Weaving...
Weaving...
Chapter 1.06
Relc and Klbkch visited Erin at the abandoned inn, explaining the mechanics of classes, leveling, and the world's geography. The guardsmen revealed their advanced combat classes, and Erin leveled up as an Innkeeper, gaining her first skill.
Relc and Klbkch visited Erin at the abandoned inn, sharing a meal of Corusdeer meat and continuing their conversation from previous encounters. Seeking to understand her bizarre situation, Erin asked the two guardsmen about the surrounding world.
Erin learned about the nearby city of Liscor and its place in the world, as well as distant locations like Baleros and Pallass. The guardsmen explained how Liscor's supply lines from Pallass were frequently hindered by geographical hazards like the Blood Fields. When Erin brought up her home state of Michigan, Klbkch and Relc were entirely unfamiliar with it, helping to cement the reality that she was no longer on Earth. They also discussed the different species inhabiting the world, including Humans, Drakes, Antinium, and Oldbloods, as well as the Mage's Guild's role in handling spells like Teleportation.
The conversation eventually shifted to the mechanics of leveling and the world's class system. Klbkch and Relc explained how individuals gained levels and skills through their daily actions, citing basic classes like Guardsman and Warrior. To demonstrate their own strength, Relc revealed his advanced class as a Spearmaster, while Klbkch revealed himself to be a Swordslayer.
As the discussion came to a close, Erin's efforts in managing the run-down building finally paid off. She experienced a sudden notification, successfully leveling up in her Innkeeper class and acquiring the Basic Crafting skill.
Klbkch and Relc visited Erin at the abandoned inn to talk and share a meal of Corusdeer.
A young woman from Earth who stumbles into a fantasy world and takes refuge in an abandoned inn.as
aka Erin, the traveller +64
Small inn where Erin is present; currently occupied by her. Noted by the Watch as having been abandoned years ago but Erin is using it; the Drake and Klbkch enter here to investigate.
aka the inn, Abandoned hilltop inn +27
A guardsman referenced by a rookie as likely getting punishment duty for breaking windows.
aka Guardsman Relc, Senior Guardsman Relc +13
Erin learned about local geography, including Liscor, Pallass, and the dangerous Blood Fields, while realizing her home of Michigan was completely unknown to the guardsmen.
While explaining the mechanics of leveling, Relc and Klbkch revealed their primary combat classes to be Spearmaster and Swordslayer, respectively.
Erin gained a level in her Innkeeper class and acquired the Basic Crafting skill.
An Antinium Senior Guardsman in the city’s watch; arrives at Erin’s door and greets her.
aka Senior Guardsman Klbkch, ant-man +31
The local municipal law enforcement tasked with keeping order in cities.
aka The Watch, the guard +27
A species of large, sentient insectoid people; one arrives at Erin’s door with a companion.
aka giant insect, Ants +28
A magical potion that can heal injuries and cure ailments like poison.
aka Healing potion, cool liquid +8
A species of which Erin Solstice is a member.
aka Humans, smooth skin +4
A class skilled with spears.
aka [Spearmaster]
A class focused on running inns, hospitality, and tending to guests and establishments.
aka [Innkeeper], Innkeeper (class) +6
A skill that allows the user to create basic items.
aka [Skill — Basic Crafting], [Basic Crafting]
World mechanic where thinking races gain levels and classes. Some classes can be gained suddenly by satisfying class requirements without formal apprenticeship (e.g., gaining Farmer levels by growing many carrots). Some creatures (animals, Dragons) cannot level and instead retain natural might.
aka The Skills, leveling system +16
A combat class specializing in the use of swords.
aka [Swordslayer]
A class associated with members of the city watch, held by Relc.
aka [Guardsman], [Guards] +4
A sapient reptilian species dominant in regions south of Liscor, generally unfriendly to Humans.
aka lizards, giant lizards +3
“I have no sexual attraction towards Humans. Unlike you.”
