Finding Korroms farm in the pitch black is difficult. Torg stays behind in the camp to help clean up the mess, so I’m all alone. Above me, the great red moon Paraton is glowing ominously, with blue Mian Shi behind, ever growing. The light that reaches the world is as pale as that from our own Luna, allowing me to keep to the road. Soon enough I see the lantern he’s set out for me to follow.

“You’re back.”

I remove my shoes as I try to think of an appropriate response.

“Your mastery of stating the obvious never ceases to amaze me.”

Nailed it.

He grunts in response, pointing at an empty chair next to him, in front of the fire. There’s a plate of food ready. Bread, cheese and a soup with the sharp aroma of garlic. Grabbing the bowl, I flinch when I realise how hot it is. I look at him sideways as he chuckles at my discomfort.

After dinner he treats me to some moonshine he’s brewed on fairysugar.

The same ingredient he warned Fred about before. The liquid glows softly red as he fills a shotglass for each of us, and we down it together. A burning sensation starts spreading through my body, starting in my mouth, following the path of the spirit through my body. When the heat reaches my extremities, I realise with a start that I can sense everything around me, from the light falling through a window to the spiders crawling in their webs around the grubby cellar.

You have gained a buff: Perfect Sense (Physical) - Duration: 10 seconds.

I revel in the experience until the buff wears off, leaving me cold and empty inside.

“What the hell dude. Why aren’t you mainlining this stuff?”

He smiles sadly.

“It’s dangerous and expensive. The process takes some time, but the tricky part is exposing the product to the moons during a full moon surge. This bottle is all I could make during the last one. Besides, the addiction is a real problem. If I could solve the issues, I’d be set for life.”

You have discovered a quest: Moonshine. - Korrom has told you about the process of creating the epic spirit Moonshine. Help him solve the issues around producing the heady liquor. - Known issues: - Timing - Moonshine must be infused by the light of a surging moon, the type of moonshine being determined by which moon is surging. - Resources - Moonshine is created from Fairyhome products. A tricky crop to grow as there is never enough. - Addiction - Moonshine is addictive. This is good for repeat custom, but it draws attention from law enforcement. - Duration - The effects from Moonshine are very short lived. Increasing the potency would be good for business.

He sighs wistfully as numbers begin streaming through my head. I accept the quest.

“Can I have some Fairyhome seeds?”

He’s clearly caught off guard, eyes widening. After a moment, his body language relaxes and he nods solemnly.

“Yeah, I can swing that. I’ll prep some seedlings for you for tomorrow. Emmet should be back by then as well.”

We retire for the evening, and I drift off to sleep with visions of coin dancing through my head.

***

Emmet is flustered as he arrives.

“You sure know how to start trouble. You’ll have to hide in the wagon again. They’re searching for someone to blame for an incident at the mill.”

I groan.

“Yeah, that kind of slipped away from me. In my defence, I was only planning on stripping them naked and posing them in a compromising position.”

He shakes his head as he starts loading the cart with goods for the town.

“And I suppose you slipped and maimed them for life?”

Korrom chuckles at this. Emmet glowers at him for a moment. I’m just standing there trying not to look too guilty about the entire thing. I wish it’d happened differently, but maybe it worked out for the best. I break the uncomfortable silence.

“Let’s head off to your farm. I bet Tiene is getting restless.”

As I get into the wagon, I find a new backpack sitting there. I look at the others. Emmet shrugs and gets ready to leave. Korrom looks bashful.

“I reckon you could use an upgrade to that manky old thing you were dragging around. The seedlings are wrapped in there, but try to plant them within two weeks, or they’ll start to deteriorate.”

I open the pack to check out the plants.

Fairyhome - Rare. - Known effects: Luminescent. - Base chance to cultivate: 5% - Seedling prepared by Korrom: Base chance to cultivate increased by 20%.

There’s a bottle underneath, glowing softly.

Paraton Moonshine - Imparts Perfect Sense (Physical).

I jump out of the cart, grabbing the little guy by his shirt.

“That’s worth a fortune you dumbass, you can’t waste that on a fucking adventurer like me!”

His voice is tight, emotional.

“Then maybe you should give it back.”

He grabs my head by the ears, looking into my eyes.

“You’ve shown a lot of promise, kid. Stay true to yourself, and do what’s right.”

I’m touched by his words, and I’m about to say something when he rears his head back, smacking his forehead into mine.

