashing in the dim light. The blade severed the tongue with a wet snap, and Evan dropped to the ground, scrambling toward Lyra on his hands and knees. The swampjaw let out a deafening croak, its body convulsing as it recoiled. The sound made my head swim, and I stumbled, tightening my grip on the dagger to steady myself. ¡°Harriet, get them to safety!¡± Torrin shouted, positioning himself between us and the creature. But Lyra wasn¡¯t staying out of the fray. She darted to Evan, pulling him behind her before rounding on the swampjaw. Her hands glowed faintly, the light flickering like sparks in the rain. ¡°Leave my brother alone!¡± she yelled, her voice trembling but fierce. Before I could stop her, she had lunged forward and pressed her sparking palm against the creature¡¯s slimy flank. The swampjaw convulsed violently, a harsh croak escaping its mouth as the electricity coursed through its body. Its movements became jerky, its grip on the ground loosening. ¡°Now!¡± Torrin barked. I pulled the bow Torrin had given me off my shoulder, and was fumbling for an arrow as the creature¡¯s gaping mouth opened wide in a final, desperate roar. My heart pounded as I drew back the string and aimed. The arrow flew true, striking deep into the back of its throat. The swampjaw reared in pain, its convulsions shaking the ground. Torrin didn¡¯t waste the moment. He surged forward, his sword glinting as he drove it into the creature¡¯s chest. The swampjaw let out a final, wet croak before collapsing, its massive body sinking into the mud.

Your party has defeated: Swampjaw

You have gained 40 Experience Points. Basic Archery has improved to Intermediate Archery
For a long moment, no one moved. The swampjaw¡¯s yellow eyes dimmed, its glowing trails fading into the darkness. Torrin sank to one knee, his breath ragged. I turned to Lyra, who was standing frozen, her hands still sparking faintly as Evan clung to her side. ¡°Is everyone alright?¡± My voice came out steadier than I felt. ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Torrin said, shaking his head. ¡°But Evan needs attention before we move. That thing threw him around pretty badly.¡± ¡°Alright,¡± My gaze fixed on Evan, who was clutching his side and wincing. ¡°Glowbug can help. It¡¯s healed Torrin before.¡± I reached up to where Glowbug perched safely in my hood. The little creature emerged, its light steady and soothing. It hovered over Evan, its gentle hum filling the air. The bruises on his side faded slightly, and his breathing steadied as Glowbug¡¯s resonance worked. ¡°Thanks,¡± Evan said softly, touching his side with wide eyes. Glowbug chirped in response and returned to my shoulder. I looked at Lyra. ¡°That was brave,¡± I said. ¡°And dangerous.¡±You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. She laughed shakily, wiping her hands on her muddy trousers. ¡°I didn¡¯t think. I just¡­ did it.¡± ¡°You gave us a chance to kill that thing,¡± Torrin said, his tone gruff but sincere. ¡°Good work. But next time, let¡¯s try not to get that close.¡± Evan looked up at her, his face pale but determined. ¡°You were amazing,¡± he said softly. Lyra grinned and ruffled his hair. ¡°We¡¯re all amazing.¡± Torrin wiped his blade clean on the creature¡¯s slimy hide and gestured for us to move. ¡°Stay sharp. If there¡¯s one thing in these woods, there¡¯s likely more.¡± I nodded, helping Evan to his feet while Lyra kept close to his side. The forest¡¯s shadows shifted around us with every step as we pressed on. The rocky terrain was a welcome change after hours of slogging through the muck. The dense trees thinned, giving way to scattered boulders and uneven patches of grass. A cool breeze swept through the open space, carrying with it the faint scent of pine and the promise of a quiet night. ¡°We¡¯ll make camp here,¡± Torrin announced, surveying the area. He pointed to a flat section near a cluster of boulders. ¡°It¡¯s sheltered enough to block some of the wind, and the rocks will help conceal the firelight.¡± I nodded, my legs aching with every step. Lyra and Evan glanced around nervously, but their relief was palpable. The journey had been unrelenting, and the chance to rest was a blessing none of us would take for granted. ¡°I¡¯ll gather firewood,¡± I offered, setting my pack down beside the boulders. Glowbug chirped softly from my shoulder, its light dim in the fading daylight. I gave the little creature a gentle pat before heading toward the nearest copse of trees. The forest¡¯s edge was quiet, save for the rustling of leaves in the breeze. I moved carefully, my Sense Magic on high alert. Despite the rocky ground, there were enough fallen branches to gather a decent supply of firewood. As I worked, my thoughts drifted to the group I had found myself with¡ªto Torrin¡¯s steady reliability, Lyra¡¯s fierce determination, and Evan¡¯s quiet resilience. I wondered if they saw the same strength in me that I admired in them. When I returned to camp with an armful of wood, Lyra was crouched near the fire pit, arranging stones into a circle. Torrin was unpacking a small bundle of food, his sharp eyes scanning the horizon every few seconds. Evan sat cross-legged beside his sister, his head resting against her arm. ¡°Got enough?