“I did not believe a lesser one would be worth the risk. I shall make do with a replacement, and I will deduct the cost from my pay. Besides which, it was used to protect a civilian.”
“Me? I don’t like Humans. They’re scaleless, hairy, and they smell funny. I mean, this one’s nice, but I definitely wouldn’t want to see what it looks like under those clothes.”
“Yeah. Yeah, I’m glad we didn’t have to kill her.”
“Shut up. She just seems lonely, that’s all. Why else would a Human female want to hang out with a Drake and an overgrown bug?”
“Klb! That’s so devious! We can waste hours and say it was all an investigation! Now you’re thinking like a Drake!”
“—It’s not that I’m not interested. I have an open mind! I wouldn’t mind looking. If I was offered. They’ve got nothing on good scales, but I could get over the fleshiness. Maybe.”
“Mammary glands? Breasts, I think they’re referred to. Or maybe the word is tits.”
“Bet she didn’t know. And her expression when we walked in—she’s never seen a Drake or an Ant before in her life. Well, the Ant part makes sense.”
“I will endeavor not to in the future.”
“Apologies. It is unwise to hug those with exoskeletons. Please, are you hurt?”
“It seems more likely that she was hallucinating. However…she may have run into a fire-breathing salamander. I cannot imagine she would survive an encounter with a real Dragon. Armies would not.”
“Mm. It’s not very interesting. They are very fleshy.”
“How are you going to explain that to the Captain, huh? That’s supposed to be special-issue. We won’t even get another shipment of that quality for months, probably! All the way from Pallass once the Blood Fields are frozen.”
“Even if she was, who’d hide there? You’d have to be mad, or be a [Warrior] or [Survivor] to want to live by yourself. Plus, the plague! Do I look sick? Am I oozing?”
“You’re a regular do-gooder, huh? Trying to level up your…[Good Person] class? Is that a class?”
“I am sure you would prefer that. But we are being paid to work, not to enjoy ourselves. Moreover, you are eating all of this Human’s dinner.”
“Is she female? I could not tell with complete accuracy. She sounded so, but I have met few Humans in social settings.”
“Am I a Dragon? Aha. Haha. Well, that’s just—oh, Ancestors bite me. I mean, do I look like one? I’m not even Oldblood, but maybe I do. Klb, buddy, what do you think?”
“You are correct in at least one definition of the word. But speculation is pointless in any case. We investigated the smoke, and now we can make our report. She is not breaking the law since the inn was abandoned nearly ten years ago.”
“It was almost certainly safe as I and Watch Captain Zevara assured you repeatedly, Relc. Besides, that young woman’s presence is proof enough. She would be dead within the day if the disease were still present.”
“Do you mean to say you found a Dragon? Somewhere around this area? And you—survived the encounter. Unharmed?”
“Look. It’s complicated, and I can’t really explain. But would you believe…magic? Like a crazy, crazy, uh, teleportation spell?”
“You’re just an overgrown ant. You be quiet. Anyways, we’re special. Those guys are just amphibians that learned to walk on two legs. We’re related to Dragons. We’ve got special powers.”
“That is what I heard some small Humans saying once. But she’s female. And young, correct?”
“Of course we wouldn’t eat you! That’s barbaric, and besides, it’s illegal. I mean, okay, sure, it happens sometimes in distant villages, but we wouldn’t do that. Right, Klbkch?”
“Look. It’s getting sort of embarrassing. I’m not a Dragon. I’m a Drake. And yeah, we’re distantly related cousins, but Dragons are…there’s no way. That would be huge. You said you saw one? You sure it wasn’t a Wyvern? It was probably a Wyvern.”
“Of course not. Why would anyone make a healing potion that hurts when you use it? But look at that!”
“This is a world. Everyone levels in it. Humans, lizard people, talking insects, cats, dogs, Goblins…”
“…Yes. Yes, it is. I’m a Drake, not one of the Lizardfolk. There’s a big difference.”
