“Ahhhhhhhh”

I keep yawning. Between training and doing research, I’ve been pulling a lot of all-nighters. My brain is a mess. However, everything is coming together. For starters, my theory that your stats grow if you actually put in work is true. A couple of things happened. First, I got a new skill. Guess what? That’s right. World language. After I spent all those hours learning how to read, write and even talk… Instead of making me happy, it pissed me off. But hey, at least I can travel all around and I’ll understand everything. Second, my stats got a tiny bit of a raise.

Yurem Truesdale

Level: 1

Attack: 3

Magic: 4

Defense: 4

Magic Defense: 2

Movement Speed: 3

Skills:

World Language

Yeah, I’m still the weakest but the fact is that only by doing general workout they rose. I’m quite happy. So as long as I put in work, I can improve myself. This is exciting. I’m going to keep this information to myself. Because from what I learned from all the books and research that I did, it’s probably for the best to have some secrets. I had another hearing with the King to announce that I learned the ‘World Language’ skill. He still looked at me with disgust so I made sure to annoy him even more by puffing out my chest and making a cheeky smile. A fake but still, a smile.

I made a lot of progress in all the research that I’ve made so I’m just waiting for Ciara and Jasmin to come back from the wild area. Yeah, they already are venturing outside the city. Places outside of cities are called the wild area and they have been training in a place called ‘the Misty Pits’ for the last 3 days. They went on some sort of expedition. The Misty Pits is a mini-dungeon outside of the city that is excellent for newbie adventurers to grind levels and loot.

Meanwhile, we got titles. We are to be known officially as ‘heroes’. So, yeah. That’s that. With the mix of the last couple of days of not knowing what to call us, Ciara had a quick chat with the princess, Lady Catherine, and she declared us ‘heroes’. 17 and with an official title. I’m living the dream. Not.

Anyway, since I’m forbidden to go with them outside of the city, they made 3 parties. Each party has 6 people in. 2 of those parties have 1 newbie soldier each, so it’s a win-win for the empire and us since we can cover more ground and start making a profit. Ciara, Jasmin, and Logan were chosen to be Party Leaders. Ciara and Jasmin were kinda upset since they got along pretty well and wanted to team-up but Captain Bernard asked them to split and choose between themselves just so they can have a more fair party.

The parties are temporary anyway. They will only last until people start reaching level 20, where they will travel all around the continent of Oworis. They can party between themselves but that’s for them to decide. From what Ciara told me, Jasmin wants to travel with the 2 of us and I have no qualms with that. Ciara is getting more efficient as an assassin type of adventurer. She can finish monsters off with few hits and her knife skills are actually impressive. Jasmin on the other hand is more of a Saboteur. She applies debuffs and status effects on monsters. From what I could tell she has quite the talent for using mana. Ciara is level 18 and Jasmin 15. I don’t even wanna know their stats. I don’t really care about the others so I never pried or tried to know. I’m already devising ways for our 3 party members to act and move so, I couldn’t care less about others.

“Yu, I’m back” Bursting the door open, Ciara quickly jump into my bed. “I’m so so so so tired, give me a back massage. Pwetty pwease”. Making puppy eyes isn’t gonna do anything.

“Ciara, I’ve been up for 3 days straight, cut me some slack. I could be sleeping but I was told that you were coming back today so I waited for you.”

“Are you an idiot, by any chance? You know that you can report your findings tomorrow, right?”

“Yeah, I know but the soon I do that, the better. Do you wanna wait for Jasmin or?

“I’m here!” As soon as her name was dropped, she also burst into the room. I’m starting to think that these 2 are getting way too close and they are picking up each other’s bad habits. This is still my room, you know? You can knock.

“Welcome back. Now, for starters. Get. Out. Of. My. Bed. You 2 are all sweaty and stinky are you are making a mess out of the sheets. I sleep there, you know?”

“Aff, fine. Give me a piggy ride to my bed then.”

“Ciara, I swear I’ll practice acupuncture while you are sleeping.”

“Fine. Fine. I’m up.”

I’m feeling a headache approaching at a high velocity. I sure hate myself.

“Okay, are you 2 ready?”

““Yes!””

“You 2 are getting way too close. Anyway. Let’s start. What do you guys wanna know first?”

“Hm, think it would be better to start with the King, Queen, go with the countries alliances and we can go from there. Jasmin?”

“I’m fine with that!”

“Okay then.” I clean my throat, making myself comfortable in my chair, fill my cup with water, and let the ball rolling.