¡± Torrin asked as I dropped the firewood near the pit. ¡°Should be plenty to get us started,¡± I replied, brushing dirt from my hands. Lyra stepped back as I knelt to arrange the branches. Once the wood was stacked, Lyra extended her hand, small sparks dancing between her fingers. With a quiet hum, the sparks caught, igniting the kindling. The fire crackled to life, casting a warm glow over the camp. ¡°Nice work,¡± I said, smiling at Lyra. ¡°Thanks,¡± she replied, her voice soft. She turned to drape her damp cloak over a low-hanging branch. Evan followed suit, hanging his jacket beside hers. Torrin joined them, creating a makeshift windbreak with his leather coat and my own soggy woollen cloak. The firelight flickered, its glow softened by the fabric barrier. As we settled around the fire, Torrin passed out portions of bread and dried meat. I shared some of my cheese, and Lyra offered the last of a small pouch of dried fruit she¡¯d had in her pocket. The meal was simple, but it eased the tightness in our stomachs and brought a semblance of normalcy to the evening. I chewed my bread slowly, my gaze fixed on the flames. The warmth of the fire seeped into my aching muscles, and for a moment, the worries of the road felt distant. But as the silence stretched, the weight of unspoken thoughts grew heavier. ¡°I used to hate campfires,¡± I said suddenly, breaking the quiet. I didn¡¯t look up, my eyes still on the flames. ¡°They always reminded me of school camping trips. I¡­ wasn¡¯t very good at making friends.¡± Evan tilted his head, his curiosity piqued. ¡°Why not?¡± I hesitated, my fingers tightening around the piece of bread in my hand. ¡°I¡­ didn¡¯t fit in,¡± I admitted. ¡°I was different. And kids don¡¯t always know how to handle different.¡± Lyra frowned, her protective instincts flaring. ¡°They bullied you?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± I said quietly. ¡°Nothing too dramatic. Just¡­ mean comments, pranks, being left out. It added up, though. Made it hard to trust people.¡± The group fell silent, the crackle of the fire filling the space where my words lingered. I risked a glance at Torrin, expecting indifference or discomfort, but his expression was unreadable. His dark eyes flickered with something I couldn¡¯t place. ¡°People can be cruel,¡± Torrin said finally, his voice low. ¡°But they¡¯re not all like that. You¡¯ve found good people now.¡± I nodded, my throat tightening. ¡°I know. It¡¯s just¡­ hard to forget. And sometimes, I feel like¡­¡± I trailed off, unsure how to explain the strangeness of my past without revealing too much. ¡°Like you don¡¯t belong?¡± Torrin guessed. My gaze snapped to his, startled by the accuracy of his words. ¡°Yeah,¡± I whispered. He leaned back, his expression softening. ¡°You¡¯re not alone in that.¡± The fire crackled, sending a spray of embers into the night sky. Lyra reached over to squeeze my hand, her grip firm and reassuring. ¡°You belong here,¡± she said. ¡°With us.¡± Evan nodded, his wide eyes filled with quiet determination. ¡°We¡¯re a team now.¡± I managed a small smile, my chest loosening. ¡°Thanks. That really does mean a lot to me. I¡¯m glad I¡¯m sitting by this campfire, with you all.¡± Torrin didn¡¯t respond, but the faint quirk of his lips spoke volumes. The firelight flickered across their faces as Torrin stood and adjusted the windbreak, ensuring the jackets and cloaks hung securely on the branches. Lyra leaned closer to the flames, tossing another piece of wood onto the fire, while Evan rested his head on her shoulder. Glowbug hummed softly, its light casting a warm glow over us as the dark of twilight deepened. The quiet sounds of the camp blended with the gentle rustle of leaves, and for a while, we simply sat together, letting the fire''s warmth keep the night at bay. The sun had barely risen above the horizon when Torrin stirred us awake. His voice was gruff but laced with a subtle urgency. ¡°Get moving. We¡¯ve got a long way to go, and the terrain¡¯s only going to get worse.¡± I rubbed my neck, wincing as my muscles protested the motion after a restless night on the uneven ground. Evan and Lyra were slower to rise, Evan groaning as he untangled himself from the spare blanket he had been sharing with his sister. Glowbug darted around the camp, its soft hum urging us to get moving. Breakfast was simple: cold bread and water from our dwindling supply. Torrin ate his portion silently, his eyes scanning the rocky trail ahead. I followed his gaze to the jagged peaks in the distance, their snow-capped tips illuminated by the early morning light. A thin wisp of cloud clung to one of the summits, a silent warning of the climb ahead. ¡°We¡¯re heading into the mountains?¡± I asked, breaking the silence. Torrin nodded. ¡°Partway up. There¡¯s a pass we need to cross to reach Dawnspire. Safer than the lowlands, but we¡¯ll need to stop at a settlement along the way. Gear up properly for the cold.¡± Evan looked up at him, pale-faced. ¡°Is it dangerous?¡± ¡°Everywhere¡¯s dangerous,¡± Torrin said bluntly, though his tone softened as he added, ¡°But we¡¯ll manage. The settlement¡¯s not far. We¡¯ll stock up on what we need there.¡± I glanced at Lyra as she wrapped Evan with a worn scarf. Her expression was guarded, but her eyes softened when I handed Evan my spare tunic to layer over his own. His jacket was still a little damp, but he put it on anyway over the borrowed tunic. Lyra refused to borrow anything, instead pulling her cloak tighter around herself. As we set out, the trail grew steadily rockier, the loam of the forest floor giving way to uneven stones and gravel. My boots slipped more than once, and I cursed under my breath as I struggled to keep up with Torrin¡¯s sure-footed pace. The incline was gradual at first, but the air grew thinner, and the landscape loomed more imposing. Jagged cliffs rose on either side, the path narrowing into a precarious strip winding upward.