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New BeginningsI open my eyes to an unfamiliar ceiling. I go to stand up but I lose my balance and fall onto my butt letting out a small scream. I felt strange, but before I could do anything else a voice said "I see that you're finally awake". I stutter to ask, "where am I?", as my voice keeps throwing me off. I get a reply "In my sacred shrine". I immediately look around it looked familiar but I have never been here before, then I concentrated on the statue in front of me. The statue was of a goddess, it was spread and taught that this place and all other connections were destroyed but clearly that was to keep anyone from searching. I ask the goddess why I have been brought here. She replies "That amulet you have on has been cursed, when activated you're suppose to be obliterated. It went haywire and now you're here, somehow. You got through the entry restriction but don't worry I fixed that issue." She added amused, "That new body you have doesn't break the restriction anymore." I look down to a curvy and slender body, I was turned into a female and not only that I was also younger. I stood up and asked "Can I get something to cover up with please?", a simple white dress appeared on me and I was thankful for that. Going towards the statue to see details better, this place was familiar because it was was written down but also written that all connection to this goddess was destroyed. Inquiring "How long has it been since someone has visited?", adding solemnly "must be lonely". She replied "That it had been a while". I started to walk around the room doing what attendants would have done. The goddess demanded, "How do you know to do that? Also aren't you mad about your body, all others I did that to lost their mind to anger and fury?". I replied "I found a journal that described this and much more. I feel that it might have been one of the last surviving documents. I wish it came with me," as I finished up the attendants job. Approaching the statue, "Getting anger won't do me any good, nothing I do will cause you to change me back. Also you could have simply squashed me so I might as accept this," a couple seconds later I blurted out excitedly "also I am younger! A true blessing", covering my mouth a moment later embarrassed. She laughed, "You're quite different maybe you were cursed before and this is your true form". I asked puzzled, "Wouldn't you be able to see such a curse?", there was an immediate answer "You may not have been cursed directly, and since my view of the outside has been severed it's impossible for me to check for indirect curses," I noted "that must be frustrating, would have been nice to know." The goddess agreed then she proposed an agreement. Mainly she would help me get revenge on the ones that wronged me if I became her envoy. She also would give me eternal youth as long as kept being her envoy. This agreement was in favour of the goddess but to me the benefits were worth it. I enthusiastically declares "You have my eternal love and devotion", bowing to the statue. As I was blessed with position of envoy I felt the embrace of the goddess. There were many other rooms besides the goddess's room. One was for training so I started to train, getting use to the new body took time but with improved agility I had more options in attacking and defending. Outside there was a thick forest on all sides. As I foraged in the surrounding area, an abundance of resources made getting necessities a breeze. This place felt so peaceful compared to everywhere else, I soaked in that feeling any moment I could spare. Speaking to the goddess, allowed me to mention how the world seem to be, about major events that occurred that still had lasting effects to the day. While I was foraging I found pieces that of a relic. The first time the goddess spoke to me through our connection telling me that it was a piece of the apparatus that allowed her to observe a big part of the world with it, when the device move the observable area moved. Many nights had passed when I found the remaining pieces, and restored it to the point that cracks were invisible. There was a problem though, which became more obvious when it was restored, the parts that were set into it were missing. Without them this piece did as much as a rock. I discussed with the goddess what I should do next. She told me to take it so when I found something that looked like a suitable replacement I could try it out immediately. I was lucky when I found a nice and big rucksack which could hold all my supplies. For weapons I had the two short swords and some daggers that I found which I used during training. I also found some spare clothes but I stuck with the dress the goddess gave me, when I poured power into it I could alter it appearance with no limit it could also appear as multiple pieces at once. The next morning I got prepared quickly to set out. First I chose an outfit that a rogue might wear. While I wore the swords and rucksack on my back. Daggers placed on my belt. I chose to go west, trekking through the forest with a big bag on my back caused me to slow down to avoid tripping and falling. I was past midday when I reached the edge of the forest. Before I came out I noticed two soldiers carrying a cage between them nearby. The path they walked on hugged the forest, I stayed hidden as they approached my position. When they got closer allowing me a better angle I noticed they had a child in the cage. The goddess told me, "The power of the phoenix is emitting from that child and a connection to you," then she ordered me to save the child. I took off my rucksack and placed it against a tree, then I stepped out with swords unsheathed, charge at the closest one knocking him out before he could do anything. The other one was tipped off and was facing me with sword drawn before I could deal with him as well. I looked into his eyes and declared, "I will spare your life if you drop your weapon and retreat." He laughed "I'm not scared of you", then he charged at me. I dodge his sword swing with ease then I counterattack getting him in his side. He reacted quickly with rage. Then he started to recklessly swing his sword around which caused me to pull away but before I could get out of his reach I got scrapped on my arm. I stay out of his reach as he continue to swing his sword around. Didn't take long for him to tire out, he dropped his weapon and fell onto his knees. I looked into his eyes, all that was left was despair, all that confidence was fake, it was pitiful. I quickly went and got my bag then I returned he hadn't move at all. I took his weapon and moved it away from him, afterwards I treated him. I tell him that he should go back to his hometown and live a life that didn't revolve around glory since it's a constant chase and eventually it always would get away again. I handed him some food then he nodded, bowed then he got up and walked to his companion. Now all that is left is to open the cage. I crouched to examine the lock while the phoenix child stares at me through the bars. I close my eyes and begin to chant, "I am the seeker and any door before me shall open at my behest," there were a couple of clicks then the door opened. I could feel the fear and anxiety from the child as he constantly stared at me. I sigh and reach back into one of my bags pockets to get some water and food then I offer it to him. The phoenix child snatches both away and starts eating and drinking. As that was happening I get up and step back. I ask the goddess how the phoenix power worked and why I saved the child. She replied "When the host dies they get born again, but the memories are locked away until