“I’ll have a glass if that’s alright.”
“Please, it was nothing. That was merely a low-grade healing potion of no great worth. Let us call it payment for the meal. Unless, of course, you object?”
“Really? I thought those were birds.”
“We may be able to fit checking in there as part of our duties if we convince the Captain it is necessary.”
“She was quite interesting in any case. It was pleasant talking to her.”
“Well, after I got the eggs, there was a crab rock, I mean, a rock crab, and then I found blue fruits before that and…I met you two. A not-dragon and an insect. Who don’t want to eat me? Or is that after the meal?”
“Excuse me? I’m not a Dragon, Miss Human. I’m just an incredible Drake in service to the City Watch. Me and my idiot partner were on patrol when we noticed the smoke. May we come in? I promise we won’t bite.”
“I feel I must mention that you, personally, cannot breathe fire, Relc.”
“Her being a runaway would be most likely. I find it hard to believe any Human would wander so far into the grasslands by accident, and she did not seem to be looking for directions. Her magical teleportation story is also possible, but why would she not have asked to be taken to the Mage’s Guild? It is clearly a cover story.”
“So, a lesser healing potion of no worth, huh? You know, I’ve never heard you lie like that.”
“See, this. This is why no one else is willing to be your partner. Along with you being, y’know, you.”
“Inquiring into others’ personal affairs is only a matter for the Guards while we’re on duty. Respecting another’s personal space is a principle of social interaction.”
“Actually, I would like to correct you on that point. While the thinking races may level, animals and even creatures such as Dragons are not capable of leveling. Which is common knowledge.”
“Shut up. This is your fault. I told you I should go first. I’m not a horrific Ant.”
“Your hurtful remarks are unnecessary. Besides which, I believe we are getting off track. We are in the presence of a member of the general public, remember.”
“I will have another as well.”
“Nice rocks to laze about upon while we should be performing our duties.”
“I am sure it is.”
“This is a low-grade healing potion. If you pour it over your injury, it should heal your affliction.”
“I can. It’s the things on her chest.”
“She was not lying, at least not intentionally. But it is possible she was mistaken.”
“Would you have had me tell her the true value?”
“You know fully well that I have no levels in any class of the kind. I was merely being kind.”
“Not bad! Especially if you just got here a few days ago. Did the notification wake you up right as you were falling asleep? I hate that.”
“Or, and hear me out. Or…we could have more food and stay here longer.”
“Our pardons. We have not introduced ourselves. Allow me to correct this mistake. I am Klbkch, Senior Guardsman in the employ of the City of Liscor. This is my partner, also a Senior Guardsman.”
“What about it? Oh, are you wondering about mine? I’m a [Spearmaster]. This idiot’s a [Swordslayer]. We both have levels in [Guardsman] as well, but not nearly as much as our primary classes. Pretty cool, huh?”
“Or inflict other forms of bodily or mental harm upon you.”
“I told you. It’s flattering, but I’m not a Drag—oh.”
“Oh, that. New classes without an apprenticeship, you mean? Simple. You must have satisfied the requirements for the class, that’s all. I know it’s sort of weird gaining a new class suddenly, but it happens. I knew a guy who gained four levels in [Farmer] just because he kept growing carrots in pots next to his window. Not [Gardener], [Farmer]. I guess it was because he grew lots of carrots. Leveling is weird that way.”
“Indeed. It is part of our shared past. Once, of course, all races fought with tooth and claw and magic, but then they divided. Those who decided to forsake their natures and pursue a different truth received the gift of leveling, while those creatures who stayed true to their nature kept the might of their natures instead. According to historical records, at least. It is the subject of some studies, but that is the consensus.”
“We can breathe fire. Some of us can, at least.”
“I will accept gladly. But for now I am full, and I believe it is time to be going. We would not wish to intrude upon your hospitality for too long.”