King Elis the Invincible, in his 50s. Had a quite nice upbringing. Was considered a genius swordsman. His current level is being kept a secret. But it is safe to assume that he is strong. Too strong. His father, Asher the Lion died due to a heart condition originated from a curse when he was 30 years old. The records show that he was the true definition of a King. He was kind, intelligent, a strong magic swordsman, brave, and overall an amazing person. He also vouched for equality making sure that slavery was non-existent in his kingdom. However, a fox-person was accused of being the one who cursed Asher and that was the trigger point to making Astax a country that vouches for human supremacy. King Elis never accepted the fact that his father, the kindest of them all was killed by races that he made sure to protect.

Queen Mia. Queen of Astax. Married into the family, originated from a country that no longer exists since Astax absorbed the country in its entirety. It was one of the big reasons why the Kingdom kept growing. There’s not much to learn about her. From what I could gather she isn’t particularly talented at anything and she isn’t that good of a person. The castle apparently has demi-human slaves who act as maids. I only saw them briefly but they were ordered to not interact with us by any means. Direct orders from her. I can’t tell much about her.

Meanwhile, Queen Mia has a sister. That happens to be the opposite of her in every way. She is kind, gracious, beautiful, intelligent and she is the sole ruler of Asparia. Her name is Luna Montathier and she is the younger of the 2. Asparia is a matrimonial kingdom, meaning that she has the highest power in that country. She is also a diplomatic genius since while Astax rules with others by fear, Asparia rules with kindness and accords. So if one enters into war against Astaria, a whole lot of people would get involved. But since they are a loved country, there’s no way it’s going to happen.

Lady Catherine is just a kid, really. Has a high affinity with mana but other than that, everyone seems to care and like her.

Onto the stats screen. The symbols that Ciara saw are indeed resistances that can be unlocked. Either by accessories or by leveling up. There’s no certain method to get them for sure, so it’s a matter of time until we see how those are developed.

The soldiers looked clean. Haven’t seen anything worth mentioning besides a couple who have drinking problems and are blatant racists. But other than that, there’s nothing for us to worry about. Not that I like the fact that I have those types of people within the same roof as me but it’s not like I’m staying here much longer.

Jasmin wanted to know easier ways to manipulate mana so I also looked into that. There are types of training that one can do however no one in the vicinities do them. The methods are undisclosed. So we are going to have to pull the adventurer card and really look for ourselves.

I also figured out that there’s a guild. One has to register in order to participate in quests and receive a rank. The higher the rank, the higher quests you are allowed to do. There are 7 ranks. Iron, Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Orichalcum. There are few people above the Platinum mark and not many try to achieve much more since it’s not really worth the bother. As soon as we leave I want to register us there since we are going to be in need of income.

On another note, religion-wise, Astax worships Zosagi, the God of Hope. Also, the God that, according to some documents, acknowledge humans as the superior race. Fitting, I guess. Astaria worships Zuheia, the Goddess of Souls. Her ideology is that every living person deserves to live on his own terms. Fitting of an equality kingdom.

“…and that’s everything I found so far.”

Ciara and Jasmin are looking at me dumbfounded. I tilt my head in confusion because I really don’t understand what’s wrong.

“How many hours did you sleep the last that you did so?”

“Aw, my big sister is worried about me. I don’t know, 4,5? Not really counting.”

“And you’ve been doing research and training… and you haven’t slept for 3 days. Are you out of your goddamn mind? Go to bed, immediately or I’ll smack you.”

“She’s got a point, Yurem.”

“Can we talk about the fact of the stuff I found or…? I think that you 2 have your priorities a bit messed up.”

“We can talk tomorrow. Yu, bed. Now.”

There’s no point in arguing when she acts like a mama bear.

“You thought about something about me acting like a mom, didn’t you?”

She’s is getting good at reading my mind, damn.

“Go have dinner and let me sleep. I have a morning practice to attend.”

“Yeah, change the subject. Idiot. I’m going to take a bath. Jasmin, are you coming?”

“Yes, I’ll join you. Yurem, have a good night.”

“See you in a bit, Yu.”

“Cheers.”

As soon as they closed the doors, I decided to get into my bed. Since Ciara acted like a kid, it’s all completely messed up but I’m too tired to even bother to tidy her up. It’s a bit cold. I need to get some rest. I need to train, I need to know when the Spawn is coming. There is so much stuff to do. Eventually, my eyes get heavy, my breathing gets stable and my consciousness fades.

Creek

Creek

Thud

I’m hearing something behind me. Probably just Ciara but there’s no need to make so much noise. For someone who threatened me, she sure as hell is not making my life easier. Bah, I’m way too tired to complain or to even turn around. I get into a more comfortable position in bed and once again, my consciousness fades.