they reach certain conditions. Someone is looking for this power, it's not a good idea to allow them to get their hands on it. There is a chance that he could help restore the relic but that is not possible now. More importantly that connection to you may become useful in the future". I felt a tug on my clothing, he was looking up at me offering the water container I gave him. I took back it back, drank a bit then put it away. I crouch down to about eye level with him. I ask him if he wanted to go home, and immediately shook his head. Then I ask if there was a place he wanted to be taken and I got the same response but that wasn't surprising though. I offer, "Do you want to travel with me? It's going to be difficult at times though." For a few moments he stared into my eyes then he replied "Yes, I don't care sounds fun," then started smiling. I let a sigh out under my breath he most likely doesn't realize how difficult it could get but instead of worrying now I'll cross that bridge when it happens. "So what is your name?" I ask, he tell me that it's Vivaan. I smile back and pat his head, I tell him that we'll be setting off soon and to wait off to the side. I proceed to create a shallow hole with my power, I place the one I killed in and cover him up, I place a marker on his grave. I turn my attention to the cage, I close my eyes and envision the cage being crushed and condensed into a small ball. I go to pick it up it was heavy, not any weight was lost, so I used both hands then placed it on the grave as well. I go back to the child seeing that he was staring at me. I smile at him and then I say "Let us get moving down this road", I proceeded to walk in the direction of where they came from. A few moments later he rushed over to walk beside me, and inquired if I could teach him how to do that, I replied "That is a possibility". CrossroadsAfter walking a while a crossroads appeared ahead, the sign post was unreadable. There were a total of three paths so I ask Vivaan if he knew the path that had came from. He reluctantly pointed down one of the paths. I smile at him and start walking down the other. Vivaan hurried back to walking beside me. While walking he nervously asked me a question every so often, I answered any that I could. After a bit farther it was time to stop, I could tell that Vivaan was getting tired and it was getting late. I looked around for a place to set camp up. One side was a forest and the other pretty much open there were a couple bushes, so I went to see how it was behind one of them. It looked like a good place to set up, "come over here Vivaan." I took my bag off and took out my tent and set it up. Afterwards we eat dinner in silence. I sigh and look at the boy, then state "Okay let's hear it, I know you have questions you want to ask me". HE looked down fidgeting then he asked many questions without a pause in between, "Why did you save me? Who are you? Where did you come from? Where are you going? Do you know why I was locked in that cage? How did you do that before to that cage earlier?". I smile suppressing a laugh. Then I started to answer his questions, "You have hidden power which make your potential immense and people want to take advantage of that. Safe to assume those people will be my enemies so I couldn't allow them to do that. I partly saved you since there seems to be a connection between us, only fate knows what it is about.", I pause and smile at him then continue on "I have lived a life that is over now, I am now in service of a goddess. Where I am from is not important and where I am going is unknown to me. I used a power to crush that cage, it takes quite a lot of experience and practice to do what I did before, most can only do small things compared to me." He stared, and asked "What is your name though?". I look into the sky, and answer "I guess I don't have an name", look down back at him, adding "Just call me Aurora for now I guess," with a smile. I tell him that it is about time to go to sleep and tell him that he'd be sleeping in the tent. Vivaan then inquired if I'd also be sleeping in the tent and I told him that I'd be sleeping outside. He went inside and I fell asleep sitting up. I woke up to see Vivaan staring at me. Ignoring the stare altogether, "You must have woken up early, did you sleep well?" I question. He just shrugs. I get some food and some juice then give it to Vivaan. I packed up the tent, grabbed some food for myself, and put the bag back on. I take a bite of food, then turn towards Vivaan and ask him if he was ready to get back on the path again. He nodded then then we went back to the path, and started walking again. After a while a town started to come into view. This was a good sight to see, hopefully there I could gather the information and possibly a map. The town had a wall surrounding it, made of stone, approximately 10 feet tall. The gate was open and there were two guards on either side. As we get to the gate, one of the guards moved to block the way. I smile at the guard. He asks my purpose is in the city. I answer "I have recently gone on a pilgrimage I wander around, so maybe answers I seek are here. I assure you though I have no intentions to cause any trouble". He then asked if the child was mine. I answered that I found him abandoned and alone and that I'm helping him find his way back to where he belonged. The guard paused, probably not liking my answer. After looking at the boy and seeing him not disagree with what I said he continue on, "I have a feeling I am not going to like the answer to this next question. Do you have any identification papers or other documents?". I giggle, "You're going to enjoy this, I accidentally lost them when I wandered off into the wilderness." I hope the way I said that was believable, otherwise I might have to fight to escape and worse I could get captured which they might figure out who I am and it's too early for that. "MADAM!" the guard screamed at me, snapping me out of my train of thought. I apologetically say, "Sorry, an idea occurred to me and it just consumed all my thoughts", giving him a nervous smile. The guard sighed, "Well like I said I'll let you in but please get new papers, I assume you are acquainted with the adventurers guild so I'll give you directions", he then went into details on how to get there from here. Before proceeding I also asked where the market was and he described where it was compared to the guild, so after that I thanked him. Me and Vivaan walked into the city and proceeded by following the directions the guard gave. Once out of sight of the guards and with not many people around, I grab Vivaan's hand and stir him into an alley. I crouch down to be eye level, I see that his face is red, I feel his forehead and ask "Are you feeling unwell?", he stuttered "I am not sick, I... forget it. Uh why did you turn into this alley?". I decided to let the matter go. I explained that before getting to the guild that we needed to discuss a few things privately. I ask him if he had been to a guild before, he told me he never been but that his captors claimed to be with the guild and forced him to hold something". Those two probably knew bare minimum of the guild but what concerned me a lot is they got their hands on a revealing stone somehow. I gave a bare minimum explanation of a revealing stone, it was able to reveal information on the holder even stuff that they didn't know. I warned him that the guild had these stones so he should be careful and avoid activating one, I also added that the one that he used before wasn't one of the guild's. I told him that to stay close to me at all times while in the guild in case something goes wrong and that who I was