“Um. I didn’t see anything when it happened. I just sort of turned the corner and—look, the point is I suddenly appeared around here. And then…Dragon.”
“Why don’t you shut up and let me talk? Look, Miss Human. You’re probably not sick if you’re still walking around.”
“We are still on duty, if you recall. The Captain will be expecting a report. If we do return, we will have more time to socialize.”
“The plague. This location was once a small community until everyone here died. Horribly. Admittedly, this was a decade ago, but it was evacuated and has been condemned since then.”
“Yeah, I’d bet on it. I’m not sure why a Human would be out here anyways, let alone in that place.”
“Plus, we’d know if a Dragon lived around here. They’re pretty obvious.”
“Deviant.”
“What do you think? I bet she’s some kind of runaway or a child that got separated from her clan. Do Humans have clans? Or is it all [Lords] and [Ladies]? Maybe she’s not even from this continent.”
“Yes. No. Maybe? Look, I level. You level. We level. Everyone levels, right? We all can level up in, uh, classes and gain skills. How am I doing so far?”
“Okay. Right. Um. Let’s pretend I have no idea what leveling or classes are. I’m, uh, from really far away, and we have different…traditions.”
“That is unusual. I was under the impression levels worked uniformly across all species. However, I too understand the issues of communicating leveling and the system of classes. Even so, it is odd to think there is a nation that does not teach it in some way. Unless you are referring to a cultural difference in classes?”
“Right, right. Let’s tell the Captain and get some sleep. Or rather, I’ll sleep and you do—whatever Ants do to sleep. Sitting-sleeping or whatever.”
“I believe it was my turn to do that. Apologize to the Human for your rudeness.”
“What a lonely girl.”
“I would prefer that you call my species by their proper name.”
“Not if they did not cause it. Intriguing. Was it a magical duel, perhaps? Some high-level spellcasting?”
“But you cooked it, then? Do you have levels in a [Chef] class, then?”
“Shut up. I’m still sorry. But yeah, there’s a big difference. I mean, sure, Humans say we look similar, but we’re totally different. They have those neck frills, and they’re way too colorful. We build cities out of proper stone, but the Lizardfolk live near water and can breathe underwater too, some of them. They have Naga and, like, jungles in Baleros. Whereas we Drakes like drier climates. We enjoy warm sun, open spaces…”
“Michigan? I’m not familiar with that city. Or is it a nation…? Is that north of here? Over the mountains, maybe? On this continent?”
“Well, there’s nothing wrong with you staying here. Aside from dying, that is.”
“Again, apologies. But could I trouble you to remove the bandage?”
“…Are you sure you’re not a Dragon?”
“So am I going to die by puking out my guts or something?”
“You idiot. I told you this is why I should have opened the door.”
“What, are you crazy? Let me talk. That was just a misunderstanding caused by seeing your face. I’ll straighten all this out.”
“I will accept the pasta and water as well. But may I inquire if you have any more meat-based dishes? Corusdeer, perhaps?”
“You said it poorly. I am merely rephrasing your words for the benefit of all.”
“Only a few Drakes can do it, okay? Not breathing fire is perfectly normal. And some of us can, so there.”
“Ooh, nasty. What happened there? Looks like a bad cut. Were those Goblins?”
“This is—I mean, is it safe? For Humans?”
“Do you believe she is a lawbreaker or fearful for her life?”
“There is a fish in the rivers near here. It secretes a mucus that damages the area it touches. Such as in this case. I have seen several similar afflictions as a guardsman.”
“Oh, a [Teleportation] spell? Was it a misfire or did someone target you? That’s a Mage’s Guild issue.”
“Shut up. Ahem. We were just sent here to make sure no Goblins or nasty creatures started living here. We’ve got no problem with Humans. Well, at least the non-violent kind.”
“Agreed. And it is very restful. You should attempt it sometime.”
“Shut up. Are you trying to scare her?”