“Yu… Yu…Yuuuuuuuuu. Wake up.”

“Ngmm… 5 more minutes.”

“Yu, lunch is being served.”

Huh? Lunch? What are you on about? There’s no way I slept for that long. I jump out of the bed and look into the sun. Fuck. I overslept.

“For fuck sake.”

“I know you are upset but it’s completely normal. Your body needed to rest. Not even us went training today. We are taking a break and tomorrow we are back on griding.”

“I’m already behind everyone, I can’t allow myself to catch a break.”

“Yeah, keep thinking like that. Then you go face off against a monster that you can win but you lose because your sleep deprivation makes you unable to focus and the next thing you notice is your head chopped off. When did I become the person that actually wins arguments against you so easily?”

“…” Not going to argue. She is right. But still. Ah, whatever. I’ll just make sure I’ll do more sets in the afternoon. “Oh, question. What did you drop last night?”

“Pardon?”

"Yeah. I don’t know when but I woke up with you dropping something but I couldn’t bother to turn around and check if you needed help. Sorry.”

“Uh… Yu, I think you’re tripping.”

“What are you on about?”

“I didn’t drop anything, sweetie. I took a bath, grab some supper, and fell asleep in Jasmins room. I only made it here in the morning. Obviously, I took another nap but don’t tell her.”

“What the… ah, whatever. Let’s eat, I’m starving.” Was I really all that tired that I even heard stuff? Wait, did I actually woke up, or was that just a dream? Doesn’t matter anyway. I need food. Haven’t eaten anything in over 24 hours, I reckon. Still, I gotta stick to the diet that I discussed with the chef. He wasn’t too pleased with it but Ciara charmed her way out and he happily obliged. Yes, trick number 32, using the beauty of my sister to my own advantage. Behold, my greatest power.

Today’s menu for me. Stripes of roasted Clawk with vegetables. Clawk is a variation of a Cockatrice that hangs around the wild area so it’s one of the most common dishes around. It’s quite tasty and healthy so I don’t feel guilty over the fact that I’m eating it. I manage to finish and quickly retrieve the wooden plate with the wooden cutlery, give a nod to Ciara so she knows that I’m going out and I run directly to the training grounds.

I want to take advantage of the fact that today I’m training alone. I read about a way to ready your body for the use of mana and how does it feel and work so I want to start as soon as I can. It’s a simple method that you can use on a daily life basis. All you need to do is stand still and feel the cold sensation of the mana flow within you like a river. I was doing this while I was in the library so I’m quite happy with how I managed to grasp the feeling so quickly. What I want to do now is replicate the feeling while moving around. Why? So that my mana capability raises. Mana reservoirs are, according to what I read, like muscles. So if you work with them, they eventually break and expand. However, it’s dangerous to run out of mana. If you run out too quickly and several times in a row you may pass out or even get into a comatose state until someone gives a share of mana or your body recovers completely.

I find it amusing the way I can picture stuff where I can eventually use mana on. I have a slight idea of something that I want to do but, once again, I need to do some research in order to see if it’s even possible.

Pant. Pant. Pant.

I’m. Exhausted. It’s only been 2 hours and I already ran out of mana. Ciara told me that there’s an option to toggle on or off if you want to see your mana bar. I have 35 mana. The only reason I managed to hold for 2 hours is that I had a lot of mana potions that I’ve been drinking non-stop but the maximum capacity still didn’t raise. I need to figure it out. The person who has the least amount of mana besides me between the ‘heroes’ is Ben. And he has more than 200. I don’t like to admit it but I’m getting frustrated.

Gulp. Gulp. Gulp.

One potion left. Tomorrow I’m going to take the day off from training. Going to see if Ciara wants to go into the city. All this time here and I never left the castle. I kind of want to see how the world really is. And also I want to do some research. I want to be able to make potions to save money. It would be wise for me to do so since I can’t count on that airhead to do and think about this stuff. Even while we were at home, I was the one taking care of our finances so we wouldn’t go broke.

Okay. Focus. Keep running. Faster. Control your breathing. Let the mana flow. If the flow stops, you’re doomed. That’s it. Like a river. Like your blood flow. There we go. Focus all your mana on your legs now. Steady, steady, steady…

I’m done. Enough for today.

My body is aching. Can’t take it anymore. I’m going to be so sore tomorrow. Bah. Whatever. Deal with it. Still gotta go to the city. I need a change of scenery. Getting frustrated isn’t going to take me anywhere. Oh. Jasmin told me that if you go to the church, you can allow the countdown for the Spawn to show in your Stats. I also gotta do that. But first… Yeah. Can’t really get up, can I?