should be kept secret. Before leaving the alley and proceeding on, I apologize to him for forgetting to prepare for the gate, also noted that we were lucky he didn't decide to interrogate you. I praised him for following along at the gate then I hugged him. I left the alley, took a few moments but he came back to my side, still flushed again. Arriving at the guild, the building was big and well maintained, they must be doing pretty well lately. The GuildEntering the guild I take a look around, it was familiar. The Adventurers Guild was a place where people could give requests to do a job, lots of these jobs consisted of things that people didn't feel like doing some of which got a little silly at least to me. There were serious jobs as well such as finding a medical herb or destroying monsters. There was also requests given by the guild, usually it was to gather various materials, also frequently the cash reward was small but the non-physical part of the reward made up for it, the guild's acknowledgement and appreciation. If you contributed in some way to them, they'd help you the best they could if you ever were in need of help. I notice where the counter is and go there. When I get there the receptionist was reading a book, engulfed in it she didn't notice me standing there. I look at the cover and smirk, I know this story. I lean in and soft and firmly say "O' my weary heart yearns for your love", controlling my voice so anyone else wouldn't be able to over hear the words but it was enough that they heard I was saying something. The receptionist ears turned red, a few moments later she noticed me, which caused her to jump back, I quickly grab her arm and stop her from falling. She became embarrassed, "Thank you for saving me and sorry I didn't notice you there, um how can I help you?". I began to say "I'd like to register here", but upon hearing my voice she flushed a deeper red and began hide her face behind her book. I waited for her to regain some of her senses. She peeked at me from behind her book, I smiled at her, "We could get to know each other," acknowledging her reaction, then immediately stated "but I think it'd be a good idea to stay focused and be a little formal though." She sprung up, composed herself and stated "Right, sorry about that, you say you want to register? does that mean you haven't registered before at any guild before?" she asked. "I don't think so, I don't remember though sorry, will that be a problem?", I ask a bit nervous. She smiled, cheerfully said "Well we can figure that out, though!", she then noticed Vivaan, asked "Is he with you?". "He needed help which I gave and now he is under my care currently". She narrowed her eyes at him, stated "Oh I see, anyways please follow me, she opened the counter's door and proceeded to a door located behind her. I followed, she first unlocked a magically lock then used a key that was around her neck, she opened the door. She gestured for me to go in first. I walked into the room, Vivaan rushed in behind me bumping into me since I suddenly stopped. It was a small room a table, couple chairs, and my worst nightmare. The sight made my heart sink it was a big revealing stone, size of a full length mirror, it's purity was high. I could've got it to display false results if it was smaller or less pure. The receptionist walked past me and stood beside the stone urging me to come over and place my hand on it. I slowly approach and I raise my hand but stopping short of touching it. I am going to be exposed for my affiliation with the goddess, might display other information that could look suspicious as well. Once exposed I'd be put on a capture list top priority huge rewards, and chances of escaping this town would already be slim. Next thing I knew the receptionist declare "there, nothing to be nervous about", she had grabbed my wrist and moved my hand to touch the stone. The stone started glowing, analyzing me. No one really knew how the stone fully worked, but it was figured out that pouring in enough of your power into it, you could muddle the results. Although the amount needed depended on the stone and results were unpredictable. Those results would be frequently strange so you'd be exposed for trying to hide something. I developed a way to fix results to what I wanted but the method required a lot more power and needed great control over the power as well. Only thing I could do was see how the chips were going to land from this. The information appeared, the receptionist starting going over the information, I didn't have the heart to look. "This isn't right, how can this be true information" she exclaimed. I look at my information, she wasn't exaggerating, one my name was blank, and but the spot for nickname filled in, it was the name I told Vivaan to call me. Age was off is displayed 567 years with brackets of less than a year inside. I had a bunch of titles though, most I recognized some were new, such as everlasting beauty, future savior, hero, goddess's envoy. My religion was right sadly, too bad that didn't get messed up information. Although I was relieved to see that my gender was displayed correctly though. Other information displayed fine to me, but one part caught my eye in particular it was future glimpse there was information displayed, before that part was always glitched for me before it'd show a bunch of gibberish or static. The information read, 'One that brings lost knowledge, and sees the truth', not clear but that was normal and good since knowing too much could influence the person enough to cause the future to happen differently. The receptionist pullout a piece of paper unroll it and placed it against the stone. I ask "What are you doing there?", she replied "This is just recording the information shown, it's for record keeping". The receptionist then asked me to sit on one of the chairs. I went over to the table pulled out a chair and motioned for Vivaan to sit instead. He gave me a look that seemed like he wanted to say something but went and sat in the chair, then he looked at me and I smiled at him. I sat on the table twisting my body to look at the other side of the table as the receptionist sat down on the other chair. She looked at the paper she used to copy my results, she explained "Something must have caused these results, so I need to get more accurate information on the anything that looks wrong." I smile, "okay" holding my nervousness in, she could've contacted someone outside secretly and they're prepping to capture me when I leave the room. She smiled back, and said "Well let us go through this, no name but a nickname so I assume it's fine to use that instead", I gave a short reply "Yeah definitely". She continued, "The age is strange, there are cases of brackets but I don't see any power or ability that explain your case though. The other number is more than 500 years that can't be possible," she then gave me a good look over adding "you don't look older than 28, I am correct?". I answer "That sounds about right, you have a good eye.". She looked back at the paper, "Some of this odd information I'll leave it as is since someone couldn't know what information is true without having it revealed without issue. Although for your abilities are you familiar with most of them? Are you confident in your skill?", I answered confidently "I feel that I am familiar with most of the abilities, I must be blessed. I'm skillful not many would be able to best me", she cautioned "I hope that isn't just talk it be very upsetting if you got hurt". She added "Wouldn't it be great if that eternal beauty title was true. Are you really an envoy of a goddess? Also I never heard of this religion or goddess. Have