***

I wake up during the ride back to town with a splitting headache. A debuff tells me I’m going to be dizzy for another hour. I settle in for the ride as I feel every bumpy road on the way back to the town. I silently curse the developers as I try to rest.

When we get to the town square, the cart stops. From my hiding place, I can hear the mayor and Mr. Houg talking.

“Emmet, you came down from the Gennet farm, right? Did you hear anything about this unfortunate happening?”

Emmets answer is muffled, it sounds negative.

“We caught the perpetrator, but I doubt she acted alone. None of the three are willing to speak though. Seems the big one wants to deal with the issue himself. Sal is a follower. Fred is catatonic, so nothing useful from him.”

My heart starts thumping. Mr. Houg chimes in.

“We’re sentencing her later today. That should put it to rest.”

Emmet replies, and we start moving out of the town. As soon as I think we’re alone, I get out from my hidden spot.

“What are you doing boy, get back down. We’re not far enough from the town yet!”

I lean in closer to him.

“We need to get back. That all happened because I needed to help Yadra. If she’s getting punished for it, it’ll all be for nothing.”

He rolls his eyes. I gesture towards the town.

“I still need to talk to the mayor to get the introduction I need. Come one, go back there and as him to come here. I’ll be able to talk to him. Please…”

He groans loudly.

“Fine. For fucks sake, you’re turning out to be a lot of work you know. If it wasn’t for Tienes help the last few days I’d let you go back yourself. Just hide here and I’ll be back soon.”

Jumping off the cart, he starts walking back to town and I hide.

***

“You do know this is awfully suspicious Emmet? I mean, dragging me into the forest like this?”

The mayors voice is as far from concerned as I’ve ever heard it. That man doesn’t let anything threaten him. I can hear Emmet rolling his eyes.

“I know. Wish it was different. You know me though, there’s a good reason.”

The sound of someone slapping someones back harder than necessary, then a grunt. I get out from behind a tree. The mayor smiles when he sees me.

“Tee, my boy, how are you? I was wondering where you’d gone to.”

The mayor looks sideways at Emmet as he speaks. I smile back, moving to shake his hand.

“I’m good Mister mayor. Been busy getting those skills your friend needed. I’m ready to leave now if you’re still willing to vouch for me.”

He raises an eyebrow.

“Are you now? That’s fantastic! I’ve sent the letters already. If you leave today it’ll arrive a week before you. That doesn’t really explain this cloak and dagger stuff though. Could that be related to the Candrids asking around for you?”

I smile grimly, nodding.

“Let’s just say they aren’t happy right now. They’ll get over it. But if young Johnny Candrid comes asking, tell him where I’ve gone. I promised him.”

The mayor nods, then pulls an envelope from his jacket.

“Here’s the letter of introduction. Hand it to the Baron Brouswin when you get to his lands. He’ll help you find a suitable plot of land.”

You have been given a quest: The Barons introduction. - Meet with the Baron Brouswin and deliver the letter of introduction. - Success: Meeting with the Baron. - Failure/Reject: Disappoint the mayor of Hogsmudd.

I accept the quest by taking the letter. The mayor looks at me expectantly.

“Was there anything else you wanted?”

Meeting his eyes, I take a deep breath.

“Yes. I want you to release Yadra to my care.”

This, at least, gets a reaction from him.

“What? I can’t do that! She committed a serious crime!”

I look away.

“I know she did. I was there. She did it so I didn’t have to. They had her captive for days, and I was trying to rescue her.”

Understanding dawns in his eyes.

“Ah. I’m not that surprised. I knew that scoundrel would go too far one day and someone would bite back. Nevertheless, I can’t just release her to you.”

“How about this. Sentence her to a large fine. As large as you need to. Then use this to pay it, releasing her to my custody.”

With a heavy heart I get the bottle from my backpack. Every time I get some cool stuff, I lose it immediately. I guess I just can’t have nice things. The mayor tries hide his reaction, but I see his excitement.

Skill increased: Social Perception.

“For that? I’d have to make some arrangement with Mr. Houg.”

He pretends to think about it for a moment before agreeing.

“I’ll see what I can do, but you’ll have to leave fast afterwards. You’re a known associate of hers. The Candrids will be paying attention.”

We shake hands, and Emmet takes me back to his farm.

***

Tiene meets us as we disembark. She’s happier than I’ve ever seen her, covered in muck and grease.

“There’s so much stuff to do here! I have so many ideas. Tee, will our new farm be anything like this?”

Our farm? I smile at her.

“It depends on the plot of land we get, but whatever I’m offered, we’ll make the most out of it.”