“Need any help?”

Look who it is. My new self-proclaimed friend who sometimes helps me train, Ben. Yes, the former bully. Right in front of me. Giving me his hand. My hero. Take me home.

“If you don’t mind.”

“There we go, bud.”

Yeah, I can tell that he has strength close to Ciara. With his help, I manage to get back into the castle. I decide to take a bit of a break. Since I still want to take a bath, I’ll keep reading the guild blacklist I got from the library. While I was reading I came across a case that piqued my interest. 2 years ago, an elf killed several slave owners and carriers without a reason. Supposedly she was caught but no one turned her up to the girl or the authorities and she has been missing ever since. People suspect she is dead.

I highly doubt that. For someone to go on a rampage to kill slave owners and their carriers, it has to have a clear reason. And I don’t think that the elf would kill herself after killing a few lowly slave owners. Makes no sense. So she was probably looking for something and got caught. But where the hell is she? She was young as well. 19. Well, 21 now. What was the reason? I wanted to research this but I don’t have anything at all. No nome. And only an alias. Darkstorm. They have given her this name due to the bodies being completely ravished. Kind of gruesome but can’t really say that I feel sorry for them.

I’m tired. Time get up. Take a bath and go to sleep. Not even feeling hungry. Just got to ask Ciara if she wants to go to the city with me tomorrow since they said they were taking the day off. Hm. Probably still with Jasmin. Maybe her room? While I was looking for Ciara, I forgot to lock the door. Damn. Ah, whatever. I’ll be back in no time anyway.

Walking down these halls gives me chills. The amount of paintings is surreal. The art itself isn’t that great but the face of the former royals is a bit creepy. If this was back in our world, I would feel like it belonged in a horror movie where the eyes would suddenly move as soon as I pass through. Okay, I turned around but not because I was afraid. Not at all. Just felt a draft. Yeah. That’s it. A draft. Ah, I’m hearing those 2 laughing without a care in the world. Lucky.

Knock. Knock.

“Who is it?” This isn’t even your room, why are you asking?

“Your accountant.”

“I’m too broke to have one, you got the wrong room.”

“Maybe I’ll sell those silver needles then. Might fetch a good deal on a pawn shop.”

I hear someone running towards the door. “NOOOOOOOOOO.” Yeah, there she goes. “Don’t you dare touch my needles! I’ll kick you!”

“Again with the empty threats. Anyway, can we talk?”

“Sure, come in.”

“This isn’t even your rooo…” I got dragged inside. I don’t feel comfortable at all.

“Who was… AHHHHHHHHHHH” Clank. The door connecting to the bathroom closes. Yeah. Jasmin has a private bathroom. This is what we peasants would consider a suit. It was supposed to be Ciara’s room but she refused since she wanted to stay in our little 2 beds room. “CIARA, WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT? I ONLY HAD A TOWER AROUND ME.”

“I forgot, sorry little Jasmin.”

“You 2 are starting to rub more on each other than you were supposed to. Good grief.”

“Ah, it’s a good thing. So, what’s up? What brings you to our little HQ?”

“HQ… really? Aff. Anyway, do you, perhaps, maybe, possibly, perchance, by any chance…”

“Spit it out.” Uh, someone got cranky all of a sudden. “What are you going to ask me?”

“Fine… Come with me to the city tomorrow. There is some stuff I want to check and I think it’s only fair that you, the one who overworked me, be the person to do so since you’re taking the day off anyway.”

“Hmm? You, taking interest in going somewhere? Are you sick? Do you have a fever?” Yes. I get it. I’m a shut-in. I stay inside most of the time. Let it go. “Who are you? Where is my baby brother?”

“…” My face remains expressionless but she can tell that I’m not finding that amusing. However, I’m going to take the bait. Time to poke the mama bear. “Oh, you know. Since I don’t have to act like a housewife anymore, it would be a good idea to go for a change of pace. Since I don’t have to cook, do the laundry, clean, take the garbage out, make lunch for you when I wake up before going to school, leave you notes around the house so you don’t forget anything… let me see, what else…”

“Fine, fine, fine, stop. You won. Jeez, that was mean.” The door behind her opened and Jasmin, apparently more presentable, decided to show up.

“Did you really did all those things? No wonder her bag was a mess. Potions, clothing was completely mixed with rations. I spent so much time fixing that for her.”

“Ah, so you too know the pain of having an airhead companion.”

“Can you 2 stop talking like I’m not here? Thanks.” Aw, Ciara is pouting. How adorable. Next time don’t mock me. Behold, technique number 4, the housewife powerplay. Dirty laundry. Literally.