you always been a follower? If so are you from a remote region?". I was a little taken back by that, something must have happened for the goddess to not be known so I answered truthfully, "Yes I am an envoy, but I stumbled into it, I think it was forgotten. Also it'd be great if I did have that title, I hope I do". She then asked "do you have any questions?". I asked her what her name is, she replied that is was Amala. I asked when my registration would be fully complete, the answer I got was it was gonna be about three days at least. I ask "Is there any inn you recommend to stay at", I remember that I don't have any money so I quickly add "also is there any place that will buy stuff without getting ripped off or somewhere that needs help between now and night time since I just remembered I don't have any funds", letting out a nervous hehe right after. She thought for a bit, answering "there are a couple stores depending on what you're selling." She listed off some places and what type of stuff they'd buy. She continued, "For places that need help I don't think any would care to trust a stranger, also most make it into a guild request. Which you can't take till your registration is done. I might have a solution though but before that would he like to register as well?". I answer "No, isn't it risky for someone young to have their information revealed?". She smiles and reassures me, "When someone that is young applies only their basic information is exposed, the other information is sealed till an appropriate time.", she then looked at Vivaan and asked "Would you like to register?". He then looked at me, I could tell that he was interested registering. I let out a sigh, and state "I have one condition, I will seal the information personally and I'm not compromising on that.". She replied "The guild has always done the sealing its not policy. Also are you sure you could do that? Sealing magic is quite difficult." I smirk, "Don't worry about that, let me show you my abilities aren't some glitch.". Things proceeded like before but Vivaan's results were normal compared to mine, his age had brackets which inside them was his age and outside was how old the phoenix was. Afterwards, she handed me the paper and asked if I needed a catalyst to use for the sealing. I shook my head, I didn't need one. I start the chant, pouring in most of my power into it, a risk but worth making sure the seal was secure. I then hand it back to Amala, her face was frozen in astonishment, I ask "Is there a problem?", she exclaimed "It's not possible to seal something without a catalyst!". That was a mistake, I thought she mentioned it since she thought I was an amateur, something is wrong. I need to be more careful until a figure out what's going on. I brag "It seems I have reached another level of understanding. Anyways you said something about having a solution to my issue mentioned earlier?". She took the hint of wanting to change the topic and responded "You know that book I was reading well you seem to know it. It's quite rare but you probably know that already but I was wondering do you know the whole story since my copy is missing parts. If remember all or any parts I'd like them written down and in exchange I'll let you stay at my place, I have some extra room anyways". I replied "I might remember parts that you're missing, otherwise I'll owe you a couple favours". Written RecordAfter a bit of waiting at in the main area of the guild, for Amala to get the paper work stored properly and ready for further progress in getting registration finished. We left right after that, after a bit of walking and a couple of turns we made it to her place. She turned around to face us as we entered her place announced "Welcome to my place, make yourself at home and please don't mind the mess. Her place was cozy, the main room, where we were, had a small kitchen beside that a square table, while the rest was a living room. All around there was books lots of books, and some clothing. There were some doors, they must have lead into her bedroom, bathroom, small closets and one most likely was a spare room. I tell Vivaan to go sit on the couch and wait for me there. I turn back to Amala and ask where I could go to change my clothes in private. She pointed to one of the doors on the opposite side of the room, and stated "That door over there leads to the extra bedroom." I thanked her and went into the room closing the door behind me. The room was pretty plain for furniture a small bed, nightstand, a dresser, a desk and chair. I place my bag on the desk. As I remove and put my weapons in my bag I contact the goddess. "Something is off, your name wasn't recognized and my age showed up weird.", she responded to me "There isn't an issue with your soul mark but there is another mark but it's different might be the cause of the brackets in your age." I ask "What is a soul mark and how is it related to my age? Also Is that second mark dangerous?". The goddess stated "To put it simply when you are born your soul gets a unique mark etched on it and you can tell when it was placed on a soul. I have never seen a mark like it and I don't see how it can be dangerous. Also don't tell anyone about soul marks". I started to think about it, if it's true then when I fell unconscious to when I woke up more than 500 years had passed, "So that means I was thrown through time by that curse, meaning I also lack a lot of information on the happenings of the world, I guess that should be my focus now. At least some things are the same though.", I add "Thank you for telling me that information.". I untransform my clothing, I pick up my bag and leave the room. I look around and see Amala has started to cook some food, I go over there. I get her attention, "I'll take a look at that book's condition now if you don't mind." I request. She replies "sure", picking up the book from a nearby counter and offering it to me. I take it and go sit on the couch, placing down my bag near the couch. I open the book and skim through it, most of the damage was on the end of the story. A story without conclusion what a terrible fate. I close the book, having a closer look gave me warm feelings, restoring it was the right choice. I twist myself to face Vivaan, placing the book between us. I say "Let's began your training. Has anyone shown you how yo sense the power flowing within you?", he shook his head. I tell him to hold out his left hand and close his eyes. He followed my command, I put my hand around his. "Keep your thoughts on your hand", start to channel my power into one of my hand into the other, passing through Vivaan's hand. He questioned "My hand feels strange it feels like something warm is flowing through my hand.", adding nervously "Is that normal?". I reply, "Its excellent you feel my power flowing through your hand. You must have a talent for this. Is the sensation uncomfortable in anyway?", he replied "No it's pleasant just strange". I stop the flow of my power and ask "Do you want to go to the next step? It's a big one, you'll get similar feeling that your hand had but it will linger." He opened his eyes, "I want to do cool and amazing things as soon as possible!", I place my finger over my mouth, I look over to the kitchen to see Amala was too concentrated to notice his outburst. I warned "No complaining if it bothers you", I grab and hold his hand then send a surge of my power into him. He reacted "My hand feels really warm and its going up my arm". I reply "I pushed a portion of my power into you. Its going to spread throughout your body. You need to get familiarize how it flows in your body, remember it. As you get more use to the feeling you should begin