“…No. No I do not.”
“Is, uh, that a bad thing? I mean, it’s a Dragon yeah, but isn’t he…?”
“It breathed at me. Fire. And then I was chased by little green men.”
“See? She gets it. Told you it was cool.”
“No, no I’m not. And how can I—I can’t thank you enough. That—that was a healing potion, right? How can I repay you for—”
“Oh no, thank you. I mean, this is probably worth—can I get you another plate? Or—or you could come back. I’ll feed you two again if you want—”
“Indeed. And I must apologize again, but our true intent in coming here was to ascertain the danger posed here.”
“So…scared Human female? Not a threat? Probably a traveller? Makes good pasta?”
“No, no. It’s for the best. Mind you, I think she figured it out.”
“I would gladly partake of nourishment if offered. However, we would not wish to deprive you of your meal.”
“Good job not scaring her.”
“Yes, but I have my badge on. You have not brought yours. Again. For the eighth day in a row. Therefore, I was the most logical choice to—”
“You are blushing.”
“No, actually I got lost and—this is stupid. Why am I making excuses?”
“Uh, yeah. Every time I fell asleep I kept leveling. I’m, uh, level 4.”
“Oh no, no. We level, it’s just, uh, different from you guys. And I never paid much attention in school and all that…”
“Oh no, no. Please don’t do that. I didn’t know it was so rude. If I’d have known, I’d have never—there’s a big difference between lizard people and Drakes, right?”
“Only a few differences, but the animosity between their cultures is—”
“I insist. That blue drink is really good, by the way.”
“…Just let me sleep.”
“…Are you a Dragon?”
“Move over. Let me show you how it’s done.”
“Goblins. And by the way, some Wyverns breathe fire too.”
“Indeed. We would not violate our duty as guardsmen.”
“Your duty? You’re…guardsmen? And you…you’re K—kbch?”
“It’s just a possibility. This, uh, place is sort of bad. For your health.”
“That would be a preservation spell. It is quite common among higher-class establishments.”
“Um. I gained levels just from cleaning an inn. And I wasn’t an [Innkeeper] before this. So why…?”
“They can level. Now, about what you just said. I’m not a lizard—”
“Please, I mean no harm. But your hand. May I see it?”
“It—sorry, it’s a mess. I cut my hand, and I guess it just got infected, but—”
“You have? I mean, it’s not an infection?”
“Please, do not be alarmed. This is treatable. Allow me.”
“What about the Dragon? Do you think she made that up?”
“…So someone on the walls spotted the smoke and called it in. Since it didn’t seem like a grassfire and since we knew this place was abandoned years ago, the Captain decided to send someone to check it out.”
“Uh—thanks. [Spearmaster]. Me. Him—[Swordslayer]. No, it’s cool. We’re [Guards]. Yeah.”
“Good evening, Miss Human. I was wondering if my colleague and I could take up a moment of your time—”
“Now what? I do not believe breaking and entering would be appropriate at this moment.”
“It—it doesn’t hurt!”
“Yep. Good thing it’s meant to treat light infections too. Klb, are you going to…?”
“Right. Well, let’s be going. Um, sorry about that, Miss. Here, let me just pay for the food…”
“Not you, specifically. Really, it could be anything. We thought it might be a random fire or a few Goblins. If there were some stupid kids, on the other hand, we’d be dragging them back right now since it’s dangerous to stay here. Bandits on the other hand…”
“Um. Sorry about that. Really. But, uh, can we talk about that name?”
“I will pass for the moment. We should get down to business rather than partake of food.”
“And not oozing.”
“So four levels in…? That’s too bad. But you’re young; leveling takes time after all.”
“Please, believe me. It will heal you.”
“Go roast yourself.”
“It is poison. Of a sort.”
“Let me just get a plate and…forks. Do you, uh, want a drink? I’ve got water.”