She seems happy with the answer, pulling me along to show me her contraptions.

By nightfall a large wagon arrives at the farm. The mayor waves as he arrives. In the back is a supply of oats, water, rations and a very annoyed Yadra. She starts cursing up a storm as soon as she’s out of the wagon. We ignore her, which only serves to further incense her.

“I felt a little bad, taking advantage of you like I did. You’re a good man, if a little naive. The bottle you gave me was worth more than her release, so I got you this wagon. The horses are fresh, and there’s enough food and water to reach your destination inside. You can use it or sell it when you get there. Here’s a map showing the route to your destination.”

Yadra steps between us.

“Do you think I’ll let you take me along as some kind of property? I made it clear earlier, didn’t I? I’m not going to work for you!”

She’s more animated than I’ve ever seen her, and I’m forced to take a step back.

“Hey, no, lets not get ahead of ourselves. I’ve worked with you long enough to know that there’s no way I can force you to do anything.”

I look at the mayor. He seems very interested in what I’m going to say next. I look her in the eyes.

“Think about it. Leaving town is probably a good idea. We have transport and a destination. May as well come with us. When we get there, we’ll see what you decide. Maybe you escape on the way, maybe you leave when we get there. Either way, you’re out of the area. And I’m pretty sure the Baron will need skilled people in his keep.”

She folds her arms across her chest, glaring first at me, then at the mayor. He shrugs and turns towards the road.

“She’s in your custody now. Best of luck!”

Her eyes threaten to burn through my soul, but I’ve spent enough time with her to know she’s not as angry as she seems. She’s considering the offer. Soon, she throws her hands in the air.

“Whatever.”

She storms off, grabbing Tiene on her way, sweeping her away for a session of complaining about me, no doubt. I look to Emmet.

“How about you? Any advice before we start off on our trip?”

He raises an eyebrow, looking towards the women walking away.

“Stop sleeping. With Tienes ingenuity and Yadras sheer cussedness there’s a reasonable chance they’ll kill you in your sleep.”

I fake a laugh and flip him off, which makes him smile.

“I’ve got a sack of grain you can have though. Should help getting you started on your new plot of land. And don’t forget to write when you get there, we’d like to know how you turn out.”

I shake his hand, and we start preparing the trip.

***

Nine days later we arrive at the keep.

“I think the back wheel is going to fall off again.”

Closing my eyes, I count to ten. When I turn around, Tiene is asleep, draped across an empty barrel. Her clothes are muddy and unwashed, and her normally light skin has been darkened by exposure to the sun. Yadra is sitting next to her, a faraway look in her eyes.

“What do you mean? It’s not falling off, we secured it…”

With a crash the wheel falls off, shaking the wagon. Tiene shoots up, bloodshot eyes wide open.

“Watch out, the poofs, they’re… they’re… where are we?”

She looks around in confusion for a moment before sagging back onto the barrel, sobbing quietly. Yadra’s eyes haven’t stopped staring into nothing.

“Don’t be so smug, we made it hours this time. Besides, we wouldn’t have been in this situation if you hadn’t traded away the linchpin.”

I get out of the cart to check out the damage. The tools come flying out of the wagon, nearly hitting my head.

“Thanks. Can you comfort Tiene? We can see the keep from here, it should improve her morale.”

Like a robot, Yadra stands up, helping Tiene to her feet.

“I wouldn’t have had to trade the linchpin if you didn’t poison the Leputrian chief’s Wolpertinger.”

Yadra’s voice is devoid of emotion, while Tiene’s sobs finally stop. I grab a nearby twig, whittling it to a more appropriate size.

“It jumped on my head and started eating me. It’s not my fault dryads blood is poison to those creatures. Besides, who’s idea was it to take the shortcut in the first place?”

With a heave, I manage to get the large wheel back onto the axle. There’s structural damage here, but I can’t fix that with the equipment I have. It should last the final kilometre.

“I think she passed out again. Will she be okay when we get there? She did not deal well with the golem village.”

A long moan from Tiene turns back into sobbing as I slip the improvised linchpin into the groove, locking the wheel in place. I stand, wiping the sweat from my brow.

“That’s just great. Keep pushing her back to that place. What next? Should we talk about the cannibalism too?”

I get some mud from the soft ground, packing it around the linchpin. It should help it expand a little, keeping it in place.

“At least the cannibalism was clean. Do you remember what happened afterwards? I passed through a damn worm, Tee. A worm!”