to sense your own power." I reach over into my bag and grab a potion then a drink it, giving me a good portion of power. I pick up the book in both hands. I say "Watch this", then began to pour in my power into the book, changing the wavelength to match it's own. The book started to glow, the scuffs on the cover disappeared. I open the book the holes in pages were disappearing, missing pages regenerated. Look of the pages looked nearly new. Amala then announced that food was ready to eat. Vivaan rushed over to the table, I followed with the book in my hands. I sit down, Vivaan was to my right and Amala sat to my left. The food was simple but looked delicious, it was meat stew and some bread sliced. Once we were all sitting, Amala said "Please help yourself," with a smile on her face. I had a feeling she was use to cooking for someone else but it been a while. I look at Amala, "Thank you so much for letting us stay here, even though we were complete strangers earlier today. This is very generous of you, I know I agreed to help fill in blanks for your book but if you need a favour or two just let me know. Especially since I have finished with the book," I offer the book over to her. She takes it and questions me, "What do you mean?", looking at the cover intently. I tell her to open the book, when she opened the book she reacted with surprise, "How did you do this?". I respond "I gave it more essence using my power, the technique isn't complex but it's quite difficult to do properly though.", she looked at me quizzically, "Can you give me a basic explanation of this?". I answer "Sure, but let's start eatting", I fill my bowl with stew and offer to fill her, she moves her bowl closer and I fill it. I eat a couple of bites then state "In basic terms, as I put power into an object I change the wavelength to match the object's wavelength. It's now able to utilize this to restore itself if damaged, otherwise it maintain it's optimal state for longer. The tricky part is matching wavelength. Also pouring too much into an object can cause side effects." She then asked "Could you teach someone how to do it?", I answered "I could but the real issue is if they'd be able to implement my teachings correctly though.". After that I inquiried about any books that kept record of historical events and other such information. She mentioned that the library had many such texts, also that she had one. The food was great and filling, when full the rate of recover for my inner power would be increased. I insisted that I'd clean up, which got compromised to me helping out. All three of us chatted about mundane things such as my plans were, and how Vivaan started to travel with me. Vivaan took the spare room and I decided to sleep on the couch. After they both left, I grabbed the record book that Amala mentioned. I opened it, on the first page "This record is to honour all those that fought to protect this world from The Great Incursion. They ushered in a new era. The year now begins at the end of the aforementioned event, a new beginning, year 0 NE". This could be what caused much of the destruction of knowledge. I continued to read, I figured out much. The event lasted years, it was unknown how long but speculated that it was around 40 years. Which made knowing the cause of this event also a mystery. The unknown cause made the protection against the demon gods to weaken greatly, allowing them to meddle with the world more severely than ever before. Whole communities burned down, any survivors were scattered. Many more powerful monster appeared. There were still places that stood and fought back the hordes successfully but there was no stop to hordes. There were some courageous scouts that found out what was keeping the protection be stay weakened but it was too heavily guarded to sneak in and destroy. From that information they made a plan that an elite force of a 100 combatants would make travel and destroy that device. There was quite amount of information on these 100 people. It mentioned how the recover went. It took a quite a while for things to normalize. This amount of time must have caused knowledge to not be rewritten or passed before it was lost. Also thr going wasn't smooth either, some resorted to crime to get by. The main reason recover was steady and total collapsed was prevent was by the guild. They did much to keep things on track and this got them prestige and recognition that greatly increased their influence. Which no doubt allowed them to prosper. There were other events that happened but quite small in comparison. One other important piece of information was that it seemed like the protection never fully recovered. If true than there would be more monsters around than in the past. I chatted with the goddess about what I had found out so far. ObservedI got up and prepared some breakfast before either of the other two woke up. Amala thanked me for the food, she asked us what our plans were for the day. I told her I planned to do some research at the library, and Vivaan just shrugged. Before leaving to start her day at the guild she handed me a map of the city and extra key to her place. She left with a cheerful parting, "See you later". I ask "I'm going to be at the library most of the day, do you want to come with me? Could help me, or could do some reading yourself.", he agreed unamused. I got a small shoulder bag from my pack and put some food and drink in the bag for later. I pack a big piece of parchment and some ink as well. I put a string on the key and put it around my neck, then I look over the map then I hand it to Vivaan and tell him to put it in his pocket in case. We set out there weren't many people on the streets we took to our destination. The library was a huge building, it held all sorts of information, thus including city records but not all of it was available to the public though. If you got the permission from the right people than you could get access to some restricted stuff. Although a lot of it wasn't special or useful in most situations. I looked at books that mention or discussed the Great Incursion, I didn't find any more information on how long it lasted or the catalyst to the event. I did get more details on other aspects such as monsters that were encountered. Some sounded new to me. This search wasn't going the way I hoped, but I did learn a bunch of information on events that happened afterwards. I went over to the librarian, I got greeted, "Hello, hiw can I help you today?", I reply "I'd lile to know if there are any books about things that happened before The Great Incursion?". I got a strange look with a quick reply "No, is there anything else?", I shake my head and thank them for the help I go and find Vivaan. When he spots me approaching he puts the book he was looking at away quickly. I ask what he was reading, he said that it wasn't important. I glance at the shelf he placed the book on they seemed to be guides for various topics. I left the topic there, didn't seem danagerous. I then asked if he wanted to eat some food now, he said yes. We went to a far corner that seemed to have books that rarely get looked at by the dust by them. We sat on the floor, eating and drinking, I mention that I was looking for records pre great incursion. He asked me why I was looking for that information. I tell him that the information could help me find the direction I need to go on my journey. After we finished eating, Vivaan went off probably back to what he was reading before. I decided to browse seeing how other topics were since I was gone. Things seemed not too bad for the most part. I found a map that was created recently. I get the paper out, laying it on top of the