“So they are Goblins. But—well, hold on—then I found a giant dino-bird—”
“Oh, I found some flour and butter and stuff in one of the cupboards. It had a runey…thing on the shelves.”
“Yeah. You, um, called me a lizard person, right?”
“It is not an infection.”
“This really is quite good. How’d you make this all the way out here?”
“Be quiet. I’m in a good mood now.”
“To put it succinctly: we saw the fire and decided to investigate.”
“Indeed. There is no law against occupying this area.”
“Sorry, but can we ask you a few questions about where you’re from? It’s pretty odd to find a Human out here, let alone in an abandoned place like this. Not that we mean to pry, it’s just that it’s kind of our job to ask these questions.”
“Danger? Why danger? Is there something wrong with me staying here?”
“That’s pretty much how it works. What were you confused about?”
“Sorry, sorry, Miss. We’re not here to hurt you, I promise.”
“I’m from Michigan.”
“Here. Uh, I’ve got juice as well. Want a glass?”
“Yeah. I made it myself. It tastes good, really.”
“In a moment. Let’s eat first. This looks good!”
“Well, we’ll be off then. Good night to you.”
“So, shall we return tomorrow?”
“Oh, I see, I see. That’s convenient. Did you earn them here?”
“Well, I’ll gladly accept. Klbkch, you want any?”
“Oh, right. Those annoying things. What’re they called, Klbkch?”
“What, really? How about Goblins?”
“Um. Give me a moment. I’ll open this door.”
“What? Oh, it’s no problem. Ask away.”
“Uh. No. It’s a bit further than that.”
“Right, right. Um, good to know.”
“Uh, don’t apologize. Look, maybe I overreacted a bit. I’m not, uh, mad…”
“Yeah. That sounds amazing. Really…really cool!”
“We’re still cool, right?”
“Ooh! Pasta! This is good stuff!”
“Well, to begin with, may we inquire where you come from?”
“A big…big leathery thing. With wings.”
“And this blue juice tastes good!”
“Actually, the plague symptoms manifested themselves as—”
“Thank you—ow!”
“Razorbeaks. Go on, Miss.”
“Shut up, Klbkch!”
“Maybe it was a bad time?”
“Hello, Miss. Sorry if we—”
“W-want something to eat?”
“…Want another plate of pasta?”
“Bastard.”
“Oh, thank you. It’s…blue.”
“What, this? It’s nothing, it—”
“Sure, suuuure you were.”
“Food’s over there.”
“That’s what I said.”
“It’s very annoying.”
“…Yeah, sorry.”
“Yeah. A Dragon? Really?”
“Oh, definitely. Right after work?”
“You sure? It doesn’t feel like—”
“That was my assessment.”
“What? No. I’ve got lots of pasta.”
“Me? Hi, yes, me.”
“What? It’s a great power!”
“Fine. Antinium. Happy?”
“Hey, what did you just call—”
“Oh, so are you…lost? Or travelling maybe?”
“Are you alright?”
“Hello? Miss? We’re not dangerous.”
“Dying?”
“Ew.”
“Um, I don’t know?”
“From what? Me?”
“Oh. Right. Sorry.”
“Sorry. Sorry about that.”
“We wouldn’t?”
“Hey!”
“Is that wrong?”
“Um, no. No.”
“So…okay, let me think.”
“Really? So that means—”
“Yeah. Um, yeah.”
“Yeah, it’s awesome.”
“Good evening.”
“A pity.”
“…Hi.”
“…Hi.”
“It did.”
“…Indeed.”
“…Perhaps.”
“Indeed.”
“Indeed.”
“Shut up.”
“Pass.”
“Indeed.”
“Yeah. It is.”
“Okay. That’s great.”
“Thank you very much.”
“A what?”
“Relc!”
“Good. Thanks?”
“N-name?”
“Like what?”
“Miss?”
“Um, sure.”
“Oh, sure.”
“Right.”
“What?”
“Thanks.”