“Ah, just let’s go to the city. I’ll buy you street food. Just like when we go out back home.”

“First you spill my secret of turning you into the perfect house husband and now you bribe me with food? Oh, I don’t thin…” Growl. Yeap, I know your stomach better than you think. When you picture food you get hungry quite instantly. It’s quite weird. “Fine, we leave first thing in the morning.” Oy, are you blushing? Dammit, you are cute. You don’t have any business being that cute. Stop making me feel guilty for bribing you for my personal gain.

“Can I…” Jasmin interrupted our little reunion with a remark of her own but she quickly held her tongue. “… nevermind.” Huh? What’s that about? Oh, don’t tell me you wanted to come along. Read the room a bit, will you? It’s family time. No, Ciara, don’t look at me like… ahhhhhhhh, fine.

“You are free to come, Jasmin. Only if you have time, of course. And if you want, obviously.”

“Are you sure? I don’t..”

“Stop right there. You’re not going to interrupt anything.” If this keeps up people might start thinking I have a sister complex and that’s a no-go. “I simply assumed you had no interest in coming along, that’s all. We’ll be happy if you’d join us.”

She is smiling. Okay, she is smiling way too much. Control yourself, woman. Oy, oy, oy, why are you acting like a kid who got a new console on Christmas. “THANK YOU FOR INVITING ME.” Okay, but yelling and then running to your own personal bathroom doesn’t sound like you truly are grateful. What did I get myself into?

“Okay, it’s settled. Anyway. Ciara, I’m counting on you to wake me up. I’m going to take a bath and get some sleep.”

“Are you not going to have dinner with us?”

“Not feeling hungry. Rather sleep, to be honest.” I left the room and went ahead to the baths. The bath they have here is quite amazing. They have your typical showers but I don’t know how they did it but they have some sort of heated pool that’s amazing to just stay and have a soak. They also have a variation of a jacuzzi. The only downside is the fact that it’s always steaming so one can not be there for a lot of time. But it sure as hell helps on the muscles. Even my lungs feel refreshed after leaving.

Growl

Now you decide to speak up? No, my friend. We are going to bed. I am way too tired to even move my limp legs to the dining hall. Ciara didn’t come here after all. The door is still unlocked. Ah, whatever. Ahhhhh, I don’t know who decided to change the sheets but boy oh boy, I love you, whoever did this. So smooth, so warm, I can already feel my eyes closing. I’m excited for tomorrow but I just want to reset my body. Ah, I feel myself going numb.

I feel something tickling my face. Stop. I hate that. Why is there a cold breeze on my face?

Slap

“WHAT THE FUCK???” I jump when the hand of someone reaches my face. It was a full-on slap. My cheek is burning. You could fry an egg here.

“I tried to be nice and all cute but you didn’t wake up. Had to take some drastic measures.”

“CIARA, THAT HURT!”

“You reap what you sow. Now get up, dress up, and let’s have breakfast. It’s field trip day!” You slapped me, you uncovered me without warning making my body freeze and you still have the audacity to give me a smile so wide that it can barely fit your face? Oh, beware, technique number 7, public embarrassment. You shall regret this.

I get up and put on the clothes that Ciara got me. She actually bought me clothes that I like. A black shirt, black cargo pants that go so well with the techwear boots that she gifted me when I woke up, and a grey overcoat to top it off. I never felt so well dressed in my entire life.

I quickly go to the dining hall where breakfast is already being served. I greet everyone as usual. Ever since we came here every one is treating me nicely. Already got used to it but still, I don’t know how shall I feel about this. My mana training already bore fruits. I just noticed but I have 37 mana now. Yes. Progress.

Yurem Truesdale

Level: 1

Attack: 5

Magic: 4

Defense: 4

Magic Defense: 2

Movement Speed: 6

Skills:

World Language

Wow. I’m actually gaining stats. The last couple of days I’ve been drinking nothing else besides mana potions and water so I’m keeping some form of a mana glove. It’s a thin layer where it keeps draining mana from me and I manage to keep the flow going. Ah. I never knew this could be so much fun. I quickly drink my blueberry tea and eat the omelet the chefs made and went to meet Ciara and Jasmin who were waiting for me at the front gate.

“Damn, look at you. I should go to a fashion college when we get back, you look amazing.” She’s going to ask for food.

“You actually do!” She’s going to beg us to go somewhere completely random.

“Thanks. I’m actually surprised they are comfortable and easy to move to be honest. But I’m happy with them.”