map. I then facilitate copying the map onto my blank sheet. The goddess suddenly spoke to me, "Do you feel that senstion?". I answer "Yes I do, someone is watching me, I don't feel strong ill intent though. It might be about my question on history records but I doubt that. Might be the guild, might be curious of me.". The goddess agreed with my assessment and warned me to be prepared and to not die since I'm her first opportunity to regain influence in the world. I noticed Vivaan he rushed over to me with a smile. I ask Vivaan "What has gotten you excited?". He replied enthusiastically, "This here!", he shows me the book, adding "I know this is something you want to look at, take it.". I take the book from him, it was old, the cover show it's age but with a quick flip through I could tell that it had been well maintained with traditional techniques which was the only way to maintain something before magic discovery. I started to read through it. It wasn't a record book of history but it had mentionings of information about events happening when a passage was written. The content was all over the place, I'd consider it like a journal. After a bit of reading I found mention of a rebellion with a some more reading I got some more details, I felt confident that this was the rebellion that I was a part of. I kept reading wanting to know what happened to the rebellion, what I saw made me feel ill. The rebellion won but from what I could piece together, how it was achieved was disgusting and underhanded with no honour at all. There didn't seem like what happened after victory was any better. Thise two things must have been the reason for my betrayal. Moving on, there was mention that after the rebellion there seemed to be a slight increase in monster activity. I continue reading, there was a change in the look of writing also the tone and style was different. I flipped through the rest of the book, to verify my suspicion. The writer change a bunch of times, I was right, it was a inhertiance usually passing to a child. I went back and continued reading where I left off. There were some entries that really got you on the edge of your seat. Though what struck me the most was mwentions of more monsters appearing, it seems The Great Incursion was something that didn't just happen, the weakening of the barrier took a long time. At least this book caught me up with things that the writers noticed or was a part of. Though I was no closer to knowing why the barrier started to weaken. I closes the book the biggest mystery was what happened to the current owner, or was there no one to inherit it. I sigh there isn't anything I could do now about it. I look into Vivaan's eyes and ask "Please tell me where did you find this book?". He answered "It was mostly hidden under a book shelf." I had many other things to do so I decided not to think about how the book got there I put it in my bag for now. I could feel the stare of the person spying on me grow more intense. I give a hug and thank Vivaan for bringing me the book. I say "I'm done here at the library for the day. How about you?", he answered nonchalantly that he was done. As we were leaving I asked the librarian if anyone mentioned they lost a journal recently. I got an answer of no and got demanded of to show the book. I did, got another strannge look and was told to not leave it there. I put the book back into my bag and walked out. I whisper in Vivaan's ear, "Don't ask me about where we're going, just follow me. Nod your head if you understand.", he nodded his head. I went in a direction that would go towards the market square. When reach ed the market square, it was quite busy so I took Vivaan's hand in case someone tried to snatch him in the crowd. After navigating through some people, I then slipped into a small alley. This helped weaken the feel of being watched but not completely. I let go of Vivaan's hand and drew a symbol on my left forearm to mask my presense. There was a downside, this greatly hindered ny ability to use my power vut as long as the situation didn't need magic I'd be perfectly fine. That did the trick, I'd have liked to confort whoever was watching me but I couldn't risk having Vivaan get taken or severly hurt. I took his hand again and proceeded to go back to Amala's place before I'm found again. We got back without any issues. Going inside it looked like Amala was still at work. I went then fell onto the couch, this mark made me feel tired. I look over to see Vivaan looking at me, "What's that look for? Sorry for dragging you around. Someone was watching me and I needed to evade them. Also give me a moment I sit up to give you room to sit down.". He responded with just a question, "Are you okay?". I sat up, then replied "There is no need to worry, I'm fine.". I give Vivaan a close look at the mark on my forearm, "This mark is causing some side effects mostly makes me feel really tired, but I'm not in danger. Watc me carefully I'll show you how one of these marks can be removed." It took some time to remove, it was much more complex to remove from myself than if I removed it from someone else. Vivaan sat down beside me. I ask "so about the training that you started. How is it going, getting familiar on how power flows through your body?", he replied "Yeah, can I go to the next step now? Please". "Well that depends on you. Have you felt any of your own power flowing through you? What does it feel like?". After a couple moments of hesitating he replied, "I do, it feels cold at least compared to yours.", "Well I guess you can go to the next step, this step is important. You will work on controlling the power's flow. Might help if you think visualize your power like water flowing in rivers.". I went on with how concentrating power to one part of your body could be like water going to a pond or lake. I then explained how the folw could be altered such a concentrating power to different points. I instructed him ig he needed any additional help to ask me while I went and prepared some dinner, this should show some more appercuation to Amala for letting us stay here. I went and prepared some food, I used some of the food I had brought with me as ingredients. When I finished cooking Amala appeared. "Perfect timing, I just finished cooking some food for dinner, I hope you don't mind I used some of your stuff. Also I hope you like the taste. Come dit at the table." I also called over Vivasn to the table. Amala sat down then thanked me for cooking especially since today was a busy day for her. She smiled at me and helped herself to some food. She took a bite and blurted out that she really liked the food I prepared. It was nice to hear that my cooking was good. As I finished eating, and was gonna start to clean up Amala told me to wait on that since she had something to tell me. She got a serious look on her face, "You'll get your guild card tomorrow. Although we are giving you a quest that you must accept.". "I assume this is directly from the guild itself, it can't be anyone else. Is this request have to do with my restoration of your book the other day?". She nodded adding, "plus a couple other things". I respond "I see could you give me more details about the request. She went into explaining, on what they wanted me to do. During that I noticed Vivaan wander off to the couch, most likely to practice. When she finished, I thank her for the details. We chatted for a while, one topic was about books until it was about time to sleep. Amala went to her bedroom. I went to the couch, sitting down beside Vivaan. I get his attention to tell him, "No matter how far you get with your training, I plan to start teaching him some basic spells. With a focus