Yadra’s voice reaches a crescendo towards the end. At least she’s starting to sound like herself again. I stand by the wagon, slowly stroking Tiene’s hair as she tries to pull herself together.

“Oh, we’re bringing up the worm now? Boo hoo, Yadra got slimy. You want to know what really sucks? Being chased down by a horde of chittering Fangslimes. You passed through in one piece. I’m sure pieces of me are still being passed through those hungry little bastards and…”

Tiene sits up screaming.

“We agreed we wouldn’t talk about Pleasant Valley!”

I look at Yadra with a sheepish look. She huffs, looking away for a minute before looking back at me.

“I’m sorry Yadra. At least we’re here now. Just another couple of hours until we can find an inn, and a warm bath.”

She nods as she sits next to Tiene, hugging her close. I jump back into the front seat, egging on the powerful Foxburro.

“What did you say the chief wanted with the horses?”

Yadra mumbles something, then oomphs as I hear the sound of an elbow to the gut.

“Yadra convinced him that they were unicorns who had hidden their horns.”

Tiene sounds better after her outburst.

“I’d guess that either the horses grew horns, or the Leputrians are going to eat well. I thought hares were herbivores…”

I roll my eyes at Yadra’s humour.

“That’s great. At least we got this guy out of it.”

The beast in front of us is build like a bull, with a long pointy face, triangle ears and smooth red fur. Remarkably intelligent as well. We spend the rest of the journey to the keep in silence as I contemplate the trip. We stopped by several little towns on the way, but there wasn’t any mail from my friends, and no activity on our website. I send a letter to Mika updating him on where I’m going, telling him to get there as soon as possible. Even though he’s lying less than five metres away, I miss the big lug. And Rishi. I make myself sad thinking about her, wishing she’d talk to me again soon. At least I’ve been able to upload a bunch of videos of our trip. With any luck we’ll start earning a little money. There’s less than 14 days in game left until we’re going to run out of credits.

***

We arrive at the Barons keep late at night. The surrounding area is flat, broken up by wetlands and a large forest, with a few small hills. The temperature is brisk this late, mild during the day. The keep itself is larger than I’d expected, with banners hanging along the outside walls from the crenellations. Ostentatious displays of fire illuminates walls made from multicoloured stones. Crystal latticework adorns every gap in the battlements, and stained glass windows every window. The entire place seems like a demonstration of the owners opulence. The gates open when we get near, and the guards welcome us as I step off the cart.

“Welcome to Providence Keep sir. We’re going to search your wagon for any contraband. Afterwards you can stable your… whatever the hell that is at the inn over there.”

His uniform shows the same emblem hanging from the banners everywhere. An azure diamond cut gem on a maroon field, surrounded by golden coins. I help the others down from the cart, and Yadra runs off as soon as the search is over, heading to the inn. The guards seem curious about the fairyhome seedlings, but their commander orders them to let me through. I assume because I have a letter of introduction. They tell me the Baron is unavailable right now, but they’ll send a messenger when he knows when he’s ready to receive me.

Tiene, still in control of what money I had, stumbles into the inn with the rest of our money, arranging a large room with two beds, breakfast included, and the hottest bath they can provide. Yadra has wrangled a job for herself already, as a barkeep, making sure we don’t get any preferential rates. I make sure Tiene tips her appropriately. As soon as Tiene comes back from her bath, we start drinking. She’s clearly not used to alcohol, and after the second mug I guide her upstairs. I get some looks from Yadra, but I’m in no mood to deal with her right now.

As soon as we’re in our room, Tiene starts undressing, stumbling into every piece of furniture we have. I gently steer her towards one of the beds, getting her under the covers. In her twilight state she starts mumbling something and I lean closer to hear.

“No, Tee, we have to wait. Not now. Oh, okay.”

I stand up, feeling my heart beat faster. Wow, no, it is not appropriate for me to be this close to her right now. I walk quietly back to my bed, hoping that sleep will claim me soon enough. At least the trip netted me some skill increases. I check my character sheet as I drift off.

TeeCeePath of Soil and Water

ProfessionsFarmerLevel 1

AbilitiesCharisma5Curiosity2Endurance8Focus1Fortune1Strength5

SkillsAnimal Handling2Athletics3Bludgeoning weapons1Butchery2Crafting2Cooking4Customer Service2Deception3Dodge1First Aid1Herbalism3 (Profession Enhanced)- Mycology1Leadership1Perception8- Social Perception6Repair2Resilience2Running3