“Good. Now treat me some street food.” Told you. She has a stomach for a brain. I honestly don’t get it. She always ate double the amount I did back home. However, I always put on weight. I walked to school. I did all the house tasks. And I still gained more and more. She ate a lot, especially junk food, she spent more time sitting down than standing up and she is slim as hell. Are my genetics broken? Was I in fact adopted? Unfair, I tell you. Unfair.

“So predictable. And you, what do you want? Also for me to treat you some food?”

“I mean, I’m not going to refuse, eheh.”

“You see, it’s funny because Ciara actually forgets that ever since I came here, the King not once gave me a penny. So all the money I have is money that Ciara gave me to keep since I’m her personal bank. So technically, Ciara is buying. So. Let’s. Spend. Money.” That’s what you get for slapping me. But this is just the beginning. I grin at her and take the lead.

“Hey, hey, hey, come on now, that’s not FAIR.” No point in crying now. You reap what you sow. Right? Ah. I love this.

“Yay, Captain Ciara is so reliable.”

“Not you too, Jasmin!”

We took our time reaching the city itself. Even though the castle is in the center of Astax, it was made sure to not too close to the public. The reason? The royal family wants to make sure that the rest of the country realizes that they are above them. Meaning that unless they are worthy of being inside the castle, there is no need for them to make the trip there. It’s an awful way of thinking especially when it comes to your own people but I already lost all hope in this royal family anyway.

We finally arrived. And it’s… disappointing really. The city itself lacks the animation that I was expecting. People walk around like they are miserable. They don’t look at each other, don’t pay attention to their surroundings. Looks like they are walking on autopilot. I understand that this isn’t my world. And I know this isn’t some sort of RPG where the countries and cities should be full of festivities and stuff happening but this is… sad. There are no kids playing around, there’s no one selling random stuff in order to fool tourists. It lacks personality if anything.

“So, what do you think?” Ciara looks at me expectantly. I think she knows what I’m thinking but she wants to hear it.

“It’s bland.”

“Yeah, I said the same thing. I spoke with a few locals. Everyone is on edge because of the Spawn. Since we are the new heroes, the people don’t really know our worth so they are a bit skeptical about us. It’s only normal. After the first one, I can only hope we manage to put their minds at ease.”

“Hope so. Because they look… miserable, at best.”

“We just have to give our max.” Eh, someone is confident. Who are you? Where’s Jasmin who keeps asking Ciara for advice on how to be a leader? On how to be a strong independent woman?

“Don’t count on me. I’m weak. Work for me, you 2.” I’m quick on the jokes but we gotta ease the tension that is building up. We came here to have a decent time after all. I mean, I came here to gather intel for us. I just dragged them along.

“So, Yu. Order of business?”

“Well, I have quite a few places that I want to go to.”

“You name it, we’ll take you. Every pit stop equals foods, just so you know.”

“We just got here. Are you 2 already hungry?”

“Not really.”

“Can you teach Ciara how to be more like you?”

“Hey. Don’t treat me like a glutton.”

“Ciara, he has a point.”

“Feeeeeh, you 2 are railing against me. Not fair.” I don’t really care if you pout. Not gonna give you extra food just because. But she is going to be a pain to deal with if I don’t feed her.

“Aff. You’re a pain. Let’s make a deal. Instead of street food, let’s go to a weapon shop, to the church so I can get the countdown on my HUD and the last place I want is somewhere where potions and medicine are made. After that, I’ll buy you lunch at a place of your choosing. Deal?”

“No matter the price?”

“Argh…” Sigh, I’ve been had. “Fine, be it. It’s your money anyway. But I’m taking stuff that I need with your money.”

“Issa deal.” Now you grin like a little kid. I swear you’re going to be the death of me one of these days.

We look around for a bit before we find the so-called best weapon shop in Astax. I don’t know who gave the title but from what I can see, the competition must be lacking. The store is a mess. Unorganized, dirty, shields and shortswords all over the floor, knives mixed with spears and war hammers. But this will do.

The shopkeeper as soon as he saw Ciara got instantly happy.

“Oy, if it isn’t the lass that is going to keep us from further harm. What brings you here?”

“Hi there. I’m just here accompanying him. He has some business to discuss with you.” Pointing to me. Oh, you think you are passing this to me? I’ll gladly take this chance. Remember the slap? Technique number 11, your business is now mine.

“Is that lad the dud?”

“Dud?”

“Yeah. We have been hearing some whispers about one of the heroes being stuck in a castle because he is a dud of a hero. Call it a weakling. Eheh.”

“…” That hurt. Not gonna lie. I was scared that I was going to regret doing this but not? Oh, dear shopkeeper, I won’t hold back. “It is correct. I am the dud of the heroes. Also known as the younger brother of the chosen one.”