on how to use them in a fight." "That sounds like fun!" finishing with a grin. I warned "Don't slack on the training I already given you". I ordered him to go sleep, he relunctly agreed and went off to bed. I was going over the events of the day. The book Vivaan found might have been placed in a way he see and and would deliver it to me. Although I the reason aludes me why someone would do that since no one knows me. The librarian didn't want the book left there which I found strange, usually they do anything to increase their collection. Now the one following me couldn't be from the guild, if it was Amala wouldn't have mentioned a quest. Which left the library but they probably weren't the ones either since they'd lose most interest in me once I left the building. I was getting ready to sleep when I heard a noise it was quiet. I figure out the noise is coming from Amala's room. I gently knock, I open the door when I hear her voice, "Come in". I step inside closing the door behind me. I look at her, she was sitting up on her bed, hugging her legs. Her face looked like she was crying. I go over to her and sit on the side of her bed. I go to wipe the tears from her face, "What has gotten you upset, did something happen?". All I got was a shake of the head. I then ask "Are you upset with me?". An immediate answer, "No!", a few seconds later she continued on. "You haven't done anything wrong. My offer to stay here was purely selfish. It's been a while but I usually lived with someone else. It's nice having someone around. Now tomorrow you'll leave, I'm sorry don't concern yourself about me." I comfort her with a hug, "Well I could continue staying here. You could rent me the spare room. My journey will take me to far off places but when I'm in town I'll stay here." "Are you sure? With the talent that you have you could live anywhere though", "I'm fine with staying here, I am use to camping so I am cotent to stay at most places. How are you feeling?" "A bit better thanks to you". "Well I'll excuse myself so you can get plenty of sleep." She wrapped her arms around me, "Please stay, I use to sleep in the same bed as my sister when either of us were upset." Taking a moment, "If that is what you desire, I don't mind staying, I do owe you for your kindness even if you had ulterior motives it doesn't diminish it.". She pulled me onto her bed, "Thank you!", she didn't let go of me. She must be very lonely for quite a while that even someone she barely knows would do. Guild's PleadI awoke alone in Amala's bed. I thought it could have been a dream, guess this confirms it wasn't. I sat up and looked around the room. I smiled the decorations fit her personality so well. What really drew my attention was the desk to the right of the bed. I got off the bed and went over to it. I was an amazing desk, I felt the surface it was smooth perfect to write on. It also functioned as a vanity. That brought back memories one thing a lot of people I knew complained and whined about putting on make up for a fancy event. Although from those people, men whined more about it. I turned around and that is when I noticed the chest at the foot of the bed. Before I could go over there the door opened, it was Amala. "Oh good you're awake. I just fonished making breakfast come have some.", she smiled. I could tell she seemed a bit disappointed, possibly she wanted to wake me up or see me sleeping some more. "That sounds great." as I walk over to the door. As I walked out of rhe room I noticed Vivaan sitting at the table already eating. Amala went over and sat down. I joined them, I thank Amala for the food then, started to eat. "So Vivaan are you excited for today? Should be eventful day.", he mumbled "Yeah" staying focused on eatting. By the tone he seemed a bit upset but I left it since the day should improve his mood. I face Amala, "So I'd like to do a request other than the guild's today though I'll do some of the guild's request todagmy though. Is that possible?", she answered that it should fine. A bit after eating Amala annvounced she be going to the guild now. After cleaning up, I go to a different room and change back into my rogue outfit. I also put on my rucksack. I look at Vivaan "Are you ready?", he nodded then we left for the guild. We got to the guild similar crowd to a couple days ago. I walked over to Amala, she smiled at me and I smiled back. "So is the one in charge around to discuss this request you mentioned?", "Yeah I was eaiting for you to get in", she got up and added "follow me please". I followed her we went to the top floor of rhe building, then to a door far from the stairs. In that room there was a large desk and behind it an elf. He motioned at a chair infront of the desk, "Come sit, Amala you sit as well please". I did as he ask. Vivaan went and sat on a chair against the wall. I felt at ease when I saw the leader was an elf. My former interactions usually went very well. They longer lifespans caused them to live a more leisurely life, that rubbed some people the wrong way. I was a bit jealous but I was much more curious to know more about elves. I smiled, "It's a pleasure to meet you, you can call me Aurora". "If some information I saw about you is true than it's my pleasure to meet you. My name is Logon.", he pulled a book out of his desk "do you think you could trach me to restore objects?". "I could but do you think you think you can implement what I teach you so quickly?". He smirked "Possible not but I have to try before I know for sure". "Do you know inner power control techniques?". "It's been a long time since I heard someone mentioned it, there are gaps in the knowledge for me". "I see, well the techniqies are fundamental to master magic correctly though", I saw a glimpse of emotion in his eye. "It'd be easier if you tell me what you know and if you can utilize all that knowledge as well", I close my eyes to concentrate. He knew much, though he didn't know about sensing essense of objects which allowed restoration. So in extension didn't know how to sense power of others either but the applications were different. "A major gap of knowledge is you don't know how to sense essence or power that isn't yours." "Could you teach me how to do this?". "Yes but it may take you time to put the knowledge to practice though. The easiest way to first learn to sense essence is to be in contact with the object. Can restore that book for you? It's easier when an object has excess essence.", he slide the book over to me and nodded. I pick up the book, I looked at the cover. The book was about technique itself, it made me laugh if this book wasn't so badly damaged he probably have been able to learn it. Although this edition was not available to the public, only trusted people got to read it, the one widely available was the shorten version. The edition was still not a full copy much closer to it than the one provided to the public. I proceeded to restore the book, then I looked Logon in the eyes "Be careful with who you share the contents of this book with. It's about the technique you want me to teach you", I hand the book back to him. "Now this is tricky to explain in words. To feel the book's essence move your power to the surface of your hand, concentrate on what your power is in contact with. If you know the wavelength or less technical the feel of your power. Now you should try to sense the difference in feeling between your power and the essence. When you send your power into the object chnage the feeling to match of the object. If you need a more technical explanation the information is in the book. Also I'd like to take on a request to exterminate some weak monsters. If there isn't anything else that needs immediate attention I'd like to get going." "There is one other thing I'd like you to look at right now. Amala did you bring the box with you, can you bring it out?". Amala went into one of her pockets and placed a small box infrony of me", I respond "I assume the thing you want me to examine is in the box?". Both of them replied "Yes" at the same time. I opened the box, it was a ring. "So what wrong with this ring?", Amala responded "This is suppose to be a powerful ring. Although anyone that tried to wear and use it started to lose their mind. Most were lucky enough to have minimal exposure and were able to recover easily.". "Is there anyone in a state that seems lile they won't recover from it?", Amala answered "No but there are a few that are in pretty sever condition though", "Okay if possible I'd lile to see them here in the building in a couple days. I'll try to get them back to normal condition". I got a hunch on what was going on with the ring. I went to take the ring out of the box to confirm my hypothesis. Both logan and Amala warned me to be careful. With the ring in my hands I heard a voice in my head, "It's you creator! You're much different than before but that doesn't stop me from recognizing you!". As I thought one of my mistakes, this ring became sentient when I poured way too much power into it. I didn't get a moment to think when the goddesschimed in "I sense a soul from that ring," I thank the goddess for letting me know. That bit of information was unexpected, artificially creating a soul was thought to be impossible. I thought I just brought out the object's personality guess that assumption was wrong. "I hear you've been causing trouble, how did you end up here?", "It's not my fault so filthy vermin tried to wear and use me!", "You don't have to call them that, just say unworthy or something like that. I'm guessing your criteria is if it's me or not. Anyways get on with it how did you end up here.". From the recount of the ring. Someone found the ring quite a bit after my disappearance, they ended up selling it to someone. That person got killed by a monster. It swap hands quite a bit until it got into the hands of an gnome. They were not affected much by the ring's negative effects. I determined from the information that this gnome was one of the heroes during the great incursion and was in their possession a while after the event but eventually given to an adventurer. It got passed around to fellow adventurers until a guild master took notice of what was happening and got the ring so there be no more victims. I felt a hand on my arm, it was Amala "You've been quiet for a while, are you okay?". "Yes I am sorry about that, got lost in thought. Anyways I'll take the ring so it doesn't harm anyone else.", I then go to put on the ring.They both blurted out to not put the ring on. Although I didn't finch and put the ring on. "No worries, there is no problem with this ring. What was happening is it has a mind of it's own and attacks any that it find unworthy, which is not a problem for me." He relunctantly allowed me to keep the ring. The idea was probably to ask me to destroy it. Logan then stated "There isn't anything else that can't wait. Go with Amala she'll finish up your registration and can help you get a requeat that suits your needs. Although I'd like to have a conversation with you at some point.". I nod, "Sure someday soon we can have that conversation", then followed Amala back to the counter. "Before anything else, let me give you both your cards. She reached under the counter and pulled out two guild cards. She handed one to Vivaan and one to me. The card contained the information revealed by the stone but by default it only showed basic information. You could allow someone to see more, usually happened when forming a team with other adventurers. "Here are a few requests that should suit your needs.", Amala handed over 3 requests. I looked at each and decided to pick exterminating some goblins that have been spotted near by. Usually they are easy to subdue and capture. There are times when they can become quite difficult to deal with but in those cases there is someoe leading them. Not dealing with them as soon as possible will give someone a chance to lead them or set up a base that they can defend. "I'll officially take this one.", I hand her the goblin request and place the others on the counter. Amala smiled "Okay, see you later with confirmation". I smile back then proceed to leave. Before getting out of town I felt the same eye that watched me at the library, I glance at Vivaan didn't show any sign that he felt the same feeling. Dire encounterOnce out of the city I went into the forest nearby. I take Vivaan's hand so I know that he is close to make it easier to protect him. "Once we're further in, I start teaching you some spells," we reached the spot where the goblins were spotted at. This place veing a vit more open also made it a good spot to practice. I go to the middle of the opening, then I set up a barrier to prevent sudden interruptions. I step back from Vivaan to make some space between us and I put my hand palm up infront of me. "There are many spells and lots can be done by just imagining it but a reference is needed to do that." I summon a small fireball that just floats above my hand, "this is a good example of a standard fireball." It took a few times and some more guidanve from me but Vivaan was able to manifest a good fireball. He asked me how this needed to come after the other training which didn't seem to do anything here. "Well you can use the techiques I taught you to do some pretty cool thing with a fireball that doesn't happen with just imagining it.". I created several different fireballs as I explained the complexity I put into it. One exploded when it in a tree. A different one curved instead of going straight forward. Vivaan apoligized to me for doubting me. I accept it and told him not to worry it was a valid concern that he had. After some more training shoeing a couple of different spells one of which creates a shield to defend the caster from an attack. Also mentioned that even without a reference that experimenting with imagining things and seeing what manifests was another way to learn a imagination spell or even create one not yet seen before. We began searching for the goblins. Many search spells were not effective against monsters but I had a few that helped, it just took some time to pinpoint their location. When we found them they were by a cave enterance. They must have been searching to set up a base when they were spotted, and decided to use this cave. Luckily they only found it just recently so they hadn't started building which was a good sign that these were scouts, hopefully they didn't report their find yet. I ask Vivaan "I was planning to capture them as target practice for you. Instead do you want to try and eliminate them yourself?". "What if I miss them?", placing a hand on his shoulder "Don't worry about missing or anything like that. If they try to escape I'll handle them at that time.". "Uh... I'll try my best", "That is perfect", I give him a smile. It went well for hus first time using magic in a fight. The first goblin went done in a blaze, and he tried a water based element but that didn't do enough damage. So he finished off the monster with an icicle. I gave him praised for that wonderful performance. We then collected evidence of the kills for the guild. |
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L'amour Parlor all items to 2023 Libertine Lounge all items to 2023 Steamworks Menagerie all items to 2011 Vesnali all items to 2010 Bathhouse Items Purchased Quentin Items Purchased |