“Sorry, lad. But being the younger brother of the chosen one isn’t going to get you some discounts of my mighty fine weapons.”

“Oh, I’m not looking for discounts at all. I am here on the behalf of the Chosen One, you see? She plans to allow a weakling like me to follow her. Yes, we may have a family bond but that doesn’t mean she would need to do that. Well, in exchange, I am responsible for making sure that she stays in tip-top shape and has the best of the best available for her. And allow me to tell you, my bright older sister is quite fond of your shop, you see? I did hear her speak a lot about this one but she never had the courage to come here.”

“Lass, is this true?” The shopkeeper had a grin and a puffed chest that could burst if I used one of Ciara’s needles on him. The bait was cast. Time to reel in. She looks at me and the look in her ways simply begs the question ‘What are you doing?’. What am I doing? Taking advantage of a poor guy who called me a dud and getting payback from the way you woke me up, that’s what I’m doing. I don’t really know how to signal this with my dead eyes, so she simply glares at me. I extend my right arm, forcing her to answer the question.

“It is correct. Never had the courage to step inside but he insisted. But if by any chance we are disturbing you, please, allow us to come back at a later time.”

Pssht, amateur. You actually think playing the 'I’m a nice girl, I can come back later' act is going to work? Amateur, amateur I tell you.

"Lass, I am honored that the chosen one is actually interested in my store. Stay as long as you require. Now, lad. Proceed.”

“As I was saying, the Chosen One pretends to use your services in acquiring weapons for her and her party. We will be leaving in a couple of weeks so you, being a smart businessman can understand where I am going with this.”

“I do understand, lad. I do. But I would like you to say it out loud. Let me raise my ego a bit, eheheh.” Okay, it’s obvious that you have no idea what I’m going to ask.

“I plan to make your shop, the shop where the Chosen One and her party uses for the finest weaponry and where she can make sure she has quality items available for her. And me, being part of her party, I would like to assist you in that endeavor. If you could, perhaps, teach me the ways of sharpening blades, it would facilitate this relationship we are building.”

“And how is teaching a dud like you how to sharpen a blade going to help me, eh? If you learn, you’ll be taking money out of my pockets.”

“Oh, no, no. Quite the opposite. From the intel I’ve gathered, you have a dedicated smith. You buy the weapons directly from him and he takes care of the sharpening as well, even though you are quite capable of doing the same. However, I do bet that the more damage a weapon has, the more you have to pay for the service, correct?”

“Aye, you are indeed right. And your point?”

“If during our travels, I manage to ease the burden of your smith, you won’t have to pay a big amount for the services that you are going to require and as such, the Chosen One can stay alive because she has a sharp blade. And after all, if it comes public that the weapons she uses come from here, your business is only going to get bigger.” I fiddle with the money I have in the bag and if this was a cartoon you would see the money sign on his eyes. He was rubbing his hands like a madman. Bait, reel, and score.

“Aye, lad. Come with me for 5 minutes. I’m going to teach you the basics. Hell, I will even throw a discount on a grinding stone for yer, how does that sound?”

“Well, sir. Then allow me to shake your hand because our business is done.”

Shaking his hand, taught me the basics I needed to know and pretty much told me that in the end comes down to practice. If you manage to cut a piece of paper without forcing the blade too much, then the blade is good to decapitate monsters. Also gave me a knife imbued with magic that was developed for trainees. After a while, it goes back to being dull so it’s perfect to practice.

We leave the store and as soon as we step out… If looks could kill, I was a deadman at that moment.

SLAP

In milliseconds I was facing the ground. Ciara slapped me so hard that I didn’t even felt the hand coming to the back of my head.

“Hey. Yuuuuuu. Do you care to explain what did you just do?”

“Autch.” I was rubbing my head. The impact only started to feel when I stood up. Jasmin stood quiet ever since we got in and out of the shop. And after the slap was simply covering her mouth with both hands. “For starters, there was no need to resort to violence. Second, I just made you a favor, don’t buy weapons from that guy. Third, I came here to do business, not just stroll around.”

“Oh yeah? And what deal did you make? Putting me on the spot? Calling me Chosen One when you know it pisses me off? HUH?” It may sound like she was going to kill me but it’s more like she is pissed because she doesn’t get it.

“You dummy. If I learn how to sharpen the blades you use for you, you can grind more levels and you can stay alive the longest, and also save you money in the long run. You never cared about money because I was the one dealing with it back home and I have to do the same here. Think about it. Do you think you’re going to have time to act carefree when it comes to these things? Do you think we are going to be near cities constantly? No. And if we can have another source of income besides what the King gives you, the better for us.”

Sniff…Sob…Ugh…

Great… Just great.

”Listen… I didn’t mean be to so aggressive. I’m sorry. But you heard what he called me right? I’m the failure. And you are very keen on taking the failure of your brother with you. You are the sun. I am the moon. I’ll support you from the shadows as I did back home. I’m sorry, okay? Come here.”

I don’t like to raise my voice but more than that, I don’t like to make her cry. It hurts. But she knows I’m right. Time to bribe her stomach into forgiveness. I signal Jasmin to look out for her for a bit. I come back with a couple of meat pastries for both of them. “Here.” She raises her head and quickly grabs the bag from my hands and starts eating like a little mouse. Scrunching little bites while making several noises. So adorable. Jasmin smiles while rubbing Ciara’s hair.

“Where do you want to go now, Yurem?”

“Do you know any herbal or a shop that is medicine based?”

“Yeah, the one I go to it right over there actually.”

“Lead the way, if you don’t mind.”

SNAP. SNAP. SNAP. SNAP.

“MOVE, YOU USELESS BASTARD.”

SNAP. SNAP.

“I’m… sor…I’m so.. sorry. Pl..please…. s….s…stop.”

I turn around only to see a dog-person being whipped with so much strength that the skin on the back was completely shredded.

“STOP? OH, I’LL STOP ALRIGHT. WHEN YOU STAY PUT LIKE THE DOG YOU ARE, I’LL STOP.”

From the clothes he was wearing, he was noble. Fancy clothes, big demeanor, looking down on others. But the eyes he had were the same ones that I used to receive back in our world. No. Even worse. Those eyes were the same as my father’s when he looked at me. They were filled with hate, disgust, rage. I was in the same place as that dog-person. But instead of a whip, it was a belt.

I feel my chin wet. My hands are also sticky. And I guess I’m shaking because Ciara is grabbing me. Ah. I was biting my lips so hard I drew blood. My hands? I clenched them so hard that my palms burst open.

“We can’t.”

As I hear those words, my eyes open wide. What do you mean, we can’t? We can’t what? We can’t stop? Just watch. Is this a joke?

"Why not? Are we sup…”

“Stop. I know how you feel, okay Yu? But if you do something now, you’re going to face charges. What that man is doing is within the laws of the country. He is not in the wrong.”

Ah. So even when I’m in another world, I’m still useless when I see people that are going through the same as I did. I can’t help anyone. I really am useless. So useless that it makes me wanna laugh.

“Come here.” No. Don’t hug me. Stop. Let me go. That’s what I want to say. But the words won’t come out. Why is my face wet? Ah. I’m crying. I see. “Jasmin, take the handkerchief I have on my bag and clean his hands. I have 2 bandages as well.”

I don’t know how long I was there in Ciara’s arms. But it was enough for people to stare at us. I wipe my face and turning to Jasmin, I nod. She starts leading the way once again. We arrived at a small shop. I went there with both of them. I wasn’t in the mood to and get a deal. I simply asked for a basic potion kit and a couple of handbooks for beginners in how to make them. Also bought one herbalism book and a mortar and pestle. I gave the money bag I brought with me to Ciara. After leaving the shop I simply apologized, gave a quick bow, and went back to the castle.

I wasn’t in any mood to be around people. I had a lot in my head. I needed to be alone. And lately, I found out the best way to take my frustration. Pain. Take it out on my body. Push it to his limit. Breaking muscle fibers little by little. Let the pain sink. Push more mana onto my body. Raise it. More. More. More pain. Ran out of mana. Drink another potion. Drink more and more. Don’t stop pushing your limits. Break them. Rip them. Break yourself and pick yourself back up. When I came back to my senses it was already night. I had no more mana potions. And the number of vials scattered all around me amounted to 17. I spent every single one of the potions I’ve been saving. The hell with it. I’ll engrave into my head how to make them.

“Yu. Let’s go back. It’s enough.”

Huh? Oh. It’s you. It’s always you. You are the one who’s always there. Picking the pieces up for me. And making me whole again. It’s always you. So I wonder. Will you always be there for me?

“How long have you been there?” That’s all I could whisper. My throat was burning from my deep breaths. I was surprised that I could even speak.

“5 hours now. Almost 6.”

My eyes probably look deader than usual. I stare at her then quickly avert my gaze. I can’t move my legs anymore. With a quick jump and a spin, she lands right next to me, raising my shoulder above hers.

“Let’s go home.” That was what she had to say. Saying that with that beautiful smile, that smile that even in my darkest days would always feel like sunshine. And home, we went.